Pathways & Entry Requirements

All A Level courses starting in 2017 have changed to “linear” courses where the intention is that qualifications are taken after 2 years of study. As a provider it is our intention to ensure that students start on courses they will successfully complete. In most cases students will start 3 two-year courses with the intention that they complete 3 full A levels or BTEC Subsidiary Diplomas/Extended Certificates at the end of a two year period.

In the rare case that a student is leaving the sixth form before completing a two year course staff will advise on the correct strategy in relation to maximising the outcome for the student before they leave. This may involve taking an AS qualification at the end of the first year but only where sufficient content has been studied to make this a successful outcome.

Changes are also being made to Level 3 BTEC qualifications.

These qualifications have moved away from the system of 100% internal assessment and are moving to “mainly internal assessment” with “selected units assessed through external tasks, performances or written exams to support HE and employer preferences for a balanced approach to assessment.”  Students are still able to combine 2-year A level courses and Level 3 BTECs to create a programme of study.

We treat students as individuals and at this time of change we are keen to provide the best structures to allow the best outcomes for students.

For students who have not yet achieved the qualifications to access a full Level 3 study programme, the 1-year Level 2 programme gives the opportunity to improve English and Maths GCSE grades and learn new skills while preparing students for training, apprenticeship or Level 3 study.

As well as deciding on the right level of study, it is equally important to think about how you learn. At Shaftesbury and Sturminster Sixth Form we understand that different students show their potential through different assessment systems and learning styles. While some students perform at their best in subjects assessed through exams at the end of the year, other students do better in qualifications which are assessed mainly through coursework and which place less emphasis on recalling factual information under tight time restrictions.

Thinking about which learning style suits you best is particularly important in the light of the changes to A-levels. All material will be assessed in the summer of Year 13. This is why in both the Level 2 and Level 3 pathway we offer students the ability to choose between mainly coursework based qualifications (BTECs) and examination based qualifications (GCSEs and A-Levels).

A-levels and Level 3 BTECs are at the same academic standard. Each qualification is worth the same number of university entrance points and both are widely recognised by employers. Most universities accept both A-levels and BTECs, however some of the most competitive universities may prefer A-levels for courses such as Law and Medicine.

Level 2 Entry Requirements

The general entry requirement for study at Level 2 is five GCSEs at grades 9-3 (A*-E) and suitability for the individual components of the pathway that you have chosen. All students who apply for the level 2 pathway will have a guidance interview to discuss exactly what options they would like to study and their progression plans. To do well on this course you need to be organised, have the ability to meet deadlines and be keen to succeed.

Level 3 Entry Requirements (A Levels & A Level-equivalent courses)

The general entry requirement for study at Level 3 is five GCSEs at grades 9-4 (A*-C) including English Language and Maths. Many subjects require grades 9-6 (A*-B) at GCSE in the relevant subject. Please see the individual course descriptions for details of the entry requirements for each course. Students who narrowly miss English or Maths but gain 5 other 9-4 (A*-C) grades may be offered a place with provision to retake if these subjects do not form part of the subject specific entry requirements.

Students from overseas

If you are applying from overseas and not taking GCSEs or IGCSEs we will ask you to sit tests to identify which is the right pathway for you.

English and Maths GCSE

Any student who has not achieved at least a grade C/4 in English or Maths GCSE (or equivalent) will attend lessons and be supported to take these exams.