Scottish Qualifications Authority
In 2007 the SPA worked with the SQA in revising the framework of the Higher National Certificate and Diploma in Legal Studies which were subsequently accredited by the SQA. The SPA was delighted thereafter to endorse those qualifications as appropriate to those seeking to work in a paralegal role.
We are delighted that our relationship with the SQA continued and lead to further work revising the frameworks of the Professional Development Awards or PDAs in Debt Recovery, Conveyancing and Executries. When revising these awards particular emphasis has been given to the necessary skills required to work in a paralegal role. These have now been validated by the SQA and are on offer from various colleges in Scotland. We continue to work closely with the SQA to revise and develop new PDAs. The current project is working towards validation of PDAs in Commercial Conveyancing, ,Employment Law, Family Law, Criminal Law, Leasing and will drafting. It is hoped that this sterling work will continue and further PDAs will be on offer.
The SQA is an executive non-departmental public body (NDPB) sponsored by the Scottish Government Schools Directorate. It is the national body in Scotland responsible for the development, accreditation, assessment and certification of qualifications other than degrees.
Our relationship with SQA is not a relationship with a commercial provider, but a non departmental body, benefiting from government funding in order to develop new courses which will allow multiple providers to deliver those courses. Involvement in a national project to increase training opportunities which will attract government funding is not an endorsement of those courses over others.
Please check the links on our Training page or with your local college or training provider for further opportunities.