Issuu

2026 / 27

VOCATIONAL SUBJECTS

WORLD-CLASS

EDUCATION

OUR SCHOOL OUR PURPOSE OUR VALUES The British School Al Khubairat (BSAK) is Abu Dhabi’s leading British not-forproﬁt, co-educational day school. From Nursery to A Level (3 – 18) our dynamic school culture offers students an enriching experience and outstanding results.

A community committed to inspiring our students to create an impactful legacy

Empathy and Care | Respect and Inclusivity | Honesty and Integrity Endeavour and Resilience

CONTENTS Our School, Our Vision Welcome From The Head of BTEC Myth Busters & Key Facts 2025 Results Useful Links Summary of Pathways and Entry Criteria Course overview Alumni Destinations

BTEC & VOCATIONAL COURSES BTEC Business BTEC Engineering BTEC Esports BTEC Hospitality BTEC Sport RSL CAPA

WELCOME FROM

THE HEAD OF BTEC+ Welcome to the British School Al Khubairat (BSAK) Sixth Form and our award-winning vocational pathways. At BSAK, we believe that every student deserves a pathway that recognises their strengths, nurtures their ambitions and prepares them for the future. Our BTEC+ provision combines academic ambition with practical, real-world learning, empowering students to develop the knowledge, skills and confidence to succeed beyond school. Our vocational offer includes established BTEC qualifications in Business, Engineering, Esports, Hospitality and Sports, alongside the RSL Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA) pathway. Together, these provide students with opportunities to pursue their interests, develop specialist skills and work towards internationally recognised qualifications. Learning beyond the classroom is central to our approach. Through partnerships with industry professionals and leading organisations, students gain valuable experience in authentic professional environments. From delivering hospitality services to VIP guests to developing creative productions and exploring the world of business, our students are encouraged to apply their learning, take responsibility and develop the professional skills that employers and universities value. We are equally committed to academic rigour. Robust assessment and quality assurance underpin our vocational provision, with our students consistently achieving excellent results and progressing to universities and further opportunities around the world. Whether studying a vocational programme or combining vocational qualifications with A Levels, students benefit from specialist facilities, experienced teachers and a supportive Sixth Form environment. Our ambition is simple: to provide meaningful pathways that open doors, develop character and equip every student with the skills and confidence to become future ready.

Mr Mebs Choudhury Associate Senior Leader | Leader of Vocational and BTEC mchoudhury@britishschool.sch.ae

KEY FACTS ABOUT THE BTEC LEVEL 3 DIPLOMA Every year, BTEC serves 1 million learners and are recognised in more than 70 countries worldwide. (Pearson)

BTEC qualiﬁcations are now accepted by many universities worldwide.

95% of UK universities accept the BTEC Level 3 Diploma as equivalent to A Level. (UCAS)

The BTEC qualiﬁcation enables students to become occupationally ready to take up employment in business, immediately after the qualiﬁcation.

4 out of 5 students that go to university with the BTEC qualiﬁcation, gain a 1st or 2nd class degree. (LSE Report (London School of Economics and Political Science.)

Offers a non-examination (100% coursework) pathway through the Sixth Form.

The BTEC qualiﬁcation gives its students an advantage in the ﬁrst year of undergraduate study and they are better prepared for the demands of university. (LSE report)

Entry requirement is a minimum of 5 x Grade 4/C at GCSE.

1/3 of businesses prefer BTEC qualiﬁcations due to the skills and abilities they develop. (Confederation of British Industry)

*Percentages are approximate

“The BTEC Sport Course has enabled me to focus on and specialise in a subject that I am passionate about. It has not only progressed my academic understanding but it has also given me an advantage in sporting co-curricular activities, due to the advanced information that we are taught in the classroom.” Joey Brammer - BTEC Sport

MYTH-BUSTING THE BTEC + HERE ARE THE FACTS MYTH 1

You have to have A Levels if you want to go to university. FACT You can go to university with either a BTEC or A Levels. The BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma equals one A Level, both carrying the same UCAS points. Some universities may even prefer BTECs for certain courses, as they show subject passion and sustained focus. In fact, 95% of UK universities accept BTEC qualifications, and up to 26% of university entrants in recent years had a BTEC.

