Basingstoke College of Technology

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About the College

Building for your future

Let’s unravel these qualifications to help you make the right choice

GCSE grades A-C
Level 3
BTEC Extended Diplomas
NVQs
GCSE grades D-E
Level 2
BTEC Diplomas
NVQs

These courses provide advanced level skills and application, combining practical and theoretical knowledge. They are ideal for those wanting to go to university or higher level employment. Students with GCSE grades A and B can join academy programmes where they can take linked AS levels alongside their main course.

As part of the programme you will participate in work experience and you can also work towards an enterprise passport.

Allows you the opportunity to move into Higher Education – this could be a Level 4 programme at college or university.

GCSE grades E-F
Level 1

Here you are really starting to gain the skills employers want. Building on your basic knowledge you will improve your skills and technical ability. You can also upgrade your English and Maths GCSEs too.

As part of the programme you will participate in work experience and can work towards an enterprise passport.

Allows you to move onto a Level 3 programme, or gain an Apprenticeship with an employer or into employment

No GCSEs or G grades
Pre-entry and
Entry level courses

This is a great starting point to learn new skills and improve your functional skills in English and Maths along the way.

As part of the programme you will be able to undertake work experience and work towards an enterprise passport

Allows you to move onto a Level 2 programme or employment.

This gives you a good foundation and lets you try out what you’re interested in. It is also a great opportunity to improve your Maths and English skills.

Allows you to move onto a Level 1 programme or into employment

Using your BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma to go on to University

Level 3 programmes are graded by Pass, Merit or Distinction and you will get three separate grades – see the equivalent UCAS points below

BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma Grades UCAS Points A Level Grades
D* D* D* 420 A*A*A*
D* D D 380 A* A A
D D D 360 AAA
D D M 320 AAC
D M M 280 ACC
M M M 240 CCC
M M P 200 CCE
M P P 160 CEE
P P P 120 EEE

Functional Skills (improving your Maths and English)

No matter what career you are aiming for – employers are looking for a solid level of Maths and English. So whether you need to work out measurements in your plumbing course, or complete forms and paperwork in your animal management course – basic Maths and English are essential.

At BCoT we actively encourage all students to work towards a level 2 standard in Maths and English.

You can even retake your GCSEs to gain a minimum grade C, which many employers and universities require.

You will be given all the support you need to build your knowledge and skills at a pace that’s right for you.