NPA Dance SCQF level 5

The National Progression Award (NPA) in Dance at SCQF level 5 is an introductory qualification in Dance in which candidates explore choreography and gain an appreciation of dance skills and techniques. It allows candidates to develop knowledge, understanding and skills in choreography and two different styles of dance selected from the following: Classical, Contemporary, Jazz and Alternative. Students will also research and analyse dance styles and practitioners, putting their learning into context.

The award can be delivered in secondary schools, colleges and school/college partnerships, private dance schools or performing arts centres.

From August 2024, any centre planning on offering NPA Dance courses must apply for approval beforehand, as these qualifications are no longer on the auto-approved list.

Centres who have had a break in delivering these qualifications also need to apply for approval.

Requirements for approval

You must show that teachers and lecturers delivering/assessing/verifying Dance have completed two years' successful study of dance to at least HND (SCQF level 8), or have extensive knowledge in dance supported by qualifications through accredited awarding bodies (a minimum of 40 SCQF credit points at level 7 and 40 SCQF points at level 8). It would be beneficial if teaching staff have or are working towards GTC registration in Dance.  For private centres, it would be favourable if staff have or are working towards SQA assessor qualifications.

Qualification structure

Group Award code: GA7E 45 (18 SCQF credit points)
SCQF level: 5

Arrangements Documents - NPA Dance at SCQF level 5 (316 KB)

Structure

The NPA consists of one mandatory Unit and two optional Units. Each Unit can also be delivered be delivered on a free-standing basis.

Mandatory Unit

Dance: Choreography — FH5T 11

Optional Units

Dance: Alternative — FH5V 11
Dance: Classical — FH5W 11
Dance: Contemporary — FH5X 11
Dance: Jazz — FH5Y 11

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How to assess

Assessment is through a variety of methods including performance, candidate logbooks, written analysis and oral presentation.

All Units in the NPA have an assessment support pack (ASP) which provides sample assessment material including an instrument of assessment, specified briefs and checklists. Centres wishing to develop their own assessments should refer to the ASPs to ensure a comparable standard. These ASPs can be downloaded from the NQGA section of SQA's secure site.

Deliver this qualification

Why study this qualification

This NPA may appeal to a wide range of candidates who have an interest in dance and the performing arts, including:

  • school pupils
  • college students
  • students from performing arts centres and private dance schools
  • adult learners/returners

Access

Access to this award is at the discretion of the centre.

Employment and progression

Candidates who achieve the NPA may progress to:

  • other NQ Dance Units
  • Higher Dance Practice
  • HNC/HND in Dance Artists
  • HNC/HND Contemporary Dance Performance
  • HNC/HND Professional Stage Dance

Successful completion of this NPA has the potential to enhance the employability profile of the candidate.

Qualification structure

Group Award code: GA7E 45 (18 SCQF credit points)
SCQF level: 5

Arrangements Documents - NPA Dance at SCQF level 5 (316 KB)

Structure

The NPA consists of one mandatory Unit and two optional Units. Each Unit can also be delivered be delivered on a free-standing basis.

Mandatory Unit

Dance: Choreography — FH5T 11

Optional Units

Dance: Alternative — FH5V 11
Dance: Classical — FH5W 11
Dance: Contemporary — FH5X 11
Dance: Jazz — FH5Y 11

Unit search