On this page:
1. What is a Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ)? 2. Why are HTQ’s being introduced? 3.What are the benefits of HTQ’s? 4. Who are HTQ’s for?
5. What are the entry requirements for an HTQ? 6. What HTQ subjects can you study with Fareport Training?
7. What does the NCFE awarding body say about HTQ’s? 8. What does the CMI awarding body say about HTQ’s?
9. Why study an HTQ with Fareport Training? 10. How do you study an HTQ with Fareport Training? 11. How much does it cost to study an HTQ?
12. What are my options after gaining an HTQ? 13. How do you apply for an HTQ run by Fareport Training?
1. What is a Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ)?
Technical Qualifications at Higher Levels (HTQs) are specialised credentials categorised as Level 4 and 5, positioned strategically to serve as a bridge linking A/T Levels with full university degree programmes.
These qualifications are the result of a collaborative effort involving certification authorities, various employers, and business leaders. The design of HTQs is carefully tailored to meet the demands of the workforce by providing students with an education that aligns closely with industry standards. They focus on imparting precise training, essential knowledge, and practical skills that are directly applicable to specific career paths. This ensures that learners are well-prepared to meet the expectations of their prospective professions, making them valuable candidates in the job market.
2. Why are HTQ’s being introduced?
In the United Kingdom, there is a growing demand for skills at levels 4 and 5, but the number of people achieving these qualifications is relatively low compared to other countries.
The Department for Education is aiming to build a high-quality system of technical education to ensure that students gain the necessary skills and knowledge for their careers, and so that both employers and learners alike can be assured that someone who achieves an HTQ will have had the training they need to succeed.
It’s hoped that HTQs will help to address skill shortages, increase productivity and, ultimately, improve the UK economy. These qualifications have been developed by awarding bodies in collaboration with employers so students can develop the skills that employers want.
3. What are the benefits of HTQ’s?
HTQs give you the confidence that you'll be able to acquire the skills employers are looking for. For a wide range of learners, including the opportunity to study full or part time, they offer considerable flexibility. They're a great way to keep your education going, get a good job or learn new skills and move up the career ladder.
Key features:
• A high-quality alternative to other routes, such as apprenticeships, traineeships or degrees
• Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education approved qualifications
4. Who are HTQ’s for?
You can apply for a Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ) while still in school, but you need to be 18 years or older to begin the program. HTQs are offered only in England. They may be a good fit if you're looking to train for a skilled job or if you're employed and want to boost your career prospects by upskilling or retraining.
5. What are the entry requirements for an HTQ?
To enrol in the course of your choice, you must fulfil the entry criteria established by the provider. These requirements differ, but often include having GCSEs or A levels at specific grades and, in some cases, specific subjects. BTEC, T level, and various other Level 3 qualifications are generally accepted by many institutions, with many also utilising the UCAS Tariff.
6. What HTQ subjects can you study with Fareport Training?
Fareport are excited to be launching two Higher Technical Qualifications in September 2024!
1. NCFE Level 4 Diploma: Data Analyst
• Legislation and security standards applied to data analytics
• Data fundamentals and lifecycle
• Data structure and databases
• Stakeholder engagement and user experience in data analytics
• Organisational data
• Data mining and statistical analysis
2. CMI Level 5 Diploma in Operational Management
Developing, Managing and Leading Teams
Stakeholder Relationships
Managing a project
Managing Change
Operational Planning
Personal and Professional Development
7. What does the NCFE awarding body say about HTQ’s?
All NCFE’s proposed Higher Technical qualifications (HTQs) have been designed from scratch to meet the defined purpose of HTQs, that is to align to existing occupational standards, providing learners with entry-level competence and allowing them to enter their chosen profession or progress onto higher education.
In line with Ofqual’s definition of fitness for purpose, and with NCFE’s approach to good quality qualification and assessment design, we aim to balance key principles of assessment along with stakeholder needs in any development.
8. What does the CMI awarding body say about HTQ’s?
Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs) are level 4 or 5 qualifications that have been quality marked by the Institute For Apprenticeships & Technical Education (IfATE) to indicate their alignment to employer-led occupational standards.
New or existing level 4 or 5 qualifications submitted to IfATE’s approvals process will receive a quality-mark if the qualification satisfies IfATE's approvals criteria. HTQs align to approved occupational standards and allow learners to enter their chosen profession or progress onto higher education.
9. Why study an HTQ with Fareport Training?
Fareport Training was established in 1981 in order to offer young people a route into work through work based training. In 2014 the business was purchased with support from entrepreneur Theo Paphitis by Natalie Cahill and Marinos Paphitis. Since then we have been building on Fareport's excellent reputation for high quality training and delivering training and apprenticeships across England.
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10. How do you study an HTQ with Fareport Training?
Depending on the subject area you choose; you may have various options for how you study. Besides full-time study, Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs) can often be pursued part-time, online, or through other flexible arrangements, such as distance learning courses.
11. How much does it cost to study an HTQ?
If you opt for a Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ) as a standalone course, you will need to pay tuition fees, which can range from approximately £7,000 to £9,250 per year, depending on the course's duration, whether one year or two.
Students who are eligible may access government-supported tuition fee and maintenance loans through Student Finance England. Additionally, you might qualify for a scholarship, bursary, or grant—more information on these financial supports can be found on the UCAS website. It's also advisable to check with HTQ providers to see if they know of any specific funds available. In certain situations, funding may be provided through an Advanced Learner Loan.
Starting from the 2023/24 academic year, the Government will also extend student loan access to those undertaking HTQs part-time. If you are employed, your employer might contribute towards your HTQ studies.
Navigating student funding can be intricate, so it’s crucial to seek the latest information and advice to understand your options fully.
12. What are my options after gaining an HTQ?
HTQs provide a pathway into skilled positions across various industries. They also offer opportunities for you to retrain or advance in your current job. Alternatively, you might choose to pursue further education, such as undertaking an undergraduate degree on a full- or part-time basis.
