Work Based Learning

Become a BTEC centre If you aren’t already running BTECs or NVQs from Edexcel, then you’ll need to become an approved centre. What is BTEC approval? Any organisation wishing to deliver BTEC programmes must first gain centre approval from Edexcel. An approved centre must obtain qualification approval to deliver and assess any BTEC programme at any level. If you’re not sure which qualifications your centre is approved to deliver, you can check this on Edexcel Online.

Quick Links  Edexcel Online  UK Information Manual  Centre or qualification approval for BTEC (QCF)  Centre or qualification approval for BTEC (NQF) - UK employers and training providers  Expression of Interest  Regional office contact details

Why is it important?

• You will only be able to register students if you are an approved centre, running an approved programme.
• We need to know that you are delivering BTEC programmes so that support mechanisms can be put in place to help with delivery and assessment.

How does it work?

• If you are a school or college with a Cambridge number, you can gain BTEC approval through Edexcel Online. You can find out more about the online centre approvals process by referring to Chapter 15 (p340 onwards) of the Information Manual. Find chapter 15 of the information manual here.
   
• Approval is straightforward, and we’re here to support and guide you through the process. Visit the BTEC approvals page to view the  relevant forms and a step-by-step help guide. 
   
• Once your centre is approved, you can visit Edexcel Online to select the BTEC qualifications you wish to deliver. You’ll also have access to other online features, such as an area to register your learners.
   
• If you are an employer or training provider and want to become an approved Edexcel centre, you will need to complete an online Expression of Interest form. A member of our Work-based Learning team will then contact you.
    
• If you are an existing Edexcel employer or training provider centre wishing to offer an additional NQF BTEC qualification, you can apply via Edexcel Online. Applications for some BTEC qualifications cannot be accepted via Edexcel Online and will need to be submitted using a form available on this employers and training providers approval page.

When is it done?

• Centre approval must be gained first.
• Qualification approval must be gained before delivery and assessment of any BTEC programme.
• Qualification approvals are for a limited number of years. You can check through Edexcel Online when programmes will expire.

Who is responsible?

• The Head of Centre is responsible for ensuring that the declaration, made when approval is applied for, is read and understood. This declares that the centre has in place all necessary resources and quality assurance policies and procedures.
• The person with read/write access to Edexcel Online (usually your Exams Officer) normally submits online approval requests.

Where can I find out more?

• Visit the BTEC approvals page for advice on BTEC approval processes, or contact your Regional Office.