Essential Digital Skills - Level 1
Summary
This course is designed for learners who want to build confidence, develop practical skills, and prepare for further study, training, or employment. The Pearson Level 1 Essential Skills Qualification (ESQ) provides a supportive and flexible learning programme that focuses on real-life skills needed for everyday situations, the workplace, and progression to higher-level courses.
Entry Requirements
GCSE grades D–G (or 3–1) in maths and English, or
Entry level 3 in maths and English
There will also be an initial assessment to confirm you can work towards Level 1 outcomes
There is an expectation of appropriate behaviour, good attendance, a commitment to learning, and a willingness to engage with English and maths as part of the study programme.
Where can this subject lead?
Career progression
The skills you develop are highly transferable and valued by employers across many sectors. Completing this course can open the door to a wide range of opportunities. Many students progress onto ourLevel Level 2 vocational course.
For learners not yet ready for employment or apprenticeships, this course provides an excellent stepping stone, helping you build confidence, resilience and a positive attitude to learning. It also supports progression onto our Level 2 programme.
Key information
Qualification obtained
Essential Digital SkillsWhat will I learn?
You will study a range of units designed to develop your digital skills and prepare you for level 2. The course is divided into two sections:
Part A - Essential Digital Skills
- Using devices and handling information - using hardware and software, searching and navigating.
- Creating and editing - using apps to enter and edit information, capturing/saving multimedia.
- Communicating - sending and receiving communications.
- Transactions - e-commerce and buying online
- Being safe and responsible online - being safe online, protecting your data, etc.
Part B - Digital Launchpad
Once you have secured the Essential Digital Skills Qualification, you will progress onto the Digital Launchpad. This programme builds on your core digital knowledge, helping you to develop the confidence, skills and understanding needed to successfully progress onto Level 2 study.
Example units include:
- Introduction to Computer Hardware & Devices
- Introduction to Networking & Cyber Security
- Introduction to databases
- Introduction to ICT Problem Solving
- Introduction to software and game programming
Please note: units and content may change in line with awarding body updates.
Essential skills: English and Maths
English and maths are a condition of funding for students who have not yet achieved a GCSE grade 4 (or equivalent). As part of your programme, we will assess your starting point and review any prior qualifications to ensure you are placed on the most appropriate next step in English and maths. Support is built into your timetable to help you make progress and build confidence in these essential skills.
How will I learn?
You will learn through a variety of engaging and supportive methods designed to suit different learning styles. Lessons are interactive and practical, allowing you to apply your skills in real-life contexts. You will receive regular feedback and support from experienced tutors who help you track your progress and set achievable goals.
How will I be assessed?
Assessment for this qualification is internally assessed and quality assured in line with Pearson requirements. There are no formal written exams. Instead, assessment focuses on practical evidence of learning.
You may be assessed through:
- Completed tasks and activities
- Workbooks or portfolios of evidence
- Observations of practical or group work
- Tutor questioning and discussions
- Short written or digital pieces of work
Assessment is ongoing throughout the course, allowing you to demonstrate progress over time. Tutors provide clear guidance on assessment requirements and support you to meet them successfully.