MYTH 2

BTEC is an easy option. Studying A Levels indicates greater intelligence than the BTEC. FACT BTEC is not an easier qualiﬁcation - far from it! It is however assessed differently and this makes it more accessible, as students learn in a way that suits them. The concept of the BTEC as an ‘easy option’ is based on the fact that it is often 100% coursework, with no exams. So, in May and June when the A Level exams are taking place and exam stress levels are high, it may look as if the BTEC is easier, but in fact it is equivalent to A levels, it is a lot of work and there is nothing easy about it!

MYTH 3

You should always choose A Levels over BTEC, if you have the choice. FACT Choosing between A Levels and a BTEC depends on what suits you best. A BTEC is not a second-rate option - both A levels and BTEC can lead to the same university courses. A Levels are more academic and exam-focused, while BTECs offer practical, hands-on learning and industry experience. If you prefer exams and traditional subjects, A Levels may suit you. If you enjoy practical work, a BTEC might be better. It’s important to consider your strengths and goals, and discussing options with a teacher or careers advisor is strongly recommended.

BTEC RESULTS 2026

BTEC RESULTS

88%

97%

DISTINCTION* (= A* AT A LEVEL)

DISTINCTION*DISTINCTION (= A*-A AT A LEVEL)

USEFUL LINKS The BSAK Sixth Form, A Level and BTEC courses https://www.britishschool.sch.ae/sixth-form/overview

Applying to University with International BTEC Qualifications https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/news-policy/qualifications/international-btec-lev el-3/general-news/btec-international-l3-applying-via-ucas-to-uk-universities.html Pearson International BTEC Level 3 University Recognition List https://qualifications.pearson.com/content/dam/pdf/btec-international-level3/Marketing/btec-int-uni-recognition-list.pdf BTEC International Qualifications https: //qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/btec-international-level-3.html

SUMMARY OF PATHWAYS AND ENTRY CRITERIA

SUBJECT CRITERIA

ADDITIONAL

ENTRY CRITERIA

PATHWAY

At BSAK we offer 4 pathways

A LEVEL

A LEVEL CREATIVE ARTS

BTEC + 1 A LEVEL

BTEC + BTEC

5 x Grade 6 at GCSE

5 x Grade 4 at GCSE

Grade 4 in English Language and Mathematics

SUBJECTS Refer to the A Level subject criteria page

Fine Art, Graphic Communication, Media Studies, Photography, Product Design

SUBJECTS Refer to the A Level & BTEC specific subject criteria pages

Sport Business Esports Hospitality Engineering* RSL CAPA

*Engineering requires Grade 5 GCSE in Maths + 1 Science subject

FACILITIES

BUSINESS Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma COURSE TITLE Pearson BTEC International Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma

COURSE WEIGHTING Equivalent to one A Level Do exams hold you back from showing your true potential? If you prefer coursework and practical projects, the BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Business could be the course for you. The BTEC is a progressive hands on experience into the world of business and allows students to experience work based tasks as part of the learning process. You are assessed on how well you complete tasks such as writing business reports, completing presentations and delivering projects. We work with real businesses to deliver a cutting edge learning experience. Skills you will develop BTEC Business students become confident, independent learners. You will build key skills such as: Time management and organisation Research and analysis Teamwork and communication Problem-solving in real business contexts Why choose this course at BSAK? Our students learn beyond the classroom through contact with business professionals and real projects. The ongoing nature of assessment means you leave with not just a qualification, but practical experience and transferable skills that give you a competitive edge. Some of our previous experiences have included Industry speakers delivering sessions on project management Finance workshops with Deloitte Middle East Merchandising visit and task at IKEA Project management course certification from The Project Management Institute

BUSINESS Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma What you will study Over two years you will complete five units, assessed through coursework and practical projects with no final exams. Topics include:

