Vocational Programmes BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma Is it for me? Our Vocational Programmes are a great option for you if you have done well in your GCSE (or equivalent) studies and now wish to move on to a practical education course focused on your career plans which are a good alternative to A levels. These are two year programmes which offer you the opportunity to focus on the career area of your choice and develop the knowledge and skills that you need for employment or university education in your chosen field. Recognised by universities as a suitable entry qualification for vocational subjects, these qualifications are also excellent preparation for the workplace. All of these courses are at Level 3. This is a pre-university standard which is a UK Border Agency acceptable level of study. A BTEC Level 3 Diploma course will usually involve at least 12 sessions a week in class and you will need to spend plenty of time studying at home or in the Learning Resources Centre. You are expected to be an active participant in the lessons, which will be a mixture of discussion, lectures, group and individual research and practical activities. What will I study? Course choice This Programme will offer you applied learning related to work which is designed to accommodate the needs of employers and to enable your progression to university. You will have the chance to choose one single subject course that fits in with the strengths you have developed at school and with your future plans. All courses will help

you develop the knowledge and skills you need for employment or Higher Education in your chosen field and some involve a significant element of work placement. The courses can often be combined with an A level course. Courses are offered in the following subject areas: Art & Design Business Early Years Education Engineering Health & Social Care Hospitality IT Media Production Music Performing Arts Photography Sports and Travel & Tourism You will be taught by subject specialists and will develop practical and theoretical skills which are assessed through assignments rather than exams. Most of your time will be spent in the College but you will also have the chance to undertake a work placement. Upon successful completion of the two year programme you will be awarded a Level 3 Diploma. ESOL classes In addition to your subject study, you will also benefit from complementary English classes specifically designed for speakers of other languages. These classes run alongside your vocational classes throughout the year to support you further and ensure you achieve outstanding results. Should you need more support or wish to target a university degree with high English entry requirements you may also opt for our In-sessional Enhancement English Language Course which includes additional language and study skills support.

Entry requirements It is expected that students will have completed at least one year of senior school with a good level of attainment. If you would like advice and guidance, please send through your transcripts of any exams you have taken already or your school reports for the last 2 years. One of our international officers will be happy to help you calculate the equivalent study level you have attained in your own country and discuss different course options with you. If you need a UK Border Agency Tier 4 Student Visa to study in the UK, please note that you may study a course at level 3 or higher only and you will need to provide certificated proof of your English Language level. For this course, we require an IELTS score of 5.5 with no band below 5.0 or UKBA approved equivalent. For more information, please see the visa section of our website. If your English language level is under IELTS 5.0 you can join our intensive English language preparation course. Programmes of either 6, 8 or 12 weeks are available depending on your English language level, and after successful completion of the language course you can progress to the International Foundation Year. See our English language course page for more information.