For a lot of people, Level 1 is their first interaction with education qualifications. Level 1 is often, but not always achieved in years 10 and 11 of secondary education, around the time someone is 15-16.
Level 1 is the perfect place to begin with when approaching a new subject - it often helps people gain a basic understanding of a new subject, which they can then build on if desired to develop their skills.
There are a few qualifications that are associated with Level 1. These include:
Once you have completed one or more of these, you’ll be able to proceed to Level 2.
Level 2 is the immediate step up from Level 1 qualifications and can be achieved around the same time.
This level builds on the understanding and skills learned in Level 1, and will develop them further. Those with a Level 2 qualification will have a good general amount of subject knowledge and will provide you with good skills with which to progress.
Typically, Level 2 is the minimum level that most employers will ask for when hiring for a role, but for some qualified healthcare professions, you will need to explore further levels to be suitable for the position.
There are a few qualifications that are associated with Level 2. These include:
Once you have completed one or more of these, you’ll be able to proceed to Level 3.
Level 3 is the next step in educational qualifications, and typically shows a greater knowledge of a subject. Level 3 is often achieved in years 12 and 13 or completed in further education settings such as colleges.
This level is typically undertaken by students who wish to continue their education, or are wanting to gain particular qualifications to specialise in a subject. Completing a Level 3 course will allow you access to additional jobs, or higher education opportunities such as a university or degree-level qualification.
There are a few qualifications that are associated with Level 3. These include:
Once you have completed one or more of these, you’ll be able to proceed to Level 4 if you wish to further specialise.
Level 4 is the stage of a higher level of learning than completed at secondary education. Typically, completing a Level 4 qualification shows that you have a greater understanding of a subject, and can help provide qualifications to people looking for particular entry routes into a career, whether that is progression to the next level or admission to a particular training opportunity.
This level is typically undertaken by students who wish to continue their education, or are wanting to gain particular qualifications to specialise in a subject. Completing a Level 4 course will allow you access to additional opportunities, or higher education opportunities such as a university or degree-level qualification.
There are a few qualifications that are associated with Level 3. These include: