OCR unveils new vocational qualifications scheme
Awarding body OCR has unveiled a new range of vocational qualifications to provide substantial and relevant skills to students over the age of 16 who wish to progress into employment or HE.
The Cambridge TECs will be offered as Level 2 and Level 3 qualifications in Business, IT, and Health and Social Care, for teaching by schools and colleges from September 2012. The subject range will soon be broadened with qualifications in Media, Art and Design, Science and Sport being the next in line.
According to OCR, they will aim to motivate students as well as reward their achievements through internal assessment and progressive grading from pass through to a starred distinction. There will also be a range of qualification sizes at each level including a 360 Guided Learning Hours Introductory Diploma, enabling the qualifications to fit a wide range of learning programmes. In addition to specialised knowledge, students will also gain practical skills by having the option to complete a work experience placement.
OCR chief executive Mark Dawe said: “Our vision has been to help teachers face the challenge of driving up standards in vocational education with industry-backed qualifications which prepare students to progress.
“We have also been mindful as we roll out these qualifications and the associated package of support that teachers are facing challenging economic times so we have kept costs to a minimum” he concluded.”
Apostolos Kostoulas
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