Key skills (KS) qualifications are available to students across all post-16 routes. KS
qualifications (levels 1-3) comprise communication, application of number and information
technology (IT). Also available at levels 1-3 are the wider key skills units: working with
others, improving own learning and performance and problem solving. Assessment comprises
a portfolio and (except for wider key skills) external tests. They are available and designed to
be taken in tandem with the other qualifications described here.