EXPLORING A BUSINESS

PLANNING A MARKETING CAMPAIGN

PRINCIPLES OF MANAGEMENT

BUSINESS FINANCE

MANAGING AN EVENT

How you will be assessed Assessment is continuous and portfolio-based, linking theory with real-world applications. You’ll carry out independent research, work with local businesses, and present your findings in written assignments, presentations and live projects. Where it can take you BTEC students are highly valued by universities and employers alike. Over 95% of UK universities — including Russell Group institutions accept BTECs. Many students progress to degrees in Business, Marketing, Finance, and Management, or move directly into employment in areas such as retail, accountancy, and human resources

ENGINEERING Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma COURSE TITLE Pearson BTEC International Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Engineering COURSE WEIGHTING Equivalent to one A Level Are you interested in a career as an engineer? This course combines technical knowledge with hands-on learning, giving you practical skills that are highly valued in today’s industries. Whether you see your future in mechanical, electrical, civil, or design engineering, BTEC Engineering provides the ideal foundation. It’s a course for students who enjoy problem-solving, applied science, and real-world challenges. Skills you will develop Students gain strong skills in: Applying maths and science in engineering contexts CAD design and manufacturing techniques Problem-solving and critical thinking Independent study and time management Why choose this course at BSAK? BTEC Engineering is delivered by experienced teachers who have a passion for this subject. With a strong focus on applied learning and real-world projects, students leave with industry-relevant skills and a competitive edge for both higher education and employment.

ENGINEERING Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma What you will study Mandatory Units: COMPUTER AIDED DESIGN IN ENGINEERING

MECHANICAL PRINCIPLES

DELIVERY OF ENGINEERING PROCESSES SAFELY AS A TEAM

Examples of optional units - these will be set at the start of each year.

WORK EXPERIENCE IN AN ENGINEERING SETTING

ENGINEERING DESIGN

FABRICATION PROCESSES IN ENGINEERING

How you will be assessed Assessment is continuous, with no final exams. Mandatory units use set assignments provided by Pearson, while optional units are assessed through internally designed tasks. Methods include technical drawings, design projects, product manufacture, reports, and mathematical applications, giving you multiple ways to demonstrate your ability beyond the exam hall. Where it can take you BTEC Engineering is recognised by 95% of UK universities, including Russell Group institutions. It can lead to degrees in Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, Robotics, Motorsport, or Aeronautical Engineering, as well as related fields such as Architecture or Software Engineering. Apprenticeships and direct routes into industry are also possible. For international universities, acceptance is typically on a case-by-case basis.

ESPORTS Level 3 National Extended Certificate COURSE TITLE Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Esports With the Esports industry seeing explosive growth both worldwide and in this region, COURSE excitingWEIGHTING times lie ahead for careers and business opportunities. Equivalent to one A Level The the BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Esports is angrowth, exciting opportunity to a gain both With global esports industry experiencing explosive this course offers practical and theoretical skillsyour in navigating career in this growing market. unique opportunity to combine passion foragaming with practical skills that prepare you for an exciting career in a rapidly expanding sector. The course covers topics around the esports industry, skills needed to access careers The BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Esports explores the business, and many business related areas such as management and marketing. management, and performance sides of competitive gaming. Students learn not just about playing and analysing games, but also about entrepreneurship, marketing, health mchoudhury@britishschool.sch.ae and wellbeing, and the wider esports ecosystem. Skills you will develop You will gain the ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and conduct indepth research. Beyond this, you will develop skills in: Event management and team coordination Enterprise and entrepreneurship in esports Health and wellbeing for esports players Communication and leadership within esports settings Why choose this course at BSAK? Our students benefit from access to a cutting-edge Esports Lab, designed to industry standards. Here you will gain first-hand experience in competitive play, live streaming, and event management giving you the real-world skills to stand out in both higher education and future employment.

