Understanding Qualifications
There are many different qualifications available offered by schools, colleges, training providers and universities. We understand that this can be really confusing for employers. However, the differences are designed to enable everyone to achieve qualifications at different levels whatever their preferred style of learning. Qualifications can now be achieved through practical projects, course work, written exams and work based learning.
Use the page links below to find out more:
GCSEs
AS and A Levels
BTEC Diplomas
New Diplomas
NVQs - National Vocational Qualifications
How do the qualifications compare with each other?
GCSEs
These are “traditional” qualifications offered by all schools in a wide range of subjects. They are assessed by a mix of coursework and written exams. Before the end of the 1980s, you would have known this level of qualification as ‘O’ Levels.
Back to Top
AS and A levels
These are 1-2 year programmes where Year One leads to completion of AS (half an A level) and Year 2 leads to A2 (full A level). Young people would usually choose 3 or 4 subjects and their study tends to be theoretical and mainly exam based or with a mix of exams and coursework. In order to qualify to take an A level programme young people would normally have been required to attain five GCSEs at Grades C and above, often including Maths & English. Young people may also be required to have B grades in some subjects that they wish to continue studying at a higher level.
Back to Top
BTEC Diplomas
These are “vocational” qualifications designed to offer a more practical way of studying subjects related to broad areas of work. They are available in a range of subjects from Art & Design to Health and Social Care. These Diplomas are assessed through modules of coursework completed over one or two years.
Back to Top
New Diplomas
Diplomas are a combination of theoretical and practical study related to an area of employment. Diplomas currently offered in Medway include ICT, Engineering, Society, Health & Development, Creative & Media, Construction & the Built Environment, Environment and Land based Industries and Business, Administration & Finance
Back to Top
National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs)
These are vocational qualifications achieved through study of practical work based tasks often studied as part of an apprenticeship or work based learning. Assessment can be through observation of work activities and/or completion of a portfolio of evidence of skills at work.
Back to Top
How do these qualifications compare?
The table below of the National Qualifications Framework shows how each of these qualifications compares with others at different levels.
| Level 1: | Level 2: | Level 3: | Levels 4 to 8: |
| Provides basic knowledge and skills e.g. number and word for use in every day life and/or able to apply learning or perform job role with supervision – includes:
|
Provides a broader understanding of a subject and/or ability to perform tasks or job with some supervision – includes:
|
Provides more in depth knowledge – appropriate for entry to university or working as a supervisor – includes:
|
High level specialist study appropriate for individuals moving into management, training or professions
|
Back to Top
