What Course Level?

Please see the table below which indicates the right level for you and the progression routes you can take once you have completed the course.

Current Situation

Level to consider

What you’ll study

Where next?

No formal qualifications

Entry Level

  • Qualification in your chosen vocational subject
  • Level 1 qualification
  • Further training

Few or no formal qualifications, GCSEs E or below

Level 1

  • Level 1 Diploma
  • NVQ Level 1
  • Foundation Learning Qualification
  • Level 2 course
  • Apprenticeship

4 GCSEs (Grade D or above)

Level 2

  • Level 2 Diploma
  • NVQ Level 2
  • Intermediate Apprenticeship
  • Level 3 course
  • Apprenticeship
  • Employment

5 GCSEs (Grade D or above

Level 3

  • Extended Diploma
  • NVQ Level 3
  • Advanced Apprenticeship
  • Access Diploma
  • University
  • Higher Education
  • Higher Apprenticeship
  • Employment

Level 3 qualification or A Levels.

Relevant work experience

Level 4 (higher education)

  • Foundation Degree
  • Higher Apprenticeship
  • Diploma
  • University
  • Further training
  • Employment

Level 3 or above qualifications.

Relevant work experience

Level 5 and above

  • HNC/HND
  • Certificate
  • Award
  • University
  • Further training
  • Employment