Last updated: 14 November 2023
Next review: 14 November 2024
Technical and vocational qualifications
Vocational courses provide qualifications related to a specific job e.g. carpenter, chef or beautician. The courses are practical and involve learning in real situations. Examples include: Cambridge Technical, some Pearson BTEC, City and Guilds Diploma, AQA Technical, VTCT Diploma and many others.
Duration
Course dependent.
Start date
September. Some colleges have January start dates for entry (level 1) courses.
Assessment
Can include coursework, skills tests, and exams
Level of study
1 to 7
Where will I study
Further education colleges, sixth form colleges, school sixth forms, and independent training providers.
Entry requirements
Set by each school and college.
Work experience
Course dependent.
Awards UCAS points
Some (course and awarding organisation dependent).
What it leads to
Apprenticeship, work, and college
Find out more
For course levels: visit the GOV.UK website.
How to apply
Go to the individual school and college websites. Search for courses on the National Careers service website.