Guide To Courses

With so many different courses and different types of course on offer, you may be unsure as to exactly which one to go for, or even which level. This page gives an explanation of the different courses and qualifications that you will find at Carlisle College. More information on progression through the different course levels is found in the 'Downloads' section at the right of the page.

You can apply for courses online, or alternatively please download the application form from the 'Downloads' section on the right of the page.

Entry Level Programmes

Ideal for a fresh start – opportunity to get ready for work or into learning. You will get a lot of support and assistance, for adults returning to study or for young people who may not achieve traditional qualifications and are not quite ready to tackle Level 1 qualifications. These programmes allow you to move onto Level 1 courses, to brush up on your study skills and to increase your confidence.

GCSEs

Traditional qualifications often taken at school.

National Vocational Qualification
(NVQ - Levels 1-4)

Work-related qualifications, designed to further your skills in a specific career. NVQs assess your ability to perform a variety of tasks in the workplace.

BTEC Introductory Certificate/Diploma

These are Level 1 qualifications which offer learners an initial step into vocationally-related education and an important progression route from Entry and other Level 1 qualifications onto Level 2 and/or into work.

BTEC First Diploma

This is a Level 2 course that is perfect if you know what subject you want to study. It is equivalent to four GCSEs gives you the skills to move into work or onto an Advanced (Level 3) course.

BTEC National Diploma

Equivalent to three A levels made up of 18 units at Level 3.

Advanced Vocational Certificate in Education (AVCE)

Level 3 qualification equivalent to two A Levels, adding practical skills to your knowledge.  Great preparation for employment or university entry qualification.

Access to HE (HEFC)

Level 3 qualification for students  who want to prepare for Higher Education study.

Higher National Certificates/Diplomas (HNC/HNDs)

Vocationally based Higher Education qualifications that provide skills and career based knowledge.

Foundation Degrees

Equivalent to the first 2 years of a full-time Honors Degree they focus on promoting work based learning skills plus academic knowledge to allow progression to an Honors Degree.

Functional Skills

Functional Skills will replace Key Skills at Carlisle College in September 2009.  All full time learners will work towards English, Mathematics and ICT as part of their wider curriculum at a level appropriate to their ability and course of study.