As the challenges facing learners continue to evolve, preparing them for life beyond the classroom has never been more important. In response, ASDAN is launching a refreshed suite of Personal Effectiveness Qualifications (PEQs) – designed to support the development of the personal, social and employability skills that underpin long-term success.
Rooted in over 20 years of experience and co-created with educators, the updated PEQs reflect ASDAN’s commitment to inclusive, skills-based learning that empowers all young people to realise their full potential.
Personal growth, real-world relevance
Personal effectiveness is more than a desirable trait, it’s a foundation for lifelong learning. It reflects a learner’s ability to understand themselves, manage their learning, relate well to others and contribute positively to society.
The refreshed PEQs turn this into a structured, accredited qualification that promotes self-awareness, self-regulation and resilience – not just in theory, but through practical, real-life learning experiences.
Learners build skills by engaging in tasks that reflect the challenges and responsibilities of real life – such as leading group work, supporting peers, and contributing to school or community initiatives. These experiences build confidence, strengthen communication, and help learners make meaningful connections between what they do now and who they aspire to be.
“Personal effectiveness isn’t just about academic outcomes,” explains Kerrie King, ASDAN’s thematic lead. “It’s about fostering self-confidence, adaptability and the ability to work effectively with others. Education should be rooted in relevance, preparing learners to meet challenges and unlock their potential.”
Designed for flexibility, driven by impact
The PEQ suite, offered at Entry Level 3 and Levels 1 and 2, is designed to be flexible, accessible and impactful. Each learner follows a personalised pathway aligned to their interests and ambitions, across three broad themes:
- Personal and social development
- Careers and work-related learning
- Citizenship and community engagement
The qualifications are adaptable to the needs of a wide range of settings – including alternative provision, specialist settings, mainstream schools and post-16 providers.
Activities are hands-on and purposeful, allowing learners to develop communication, leadership, problem-solving and time management skills. At the same time, the PEQs support whole-school priorities, contributing to Ofsted’s personal development and behaviour and attitudes judgements.
Evidence-based and practice-informed
The updated qualifications have been developed in close consultation with educators, learners and sector experts. ASDAN also drew on the latest educational research, particularly around the impact of social and emotional learning on learner progress and wellbeing.
Each unit incorporates opportunities for structured reflection and metacognition, encouraging learners to build a growth mindset and develop strategies to overcome challenges.
By reflecting on how they manage responsibilities, build confidence and contribute to their communities, learners strengthen the skills that help them succeed not just in education, but in all areas of life. These are not optional extras – they are the essential building blocks of progress and wellbeing.
Support every step of the way
ASDAN is committed to supporting educators as they bring the refreshed PEQs to life. The qualifications are backed by a robust programme of professional development, practical guidance and exemplar resources.
From onboarding to moderation, the ASDAN team is on hand to ensure confident and effective delivery.
“We know that educators are under pressure,” says Kerrie King.
“That’s why we’ve designed the PEQs and support materials to be straightforward to implement, while still delivering meaningful outcomes for learners.”
A qualification for equity and opportunity
With a renewed focus on values, voice, and visibility, ASDAN’s refreshed PEQs reflect the belief that learning should be a tool for personal and social transformation.
By recognising and nurturing strengths that lie beyond the exam hall, these qualifications offer a pathway to future success – whether in further education, training, employment or community life.
For learners of all backgrounds and starting points, the PEQs help build the skills, confidence and sense of purpose needed to move forward in an ever-changing world.
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