School Leavers Course and Career Guide 2017/18

LIFE AFTER
GCSES.
SAY HELLO
& HAVE A GO.
Come along to one
of our taster events.
See page 103
for details.
Qualifications explained
A LEVELS.
What are they?
A Levels tend to be more
academic and a traditional way
of learning.
With us, you’ll also gain work
experience. You have tutorials in
each subject you choose and an
exam at the end of each year.
AS Levels last one year and
A Levels last two years.
Are they for me?
If you like writing essays, sitting
exams and a traditional style of
learning similar to school.
What level are they?
A Levels are level 3.
What do they lead to?
Higher level or Degree
apprenticeships, foundation
degrees, honours degrees or
work.
MAKE
A
CHOICE
THAT’S
RIGHT
FOR
YOU.
VOCATIONAL
STUDY PROGRAMMES.
APPRENTICESHIPS.
What are they?
More practical and hands on,
vocational training will equip
you with skills in a specific sector
or trade. Progress is assessed
through projects, practical work
and contact with employers is
frequent.
Types of vocational courses
include diploma, NVQ, BTEC,
City & Guilds, certificate and
extended diploma.
What are they?
Apprentices usually spend four
days in work and one day at
college. You will be paid a weekly
wage and complete a collection
of qualifications including a
vocational qualification and a
technical certificate relevant to
the industry, as well as English,
maths and ICT.
Are they for me?
If you enjoy practical, hands on
learning and focussing on one
subject area.
*Fast-track to an
apprenticeship
If you can’t find the right
apprenticeship vacancy
or you want to do some
studying first - no problem.
You can start on a vocational
study programme then once
you’re ready and a vacancy
becomes available, we’ll
help you transfer on to an
apprenticeship.
Are they for me?
If you’re ready to get out into the
world of work and earn a wage.
What level are they?
There are three levels; level 1 is
introductory, suitable for those
who got GCSE D/3 grades. Level
2 is intermediate and suitable for
those who got GCSE grades
C/4 and below. Level 3 is
advanced and suitable for those
with GCSE grades A*-C/4-9.
If you go on to study a Level 3
course, this is equivalent to
A Levels.
What level are they?
There are three levels; level
2 or intermediate, level 3 or
advanced and level 4+ or higher
apprenticeships. Level 3 is
equivalent to studying A levels
and level 4+ can be foundation or
honours degree level.
What do they lead to?
University, an apprenticeship
or straight into work.
What do they lead to?
You can progress through the
apprenticeship levels if supported
by your employer. Many level 4+
apprentices are qualified to step
into management positions.
Choosing what to
study after GCSE
exams can be
confusing.
There are so many
different options
available, not only in
terms of where you
can study but also
what you can study.
What course will help
you get to university?
What course will help
you become a nurse,
an engineer or a
plumber?
For help and advice
come along to one of
our Career Choice
Events. See page 100
for details.
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