Qualifications
AS and A Levels, BTECs, City and Guilds, entry level qualifications, diplomas, NVQs and apprenticeships... it can all get quite confusing deciding which qualification route to choose post-16...
- Have you thought about which type of qualification is right for you?
- Do you know the difference between academic and vocational routes?
- Do you know which level your current qualifications are?
The following links will help you to find out more (all open in a new window):
General information
There are helpful explanations on different qualifications available from lots of places. Most awarding bodies have information, but Directgov and Ofqual have full explanations of what’s available for you:
However, below are some of the more popular courses and qualifications:
- Apprenticeships - Everything you need to know about apprenticeships and how you can earn while you learn on the job is at the national Apprenticeships website.
- Entry to Employment (e2e) - A programme to help you gain the skills you need to get a job, get into further education, or on to an apprenticeship. You can find out more about e2e at the Connexions Direct website.
- BTECs – These are particular types of work-related qualifications, available in a wide range of subjects. You can find information about BTEC Work Related Qualifications from Edexcel.
- City and Guilds' vocational qualifications (including apprenticeships) are explained at 14-19 Learners.
- AS and A levels - To find out more, see the Official Student Guide, published by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA).
- International Baccalaureate Diploma - This is becoming a popular choice for highly motivated students, where you study a wide range of subjects at a detailed level. More information can be found at the IBO website.
- New 14-19 Diplomas - It's a new qualification that you can do at school or college. There are up to 10 subjects to choose from in September 2009 in different areas of the country. More about the Diploma