Guide to BTEC Qualifications

 

What is a BTEC?

 

BTEC stands for 'Business and Technology Education Council', which used to run the award, first introduced in 1984.

 

BTECs are now awarded by the Edexcel exam board and are taken in more than 100 countries at all levels, from pre-GCSE to Degree equivalent.

 

They are vocational and work-related courses, designed to accommodate the needs of employers and allow students to progress to further and higher education.

 

A BTEC takes a practical approach to learning, without missing any of the important theory on the subject.

 

BTECs are extremely reputable, having been around for 25 years now, so rest assured you will be embarking on an excellent course.

 

Why should I take a BTEC?

 

There are a couple of reasons why you may want to choose a BTEC over other qualifications.

 

First, they are recognised by a large number of companies across a wide range of industries.

As well as being developed in partnership with industry representatives so all employer and student needs are met, many professional bodies offer successful BTEC students exemptions for their own accredited qualifications.

 

Second, if you are not fond of taking exams and find the pressure causes you to under-perform, a BTEC will allow you to undertake a number of units for which you wil present evidence, based on real-life work and studies.

 

This means you can demonstrate your skills and knowledge through a practical situation rather than sweating it out in an exam hall.You will be provided with personal guidance and support by your teacher, who will also help you meet deadlines and reach your full potential.

 

How do BTEC qualifications work?

 

There are different sizes of BTEC qualification at each level. Generally:

 

• The smallest is the Award

• Then the Certificate

• And the largest is the Diploma

 

Unit results are graded as Pass, Merit or Distinction.

 

The number of units varies according to the design and focus of each qualification, and all students complete realistic work-based assignments, which are internally assessed.

 

Assessment decisions and quality assurance procedures in each centre are regularly checked by EdExcel.

 

What are the different BTEC levels?

 

BTECs are offered at a number of different levels.

 

We've outlined them below for clarification, and to ensure you choose the correct level to take.

 

Entry – for learners to develop confidence and initial skills for either a broad work sector or everyday lifeIntroductory (Level 1) – a basic introduction to a particular industry sector. They encourage development of personal and work-related skills

 

Nationals (Level 3) - specialist qualifications for students with a clear view of their future career or seeking progression to higher education

 

Foundation Diploma in Art and Design (Level 3) – preparation for entry to higher education to study art and design

 

Higher Nationals (Level 5) – higher education qualifications widely recognised by universities and professional bodies

 

Development and Professional Development qualifications (Levels 4-8) – short courses needed for professional development

 

BTEC Short Courses - available at all levels

 

WorkSkills (Entry 3 - Level 2) – a suite of skills-based employability units.

 

You can read more about the different types of BTEC qualification available at the EdExcel BTEC website.