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Alternatives to A Levels then University

longman

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

  • HNCs and HNDs have been around for a long time, and are still successful. An HNC is at Level 4 (equivalent to first year of a degree course). HND is at Level 5 (equivalent to second year on a degree course). They can be used to substitute for first or second year of a degree but it is not automatic, and there might be some additional assessment required to go into third year at university with an HND.

    They can be studied by day release at a college, or by distance learning (self directed study at home) depending on how the course is set up. They are usually in two parts, but take longer than one part each year, maybe around four years to do, as they are part-time. The course fee may be paid for by an employers, if self paid they can usually be paid in instalments.

    The quality varies, which is one reason why they dont automatically key in to university degree levels, but the new Qualification and Credit Framework is supposed to smooth this. A course usually consists of a dozen modules, and there are skills to be demonstrated as well as assessments (coursework often, sometimes exams). They are very practical in content, and may require you to use the workplace as part of the learning and assessment.

    They cover a wide range of subjects but mostly relate to Sector Skills Councils which are strongly guided by employers and what employers want. You can find the sector skills councils on the internet, things like Asset Skills (housing management, estate management) or Construction Skills (building trades).

    They are good if you want to progress in a particular job, but they can be used to get part way into a degree course.

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  • HNCs and HNDs have been around for a long time, and are still successful. An HNC is at Level 4 (equivalent to first year of a degree course). HND is at Level 5 (equivalent to second year on a degree course). They can be used to substitute for first or second year of a degree but it is not automatic, and there might be some additional assessment required to go into third year at university with an HND.

    They can be studied by day release at a college, or by distance learning (self directed study at home) depending on how the course is set up. They are usually in two parts, but take longer than one part each year, maybe around four years to do, as they are part-time. The course fee may be paid for by an employers, if self paid they can usually be paid in instalments.

    The quality varies, which is one reason why they dont automatically key in to university degree levels, but the new Qualification and Credit Framework is supposed to smooth this. A course usually consists of a dozen modules, and there are skills to be demonstrated as well as assessments (coursework often, sometimes exams). They are very practical in content, and may require you to use the workplace as part of the learning and assessment.

    They cover a wide range of subjects but mostly relate to Sector Skills Councils which are strongly guided by employers and what employers want. You can find the sector skills councils on the internet, things like Asset Skills (housing management, estate management) or Construction Skills (building trades).

    They are good if you want to progress in a particular job, but they can be used to get part way into a degree course.

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