The world of qualifications can feel complex – but understanding it is key to building the skilled workforce your business needs. Whether you’re hiring new talent, offering training or planning for the future, knowing how different routes develop skills will help you make informed decisions.
Qualifications can show that someone has the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed to perform in a job. They’re built around occupational standards – created by groups of employers – so you can trust they reflect real workplace needs.
There are different types of qualifications, delivered in different ways, but all aim to get people job-ready at different levels.
Understanding Qualification Levels
| Level | Example Qualifications | What It Means |
| Entry–1 | Entry Level Certificates | Basic knowledge and skills |
| 2 | GCSEs (grades 4–9), Level 2 Apprenticeship | Good foundation in core subjects or job skills |
| 3 | A Levels, T Levels, BTECs, Advanced Apprenticeship | Advanced knowledge and practical application, often a route into work or HE |
| 4–5 | Higher Technical Education, including HNC/Ds, Foundation Degrees, Higher Apprenticeships Some HNC/Ds, Foundation Degrees and Diplomas of Education are also recognised as Higher Technical Qualifications – which means they are aligned to an occupational standard | Technical or professional skills for specialist roles |
| 6 | Bachelor’s Degree, Degree Apprenticeship | In-depth subject knowledge and applied skills |
| 7+ | Master’s Degree, Postgraduate Qualifications | High-level strategic and specialised knowledge |
Key Skills-Focused Training Routes
Apprenticeships
A job with structured training. Apprentices work while learning, gaining the exact skills needed for their role – based on employer-defined standards. Apprenticeships are available from Level 2 up to Degree Level.
T Levels
A technical qualification for 16–19-year-olds. These two-year courses combine classroom learning with an extended industry placement (45 days for most subjects), ensuring students gain both knowledge and real-world experience. Designed with employers, T Levels focus on practical, job-ready skills.
Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs)
HTQs are Level 4 and 5 qualifications designed to equip learners with specialist technical skills aligned to employer needs. They sit between A Levels/T Levels (Level 3) and Bachelor’s Degrees (Level 6), offering a practical, career-focused alternative to traditional academic routes.
Key Features:
Employer-Approved: Developed in collaboration with industry to meet current and emerging workforce demands.
Flexible Delivery: Available full-time, part-time, and via distance learning.
Duration: Typically 1–2 years depending on the course.
Qualification Types: Includes HNCs, HNDs, Foundation Degrees, and Diplomas of Higher Education.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Whether you want to recruit skilled talent, shape course content, offer placements, or invest in staff training – we can help you navigate the education and skills system.