What can I study?

The Sixth Form Academy at City of Bristol College offers one of the largest range of qualifications in the area.

Students are encouraged to combine different types of qualifications, studying A Levels alongside BTEC qualifications. This new approach to learning allows each student to create an individual, tailor-made curriculum that matches their interests.

Overview of qualifications

A Levels (Level 3)

An A Level consists of four modules. The first two modules make an AS Level, and the other two are A2 Level. You will usually study three to four AS Levels in your first year, at which point you decide which AS levels to take forward to A Level (generally three).

As an A Level student, you will usually be in College five days a week. Most students who study four AS Levels in their first year will leave College with three A Levels and one AS Level.

BTEC Diplomas (Level 3)

Made up of 18 units, a BTEC Level 3 Diploma is equivalent to three A Levels. If you study 12 units you qualify for a BTEC Certificate, and six units means you qualify for a BTEC Award.

Assessment is mostly by projects and assignments, with some external assessments. In general BTEC qualifications are more practical in nature than A Levels.

Studying a two-year BTEC National Diploma course usually means you are in College three days a week.
See what National Diploma Interactive Media with Game Design students created as part of their course.

Not only is their website (see left) a showcase of their work, it also gives you information about the course itself.

BTEC Diploma (Level 2)

A Level 2 Diploma consists of six units, all of which are assessed internally by projects and assignments. Studying a BTEC Level 2 Diploma is perfect preparation to move on to a Level 3 Diploma. This is a one year course and usually means you are in College three days a week.

GCSE+

The GCSE+ programme is designed for students who have been genuinely disadvantaged during their time at school. The programme consists of four or five GCSEs. Studying this one-year course prepares you to move on to a level 3 course and usually means you are in College four or five days a week.

How to apply

It’s easy to apply for a course at the Sixth Form Academy.

Find out more

If you want to make an appointment to find out more courses at the Sixth Form Academy call 0117 312 5000 or email enquiries@cityofbristol.ac.uk