1. Studying Vocational Courses
Welcome and please find a seat
Mr. Dorey
Leader of Vocational Education

2. Introduction The aim of this presentation is to:
Provide an overview of vocational courses and the differences between them and 'Traditional’ A level’s.
Help understand the structure and results of vocational courses
Explain what students/your child should expect from Vocational Courses and how to prepare themselves appropriately to be successful.

3. Level 2 & Level 3 Courses Two types of course are currently offered...
1 year course - Year 12 only.
Mixture of exams and coursework (some courses are coursework only).
Includes 1 week of work experience during the year to enhance employability skills. Also gives opportunity to move onto Level 3.
Level 3:
2 year course – Years 12 & 13.
Mixture of exams and coursework.
Equivalent to A Level courses.

4. Vocational courses vs ‘Traditional’ A Level
The misconception is that Level 3 vocational courses count for less than ‘traditional’ A Level courses. This is incorrect.
Level of study is the same (Level 3), just achieved in a different way.
Different attitudes remain in different industries/pathways towards the qualifications – e.g. Oxbridge vs other Universities & Industry.

5. What’s the Difference? ‘Traditional’ A Level Course Vocational Course
100% exams at the end of 2 years of study.
Exams commonly can be 2 hours long (at least) and between 2-4 are taken per subject.
No coursework, all theory taught by the teacher.
Grades given as A* to U.
Internally assessed units (e.g. coursework) which is marked by the subject teacher/department during the course. Externally moderated afterwards.
All courses have one (or more) examined units. (Except Level 2 Business for this year only).
Grades given as Pass (P), Merit (M), Distinction (D) or Distinction Star (D*).
The style of learning is different as a result of having coursework.

6. What will each year look like?
Each subject will teach examined and coursework units in the order that best suits, however at some point:
Formal external exams take place in January or May/June (or both!). Resits can be taken at a cost to the student (unless on a bursary).
Usually coursework units are completed either side (or alongside with a different teacher) the examined units.
Students must complete all units on the course to be given a grade.
The average of all the results from each unit provides the final grade.

7. Example Year Plan: Level 3 Year 1 Year 2 Sep-Jan Feb-May Teacher 1
Unit 1 (Exam)
Exam
Unit 3
(Coursework)
Externally Assessed
Unit 5 (Exam)
Unit 7
Teacher 2
Unit 2
Unit 4
(Exam)
Unit 6
Unit 8

8. Being successful on vocational courses
NB: Coursework does not make the course ‘easier’!
Students must have:
Capture skills – always writing down homework and outstanding tasks in their diaries
Time management & independent study skills
Prioritisation of simultaneous tasks (common to have 3-8 tasks running at the same time)
Research skills – both using search engines (such as Google) & library/textbook research
Communication skills – with teachers & parents/guardians

9. How can I support a student taking a vocational course?
Show and reinforce organisational skills such as diary management, time management & prioritisation. These are discussed by teachers at the start of term but any additional support helps.
Communication with teachers if worried about students. Contact any teacher via the website or contacting the office.
Work/School Work Balance – those who work more in a job than on their studies, will and do fail... maintaining the balance is key.

10. Thank you for listening
Can I take any questions?