Our overall pass rate for 2016/17: 99.1%

Outstanding Grade from Ofsted

The Ofsted inspection in March 2014 graded us 'outstanding' in all four key areas for

• Teaching, Learning & Assessment
• Outcomes for Learners
• Leadership & Management and
• Overall Effectiveness

In addition, nine subject areas were inspected and received seven 'outstanding' and two 'good' grades, which is the best curriculum inspection grade profile out of seven colleges awarded overall 'outstanding' under the new framework to date.

In order to raise overall standards, the government has introduced changes to A-levels. These changes are still happening, so we've broken down the points you need to know below.

What are the changes?

• A-levels are becoming linear two-year courses, meaning that you will need to study for two full years to gain the qualification.
• You will only take exams at the end of your second year. In almost all cases, these exams will count for 100% of your overall mark (see point below).
• Coursework is being removed and will only be considered in exceptional cases. In science-based subjects, practical work will not count towards your final grade, but will be awarded with a separate certificate of endorsement.
• The content that you are taught in the new linear A-levels will also change slightly.

When are the changes happening?

The new two-year style A-levels are being introduced over a three year period. This started in 2015, so some students will already be studying the new format for certain subjects. The final subjects are to be introduced in September 2017. This is the final phase. All students starting their studies from September 2017 will study the new two-year style linear A-levels for all subjects.

We run a gifted & talented programme for exceptional students. This includes:

• The opportunity to attend visits & summer schools to top universities including Oxford and Cambridge.
• An opportunity to develop research skills through the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). The EPQ is equivalent to an AS-level.
• Comprehensive advice and guidance on the UCAS application process to top universities and competitive courses such as Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science, and Law.
• Interview preparation and mock interviews.
• Help in organising work experience including placements at St Richard’s Hospital.
• The opportunity to take part in activities and competitions that will enhance your application such Maths Challenge, Biology Olympiad, STEM events and enrichment activities.
• The opportunity to be a course representative or a member of the student executive.
• The opportunity to be a member of the A-level Stretch and Challenge Academy, a virtual learning site which signposts opportunities such as revision conferences, master classes and university events.