Choosing which qualification to study after GCSE, or as a returner, can be difficult. The chart of comparative qualifications shown below shows the equivalent level of each qualification. All our qualifications are nationally recognised.

National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs)
These are work-related qualifications based on standards approved by particular lead bodies. They relate to specific jobs and are designed to assess your skills whilst you perform a range of work-related tasks. NVQs are made up of units which can be built up over a period of time. The NVQ is offered at five levels, starting at level one. These levels depend on how complicated the work is and the amount of responsibility involved. NVQs can be taken as full-time, part-time, or as part of the Training for Success/New Deal programmes.

BTEC First Certificates and Diplomas
These Level 2 qualifications are suitable for those who have attained at least a grade D at GCSE wishing to gain a GCSE equivalent qualification at grade C or above.  Successful completion of this one-year programme can provide entry to National Certificate/Diploma/AS level programmes at Level 3.

BTEC National Award
This Level 3 award is equivalent to a 6-unit, one A-level equivalent qualification. A National Award may be combined with a National Certificate qualification or A-Levels to provide an 18-unit qualification for progression to Higher Education programmes.

BTEC National Certificate
This Level 3 certificate is equivalent to a 12-unit, 2-A level equivalent qualification. A National Certificate may be combined with an A-Level to provide an 18-unit qualification for progression to Higher Education programmes.

BTEC National Diploma
This two-year 18-unit Level 3 qualification is a 3 A-Level equivalent course that extends and deepens knowledge in a specialist vocational area. The qualification prepares learners for employment in the relevant career sector and will be suitable for 16/19-year-olds who may wish to enter this area of work. Progression from this qualification may well be into employment or to Degrees, Foundation Degrees or HND’s at South Eastern Regional College or at other Higher Education institutions.

GCE ‘A’-Levels in Applied subjects
Applied A-Level is the alternative qualification for the best features of AVCEs which they replaced. This 12-unit qualification has been designed to provide a broad introduction to a vocational area and help you develop and apply knowledge in a variety of work-related situations.
The qualification adopts the GCE structure in that it is made up of two halves, an AS Level and an A-Level, with each part contributing 50% of the total Advanced GCE course. Students successfully completing the qualification will be well equipped to progress to degrees, Foundation degrees or HNDs at South Eastern Regional College or at other Higher Education institutions.

AS/A2 Levels
These are academic courses offering an established route to Higher Education. A-Levels are available either over two years full-time, one-year intensive repeat programmes or, through part-time evening study. Normally the full award takes two years to complete. At the end of year one you will have attained an AS qualification. In year two, referred to as an A2, a further three units can be attained. This gives a total of six units’ equivalent to one GCE Advanced level qualification. For students who cannot attend a College campus on a regular basis, a range of GCE A-Level/GCSE subjects is available part-time.

Foundation Degrees
The Foundation Degree is a Level 5 programme which helps you develop the skills that employers and the Government have identified as essential for the 21st century workplace. Foundation Degrees are developed along with employers and Universities to ensure that you gain the relevant skills for today’s workplace and that they help to provide you with a pathway for lifelong learning. On successful completion you may progress to a variety of degree courses or directly to employment. Foundation degrees incorporate a period of work-based learning in a relevant industry, often for up to six months. See our Higher Education guide for the full listing of Foundation Degree programmes at South Eastern Regional College.

BTEC Higher National Diploma (HNDs)
These Level 5 qualifications are deigned to equip you with the knowledge, understanding and skills required for success in current or future employment. With national recognition, they allow for progression directly into employment or to a degree course (often with advanced standing). See our Higher Education guide for the full listing of HND programmes at South Eastern Regional College.

Key/Essential Skills
Key/Essential Skills are provided by the College in line with government policy. These skills are important for successful completion of your educational qualifications, work and in most aspects of life. Students will benefit from these as they provide extra qualifications which attract UCAS points and also look good on your Curriculum Vitae (CV). Areas covered include Communication, Application of Number, Information Technology, Problem Solving, Working with Others and Improving own Learning and Performance. These skills lay the foundation for success in adult and working life.

CHART OF COMPARATIVE QUALIFICATIONS 

The National Qualifications Framework (NQF)