BTEC Nationals (AAQs)
BTEC Nationals (AAQs) are the Level 3 BTECs introduced from September 2025. AAQ stands for Alternative Academic Qualification, and to be approved as one a course has to support entry to higher education. Subjects include applied science, engineering, computing, IT, medical science, early childhood development and construction. They are taught through applied, coursework-led study and are designed to sit alongside A Levels rather than replace them.
- Level
- Level 3. A Certificate is about half an A Level, an Extended Certificate about one.
- Typical duration
- 1–2 years
Who it's for
Students aiming at university who want one subject taught through applied work and coursework, alongside their A Levels.
Entry requirements
Usually around 4–5 GCSEs at grade 4/C or above, often including English and maths. Varies by provider and subject.
Where it can lead
University, a higher or degree apprenticeship, or employment. AAQs carry UCAS points.
Exhibitors offering BTEC Nationals (AAQs)
Sixth Form
Bedford Academy
BA Sixth Form is a thriving environment with high aspirations and standards for all students. Our brand new Sixth Form building promotes a professional working environment. Our fantastic teaching and learning is combined with a strong pastoral team to ensure that students are well supported and challenged to achieve well. We have an extensive super curricular programme that allows students to develop their portfolio and therefore be competitive in their next steps applications. Our unique Sport Academy offer (Basketball, Dance & Football) allows students to develop as athletes, whilst studying their choice of subjects.
Sixth Form
Biddenham International School and Sports College
Our school is a successful, vibrant and wonderfully diverse community that is committed to high standards in all areas, first class teaching and ensuring that students are cared for in their time with us and leave us with many happy memories. It is our job to work with our parents and young people to ensure that they get to where they want to be in life and realise their potential. Our overarching mission is ‘Opening Minds, Transforming Lives’ and our Core Principles are Friendship and Compassion, Inspiration, Determination, Enjoyment and Success. As a school we aim to nurture the strengths and potential in all students of all abilities in all disciplines through a challenging, supportive and inspiring environment. Opportunities for enrichment within and beyond the curriculum are plentiful and we are committed to providing a wide range of opportunities for all our students. In short, Biddenham is a school that values individuals, transforms lives and where ‘success for all’ is not just a mantra, but infuses all we do; you will get a strong sense of that from this website.