This is a rough guide to qualifications at different levels and the level of jobs you can enter. Remember if you complete qualifications at one level you can usually move on to the next.

Entry Level
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Level 4/5

Entry Level

• Qualifications at this level include CSE, DOVE and other entry level certificates
• Job Level – Un-skilled Worker – generally carries out supervised routine work requiring few skills

Level 1

• Also known as Foundation Level
• Qualifications at this level include NVQ level 1, GCSEs grades D-G, GCSEs in vocational subjects grades DD-GG, CACHE C
• Job Level – Semi-skilled Worker – generally carries out supervised routine work requiring a narrow range of skills

Level 2

• Also known as Intermediate Level
• Qualifications at this level include NVQ level 2, GCSEs grades A*-C, GCSEs in vocational subjects grades A*A*-CC, BTEC First Diploma, Welsh Baccalaureate (Intermediate), CACHE Certificate
• Job Level – Skilled Worker – generally carries out skilled work under supervision

Level 3

• Also known as Advanced Level
• Qualifications at this level include NVQ level 3, AS level and A level,  BTEC National Diploma, Welsh Baccalaureate (Advanced), International Baccalaureate, CACHE Diploma
• Job Level – Technician – skilled in a wide range of activities, can work on his or her own and can supervise others if required

Level 4 and Level 5

• Also known as Higher Level
• Qualifications at this level include NVQ level 4/5, HNC, HND, Degree, Professional qualifications
• Job Level
• High Level Technician – holds a responsible and highly skilled job, often works closely with professionals and may manage others
• Professional – has specialist knowledge and skills and manages others