A-Level Programmes Study Mode: Full Time   |    Course Level: Level 3

Where will this course lead?

A-Levels provide an academic route for students wishing to progress to university as part of their wider career journey. If you haven't yet decided on your future career or university options, A-Levels can help you keep your options open. These qualifications are also highly-regarded by employers.

What will I study?

Accounting

This A-Level provides students with a clear understanding of an accountant's responsibilities and their impact on business and the wider environment. Students will acquire essential knowledge of financial and management accounting, enabling them to tackle financial problems and analyse data effectively. The course is ideal for numerate learners interested in pursuing a career in accountancy-related fields such as banking, insurance, retail, or public services. Through real-life scenarios, students will develop practical skills in financial analysis and making informed recommendations, preparing them for future success in industry. You will be assessed through written exam papers.

Biology

A-Level Biology is a fascinating subject. In addition to helping students understand many interesting aspects of life processes and living things, students develop relevant practical skills in well-equipped labs, alongside essential knowledge and understanding of a range of biological concepts and scientific methods. Biological mathematics and problem-solving skills are integrated into teaching and learning. The specification is divided into topics, each covering different key concepts of biology, for example, components of living things, communicable disease, genetics and exchange and transport. Teaching of practical skills is integrated with the theoretical topics, and students are assessed through written papers, alongside the Practical Endorsement which will support the development of practical skills. This course is ideal for students who enjoy scientific investigation and want to pursue a career in medicine, science or healthcare professions.

Business Studies

The A-Level Business course introduces you to all you need to know about working in business, providing a solid foundation for further study. With a focus on helping you to become a good decision maker, you'll learn essential managerial skills, alongside techniques to help you become an analytical problem solver. These skills are all highly sought after and valued in a wide range of careers, further study and career opportunities. If you'd like to study business, finance or management at university, A-level Business provides an excellent foundation. The skills you learn are transferable across a broad range of subjects and careers. Whatever you choose to do in the future, you'll find that the things you learn in this course will help. For example, you'll probably work with lots of different people, so knowledge of motivational theory will help you to work well with others and help them achieve their potential. You might have ambitious plans to start your own business. If that's the case, you'll find the marketing and finance topics particularly useful. You will be assessed through written exam papers.

Chemistry

A-Level Chemistry provides practical skills, knowledge, and understanding of core concepts across various chemistry fields, with a strong emphasis on organic chemistry. Through hands-on experimentation, modelling, and problem-solving in the lab, you'll develop essential skills such as risk assessment and effective presentation. Over two years, you'll gain confidence in decision-making and analytical thinking, preparing you for university and future careers. Chemists play vital roles in addressing significant challenges in energy, health, and materials, giving you a competitive edge in a global marketplace. You will be assessed through written exam papers.

English Literature

This course is engaging and exciting, allowing you to approach the study of literature through the ages, encouraging the independent study of a range of texts. This will allow you to develop a wide range of skills, such as the ability to read critically, analyse, evaluate and undertake independent research which are valuable for both further study and future employment. You will be assessed through written exam papers and coursework.

Offering clear progression from GCSE, this course will allow you to build on the skills and knowledge already gained and prepare for your next steps.

You will study a Shakespeare play and a poetry anthology, all through the lens of Love through the Ages or Aspects of Tragedy.

You will also study a novel and produce a piece of writing based on your own independent study.

This A-Level should NOT be studied alongside A level English Language and Literature (Combined).

History

The A-Level History qualification has been designed to help students understand the significance of historical events, the role of individuals in history and the nature of change over time. Our qualifications will help you to gain a deeper understanding of the past through political, social, economic and cultural perspectives. The engaging topics available to you throughout the course will provide you with the knowledge and skills you require to succeed as A-level historians.

You will learn about the history of more than one country or state, including at least one outside the British Isles, through different periods and themes. You will learn about different historical perspectives, for example aesthetic, cultural, economic, ethnic, political, religious, scientific, social or technological. You will be assessed through written exam papers and coursework.

