Overview
This article explains the steps to take if the qualification you are looking for is not listed in QN Title when searching on the KS3/4 Matching page. It details how to check if the qualification is unapproved by the DfE, therefore, not counting towards school performance measures. Where you find the KS3/4 qualification is unapproved, instructions are provided showing you how to match it in Sisra Analytics.
Prerequisites
Ensure that the KS3/4 Matching page is open, ready to edit:
- Select DATA.
- Select KS3/4 and Cohort.
- Select Grades.
- Select Matching.
- Select Edit.
Instructions
Check if your qualification is unapproved
Check whether or not the qualification you are trying to match is approved or not using the DfE’s Qualifications and Discount Codes spreadsheet (see Sisra Analytics: KS4 - DfE's Key Stage 4 Qualifications, discount codes and point scores).
Your qualification must be listed for the specific year you are reporting on; otherwise, it won't count towards the headline figures for that cohort. For example, if you’re working with 24/25 Leavers, ensure that the qualification is listed in the spreadsheet's 2025 tab.
If the qualification is listed, contact us.
Match an unapproved qualification
Where your qualification is unapproved and the QN code does not bring back a qualification to select:
- In Qual Title, enter Unapproved.
- Select the appropriate option, based on the type of qualification, for example, for an unapproved short course Religious Studies qualification, enter Unapproved Religious Studies and select the appropriate unapproved qualification, allowing for comparisons to be made within the reports for the same Sisra subject area.
- Select an appropriate EAP (this is a mandatory requirement even when setting up unapproved qualifications).
- Optionally, select a Faculty.
- Select Save Changes.
Outcome
The qualification has been successfully matched and when reports are published, it will be available when analysing student performance (such as qualification and class analysis) despite not contribute towards headline figures.
Related information
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