Vocational and Technical Qualifications (or VTQs) offer a more practical approach to gain qualifications – often as an alternative to traditional A-Level academic courses when you finish secondary school.

They’re a great choice if you have a particular career goal in mind or prefer learning-through-doing. If you’re considering VTQs, you can choose from:
  • Vocational Subjects (such as BTECs and OCR Cambridge Nationals) that relate to a range of employment areas such as business, engineering, IT and health and social care.
  • Vocational Courses (such as T-Levels or NVQs) which lead to specific jobs such as accounting, construction, marketing or childcare.
  • Apprenticeships that offer training in the workplace – completing full-time employment whilst studying for an associated qualification.
Vocational Qualifications have been designed in partnership with employers to help you develop the skills needed for certain job roles and industries. You can study vocational qualifications from Level 1 (entry level), Level 2 (equivalent to GCSEs), Level 3 (equivalent to A-Levels), Level 4 and 5 (equivalent to a foundation degree), up to Level 6 (equivalent to an honours degree).

Find out more about studying vocational qualifications, like BTECs and NVQs, by browsing the articles below or use the links to explore other qualifications you can choose at 16+.

A-Levels and T-Levels  Apprenticeships
BTECs or NVQs? Common Questions and Differences

BTECs or NVQs? Common Questions and Differences

As students embark on their educational journeys, the diversity of qualifications available can be both exciting and overwhelming. Two popular options, BTECs (Business and Technology Education Council) and NVQs (National Vocational Qualifications), often spark questions about their differences, popularity, employer preferences, and potential pathways. In this article, we’ll explore these questions to help you make…

A Comprehensive Guide to BTECs

A Comprehensive Guide to BTECs

As you navigate the diverse landscape of educational qualifications, BTECs stand out as a valuable and versatile option. From practical skills to specialized knowledge, BTECs offer a unique approach to learning that caters to a variety of career pathways. In this guide to BTECs, we’ll explore what BTECs are, the subjects you can choose, their…

Studying Non-Traditional Career Routes and Support for Alternative Provision

Studying Non-Traditional Career Routes and Support for Alternative Provision

Considering studying non-traditional career routes? Perhaps the obvious choices like A-Levels or Apprenticeships aren’t right for you? Or you need additional support adapting to your next steps after secondary? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. If you’re undecided, anxious, confused or wondering how colleges or training providers could adapt their offer to suit your needs, we…

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