GEMS Education gives students fresh choice at post-16 with new suite of tech-focused BTECs

• Industry-related BTEC courses provided across seven GEMS schools in the UAE
• GEMS Wellington Academy – Al Khail delivers new suite of tech-focused BTECs
• GEMS Wellington Academy – Silicon Oasis is offering blended pathways post-16

Dubai, UAE: GEMS Education, one of the world’s largest private K-12 education providers, is offering a range of BTEC (Business and Technology Education Council) qualifications to support an inclusive, equally diverse education for all learners post-16.

BTECs are considered incredibly valuable courses that prepare students for the world of work and provide relevant industry-ready options equipping them with the contemporary skills that employers need, plus the academic knowledge that universities desire.

BTECs carry the same UCAS tariff for acceptance into universities as A Level and IB. A Level 3 Distinction* BTEC, is the same as an A* at A level and a Higher Level 7 in IB – they all are worth 56 points.

GEMS Wellington Academy – Al Khail has introduced a technology-focused suite of  BTEC qualifications including subjects such as Technology, Bio Medical Science, Business Entrepreneurship, Sport, and Performing Arts. BTEC qualifications are designed to  provide an opportunity for students to not only progress academically, but also develop their interpersonal skills by becoming leaders in their chosen sector.

GEMS Wellington Academy – Silicon Oasis offers what is known as a ‘Fifth Strand’ – a combination of A Level, BTEC and International Baccalaureate courses. This highly practical and customised approach provides students with a specialised and unique programme of study that is widely recognised by  employers and universities globally.

GEMS Wellington Academy – Silicon Oasis, BTECs are divided into units that cover specific areas of knowledge, skills, and understanding required by a particular sector or industry. BTEC students take core units that provide a broad foundation and understanding about the sector, and then choose from a range of optional units enabling them to focus on particular interests.

Michael Gernon, Chief Education Innovation Officer, GEMS Education, said: “At GEMS Education, we believe that every student and every learner can reach their full potential through a programme of study that best suits their strengths. Vocational education at GEMS Education is thorough and relevant, equipping 16-18 year olds with the academic and practical skills and know-how they need to successfully progress into their chosen careers.”

Thomas Moriarty, Head of Sixth Form, GEMS Wellington Academy – Al Khail, said: “At GEMS Wellington Academy – Al Khail, we work with each pupil at a personal level to ensure their chosen pathway matches the undergraduate course of their choice through effective careers education and guidance. The BTEC International Level 3 qualification is in tune and up-to date with the latest content relating to industries such as Technology, Business, Sport and Performing Arts.

“The heart of the qualification focuses on students putting their learning into practice through real-life scenarios, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to succeed in whatever progression path students choose in the future.”

Other GEMS Education schools that offer BTEC courses include GEMS World Academy, GEMS Wellington International School, Cambridge International School - Dubai, GEMS FirstPoint School – The Villa, and GEMS Winchester School – Jebel Ali.