Vocational Courses

The Level 2 Diploma is a one year course. The Extended Diploma is a two year course at Level 3, which can gain you entry to Degree Level Study. Extended Diplomas are not usually combined with AS/A2 Levels.

What are the advantages of vocational courses?

Vocational courses are nationally recognised and accepted by employers and Higher Education.

Vocational courses are related to areas of work, for example in Business Studies, Caring, Design or Engineering. They encourage you to take a measure of responsibility for your own learning and to practise and be assessed in skills such as problem solving, information gathering, communication and information technology. As the courses are continuously assessed, and project or assignment based, you will have a clear idea of your progress at every stage of your course. Some courses involve a period of work experience.

What prospects are there for me in the future?

If you have achieved a vocational Level 2 Diploma at Merit or Distinction you may progress to an Extended or other vocational course, or enter full-time employment.

The Extended Diploma Award entitles you to apply to Higher Education in a University on a degree course, or to progress directly into employment.

At GCSE we offer retake programmes in English and Mathematics for students with a Grade D.

List of Vocational subject areas on offer for 2012

Art and Design Extended Diploma
Art and Design Foundation Diploma
Apprenticeships
Business Extended Diploma
Children's Care Learning and Development (CCLD) Extended Diploma
Children's Care Learning and Development Level 2 Diploma
Creative Media Production Extended Diploma
Foundation Programme
Health and Social Care Extended Diploma
Health and Social Care Level 2 Diploma
IT Practitioner Extended Diploma
Information Technology Level 2 Diploma
Manufacturing Engineering Extended Diploma
Manufacturing Engineering Level 2 Diploma
Music Extended Diploma
Pathways For Students with learning difficulties and disabilities
Performing Arts Extended Diploma
Performing Arts Level 2 Diploma
Social Studies Extended Diploma in Public Service
Social Studies Level 2 Diploma in Public Service
Sport and Exercise Sciences Extended Diploma
Sport and Exercise Sciences Level 2 Diploma
Travel and Tourism Extended Diploma