Interested in learning about subjects directly related to the world of work? Want to take a practical subject? Then GCSEs in vocational subjects might be the qualifications for you!

GCSEs in vocational subjects, introduced in 2002, are qualifications that:

• relate to work in a particular vocational area, such as business, ICT or engineering
• are practical and give you a chance to learn by doing
• can be mixed and matched with other GCSEs and a variety of different courses
• are mainly assessed by coursework.

There are eight GCSEs in vocational subjects:

• applied art and design
• applied business
• applied ICT
• applied science
• engineering
• health and social care
• leisure and tourism
• manufacturing.

These GCSEs can be a first step on the ladder to further study at college and university, or to qualifications for a particular job.

If you think you would like to study a GCSE in a vocational subject, then check the information pack your school will give you to see which ones are offered at your school or local college.