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We'll explain the jargon so it's as easy as 1, 2, 3. Well, actually, they go up to Level 8...

This is for you if you don’t have any formal qualifications. To benefit from the course you should be committed to improving your qualifications and skills.

Types of courses
  • Foundation Learning
You will get

Practical and independent skills which will help you progress to a Level 1 course.

This is for you if you are starting a new subject and want to gain basic knowledge of an area.

Types of courses
  • Award
  • Certificate
  • Diploma
  • NVQ
  • Progression 2
You will get

Practical, employability and independent skills, plus an introduction to your subject. On successful completion, you could progress on to a Level 2 course.

This is for you if you are looking to improve your subject knowledge. Depending on your GCSE grades, it might be possible for you to start at this level if you have met the entry criteria. You could also secure a job.

Types of courses
  • Award
  • Certificate
  • Diploma
  • NVQ
  • Intermediate Apprenticeship
You will get

Excellent subject knowledge and education, coupled with problem-solving skills, work experience and employability skills.

This level is for you if you want to progress on to university or degree level courses at the college. The level could also lead to a job.

Types of courses
  • Certificate
  • Diploma
  • NVQ (National Vocational Qualification)
  • Advanced Apprenticeship
You will get

Outstanding subject knowledge and problem solving skills as well as adaptability, managing work relationships and business knowledge.

This level is for you if you want to become a specialist in your subject area and take your learning to the next level.

Types of courses
  • HNC (Higher National Certificate)
  • Foundation Degree
  • Bachelor’s/Honours Degree
  • Higher Apprenticeship
You will get

Advanced subject knowledge and problem-solving skills as well as leadership and project management skills.

At this level you will really be honing in on your subject understanding and be gaining the skills to find solutions to complex problems.

Types of courses
  • HND (Higher National Diploma)
  • Foundation Degree
  • Bachelor’s/Honours Degree
  • Degree Apprenticeship
You will get

Expert subject knowledge and problem-solving skills as well as the competencies to be able to manage and train others.

This is the highest level you can study at our college. At this level you will be using your own research and ideas and could progress on to a postgraduate course at university.

Types of courses
  • Bachelor’s/Honours Degree
  • Degree Apprenticeship
You will get

At this level you will develop specialist subject knowledge and the ability to find solutions to complex issues.

A level 7 course is the second-highest level qualification you can achieve and is equivalent to a Master's Degree. Level 7 qualifications are highly sought after by employers, as they demonstrate a great number of skills and knowledge, as well as a dedication to the industry you are looking to work in. Examples include MA, Master of Arts and MSc, Master of Science, PGCE, Postgraduate Certificate in Education.

Level 8 qualifications are the highest qualification and include:

  • Doctorate, for example Doctor of Philosophy (PhD or DPhil)
  • Level 8 Award
  • Level 8 Certificate
  • Level 8 Diploma.