Understanding your Options

Which kind of course is right for you depends on what you plan to do next, whether that's getting your ideal job or going to university (in this country or abroad). It's important to know about the different course levels:

Level 3 Qualifications:

AS and A Level    

Two-year courses like GCSEs but at a higher level in an exciting choice of subjects, which you may not have been offered in school. Pick four or five that you’re good at or enjoy most. You’re assessed by a mixture of course work and exams at the end of each year. With A Levels you can progress to university or into employment. See our AS and A Levels

BTEC Extended Diploma (formerly BTEC National Diploma)

A full-time course of study over two years. A great course if you have done well at GCSE but want something more practical to suit your career choice. You’re assessed on coursework; there are NO exams. The extended Diploma is worth three A Levels, and you can take an A Level alongside as well. With a BTEC Extended Diploma you can progress to university or into employment. See our BTEC Extended Diplomas

BTEC Subsidiary Diploma (formerly BTEC National Award)

A full-time course of study over two years. This is a coursework based qualification, there are NO exams and there are several course subjects to select, so you can keep your options open. On successful completion of the two year course, you achieve the full BTEC Subsidiary Diploma which is equivalent to 1 A level and related UCAS points . This builds upon the BTEC Certificate you will have achieved at the end of your first year which was equivalent to an AS level and associated UCAS points.

 You can select a few Subsidiary Diplomas or you can take A Levels as well. See our BTEC Subsidiary Diplomas

Level 2 Qualification:

BTEC Level 2 Diploma (formerly BTEC First Diploma) 

Full-time study courses for one year in a practical subject with some written work. You work in groups, supported by specialist learning assistants. The Level 2 Diploma is worth 4 GCSEs (grade C). You could progress to Level 3 courses or go on to employment with this qualification. See our BTEC Level 2 Diplomas

Level 1, Entry, Pre-Entry (Towards Independence):

Foundation Learning 

This specialist course of learning is full time and lasts for one year or more depending on your requirements. It will help you improve your skills so you can go on to a job or to more education or training. You need few or no qualifications for Entry Level. For Level 1 you need GCSEs (grade E to G). See our GCSEs and Foundation Learning courses