Choosing a Course

The level of course you should study depends on your GCSE examination results, further explanation is provided below. You should also consider the following points whilst choosing which courses would suit you best.

  • Do I achieve better results in coursework or examinations?
  • Which subjects will I enjoy?
  • Which GCSE subjects am I good at?
  • Are there new subjects that I have not studied before?
  • What are my future career aspirations?

To help you decide you should consult:

  • Careers staff or Learning Partnership West
  • Parents/Carers and teachers
  • Subject specialists available at Open Evenings
  • Course leaflets for detailed information of course content
  • College Tutors at your admission interview

Two Year Full Time Programmes

Level 3
These include AS/A2 Levels, Level 3 BTECs. They all carry university entry points (UCAS points) – the difference is in the way that they are taught and assessed. Generally AS and A-levels are academic subjects that rely on examinations and coursework, BTECs prepare you for work through practical assignments and coursework. Most students take a combination of 4 courses at level 3 which can include AS/A2 Levels and BTECs (NB the Level 3 IB Diploma is equivalent to 2 A-levels and therefore equates to 2 subject choices).