Choosing Courses
When you are choosing your subjects you should think about subjects that you enjoy and those which make a sensible combination for your chosen career or entry into higher education. Studying in Post 16 is demanding and so you will need to have been successful at GCSE level. There is an expectation that you will need to regularly work at home and so you will need to be committed to your courses and be motivated to succeed.
Entry Requirements
To study BTEC courses you will need to have achieved 5 grade 4s or better at GCSE. To study A Levels you will need to have achieved 5 grade 4s or better at GCSE (as well as achieving at least grade 4 in GCSE English and mathematics). In some subjects there are more specific entry requirements. These are indicated under each subject in the A-Z subject overviews.
A Levels
All A Levels will be a two year course with all examinations taken at the end of the two years of study.
Vocational Courses
These courses are designed to provide work-related qualifications. They give you knowledge, understanding and skills that can prepare you for employment or higher education. BTEC courses are graded as pass, merit, distinction and distinction*. All BTEC courses have a mixture of coursework and examination units.
Re-sitting GCSE English and mathematics
These are compulsory if you do not have a 4 or better already.