A Level vs T Level vs BTEC

Here at Cadbury Sixth Form College we offer a range of level 3 programmes at A-Level, BTEC and T-Level, as well as several level 2 courses for those wishing to improve upon their GCSE qualifications. Picking the right route for you after GCSEs is important and you need to gain an understanding of the different types of qualification on offer to work out which route works best for you.

If you’re unclear about which route to opt for here are some things to consider when choosing your options after school:

– What do your current studies at school tell you? Do you love maths and working with numbers, theories, are you creative or do you enjoy more hands on learning? Thinking about what you are good at can help.

– Select subjects you enjoy – studying a subject you are genuinely interested in will greatly improve your chances of succeeding at college.

– What are your plans for the future? Whether you intend to go to university, on to an apprenticeship or straight into employment, different routes may require you to study specific courses at college – so make sure you do your research.

– Seek advice – ask our careers team questions weekly via our web chat facility or discuss your choices with a member of staff at interview.

– Visit the college – attend open days, taster sessions and applicant days to meet subject teachers and current students.

What’s the difference?

All of our level 3 programmes are equal to A-Levels and are accepted by universities if that’s the route you wish to take. What’s important is matching your ambitions and strengths to the options available to ensure you get the best results.

A-Levels

A Level courses are predominantly assessed by examinations, although some subjects may have a coursework component as well. All A Level courses are linear, meaning examinations are taken at the end of two years. These are Level 3 courses, ideally suited for progression into University or Higher Level Apprenticeships.

To study an A Level course you will need a minimum of five GCSEs (with two at grade 6, and three at grade 4). Due to the advanced level most subjects will have additional individual entry requirements.

BTECs

Because BTEC courses are vocational in nature they are more practical routes of academic study. Each course will have a larger coursework element to the assessment method. All our BTEC courses are studied at Level 3 meaning they are ideally suited to progression to University or Higher Level Apprenticeships. BTEC courses come in different sizes and are the equivalent to either one, two or three A Levels.

To study a BTEC Level 3 course you will need a minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4. BTECs can also be studied alongside A Level courses if you meet the entry requirements.

T-Levels

T Levels are an alternative to A Levels, apprenticeships and BTECs. Combining academic study of A Levels with a focus on vocational skills and can help students into skilled employment, university or higher level apprenticeships. Each T Level includes an industry placement of at least 45 days giving students valuable experience in the work place.