Everyone has a style of learning that they prefer. Some people thrive on academic study, whilst others enjoy a more practical approach. Most would probably choose a bit of both.

The great news is that these days there is more choice than ever before over the types of qualifications you can study and the opportunities they can lead to.

However, so much choice can also be confusing, so in this section we will look at the different types of qualifications available, explain where they all fit in and where they can lead.

Qualification levels
Qualifications are grouped together into ‘levels’. They start at entry level and go right up to level 8. As there are so many different types of qualifications to choose from, grouping them in this way helps you to see what level you’re at and how you can progress from that level. All qualifications sit within the ‘National Qualifications Framework’. This framework is recognised by all educational bodies in England, Northern Ireland and Wales.

Qualifications are grouped as follows:

Entry level qualifications
All entry level qualifications are called Entry Level Certificates. They focus on a particular subject or area, in which they develop:

• basic knowledge
• skills
• understanding.

They build confidence and help people to prepare for further learning, work and independent living.

Level 1 qualifications
These qualifications include:

• National Vocational Qualifications at level 1
• GCSEs achieved at grades D-G
• The Foundation Diploma
• BTEC Introductory Certificates and Diplomas
• City & Guilds Foundation Awards.

They improve basic knowledge, understanding and skills in a subject, a specific work area or a broad economic sector.

They help you to use your learning in everyday situations and tasks.

They will also help to prepare you for other level 1 qualifications and for qualifications at levels 2 and 3.

Level 2 qualifications
These qualifications include:

• National Vocational Qualifications at level 2
• GCSEs achieved at grades A*-C
• The Higher Diploma
• The BTEC First Diploma
• City & Guilds Intermediate Awards
• Young Apprenticeships.

They build your knowledge, understanding and skills in a subject, a specific work area or a broad economic sector.

They enable you to use your learning in a wide range of tasks and also help you to prepare for other level 2 qualifications and for qualifications at level 3.

Most employers use this level as their minimum entry requirement.

Level 3 qualifications
These qualifications include:

• National Vocational Qualifications at level 3
• AS and A levels
• The Advanced and Progression Diplomas
• The International Baccalaureate
• The BTEC National Award
• City & Guilds Advanced Awards.

They develop your detailed knowledge, understanding and skills in a subject, a specific work area or a broad economic sector.

They help you to use your learning in a wide range of tasks and situations. They also help you to prepare for other level 3 qualifications and for qualifications at level 4.

Universities require most applicants to be qualified to this level. Employers will increasingly look for applicants who are qualified to at least this level.

Qualifications at levels 4 to 8
These qualifications include:

• National Vocational Qualifications at levels 4 and 5
• Foundation degrees
• Honours degrees
• Higher National Certificates and Diplomas
• Specialist professional qualifications
• Postgraduate qualifications.

They involve in-depth learning about a specific occupational role or area of study.

They help you to become a specialist in your area of learning or work.

For more information about the individual qualifications mentioned above, go to http://www.connexions-direct.com/index.cfm?pid=10.