Alternative to A Level: The technical pathway to university

These qualification pathways are nationally recognised as the equivalent to three A Levels, while additionally offering invaluable industry placement, strong employer links, and the need-to-know hands-on skills required be successful in their chosen sector.

BTECs, or technical courses, are practical qualifications which cover a vast range of subjects, from construction trades and health and social care, hospitality and catering, graphic design, and many more. BTECs are available at multiple levels, each getting progressively more advanced; with options from entry level, where no minimum GCSEs are required, to level 3 available for young people considering studying at Warrington & Vale Royal College.

T Levels, introduced in 2020, are 2-year courses that were created by employers and designed to give students real world experience of life after college. T Levels combine a practical and classroom-based approach to learning, allowing students to develop a well-rounded understanding of their dream industry and career.

As Warrington’s leading provider of technical education, the college prides itself on delivering a high-quality education to all its students, helping students to gain employment or seek out higher education once they have completed their courses. 

To help raise awareness of these A-Level–equivalent courses that support students each year in securing university places, the college is hosting a Level 3 Future Focus Evening, on Thursday 26^th March from 6.00pm-7.30pm at the Warrington campus. Parents, carers, and students are all welcome to hear informative and engaging talks about level 3 qualifications and T Levels, including the introduction of new A Level pathways, as well as explore the extensive support available to students and applicants.