Understanding your Options

The course that is right for you depends on what you plan to do afterwards; whether that's getting your ideal job or going to university (in this country or abroad). It's important to know about the different course levels, so here is a quick and easy explanation of what we offer.

Level 3 courses

AS and A levels

AS levels are normally studied in the first year. The number of AS levels you take will depend on your GCSE results, your future plans and what other activities you would like to be involved in at College. As a guide, most students take four AS subjects but some take more and some less. You will have the opportunity to discuss what’s best for you when we meet you before and after your exam results. In your second year you will follow an A2 programme in the subjects you wish to continue, which will enable you to achieve the full A level award. Most students continue three of their first year subjects. You do not need to decide on your second year courses until you are nearing the end of your first year and we will give you plenty of help with this decision. See our AS and A Levels

BTEC Extended Diplomas

The BTEC Extended Diploma is a full-time two year course of study which will develop specialist knowledge, practical skills and understanding within a vocational area and gives you a qualification which is the equivalent to three full A levels. In most subjects you will be awarded a BTEC 90 Credit Diploma after the successful completion of the first year before going on to complete the full
Extended Diploma in your second year of study. The Extended Diploma is fully recognised by universities and carries UCAS points, enabling you to progress to university or directly into employment. If you want to commit to vocational study in a particular area then this could be the route for you. There are no examinations; instead your progress is continually assessed through assignments and coursework.

BTEC Subsidiary Diplomas

BTEC Subsidiary Diplomas are advanced level courses each equivalent to one full A level and taken over two years. They provide the opportunity for vocational related academic study in a range of subjects. There are no external examinations; instead your progress is continually assessed through assignments and coursework. After successful completion of the first year you will be awarded a BTEC Certificate before going on to complete the full Subsidiary Diploma in your second year. Many students successfully combine BTEC Subsidiary Diplomas with AS and A levels. The number and type is dependent on your predicted grades, career direction and progression considerations. Subsidiary Diplomas are accepted by universities and carry UCAS points. See our BTEC Subsidiary Diplomas

Level 2 courses

BTEC Level 2 Diplomas

BTEC Level 2 Diplomas are equal to four GCSEs at grade C or better when completed successfully. This one year course is offered in a range of vocational areas and combines both practical and theoretical study. Students studying Diploma courses often combine them with Mathematics or English at an appropriate level. See our BTEC Level 2 Diplomas

Level 1 courses

Level 1, Entry, Pre-Entry (Towards Independence)

Level 1, Entry and Towards Independence courses offer full-time flexible routes of study with the purpose of improving your skills to help you progress to work or on to further education and training. You will have a programme appropriate to your needs which will allow you to learn and prepare for work, improve your Maths, English and ICT and develop your personal and study skills. You will be able to start on the level 1 course if you have achieved GCSEs at grades E-G. If you have few or no formal educational qualifications then the Entry Programme could be right for you. The Towards Independence programme offers opportunities for students to progress with their education at College. You will gain national qualifications at Award, Certificate or Diploma level. See our Level 1 courses.