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Choosing the Right Course

Choosing the right type of course is very important. City College offers a variety of courses for all ages and abilities ranging from leisure-based courses such as crafts and DIY, through to information technology and professional qualifications.

Age needn’t be a barrier as we have a range of levels and qualifications to suit everyone including university Level courses such as HNCs, HNDs, Foundation Degrees, Degrees and professional qualifications.

Our courses are normally divided up into Levels and range from Level 1 to Level 5. As an adult learner, we encourage you to begin your journey back into education at Level 2/3. You must meet the entry requirements of the course in order to enrol.

Level 2

Courses usually last one year

Entry Requirements:

• 2 GCSEs at Grade D or above or equivalent
• Successful College Assessment or Interview
• Pre Access/Return to Learn

The Return to Learn/Pre Access programme has been designed for anyone who wants to start to prepare for a college or university course, train for a new career, or simply develop confidence but doesn’t know where to start. Successful completion will enable you to progress on to one of our Access courses.

GCSEs

The qualification mainly involves studying the theory of a subject, combined with some investigative work. English and Maths are requirements for many jobs and college/university courses.

NVQ Level 2

NVQ is a work-based course aimed at those who are employed. NVQs are often considered the perfect stepping stone to turn industrial experience into a recognised professional qualification.

Apprenticeships

If you want to develop your future career prospects and study at the same time then an apprenticeship is for you. They are high-quality work-based training programmes that enable you to work, learn the skills of your chosen profession and gain a recognised qualification whilst earning a decent wage.

Level 3

Courses usually last two years

Entry Requirements:

• 5 GCSEs at Grade C or above (incl. English and/or Maths) or equivalent Level 2 qualification.
• Relevant Industry experience will be considered.
• Successful College Assessment or Interview
• Access Courses

Access Courses are designed for adults with no formal qualifications. They provide an excellent route to gain admission onto an extensive range of programmes including degrees, HNDs or HNCs. It is also an established and well-recognised qualification in its own right.

BTEC National Diploma

BTEC National Diplomas are vocational courses related to a broad occupational area, combining practical, hands-on activities with detailed technical study. You may also be able to take part in related work experience.

Apprenticeships (Advanced)

If you want to develop your future career prospects an advanced apprenticeship is for you. They are high-quality work-based training programmes for those with a substantial amount of industry-related experience. They enable you to work, develop the skills of your chosen profession further and gain a recognised qualification whilst earning a decent wage.

NVQ Level 3

NVQ Level 3 is a work-based course aimed at those who are employed and looking to enter a managerial or supervisory role. NVQs are often considered the perfect stepping stone to turn industrial experience into a recognised professional qualif