AirTrainingCorps

What is BTEC?

Put your passions into practice. Getting highly skilled in your favourite area of study means that you could end up with a number of widely recognised BTEC qualifications. It'll help you in the future when you're talking to possible employers. They should already be impressed that you've been a cadet, but BTECs will really show them what you're made of. We have a range of vocational qualifications available to you, through either ourselves or the Cadet Vocational Qualification Organisation (CVQO). Here's a quick overview:

Cadets have the option, when they turn 16, of obtaining their BTEC First Diploma in Public Services. This Diploma is equal to 4 GCSE passes (a pass is regarded as Grade A* to C), it is also equivilent to 4 Standard Grades (at levels 1 to 3) in Scotland.

The standard Cadet activities that count towards the qualification are:

Pass your 1st Class & Leading exams.

Take part in Adventure training activities.

Give a presentation of AT LEAST 5 minutes in length.

Attend an NCO course.

Not only do you have to do the academic studies and task outlined above, but you have to take part in a number of other cadet activities in order to complete the required modules, that include:

The Public Services

Public Service Skill

Public Service Fitness

Outdoor Activities & the Public Services

Land Navigation with Map & Compass

Expedition Skills

Grades of 'Pass','Merit' or 'Distinction' will be awarded for each unit and for the Diploma overall.

Finally, as well as all of that you will have to attend a wing run course in which the remaining tasks required for passing will be outlined. In 'real' terms, if you are an active cadet you are already doing AT LEAST 80% of what is required to get this!

The qualifications

BTEC Certificate in Aviation Studies (equivalent to 2 GCSEs, A-C grades)

Once you achieve the 'Staff Cadet Part 1' training syllabus you're automatically entitled to this qualification without any further work. And it's free to cadets.

BTEC Award in Aviation Studies (equivalent to 1 GCSE, A-C grade)

You're eligible for this once you've completed 'First Class' and 'Leading Cadet' training. There is a registration fee for this award.

BTEC First Diploma in Public Services (equivalent to 4 GCSEs, A-C grades)

This internationally respected qualification mixes theory and practical elements with an emphasis on leadership, teamwork, communications, problem solving and fitness. Improving your life skills, the syllabus includes professional CV preparation, interviewing techniques, communication, first aid, adventure training, health and nutrition. Most of the content is covered by activities you'll be doing normally, and you also complete an additional project and workbook. Plus, it's free to if you're between 16 and 19 years old!

BTEC First Diploma in Music (equivalent to 4 GCSEs, A-C grades)

This course helps you develop a basic understanding of music as a profession, and combines both technical skills with practical elements and research. By the time you finish, you'll have demonstrated an understanding of all aspects of performance, including solo and ensemble work and how to manage rehearsals. You'll also learn how to market, budget, advertise, programme and publicise a music event. You'll be expected to be able to play a musical instrument prior to enrolling n the course, but do not have to be able to read music. This award is also free if you're 16-19 years old.

ILM Certificate in Team Leading - Level 2

The ILM stands for Institute of Leadership and Management, who manage the course. It mixes theory and practical elements with an emphasis on leadership, teamwork and communications and is your first step to being a great manager or leader in the future - it's a valuable award recognised by employers as a real achievement. You have to have graduated from the ACO Junior Leaders Course to do it, but this award is free.

For more information about the BTEC qualifications, please speak to a member of Staff