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Qualifications Explained

Study Programmes

Choosing a course can be a challenge, as there are many options available. Boston College will prepare your young person for getting a job, continuing their studies or progressing to a Higher Level course, such as a degree, by enrolling them on a study programme.

Study programmes are course packages for those aged 16-18, which are tailored to meet their own personal needs. The study programmes include:

  • A main qualification, e.g a BTEC, vocational course or A levels
  • Meaningful work experience or preparation for work
  • English and Maths (if a GCSE grade 9-4 (A*-C) hasn't already been achieved)
  • Non-study activities, such as tutorials, enterprise, voluntary work, fund-raising, charity work and external trips

For more information on Boston College's Study Programmes, please visit the 'Study Programme' page within 'School Leavers'.

T Levels

From September 2024, Boston College will be offering T Levels. T Levels are brand new two year courses. available for those aged 16 to 18 years old, and are the equivalent to three A Levels.

Endorsed by businesses, they bring together classroom learning and a 315 hour industry placement to allow students to experience an industry while continuing their studies.

For more information on T Levels, please visit the 'T Levels' page within 'School Leavers'.

Levels and Qualifications Explained

Boston College offers a wide range of courses ranging from Entry Level up to Level 7. The chart below shows you how different qualifications compare with one another, as well as the progression route that could be taken.

 

 

Entry Level

Entry level qualifications help develop skills, and increase knowledge along with confidence. There are no entry requirements for these courses.

Progress to: A range of courses at Level 1

 
Progress to: A range of courses at Level 2 or employment

 
Progress to: A range of courses at Level 3 or employment

 
Progress to: A range of University Level courses at Level 4 or above (through Boston College or university) or employment

 
 
Progress to: A range of University Level courses at Level 5 (through Boston College or at university, or employment)

 
Progress to: A range of University Level course at Level 6 (through Boston College or at university, or employment)

 
Progress to: A range of courses at Level 7, such as Master's Degree, Postgraduate Certificates, Postgraduate Diplomas

  • Master's Degree
  • Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)
  • Postgraduate Diplomas and Certificates

Progress to: A range of courses at Level 8, such as a Doctorate (PhD) at university.

Courses for you!

Our courses are not just for your young person! Whatever stage you're at in life, there always opportunities to gain new qualifications, update your skills or set yourself a new challenge. 

Boston College offers a wide variety of courses for adult learners (19+), both daytime and evening, with the majority under 16 hours a week. Ranging from courses to help you get back into work to Degrees, there is sure to be a course for you, and because the College understands it can be difficult to return to learning, there is lots of support available to help you succeed.

For more information, visit our 'Adult Courses' page. 

You can download our course guide

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