Accreditation & Awards

How will students get extra credit / UCAS points?

The award results in a certificate that is equivalent to an AS at A+, and awards 70 UCAS points.
It requires a considerable commitment from the student.

Can all students do this award?

The award will be available on an invite only basis, for those students who can prove they are highly motivated and those identified as Gifted & Talented. Interested students fitting the above criteria should notify their tutor in the first week of term.

What is the aim of the programme?

The programme seeks to improve the personal, employability and effectiveness skills that young people develop through their activities. It aims to enable young people to understand themselves and others better and to become more prepared for making the transition to adult life.

Challenges and activities within the programme will develop the following skills:

• Communication via presentations
• Working with Others
• Improving own Learning and Performance
• Problem Solving
• Discussion
• Research

Is the award accepted by all Universities?

A large number of universities make offers on UCAS points.

The additional 70 points awarded can make all the difference for students who wish to stand out from the crowd.

What happens on the Leadership course?

Selected students will spend 2 days on a training programme conducted in Canterbury. The programme is based around a series of modules that include:

• Leading Self and Others
• Accountability
• Project Management
• Shaping the Future

Who will this be available to?

This will be offered to selected students in positions of leadership such as those on the Student Council.

The training will take place in Canterbury and will be open to invited students from all of our CATS Colleges.

What is the University of the First Age?

The UFA is a national education charity committed to enriching and extending learning for young people aged 5 to 25.

It aims to raise young people's aspirations and achievements by improving confidence and self-belief through exciting and memorable educational experiences.

Young people are supported through the UFA to become role models and leaders who develop and lead learning opportunities for others in their communities.

What is the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award?

Anyone aged between 14 and 25 can take part in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award programme, which leads to a nationally recognised certificate.

Will all students be able to take part?

YES - any CATS College student can take part in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

The programme will be explained during Induction Week and students must opt-in to the programme by raising their interest with their Activities Co-ordinator at this point.

What is covered on the programme?

• Volunteering: undertaking service to individuals or the community. From conservation to youth work to fundraising for your favourite charity or caring for animals.
• Physical: improving in an area of sport, dance or fitness. This could be anything e.g. playing for a local sports club, weekly dance classes, free running, yoga, ultimate flying disc, wheelchair football - almost any dance, sport or fitness activity can count.
• Skills: developing practical and social skills and personal interests. This could be anything from podcasting to painting, DJing to driving, music to making kites. Whatever skill you choose can allow you to develop new talents or perfect existing ones.
• Expedition: planning, training for and completion of an adventurous journey in the UK or abroad, with a team of 4-7 students. This could be anything from a local sailing trip to walking overseas.