Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Welcome to our FAQs section. Here you'll find quick answers to your questions about the programmes.

1. What are the main aims of the programmes?To provide local government e-learning qualification programmes that achieve real benefits for participants and employing authorities. The learning and assessment strategies are both focused on the workplace so that tangible improvements can be made. See Qualification Aims for additional information.
2. How much do the learning programmes cost?Both programmes represent excellent value. Fees include registration on the programme, Edexcel registration fees, fees payable to internal and external verifiers, and VAT (as applicable). See Award Cost and/or Certificate Cost for additional information.
3. The qualifications are at NICATS Level 3: what does this mean?NICATS is the qualification framework that now applies to all BTEC customised framework qualifications. NICATS is involved in a number of key UK initiatives in the further and higher education sectors. An illustrative summary of what Level 3 means within this framework can be found here.
4. Do applicants need any qualifications to get onto the Award or Certificate programmes?No. There are no formal entry or eligibility requirements. See Target Participants for additional information.
5. Can candidates start their programme when it suits them and the sponsor?Yes. There are no academic years or other restrictions to worry about. Candidates can start as soon as the simple registration process is complete and fees have been paid.
6. Can registration be completed online?Yes. Applicants can be signed-up online here.
7. Can a candidate's work experience to date and/or existing qualifications count towards the qualifications? Yes. Evidence of prior learning and existing qualifications will be considered for individual learning outcomes and applications from registered participants are welcome. To qualify as 'accredited prior learning' (APL) evidence must be authentic, current, relevant, and sufficient.
8. How much support will participants get?Participants will have a tutor/assessor appointed who will guide them through their entire programme. As registered participants, they will also have access to a dedicated online discussion forum. See Support for additional information.
9. What happens if a participant doesn’t pass an assignment at the first attempt?We provide supplementary tutorial support to any participant whose first attempt at an assignment fails to meet the required standard.
10. Must participants pass all assignments to achieve their Award or Certificate qualification?Yes. Participants need to pass all assignments relevant to their programme to be awarded their qualification. There are no other requirements.
11. Do participants need to be computer experts or need a special computer or other specialist equipment?No. Participants simply need to be able to access the Internet, send e-mail, and use the basic functions of a word processing program. See Delivery for additional information.
12. Do participants need to use a particular web browser or word processing program?No. Our e-learning programs support all modern browsers including Internet Explorer 6+, Mozilla Firefox 1.0+, Apple Safari 1.0+ and Opera 8+. Some features require JavaScript to be enabled. Assignments will be accepted in Microsoft Office, Star Office or Open Office format.
13. What happens if a participant is unable to complete their programme within the registration period?The initial registration period may be extended with our agreement, but there may be extra fees to pay.
14. What will participants be awarded at the end of the programme?Participants who complete the Award programme and meet all the learning outcomes (as applicable to their qualification options) will be awarded the BTEC Advanced Award in Local Government Management. Participants who complete the Certificate programme and meet all the learning outcomes will be awarded the BTEC Advanced Certificate in Local Government Management.
15. Is either qualification programme available off-line, e.g. through a series a face-to-face training events?No. The programmes are exclusively available online via our dedicated e-learning programs.
16. What are the benefits for participants?A comprehensive list of participant benefits can be found here.
17. What are the benefits for sponsor local authorities?A comprehensive list of sponsor benefits can be found here.