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A-Level Courses

At Cardinal Newman, we offer over 30 different A-Level courses.

Students can choose from a wide variety of subjects from those that you may have done at school, such as History or Maths, to new subjects such as Psychology or Sociology, there is something for everyone here! All of our A-Level courses must be studied as part of a full programme of study and will take two years to complete. It is also possible to mix BTECs with A-Levels, if you think this may be a good option for yourself, please check out our range of BTEC courses.

Take a look at our list of A-Level courses listed below to find out more about the subjects to help you to decide what might be the right combination for you.

Choosing the right path for your post-GCSE education is a pivotal decision that sets the stage for your future academic and career pursuits. At Cardinal Newman College, we understand the importance of this choice and are dedicated to providing enriching A-Level courses that cater to a diverse array of interests and aspirations.

With over 30 A-Level courses to pick from, our aim is to empower students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to excel in their chosen fields and beyond.

What are A-Levels?

A-Levels, or Advanced Level qualifications, are a key part of post-GCSE education in the UK, tailored for students aged 16-19. At Cardinal Newman, we offer a diverse selection of A-Level courses aimed at deepening student understanding of specific subjects.

This two-year programme enables students to focus on three to four subjects, chosen based on their interests and career aspirations, preparing them for further education, training, or employment.

What can I expect when taking A-Levels?

When taking A-Levels, you can anticipate a rigorous yet rewarding educational journey, focusing on in-depth study across your chosen subjects.

With a mix of examinations and, for some creative subjects, coursework, you’ll experience a comprehensive assessment method that reflects your learning and achievements.

What A-Level subjects are there?

At Cardinal Newman, we are proud to offer over 30 different A-Level courses – all of which must be studied as part of a full programme of study.

This selection includes familiar subjects from secondary education as well as new subjects that students may not have encountered before. Here are some of the subjects available:

Sciences such as Biology, Chemistry, and Physics
Humanities including History, Geography, and Politics
Arts like Fine Art, Drama, Theatre Studies, and Music
Modern Languages including French, German, and Spanish
Mathematics and Further Mathematics
Social Sciences such as Psychology, Sociology, and Economics

This varied selection allows students to tailor their studies to their interests and career goals, providing a strong foundation for future success.

What qualifications do I need to take A-Levels?

To study A-Levels at Cardinal Newman, the general entry requirement is five GCSEs at grade 5 or above.
Specific subjects may have additional requirements. Therefore, checking the specific requirements for each course is essential.

What if I don’t meet the entry criteria?

If you don’t meet the entry criteria for A-Levels, don’t worry. We treat each case individually. On GCSE Results Day, we will look at your grades to figure out an alternative plan that works for you.

This means there’s flexibility and support to help you find the right path, even if things don’t go exactly as planned initially.

What are the benefits of A-Levels?

Taking any of our A-Level courses can bring a wide variety of benefits and skills you can use, both in and out of college.

You will develop critical skills like analytical thinking, research, and communication, valuable in any future endeavour. Also, achieving strong A-Level results is not only fulfilling but also boosts your confidence and readiness for future challenges.

Can I study A-Levels as a mature student?

Occasionally, mature students enquire about our A-Level Courses. We are a Sixth Form College, which means our A-Level programmes only cater for 16-18-year-olds.

However, we do have a variety of University Courses and an Initial Teacher Training Programme.

What can you do after A-Levels?

After completing A-Levels, you have several pathways to consider. You can dive into the workforce, finding jobs that may offer further training opportunities for career advancement. Another option is to pursue higher or degree apprenticeships, which combine work experience with university study.

Alternatively, you might consider higher education qualifications like Higher National Certificates, Diplomas, or foundational degrees, which are shorter and can later be converted into a full degree. Finally, applying for university is a common route, with A-Levels serving as an essential requirement for many degree courses.

Why choose Cardinal Newman College?

Choosing Cardinal Newman College for your A-Level studies places you at one of the top-performing Sixth Form Colleges in the country. Our exceptional status is confirmed by our “Outstanding” Ofsted rating in February 2023.

This recognition reflects our dedication to ensuring students pursuing A-Levels receive the best possible education and support, helping them to reach their utmost potential.

How do I apply?

Applying to Cardinal Newman College is straightforward and entirely online. You’ll be guided through a series of steps to enter your personal details, select your course choices, and input your predicted grades.
For a detailed guide and to start your application, be sure to visit our Apply page.