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QUA LIFIC ATIO NS EXPL AINE D MID CHES HIRE COL LEGE – SCH OOL LEAV ERS’ PRO SPEC TUS 2014 ENTR Y Qualifications Explained Unravel the mysteries of educational jargon. Entry Level Entry Level courses are for those who have gained no formal qualifications at school, need further career guidance and would like to try a range of options with extra support. BTEC Diplomas (Level 1) These Level 1 qualifications give an introduction to a vocational programme and a strong basis for successful study and progression opportunities. BTEC Diploma in Foundation Studies in Art & Design This post-18, but pre-degree course is offered in Art & Design only. It provides the opportunity to develop a portfolio of artwork prior to taking a Degree course in art. New for September 2014 The Technical Baccalaureate – An alternative route to A Levels From September 2014, the Government is introducing a new type of qualification that will offer learners aged 16-19 years the highest level of technical training in any form of education.  This will consist of an approved Level 3 Core Qualification, a Level 3 Maths qualification and an extended project which will include industry relevant experience. Therefore, the learner is most likely to have achieved a grade C or above in GCSE maths. National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) NVQs are work-related qualifications, based upon standards set by industry. These concentrate on the knowledge and skills necessary to be effective in specific work situations. BTEC Diplomas (Level 2) These Level 2 qualifications provide a strong basis to progress into junior level employment or Further Education. Learning and Assessment Learning takes place through practical work, projects, assignments and tutorials. Coursework is assessed continuously using a variety of methods including practical tasks and observation, written work, online assessments and written examinations. Assessment will vary for each course and you can discuss this with the tutor when you visit college. Who is it aimed at? The Technical Baccalaureate Measure will be aimed at ambitious, talented students who wish to pursue a technical career. It will offer learners the opportunity to be stretched and demonstrate their personal best. Learners who are high achievers and have a very clear idea of the technical career they wish to pursue should consider this pathway as an alternative to the more traditional A-Level route. The qualifications included in the Technical Baccalaureate Measure will be most suited to learners interested in occupations that require significant theory and knowledge acquisition, such as: * Lab technicians, IT technicians, various engineering technician roles, construction professionals) * Service technicians (e.g. retail and hospitality management, personal services, junior accounting positions) * Creative technicians (e.g. digital media, other media, creative industries, sport industry, material/ textiles, design) QUALIFICATIONS EXPLAINED BTEC Extended Diplomas (Equivalent to 3 GCE A Levels) Vocationally Related Qualifications (VRQs) QUALIFICATIONS EXPLAINED VRQs are widely recognised professional qualifications, enabling learners to improve their knowledge, skills and understanding of specific areas of employment. These Level 3 qualifications provide specialised skills, are recognised by employers and are accepted entry qualifications for Higher Education courses at university. 18 Look out for this symbol to help you recognise the Level 3 courses. Mid Cheshire College will be offering the Technical Baccalaureate in September 2014 in selected curriculum areas, to be announced January 2014. If you are interested in studying this qualification please contact our Admissions Team directly on 01606 720503 or email [email protected] 19