National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs)
NVQs and SNVQs are normally taken while you are at work and are a good option if you already have a good idea of what you want to do in your career. They assess the skills that you demonstrate at work and are available at five levels, from level 1 - for routine jobs - to level 5 - for jobs with complex tasks and substantial responsibility. They reflect your ability to carry out skilled tasks and can be taken over a flexible period of time.
Business and Technology Education Council (BTECs)
BTECs are vocational qualifications that prepare students equally for direct entry into employment or for progression to higher education. There are three types of BTEC:
- The BTEC National Award - broadly equivalent to one GCSE A level
- The BTEC National Certificate - broadly equivalent to two GCSE A levels
- The BTEC National Diploma - broadly equivalent to three GCSE A levels
For more information on vocational qualifications, visit the websites on this page