All of us have different skills, aspirations, wants and needs. We want all our students to make informed decisions about their next steps.  This means knowing what options are available and considering the most appropriate option for you.

Many of our students join Brentside Sixth Form to study A levels while some join us to study BTecs in science, art and design or business studies. This year we have expanded our BTEC offer to include computing, drama-perofrming arts and sport. For others, Technical Level Qualifications (also known as T Levels) may be a good option. These are offered at local colleges and a very small number of sixth form schools. 

A Levels

This is the most common pathway at Brentside High School. Find out more to see if A levels are the most appropriate pathway for you.

Understanding A-levels in England: Challenges, resits, and student experiences - BBC Bitesize

BTECs

Many industry sectors have a set of National Occupational Standards that professionals must follow. The learning content of BTECs is built around these National Occupational Standards, which is why BTECs are recognised as valuable qualifications by the Standard Setting Body (SSB) and/or Sector Skills Council (SSC) for each industry.
This means that you can trust that studying a BTEC will give you the knowledge, understanding and skills to prepare you for further study, training and employment.

BTECs: What are they and how are they graded? - BBC News

BTECs at Brentside

Mixing A levels and Vocational courses

If you think you may want to mix A levels and vocational qualifications, then you may find this useful.

Can I mix A levels and vocational qualifications? - BBC Bitesize

 

Technical Levels (T Levels)

If you are in Years 9-11, please download the T Levels information pack here or from the link below for more details. You can also visit the official government website for up-to-date information.

ABOUT T LEVELS

T Levels are a 2-year qualification that you can do after GCSEs as an alternative to A levels, other post-16 courses or an apprenticeship. They have been designed with leading businesses and employers to give you the knowledge and skills you need.

T level students spend 80% of their time in the classroom and 20% on a 45-day placement with an employer, giving them skills and knowledge companies look for. Their industry placement gives them the chance to learn what a real career is like while they continue their studies.

EQUIVALENT TO 3 A LEVELS AND AWARDED UCAS POINTS

T Level will be worth UCAS points (a T Level Distinction* is worth the same as 3 A levels at A*) and will be recognised by universities and other education providers so you can choose to continue studying if you wish. 26 of the top 50 universities in The Guardian’s Best UK Universities 2022 Rankings have agreed to accept T Level students (as of August 2022). See the universities accepting T Levels on GOV.UK