After they finish school, your child will have the choice of whether to study A levels or BTECS. If they’ve already studied them prior at level 2, they follow the same format and are largely coursework based. If this is something completely new, this guide summarises what they are and answers some frequently asked questions.
What Are the Different Levels?
If you’re unfamiliar with BTECs, they are vocational courses that provide relevant training and qualifications for specific jobs. As highlighted earlier, they are less exam heavy although many have now changed to include an exam element. The different levels that they can be studied at are as follows:
- BTEC Firsts – Level 2 (These are each equivalent to a GCSE).
- BTEC National diplomas – Level 3 (equivalent to three A-levels).
- BTEC Apprenticeships – Levels 2 to 5 (higher level apprenticeships).
Can You Go to University with BTEC Qualifications?
Yes. More and more universities are recognising the importance of practical work and accepting vocational courses when reviewing course applications.
How Many BTECs Can You Study at Level 3?
This all depends on the type of BTEC qualification studied. A standard extended BTEC level 3 diploma consists of 18 units and is equivalent to three A-levels. This means that there is the potential to study an AS level in conjunction or something of that equivalent. However, it is not essential as full-time students must take up 3 A levels (or their equivalent).
Are There Many Options to Choose From?
There’s a broad and vast range of courses available. Below are a few examples:
- Art
- Business Studies
- Childcare
- Construction
- Engineering
- Health and Social Care
- IT
- Media
- Performing Arts
- Public services
- Science
- Sport
- Tourism
We hope that this guide to BTEC qualifications helped. For more posts just like this, take a look at our blog archive.