Entitlement Framework Programme (14-16)
Occupational Studies
Occupational Studies is a new and very different type of qualification for Year 11 & Year 12 students. This innovative qualification is targeted at learners working towards and at Level 1 and 2.
The world of work is constantly changing. It is increasingly unlikely that a single occupation will take employees from the beginning to the end of their working lives therefore transferability and adaptability are important skills.
There are 6 different occupational areas within Occupational Studies which include:
- Design and Creativity
- Technology and Innovation
- Construction
- Business and Services
- Environment and Society; and
- Engineering and Engineering Services
This qualification has been designed to provide a more ‘hands- on’ approach to learning. It focuses on a particular kind of knowledge, understanding and skills providing the potential for learning with an emphasis on practical activities. The award students achieve is based on coursework assessment; therefore there is no exam element to this qualification.
The qualification is approved by the Department of Education for teaching at Key Stage 4 in
Levels
- a Level 2 in an Occupational Studies award is at the same level as a GCSE A* to C;
- a Level 1 in an Occupational Studies award is at the same level as a GCSE D to G;
- achievement below Level 1 is also recognised by CCEA as First Skills 1, 2 & 3 which equates to Entry Level
Students complete ONE Single Award each year. A single award is achieved by selecting TWO Units from the Occupational Areas; for example: Plumbing 1 & Plumbing 2 OR Facial Skincare & Manicure.
Occupational Studies will;
- enable progression to other courses, particularly NVQ’s and to training and employment
- will help raise levels of achievement as students will be more motivated towards
BTEC Level 2 Provision
What are BTEC Qualifications
BTECs are work related qualifications suitable for a wide range of students, built to accommodate the needs of employers and allow progression to university.They provide a more practical, real-world approach to learning alongside a key theoretical background.They can be taken as well as, or in place of, A levels in schools and colleges. BTECs are recognised by schools, colleges, universities, employers and professional bodies across the United Kingdom and in over 100 countries worldwide.
How are BTEC's assessed?
BTECs are not exam-based qualifications. Exams work well for some students but others find them rather daunting and struggle to see how they fit into the real world of work. Instead, students study real-life, work-based case studies and complete projects and assessments, which contribute to achieving each unit studied.
Each BTEC is made up of units. The number of units is dependent on the level and size of BTEC being studied (eg BTEC Level 2 Certificates/Extended Certificates).
In order to complete each unit, students must achieve against a set of outcomes. The assessment criteria address theory with practical exercises. The assessment process is ongoing, so it allows the student to analyse and improve their own performance through their course in much the same way as they would in a real workplace.
The projects that students undertake form the basis of their unit results which are graded as a Pass, a Merit, Distinction or Distinction*.
Progression
BTEC Level 2 Certificates/Extended Certificates allow students to progress to Level 3 study (BTEC/'A' Levels), or to start their career in a certain industry. They allow the student flexibility and choice in what they choose to do.
BTEC Level 2 Courses Available:-
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Agriculture*
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Construction*
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Engineering*
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Children's Care Learning and Development*
-
Hospitality*
*1 year course, 1 day per week -Equivalent to 2 GCSE Grades *A-C (over one year)
Further information
If you would like any further course information, please contact:
Emma McCarney (EF Co-ordinator) at