There's a mind-boggling range of courses and qualifications out there. If you're struggling to make sense of them, take a look at this table which shows the qualifications on offer and how they compare to academic qualifications like GCSEs and A levels.
Entry Level Courses
Certificate in Life Skills and Certificate in Skills for Working Life. These courses help students gain qualifications in a supportive environment. Students can then progress onto starter qualifications.
BTEC Introductory Certificates / Diplomas / NVQ level one
A great way of earning a basic qualification or getting the grounding you need to take more advanced courses.
BTEC First Diploma
If you need to beef up your CV, perhaps because your GCSE results were disappointing, these courses are perfect. When you've finished your diploma, it will be the equivalent to four GCSEs. These courses can be used as a foundation for further study, such as the BTEC National Certificates and Diplomas.
BTEC National Certificates, Diplomas and Awards
To study at this level you will need four GCSEs at grade A to C or a BTEC First Diploma. These qualifications are equivalent to A Levels and often include work experience.
NVQs
National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) are very practical courses which are designed to show you can do the job. They allow people to gain qualifications through training and assessment while they are working. NVQs run from level one to level five.
Vocationally Related Qualifications
The College introduced Vocationally Related Qualifications (VRQs) in 2007. These qualifications prepare you for the world of work and progression to higher levels.
Access to Higher Education
Access to Higher Education courses offer a route into higher education. They are the first step on the road to a university degree or a professional qualification. They provide a choice of subject areas in which you can show evidence of recent study which universities look for in mature students. Entry is by interview and you will be assessed on your merits. Courses are available at levels two and three.
Degrees and foundation degrees
Our range of degrees and foundation degrees can be found in our higher education section.
Teaching certificates
These provide higher education qualification routes towards Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) status.