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Essential Digital Skills Level 1 Qualification (Gateway)

Course Title: Essential Digital Skills Level 1 Qualification (Gateway)

Brief course description:

This nationally recognised qualification is for those who use digital devices but want to become more confident and capable using technology in work and everyday situations. It builds on skills covered at Entry 3 and supports independence in using devices, managing information, communicating online, and solving problems digitally.

The course is practical, task-based and includes an assessment. You will gain a Level 1 qualification from Gateway Qualifications, widely accepted by employers and training providers. 

Objectives:

  • Create, edit and format professional documents using Microsoft Word.
  • Use email confidently to communicate, manage contacts and attach files.
  • Search for, evaluate and compare online information from different sources.
  • Fill in complex online forms, including work, housing and education applications.
  • Use secure websites and manage passwords and personal information safely.
  • Use cloud storage and manage files across different devices and locations.
  • Participate in online meetings and group communications using platforms like Zoom or Teams.
  • Use AI tools (e.g. Copilot, ChatGPT) to support tasks like planning, writing and research.
  • Troubleshoot common digital problems (e.g. frozen apps, connection issues, file compatibility).
  • Understand digital rights and responsibilities, including privacy and online behaviour.

Entry requirements:

You should have completed an Essential Digital Skills Entry 3 course or equivalent and be confident using Word, email and the internet for basic tasks. You must be able to read and follow instructions in English at Level 1.

Equipment required :

Some sessions may take place online. You will be notified in advance if a session is due to take place online. You may join these sessions using any personal device or computer - wifi is also available in the Idea Stores. If you do not have a device available, there may be support available for a loan device.

What courses can I go on to:

  • Digital Skills for Work: Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook (Level 1 or Level 2)
  • Digital Skills for Work: Excel for Data and Organisation (Level 1)
  • Digital Skills for Work: Create and Build a Business through Digital Marketing
  • Level 1 or 2 vocational training or employment preparation
  • Functional Skills English or Maths at Level 1 or above

What examination is there:

You will undertake the Gateway Essential Digital Skills Qualification at Entry 3.

The qualification covers five skill areas:

  1. Using devices and handling information
  2. Creating and editing
  3. Communicating
  4. Transacting
  5. Being safe and responsible online.

The content of the qualifications is based on the National standards for essential digital skills April 2019 (reference: DfE-00082-2019)

You will be given the opportunity to resit the exam once.

How will I know I am making progress:

At the start of the course, your tutor will talk with you about which of your digital skills you need to practise most and help you create an individual learning plan. Throughout the course, you will have a tutorial meeting to discuss your strengths, areas for improvement, and any problems you may have. You will keep a folder with your work, which will help you review your learning outside of class. Your tutor will give you regular feedback on your class work and homework to help you improve. To make progress, you need to attend all your classes and do work outside of class.

Other info:

One of our aims is to help you make progress in work or future studies. We also want to help you participate in your communities and become an active citizen. In our classes, you will develop important skills that employers value and that will help you in everyday life. Here’s what you will learn:

Communication Skills: You will learn to speak and write more clearly and confidently. This includes practising conversations for work, writing emails, and filling out forms.

Decision-Making: You will learn how to make good choices by evaluating different options and thinking critically about situations.

Teamwork: You will learn how to work well with others.

Problem-Solving: You will develop the ability to identify problems and find effective solutions, useful in both work and daily life.

Time Management: You will practice managing your time effectively, including setting goals and meeting deadlines.

By improving these skills, you will increase your chances of finding a job, advancing in your career, and becoming an active member of your community.

Extra support

We can help you if you tell us you have a learning difficulty, disability or other support needs. Please tell us when you enrol or in your first class.