BTEC's & T-Levels

WHAT ARE BTEC's?

BTECs are specialist work-related qualifications. They combine practical learning with subject and theory content. There are over 2,000 BTEC qualifications across 16 sectors – they are available from entry level through to professional qualifications at level 7 (equivalent to postgraduate study).

BTECs are designed for young people interested in a particular sector or industry but who are not yet sure what job they’d like to do.

You could study a BTEC at Level 2 or 3, either alongside academic qualifications or as part of a wider programme (such as an apprenticeship). You can also study a BTEC as a standalone course.

WHAT ARE T-LEVELS?

The T-level is a new 2-year qualification which is being phased in as an alternative to vocational qualifications such as BTEC's over the next few years. T-levels combine classroom learning with “on-the-job” training through an industry placement. Like A-levels, they lead to UCAS points which can be taken into account in higher-education applications.

Both North Kent College and Mid-Kent College offer T-Level's with the list of subjects increasing each year. Entry requirements, are grade 4+ in English and maths and usually three other subjects.

North Kent College Courses include - Construction, Engineering, Manufacturing, Education and Childcare, Healthcare and Administration for Legal & Professional

Mid Kent College Courses include - Construction, Childcare, Health and Science

WHAT IS A T-LEVEL QUALIFICATION LIKE AND HOW DIFFERENT IS IT TO AN APPRENTICESHIP?

On a T-level, students spend about 315 hours (45 days) in the workplace, or just under a fifth of the academic year. Apprentices on the other hand spend about 80% of their time in the workplace. T-level placements could be undertaken in a block or on day release, or a mixture of the two. Although students are normally placed with one employer, placements can be shared across more than one employer.

Unlike apprenticeships, T-levels focus on an industry area rather than a specific job. This makes them ideal for students who are interested in a particular field of work but unsure what career path they’d like to pursue within it.

T-levels provide UCAS points, helping students qualify for a university place. However, some universities may continue to require A-levels as entry requirement so students should check whether T-levels are accepted at their preferred universities before applying. T-levels are also a stepping stone straight into a particular profession or to greater specialisation through an advanced, higher or degree apprenticeship.