More than a quarter of a million students will find out their BTEC results today.

With teaching and practical assessments halted during lockdown, today’s results are based on units already completed prior to the outbreak of the pandemic, and centre-assessment grades for any work that could not be completed in time. Results were then standardised by Pearson. 

BTECs provide an alternative to A levels in subject areas including health and social care or construction. Some 4,000 prospective construction workers will receive their results this year, along with 45,000 prospective health and social care professionals and 15,000 prospective engineers. According to Pearson, BTECs supply a quarter of candidates accepted by nursing degrees.

BTEC results day 2020: 'There is a shadow of doubt'

Profile: Meet Cindy Rampersaud – Pearson's BTEC champion

Background: 'It's time we examined our motives on assessments'

Cindy Rampersaud, senior vice-president at Pearson for BTECs and apprenticeships, said: “Many BTEC alumni have been central in our response to coronavirus and we’ve seen the impact these key workers have had on the UK as a whole. The class of 2020 receiving their results today will go on to be the key workers of the future and I’m thankful and grateful in advance for the positive contribution they will make.”

BTEC results day: 'Hands-on' qualifications

Matt Roberts, editorial lead at the National Health Executive, said: “Education is all about finding ways which work best for the individual and the hands-on approach of BTEC courses helps further open the door to our amazing young people. Especially in the health sector, we face workforce challenges across a wide range of roles. More people taking up vocational courses ensures the health service doesn’t miss out on vital skills, and together we can shape the health care offering of the future.”

David Lakin, head of education at the Institution of Engineering and Technology, said: “The UK is currently experiencing a shortage of engineers, so we need more young people considering Stem [science, technology, engineering and maths] careers and gaining the right balance of education and practical skills to pursue careers in the industry – the hands-on approach that BTEC courses offer is a fantastic way for young people to develop real-world experience.”