What are AVCE's?
The vocational A level, or Advanced Vocational Certificate of Education (AVCE), is the new name of the advanced General National Vocational Qualification (GNVQ). The qualification has been revised to make its assessment more rigorous and manageable for teachers and students. The qualification is available in three, six and 12 units.
Vocational A levels provide experiences and education relevant to working life but do not provide training for a specific job. Students develop the knowledge, skills and understanding relevant to a broad vocational area and often have experience of work within that area. Assessment is by coursework (a portfolio of work), which is internally assessed, and by external assessment. The internal component normally contributes two-thirds of the final marks and the external component one-third. Completed writings with format for college essays are needed too.
Acceptance
Universities, Colleges and Employers accept AVCEs on a par with AS and A2 Level qualifications
| AVCE |
'A' Levels |
| 3 Unit Award = |
1 GCE AS Level |
| 6 Unit Award = |
1 GCE A2 Level |
| 12 Unit Award = |
2 GCE A2 Levels |
Grading
As with AS and A2 Level grades are awarded from A - E.
Assessment
Assessment is based on portfolio work (internal assessment) and external assessments (tests, which are set and marked by the awarding body).
Internal Assessment
Internally assessed units are awarded on the completion of a 'substantial' assignment. This assignment is to be designed using specific guide-lines set out by the awarding body. An internal verifier will oversee the development and marking of all assignments.
Entry Requirements
It is desirable that students considering undertaking AVCE's must have at least 7 GCSE passes at grades A-C.
The nature of this qualification requires students to undertake independent study and project work.
AVCE Business Studies
The AVCE in Business Studies is an ideal qualification for those students who want a broad background in business which will allow them to progress to higher education, training or employment.
The AVCE will provide a suitable basis for further study in related subjects in Higher Education.
Requirements for 6 Unit Award
5 Compulsory Units + 1 Optional Unit
Requirements for 12 Unit Award
6 Compulsory Units + 6 Optional Units
AVCE Business Studies - Compulsory Units
- Unit 1 Business at Work
- Unit 2 The Competitive Business Environment - externally assessed
- Unit 3 Marketing
- Unit 4 Human Resources
- Unit 5 Finance - externally assessed
- Unit 6 Business Planning
Example
A sixth form student attending St Michael's may study:
a 12 Unit Award in Business Studies
or |
= 2 A2 Levels |
| a 6 Unit Award in ICT |
= 1 A2 Level |
| Total |
= 3 A2 Levels |
The Business Department in St Michael's offer students both 6 Unit and 12 Unit awards in Business Studies.
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