Explore our Q&A section to learn more about our further education courses, including information on entry requirements, how you will learn and be assessed and the financial support available.
| Level | Example Qualifications | Typical Entry Requirement* | Equivalent To |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | No formal entry requirements. | No entry requirements | Below GCSE level |
| Level 1 | NVQs, Awards, Certificates and Diplomas | No formal entry requirements | GCSE grades D-G |
| Level 2 | NVQs, BTEC Awards, Certificates and Diplomas, Traineeships, Apprenticeships, GCSEs | Four GCSEs at Grade D-G or above | GCSE grades A*-C |
| Level 3 |
Apprenticeships, Subsidiary Diplomas, Foundation Diploma, National Foundation Diploma, Extended Diploma, National Extended Diploma, Advanced Technical Awards, Access to Higher Education |
Four GCSEs at Grade C or above |
|
An NI Traineeship helps you gain practical skills and experience to move into work or further training. You will combine classroom learning with real work placements and achieve a qualification valued by employers. It is the perfect first step if you are not yet ready or have not secured an employer for an apprenticeship but want to get career-ready.
With an Apprenticeships NI programme, you can earn while you learn. You will work for an employer, gain real hands-on experience, and complete a recognised qualification in your chosen trade or profession.
AdvancedTechs are new Level 3 (A-Level equivalent) vocational courses aimed at young people who have completed GCSEs. AdvancedTechs have been developed in collaboration with employers and businesses so that the content meets the needs of industry and prepares you for work, further training or study.
Explore our Q&A section to learn more about our further education courses, including information on entry requirements, how you will learn and be assessed and the financial support available.
The entrance requirements below identify the minimum qualifications required to apply for a course at Northern Regional College. This is only a guide, you should refer to the online prospectus for specific entry requirements for individual courses.
| Level | Entry Requirements | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Level 1 Diploma | No formal entry requirements. |
| 2 | Level 2 BTEC Diploma | 4 GCSEs Grade D-G or above, or equivalent. |
| 3 |
Level 3 BTEC 90 Credit Diploma/Subsidiary Diploma/Extended Diploma |
4 GCSEs Grade D-G or above, or equivalent. |
| 4 | Access to University | You must normally be 19 years of age or over at the date of entry to the course and provide evidence of basic competence in written, oral communication and numeracy skills. You must also undertake a short written assessment. |
Guest lectures from industry professionals or specialists
One-to-one sessions with your lecturer
Workshops
Case Studies
Direct learning
Independent study
Visits e.g. to museums and exhibitions or into industry
Productions
Design studio work
Laboratory work
Formal examinations
Practical exercises
Coursework
Online examinations
Written assignments
Reports
Essays
Case studies
Observation of skills
Real life industry projects
Presentations
Online Learning
We have invested heavily in a range of online services and computer equipment to provide you with a high-quality learning experience which will help you develop your digital skills.
We are continually refining, expanding and enhancing our online course delivery, offering the flexibility of studying parts of your course online and making sure that our resources are accessible to all learners. This means you can:
• View course materials and complete activities online 24/7.
• Learn in virtual classrooms and take part in discussion forums.
• Enhance and develop key digital skills.
• Balance study, work and family commitments.
Canvas
All our courses have online resources available on our Canvas virtual learning environment (VLE) which you can access on campus or at home. On Canvas, you can interact with your lecturers and other students, take part in quizzes and upload your assignments. You can even download the free app to study and receive notifications on the go!
As well as materials related to your course, you will find information on Student Services including Educational Support and Careers in the Student Hub on Canvas. Don’t forget to check out the Learning Hub for additional resources on study skills and how to use the IT facilities.
E-portfolios
Many courses at Northern Regional College, including most of our work-based learning programmes, are assessed through a portfolio of students’ work. You have access to electronic portfolio or e-portfolio systems, including City & Guilds’ Learning Assistant, which you can use to upload evidence of your work for review and assessment. E-portfolios allow you to:
• Easily upload evidence of your work including photographs and video content.
• Access your portfolio at any time, on-campus or at home.
• Keep track of your learning and get feedback from lecturers.
• Download the mobile app (for Learning Assistant) to upload evidence on the go.
