Qualifications
There are more qualifications to choose from today than ever before. GCSEs AS Levels, A’Levels, Diplomas, NVQs, BTECs and Degrees are just some of the ones you may have heard about but the list is much longer.
If you’re studying at school or college you may be able to mix and match different types of qualifications to suit your interests and needs. You may take a number of different qualifications as part of an Apprenticeship or Foundation Learning. To find out more about the full range of qualification available nationally follow this link.
There are 9 qualification levels (entry level to level 8). Each level includes different types of qualifications. The higher the level the harder and more rigorous the qualification. You can also use these qualification levels to see how different qualifications compare, for example, A’Levels and Advanced Diplomas are both level 3 qualifications. There’s such a large range of qualifications available that there should be something to suit you whatever your preferred learning style and level you’re ready to study at. To find out more about qualification levels and how qualifications fit together follow this link.
The qualifications that you choose to study now can affect what you can and can’t do later on so it’s important to take the time to do your research.
- Compare and contrast all of the qualifications on offer before you decide what you want to study.
- What are the differences between them and why would one type of qualification suit you better than another?
- Check out the different levels and make sure you meet any entry requirements
- Think about what the qualifications could lead onto. If you have a career idea in mind you should check to see if there are any subjects or qualifications you would need to take
