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Vocational Courses

BTECs / T Levels / NVQ / CACHE

  • Vocational courses are typically designed around a specific industry / occupation.
  • Courses usually range from Level 1 and go up to Level 3 and higher.
  • Vocational courses are an opportunity to specialise early in a subject that interests you.
  • It often means studying one main subject (some schools and colleges allow you to blend academic and vocational options).
  • If you have not achieved Grade 4 in GCSE Maths and English, you will be required to complete these qualifications alongside your main course...

 

T Levels Explained

T Levels are a brand new, 2-year qualification that will give you a head start towards the future you want.

They bring classroom learning and an extended industry placement together on a course designed with businesses and employers.

The courses are available at selected colleges, schools and other providers across England. Providers delivering T Levels and the T Level foundation year course

T Levels: welcome to the next level - YouTube

T Levels are ideal if you have finished your GCSEs and want the knowledge and experience to get straight into employment, an apprenticeship or higher education.

You’ll spend 80% of your time in the classroom and 20% on a 45-day placement with an employer to give you the knowledge and skills companies look for.

 

Why Choose a T Level
T Levels take 2 years of full-time study and are equivalent to 3 A Levels. They are a new choice after your GCSEs. Check out the five great reasons for choosing a T Level – and get ready to move to the next level.

1. Created with businesses
T Levels have been designed with leading businesses and employers to give you the knowledge and skills you need.

More than 200 businesses – including Fujitsu and Skanska – have been involved so you can be confident your T Level will move you to the next level.

2. Get ahead in your careers
T Levels give you the chance to learn what a real career is like while you continue your studies.

Your industry placement will last for at least 45 days – when and how you complete it depends on the T Level, college and employer.

3. Qualifications that count
When you pass your T Level, you will get a nationally recognised certificate showing the overall grade you achieved - pass, merit, distinction or distinction*. It will also give details of what you learned on the course to help you move into skilled employment or a higher apprenticeship.

4. Awarded UCAS points
Your T Level will be worth UCAS points – a T Level Distinction is worth the same as 3 A Levels at A* – and will be recognised by universities and other education providers so you can choose to continue studying if you wish.

5. Learn your way
T Levels involve more classroom study than apprenticeships, which means you can experience an industry while you continue your studies.

 

Like A Levels, there are no tuition fees to study a T Level if you start before you are 19. Schools and colleges set their own entry requirements, so check their website or contact them direct to find out more.

The T Level foundation year is a preparatory programme for level 2 students who plan to progress onto a T Level.

Find out more information about T Levels from the Department of Education and Find T Levels in your area.