Qualifications

A wide range of qualifications can be applied for during Year 11 when thinking about post-16 education. Below is an overview of each of the qualifications available and the different providers where they can be accessed from. 

A levels

A-Levels are a traditionally academic route, they require a lot of independent study, reading, essay writing and revision.  A-levels keep options open and are the usual route into university or higher (degree level) apprenticeships. It is important to make sure that the choice of A-levels is ‘fit for purpose.  Doing some research for which A-levels are needed for university courses is important as there are some degrees and university courses which require you to have very specific A levels.  

Places to study A Levels: Woking College, Salesian College, Fullbrook6, Heathside

Btec

A Btec is a vocational qualification, which means that it has a career focus and is centred around the world of work. Students would study to gain skills and knowledge in their subject area, putting those skills into practice in real-life situations.

Places to study Btecs: Brooklands College, Strode’s College, Woking College

T-Level

T Levels are equivalent to three A levels, they run over two years with the intention to deliver content that meets the needs of the industry and prepares students for work, further training, or study. They offer students a mixture of classroom learning and ‘on-the-job’ experience by providing an industry placement while on the course.

Places to study T Levels: Salesian College, Brooklands College, Guildford College

Apprenticeship 

Apprenticeships combine practical training in a job whilst also studying part time. They are often paid, so offer the opportunity to learn while earning a wage. Apprentices have the opportunity to work alongside experienced staff and gain skills unique to the workplace, as well as an increasingly well-respected qualification. They are often completed over a period of one to four years.

Local Apprenticeships: Apprenticeship pathways, Local opportunities