BTECs

Raring to get stuck into your chosen career? With practical teaching and hands-on learning, taking a BTEC could be the perfect first step to success.

"BTECs cover career choices that range from sports to social services."

What is a BTEC?

BTEC stands for Business and Technology Education Council. As the name suggests, BTECs are industry-led qualifications designed to help you learn more about a particular area of work. Many BTECs have been created with advice from real-life industry professionals.

What makes a BTEC different from other qualifications?

"A BTEC is really hands-on," says media teacher Carla Taylor. "For example, students doing a BTEC in Media Production are expected to pitch ideas for programmes, take part in shoots and learn about copyright along the way. There's often some kind of work experience involved, too."

Which subject areas can I study?

BTECs cover career choices that range from sports to social services. Courses currently available include:

Child Studies
Creative Arts
Hospitality
Leisure and Sport
Motor Vehicles and Engineering
Retail

What are the entry requirements?

Different BTEC qualifications have specific entry requirements, so check with your college to find out if you're eligible for a course.

What level BTEC can I take?

BTECs are available at different levels that relate to the National Qualifications Framework. For instance, a Level 1 BTEC is the equivalent to 4 GCSEs grades D–U, while a Level 2 BTEC is worth 4 GCSEs grades A –C. Speak to your college or find out more on the DirectGov website.

How will I be assessed?

BTECs don't involve written exams. Instead, you'll be assessed by coursework, case studies and evidence of the skills you've developed on the course. At the end you'll be awarded a pass, merit, or distinction.

How long will it take?

You can study full-time or part-time, usually over a period of one or two years.

Where can a BTEC take me?

Because BTECs are closely linked to different career options they can lead straight into the world of work. However, a BTEC can also be used as the basis for further study. For example, a Level 3 BTEC can count towards getting a place at university.

By Matt Chittock

Updated:12/07/2010

Did you know?

BTECs are different to Apprenticeships because Apprenticeships involve learning on the job, while BTECs are classroom based.

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Before you decide which BTEC suits you it pays to do some research into the career path you want to get into. Book an appointment with a careers advisor and see what the everyday job involves.
For a more detailed overview of the BTECs that are available, search the comprehensive list of courses at the Edexcel website.
Call the college you wish to study at and find out if you have the right qualifications to take a BTEC with them.
For a taste of what studying for a BTEC is really like, ask around for friends and family who might already have taken the course.
Visit www.careersadvice.direct.gov.uk for more online advice on skills and learning.

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