The following information outlines what existing qualification you will need in order to move onto a certain level.

What you’ve got – No formal qualification, but can demonstrate commitment to your chosen course.

Move on to – Entry Level

Course Level - Entry Level Certificate

Joining at Level 1

What you’ve got – Signposts, E2E, Vocational Opportunities and other Entry Level programmes

Move on to – Foundation (Level 1)

Course Level - GCSE grade D, BTEC Introductory Diploma, NVQ Level 1, Foundation Diploma

Joining at Level 2

What you’ve got – GCSEs at grades D to E, NVQ Level 1 Certificate, BTEC Introductory Diploma

Move on to – Intermediate (Level 2)

Course Level - GCSEs at grade A to C, BTEC First Diploma, NVQ Level 2, Higher Diploma

Joining at Level 3

What you’ve got – GCSEs at grades A* to C, BTEC First Diploma, NVQ Level 2

Move on to – Advanced (Level 3)

Course Level - A Level, Access courses*, BTEC National Diploma/Certifcate, NVQ Level 3, Advanced Diploma

Joining at Levels 4 and 5

What you’ve got – A Levels, Access, BTEC National Diploma/Certificate

Move on to – Degree Level (Level 4/5)

Course Level - Foundation Degree, Higher National Diploma, Degree.

*Students who apply for Access courses are usually considered for entry on the basis of their functional skills, life and work experience, rather than on formal qualifications held.

Qualifications Guide

A Levels

An A Level is achieved in two parts; year one comprises the AS Level and this can be a freestanding qualification in its own right. However, to achieve a full A Level, students need to complete a further year of study at A2. For those wishing to progress to university, achievement of two or three full A Levels is generally required, although passes at AS Level do contribute to your total UCAS points.

BTEC Certificates and Diplomas

First Diplomas are broadly equivalent to four/five GCSEs, at grades A to C. National Certificates and Diplomas are broadly equivalent to two or three A Levels and will enable students wishing to progress

NVQs

These are qualifications that are based on the skills and knowledge needed for specific jobs.

Access Course

This is advanced level study that enables adults to achieve an academic standard in order to progess to Higher Education study. Typically, Access qualifications are considered to be equivalent to two A Levels.

14-19 Diplomas
The Diploma is a relatively new qualification for 14-19 year olds which combines classroom learning with some practical hands-on experience. As well as gaining an insight into what work is like from the inside, the Diploma provides an understanding of the different careers that each industry offers and looks to create the skills and qualities you will need to succeed.  There are three levels of Diploma:

• The Foundation Diploma - is a level 1 qualification that is equivalent to 5 GCSEs, grade D-G
• The Higher Diploma - is a level 2 qualification that is equivalent to 7 GCSEs, grade A*-C
• The Advanced Diploma - is a level 3 qualification that is equivalent to 3.5 A Levels, grade A*-E.

Prince’s Trust Team Programme

Unlock your potential with the Prince’s Trust Team Programme. This unique, personal development programme is designed for anyone aged between 16-25. It provides the opportunity for young people from widely different backgrounds to unlock their potential by working together and helping each other discover new confidence. As well as developing your literacy and numeracy skills, you’ll be able to get involved in a range of activities and projects, including:

• a one week residential team-building exercise
• a fundraising challenge
• individual work placements.

Are you up to the challenge? Call 01908 684509 for more information and start dates.

Future Fit

If you're aged 16-17 and are not sure what to do next, but would like to take on a new challenge, Future Fit could be just what you're looking for. This brand new course is a 12-week programme that is delivered over 2.5 days (16 hours) on a Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. You will also receive £30 per week. Throughout the course you will:

• gain employability skills
• boost your confidence and self esteem
• achieve a recognised City & Guilds qualification - Certificate in Employability Skills & Personal Development
• receive support and guidance in planning your next steps.

As a College student, you will also have access to the campus facilities and be given the opportunity to take part in organised trips and visits.

Step it Up

This is an individualised programme for 16-18 year olds who are currently not in education or employment. You will have the opportunity to achieve qualifications in English, Maths and IT, as well as gain employability skills. Other topics includ: art, driving theory, and personal and social development. You will also be able to participate in tasters in other  vocational areas and help out with community volunteer  projects. You will study for a total of 16 hours a week over three days and you will earn £30 a week. Support and career guidance is available for moving on to other courses or employment.

Apprenticeships

These are Level 2 qualifications, which cover an NVQ, Key Skills and a Technical Certificate, which make up the Appenticeships. Advanced Apprenticeships offer Level 3 qualifications and can lead to progression to Level 4 Foundation Degree or Degree level study. For more information on Apprenticeships, please call Apprenticeship Recruitment Team on 01908 684416/684331 and ask for an Apprenticeship pack.