ESPORTS Level 3 National Extended Certificate What you will study Over two years you will complete four core units, alongside optional modules, all assessed through coursework and practical projects:

INTRODUCTION TO ESPORTS

ENTERPRISE & ENTREPRENEURS HIP IN THE ESPORTS INDUSTRY

ESPORTS SKILLS, STRATEGIES AND ANALYSIS

HEALTH, WELLBEING AND FITNESS FOR ESPORTS PLAYERS

How you will be assessed There are no final exams. Instead, you will build a portfolio of evidence, assessed through written projects, presentations, live events, and practical observations. All work is internally marked and externally moderated by Pearson. Where it can take you Over 95% of UK universities — including Russell Group institutions — accept BTECs. This course provides progression to degrees in Esports, Business Management, Marketing, Media, and related fields. It also develops transferable skills valued by employers, opening pathways into careers such as event management, digital marketing, coaching, and business development within the esports industry.

HOSPITALITY Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma COURSE TITLE Pearson BTEC International Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Hospitality COURSE WEIGHTING Equivalent to one A Level The hospitality industry plays a major role in the UAE and worldwide, covering hotels, restaurants, catering, tourism, and entertainment. The BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Hospitality gives you topics the chance to develop both practical andtypes theoretical skillsand for amany career in The course covers around the hospitality industry, of cuisine this diverserelated and fast-paced sector. It’s the perfectand choice for students enjoy working with business areas such as management marketing. Thiswho course aims to link people, being creative, hands-on real-world settings. students learning to and the gaining real world and as experience such, workin placements and industry visits play a big role in the course delivery. Skills you will develop This qualification develops the key skills needed to thrive in hospitality and beyond, including: mchoudhury@britishschool.sch.ae Teamwork andindustry leadership The hospitality has a signiﬁcant presence in the UAE and covers areas such as Eventrestaurants, planning andcatering organisation hotels, and entertainment venues. Business awareness and marketing insight Culinary skills in a kitchen Why choose this course at BSAK? Our students benefit from access to a professional-standard teaching kitchen and event facilities, alongside strong links with local industry. From planning and hosting hospitality events to gaining first-hand experience through placements, the course connects your learning directly to the world of work.

HOSPITALITY Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma What you will study Over the duration of the course you will complete six units, assessed through practical and written projects. Core units include:

LEADERSHIP AND SUPERVISION

THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY

ENVIRONMENT & SUSTAINABILITY

EUROPEAN CUISINE

CUSTOMER SERVICE PROVISION

HOSPITALITY EVENTS

How you will be assessed There are no final exams. Instead, students build a portfolio of evidence across the two years. Assessment methods include practical service, event planning, presentations, and research assignments. All work is internally assessed and externally moderated by Pearson. Where it can take you Over 95% of UK universities accept BTECs, including Russell Group institutions, and many international universities also recognise the qualification. Students often progress to degrees in Hospitality Management, Events Management, Business, or Tourism. The course also prepares you for direct entry into careers in hotel management, catering, event planning, and other service industries.

SPORT Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma COURSE TITLE Pearson BTEC International Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Sport COURSE WEIGHTING Equivalent to one A Level If you aspire to work with elite athletes, enter professional sport, or study subjects such as Sports Science at university, BTEC Sport offers an ideal pathway. This applied qualification combines theory with hands-on experience, preparing you for higher education or employment in a wide range of sporting careers. Skills you will develop jcropper@britishschool.sch.ae BTEC Sport students gain: Applied knowledge of anatomy, physiology and performance Research and academic writing skills Coaching, communication and interview techniques Organisation and time-management skills Why choose this course at BSAK? At BSAK, Sport students benefit from links with leading organisations and access to high-quality facilities. From psychology workshops and injury-management sessions to nutrition planning and coaching practice, learning is practical, professional and designed to give you a head start in an exciting, competitive industry.

SPORT Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma What you will study Health, Wellbeing & Sport Careers in Sport & Active Leisure Inclusive Coaching Nutrition for Physical Performance Sports Psychology Organising Events in Sport Technology in Sport All units follow the 2020 Pearson specification and are designed to give a truly vocational experience. You’ll visit sports institutes, work alongside industry professionals, and engage in projects that mirror real practice in the sector. How you will be assessed There are no written exams. Assessment is continuous and portfolio-based, including research reports, practical demonstrations, presentations and industry-linked projects. Work is internally assessed and externally moderated by Pearson. Where it can take you The qualification is recognised by 95% of UK universities, including Russell Group institutions, and by many international providers. They open doors to degrees in Sports Science, Coaching, Physiotherapy, Physical Education, and Sport Management, as well as direct entry into fitness instruction, coaching, development and other sport-related roles.

