Alternatives to A Levels then University

Getting A Levels and then going to University isn't the only way of getting qualifications. You can progress by instalments mixing in work experience. There is a new system being set up called Qualification and Credit Framework, to make this process easier and more transparent, but basically all qualifications have a credit value and can be used as a substitutes for parts of the next qualification by "accrediation for higher learning". It is a useful way of improving career prospects while getting workplace experience at a manageable pace. It might take twice as long, but getting a degree can still mean having the same problems finding work and fitting in in the workplace, so a slower progression may be beneficial.

The best way to see this is to go to the DirectGov website (www.direct.gov.uk) and select "Education and Learning" then "Qualifications Explained". This sets out the qualification levels and further down the page is a clickable list of qualifications each with an information page. It isn't perfect but the alternatives like OFQUAL are harder to follow.

In conventional terms there are 8 levels from basic to doctorate. University degrees are at levels 4, 5 and 6, 6 being an honours degree. Level 1 is GCSEs graded D to G. Level 2 is GCSEs graded A* to F. Level 3 is A Levels.

The alternative routes include 14-19 diploma, NVQs (national vocational qualifications), HNC/HND (Higher National Certificates and Diplomas) and Foundation Degrees.

I'll try to put in details of these alternatives in subsequent postings.

Parents

longman over 14 years ago

These are on-the-job qualifications at five levels from 1 to 5 (second year at University). They are based around work skills and work knowledge, and often assessed by doing tasks while being assessed (so it depends how comfortable you feel about being watched doing something). You can build up credits and use these to subsitute for parts of a higher qualification by "accreditation of prior learning". This isn't automatic but depends on the entrance requirements for the higher course.
Its a slow way to acquire qualifications, unless you move quickly to the higher levels. But it may be a real boon to those who need to learn in stages, and whose confidence is boosted by each success. And they are often free or paid for by employers. There is a page on this in the DirectGov website

Reply

longman over 14 years ago

These are on-the-job qualifications at five levels from 1 to 5 (second year at University). They are based around work skills and work knowledge, and often assessed by doing tasks while being assessed (so it depends how comfortable you feel about being watched doing something). You can build up credits and use these to subsitute for parts of a higher qualification by "accreditation of prior learning". This isn't automatic but depends on the entrance requirements for the higher course.
Its a slow way to acquire qualifications, unless you move quickly to the higher levels. But it may be a real boon to those who need to learn in stages, and whose confidence is boosted by each success. And they are often free or paid for by employers. There is a page on this in the DirectGov website

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