Jargon buster

There's a whole new world of terminology, abbreviations and jargon that's specific to each individual sector. So we've put together this glossary to define as many of the terms that you're likely to come across as possible.

A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z

A Levels - Advanced Level is a two year course normally taken as a progression from GCSE. This is an academic course at level 3 and is often seen as the main academic route through to Higher Education.
A/S Levels - Advanced Subsidiary is the equivalent to half an A level although it can also be seen as a stand alone qualification. This is the first half of an A level qualification the second more demanding half is the A2.
A2 Level - This is the second half of an A level qualification and covers more demanding material than an AS level.
AAT - Accounting qualification, this course can be work based taken as an NVQ or vocational taken as a diploma.
AEA - Advanced Extension Awards these test the most able students who are studying A levels. They replaced special papers and allow universities to differentiate between the most able students especially if there is a high number who have A grades.
Apprenticeships - Apprenticeships allow for people to learn whilst working, gaining valuable experience of actually doing a job with focused learning. An apprenticeship is made up of a technical certificate, an NVQ and a key skills qualification.
AQA - An awarding body
AQA Unit Award Scheme - These are not qualifications as such but are recognition of achievements. Awards are given to students after completing a unit which can be in an area of the curriculum or in other areas such as personal development. They will receive a letter of credit which will list all of the units completed.