Vocational Programmes
How are these different from
A-Levels?

female student

So what’s different from A Level?

  • More practical/applied to work situations
  • More coursework
  • No exams
  • Different entrance criteria

And what’s the same?

  • High standards
  • Good results
  • Progression to University
  • Personal Tutor and access to any support needed

A vocational qualification may suit you if:

  • You want to go to University but have not got the grades to study A Levels
  • You have the right grades for A Level but don’t want to take a lot of exams
  • You have already decided on a career path for which a vocational qualification would prepare you best
  • You are disappointed in your GCSE results and want to make a ‘Fresh Start’ at college

When is a vocational course not the best option?

  • If you have the right grades for A Level but have no idea what career you may want – keep your options open.
  • If your chosen career/Higher Education course requires A Levels – such as Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science – you should check this out carefully with your careers adviser and/or by carrying out your own research

What if I really need A Levels for my career – but don’t quite make the grade?

If you have only just missed out on meeting our entry criteria and your chosen career requires A Levels then we may be able to offer you a place on our GCSE Gateway programme. This programme is only available to learners who have genuine reasons for joining and who have at least 2 Grade C’s at GCSE plus at least Grade D’s for English, Maths & Science. Places are limited and subject to successful interview. It is our experience that most learners who do not achieve the required grades to study A Level achieve much better success studying on a vocational programme than returning to GCSE studies.

NOT a second class option but a proven alternative route to University and employment.