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

Hi Sam,
There certainly is a change in approach to disability of late, due to financial cutbacks. The original drive of disability equality has fizzled out, hardly anyone has been prosecuted, and there is now a tendancy to withdraw the generous hand on the basis we'll take the one in a thousand risk of there being any trouble. After all, the disabled are very forgiving and content to put up with their lot.....
I have reiterated on these pages (and wish NAS would take note) that the response to learning needs is the supposed "level playing field" principle and handy misinterpretations of the social model. The idea is you put certain support provisions in place, which supposedly put the disabled individual back on ann "equal" footing and then it is just up to them to try to study. Individual differences in learning technique are just part of life's little tapestry. We've done the basics. You can have a dictaphone but only if everyone else is happy for yoiu to use it. We'll give you handouts on sepia coloured paper, and we've put some very basic modifying functions on the course and module websites. End of disability provision.
The biggest evil now is this idea of an "over-arching" equality policy. Disability is catered for by the same provisions that are made for race equality and pregnant mothers. There isn't the money for individual needs to be addressed.
That, at any rate, is the gist of my usual rant

Reply

longman over 14 years ago

Hi Sam,
There certainly is a change in approach to disability of late, due to financial cutbacks. The original drive of disability equality has fizzled out, hardly anyone has been prosecuted, and there is now a tendancy to withdraw the generous hand on the basis we'll take the one in a thousand risk of there being any trouble. After all, the disabled are very forgiving and content to put up with their lot.....
I have reiterated on these pages (and wish NAS would take note) that the response to learning needs is the supposed "level playing field" principle and handy misinterpretations of the social model. The idea is you put certain support provisions in place, which supposedly put the disabled individual back on ann "equal" footing and then it is just up to them to try to study. Individual differences in learning technique are just part of life's little tapestry. We've done the basics. You can have a dictaphone but only if everyone else is happy for yoiu to use it. We'll give you handouts on sepia coloured paper, and we've put some very basic modifying functions on the course and module websites. End of disability provision.
The biggest evil now is this idea of an "over-arching" equality policy. Disability is catered for by the same provisions that are made for race equality and pregnant mothers. There isn't the money for individual needs to be addressed.
That, at any rate, is the gist of my usual rant

Children

No Data