Which level is right for me?
We offer a huge range of courses at varying levels. The level you study will depend on your previous achievements and qualifications.
For example, if you have no formal qualifications, an entry or Level 1 course is likely to be most appropriate. Or, if you're coming to College after gaining five GCSEs at grade 4/C and above, a Level 2 or 3 course - such as A Levels, an Extended Diploma or an intermediate apprenticeship - will be a natural progression.
So, if you're unsure what level is right for you, what qualifications you require for a particular level of study, and what skill level you can expect to gain, then please use the guide on the right of this page (or below if you're on mobile).
These pre-vocational programmes are an introduction
to a wide range of options in order for you to make an
informed choice regarding your chosen vocational area.
DURATION - 1 to 3 YEARS
REQUIREMENTS
For those with no formal qualifications or who have
GCSE outcomes at grade 2 and below. Ideal for learners
who might need a differentiated programme of training,
and where support may be needed to successfully
access learning at a higher level.
PROGRESSION
You can progress to one or a combination of the
following:
• Higher level programmes such as Level 1
• Supported internships
• Employment
• Independent living
Level 1 study programmes develop the key skills and
learning behaviours necessary for you to successfully
progress to a level 2 programme, traineeship or
apprenticeship. They provide a particular focus on
maths, English and personal development skills.
DURATION - 1 YEAR
REQUIREMENTS
A minimum of five GCSEs at grade 3-1, with at least
two at grade 3, or the successful completion of a
pre-vocational programme or entry level programme
after pre-vocational.
PROGRESSION
With this level of qualification you could move onto
a Level 2 study programme or an apprenticeship at
Level 2. Options include:
• Technical qualifications such as diplomas, certificates
and NVQs at level 2
• Transition to T Level Programme
• Intermediate apprenticeships
Level 2 study programmes equip you with the
skills you need for a specific career. You will start to
specialise in the areas you find most interesting but the
qualifications are still broad enough to give you a wide
range of progression opportunities if you’re not sure
what you’d like to do in the future.
DURATION - 1 YEAR
REQUIREMENTS
A minimum 5 GCSE grade 9-2 with at least two
at grade 4 or a qualifying Level 1 qualification with
identified competence level achieved in maths
and English.
PROGRESSION
With this level of qualification you could move onto
a Level 3 study programme, into a job with training,
or an apprenticeship at Level 3. Options include:
• A Levels
• T Levels
• Advanced apprenticeship
Level 3 study programmes usually last one or two
years, and offer more specialised, advanced learning
which give you the skills and knowledge to progress
directly into a job, a higher apprenticeship or
university level course.
DURATION - 2 YEARS
REQUIREMENTS
A minimum of 5 GCSE grade 9-4 or a qualifying Level 2
qualification with identified competence level achieved
in maths and English. Please note that some of our level
3 qualifications have additional entry criteria. All of
these can be found on the programme’s webpage.
PROGRESSION
With this level of qualification you could progress into
skilled employment or a range of further study options
such as:
• Foundation Degrees (Level 4)
• Bachelor Degrees (Level 5/6)
• Higher and Degree apprenticeships (From Level 4)
• HNDs (Level 4)
• Professional qualifications at level 4 and above
University Centre Weston (UCW) offers around 50
degree level courses.