Explore & Discover

BTEC Level 1 Introductory Diploma in Vocational Studies designed around practical skills and tasks that place an emphasis on learners demonstrating what they can do rather than what they know in theory.

The qualifications give learners the opportunity to acquire and develop generic, transferable and sector-specific skills in order to complete tasks and demonstrate a level of achievement that enables them to progress to further learning. The purpose of the qualification is to develop the transferable skills, attributes and behaviours needed for learners to progress to further study and ultimately to employment. The study programme is designed to be delivered in an applied way, bringing together appropriate content with practical and technical skills.

As a Level 1 qualification, the pass standard requires learners to complete routine, simple and directed tasks by applying their knowledge and skills. It is expected that learners complete tasks fully under supervision, direction or with guidance. We intend for every learner to have the opportunity to develop key transferable skills through their study programme. It will help learners to appreciate how the transferable skills they develop in their core units can be contextualised in the sector they are studying. On completion of the course, learners will have developed a set of transferable and sector skills that will benefit them whatever their chosen progression route.

The Diploma provides learners the opportunity to study a broader range of units from different sectors within the study programme, select 3 subjects from below, one per term:

• Hair and Beauty
• Sport
• Hospitality
• Woodwork
• Art and Design
• Childcare
• Health and Social care
• IT and Business

The vocational areas selected provide a coherent programme that enable learners to explore sectors that interest them whilst developing an understanding of the connections between vocational sectors.

For example:

• Learners can apply I.T skills in to another sector context
• Learners can combine skills in business with specialist skills in the context of being self-employed
• Learners may explore a range of creative disciplines such as how art is used in media

This diploma is designed to be taken over one year, as a substantial vocational qualification within a study programme.

In each subject area, the learner will study towards two units of study introducing each sector area. Alongside the vocational units, students will study:

• Being Organised
• Developing a Personal Progression Plan
• Working with Others
• Researching a Topic

Pearson BTEC Level 1 Introductory in Vocational Studies

These qualifications prepare learners for further learning at a higher level across a range of sectors. The development of transferable skills means that learners can also choose a study programme from alternative sectors. For example, these qualifications in Vocational Studies could lead to professional Level 2 qualifications, Traineeships or apprenticeships

Assessments designed to fit the purpose and objective of the qualification and all units will be internally assessed – giving learners the opportunity to demonstrate skills developed in applied scenarios. All units are graded Pass, Merit or Distinction to encourage skills development and performance. These study programme consist of two types of unit.

Group A units are the core skills units, they cover content designed to reflect the skills and behaviours needed to progress to further study. All units in the study programme are internally assessed.

A wide variety of assessment is used providing learners with opportunities to:

• Carry out practical tasks
• Present information that they have gathered
• Keep working logbooks, records and reflective journals
• Practise English and mathematical skills
• Take part in oral or written presentations
• Take part in role-play, interviews and other activities.

Students participate in a one-hour session on a weekly basis with their progress coach. This is an opportunity for students to use their learner voice and have their say on experiences in college. Topics covered include British Values, Prevent, Online safety, Resilience and Employability. Students develop essential communication and social skills through active discussions, debates and activities. Learners are encouraged to develop and build on employability skills by completing self-assessments and personal statements and supported with work experience placements.

No formal entry requirements. Suitability is based on a 1:1 interview.

All students sit an initial assessment and diagnostic test carried out through BKSB to establish the most appropriate level of study.  Students work towards Functional Skills or GCSE maths and English.  Embedded and integrated into all lessons is English and maths to deepen knowledge in a vocational and life skill context.