Choosing your programme

We offer courses from Entry Level and Level 1 (Foundation Learning) to Level 3 (Advanced); you can even stay on and do your degree with us!

Which Level is Best for Me?

Take a look at your expected (or actual) GCSE grades and compare them with the table below. Don’t worry if you are between two levels – you can apply for courses from both. This table is only a guide to our general entry requirements. It does not cover all the possibilities – we will advise you at your Guidance Interview.

If you have at least… You can start… Course Level
6 grade As or A* in at least 3 different subjects 5 AS Levels Level 3 (Advanced)
5 grade Cs or above in at least 3 different subjects, with 2 grade Bs 4 AS Levels

BTEC National plus AS Level(s)
Advanced Specialised Diploma

5 grade Cs in at least 3 different subjects 3 AS Levels (limited choice)

BTEC National
Other Level 3 qualifications

Advanced Apprenticeship

4 grade Ds BTEC First Diploma
Childcare & Education (CACHE Level 2)

Higher Specialised Diploma
OCR Level 2 National Certificate

Level 2 (Intermediate)
2 grade Ds 4 GCSEs

The GCSE Programme
Apprenticeship
Some NCFE Level 2 Certificates

2 grade Es The Art & Design Programme
Preparation for Work Programme
few or no GCSE passes Art & Design (AQA Entry Level Certificate)

BTEC Introductory Diploma
Caring for Children (CACHE Foundation Award)
Some NCFE Level 1 Certificates
Some OCR Level 1 National Certificates
Physical Education (OCR Entry Level Certificate)
Preparation for Work Programme

Entry Level & Level 1 (Foundation Learning)