BTECs are qualifications that offer something for everyone. Whether your next step is university or getting a job, a BTEC can help you get there. BTECs are graded with a focus on practical learning… so let’s find out more.
With their focus on practical, skills-based learning, BTEC courses are designed around a number of themed units.
Instead of testing everything together in a big exam at the end of the course, BTECs give students a chance to show what they’ve learned in each unit. This means you can build on your achievements as you progress through the course. You get plenty of opportunities to learn, grow and success – with no need to cram for a big final exam.
What happens on a BTEC course in terms of seeing how well you’re doing?
Once you’re ready to put what you’ve learned into practice, you will get BTEC tests called assessments. They are based around real-life work situations. These will give you a chance to see how you’re getting on in the course, and if you can put what you’ve learned into practice in a real-life situation.
How do BTEC assessments work?
BTEC assignments are set and marked by a teacher or tutor. They involve tasks which have been created around a real-life scenario.
Assignments give you the chance to build your knowledge and skills over time. When you’re ready, you will deliver a complete project using a combination of knowledge, skills and behaviours.
BTEC assessments:
- Give you regular feedback and insight into your progress, which helps you consider and improve your performance
- Help you develop independent study skills to support future learning (such as Higher Education or a degree)
- Develop your self-assessment skills and prepare you for a smooth start in the workplace doing something you are interested in
BTEC assignment grading
As we said earlier, BTEC courses feature a number of themed units.
You will get one of three grades for each unit:
- Pass
- Merit
- Distinction
These grades will help you see how your developing over time in the course.
Set tasks, performances or written tests
In some units in some of the newer BTEC courses, you may get a practical assessment which is set and marked by an awarding organisation called Pearson. These tests are either based around a real-life activity, which need to be completed in a set time, or they are written tests with a practical focus.
Final BTEC grading
Your final qualification grade will also be awarded with a Pass, Merit or Distinction.
You can find out more about the grading on any BTEC course you choose by looking at the individual course info. It will explain exactly what you learn on the course and how your work will be assessed.
This information was brought to you with support from Pearson, the UK’s BTEC Awarding Organisation.
