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
  • Hi again Sam,

    I did this in two parts because for some reason I get cut off when writing and pausing too much.

    I'm personally shocked by the dictaphone situation, but not surprised. I know the debate in depth. The answer is, if you need a dictaphone you should be able to use it provided you undertake only to use it for your own benefit. That should overcome the objections of others present. The content of the recorded discussions has to be for your own private use only. Alternatively, if you have an allowance for disability support during your education you could get a note taker to attend classes.

    But you've partly explained the problem. You are in Scotland. I was born and grew up and was educated in Scotland, with half my ancestry Scottish. Best education in the world as long as you're normal, play rugby and go to Sunday School/Scottish Schoolboys Club or whatever. There does seem to be some difficulty in Scotland doing the disability equality thing properly.

    I have looked up my old school's prospectus to see what they have on disability. Three years ago it said they could provide extra tuition for dyslexia and special needs. Now there's not even that on the website.

    Perhaps NAS could do a special issue on Scotland, or at least an article in Communication. I'd like to feel proud of being a Scot. I seem to be spending too much time apologising for it.

Reply
  • Hi again Sam,

    I did this in two parts because for some reason I get cut off when writing and pausing too much.

    I'm personally shocked by the dictaphone situation, but not surprised. I know the debate in depth. The answer is, if you need a dictaphone you should be able to use it provided you undertake only to use it for your own benefit. That should overcome the objections of others present. The content of the recorded discussions has to be for your own private use only. Alternatively, if you have an allowance for disability support during your education you could get a note taker to attend classes.

    But you've partly explained the problem. You are in Scotland. I was born and grew up and was educated in Scotland, with half my ancestry Scottish. Best education in the world as long as you're normal, play rugby and go to Sunday School/Scottish Schoolboys Club or whatever. There does seem to be some difficulty in Scotland doing the disability equality thing properly.

    I have looked up my old school's prospectus to see what they have on disability. Three years ago it said they could provide extra tuition for dyslexia and special needs. Now there's not even that on the website.

    Perhaps NAS could do a special issue on Scotland, or at least an article in Communication. I'd like to feel proud of being a Scot. I seem to be spending too much time apologising for it.

Children
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