Parents’ Guide
We are delighted that your son or daughter is considering taking their next step towards building on their education and developing their future career at Northern Regional College. At the College we offer an adult environment where students are empowered to take control of their education and career aspirations. Your son or daughter will have access to a broader range of subjects than ever before, giving them the chance to study what they’re passionate about on a learning programme that will work for them.
With access to a wide range of subjects, students can pursue their passions through tailored learning programmes that blend academic knowledge with practical experience. Our courses include input from industry professionals and valuable work placement opportunities to enhance employability and future career prospects.
While we promote independent learning and self-management, students are supported every step of the way through our comprehensive support network, which includes pastoral care, financial guidance, and careers advice. We aim to ensure a smooth transition into college life and provide a strong foundation for university or employment.
No Uniform
Students are not required to wear a uniform, helping to foster a more relaxed and mature environment.
Timetable
Course timetables vary, however students typically attend four days per week (Monday to Friday) starting at 9.00 am. Some courses may run until 5.00 pm. Our flexible timetable approach encourages independent study and self-motivation, helping students prepare for university or the workplace.
Excellent Quality of Teaching and Learning
Many of our lecturers are active industry professionals who bring current, real-world experience and expertise into the classroom.
Modern Equipment and Facilities
Courses are delivered using modern equipment and industry-standard facilities, ensuring students train in environments that mirror real workplace settings.
Work-Based Learning
Our courses are designed with employers in mind, incorporating work placements and hands-on projects that develop practical, job-ready skills.
Clear Progression Pathways
We offer qualifications from Level 1 through to Level 6 (Higher Education), allowing students to advance within their chosen subject or explore new areas without having to leave the College.
Strong Industry Connections
The College has excellent links with local, national and international employers who provide valuable placement opportunities, guest lectures and site visits
It’s a common misconception that A Levels are the only route to university or a successful career. In fact, Level 3 BTEC Extended Diplomas offer an excellent alternative, equivalent to three A Levels.
Key Differences:
• Career-Focused: BTECs are aligned with industry needs, equipping students with specific skills for direct employment or further study in their chosen field.
• Subject Depth: Students focus on one subject area, typically completing 16–18 modules over the duration of the course.
• Assessment Style: BTECs are mainly assessed through assignments and practical projects, unlike A-Levels which rely entirely on final exams.
It’s a common misconception that A Levels are the only route to university or a successful career. In fact, Level 3 BTEC Extended Diplomas offer an excellent alternative, equivalent to three A Levels.
Key Differences:
• Career-Focused: BTECs are aligned with industry needs, equipping students with specific skills for
direct employment or further study in their chosen field.
• Subject Depth: Students focus on one subject area, typically completing 16–18 modules over the
duration of the course.
• Assessment Style: BTECs are mainly assessed through assignments and practical projects, unlike
A-Levels which rely entirely on final exams.
98% of UK universities accept BTEC qualifications (Pearson Nov 2023)
Over 100,000 BTEC students entered university (UCAS Data 2021)
Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA)
Available to students aged 16–19 (at the start of the academic year), EMA is means-tested and provides £30 per week, paid fortnightly, to support the cost of continuing education.
Free Meals
Students aged 18 or under on 31 July (of the commencing academic year), whose parent(s) receive qualifying benefits, may be eligible for free meals. Meal tickets are issued weekly and can be used in the College canteen.
Travel Pass
Students aged 18 or under on 1 July (of the academic year) and enrolled on a full-time Further Education course may apply for a free travel pass (not means-tested). This allows free travel to and from College. Other criteria and age restrictions may apply.
From 25 August, all applications must be submitted online via the Education Authority (EA) website. Please read eligibility criteria carefully prior to completion of the form.
Note: Students on the Apprenticeship programmes are not eligible for a travel pass.
Student Handbook
For more information on College life, student services, safeguarding, support structures, and general expectations, we encourage you to read our Student Handbook available online.
Jargon Buster
Browse our jargon buster to find out more about the common terms and phrases used in Further Education (FE).
The lecturers at the College are great and have an open-minded and individual approach to their students. They helped me realise that, even though I had left school 20 years ago, I could still do it.
Level 4 HNC Modern Methods of Construction
I chose the Level 3 course after attending an open night, where I spoke to lecturers about the different career paths available. I was finishing Year 12 and wasn’t totally set on returning to sixth form. The course opened my eyes to a new direction.
Level 3 Construction and the Built Environment
Level 4 Healthcare Practice
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