What qualifications does my child need?

Some careers may need qualifications, others may have direct entry into the job. If your child is looking for a career that needs GCSEs, a T Level or even an apprenticeship, helping your child in their studies will aid them on their journey towards their chosen career.

What are the different levels of qualifications available to young people?

Technical Education (TEs)

Key information:
TEs are practical qualifications for over 16s designed to help students get the skills they need to start their career or go on to higher levels of education. There are a few different types and levels of TEs including BTECs from Levels 1 - 7, Cambridge Nationals: Levels 1 and 2, Cambridge Technicals: Levels 2 and 3 and T Levels at Level 3.


To find out more, visit the National Careers Service website Technical Education pages.

Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs)

Key Information:
HTQs are technical qualifications for young people 18 or over, that are approved by employers. They are usually classroom based and there are many different types, including Higher National Diplomas, Higher National Certificates, Foundation Degrees and Higher Education Diplomas.


To find out more, visit the National Careers Service website HTQ pages.

A Levels

Key information:
A Levels are subject based qualifications usually studies over two years assessed by exams. They can lead to further study, training or work.

To find out more, visit the National Careers Service website A Level pages.

Higher Education (HE)

Key information:

HE is the name for qualifications and courses young people can take after 18. There are many different types including Diplomas, Bachelor degrees, Foundation degrees and foundation years, HTQs and Degree Level Apprenticeships.

To find out about more, visit the National Careers Service website HE pages.

Case study

James, aged 24

Starting an Anthropology Degree in Sept 2023

Jake was deregistered age 13 due to ME/CFS and Mental Health Issues. He describes school as not understanding or supporting his illness and levelling a large amount that made an untenable situation.

After a period of 3 years of being unable to do any education due to his health he gradually started to engage and forge a pathway. He studied for GCSE Maths through a part time college course and English through Learning Curve. Following that he did The Princes Trust Project which really helped him gain confidence. Through the project he was offered a job working with learning disabled adults. He found whilst he enjoyed working with the service users, the job eventually wasn’t the right fit for him long term.

However now having found confidence and more of an understanding where his strengths lay he loved the people aspect and has decided to pursue working with communities overseas, such as aid work. He has almost completed Access to University in Humanities and has several offers to study Anthropology in September.

Guidance