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Vocational qualifications

Vocational qualifications can range from general qualifications where you learn skills relevant to a variety of jobs, to specialist qualifications designed for a particular sector.

They are available from several awarding bodies, such as City and Guilds, Edexcel and OCR, and can be taken at many different sizes and levels.

You can find out more about vocational qualifications at the Qualifications and Curriculum Development Agency's website.

• Find out more about vocational qualifications Opens new window

New vocational qualifications on the Qualifications and Credit Framework

Between now and the end of 2010, new vocational qualifications are being developed and placed on the Qualifications and Credit Framework. These new qualifications will eventually take the place of current vocational qualifications. To find out more, see ‘Vocational qualifications on the Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF)’.

• Vocational qualifications on the Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF)

BTECs and OCR Nationals: what they are

BTEC qualifications and OCR Nationals are particular types of work-related qualifications, available in a wide range of subjects.

You can take one if you are interested in learning more about a particular sector or industry. Many have been designed in collaboration with industry, so they can equip you with the skills and knowledge that employers are looking for.

The qualifications offer a mix of theory and practice, and can also include an element of work experience. They can take the form of (or be part of) a technical certificate, one of the key components of an Apprenticeship.

BTECs and OCR Nationals are being updated and will be available as new vocational qualifications on the Qualifications and Credit Framework by the end of 2010.

• Apprenticeships

What you can study

BTECs and OCR Nationals are available in a wide range of subjects, including:

They are usually studied full-time at college, or sometimes at school (or in collaboration between a school and college). You can also take them part-time at college.

They are mainly taken by learners over 16, although some schools offer them to 14 to 16 year olds, normally in combination with other qualifications such as GCSEs or Key Skills.

Levels and sizes

BTEC qualifications are available at various levels on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF). OCR Nationals are offered at levels 1 to 3. The NQF shows how different types of qualifications compare, in terms of the demands they place on learners.

Within each level, the qualifications are available in a range of sizes, taking different amounts of time to complete.

• Qualifications: what the different levels mean

Entry requirements

Qualifications at different levels can have different entry requirements.

For example, if you want to study for a level 2 qualification, you will generally need GCSEs grades D-G, or a level 1 qualification in a similar subject.

To study a level 3 qualification, you will normally need GCSEs grades A*-C, or a level 2 qualification in a related subject.

Specialist and short courses

BTEC specialist and short courses are also available in various sizes and at different levels on the NQF.

• BTEC specialist and short courses Opens new window

How you are assessed

Generally, you are assessed by your teacher or trainer in your place of study. Depending on the qualification you choose, some assessment may also be done by external examiners.

You will complete a range of assignments, case studies and practical activities, as well as a portfolio of evidence that shows the work you have completed.

Grades

BTEC and OCR Nationals are graded:

UCAS points

If you take a qualification at level 3, you can earn points on the 'UCAS Tariff' for entry into higher education.

Both BTEC and OCR Nationals can earn you equivalent points to AS and A levels. For example, a BTEC National Diploma with overall three merit grades has 240 UCAS points (one A level with A grade has 120 UCAS points).

• The UCAS Tariff Opens new window

Retakes

If you're not happy with how you've done in a particular section of the course (or 'unit'), there are opportunities to improve your performance. Speak to your trainer or teacher. If you are still not satisfied, your teacher can advise you about appealing.

Where they can lead

BTECs or OCR Nationals can lead to a job or further study.

For example, you could progress from a qualification at one level on the NQF to higher levels in the same or related area of study. This could eventually lead to professional qualifications.

You could also use a level 3 qualification as a route into higher education, such as taking an HNC or HND.

• Higher National Certificates and Higher National Diplomas

Help and advice

BTEC qualifications are offered by the Edexcel awarding body; OCR Nationals by the OCR awarding body. Visit their websites to find out about the specific qualifications on offer.

You can also get advice from your school, college, employer or careers adviser.

• BTEC qualifications from Edexcel Opens new window

• Find out more about OCR National qualifications Opens new window

Advice for young people

For advice on learning and qualifications for 13 to 19 year olds, you can also contact Connexions Direct.

The 'It's your choice: options after 16' section has information about options after Year 11.

• Contact Connexions Direct

• It’s your choice: options after 16

Advice for adult learners

Get advice about qualifications for adult learners from the Careers Advice Service.

• Contact the Careers Advice Service

• Adult learning