Vocational Courses

Vocational courses are education and training programs that focus on specific industries or professions. These courses are designed to equip students with the practical skills and knowledge needed for specific careers, emphasizing hands-on learning. Typically, your post-16 vocational options consist of BTECs, NVQs or other Level 3 diplomas.

If you want to go to university

NVQs are recognized by employers and industries as evidence of an individual's competence and ability to perform specific tasks. However, they might not be as universally recognized by universities for entry into higher education as A-Levels or BTEC Level 3. 

If you're not sure what you want to do

While NVQs and other industry specific courses can be a great choice for exploration, it is essential for individuals to carefully research and choose the right level and subject area that aligns with their interests. Additionally, individuals should consider their long-term goals and whether they may want to pursue further education or enter the workforce directly after completing their NVQ.  BTECs offer a greater flexibility but will not often lead to a trade qualification, which means you will not necessarily be able to enter paid skilled work, as you would if you completed a NVQ. 

For example: Amani has a strong interest in working with young children but isn't sure what job she would like to do.  She could opt to study BTEC Health and Social Care, alongside other BTECs at a sixth form college. This would give her the flexibility to pursue other interests later on, but would mean she may need to complete further specific training to gain employment. 

However, if she opted to study an NVQ in Childcare, on completion she would be able to work in various jobs associated with that industry such as a Nursery Nurse.  However, with this qualification, she may face challeneges pursuing a university degree or higher level jobs in other industries without further training.