What exactly are progression routes?
They are the different qualifications you can take to get you from one level to the next. Qualifications start at entry level and progress up to level 8. Every job you apply for in the future will ask for a certain level of qualification, and if you’re interested in a particular career, it’s important to know what level of qualification employers in that field are looking for.

Click here to see the different levels of qualifications

Which qualifications will help me progress?
Most people are familiar with the traditional academic route to progression – GCSEs and A levels – but these are not the only route. Students can also take vocational qualifications which follow a more practical, career-orientated style of learning and include qualifications such as BTECs, foundation degrees and HNCs/HNDs. You can even work and study at the same time through the apprenticeship/advanced apprenticeship scheme where you can progress by achieving NVQ qualifications.

The Diploma qualification is now also available for 14-19 year olds and offers a combination of vocational and academic study.

Can I only take one type of qualification?
No. Every type of qualification sits on a certain level, so you can choose any learning type you like. For example, if you have a BTEC or NVQs at level 2 you could go on to study A levels.

How do I find out what qualifications I need?
When you’re choosing options at school, it’s worth having an idea of what you might want to do when you leave school, or what you might want to study at a higher education institution.

That way, you can find out what qualifications you will need to follow that path. Then, if you think you will not get the qualifications you need, you are well placed to consider an alternative.

What if I don’t know what I want to do when I leave school?
It’s actually very rare that students have a clear idea of what they want to do for a career, so it’s worth doing a bit of research to find out just what’s out there. There are so many professions – some you might not even have heard of!

Where can I find out about courses and careers?
The website www.yourfuture-eastmidlands.co.uk will give you all the information you need on qualifications, levels, different types of learning and careers. You can put together a ‘progression map’ where you can plan what qualifications you will need for your chosen career. You can also search for courses and course providers throughout the East Midlands.