Help For Teens - Connexions County Durham
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For England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
The National Qualifications Framework (NQF) sets out the levels at which qualifications are recognised.
The framework has nine levels, entry to level 8, as described and shown on the diagram below - click on the file link below to see the diagram.
Entry Level
Entry level is the first level and is sub-divided into levels 1, 2 and 3 which are comparable with the national curriculum levels. The qualifications are called 'certificates' of educational achievement. Some Young Apprenticeships start at this level.
Level 1
Level 1 is a foundation level including GCSEs at grades D - G, VRQ level 1 and NVQ level 1. GCSEs could be academic or vocational. Young Apprenticeships are likely to start at this level in Year 10 and Apprenticeships for young people 16+.
Level 2
Level 2 is intermediate level qualifications including GCSEs at grades A* - C, VRQ level 2 and NVQ level 2. Apprenticeship courses will offer level 2 qualifications; these may be VRQ or NVQ courses.
Level 3
Level 3 is advanced, technician and supervisory level courses. These include A levels, academic and vocational, VRQ level 3 and NVQ level 3 qualifications. This level is also the recognised level for Advanced Apprenticeships. The A level courses include the AS and A2 courses of study. In addition, more able students may be offered the opportunity to follow Advanced Extension Awards, which are also at level 3.
Level 4
Level 4 is the courses included in higher education such as, Foundation degrees, Higher National Diplomas, Diplomas of Higher Education and degree courses. In addition it is possible to study to NVQ level 4, whilst in employment.
Level 5 - 8
Level 5 to 8 are management, professional and chartered qualifications. These are often gained through post graduate courses at university, specific professional courses completed alongside employment or a combination of study and professional competence. Some careers require this level of qualification to enable employment. NVQ level 5 courses are available in selected work areas.
Related Files
The National Qualifications Framework
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