RSL CREATIVE AND PERFORMING ARTS Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma COURSE TITLE RSL Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Creative and Performing Arts COURSE WEIGHTING Equivalent to one A Level We are so excited to offer the Rock School London (RSL) Creative and Performing Arts course. It is for students drawn to the vibrant world of theatre and performance, this course provides a professional platform where passion meets practical skill. The RSL Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Creative & Performing Arts (CAPA) – Acting Pathway offers an exciting route into the performing arts industry, developing the confidence, creativity, and technical expertise needed to succeed on stage or screen. Skills you will develop By the end of the course you will have built a strong set of professional skills, including: Vocal and physical acting techniques Character development and improvisation Devising original material Audition preparation and performance presentation Research, reflection, and evaluation Why choose this course at BSAK? CAPA offers students the chance to perform, create, and collaborate in a supportive environment. You will take part in whole-school productions, run workshops, and lead smaller performances and clubs. Theatre visits, masterclasses with visiting practitioners, and access to professional rehearsal spaces provide an authentic insight into working in the performing arts.

RSL CREATIVE AND PERFORMING ARTS Level 3 Diploma What you will study Students follow the Acting pathway of the RSL CAPA qualification. Learning is centred around one core unit: CAPA 301: Live Performance – a practical project responding to a set brief created by industry professionals. Alongside this, students select five optional units, which may include: Audition Techniques Approaches to Acting Theatre in Education Acting for Camera Contemporary Theatre Vocal Techniques Ensemble Dance This flexible structure allows students to tailor the course to their strengths and interests while gaining a broad understanding of the performing arts sector. How you will be assessed Assessment is entirely coursework-based. You will produce a portfolio of evidence across rehearsals, workshops, live performances, written reflections, and presentations. All units are internally assessed and externally moderated by RSL Awards. Where it can take you The CAPA qualification is recognised by a wide range of universities and drama schools, as well as employers within the creative industries. It can lead to higher education in Acting, Drama, Theatre Production, or Creative Arts, and opens pathways into careers such as stage or screen acting, directing, community theatre, arts administration, or teaching.

STUDENT DESTINATIONS BTEC ALUMNI BTEC BUSINESS University of Leeds Course:International Business and Marketing University of Bath Course: International Development with Economics University of Surrey Course: Accounting and Finance University of Birmingham Course: Economics and Politics University of Reading Course: Business Management Leeds Beckett University Course: Sports Business Management University of Liverpool Course: Business Management Loughborough University Course: International Business Nottingham Trent University Course: Business Management and Marketing Northeastern University London Course: Business University of Waterloo Course: Environment Planning University of London Course: Business Adminstration

STUDENT DESTINATIONS BTEC ALUMNI BTEC ENGINEERING The University of Liverpool Course: Engineering University of the West of England Bristol Course: Mechanical Engineering University of the West of England Bristol Course: Robotics University of York Course: Engineering Oxford Brookes University Course: Motorsport Engineering Loughborough University Course: Graphic Design Herriot-Watt Dubai Course: Computer Science Course: Engineering Cardiff University Course: Engineering with Foundation Year

STUDENT DESTINATIONS BTEC ALUMNI BTEC SPORT University of Exeter Course: Marketing with Management Loughborough University Course: Sport Management Sheffield Hallam University Course: Physiotherapy University of Surrey Course: Paramedic Science Lincoln University Course: Sport and Exercise Science Cardiff Metropolitan University Course: Sport, Physical Education and Health Nottingham Trent University Course: Sport Science and Management University of Brighton Course: Physical Education with QTS (Secondary) University of Stirling Course: Sports Development and Coaching New York University (NYU), USA Course: Degree in Liberal Studies University of Leeds Course: Sport and Exercise Science Canterbury Christ Church University Course: Physiotherapy

EXCEEDING

EXPECTATIONS.