Our Study Programmes

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On joining Blackpool Sixth, you will follow a full-time study programme tailored to building your future. All of our study programmes have your choice from our wide course range at their core. This is complemented by progress mentor support and optional enrichment opportunities through our 6Xtra and 6Advance programmes. Some study programmes include work placements as a compulsory element, but our Futures team can help you find excellent work experience and volunteering opportunities even if it isn't required. Alongside your chosen subjects, you will benefit from pastoral mentor support sessions and personal development via 6Xtra, 6Advance and relevant work experience. If that sounds like a lot of work, don’t worry! You will have plenty of opportunities to participate in exciting enrichment activities that match your interests and complement your study programme.

a level study programmes

Our A Level study programmes are excellent preparation for university and high apprenticeship entry. You can include up to three A Levels in your study programme - there is plenty of choice. So, if you need help understanding which subjects complement each other and get you closer to your all-important career goals, just ask.

What GCSE grades will I need?

You will need at least two GCSEs at grade 5 and three GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English language and maths to study A Levels at Blackpool Sixth. The pass grades must be in five academic GCSEs and relate to your chosen A Level courses. There may be other requirements depending on the course - you can check this on the course pages.

vocational study programme

Do you have a chosen career in mind? A vocational study programme could be for you if you want to focus on a particular industry or vocational area. Vocational study programmes include courses like BTECs, CTECs and T Levels, with Level 3 courses equivalent to A Levels. Courses are offered as single, double or triple; your study programme will include three (or the equivalent of three) courses.

What GCSE grades will I need?

You will require five grade 9-4 passes (or equivalent), including English language or maths. Some courses have specific requirements––check the individual course pages for details.

what is a t level?

T Levels are an exciting new alternative to A Levels, BTECs, apprenticeships and other 16-19 courses. Developed with employers, they are equivalent to three A Levels and combine the academic elements of A Levels with the vocational aspects of BTECs and the practical experience of apprenticeships. 

As a T Level student, you will spend 80% of the course in college learning skills and 20% in an industry placement, putting these skills into action. You will need at least two GCSEs at grade 5 and three GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English language and maths.

combined study programme

Our combined study programme allows you to include elements of vocational and A Level study (the equivalent of three A Levels) to suit your career aspirations. Combined study works particularly well when grouping related courses. If you’d like to discuss options, our admissions team can offer advice about courses that combine well to support your next steps and progression.

What GCSE grades will I need?

For the combined programme, you will need a minimum of five grade 4s, including English language or maths. There may be specific course requirements, so check the course pages for more information.

important note:

It is a national requirement that any students who do not have passes at a four or above in GCSE English language and maths re-take these courses as part of their study programme. We can fit in only one re-sit alongside level 3 study, so students who do not have a 4 in either subject should consider the Foundation Programme.

Foundation study programme

The Foundation Programme is designed for students who have just missed out on the entry requirements for our level 3 programmes. This 3 year option enables them, in the first year, to gain further qualifications at level 2 and develop the skills required for future success before moving onto a 2 year level 3 programme.

What GCSE grades will I need?

You will need 4 GCSEs at grade 3 (or equivalent) to join this programme. You must achieve at least grades two and three in either subject for English language and maths.

Read more about the programme
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