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Learn about the different levels of qualifications, including GCSEs/A-Levels, BTEC/OCR National, apprenticeships/NVQ, and diplomas. Discover how to choose the best type of learning for your individual needs and explore progression routes.
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PATHWAYS Aims: To introduce these terms • Levels • GCSEs/A-Levels • English Baccalaureate • BTEC/OCR National • Apprenticeships/NVQ • Diplomas • Progression Routes
How do I choose? • Information – as much and as impartial as it can be • Identify the best type of learning for you as an individual • Take a whole view of an institution
NATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS FRAMEWORKEntry LevelLevel OneLevel TwoLevel ThreeLevel Four
English Baccalaureate • C Grade in these subjects: • English • Maths • Double Science • Foreign Language • History/Geography
BTEC or OCR NATIONALCan be various levelsMore practical portfolio workNo final examCan be worth 1, 2, 4 GCSEs (Level 2)or 1, 2 A-Levels (Level 3)
ApprenticeshipsNVQ Entry Requirements Practical courses related to work Considerable work experience Preparation for a skills area
DIPLOMAS • LEVEL ONE 51/2 GCSEs at grades D – G • LEVEL TWO 7 GCSEs at grades A* - C • LEVEL THREE 3 ½ A-Levels
A – LevelLevel Three • AS Level in first year • A2 Level in second year • Grades A* - E • Each grade carries UCAS points for University applications • Entry Requirements
What to do? • Know where to find full information (Connexions – Thursday/Friday) • Identify your best way of learning • Is the advice impartial • Make sure the level is suitable/challenging • Look at progression – where does the course lead? • Does the course close any other options?
Impartial Guidance • KUDOS www.cascaid.co.uk • Fast Tomato www.fasttomato.com
Questions from Parents • Is a BTEC as good as a GCSE or A Level? • How does this fit in with GCSEs? • Is it aimed at lower ability students? • Are alternative qualifications understood by universities? • Do the BTECs carry UCAS points?
Recent Developments • Linear GCSEs • Introduction of exam element to BTEC • Affect current Year 9 • A Level review – timing? Keep an eye on developments over the next couple of years