There has been an important development for those working in Supported Employment. A new unit has been added to the Professional Development Award (PDA) in Supported Employment Practice to better equip Job Coaches in their frontline role.
Why This Update Was Needed
The PDA at SCQF Level 7 was originally designed for individuals working in Supported Employment services.
Since its launch in 2014, however, the qualification had not been refreshed.
SUSE members raised concerns that the PDA was no longer fully reflecting the realities of the role. In particular, they highlighted that:
- It did not sufficiently allow frontline staff to demonstrate their skills in real workplace settings
- A key area of practice, Systematic Instruction, was not included
These gaps meant the qualification was no longer fully aligned with current Supported Employment practice.
Working Together to Make Change
In response to this feedback, SUSE worked closely with its members and SQA (now Qualifications Scotland), to strengthen the award. This collaboration has resulted in the development of a new unit that can now be included as part of the PDA.
What Has Changed
The PDA retains its original structure while offering greater flexibility and relevance.
Mandatory Units
All candidates complete the following four core units:
- Unit 1 Supported Employment Practice: Values and Principles
- Unit 2 Supported Employment Practice: Engaging with Clients
- Unit 3 Supported Employment Practice: Promoting Equality and Diversity in the Workplace
- Unit 4 Supported Employment Practice: Engaging with Employers
Choice of Fifth Unit
Candidates are now able to choose one of the following options for Unit 5:
- Supported Employment Practice: On and Off the Job Support
- Supported Employment Practice: Systematic Instruction (new)
Why Systematic Instruction Matters
The addition of Systematic Instruction is a significant enhancement. This approach plays a central role in effective job coaching, enabling practitioners to support individuals in learning tasks step by step within real work environments, while building independence and confidence.
Looking Ahead
Candidates can still complete the PDA in its original format, but SUSE is encouraging uptake of the new Systematic Instruction unit. This addition better reflects real job coaching practice, strengthens the capabilities of frontline workers and is more likely to lead to more successful and sustained job outcomes.
This update represents an important step in ensuring the PDA remains relevant in Supported Employment practice and practical for Job Coaches.
You can find out more about the PDA on the SQA website. This also includes information on the organisations who deliver the award.
