What can I study?

There are two ways you can learn with CAVC – choose a full-time course or opt for an Apprenticeship, the choice is yours.

1. Full Time Courses

This is the most popular way for 16-18 year olds to learn at CAVC, with around 5,000 people studying full-time courses each year!


You will usually study between 16–22 hours each week in college (not including work-related or other activities) and take 1–2 academic years to complete your qualification. Full-time courses are offered in all areas. They are also offered at different levels – Entry Level, Level 1, Level 2 or Level 3. Usually the level you do is based on the grades you get at GCSE. However, for very practical courses such as hairdressing, brickwork or bakery, everyone starts at Level 1.


When applying for a full-time course at CAVC you will only need to select the course you are interested in. The level you will study will be confirmed on enrolment and upon seeing your qualifications and results. We will work with you to ensure you are on the right level of study. Here is a quick overview of the different levels – the types of courses at each level and typical entry requirements for each:

LEVEL 3

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Includes full-time AS/A Levels or a career focused qualification such as BTEC or CACHE Extended Diploma – equivalent to 2-3 A Levels, but just in that one subject.

Most Level 3 courses carry UCAS points, so you can progress to university after successful completion. Level 3 courses develop in-depth knowledge and high level skills in a subject.

Entry requirements:

usually a minimum of 5 GCSEs grade A*–C, including English and Maths. 

LEVEL 2

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Includes career focused qualifications such as BTEC and CACHE Diploma or NVQ 2.

Level 2 courses develop a good overall knowledge of a subject. For many career areas this is the minimum level qualification required to work in a particular industry.

Entry requirements:

usually a minimum of 4 GCSEs grade D or above, ideally including English and Maths.

LEVEL 1

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Includes career focused qualifications such as NVQ 1.

These courses give an introduction to a subject, developing your practical skills and building your knowledge.

Entry requirements:

usually a minimum of 4 GCSEs grade E–G.

ENTRY LEVEL

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These courses provide an introduction to a subject.

They often involve additional support for those studying the course that helps your development.

Entry requirements:

no formal qualifications required.

Remember...

...the entry requirements shown are typical. However some courses vary so please check the course information sheet on the website for exact entry requirements.

For most courses there will also be additional entry criteria such as a successful interview, audition or skills test – all to ensure the course is right for you.

2. APPRENTICESHIPS

apprenticeship-graphicApprenticeships are a great way to train. Start a full-time job in the career area you wish to work in. Then work, earn and learn alongside this, coming into college usually for one day per week. Develop practical skills in your job and be assessed whilst working as well as in college. CAVC is one of the biggest providers of Apprenticeships and now has more Apprenticeships than ever before! Apprenticeships are run in most areas and are offered at different levels. To apply for an Apprenticeship you will need to find yourself Apprenticeship employment with an employer who is happy for you to come to college and undertake your Apprenticeship qualifications alongside work.