Qualifications

Guide to Levels and Qualifications

  • Foundation Learning: Foundation Learning is the national suite of learning for 14-19 year old learners working predominantly at Entry Level or Level 1.

    • These courses offer opportunities to progress to Level 2 (Diplomas, Apprenticeships, GCSEs) and others to independent living or supported employment.

    Foundation Learning programmes encompass three distinct components:

    1. Subject or vocational knowledge, skills and understanding
    2. Functional Skills in ICT, English and Mathematics
    3. Personal and social development learning

    All our Foundation Learning programmes include support and Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG)

  • Entry Level: Have you a statement of educational needs or a learning difficulty/disability? If so look for the 'Entry Level' symbol
  • Level One: Have you completed your secondary education up to and including year 11 and have few formal qualifications? If so look for the 'Level 1' symbol
  • Level Two: Have you completed your secondary education and have a minimum of 2 GCSEs at A* - D or a Foundation Level qualification? If so look for the 'Level 2' symbol
  • Level Three: Have you completed your secondary education with a minimum of 4 GCSEs A* - C or an Intermediate Level qualification? If so look for the 'Level 3' symbol
  • Maths and English: All learners who have not achieved a grade C in English or maths GCSE will continue to study those subjects at the level appropriate to their ability as part of their full time programme, in accordance with government regulations existing at the time.

Please note that individual Level 2 literacy and numeracy qualifications may not be the equivalent of a full GCSE qualifcation.