NVQs and Other Courses
NVQs
NVQs are National Vocational Qualifications for students who wish to develop the skills, knowledge and understanding needed at work. They enable students to become competent in a specific job or craft.
What is an NVQ programme?
NVQ programmes provide a mixture of practical and theoretical studies in realistic working environments to simulate the real world of work. The range and number of NVQ units studied is decided nationally by employers. NVQs are available at levels 1, 2 and 3. Level 1 is a basic introduction, level 2 is a general craft and level 3 is an advanced or more specialised craft level. Some programmes include other specialist qualifications, enrichment activities and work experience.
Why should I study an NVQ?
NVQs are a passport to a job. If you achieve an NVQ you have demonstrated the competence to do the job. This is very attractive to employers because it means that you are already trained and ready to work from day one. Qualified, skilled employees have excellent earning potential. NVQs assess practical competence and underpinning knowledge, unit by unit, throughout your course.
What NVQs are available?
We offer NVQs for a wide range of careers in automobile engineering, construction, hairdressing, beauty therapy, childcare, catering and hospitality, and more.
BTEC Level 2 and 3 qualifications
What are BTEC Level 2 qualifications?
These are one-year, level 2 qualifications for students who would like to take up a career in a broad occupational area. They are vocational courses that provide a mix of essential and optional subjects tailored to suit local employment opportunities and develop knowledge, skills and understanding for employment or progression to a BTEC Level 3 qualification. Students will experience a broad range of study in preparation for a wide range of careers in the vocational area. All programmes include functional skills. Some courses include the opportunity to develop other skills relevant to the occupational area and work experience.
Why should I study a BTEC Level 2 qualification?
These are the established level 2 qualification for students with at least four GCSEs (grades D-G), or satisfactory completion of an appropriate programme at level 1. They are recognised and understood by employers and provide an excellent stepping-stone to BTEC Level 3 qualifications. The courses are assessed by a range of methods including assignments, practical exercises, role plays, projects and case studies. Much of the course content is based on actual work situations that test your ability to solve real problems individually and in a team.
What are BTEC Level 3 qualifications?
These qualifications are for students who wish to prepare for a career in a specific occupational area and/or progress to higher education. They are the same academic level as A Levels. Some programmes contain a short compulsory work experience component where you can gain practical experience of the subjects you are studying. College-based study consists of a combination of theory and practical activities related to the world of work. Much of the course content develops your ability to solve real problems. You will also be assisted to improve your IT, Maths and English through a programme of functional skills. Students will undertake an initial assessment for functional skills to ensure that the level is appropriate and individualised to meet their needs. Subjects are assessed through coursework.
What BTEC Level 3 qualifications are available?
We offer these qualifications for a wide range of careers, including those in performing arts, graphic design, fine arts, media production, public services, construction, engineering, hospitality supervision, IT, music, business, sport, health studies and care.
Why should I study a BTEC Level 3 qualification?
These qualifications will allow you to progress to higher education, e.g. a Foundation degree, or a longer traditional degree, or to employment in the field. The final choice of programme will be determined by your GCSE grades and discussion with the entry tutor.
Note: Not all levels are available in all subjects.
What entry qualifications do I need? Normally, a minimum of four GCSEs at grade C, or equivalent, for a BTEC Level 3 Diploma. Some programmes set additional requirements, full details can be found on individual course pages.
