There are a few options available to young people over the age of sixteen who want to take A-level and other higher education exams. Many schools do not provide sixth form study programs, and so many students find themselves trying to decide if they should stay at their current school or move on to sixth form college. There are a number of advantages, as well as disadvantages, when it comes to options for continuing study.
There are several questions that need to be answered before you settle on a sixth form college. First, you need to decide what your field of study is likely to be. Many colleges are specialized, and have a very limited number of majors, such as performing arts schools or vocational schools. Also, look for colleges that have a good reputation in your field – are their graduates well-received when looking for a job? Second, determine how much you and your family can spend for tuition, fees, and other costs. Will you be able to pay the higher expense of an independent college or are you more comfortable with the price of state supported facility? Third, are you going to be able to travel?
There are several reasons to attend a sixth form college. You may be embarking on a career that requires apprenticeship or prior experience and education. You may want to continue studying some of your favorite subjects in A-level courses, especially if you have already gained high grades in them at GCSE. But not everyone is sure of where they want to go, so a sixth form college can help you find your true calling.
If you opt to remain as a sixth former at your school, you will probably earn more privileges and a higher degree of freedom than those students who are behind you. Independent study is strongly encouraged. The method of instruction will depend entirely on the place you choose, and can vary widely between each school or sixth form college. Some favor classroom lectures while others prefer a more hands-on approach with practical workshops. Even testing methods are different, and may include a continuous assessment over the term or one all-encompassing exam at the end.
When researching which sixth form college is right for you it is important to look at class sizes as well as the student success rate. You can apply to several different colleges at once and attend their open days to see what each place is like. Each sixth form college has a different application deadline and, as competition for places can be fierce for popular courses, you may want to start applying in the Autumn term to make sure that you will get in.
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