A/AS levels, BTECs, Diplomas, IB, or NVQs .....
Whatever qualifications you're thinking about taking, check out the facts here.
General qualifications
These are qualifications that allow you to study particular subjects in greater depth.
A / AS levels - Advanced level qualifications
A levels are two year courses. In the first year, you take AS (Advanced Subsidiary) and in the second year progress to A2. Students tend to study 3 - 4 AS levels in their first year and then decide which to continue to a full A level in their second year.
There are over 80 subjects available at A level from Art to Physics, Business to Leisure. You can continue with subjects you've already studied or take something new.
A levels are assessed by exams, although in some subjects there will be practical assessments too.
For many students, A levels are a route into higher education. There are, however, other options, such as starting an Apprenticeship, training for qualifications through work or even studying part-time for a degree or diploma.
To start an A level course, you usually need 5/6 GCSEs at grade C or above, for some courses you may be asked to achieve at least a B at GCSE.
The International Baccalaureate (IB)
The IB is a Europe wide qualification which is equivalent to up to 5 A levels. The IB is designed for students who are strong across all curriculum subjects; you study your own language, a foreign language, maths or computing, a science subject, the arts and a humanities subject. It is generally used for entry to higher education.
To start an IB you usually need 5/6 GCSEs at grade C or above, for some courses you may be asked to achieve at least a B at GCSE.
Cambridge Pre U
The Cambridge Pre U is a new qualification. It is an academic qualification designed to prepare students with the skills and knowledge for entry to university. The course is linear with final exams at the end of the second year.
Applied courses
These courses are designed for people who want to find out more about a particular area of work and begin to develop skills and knowledge useful for a range of careers in this area.
The Diploma
Diplomas combine theoretical study with practical learning. They allow students to develop skills and knowledge related to their chosen area of study, as well as continue to develop their English, maths and IT skills too.
Diplomas are available in different subjects including Creative and Media, Construction and the Built Environment, IT, Hair and Beauty Studies and many more.
Available at different levels, a Diploma can be taken alongside other qualifications such as A levels or GCSEs. An Advanced Diploma is broadly equivalent to 3.5 A levels.
BTEC and OCR Nationals
These courses are available in many different subject areas for example, Art & Design, Horticulture, Business, Engineering, Hospitality and Catering and many more.
There are courses available at different levels, so where you start will depend on the grades you get at GCSE.
Courses are usually made up of different units or modules. Assessment is through a mixture of coursework, assignments and practical activities.
Work related courses
If you are sure of the career you wish to follow, you may be able to take a course to learn the skills you need. Courses may be available full-time at college or through an Apprenticeship or training at work.
Courses are available at different levels and come in different sizes.
These courses may be called National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs).
Foundation Learning
Foundation Learning is a personalised programme of learning that is designed to help young people to develop their skills and prepare for work, training or a course at college. These programmes combine learning about an area of work or subject, developing personal and social skills and improving skills in English, Math and ICT.
Foundation Learning programmes are made up of units which can lead to qualifications at Entry Level or Level 1.
Foundation Learning programmes may be offered by schools, colleges or work-based learning providers.
