HTQs

Endorsed by Skills England, HTQs are ideal for school leavers aged 18+, as well as adults looking to retrain, upskill or take the next step in their career. They are developed to meet the same occupational standards as apprenticeships, giving you industry relevant skills and knowledge, without the requirement to be employed as an apprentice.

As higher education qualifications, HTQs are eligible for Student Finance England funding. If you're studying an eligible full time or part time HTQ that lasts at least 1 year, you may be able to apply for both tuition fee and maintenance loans.

With a strong focus on practical learning and employer needs, HTQs can help you build the confidence, experience and technical expertise to progress in your chosen profession.

Why should I study a HTQ?

Right now, there are huge technical skills gaps, meaning employers need people with technical skills more than ever before.

An HTQ offers you the opportunity to take a high-quality Level 4 or 5 qualification that has been specifically designed with employers to meet their needs.

This means that HTQs can unlock high-skilled, highly-paid jobs that you can jump straight into.

There are also often clear pathways to progress to further study from HTQs for those that want to pursue a degree.

How are HTQs taught?

HTQs are designed to fit around different learning needs and career goals. Delivered through a mix of classroom teaching, practical activities and industry focused learning, they help you develop the technical knowledge and workplace skills employers are looking for. Many courses include workplace simulations, virtual learning environments and opportunities to gain industry experience, with full time and part time study options available.

How is a HTQ different from an apprenticeship or a degree?

HTQs and apprenticeships are based on the same employer designed standards but will suit different learning styles.

Apprenticeships are paid work, suitable for learners who know what occupation they want to pursue and wish to train ‘on the job’. HTQs offer a more flexible learning approach and are largely classroom based.
Degrees offer a Level 6 qualification, whereas HTQs are Level 4/5 qualifications. This means that HTQs are often shorter and cheaper than degrees.

HTQs are ideal for anyone looking to progress towards a skilled technical career, whether you're continuing your education, changing career direction or looking to upskill. Designed around employer needs, these qualifications help you develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours required for your chosen industry, so you'll be ready to move into employment or progress further in your career when you complete your course.

Who are HTQs for?

HTQs are for you if you are:

Aged 18 and over
Looking to retrain or upskill
Focused on gaining the knowledge and practical experience needed for a skilled job
A more practical learner
Excited about studying an employer-led course
Interested in progressing to further study or training

They offer a high-quality alternative to apprenticeships or degrees. As technical qualifications they have been developed by employers and awarding bodies, so you’ll get the right training, knowledge, and skills to succeed in the workplace.

Level 4 and 5 Qualifications developed by awarding bodies working alongside employers and businesses. Gain the specific training, knowledge and skills you need for your chosen career.

HTQs offered at SECG

Explore our Higher Technical Qualifications to find the course that's right for you. Each course page provides everything you need to know, including entry requirements, course content, assessment methods, progression opportunities and how to apply.

Our HTQs cover a range of high demand sectors, including coaching, computing, construction management, cybersecurity, healthcare, digital technologies, and leadership and management. Developed in partnership with employers and industry experts, these qualifications are designed to help you gain the specialist knowledge, technical skills and practical experience needed for your chosen career.