At AQA’s Unit Award Scheme (UAS) we have found the ideal way to recognise the learning that takes place every day at the farm for our young people. UAS provides certificates for each unit of learning, with clear outcomes and opportunities to gather evidence of skills, knowledge and understanding. AQA

For the young people attending Curly’s Farm—many of whom are working at different levels, some profoundly blind, deaf and autistic or non-verbal and with additional needs —this scheme is especially appropriate. UAS is inclusive and tailored for learners of all abilities, which means we can recognise every achievement, no matter how small or large.

Because the farm environment is very practical—walking animals, pulling sacks of hay and straw, pushing wheelbarrows, working through routines of care and support—our learners are not always best served by traditional academic qualifications. Instead, UAS allows us to map their real-life learning (such as handling tasks, social engagement, communication and personal care) into certificated units. Each time they complete a task or build a skill, they earn recognition, boosting motivation, building confidence, and showing progress in a meaningful way. AQA

In short: we use UAS because it aligns with our ethos of celebrating every step of learning at Curly’s Farm, supports our young people’s real-world engagement, and gives them a recognised pathway of achievement that is flexible, accessible and motivational.