Grading for each level gives articulation between Levels and helps to measure readiness for the next. 'Pass’ indicates the minimum standard at which criteria have been met for the Level.   Higher levels of attainment are based on evidence   at each Level of the increasing degree of independence, skill and control in: selecting, shaping and presenting   information, strategy and ideas; handling equipment and visual aids; monitoring and evaluating response; fluency,   confidence, technique, language skills and sensitivity in sharing communication and supporting others.

At assessment candidates are awarded a level of attainment for each of the four sections. The overall award level is the   aggregate for those four sections.   The individual candidate report gives the level of attainment as a grade for each task and the   aggregate (overall) level. The aggregate level is the one recorded on the certificate.

• ‘Pass’ level in the assessment criteria establishes the minimum standard for success. Merit includes the Pass criteria and Distinction includes all that precedes it
• Section 1, the Talk, is double weighted, carrying 40% of the marks. The three other sections each bear 20% of the marks
• The lowest pass mark is 50%, and other grades are awarded incrementally 
• Percentage marks are not shown on reports or certificates. However, numerical marks underpin and correlate to a range of marking bands. Grading bands are:  
       Unsuccessful: below 50%;  
       Pass: 50%+;   
       Merit: 70%+; 
       Distinction: 90%+.
• For an individual section, but not the aggregated total, an examiner may also award a ‘Nearly’ which is between 40-49%
• Exceptionally, a candidate may be marked Unsuccessful on one section and still achieve an overall pass level through the standard of other sections. No pass is possible where a candidate fails more than one section.

The syllabuses and further marking information for all adult qualifications can be viewed and downloaded by following the links ‘Downloads’ then ‘Syllabuses’ and then under the heading of ‘Adult Learners’.

Similarly fees can be seen by following ‘Downloads’ and clicking on ‘Other Documents’

• As ever at ESB there is always someone to advise and help you with any of our qualifications at or via the Ormskirk office on 01695 573439 or via email admin@esbuk.org

• Alternatively direct to the Adult Learners Consultant, Graham Le-Gall, via graham.le-gall@esb.org