Qualifications
You can study your chosen subjects in different ways, depending on whether you prefer a more academic or a more hands-on approach.
To help you decide which option is best for you, we have explained the different qualifications below.
You can also find expert guidance at our Open Events and at your interview, where we will talk through all options with you to help you find the courses best suited to your future plans.
A Level
A level courses are the natural choice if you did well in your GCSEs and wish to continue developing your knowledge and skills in the academic subjects you enjoy.
A Levels can help you prepare for a first job or further training. They also form the main basis for the traditional route into university.
At Brock we have the widest range of A Level courses available locally, including some not offered by any other sixth forms in our area.
Vocational courses
Vocational courses concentrate on giving you the knowledge and skills you need to transfer successfully from education to work.
At Brock we provide a wide range of highly recognised and fully accredited Vocational courses that are designed to help you reach your early career goals.
We also have dynamic relationships with employers who feed back to us about what they want to see in new recruits.
Level 3 courses
The Level 3 Diploma is a solid progression option if you have done well at GCSE level but now wish to engage with a Vocational course that supports your career plans. These programmes will help you develop the knowledge and skills you need for employment or Higher Education in your chosen field. Many also provide meaningful work placement opportunities.
Level 2 courses
Level 2 Diplomas are Vocational courses that allow you to focus on the career area of your choice and develop the knowledge and skills sought by employers. Thanks to our wide range of options, you have the opportunity to choose a programme that fits well with your strengths and ambitions.
Level 1 courses
Level 1 Diplomas aim to further your basic knowledge within your chosen area and improve your competence in carrying out tasks related to specific job roles.
GCSE Courses
You may want to take a GCSE subject alongside A Level or Vocational courses to complement your studies, or improve your existing grades for employment or university entry.
The majority of university courses look for at least 4s in GCSE English, Maths and often Science. Some university courses go further and ask for specific subjects at GCSE with certain grades.
Foundation Studies
Foundation Studies offers a range of entry-level and Level 1 Vocational courses that will help you work towards various qualifications, develop your personal and social skills, and prepare you for further training or employment.
We have patient and supportive staff who can help you with your study skills and give you extra support with English and Maths. You will study a range of Vocational subjects and take part in work experience placements to help you prepare for a job.
Functional Skills
Functional Skills in English and Mathematics are qualifications that equip you with the essential skills needed to learn, work and live more independently.
If you have not gained English and Maths GCSE grade 4 or above at school, it will be compulsory for you to add the relevant GCSE or Functional Skills qualifications to your Study Programme.
When we meet with you at enrolment, we will explain exactly what you will need to do to complete your Study Programme successfully.
Apprenticeships allow you to train on the job and be paid as an employee whilst also studying for a nationally recognised vocational qualification – so you earn while you learn.
Pre-Apprenticeship Certificate for Employment (PACE)
Whether you are aiming for an apprenticeship, deciding on your next step, or you wish to enter further education, this one-year course will develop your core abilities.