Level 2 Courses
Level 2 courses are a great option if you're ready to build on your existing qualifications, develop specialist skills, or prepare for further study, training or employment.
Level 2qualifications are broadly equivalent to GCSE grades 4-9.
Most Level 2 courses can help you progress to Level 3 qualifications such as A levels, T Levels, BTEC Nationals, Apprenticeships and other vocational or technical programmes.
Is a Level 2 course right for me?
If you:
- Want to develop your skills and knowledge in a particular subject area
- Enjoy a mix of practical and classroom-based learning
- Have achieved some qualifications and are ready for the next level
- Are interested in a specific career pathway
- Want to gain qualifications recognised by employers and education providers
- Are planning to progress to Level 3 study, an apprenticeship or employment
then a Level 2 course could be right for you.
Find out more
Level 2 courses are available across a wide range of subject areas, including:
- Construction and the built environment
- Engineering and manufacturing
- Motor vehicle maintenance
- Hair and beauty
- Health and social care
- Childcare and early years
- Hospitality and catering
- Business and administration
- Sport and fitness
- Art and design
- Media and creative industries
- Animal care
- Agriculture and land-based studies
- Digital, IT and computing
- Public services
- Travel and tourism
Many courses combine classroom learning with practical activities, helping you develop skills that are directly relevant to the workplace.
Level 2 courses are available at further education colleges including:-
- College of West Anglia
- City College Norwich
- Easton College
- East Coast College
They are also available at other providers including:-
- Access Creative College
- East Norfolk Sixth Form College
- University Technical College Norfolk
- Lowestoft Sixth Form College
- Paston College
- MPCT Norwich
You may also find that some sixth forms will offer some Level 2 courses, such as:
- Springwood Sixth Form
- Attleborough Academy
- Sheringham Sixth Form Centre
You can check out what's available in the Courses & Apprenticeships section.
Entry requirements vary depending on the course and provider, but you will usually need:
- A Level 1 qualification in a related subject and/or
- GCSEs at grades 3 or above
- A positive attitude towards learning and attendance
Many providers will also invite applicants to an interview to discuss their interests, achievements and future plans.
Assessment methods vary but may include:
- Practical assessments
- Coursework and assignments
- Portfolios of evidence
- Presentations and projects
- Knowledge tests and examinations
- Work-based assessments
Many vocational qualifications combine both practical and theoretical assessments toe make sure that learners can demonstrate both knowledge and skills.
Check the assessment methods used for any course(s) that you are interested in so you understand what's expected.
Depending on the course, you may achieve qualifications such as:
- GCSEs at grades 4-9
- BTEC Level 2 First Awards, Certificates or Diplomas
- OCR Cambridge Nationals
- NCFE Level 2 Certificates and Diplomas
- City & Guilds Level 2 Qualifications
- UAL Level 2 Creative Media and Art Qualifications
- Technical and Vocational Qualifications
- Functional Skills English and Maths Level 2
The qualification awarded will depend on the course and awarding organisation.