Entry Requirements

English Language Ability

Learners should have an appropriate standard of English to enable them to access relevant resources and complete the unit assignments.

For those whom English is not their first language we will follow the following proficiency in English language skills or an approved equivalent for this qualification: 

• IELTs 5.5
• Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) B2
• Cambridge English Advanced (CAE)162 or above
• Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic 42-49

Prior Learning (RPL) Policy

Mature learners may present a more varied profile of achievement that is likely to include relevant work experience (paid and/or unpaid) with levels of responsibility, participation and/or achievement of relevant professional qualifications. This may be used for recognition of prior learning (RPL).

Britannia College will also consider other evidence not necessarily derived from other qualifications, such as work, volunteering, other non-accredited courses. The process must include that evidence of prior learning must be provided by the learner and an assessor at the centre will assess it against the relevant units, learning outcomes and assessment criteria. The assessor will decide whether the work provides all or part evidence for the unit.

Level 3

For learners who have recently been in education or training the entry profile for level 3 qualifications is likely to include one of the following:

• 5 or more GCSEs at grades C and above or Grade 4 and above
• Other related level 2 subjects
• Other equivalent international qualifications

Level 4

For learners who have recently been in education or training the entry profile for level 4 qualifications is likely to include one of following:

• A GCE Advanced level profile with achievement in 2 or more subjects supported by 5 or more GCSEs at grades C and above
• Other related level 3 subjects
• An Access to Higher Education Certificate delivered by an approved further education institute and validated by an Access Validating Agency
• Other equivalent international qualifications

Level 5

For learners who have recently been in education or training the entry profile for level 5 qualifications is likely to include one of following:

• Prior study in related subjects at level 4 or above a level 4 qualification
• Other equivalent international qualifications

Level 6

For learners who have recently been in education or training the entry profile for level 6 qualifications is likely to include one of following:

• One- or two-years’ study of related qualifications at a Higher Education Institution or a college or university offering higher education qualifications
• A level 5 qualification in related subjects
• Other equivalent international qualifications.

Level 7

For learners who have recently been in education or training the entry profile for level 7 qualifications is likely to include one of following:

• A first degree in related subjects or a level 6 qualification for example
• other equivalent international qualifications.

A senior lecturer under the supervision of the Associate Dean (Academic) will review the prior qualifications and experience of each learner and consider whether they provide the necessary foundations to undertake the programme of study at the corresponding level. For learners with disabilities and specific needs, this review will need to take account of the support available to the learner during teaching and assessment of the qualification. Learners have the opportunity to build their achievements from a single unit into a full Diploma. There will be occasions where learners wish to claim recognition of prior learning which has not been formally assessed and accredited.