What are my options after GCSEs or National 5s?
After GCSEs or National 5s, you could continue studying subjects you like, take vocational qualifications, an apprenticeship, or work or volunteer and study part-time.
Facts about NVQs: what's involved in studying them, how they are assessed and how long they take to complete.
NVQ stands for national vocational qualification. Each one includes practical work-related tasks. They're available in more than 1,000 subjects ranging from plumbing to hairdressing.
NVQs can be based in a college, school, or workplace.
NVQs test your abilities in the workplace. You'll complete training and the following assessment to prove you can do certain work-related tasks:
The levels you'll be expected to reach are based on national standards for the particular job you want to do. Assessors sign off units when you've met these standards.