How to choose the right course for you

  

The College has a reputation for the successful delivery of A Levels, AS levels, Applied A levels, GNVQs and BTEC National Awards and Certificates. We are the best Sixth Form College in the area and our A level and Vocational results speak for themselves.

Choosing your course

To help you choose the right course, we have provided you and your parents with a brief summary about each of the types of courses we offer.

GCSEs

These are well known qualifications, but at College they are taken over 1 year. Maths, Science and English can be taken alongside A/AS levels
or BTECs.

GCE A/AS Levels

These are traditional academic qualifications which give specialist in depth knowledge of the individual subject. The assessment is by formal examination and in some cases an element of coursework. Choosing your combination of A Levels is an essential ingredient in your eventual success and choosing subjects you already enjoy is always a good start. However your choices may be influenced by your future choice of degree or employment so please seek guidance either from your careers teacher, college subject tutors or the college Student Services team, who will be happy to assist you in your decision.

NVQS

NVQs are aimed at students who wish to develop skills, knowledge and understanding for a specific type of career (e.g. Hairdressing or Beauty Therapies). They focus on the skills and knowledge expected by employers. They are assessed through real work situations and student portfolios. They can be studied from Levels 1 to 5.

You might train for an NVQ through Full Time College or through an Apprenticeship or Advanced Apprenticeship.

The New Diploma

Diplomas are qualifications for 14-19 years olds. They are for young people of all abilities who want to learn in different environments by providing opportunities in a variety of places - school, college and the workplace.

They will allow you to achieve a qualification that has a mix of classroom and practical learning.

BTEC National Extended Diplomas

These courses provide a vocational route for students wanting to progress onto higher education or employment. Students study at a number of levels depending on GCSE results with the full Diploma running over 2 years and equates to 3 A Levels. Students can combine A Levels with National Diplomas, this must be discussed with a tutor.

BTEC Level 2 Qualifications

These courses provide a good foundation for many students wishing to follow a particular vocational route. The programme runs for 1 year and can lead onto BTEC National. Most work is assignment based and you will develop practical skills.

BTEC Level 1 Qualifications

These courses provide an opportunity for students who have fewer than 4 grades D at GCSE to progress. Courses last for one year and work is assignment based. Students can progress onto intermediate programmes, e.g. BTEC Level 2 Qualifications.