It was decided in 2003 that there was a need for some Access 1 Units that were not derived from the Outcomes of Access 2 Units. Centres had indicated that there is a group of candidates who were not capable of achieving the Derived Units but could, with some assistance, achieve Units at Access 1 level. On this basis 11 'Independent' Access 1 Units were introduced in 2003 and others have subsequently been added.
The Independent Access 1 Units are designed principally for candidates who are developing basic skills in a supported learning environment. Candidates are not required to have completed any other Units prior to undertaking these Units.
The Independent Access 1 Units are not derived from the Outcomes of Access 2 Units. They can provide progression from Curriculum Descriptors or the Access 1 Supported Units for some candidates, or can be delivered within an integrated programme comprising a mixture of Units and Curriculum Descriptors according to the needs of the candidate.
On completing an Independent Access 1 Unit, candidates can progress to other Independent Units at Access 1 or to Access 1 Units derived from Access 2 Outcomes. The available Units are: