Vocational Courses Explained

What are the courses about?

These practical courses help you to develop the skills and qualifications you need to progress in
your chosen career. You will be trained by lecturers who have experience of working within the
industry. The content is largely related to the vocational area, although there are generic units of
study included on each course. Several of the courses require a period of work placement.

Course Duration:

• Entry Level: one year, but time allocation varies

• Level 1:

one year, but time allocation varies

• Level 2:

about 14 hours per week for one year

• Level 3:

about 14 hours per week for two years

Most NVQ Level 1 and Level 2 qualifi cations can be achieved within a year. NVQ Level 3
qualifi cations take a minimum of 18 months.

How will you be assessed?

You will be continuously assessed through a range of assignments which could include
presentations, research topics, essays or work-related activities. It is likely that you will be
working on several assignments at once so it is important that you enjoy coursework and are well
organised. Most assignments are marked by your lecturers and externally verified by the awarding
body. However, it is likely that at least one unit of study will be externally assessed. For NVQs
you will be continuously assessed on your work-related competences. You will also be required
to develop a portfolio of evidence which will include assessors' reports, witness statements,
photographs and other evidence that you gather to indicate your proficiency. All students on
vocational courses will also work towards achieving a Key Skills/Functional Skills qualification.

Standard Entry Requirements:

• Entry Level:

No formal entry requirements

• Level 1:

A range of GCSEs at Grade D-G or a pass at Entry Level

• Level 2:

A minimum of four GCSEs at Grade D or E or above or a pass at Level 1

• Level 3:

A minimum of fi ve GCSEs at Grade A*-C, or a pass at Level 2. An ALIS
score of at least 5.0.

These are minimum grades which are expected on all courses. However, some courses make
specifi c requirements in terms of actual subjects required and details are included within the
course information on the following pages.

Progression

Achievement at one level allows natural progression to the next level. However, some subjects
insist that you are assessed at Merit level before progressing from Level 2 to Level 3. If you
achieve a National Certifi cate or National Diploma you can progress onto a degree course, such as
those available at the UCY. You may decide to leave College after achieving at any level to take up
a suitable career in your chosen occupational area.

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