Level 2
- GCSE (grades A*-C) – Higher tier of academic GCSE. Usually assessed by coursework and external tests.
- GCSE in vocational subjects (grades A*-C) – usually a 2-year course with a career-based approach. Can be taken alongside academic GCSEs. Equivalent to 2 GCSEs (grades A*-C).
- Diploma Level 2 – New Diplomas are gradually being introduced from Sept 2008. They combine theory, practical learning and work experience and aim to give you a broad understanding of one or more of 14 areas of work, e.g. engineering, creative and media, business etc.
- BTEC First Certificate or Diploma – Learn by projects and assignments based on real-life workplace demands. Can lead to BTEC National or A level study. May require some GCSEs or relevant work experience.
- NVQ Level 2 - Work-based qualification. Entry requirements vary. You usually need to be in a job or apprenticeship. An apprenticeship leads to an NVQ Level 2, Key skills and technical certificates.
Level 3
Generally you need 4-5 GCSEs (grade A*-C) or the equivalent level 2 qualifications to study for level 3 qualifications. Advanced level courses all consist of units, usually 3 or 6. If completed successfully they provide entry to higher education or employment.
- AS/A2 Levels – The AS level consists of 2 units. You can then go on to study another 2 units to make it up to the full A2 level. Generally people take up to 5 AS subjects in the first year and then specialise in 3 or more in their second year.
- Diploma Level 3 – New Diplomas are gradually being introduced from Sept 2008. They combine theory, practical learning and work experience and aim to give you a broad understanding of one or more of 14 areas of work, e.g. engineering, creative and media, business etc.
- BTEC National Diploma – Offered in a range of practical vocational subjects. Emphasis on coursework and work experience. There are three awards: Award (6 units), Certificate (12 units), and Diploma (18 units). The Diploma is equivalent to 3 A2 levels.
- IB (International Baccalaureate) – The IB is a 2-year academic course that if passed provides entry to higher education in the UK and internationally.
- NVQ Level 3 - Work-based qualification equivalent to an A2 level but specific to a particular career. An Advanced Apprenticeship leads to an NVQ Level 3 plus Key Skills and technical certificates.
Experience: choosing where and what to study
Before I finished year 11 I had to decide whether to stay on at school for 6th Form or go to college. I looked at myself first, and asked what was I good at, and how I could go about using that talent. Because I could sing the college courses at Oxford and Abingdon College for Performing Arts looked very good, and suited my needs for singing, dancing and acting, even though it would be good to stay at school and do music. So I discussed it with the music teacher who said Abingdon would be better. From doing this course I can go on to maybe get a scholarship, or to musical theatre. – Rebecca, 16, Didcot
