GCE Study Options

General Certificates in Education (GCEs, commonly known as A levels) are available in over 40 different subject areas.

They are divided into AS and A2 levels. AS exams are typically taken at the end of the first year of advanced study and lead to qualifications in their own right. However, AS qualifications also form the first half of a full A level qualification.

Normally you will need 5 GCSEs at grade C or above to do a full-time AS/A level course. Mature students may be accepted onto and AS/A level course without the normal entry qualifications.

A levels may be combined into a course of study with Vocational A levels or AS levels to achieve breadth of study.

How you will be assessed
These qualifications are assessed through a combination of external examination and/or coursework. Some subjects are studied and assessed in modules.

The level of demand for an AS is that expected of candidates half way through a full Advanced level course of study. The second half of the A level, the A2, is assessed at a higher standard, thus maintaining the overall standard of the A level.

You will also have to take a demanding final ‘synoptic’ assessment, which draws together material from across their whole course, so that you can show an understanding of how everything you have learned fits together.

Awards will be made on an A – E grading scale and students failing to meet the minimum standard for an award will be recorded as ‘unclassified’.

Progression options
AS and A levels are widely recognised by employers and universities. They provide a route into degree courses, Higher National Diplomas (HNDs) and training schemes in industry.