Law

The A-Level Law curriculum will allow you to develop a comprehensive understanding of the role of law in today's society, alongside an awareness of the rights and responsibilities of individuals and how this applies to our lives. It also aims to enrich learning through an insight into the sector, developing your skills in both internal assessments and external examinations, whilst having the competence to develop your career. The skills you will develop through this curriculum are highly sought after by higher education and employers and will allow you to progress onto a higher-level study or an associated and challenging career such as Solicitors, Barristers, Legal Executives or Paralegals. The specification develops your analytical and problem-solving capabilities as you will learn to apply legal rules when analysing a scenario, allowing you to identify the key facts from which legal issues arise. You will learn how to formulate a legal argument, analysing legislation by applying the rules and principles of statutory interpretation and analysing case law by applying the doctrine of precedent. Using your evaluative skills, you will learn how to formulate a reasoned argument to support a particular scenario by reference to the relevant legal rules and principles that support that argument. You will be assessed through written exam papers.

Mathematics

A-Level Mathematics builds on students' prior knowledge, enhancing existing topics and introducing new concepts. Mathematics is studied both independently and as a foundational tool for Business and Science. You will develop abstract, logical, and deductive thinking skills, enabling you to construct rigorous arguments and draw sound conclusions from data. You will be assessed through written exam papers.

Psychology

This course will offer you an insight into Psychology. You will learn about the key aspects of the subject as well as develop your own academic skills including critical analysis, independent thinking, and research. You will learn about the understanding of psychological concepts, theories, research studies and ethical issues in relation to psychology. If you are interested in learning about the human mind and why we act and think the way we do, then this is the ideal choice of subject for you. Another benefit is the development of communication skills throughout your course. These skills will be invaluable in your future career within psychology. There are many career paths to consider including clinical psychologists, sports psychology, forensic psychology, health psychology and counsellors, teacher, and researcher. You will be assessed through written exam papers.

Sociology

A Level Sociology offers an in-depth study of society providing students with a comprehensive understanding of social structures, processes, and issues. The course helps explore the reasons behind social differences, group opportunities, and outcomes, as well as the significance of social hierarchies and power in everyday life. Students will cover a range of topics such as Education, Crime and Deviance, Families and Households. 

Studying the course encourages skills such as critical analysis, independent thinking, research skills, communication skills, problem-solving, and cultural awareness. These skills are not only beneficial for further education but are also highly valued in various career paths, such as social work, education, public policy, and more.  You will be assessed through written exam papers.

Subject Choice

Students must choose one subject from each of the below columns to make up their 3 A-Level programme:

Option A Choose one...

• Business Studies
• Chemistry
• Sociology

Option B Choose one...

• Accounting
• History
• Law
• Biology

Option C Choose one...

• English Literature
• Mathematics
• Psychology
• Sociology

Personal Progress and Development Sessions

In addition, all students will have a Personal Progress and Development Session each week. You will also be expected to undertake a work experience placement during your A-Level Study Programme.

Your subject choices will be discussed and confirmed at interview stage. You do not need to select them at this stage of your application.

A-Levels Handbook

How will this course be delivered?

These 2-year A-Level programmes will be delivered on-site at the College's Blossomfield Campus in Solihull.

What qualifications will I get?

You will achieve 3 x A-Levels in your chosen subjects.

How do I get a place on the course?

Once you have applied online you will be invited for an interview with one of our friendly A-Level team.

What are the entry requirements?

Unless otherwise stated below, students need 5 GCSEs at grade 5 and above - this must include GCSE English language and GCSE mathematics.

Maths and Accounting: A grade of 6 or above in Maths is required, plus four additional GCSEs graded 5 or above (this must include English Language).

Chemistry: A grade of 6 or above in both Chemistry and Maths plus three additional GCSEs graded 5 or above (this must include English Language).

You will have a positive school/college reference with excellent levels of attendance and punctuality.

What can I do after this course?

Progress to a university level course at the College or elsewhere.