Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs) are provider-based level 4/5 qualifications that sit between A- and T-Levels at level 3 and undergraduate degrees at level 6. HTQ is a quality mark against existing qualification types, such as Foundation Degrees, Higher Nationals, Certificates and Diplomas of HE, to show they have been approved as meeting employer developed occupational standards. The HTQ quality mark signals to learners and employers that the qualification provides the skills employers need.
HTQs provide an alternative route into the health sector alongside apprenticeships and degrees. They align to the same occupational standards as apprenticeships, thus imparting the same knowledge, skills and behaviours as an apprenticeship but do so via an alternative route; a route that may suit certain learners.
Sallyanne Pitt, Head of Play Service, Great Ormond Street Hospital say:
“Courses like the Health Play Specialist HTQ are helping to meet the demands of the NHS, upskilling people with relevant, real-world experience.”
Susan Fairclough, Therapeutic and Specialised Play Service Manager, Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital says:
“The HTQ makes our workforce more dynamic. I would feel confident employing an HTQ graduate. They have a level of competency to lead on a project or scheme.”
Health and Science HTQs are now available in these professions:
- Nursing Associate
- Health Play Specialist
- Assistant Practitioner
- Hearing Aid Dispenser
- Mammography Associate
- Healthcare Science Associate
- Sports Coach
Higher Technical Qualifications can be studied on a full or part-time basis and are suitable for both young people starting their career and for adults looking to upskill or retrain. Full-time HTQs generally take between 1 and 2 years to complete and HE student finance, including tuition fees and maintenance loans, is available for both full and part-time options.