Qualifications Explained

Supported Learning

A suite of programmes to develop your personal, social development, living skills and employability skills. These programmes are designed for those with learning barriers and special skills needs.

Level 1

Certificate and Award, NVQ, Skills for your Life, Skills for Work

Level 1 courses are for those students who have few qualifications but who are looking to develop their professional and employability skills. These courses are ideal if you have special educational needs or have experienced barriers to education or employment. They will give you a good foundation of skills which you can build upon to progress to Level 2.

Level 2

First Diploma, Certificate, Skills for Work, Apprenticeship

Level 2 qualification gives you good knowledge, understanding and practical skills of a range of subjects. You will have the ability to perform a variety of tasks with some guidance or supervision. Success at Level 2 will enhance your ability to progress to employment or to further study at Level 3.

Level 3

Subsidiary Diploma, 90-credit Diploma, Diploma top up, Extended Diploma top up, Apprenticeship

Level 3 qualification gives you the ability to gain or apply a range of knowledge, skills and understanding, at a detailed level. Level 3 Diplomas can help you progress to employment or to Higher Education courses at Level 4 or Level 5 programmes either at SERC or University. A Level 3 Apprenticeship will equip you with the knowledge and skills within your employed sector.

Level 4

Higher Level Certificate, Higher Level Apprenticeship

These are popular with students who are already in employment as they enable you to put the skills you learn into practice within your current job. You can study at Level 4 and then progress to further study at Level 5.

Level 5

Foundation Degree, Higher Level Diploma, Higher Level Apprenticeship

These qualification combine academic study with work-based learning. They are designed to equip you for a particular area of work, as well as giving you advanced technical and managerial skills, problem solving techniques and knowledge for your chosen career.

Level 6

Degree

This qualification helps you develop advanced understanding of professional and technical areas. A Degree will help you develop your analytical, intellectual and report writing skills. You will also develop leadership and management skills.