Tech-Levels explained

Our recent posts have highlighted the importance of skilled workers, and how receiving the right kind of training is beneficial not only to the individual, but to the businesses hiring these, and the industries they're working within. Today the BBC have reported the change to post-16 study, where a plan for an upgrade in  vocational study has been unveiled. The changes would mean that instead of the academic A-level route, students could choose a 'tech-level' - a practical, vocational equivalent. Skills Minister, Matthew Hancock,  believes that : "High-quality rigorous vocational education is essential to future prosperity and the life chances of millions." He also states that these improved courses will help students find apprenticeships and better jobs.

Tech-levels explained:

• AS level equivalent is AGQ (Applied General Qualification) broadly related to an industry, and is the same length. 
• Full course is as long as an A-Level course.
• Focused on practical, hands-on training.
• 'A Tech-level along with a core maths qualification, for example AS-level maths, and an extended project will amount to an over-arching Technical Baccalaureate, says the government.'
• for 16-19 year old school leavers. 

Courses will require backing from either Universities or Companies House registered employers to be given the go ahead.The CBI's (Confederation of British Industries) Neil Cranberry warned that the tech-levels would '"need to command respect across entire sectors" as to function successfully, and banish the somewhat negative reputation of current tech qualifications.
It is believed that schools previously favoured the academic route due to rankings in performance leagues, and so tech-levels will be introduced to these tables provided they are backed by at least 3 universities.

Source: BBC