Which Course
Eastleigh College offers a wide range of vocational courses that provide students with practical, real work experiences and prepare them for higher education or employment in their chosen area.
What is a vocational course?
A course, which prepares students for a particular career by developing a wide range of skills valued by employers and universities. A vocational course will help to apply knowledge and skills to practical real-life activities and situations, so learning is about "doing" as well as "thinking".
Students can study both through our real and specialist work areas and work placements within a broad career area or a specific occupation. For example, the BTEC National Certificate in Hospitality Supervision enables students to develop a broad range of skills leading to employment in the industry, but an NVQ in Professional Catering provides a more focused training for employment as a Chef.
BTEC First Diplomas & National Certificates & Diplomas
BTEC Diploma courses are available in a range of subjects at levels to suit the individual. The First Diploma offers an introduction to the subject at intermediate level, while National Certificates and Diplomas are advanced qualifications, which are equivalent to 2 and 3 A Levels respectively. Progression from the First to National Certificate or Diploma is available. The National Certificate or Diploma offers an excellent preparation for employment or entry into higher education.
What qualifications do I need?
Eastleigh College offers courses at a number of levels, so whatever qualifications you have gained, we will be able to guide you to the right course. We will provide an initial test for Key Skills, which establishes how far you have already developed, and how we can best support you in your studies, working at the appropriate level for you.
What if I want to study more than one course?
You can choose from a range of extra options, including GCSEs or subjects with wide application such as Health and Safety, Deaf Awareness and Counselling. Individual options will be discussed at interview.
What are the progression opportunities?
Progression can be made through courses available at the college, depending on the level you start at and the goal you wish to achieve. Many students who start with us on intermediate courses progress on to advanced levels and are then able to progress onto higher education. Courses that concentrate on specific careers will lead you into employment or further training. Broader vocational courses at advanced level will allow you to progress into employment, further training or university.
Key Skills
All students will work towards gaining the valuable Key Skills of Communication, Application of Number and Information Technology. An independent qualification, Key Skills can be studied at a level between 1-5, enabling you to concentrate on your strengths and choose the level appropriate to your needs. As well as providing you with valuable skills for employment, you will also be awarded additional UCAS points for university entry. The number of points awarded is dependent on the Key Skills level achieved in each subject.
