A Levels and Vocational Courses
What is the difference between A levels and Vocational courses?
One of the main differences between A Levels and vocational courses is the way students learn and are assessed. A Levels are mainly academic and usually involve two years of study with most assessments taking place through final examinations. Vocational courses are more practical and career-focused. They are assessed through a combination of coursework, practical projects, assignments and some exams. These courses help students develop the knowledge and skills needed for specific industries and careers. Vocational qualifications can be delivered through different awarding organisations such as BTEC, City & Guilds, NCFE and others.
Vocational Courses
Level 2 courses are designed for students who want to continue developing their skills after GCSEs and prepare for further study at Level 3 or entry into employment.
Entry requirements vary depending on the course and college, but students are generally expected to have around 3 GCSEs at grade 3 or above.
Level 3 vocational courses are equivalent to A Levels and provide a more advanced level of study in a specific subject area. Entry requirements are similar to A Levels, with most courses requiring at least 5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and Maths. Students are usually assessed through a combination of coursework, practical assessments and examinations.
Progression
Many universities and higher education colleges accept Level 3 vocational qualifications (such as BTEC, City & Guilds, NCFE and T Levels) for entry onto degree and higher education courses.
Entry requirements vary depending on the university, course and the size of the qualification. Some courses may also require specific subjects or additional qualifications such as A Levels.
Students considering university should check the entry requirements for the courses they are interested in, as institutions will outline the qualifications and grades they accept.
Level 3 vocational qualifications can also lead to higher apprenticeships, further study or direct employment in a specific industry.
A levels
Advanced level qualifications (known as A levels) are subject-based qualifications that can lead to university, further study, training, or work. You can normally study three or more A levels over two years. They’re usually assessed by a series of examinations.
In order to study A levels you normally need:
* at least five GCSEs at grades 9 to 5
* at least grade 6 or 7 in the specific subject(s) you want to study
However, the specific requirements needed to study A levels will vary across schools and colleges. It's important to check what you will need with the school or college you are looking to study at.
Who are they for:
* If you're thinking about going to university, most higher education courses require specific A levels or combinations of A levels (or alternative level 3 qualifications).
* If you’re not sure what career or job you want to do, studying a selection of A levels can be a good way of keeping your options open.
Progression
Many people ask 'What can I do with my A levels?', here are some answers:
* Continue on to university– A levels are the most common qualifications studied to get into higher education.
* Keep your options open if you’re unsure about what you want to do in the future.
* Look for employment – they’re valued by employers because they show a good level of education.
* Go on to vocational or work-based qualifications, such as a higher apprenticeship.
For further information on A levels, continuing to university and apprenticeships please follow the following links here:
