TechBac

Facts about the TechBAc: who they're for, what do I need to get in, where can I study one and what's involved, and what you can do afterwards.

The TechBac is a new work-related programme which helps you develop technical and professional skills. 

You study a hands-on technical qualification, recognised by employers like RSPCA, Microsoft, EDF and Samsung.

Alongside this you develop your professional and social skills through the TechBac Skills Zone, which includes:

  • practical work experience
  • team work
  • project learning
  • the opportunity to develop key workplace skills like enterprise and digital literacy

You’ll also have a chance to practise and demonstrate your skills in an online learning hub that can be used at home or in the classroom.


Who are they for?

If you’re aged 16 — 19 and want to study a professional programme while keeping your options open, the TechBac will help you develop the skills and experience needed, whatever your next step.

The TechBac is available at:

  • Level 2 for students aged 16 — 19
  • Level 3 for students aged 16 — 19

The qualifications within TechBac come in different sizes, so you could take other qualifications alongside them. You can currently study a TechBac in:

  • engineering
  • construction
  • early years 
  • land
  • digital 
  • automotive 

More industries will be added soon. 


How do they work?

The City & Guilds TechBac includes:

  • new style technical (vocational) qualification designed with employers, to give you the technical skills and knowledge needed for each industry area
  • project qualification, that demonstrates to universities and employers your independent study skills (UCAS points at Level 3)
  • work experience placement, sourced by your college, to prepare you for employment
  • workplace skills development with online tools to support you
  • annual team challenge where you will go head to head with your peers
  • access to an online CV where tutors can award open badges for you to showcase your achievements and share with employers

What grades do I need to study a TechBac?

The entry requirements vary, so talk to your local college to find out more.


What can I do next?

The TechBac is designed to keep your options open – if you want to go straight into a job or onto an apprenticeship, you’ll have the skills employers are looking for.

Or if you want to go to university, the qualifications within TechBac carry UCAS points at Level 3.


Where can I study a TechBac?

The TechBac programmes are only being offered by a limited number of colleges in England.  

Find out more on the Techbac website.