Mahreen Rashdi
Subject Leader (Coursework – GQ Assessment) Operations

Intermediate GNVQ – Business Studies
Advanced GNVQ - Business Studies

Period achieved: 06/97 - 06/99

“Vocational qualifications encourage people to use their skills and knowledge in both practical and written form. The structure of a lot of the courses, as well as the vast subject areas being taught, allows students to apply what they have learnt in everyday life, ultimately gaining lifetime skills that will stay with them forever.”

BTEC Computer Studies (1991)

Alison studied for a BTEC in Computer Studies at her local technology college. She did so while raising her children, preparing herself for a time when she would return to work.

“I did not know anything about computers at the time and wanted to keep up with developing technology. I also wanted to have some idea of what my children would be talking about! The course was an invaluable learning experience and gave me confidence in using computers and an appreciation of their capability.”

Ste Nelson
NCT Programme Delivery Manager (Operations)

BTEC Foundation Studies in Art & Design (1999)

Following his A Levels, Ste completed a foundation course in Art & Design. This enabled him to go to University and further his studies.

“Above all, the course meant I could reach my goal of taking a bachelors degree,” Ste said. “It also gave me a broad overview of the various disciplines available within the sector, so informed my choice of BA course.”

Val Benney
BTEC Regional Quality Manager

Certificate in Health and Safety Management – British Safety Council (2004)

Val undertook a vocational qualification to further her experience and knowledge of assessing Health and Safety courses in FE and Promotion. This enabled her to widen her area of expertise in a growing sector. “The course gave me the knowledge necessary to allow me to take on additional responsibilities as Programme Manager.”

BTEC National – Mechanical Engineering (1992)

Simon chose to do a BTEC rather than following a more academic route as he wanted to learn in a more “hands-on” practical way “rather than out of a text book”. His BTEC led him on to an HND, and helped secure him a job in autocross motor sport when he needed to return to Germany due to family matters. “I was the local boy who was able to fix anything mechanical/electrical, so made a fair amount of money out of it!” Simon said.

City & Guilds Intermediate Chemical Plant Operation (1964)
City & Guilds Advanced Chemical Plant Operation (1966)
Ordinary National Certificate in Science (1970)
Higher National Certificate in Chemistry  (1972)
Post Graduate Certificate in Education (FE) (1976)
Chartered Chemist (1977)
Neuro Linguistic Programming Practitioner (for teachers) (1998)
Neuro Lingusitic Programming Master Practitioner (for teachers) (1999)
BTEC Professional Diploma in Management Development (2003)

John left school with no formal qualifications. His vocational qualifications furthered his career from apprentice to a technician and then helped him to gain a place at university. Following various additional vocational studies he went into teaching. He progressed to become lecturer, senior lecturer and then Head of Department in different FE/HE colleges, and more recently joined Edexcel as a Qualification Leader and is now a Development Manager in product development.

“Vocational qualifications enabled me to advance both my career and personal development, completing 15 years of part-time study and three years’ full time study after leaving school and gaining a doctorate at the age of 40.”

Diploma of the Chartered Institute of Purchasing & Supply (1979)
Postgrad Cert Ed (1983)

Gerry found that his Diploma helped him develop expertise in his field and gain professional recognition. He found both courses indispensable in bringing his skills to minimum industry standards in terms of professional competence. “The courses also enabled me to spend £3,000,000 a year on French wines and spirits, and torment kids in schools and colleges for 17 years!”.