Some of the qualifications explained. 

In September 2000, the traditional A level changed. It is now made up of 2 sections, the AS Level, containing 3 units of study and the A2, also containing 3 units. Successful completion of the AS allows progression to the A2. Completion and achievement of both AS and A2 gives a full A Level.
Many students go onto University after studying these courses.
For details of the provision across the Isle of Wight, contact any of the five High Schools.

In September 2000, the Vocational A Level , the AVCE, formerly known as the Advanced GNVQ was introduced. These are qualifications which enable students to develop skills, knowledge and understanding in a vocational area. They are available in different ‘sizes’ as a 3 unit award equivalent to AS Level, as a 6 unit award equivalent to an A Level or as a 12 unit award equivalent to 2 A Levels. They are available in 14 subject areas currently including art & design, business, engineering, ICT, travel and tourism, and construction and media, communication and production.

Each award being a qualification in its own right creates the flexibility. It is possible, on achieving the AS level or a Vocational A Level, to change to a different subject from either the academic or vocational range. Students undertaking these courses have either gone onto university or into employment.

For further information contact any of the Island High Schools or the Isle of Wight College or click here to visit the QCA website:

GNVQ courses have clear similarities to more formal academic studies but have far more relevance to the world of work and employment. Students develop the knowledge, skills and understanding relevant to a broad vocational area, e.g. Health and Social Care, Leisure and |Tourism and often have experience of work within that area. The Foundation level is equivalent to four GCSE grades G-D and the Intermediate level is equivalent to four GCSE grades C-A* . The qualifications are made up of six units. Assessment is through a combination of a collection of work known as a portfolio of evidence with some short tests. Two thirds of the final marks are based on the portfolio of work which is great if you don’t like relying on exams.

NVQ’s are work-related, practical qualifications with the emphasis on acquiring skills and demonstrating your ability. They are awarded to students who provide evidence of competence in one of 11 occupational areas including constructing, manufacturing, providing business services, tending animals, plants and land and communicating. Assessment takes place in the workplace. These are available at 5 levels. Students who complete work based qualifications can progress to higher levels in the same or other types of qualifications.

BTEC Nationals are nationally respected and accredited vocational qualifications with detailed common standards. They have been revised in consultation with industry and the education sector to be relevant to today’s needs. They provide progression to supervisory employment in specific sectors or to study at BTEC HND or degree level. BTEC Nationals have a common core and a range of specialist units, to enable defined pathways to match the needs of students and employers. The modular format based on learning outcomes allows for maximum flexibility in delivery. The three sizes of qualification (Award, Certificate and Diploma) at BTEC National level (NQF level 3) may be used in various modes designed to maximise retention and achievement. There are opportunities for innovative teaching and learning based on applying knowledge and understanding to the needs of a specialist industry sector.