What are BTecs and how are they graded?

BTecs, practical qualifications by the Business and Technology Education Council (BTEC), are graded as Starred Distinction, Distinction, Merit, or Pass. BTec Firsts are equivalent to GCSEs, while BTec Nationals are Level 3 qualifications, comparable to A-levels. Results for these courses are usually released with A-level and GCSE outcomes. With varied assessment methods, BTecs can lead to further education or direct employment, appealing to students seeking occupation-specific skills or university pathways.