Gold Standard (Choosing A-Levels in general)

Member Name: kimm

Product:	Choosing A-Levels in general
Date:	31/08/01 (54 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Respected, easier to get into university

Disadvantages: Hard work, possibility of low grades

The A'Level route to university is the best route. They now offer courses like GNVQs, but these are still not considered as good as the traditional A'Level. In times of high competition for places, they're more likely to take someone with A'Levels than someone with a GNVQ in vocational subjects such as Health and Social Care.

I have taught both GNVQ and A'Level Business Studies and the GNVQ is constantly changing, both in the way that it is taught and the work that students have to do. It can be confusing and time-consuming for teachers and students. It is also alot more subjective than the A'Level which is mainly exam based and externally marked. As the GNVQ is a relatively new qualification, there is not going to be as much respect for it as an A'Level. From a teacher's perspective, I found that some students thought that it would be an easy option.

If you seriously want to go to university, the A'level is the best option. If you want to continue a vocational subject further as you would like to use it in your career, I would recommend the GNVQ and getting some on the job work experience. Getting into university is possible with the GNVQ but probably harder as the A'level is still seen by many as the gold standard.

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