BTEC Qualification
What is a BTEC?
BTECs are vocational qualifications designed to accommodate the needs of employers and allow progression to university. They provide a more practical, real-world approach to learning alongside a key theoretical background. Obtaining A Levels is not the only route open to you if you wish to go on to university or obtain a successful career in a huge range of industries and jobs.
BTEC Levels Explained
- Level 1 BTEC Introductory - An entry point to an industry sector to encourage the development of personal and work-related skills alongside studying core subjects including Maths, English and ICT.
- Level 2 BTEC Firsts - These are designed for those who are capable of achieving A*– C grade GCSEs, but wish to focus on a work-related vocational qualification or work area.
- Level 3 BTEC Nationals - These are designed as specialist qualifications for students who have a clear view of their future career or are seeking progression to higher education. They are equivalent to A levels and are highly valued by universities and employers alike.
Because BTEC courses involve real work experience and work-based projects, the skills you learn are the ones employers want which will give you a an advantage when applying for jobs. These include:
- Creative problem solving
- Planning and scheduling your work
- Working by yourself and as a team
- Applying complex theories to work-related challenges
- Handling difficult work-related situations
- Managing other people
- Multi-tasking different projects.
Want To Go On To University?
Weymouth College has an in–house advisor who can help and offer advice in completing your UCAS application whilst studying at the College. Only BTEC National Awards, Certificates, Diplomas and the BTEC Foundation Diploma in Art and Design are eligible for UCAS tariff points.
The number of UCAS points depends on the overall grade achieved. Details of the UCAS points for both GCE A Levels and BTEC Nationals can be seen here: www.edexcel.org.uk/ucas
