Learners aged 16-19 years old who want to progress onto further or higher education can do so via a mixture of academic and alternative academic qualifications.
Our Mixed Programmes of Study provide learners with applied knowledge, skills and personal attributes they need to enter and thrive in higher education and meet the demands of future employment.
The BTEC Nationals 2025 perfectly complement A levels as part of a mixed programme of learning, helping to bring more theoretical learning to life. Depending on size, students can take these qualifications alongside one or two A levels, or alternatively as the substantial qualification in their study programme, where permitted.
Here is an example:
For routes into: | Vocational | Combined with A levels |
1 x AAQ | 2 x A levels | |
|
Applied Science |
Sociology |
Select a subject below to see further programmes of study.
For routes into: | Vocational | Combined with A levels |
1 x AAQ | 2 x A levels | |
|
Applied Science |
Sociology |
Complementary A level learning:
Those progressing to Nursing and Applied Sport and Exercise Science would have the prerequisite amount of science content in their study programme, taken alongside Sociology and Psychology as an example. For those who are considering teaching, this qualification provides a broad basis of scientific concepts, which could be combined with A levels such as English or Geography.
For routes into: | Vocational | Combined with A levels |
1 x AAQ | 2 x A levels | |
|
Computing |
Complementary A level learning:
Combined with STEM A levels this gives the blend of mathematical and theory knowledge to study Computing when reaching Higher Education. The maths content in number systems complements A level Maths and content on issues in Computing Projects that will complement content in Business. This content will allow for students to start relating their studies in computing into other subject areas.
For routes into: | Vocational | Combined with A levels |
1 x AAQ | 2 x A levels | |
|
Construction and Built Environment |
Complementary A level learning:
Maths: By calculating measurements, dimensions, algebra and differentiation to solve construction problems, calculating forces and loads on materials, enhancing mathematical techniques by applying them to solve problems in construction contexts.
Physics: The scientific understanding and mathematical techniques developed e.g properties of materials, calculations in energy, force and dynamics; applied to solve problems in Construction, such as calculations of load in built structures or thermal properties of buildings in determining design for human comfort.
Design & Technology: by applying knowledge, understanding, skill in design to a built environment context, understanding material properties in specifying designs, engaging with client briefs and understanding needs
For routes into: | Vocational | Combined with A levels |
1 x AAQ | 2 x A levels | |
|
Early Childhood Development |
Sociology |
Complementary A level learning:
Developing understanding of early childhood development from birth to eight years while they exploring the broader aspects of keeping children safe, play and learning: This content would complement A levels in Psychology and English for those progressing to degrees in Childhood and Early Years Studies, or Social Work. Students progressing onto Social Work or Psychology degrees may study A level Psychology and Sociology alongside this qualification. The content of this qualification will prepare students for placements, reflective practice and application of legislation and policy when working with children.
For routes into: | Vocational | Combined with A levels |
1 x AAQ | 2 x A levels | |
|
Engineering |
Complementary A level learning:
A level Maths: Further develops mathematical techniques in algebra, calculus, complex numbers and solving equations, but applied to solve Engineering problems, improving understanding. As they are never assessed in isolation, it avoids unnecessary duplication. It is complementary to concepts learned in A level Physics such as calculations relating to mechanical properties of materials, electrical circuits, force and dynamics, SI units of measurement, which can be applied to make decisions relating to mechanical or electrical engineering solutions. It complements A level in Design and Technology by applying knowledge, understanding and skills in the design process to an engineering context. It furthers skill development in engineering drawing and developing product design specifications to standards required in Engineering. Activities provide opportunity to collaborate with others and communicate to different audiences.
For routes into: | Vocational | Combined with A levels |
1 x AAQ | 2 x A levels | |
|
Health and Social Care |
Sociology |
Complementary A level Learning:
Studying alongside A level Biology will help to access Nursing, supporting students' understanding of the importance of the biological sciences in underpinning assessment, planning and delivery of care while they focus on body systems and their role in health outcomes.
Students progressing onto Social Work degrees may study A level Psychology and Sociology alongside. They will critically appraise concepts and debates relating to individual development, social structure and influence and how these relate to health inequalities. Using evidence and scientific methods to identify and evaluate significant trends by selecting and interpreting tables and graphs, evaluate theories and arguments and support conclusions in a coherent manner.
Combined with PE & Biology to access allied health degrees students further develop their knowledge and understanding of applied anatomy and physiology, of body systems, energy systems, and the role and impact of technology in physical activity, health monitoring, and the development of personalised care.
For routes into: | Vocational | Combined with A levels |
1 x AAQ | 2 x A levels | |
|
Information Technology |
Complementary A level learning:
The content would complement A levels in Business and Economics by providing contextualised content that considers the issues in IT in a variety of sectors. The content of the qualification includes legal issues, ethical issues, and the impact of IT, which is complementary to a range of A levels that could be taken alongside. For those students considering studying courses in Computer Science or similar subjects at HE this would complement A levels in Maths and Physics by having database content that complements these subjects by looking at relationships, algebra, and testing.
For routes into: | Vocational | Combined with A levels |
1 x AAQ | 2 x A levels | |
|
Medical Science |
Complementary A level learning:
Students practically investigate aspects of microbiology and its association with infectious diseases, inclusive of data analysis skills and reflect on professional practice. This would be beneficial to those looking to progress into biomedical sciences, or biopharmaceutical industries when combined with A level subjects such as Chemistry. This qualification falls under SSA 2.1 - Science and incorporates several areas of study not found in other A levels, including dysfunction of the Nervous System, Endocrine System, and the Renal System. In addition, students will explore diagnostic testing, genetic screening and factors affecting the immune system.
The BTEC Level 3 Technicals also complement A levels as a part of a mixed programme of learning,
For jobs in: | Vocational | Combined with A level |
1 x TOEQ | 1 x A level | |
|
Diploma in Personal Training |
OR
For jobs in: | Vocational | Combined with AAQ |
1 x TOEQ | 1 x AAQ | |
|
Diploma in Personal Training | Sport |
This qualification gives the knowledge, skills and behaviours to enter employment as a Personal Trainer or Fitness Instructor.
However a 16-18 year old may choose to combine this with other academic study in sciences or sport, to help access university before starting work.
For example study of Biology or Psychology alongside would enhance and deepen understanding of the medical and human factors involved in sports coaching or sports science. A level Biology in particular would benefit those wanting to access undergraduate sport science degrees