A Levels, T Levels, BTECs and Apprenticeships – which route is right for your child?

A Levels are traditional level 3 qualifications that usually focus on studying a mixture of three or four academic subjects at the same time. They are typically assessed via written work and exams – so they are a good choice if your child enjoys classroom-based learning and tends to perform well under pressure.

In comparison, BTEC courses are a combination of practical, skills-based, and theory-based learning that prepares students to be technically excellent in a specific industry or job area. This means that they are a great choice for those who have an idea of the career or sector they would like to work in. BTECs tend to be assessed through a mix of coursework, projects, and exams – equipping students with the skills for both university or employment. You will find that BTEC courses are offered at a range of levels, from entry-level to level 3 (A Level equivalent), and are becoming an increasingly popular choice, with more parents now preferring their child to gain a vocational qualification after leaving school instead of attending university (FE News, 2021).

T Levels are often recognised as being a good mixture of both A Level and BTEC courses as they combine academic, theory-based study in the classroom with a 45-day on-the-job placement with an employer, so students can gain practical experience in the workplace. T Levels are equivalent to 3 A Levels and have been developed in collaboration with employers and businesses so that the content meets the needs of industry and prepares students for working life.

Last but definitely not least is apprenticeships. These unique courses allow students to work and study at the same time, enabling them to earn a wage whilst gaining a nationally recognised qualification. They will be employed full-time by a company and also enrol on a course at college, combining both hands-on learning in the workplace with theory-based study in the classroom. Most apprentices attend college one day per week on what is known as a ‘day release’ and are paid a national minimum wage of £6.40 per hour (as of April 2024), but this could be much higher depending on the employer and/or industry.