BTECs are high-quality, career-focused qualifications grounded in the real world of work. This means BTEC learners develop and apply the knowledge, skills and behaviours that employers and universities are looking for. The demand for workforce skills is increasing and the need for global certification in technical and vocational areas is growing. BTEC qualifications are uniquely placed to respond to these skills gaps by providing practical skills assessment and up-to-date career-focused education in traditional and emerging sectors.

International BTECs are internally assessed allowing for practical assignments that combine knowledge and career related skills. At least 25% of these assignments will be set by Pearson to provide additional external standardization. The assignments are scenario based and designed to be work relevant, for example by researching and presenting information and demonstrating the skills needed for employment.

Pearson BTEC Higher National qualifications take a student-centered approach to the curriculum. There is a flexible, unit-based structure that focuses on developing the practical, interpersonal and thinking skills the student will need to succeed in employment and higher education. Pearson BTEC Higher Nationals are intended to keep doors open for future study if a student wishes to take their education further after completing a Higher National programme. They do this by allowing space for students to develop their higher education study skills, such as the ability to research. The study programme is clearly set out in line with the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education’s Framework for Higher Education qualification standards at Levels 4 and 5. This means that students who want to progress to Levels 5 or 6 should feel better prepared.