AS (Advanced Subsidiary) and A’ (Advanced) Level courses / qualifications
These qualifications focus on traditional study and the courses normally take two years to complete. There is a wide choice of academic subjects available. AS and A’ Levels are one route into higher education and are useful should you wish to go straight into employment. Entry on to courses do differ and it is important to check the specific subject qualifications that are required to be able to proceed onto a course.
BTEC and OCR courses / qualifications
These courses are designed as specialist qualifications for students who have a clear view of their future career or who are seeking progression to higher education. They are an equivalent to A’ Levels and are valued by universities, further education colleges and employers. They are career related courses with a specific vocational context and can be combined with both AS and A’ Levels.
Courses and programmes of learning
A Level
Art Graphics
Biology
Business Studies
Chemistry
Economics
English Language
English Literature
Fine Art
French
Further Mathematics
Geography
German
History
Law
Mathematics
Physics
Politics
Psychology
Product Design
Religious Studies
Sociology
Spanish
Textiles
Theatre Studies
Travel & Tourism
BTEC
Subsidiary Diploma in Applied Science (Single Award)
Diploma in Applied Science (Double Award)
Subsidiary Diploma in Acting (Single Award)
Subsidiary Diploma in Creative Media Production (Single Award)
Subsidiary Diploma in Music Technology (Single Award)
Subsidiary Diploma in Art & Design - Photography (Single Award)
Subsidiary Diploma in Sport (Single Award)
Diploma in Sport (Double Award)
Extended Diploma in Performing Art - Dance (Triple Award)
OCR Level 3 Cambridge Technical Diplomas
Technical Introductory Diploma in Health, Social Care and Early Years (Single Award)
Technical Diploma in Health, Social Care and Early Years (Double Award)
Technical Introductory Diploma in I.C.T. (Single Award)
Technical Diploma in I.C.T (Double Award)
GCSE (Re-Sits)
Students who have not managed to achieve a C grade in GCSE Maths will be offered further teaching support and will be expected to retake this subject until they are successful. Most, if not all, university courses do require GCSE English Language and GCSE Mathematics at grade C. Many careers also stipulate these as a minimum requirement.
A’ Level, BTEC and OCR
Qualifications are regarded equally by universities (Oxbridge being the exception who favour A’ Level applicants along with A* and A grades at GCSE.) The majority of universities accept student entry applications on a UCAS point tariff system.
Level 3 study
The Level three study that you will undertake at Rainhill Sixth Form Centre places more emphasis on independent study and research skills. All the qualifications on offer will ensure you have many of the essential transferable skills that are required in the workplace. Our top tips for success with us are:
