Our range of AS and A2 courses give you everything you need to gain access to university, higher level apprenticeships, or enter the world of work. Even if you’re not sure where you want to go in life, we can help you to broaden your skills and experience so that you’re prepared for any future opportunity.
The combination of A Level subjects you choose is super important, as some professions and university degrees have essential requirements. Head to our A Level pathways page to explore which subjects are essential and useful for typical degree courses.
A Levels are subject-based qualifications which you usually start straight after your GCSE’s.
If you are thinking about going to university, most courses require specific A Levels, however if you’re not sure what career is right for you, choosing a selection of A Levels is a good way to keep your options open.
It takes 2 years to complete a full A Level qualification, your first year is known as lower sixth and your second year is where you complete your formal assessments.
You can choose up to 4 subjects to study however most students take 3 to ensure that they can manage their workload effectively.
There is no pressure to take more than 3 subjects as this is the minimum entry requirement for all universities.
When choosing your subjects, it’s important to take into consideration your career goals, which subjects you enjoy, and which subjects you know that you will secure a good grade in.
Make sure to read an overview of the course content to ensure you will be studying modules that you are interested in. There are no compulsory subjects but it’s best to check university entry requirements if you have a particular degree subject in mind.
Here at Queen Alex, we ask for a minimum of 5 GCSE’s at grade 4-9 for the majority of subjects. We usually look for grade 6 or above in subjects that you would like to pursue at A Level, but entry requirements are reviewed on an individual basis.
Assessments vary slightly between subjects, some include a practical coursework element, but for the majority you will sit exams at the end of your second year. This will determine your final grades.
A Levels are graded A*-E. Any exams that you sit in your first year of study will not count towards your final grade.
When studying for your A Levels, you will notice that you don’t have as many lessons on your timetable, this is because you are required to complete more independent study than you would have through your GCSE’s.
Although there is more independent study, your tutors are always on hand to answer any questions and provide support when you need it. You will also notice that your classes are a lot smaller than you are used to in school. This is a great opportunity to get to know your classmates and your tutors.
The majority of A Level students look to progress onto Higher Education at university, but there are opportunities to get into an apprenticeship or higher-level apprenticeship, further study, training or go straight into work depending on your career goals.
There are a number of differences between BTECs and A Levels, including the teaching style, assessment methods, and amount of practical experience.
Essentially, if you study A Levels, you will be taught in a similar style to your lessons at GCSE, whereas with BTECs, you will combine any theory with practical work so you can apply what you learn. Additionally, with A Levels, you are assessed through exams at the end of your final year. If you know that exam pressure isn’t for you, BTECs may be the answer as they are assessed throughout the year, which spreads out the work that contributes to make your final grade.
At Queen Alex, we hold an Advice and Enrolment night on the first Tuesday of every month.
This is a great opportunity to speak with our tutors and determine which subjects might be right for you. Our School Liaison team are also available to offer advice and guidance. You can simply drop them an email or phone call at any time, and they will be more than happy to help.
Our team is always ready to help. So if you have questions on courses, your career, or anything else, complete this contact form and we’ll be in touch.
