We've put together the following information to help you find out all you'll need if your child is studying, or planning to study at Wilberforce College.
Types of Qualification at Wilberforce
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Focus
Academic, subject-specific courses
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Duration
2 years
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Structure
Students will choose 3 subjects to study
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Ideal for…
Students aiming for university, especially those looking to study specific subjects at the higher education level
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Considerations
Requires strong independent study skills and a commitment to rigorous academic work
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Focus
Mixture of academic and vocational style subjects
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Duration
2 years
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Structure
Students can choose a mixture of 2 A Levels and 1 BTEC extended certificate, or 2 BTEC extended certificates and 1 A Level*
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Ideal for…
Students who want the chance to develop creative and technical skills during a BTEC, whilst developing research and analytical skills through A Levels
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Considerations
Not all universities accept BTEC subjects, research is required prior to study if the course chosen for university accepts a BTEC qualification
*Please note the Government are currently reviewing course combinations for mixed programmes. More information to following in January 2025
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Focus
Full time course in 1 subject, vocational qualification, emphasizing practical skills and real-world applications
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Duration
2 years
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Structure
Assessments are project-based, including coursework and practical tasks, rather than focusing solely on exams
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Ideal for…
Students who prefer a hands-on learning approach and wish to enter the workforce directly, pursue apprenticeships, or continue studying in a vocational area
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Considerations
Appeals to students with a practical mindset, as it offers a more flexible and less traditional approach to education
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Focus
Technical qualifications designed as a high-quality alternative to A Levels, integrating classroom learning with practical experience
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Duration
Two years, with a significant focus on industry placements (approximately 45 days)
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Structure
Students interested in skilled employment or further study in technical fields
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Ideal for…
Students who prefer a hands-on learning approach and wish to enter the workforce directly, pursue apprenticeships, or continue studying in a vocational area
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Considerations
Provides a solid foundation for entering the workforce while also emphasizing the importance of work experience
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the entry requirements?
To study any Level 3 subject/course, students need at least five GCSEs at grades 4 or above.
For high level career pathways such as Medicine, Veterinary Science, Dentistry and Law it is advised to discuss with subject leads for specific entry criteria.
How are students assessed?
A Levels
A Levels are predominantly assessed by exams, which take place at the end of the second year of study.
However, there are some subjects such as Art & Design or the main sciences: Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, which require coursework or a practical assessment. Even still, these non-exam assessments will only ever account for around 20% of the final grade.
Students will also sit exams at the end of their first year, but these won’t count towards their final A Level grades.
These ‘mock’ exams, as they are known, are used to provide students with their predicted grades, which they will use to apply to universities at the start of their second year.
Vocational
BTEC and UAL courses are primarily assessed through coursework assignments, but there may also be an exam element depending on the subject. Students receive a grade for each unit, which can be Pass, Merit, or Distinction. The points scored for each unit are added together to calculate an overall points score, which is then converted to an overall qualification grade
Internally assessed units are usually around 60% of the qualification and are assessed by the college, teachers will set and mark most assessments, and the awarding body verifies them.
What can my child do with their qualifications?
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Further Study at University
Once they have earned their A Level / Vocational qualifications, lots of students in the UK continue their studies at university
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Higher Apprenticeships
Vocational roles and apprenticeships offer training alongside a job, so by the end of your contract with the company you will have earned an additional qualification
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Employment Opportunities
A Level 3 qualification shows a good level of education, and will be valued by employers looking to fill entry-level and training positions within their company
What degree can you do with A Levels?
A Level subject choices will play a huge role in deciding what and where students study at university.
Whether students want to study a science-based subject like Medicine or Biotechnology, to art-based subjects like English Literature and Creative Writing to Architecture and History of Art, their A Level choices will be crucial in helping them to secure a place on a course and pursue further study.
Therefore, before choosing A Levels, it’s paramount that students spend the time researching the course they are interested in studying at university, so that you can make an informed decision.
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Open Days and Information Sessions
Encourage your child to attend open days at various sixth form colleges within the area. These events provide insights into course offerings, facilities, and teaching styles
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Career Aspirations
Discuss your child’s interests and career aspirations. Help them research potential career paths and how different qualifications align with their goals
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Learning Style
Consider your child’s preferred learning style. Do they thrive in traditional academic settings or prefer practical, hands-on approaches?
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Talk to Teachers and Advisors
Encourage your child to seek advice from teachers, career advisors or counsellors who can provide insights based on their strengths and interests
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Explore Combination Options
Explore whether a mixed approach might benefit your child to create a mixture of academic and skill based qualifications
Please also visit our General FAQ page for further information on study time, college life and how to apply
Parent Portal Guide
Click the button below to head to a page dedicated to explain the Cedar Parent Portal, from access to navigation.
This system allows you to view everything from your child’s timetable and assessment grades to monitoring their attendance and updating any necessary details.
