All the different qualifications you can get can be confusing. This table is based on the National Qualifications Framework.
Academic and vocational routes differ but approximate comparisons can be made. In the table below, qualifications within the same level indicate that they are broadly comparable in their general level of outcome.
|
|
Academic
Qualifications |
The
Diploma |
Vocational
Qualifications |
Apprenticeships |
|
Level
3 |
AS/A Level
International Baccalaureate (IB)
Access to HE
Art Foundation |
Advanced
Diploma
Progression
Diploma |
BTEC National
OCR National
C&G Advanced
NVQ 3
|
Advanced
Apprenticeships |
|
Level
2 |
GCSEs A* - C |
Higher
Diploma |
BTEC First
NVQ 2 |
Young
Apprenticeships |
|
Level
1 |
GCSE D - G |
Foundation
Diploma
|
BTEC Intro Cert
C&G Foundation
NVQ 1 |
E2E |
|
Entry
Level |
Entry Level Qualifications
Certificate in Life Skills |
Here is a brief description of some of the qualifications you might want to consider.
NVQs are work-based qualifications that prove competency in a job. They are available for a broad range of jobs. They are awarded at five levels, from early entry to professional skill level, for example level 2 is the equivalent of 5 GCSEs grade A-C.
VRQs are Vocational Related Qualifications. These are flexible programmes that lead to a wider range of qualifications, such as construction and business.
Vocational A-levels (AVCE) are available in areas such as information technology, business, engineering, travel and tourism.
International Baccalaureate is an A level equivalent qualification with grades indicated by points. It is mainly a theoretical programme, in which six subjects are taken. It is designed for students who have strength in a wide range of subjects. For more information visit Direct.gov
Edexcel / BTEC are qualifications with the emphasis on vocational skills.
Edexcel / BTEC First Diplomas are equivalent to 5 GCSEs grade A-C.
Edexcel / BTEC Higher National Diploma (HNDs) and Higher National Certificates (HNCs)
CLAIT provides hands-on computer training at three levels.
ECDL European Computer Driving License is another hands-on computer qualification.
A-levels consist of AS-levels which is the first year and A2 levels which is the second year of a qualification in a specific subject.
Apprenticeships are a way for employees to continue learning whilst working and gain a nationally valued qualification. There are over 100 Apprenticeship training programmes designed with the help of employers.
Most of the training takes place in the workplace with assessment and additional training being provided through an approved training provider. Connexions Kent & Medway can put you in touch with a local training provider with experience of delivering training for your industry.
HND/Cs (Higher National Diplomas/ Certificates)
Qualifications awarded by BTEC (the Business and Technology Education Council) are related to fields of employment, such as construction or art and design. Courses combine theory and practice, usually with part-time study leading to a Certificate and full-time study to a Diploma.
Other vocational qualifications
Around 100 awarding bodies offer qualifications accredited by QCA (Qualifications and Curriculum Authority), which means they meet the necessary quality standards.
Degrees
Degrees are higher education qualifications, available in academic or vocational subjects. Many are recognised by professional bodies as accreditation towards their own qualifications.
Professional and managerial qualifications
Professional organisations have their own examinations leading to membership.
To find out more about qualifications, visit the website of the *Qualifications and Curriculum Authority.