Contact Strode CollegeCourse Types Overview
Foundation Learning
This course has been designed for learners with no or few qualifications, from Entry Level to Level 1, and who can demonstrate motivation and a keen interest in gaining further skills and knowledge. The programme will enable learners to gain skills in Functional Skills, English, Maths and ICT; Personal Social Development, Independent Living Skills and Vocational Skills. The programmes are designed to meet individual needs and to this end learners will be given clear advice and guidance and in depth initial assessment.
Level 2
Courses generally for students with 5 or more GCSEs in the D/E range (or equivalent).
Level 2 Diploma
This one year course comprises 6 units and is assessed at Pass, Merit or Distinction. It is equivalent to at least 4 grade C GCSEs (depending on the number of units at each grade).
Level 2 NVQ Diploma
A vocational one or two year course which is assessed as Pass only. Students with higher GCSE grades may need to do this course before progressing to NVQ 3 due to the specific vocational skills needed.
Higher Diploma
This qualification became available in 2008 and is an applied route where there is a combination of academic and vocational learning with a compulsory period of work experience. Successful completion of the qualification is equivalent to 7 good GCSEs.
Level 3
Courses for students who have achieved 5 or more GCSEs at grade A* - C (or equivalent)
Level 3 NVQ Diploma
This can be a one or two year full or part-time course. It is vocational in nature and is assessed at Pass only.
AS Level
One year course in a specific subject, such as Biology, French, etc (assessed at grades A-E).
A Level (A2)
The second year of an A Level subject leads to the full A Level (assessed at grades A-E).
Level 3 Extended Diploma
This is an 18 unit full-time course equivalent to 3 A Levels - assessed at Pass, Merit or Distinction. The actual equivalent A Level grades depend on the number of each grade achieved.
National Award
A 6 unit course offered over one or two years, equivalent to 1 A Level (graded Pass, Merit, Distinction).
Advanced Diploma
This qualification became available in 2008 and is an applied route where there is a combination of academic and vocational learning with a compulsory period of work experience. Successful completion of this qualification is equivalent to 3.5 A Levels.
