With their focus on practical, skills-based learning, BTEC courses are designed around a number of themed units. Rather than testing everything together at the end of the course, BTECs give students the opportunity to show what they’ve learned in each unit, and build on their achievements as they progress through the course. That means there are plenty of chances to learn, improve and succeed.
Once you’re ready to put what you’ve learned into practice, BTEC tests - called “assessments” – are based around real-life work contexts and scenarios, and can include:
Assignments: Set and marked by the teacher or tutor, assignments involve a series of tasks designed around a work-related, real-life scenario. They give students the chance to build knowledge and skills over time and deliver a complete, integrated project using a combination of knowledge, skills and behaviors. Some BTECs are assessed completely through assignments, while the newer BTEC courses can include some units which are assessed through set tasks or tests. You’ll get a grade for each unit - Pass, Merit or Distinction - so you can see how you’re progressing throughout the course.
Set tasks, performances or written tests: For selected units in some of the newer BTEC courses, students also take practical assessments set and marked by Pearson. These tests are either based around a real-life task completed in a specified time or practically focused written tests.
Your final qualification grade will also be awarded on the Pass, Merit and Distinction scale, and your exact grades will vary depending on the course.