1. BTECs – qualifications for the 21st century
BTECs are proven and trusted qualifications that are internationally recognised and highly respected by employers and higher education institutions. Almost a million learners are currently registered on BTEC courses in the UK. Many students choose BTECs because they find them challenging and rewarding. Others like BTECs because they provide a more personal, vocational education.
As the new 14-19 qualification framework develops, it is clear that BTECs will continue to play a vital role.
2. BTECs – playing a key role in delivering the 14-19 strategy
The DCSF 14-19 strategy envisages four main curriculum frameworks:
- GCSE and A level
- Diplomas
- Apprenticeships
- Foundation Learning Tier
- as well as free-standing qualifications outside of these four frameworks.
The DCSF states that they 'are currently working with the awarding organisations who offer these high take-up qualifications to develop plans for these qualifications as the four national suites evolve'.*
Edexcel has taken up this opportunity and is working with the DCSF to plan how BTEC qualifications will be part of all four main frameworks from 2013, as well as standing outside of them where such a need is evident.
- BTECs supporting GCSE and A level programmes
For some learners, as now, it will be appropriate to take a BTEC as part of a GCSE or A level programme
- BTECs as part of the Diploma
BTEC Introductory, First and National qualifications are already playing an important role in adding a vocational element to learners’ Diploma programmes, and the newly configured specialist learning short courses are adding a further dimension
- BTECs contributing to Apprenticeships
BTECs provide the Technical Certificate element of many Apprenticeships, and this will continue to be the case in the new frameworks
- BTECs in the Foundation Learning Tier
Edexcel will have extensive vocational provision for Entry and level 1 learners, all of which will be made up of BTEC units and qualifications
- BTECs as free-standing qualifications
Where the needs of learners are not adequately met through one of the four routes above, BTECs will continue to be available as a free-standing option.
3. BTECs – preparation and continuity
Edexcel is currently redeveloping its entire suite of vocational and academic qualifications – including all BTECs – to ensure they continue to engage learners, meet the needs of the regulatory bodies, and help centres improve attainment. All new BTECs will be QCF-approved and ready for first teaching from September 2010.
At the same time, we are continuing to develop and roll out our Diploma programme, and are working with the DCSF to help ensure that all 17 lines of learning are available to all learners by September 2013. We will evaluate the introduction of our new Diplomas and BTECs, and will continue to review the relationship between these and all our qualifications.
As the largest provider of the Diploma and the only awarding body to offer BTECs, Edexcel is in the best position to help you provide a programme of BTECs, Diplomas and other qualifications that is perfectly matched to the needs of your learners.
4. BTECs - continuing to help improve attainment
BTECs have helped the government’s drive to improve attainment in schools. So far, more
than 2,500 schools and more than 450 colleges have invested in BTECs, and this number continues to grow.
Some schools have seen considerable improvements in their success rates because of the enhanced motivation and performance of learners who have found BTECs more suited to their learning styles. Within colleges, a record number of BTEC National students are taking up places within higher education.
The government, Edexcel and others are working together to make sure this trend continues and that BTEC continues to play a key role in the future of education.
* DCSF 14-19 website: What about BTECs, OCR Nationals and City and Guilds?
BTEC 2010 Presentation (PowerPoint)
