Vocational student makes the grade at Sandhurst

A new BTEC qualification that was designed in association with the British Army has produced its first student to be accepted at the prestigious Sandhurst Military Academy.

Despite more than 80% of recruits into Sandhurst having university degrees, Philip's success through the vocational channel highlights the value of the course and the changing attitudes towards recruitment. The course usually
lasts two years and is set at the standard of two A levels.

Philip Norris, 17, studied the BTEC National Diploma in Public Services at Guildford College. The vocational course provides students with a thorough understanding of the public service culture and values as well as giving
experience of team-work and problem solving. It is equivalent to three A levels.

Colonel Tim Moore said, It's a great achievement and an honour to enter Sandhurst. Students have to pass a rigorous and competitive entrance procedure and also show exceptional leadership potential. Philip is the
first recruit to have studied a BTEC in Public Services and we hope that more will follow, as the course provides a firm foundation for those wanting to enter the armed forces.

Sallyann Baldry, Business Development Manager at Edexcel, the awarding body for BTEC qualifications, said: The BTEC National Diploma in Public Services provides a great start for anyone with an interest in entering the Armed Forces or Uniformed Services. Edexcel worked with the British Army to
develop new units, so they really do reflect the skills the Army are looking for.

Philip Norris, who also won sponsorship for his training from the Royal Logistics Corps of the British Army, said, I've always loved the excitement of being in the outdoors and crawling through the mud, working out
strategies and overcoming obstacles to complete a challenge.

BTECs are internationally recognised qualifications that are applied and practical in their approach, providing the essential skills and knowledge for those entering a range of occupations and further study.