Guided Learning Hours represent the time learners spend under direct supervision.
The number of units that a learner is required to complete.
| Course Name | Description | Guided Learning Hours | Number of units |
|---|---|---|---|
| National Certificate | This course spans 180 guided learning hours (equivalent to 235 total qualification time). It's half the size of an A Level and comprises two units, both mandatory. One unit is externally assessed, covering 100% of mandatory content, with the assessment accounting for 50% of the final grade. | 180 hours (0.5 A levels) | 2 |
| National Extended Certificate | This course encompasses 360 guided learning hours (equivalent to 465 total qualification time), equal to one A Level. It comprises four units, with three being mandatory and two externally assessed. Mandatory content constitutes 83%, with external assessment contributing 58% to the final grade. | 360 hours (1 A level) | 4 |
| National Foundation Diploma | This course spans 510 guided learning hours (equivalent to 670 total qualification time), akin to 1.5 A Levels. It consists of six units, with four being mandatory and two externally assessed. Mandatory content constitutes 76%, with external assessment accounting for 41% of the final grade. | 510 hours (1.5 A Levels) | 6 |
| National Diploma | This course encompasses 720 guided learning hours (equivalent to 960 total qualification time), equivalent to two A Levels. It comprises eight units, with six being mandatory and three externally assessed. Mandatory content constitutes 83%, with external assessment contributing 46% to the final grade. | 720 hours (2 A Levels) | 8 |
| National Extended Diploma | This course spans 1080 guided learning hours (equivalent to 1435 total qualification time), matching the size of three A Levels. It consists of thirteen units, with seven being mandatory and four externally assessed. Mandatory content constitutes 67%, with external assessment accounting for 42% of the final grade. | 1080 hours (3 A Levels) | 13 |