College of Business and Development Studies offers a range of courses offering different qualifications and study levels such as Apprenticeships, NVQs, BTECs and Diploma’s. Choosing a course can be difficult; however here at CBDS there is plenty of support and guidance available to help you make the right decision.


Study levels


Most courses are split into ‘levels’ (eg: Level 1, Level 2). These levels range from Entry Level up to Level 8.


The level best for you will depend on any existing qualifications and experience. In most cases, you will need to have a Level 2 qualification in a relevant subject to join a Level 3 course, a Level 1 qualification to join a Level 2 course and so on.


Further Education courses, including Apprenticeships, A-levels and BTECs, are part of the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) and are broken down into:

  • – Entry Level courses
  • – Level 1 courses
  • – Level 2 courses
  • – Level 3 courses

Higher Education courses are typically classed at between Level 4 and Level 6. Vocational courses are part of the new Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF) and available from Entry Level to Level 8.


Apprenticeships


Apprenticeships are designed to give young people valuable qualifications, vital work experience – and a salary while studying.


Apprenticeships at CBDS College are available in a range of subjects including business, customer service, health and social care and hospitality.


Apprenticeships are available at Level 2, Level 3 and Level 4 as an Apprenticeship, an Advanced Apprentice or a Higher Apprenticeship.


More information on Apprenticeships [link to apprenticeship home page]


Foundation Degrees


Foundation Degrees are university-level qualifications designed to give you the skills needed to work in a particular industry.


Learning is usually split between the workplace and traditional College-based lectures and lessons.


Foundation Degrees can provide a route into higher education, give your career prospects a boost or help with a career change. Part-time and full-time courses are usually available, with Foundation Degrees classed as Level 5 qualifications.


More information on Foundation Degrees [link to Higher Education home page]


Functional Skills


Functional Skills are practical skills in English, maths and ICT – usually completed as part of another qualification such as an Apprenticeship or Diploma.


These new qualifications are a great way to boost the skills needed for further study or in the workplace.


Functional Skills are available from Entry Level to Level 2.


HNCs and HNDs


HNCs (Higher National Certificates) and HNDs (Higher National Diplomas) are Level 4 and Level 5 higher education qualifications.


Although university-level courses, HNCs and HNDs are designed to give leaners the skills needed to work in a certain industry.


Both can be studied full-time or part-time. HNCs typically take two years to complete part time, while a part-time HND can take between four and five years to complete.


HNCs and HNDs can take you straight into employment or lead on to a Bachelors degree.


More information on HNCs and HNDs [link to Higher Education home page]


NVQs


NVQs or National Vocational Qualifications are work-based qualifications designed to help you develop the skills and knowledge to do a particular job well.


NVQs can be taken on their own or as part of an Apprenticeship. Level 1, 2 and 3 NVQ courses are available at CBDS.


Vocational qualifications


Vocational qualifications often shortened to VQs or vocationally related qualifications (VRQs) are designed to give you work-based skills employers are looking for.


There are various types of vocational qualifications available from Entry Level to Level 8. The three main categories of VRQs are:
Awards, Certificates and Diplomas – these flexible qualifications can be taken on their own or as part of an Apprenticeship. Level 2 Awards, Certificates and Diplomas are equivalent to GCSEs at A*-C, while Level 3 qualifications are equivalent to A-levels.


BTECs – BTECs are available at Entry Level, Level 1, Level2 and Level 3 in a number of subject areas.

BTECs can vary from subject to subject, with some assessed via a portfolio of work and others calling for project work, assignments, written tests and coursework.


National Awards and Certificates – These qualifications can be taken at Level 1, Level 2 or Level 3 and are purely practical courses based around gaining work-related skills.

Update Fees and Finance with following options:


Under 19?


If you are under 19, your education is free so you don’t have to pay any fees for your course. To help with the costs of travel, books, trips and more see below.


Learner Support Fund


If you live in a household with low income or on benefits, you may be eligible to apply for Learner Support Fund. This can help with expenses such as childcare, equipment and enrichment (trips etc.)


Bonus Scheme


There is a bonus scheme available for students, based on good attendance, progress and behaviour.


Vulnerable Persons Bursary Scheme


This scheme financially supports young learners who face the greatest barriers to learning.  If you are under 19 and:

  • – Live independently AND are in receipt of income support
  • – Are under the care of social services or are care leavers
  • – Are claiming DLA and ESA


Then you may be entitled to Vulnerable Persons Bursary Scheme.


Childcare – Care to Learn


If you are under 20 when you begin your studies and use registered childcare you may be able to get assistance with childcare costs from Care to Learn (Please note external funding is subject to change). Care to Learn can be contacted on 0800 121 8989.


If you are over 20, are in receipt of benefits or on a low income, then you may be entitled to financial help with childcare fees. Student services will tell you more.


Other financial support


There may be other funds to help you with travel, childcare and hardship dependent on eligibility.


For example:

  • – Career Development Loans
  • – Student finance for higher education [expected May 2013]
  • – Care to Learn (under 20 years)
  • – FE Loans (expected March 2012)


Higher education students


If you are on a higher education course such as a foundation degree, HND or HNC, you cannot access the same funding as other students at the college but there is still information, advice and support available. If you have problems with Student Loans or need to apply to the Access to Learning Fund (ALF) for extra money please contact student services team.


Careers advisers can also help you to consider progression into employment and study after your course.


National Express Bursaries


If you are aged 16-18 and studying full time, you may be able to apply to the National Express Bursaries Fund for help with things like:

  • – Travel
  • – Purchase of books and additional equipment not covered by the discretionary learners support fund
  • – IT and internet connections
  • – General living costs associated with being in education


For an application form, contact student services at the campus where you are studying.


For more information on all of the above schemes, our student services team will be able to help you on 0121 572 3961.