All about A Levels
A Levels are academic qualifications that are recognised by employers and universities in the UK and throughout the world. Whether you want to go to university or you hope to go straight into a career such as Accountancy, A Levels are for you.
One advantage of A Levels is that you can combine a range of different subjects rather than focus on just one. So, you could study Film Studies and Drama and Theatre Studies alongside English Language and Psychology, or you could study History and Art alongside Law and Environmental Studies; the choices are almost endless.
How are they organised?
A Levels are two-year qualifications. In the first year, students take AS Levels, usually studying four subjects.
In the second year students take their A2 Levels. These are more difficult than AS Levels and a student would specialise in either three or four subjects.
An AS Level and an A2 Level combined make a full A Level.
What grades do I need to get in?
We expect students to have a minimum of five GCSEs in academic subjects A*-C including at least a C in English. We will count Level 2 Btec Diplomas towards this total, but only Merits and Distinctions will be counted and each diploma will count as one GCSE. Many of our students will have much more than this. Please see the individual subjects for entry requirements.
What can I do after A Levels?
Most students go onto university after completing their A Levels. However, it is not the only route. Other students go straight into employment, take up an apprenticeship or take a gap year as they plan their next move.
A Levels are well regarded by employers. In addition to academic study, A Levels develop important competencies such as independent thinking, study skills, team working, research and analysis. We have an extensive careers service who can give advice on getting into employment.
If students do decide to apply for university, the process takes place during the Autumn term of their A2 year. Central Sixth will arrange visits to local universities as well as providing detailed advice as to degree choices, universities, the UCAS (University and College Admissions Service) application process and how to get into the institution of your choice.
You will also have access to a ‘High Flier Coordinator’ who offers additional support and guidance for those students seeking entry to competitive courses at prestigious universities including advice on personal statements, help on entrance exams for subjects such as Law and Medicine and coaching on interview techniques.