Application information for Parents/Carers
Admissions process 2024-25
What can my child study at Ashton Sixth Form College? Click here to view all courses.
A LEVELS
A Levels are subject based qualifications. You will choose to study 3 A Levels over 2 years. A Levels are assessed by written exams.
Entry reqs: A minimum of 2 GCSEs at grade 6, 2 GCSEs at grade 5, and 2 GCSEs at grade 4 including GCSE English Language and Maths (Additional course requirements must also be met).
MIXED STUDY
The Mixed Study programme allows you to combine a mix of A Level and Vocational courses (which are equivalent to 1 A Level). This option of study provides you with a mix of assessment. You will choose to study 3 subjects over two years.
Entry reqs: A minimum of 2 GCSEs at grade 5, 3 GCSEs at grade 4 including GCSE English Language and Maths (Additional course requirements must also be met).
vocational
Vocational courses allow you to specialise in a particular pathway by choosing 1 course. Full-time Vocational courses give you a real life practical experience with the knowledge to back it up. Vocational Level 3 courses are studied over two years. Entry reqs: A minimum of 5 GCSEs at grade 4 including GCSE English Language and grade 3 in GCSE Maths (Additional course requirements must also be met).
T LEVEL
T Levels are equivalent to 3 A Levels. You choose 1 course and these two-year courses focus on blending extensive industry placements with college-based learning.
Entry reqs: A minimum of 5 GCSEs at grade 4 including GCSE English Language and Maths (Additional course requirements must also be met).
Frequently asked questions
My child has applied but now wishes to change their course. Should they put in another application?
If there are any changes that your child wishes to make to their application, please contact admissions who will make these changes. Please do not submit another application.
My child is really unsure about what they want to study
Please don't worry if they are still a little unsure about their course choice. The courses they put on their application are just a starting point and we are aware that some students may want to make further changes over the coming months. It is important that they are aware of our minimum entry requirements. We can also provide further advice and guidance about courses at your child's guidance meeting or by speaking to the admissions team.
Can my child apply to more than one college?
Yes your child can apply to more than one college. It is important they have a back up option elsewhere. It is fine for them to accept a place at more than one college and make their final decision when they receive their GCSE results.
What if my child doesn't get the GCSE grades for what they want to study?
We offer a wide variety of subjects and courses and so if your child does not get the GCSE grades that they were expecting, please do not worry. There will be plenty of advisers available at enrolment to give further support and guidance. In most cases, we will be able to offer students an alternative study programme or course but it is important that they consider a back up option as part of the college application process.
Example timetables
next steps
You can start applying to the college as soon as your child knows what they want to study.
In making their decision about what they want to study, they should consider the following:
- What do they enjoy?
- What are they good at?
- What style of learning do they excel in?
- What are their predicted GCSE grades?
- What pathway is going to give your child in the best chance at success?
- Put together a shortlist
- Consider a plan B
- No decision is set in stone - it is fine to change your mind!
Click here to make an application
key dates
Friday 10th January 2025 - Application deadline
January & February 2025 - Guidance Meetings
Wednesday 24th April 2025 - Welcome evening for parents/carers
Tuesday 1st July 2025 - Induction Day for students
Thursday 21st August 2025 - GCSE Results Day
21st, 22nd & 23rd August 2025 - Enrolment
