Qualifications Explained

A Level qualifications are all about taking your knowledge and understanding from your GCSEs and developing to an advanced theoretical and analytical level. You have the option to study three different A Level subjects over the course of two years. As a nationally and internationally recognised qualification, A Levels will help you progress to universities or employment both in the UK and abroad.

• Level: 3
• Duration: 2 years

You can read more about A Levels here.

T Levels are a new two-year qualification that are equivalent to three A Levels. The qualification is a combination of classroom theory and practical learning (80%), alongside a work placement with an employer (20%). T Levels are fully recognised by universities and carry UCAS points, enabling you to progress to university, higher apprenticeships or directly into employment.

• Level: 3
• Duration: 2 years

You can read more about T Levels here.

Level 3 Diploma
The Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma is a full time two-year course of study which will develop specialist knowledge, practical skills and understanding within a vocational area and will give you a qualification that is the equivalent to three A Levels. The Extended Diploma is fully recognised by universities and carries UCAS points, enabling you to progress to university or directly into employment.

Level 2 Certificate/Diploma
The Level 2 BTEC Extended Certificate/Diplomas are equal to three/four GCSEs at grade 4-9 when completed successfully. This one-year course is offered in a range of vocational areas and combines both practical and theoretical study.

• Level: 3

The Level 3 Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma is a full time two-year course of study which will develop specialist knowledge, practical skills and understanding within a vocational area. This Extended Diploma is fully recognised by universities and carries UCAS points, enabling you to progress to university or directly into employment.

• Level: 3
• Duration: 2 years

BTEC Subsidiary Diplomas are advanced-level courses, each equivalent to one A Level and taken over two years. They provide the opportunity for vocational-related academic study in a range of subjects. After successful completion of the first year, you will be awarded a BTEC Certificate before going on to complete the full Subsidiary Diploma in your second year.

• Level: 3
• Duration: 2 years

Cambridge Technical Introductory Diplomas are advanced-level courses, each equivalent to one full A Level and taken over two years. There are no external examinations; instead, your progress is continually assessed through assignments and coursework. After successful completion of the first year, you will be awarded a Cambridge Technical Certificate before going on to complete the full Introductory Diploma in your second year.

• Level: 3
• Duration: 2 years

The Level 2 Cambridge Technical Diploma/Extended Certificates are equal to two/three GCSEs at grades 4-9 when completed successfully. This one-year course combines both practical and theoretical study in a range of vocational areas.

• Level: 2
• Duration: 1 year

The Level 3 UAL Extended Diploma is a full-time two-year course of study which will develop specialist knowledge, practical skills, and understanding within the creative industries vocational area. Students will be awarded the UAL Diploma at the end of their first year of study, then continue onto the Extended Diploma in their second year. This qualification is equivalent to three A Levels and is recognised by universities.

• Level: 3
• Duration: 2 years