What are GCSEs?
The General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) is the name of a set of British qualifications, taken by secondary school students, at age of 14-16. GCSE courses are taken in a variety of subjects, which are usually decided by the students themselves. Study of chosen subjects normally begins at age 14 (Year 10), and final examinations are then taken at age 16 (Year 11). |
What are A-Levels?
The A-level, short for Advanced Level, is a General Certificate of Education qualification, usually taken by students in the final two years of secondary education (the Sixth Form), after they have completed GCSEs. |
How many subjects can I choose?
At GCSE level, students generally choose an average of eight subjects and at A-Level, three to four is the usual number of subjects taken. However, in consultation with the college, students may choose to study fewer subjects. |
What are the lessons like and will I get homework?
There will be homework in every subject, the amount depending on the type and level of the subject. The duration of one lesson (period) is 50 minutes. At GCSE, there will be three periods per week per subject, so with an average of eight subjects, a GCSE student will have a 24 period week plus study lessons. At A-Level, the lessons are generally double - i.e. two periods; there will be four periods per week per subject plus two periods of workshops and personal tutorials. |
Do I need to buy materials or equipment?
Any material or equipment required for a subject, will be provided by the college. |
Can I leave the premises during the day?
Every student is allowed to leave the premises, provided that he or she has a free lesson and has permission from their parents at the beginning of the year. When arriving at or leaving the college, the students will be asked to sign in and out at the reception. |
What are vocational courses?
Vocational courses are career-specific, this means the course relates to a specific area of employment or industry sector. Vocational courses tend to be practical and skills-focused, and many include work-related projects or work experience. Assessment of vocational courses is on a continuous basis and students are required to complete practical tasks and assignments throughout the year. |
What next?
Upon successful completion of one's qualifications, one will be able to either choose to go to university or pursue a career in gainful employment. |
