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Courses explained

Unsure of what level you are at? Demystify course levels and entry requirements with this handy guide.

What level is right for you? The College offers a huge range of courses at varying levels, for those wanting to progress to higher education or employment.

Choosing the right course is essential and your level of study will depend on your previous grades and qualifications, circumstances, and career plans. We have excellent progression routes through the levels so you can work your way up to where you want to be, regardless of your starting point.

Course levels

Our general entry requirements for each level are listed below. Courses may have additional entry requirements which you will also need to meet and where applicable, these requirements will be found on individual course pages.

Entry Level

This level is for students who need to develop basic skills in preparation for a Level 1 course. This level is suitable for students who need:

  • Additional learning support
  • Basic skills (Maths, English, ICT)
  • Help with English if it is not your first language

Entry requirements

There are no formal entry requirements.

Courses available

  • Entry Level vocational qualifications
  • ESOL

Progression

Level 1 course

Level 1 – Foundation

Level 1 provides a foundation of skills to enable progression onto further study.

Entry requirements

  • 4 GCSEs grade 3-2 and Entry Level 3 in English or Maths
  • You can take an assessment to determine your English and Maths level

Courses available

  • Foundation Level 1 vocational qualification(s)

Progression

Level 2 course

Level 2 – Intermediate

Level 2 develops any existing academic skills and knowledge in preparation for further study or professional training. This level is suitable for learners who need skills and knowledge for higher level study or employment.

Entry requirements

  • At least 5 GCSEs grade 3 or above, or a relevant Level 1 qualification
  • Level 1 in English and Maths or GCSE grade 9-3 in English and Maths

Courses available

Progression

  • Level 3 course – vocational or A-levels
  • Employment
  • Advanced apprenticeship

Level 3 – Advanced

This level is suitable for students with an eye on higher education or advanced entry level employment.

Entry requirements

  • At least 5 GCSE grades 9-4 or a relevant Level 2 qualification
  • Level 2 in English and Maths or GCSE 9-4 in English and Maths

Courses available

Progression

  • Undergraduate degree
  • Level 4+ course - HNC/HND
  • Employment
  • Higher apprenticeship

Level 4/5 – Higher Education

These are university degree level courses which will challenge your knowledge and thinking skills, preparing you for graduate level employment. The Higher National Certificate (HNC) is a vocational qualification, equivalent to the first year of a degree. HND (Higher National Diploma) is equivalent to the second year of a degree.

Entry requirements

  • One or more A-levels in related subjects
  • A relevant Level 3 vocational qualification
  • Access to Higher Education course
  • A relevant advanced apprenticeship

Courses available

  • BTEC Level 4 HNC
  • Level 5 HND
  • Professional courses

Progression

  • Undergraduate degree
  • Employment
  • Degree apprenticeship