School Leavers / Further Education (16+)

NVQs

NVQs are National Vocational Qualifications for students who wish to develop the skills, knowledge and understanding needed at work. They enable students to become competent in a specific job or craft. They are assessed through multi-choice and short answer questions.

What is an NVQ programme?

NVQ programmes provide a mixture of practical and theoretical studies in realistic working environments to simulate the real world of work. The range and number of NVQ units studied is decided nationally by employers. NVQs are available at levels 1, 2 and 3. Level 1 is a basic introduction, level 2 is a general craft and level 3 is an advanced or more specialised craft level. Some programmes include other specialist qualifications, enrichment activities and work experience.

Why should I study an NVQ?

NVQs are a passport to a job. If you achieve an NVQ you have demonstrated the competence to do the job. This is very attractive to employers because it means that you are already trained and ready to work from day one.

Qualified, skilled employees have excellent earning potential. NVQs assess practical competence and underpinning knowledge, unit by unit, throughout your course.

What NVQs are available?

We offer NVQs for a wide range of careers in automobile engineering, construction, hairdressing, beauty therapy, childcare, catering and hospitality, and more.

VRQs

VRQs are vocationally related qualifications for students who wish to prepare for a career in a specific vocational area. They are offered at levels 1, 2 and 3 and allow students to develop and practise skills required for employment and/or career progression in their chosen sector. College-based study consists of a combination of theory and practical activities related to the world of work.

You will be assisted to improve your IT, numeracy and communication skills through a programme of Functional Skills. VRQs will favour those candidates who prefer a more structured approach to learning and the associated assessment process.

BTEC facts and statistics

• In 2015, 1 in 4 students who got into university in the UK did so with a BTEC (UCAS report – Progression Pathways Jan 2016)
• Almost 79% of BTEC students go on to receive a First or Second class degree (The outcomes associated with the BTEC route of degree level acquisition, London Economics 2013)
• 90% of BTEC students are employed full time after graduating (UCAS report – Progression Pathways Jan 2016)
• 74% of businesses prefer recruits to hold a mix of academic and vocational qualifications or value them equally (Inspiring Growth: Pearson/Skills CBI Skills survey 2015)
• Learners who hold BTEC qualifications have high rates of progression between learning levels compared to other types of vocational qualification (Department for Business, Innovation and Skills – October 2015).

Read more: http://qualifications.pearson.com/en/about-us/qualification-brands/btec/progress-with-btec.html

What is a BTEC qualification?

BTEC Diplomas are work related vocational qualifications suitable for a wide range of students, designed to deliver the skills required for different career paths. The courses are a mix of theory and practical, and enable progression to a range of next steps including:

• Employment
• Apprenticeship
• Further/higher study programme
• University or other Higher Education

They provide a practical, real-world approach to learning and an alternative route to traditional GCSEs and A Levels. BTEC qualifications were established over 25 years ago and are recognised by universities, employers and professional bodies across the United Kingdom and in over 100 countries worldwide.

BTEC Diplomas Equivalences

BTECs are equivalent to GCSEs and A Levels, BTEC graduates can go on to university or start their career straight away. The table below shows the progression routes available to all BTEC students together with their more traditional equivalents.

What are BTEC Level 2 qualifications?

These are one year, level 2 qualifications for students who would like to take up a career in a broad occupational area. They are vocational courses that provide a mix of essential and optional subjects tailored to suit local employment opportunities and develop knowledge, skills and understanding fo employment or progression to a BTEC Level 3 qualification. Students will experience a broad range of study in preparation for a wide range of careers in the vocational area. All programmes include Functional Skills. Some courses include the opportunity to develop other skills relevant to the occupational area and work experience.

Who should study a BTEC Level 2 qualification?

For students with at least four GCSEs (grades D – G), or satisfactory completion of an appropriate programme at level 1, these programmes are recognised and understood by employers and provide an excellent stepping stone to BTEC Level 3 qualifications. The courses are assessed by a range of methods including assignments, practical exercises, role plays, projects and case studies. Much of the course content is based on actual work situations that test the student’s ability to solve real problems individually and in a team.

Who should study a BTEC Level 3 qualification?

These qualifications are for students with a minimum of four/five* GCSEs (grades A*-C), or satisfactory completion of an appropriate level 2 entry route, who wish to prepare for a career in a specific occupational area and/or progress to higher education. College-based study consists of a combination of theory and practical activities related to the world of work. Much of the course content develops your ability to solve real problems. Subjects are mainly assessed through coursework.
*dependent on course area

What is a BTEC Subsidiary Diploma?

A BTEC Subsidiary Diploma is a one year level 3 programme, worth 60 credits and is equivalent to one A Level. This may be beneficial for students who wish to study a shorter level 3 programme. In many areas, there is an opportunity to progress to a second year and complete a larger Diploma.

What is a BTEC Diploma/Extended Diploma?

A BTEC Diploma is a two year programme, worth 120 credits and is equivalent to 2 A Levels. An Extended Diploma is a two year programme, worth 180 credits and is equivalent to three A Levels. This programme can attract the maximum in UCAS points, which allows for progression to university.

Practical Awards, Certificates and Diplomas

Practical Awards, Certificates and Diplomas are designed to give students realistic experience and the practical skills that they will need in the world of work. Alongside practical sessions, students will also study the necessary theory to enable them to develop the knowledge required for working life.

Functional Skills are practical skills in English, Maths and ICT that allow learners to work confidently, effectively and independently in life, including education and training. They aim to increase achievement in all learning, improve employability and provide a sound basis for progression to further study or training. They also help develop other important skills such as team work, presentation and problem solving. Functional Skills are common to all our lives.

They help make sense of daily life, from working out which deal is best value, to writing an application letter or sur­fing the Internet. They are about using English, Maths and ICT in everyday situations.

They are essential for:

• Getting the most from education and training

• Personal development of all young people and adults

• Developing employability skills

It gives greater meaning to programmes of study and supports progression to clearly defined destinations. It aims to make learning fit-for-purpose for the individual.

Learners completing courses within Foundation Learning can gain credits which allow for the achievement of an Award, Certificate and eventually a Diploma. Foundation Learning covers educational provision at entry level and level 1.

Foundation Learning programmes normally include:

• Functional skills
• Subject and vocational skills and understanding
• Personal and social development
• WorkSkills/Enterprise Skills

Foundation Learning offers students the opportunity to develop further their social and personal skills including numeracy and literacy. With a curriculum which is full of enrichment activities it makes learning fun and meaningful.

With such a diverse range of courses to choose from, Foundation Learning offers the opportunity to develop personal skills and knowledge, at whatever stage you are in life, to make your learning experience relevant and significant.

Foundation and Supported Learning offer a curriculum which is the development of entry level work with numeracy and literacy embedded into a range of subjects.

All course have a wide range of enrichment activities to make learning enjoyable and meaningful.

Study Programmes are what we call our full-time courses. They combine a number of different components developed to equip you with a set of well-rounded skills for the future. This means that your time on campus covers lots more than your chosen subject qualification alone.

Students on a full-time study programme will have around 15 hours of timetabled classes per week, over three or more days, although some will have more. Each course is different, meaning timetables will vary according to your chosen subject area, level of study, and your GCSE English and Maths results.

All courses include the four mandatory aspects outlined in the drop-down sections below, and we have high expectations of your attendance, behaviour and conduct in all parts of your course.

As dictated by the demands and requirements of your chosen industry sector, you will develop the specialist knowledge and skills needed to enable you to succeed in a specific profession through your main study programme.

The main qualification you will achieve during your time at Colchester Institute will form the largest part of your programme. This will be a combination of both theory and practical learning relevant to the subject, and it is fair to say this will be your favourite part!

Our experienced tutors will usually have worked in the industry, and indeed some still do. This means that at all stages they are able to relate their students’ learning to how this will apply when working in that sector. At the College we have various workshops, studios and salons that mirror industry standards, meaning that you will be using up-to-date equipment and developing relevant skills and experience.

Specific entry requirements for each programme are listed on the individual subject pages.

Technical Training

Technical Training Study Programmes are designed for you to develop key industry skills and practice within your chosen vocational area. All students on these programmes will begin at the same level, regardless of grades upon entry, and progress together, providing each element of the course is passed sufficiently. This training will enable you to learn professional techniques and perfect your chosen craft to get you ready for the working world.

English and Maths skills are essential building blocks for any career. Almost every job requires you to have the ability to read, write and use numbers confidently. That’s why we are prioritising the use of English and Maths, not only at College but in all areas of life. Words and numbers are all around us and being able to use them well is a valuable skill for work, study and everyday activities.

As key skills for life, you will continue to develop your English and Maths with us. If, when you enrol, you haven’t yet achieved a grade 4 or above in one or both of these subjects, you will be required to attend 2 hours per week of timetabled GCSE classes. Attendance at these classes are mandatory and you will be working towards GCSE resits and increasing your grades.

If you have already achieved grade 4 or above, you will have English and Maths built around your main course qualification to allow you to continue to stretch and develop these skills.

If you are on a Level 2 or Level 3 study programme you might be lucky enough to take part in an Industry Placement which is typically the equivalent of 45 days in total. Your placement would be specific to your preferred career pathway focusing on the practical and technical skills needed to succeed in your chosen industry.

We work with local employers to source these placements and these opportunities will give you direct experience of what it is like at work, and in some placements you could be earning a wage too!

Work Related Learning, including work experience,  will be an important part of your programme, and completion of this will help you to put your learning into practice, develop real skills, explore different career options and build up your CV ready to land your first great job.

Depending on the subject you choose, work experience is around 30 hours in an academic year.

Throughout your programme, we will offer lots of opportunities for you to join our CREW and focus on your career readiness, employability skills, and all-round personal development. Our aim is to support you to stay healthy and develop as a citizen in modern Britain, embodying British Values and promoting sustainability.

What does CREW stand for?

CAREER READINESS: We offer a well-developed careers programme with opportunities for one-to-one careers guidance interviews and destination focused support including UCAS advice, CV writing and interview skills. Within your subject area you will have access to industry-related visiting speakers, external visits and entry into national competitions. We aim to provide you with the skills to be successful at work or university, and importantly how to aim high!

ENRICHMENT: We offer lots of options for you to get involved in outside the classroom with a programme of trips, guest speakers and workshops open to all students – designed to widen your perspectives and support your personal safety and development.

WELLBEING: Doing well in your studies requires you to be focused and determined. We aim to help you develop your confidence and independence – and also support you to keep physically and mentally healthy. You will explore topics varying from how to keep yourself safe online to how to manage your finances.

CREW is supported by a weekly timetabled tutorial programme covering these wide range of topics.