Course types for under 19s

• GCSEs
  Level 2
  Course length: 1-2 years

  GCSEs are usually the main qualification taken by 14 to 16-year-olds, but are also available to anyone of any age.

• T Levels
  Level 3
  Course length: 2 years

  Equivalent to three A Levels, T Levels are a full-time qualification that cam be taken after GCSEs and include a 45-day placement with a reputable employer within a chosen industry.

• A Levels
  Level 3
  Course length: 2 years

  A Levels are academic qualifications taken after GCSEs. Each A Level focuses on a specific subject area, students normally take two to five depending on career goals. At West Notts, we offer 15 different A Level subjects.

• BTEC
  Entry Level - Level 3
  Course length: 1 - 2 years

  Work-related learning aimed at preparing you for further study in a specific industry.

  NVQ
  Level 1 - Level 3
  Course length: 1 - 2 years

  A qualification that measures your knowledge and ability in a specific subject area or job role – suitable for those already in employment.

• Apprenticeships
  Level 2 - Level 7

  Work and study at the same time. You’ll learn practical skills at work and may also go to college on day release. You’ll also earn a weekly wage. Apprenticeships come in three levels (intermediate, advanced and higher), each designed to further develop your skills and knowledge in a specific area.

Qualification levels explained

There are many qualifications in the UK, at various levels. Find out which level you are at and where you could go next.

• Entry Level

  Options for students who need support to progress with their learning.

• Level 1
  • GCSE grades 1-3 (D-G)
  • NVQ
  • Traineeships
  • Various diplomas and certificates
• Level 2
  • GCSE grades 4-9 (A*-C)
  • NVQ
  • Intermediate apprenticeship
  • Various diplomas and certificates
• Level 3
  • A Level
  • T Level
  • Advanced apprenticeship
  • Extended Diploma
  • Access to HE Diploma
  • NVQ
  • Various diplomas and certificates
• Level 4
  • First year at university
  • Higher National Certificate (HNC)
  • NVQ
  • Higher apprenticeship
  • Various professional diplomas and certificates
• Level 5
  • Second year at university
  • Foundation Degree
  • Higher National Diploma (HND)
  • NVQ
  • Degree apprenticeship
  • Various professional diplomas and certificates
• Level 6
  • Bachelor's Degree
  • Graduate Certificate
  • Graduation Diploma
  • NVQ
  • Degree apprenticeship
  • Various professional diplomas and certificates
• Level 7
  • Master's Degree
  • Postgraduate Diploma
  • Postgraduate Certificate
  • Degree apprenticeship
  • Various professional diplomas and certificates
• Level 8
  • Doctorates
  • Advanced professional diplomas and certificates

Learn more

• Why choose West Notts?
• Study programmes
• How to apply
• Getting to college
• Financial support for under 19s
• Student support & services
• Information for parents.