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While the most common way of going through your studies would be through to your A Levels and heading to University. What a lot of people might not know is that there are actually a few ways you could go about reaching your specific goals. This is where BTEC Qualifications are a great option. In this guide from the best private school in London, we look at what BTEC qualifications are and how you can decide if they’re a good fit for your child.
What is a BTEC?
A BTEC is a qualification students can receive after compulsory secondary school study. It stands for Business and Technology Education Council, the provider for these qualifications, and they usually specialise in courses you wouldn’t ordinarily experience in sixth form.
Your child for example may have a keen interest in carpentry, something that your child won’t be able to fully experience in high school. In that case, your child would be better going to college to complete their studies.
How is a BTEC different from A Levels?
While A Levels nicely lead from GCSE study, BTEC gives children a whole different way of learning. They’re able to have more practical lessons in BTEC courses, especially when a lot of these kinds of courses explore different professions and abilities.
As opposed to A Level study, BTEC qualifications are still equivalent to an A Level. BTEC Level 3 courses are the equivalent to an A Level and are still regarded by Universities and Further Education Colleges as a legitimate qualification.
Children can also look to explore apprenticeships or internships while still earning a qualification. A BTEC can work nicely in this regard, as your child is getting hands on with their skills whilst learning and earning grades at the same time.
Why are BTEC qualifications beneficial?
A Levels, while the traditional way of learning, are known for their jump in difficulty from GCSEs. For some children it can be a lot to handle – and picking up something more engaging and interactive will help their learning style and preferences. Some children have no interest in pursuing A Levels altogether, and BTEC qualifications can help fill that gap.
The other benefit is how fluid and engaging they can be. Students can pick up BTEC qualifications alongside other qualifications. So if your child really wanted to, they could take up a BTEC while also studying A Levels or taking up full time employment. They’re flexible, can be used to work towards other qualifications, and can give your child the freedom they’re after with their studies.