Higher Technical Qualifications

Higher Technical Qualifications are either new or existing Level 4 and 5 qualifications (such as HNDs/Foundation Degrees/Diploma HE) that have been approved by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE) as meeting occupational standards for the relevant sector. These are the same set of standards that are the foundation of apprenticeships and T Levels.

The qualifications have been developed by awarding bodies in collaboration with employers and businesses.

What are the benefits of studying a HTQ?

The benefit of studying an approved Higher Technical Qualification is that the knowledge, skills and behaviours that a student will learn and acquire have been identified by employers. This means that on completion of their course, learners will be ready to enter employment or to progress within their chosen occupation or sector. It will also provide a high-quality option for all learners looking to progress from A Levels, T Levels or apprenticeships.

How will they be delivered?

They are largely classroom based, giving the opportunity for practical skills to be learnt in an education setting, through workshops and simulated work environments for example. Flexible classroom learning will also make higher technical skills accessible to workers at different stages of their career. Higher Technical Qualifications are different to apprenticeships which combine practical training in a job with study.

Who are HTQs for?

HTQs are a great option for:

- School leavers (18+) who are looking for an alternative to degrees or apprenticeships

- Anyone looking to upskill and gain a qualification, whether you're already in employment or looking to retrain 

How is a HTQ Different from...

An apprenticeship:

- HTQs and apprenticeships are based on the same employer designed standards but will suit different learning styles.

- Apprenticeships are paid work, suitable for learners who know what occupation they want to pursue and wish to train ‘on the job’. HTQs offer a more flexible learning approach and are largely classroom based.

 -On completion of their course, HTQ learners will be ready for work in their chosen area, and apprentices will have the skills they need for their chosen job.

A degree:

- Degrees offer a Level 6 qualification, whereas HTQs are Level 4/5 qualifications.

- This means that HTQs are often shorter and cheaper than degrees.

- HTQs will suit anyone who wants to carry on studying towards a technical occupation, or those looking to retrain/upskill.

How much do they cost?

The Digital HTQ offered at HoW College will cost £8000 per year (the course will be two years in length)

Government loans will be available for most HTQs. Depending on the qualification type of the approved HTQ this would be provided through either higher education student finance or through an Advanced Learner Loan.

More detail on the eligibility criteria for higher education student finance and Advanced Learner Loans is available on gov.uk