We offer a huge choice of academic and vocational courses at a range of levels, so there are sure to be options available for your child/ward. Our modern facilities, excellent support services and knowledgeable teaching staff are there because we want to provide the best College experience possible.
Which Path is the Right Choice?
Everyone wants to succeed, but we don’t all take the same path or arrive at the same destination. We offer several different routes to our learners, from classroom based learning to on-the-job training, so whatever their ultimate goal, we have got a course for them.
- Sixth Form
Our Sixth Form is a supportive environment that provides a stepping stone to higher education and employment. There are an extensive number of A Level subjects or a wide range of Vocational courses to choose from.
- T Levels
T Levels are new courses, which follow GCSEs and are equivalent to three A Levels. T Levels combine classroom theory and a minimum of 315 hours’ Industry Placement to make sure students have real experience of the workplace.
- Apprenticeships
Combine on-the-job training in the workplace with an employer and study at College to gain relevant qualifications. Available at Levels 2, 3, and 4. Apprenticeships offer the ability to earn a wage and learn at the same time.
- Foundation Learning
Foundation Learning programmes help students progress from Entry Level or Level 1 courses onto other courses, Apprenticeships or jobs. It can also help them to build the skills they need to live independently away from home.
- Vocational Courses
Vocational courses prepare young people to work in a trade, in a craft, as a technician, or in support roles in professions such as engineering, construction, accountancy, nursing, medicine, architecture, or law.
Finding the Right Level
Students learn in different ways, so we offer routes at a range of levels to suit every type of learner. You may have seen references to ‘levels’ of course, e.g. ‘Level 2 course in Maths’. These levels are based on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF). All UK qualifications are given a level numbered 1 - 8, or ‘entry’. We advise students on which route is the best option for them to help them succeed.
| Level | Qualifications | Minimum Entry Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Entry | FLEX (Foundation Learning) | No specific qualifications |
| Level 1 | Level 1 vocational Courses | Minimum of Entry Level 3 qualifications in English Language and Maths |
| Level 2 | Level 2 vocational Courses | 4 GCSEs at Grade A*-D (new Grade 9-3) usually with English Language and Maths at Grade 4-2 |
| Level 2 | Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeships | GCSEs at Grade 9-3 in English and Maths |
| Level 3 | A Levels | 5 GCSEs at Grade A*-C (new Grade 9-4) in at least 4 subject areas, including GCSE English and Maths |
| Level 3 | Level 3 Diplomas & Extended Diplomas | 5 GCSEs at Grade A*-C (new Grade 9-4) in at least 4 subject areas, including GCSE English and Maths |
| Level 3 | Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeships | 5 GCSEs at Grade A*-C (new Grade 9-4) |
Levels 4 and above are higher education courses (university level courses).
Things to know before starting College
Helping your child/ward to make the right choices about their education needn't be daunting. Our staff are all professionals and can help you with any questions you may have.
- How to Apply
Applications can be made online through Wakefield Prospectus at school or home using your child/ward student login provided by the school. Alternatively, application forms are available from the College.
- Enrolments
After completing your application, your child/ward would usually be invited to an interview to be offered a place on the course, or options discussed for suitable alternatives. Once accepted onto a course, students will then be invited to come into College to enrol on the course at the end of August.
- Term Dates
- Get a Prospectus
- Policies & Procedures
Key Dates
We have regular Open Events where you and your child/ward can talk with our friendly tutors and take a tour of our amazing facilities. There are key points throughout the year to be aware of when making applications etc.
- September
Applications can now be sent to the College, once we’ve received it an interview will be arranged within two weeks. More information can be found on our How to Apply page.
- September/October
The College will be visiting various schools across the region for the launch of our School Leaver prospectuses.
- October
Applications can now be made online through the Wakefield Prospectus website or via our website.
Attend our October Open Events:
- Wednesday 16th October 2024, 5pm-7pm - Castleford College and Wakefield College
- Saturday 19th October 2024, 10am-12pm - Selby College
- November
Attend our November Open Events:
- Wednesday 20th November 2024, 5pm-7pm - Selby College
- Saturday 23rd November 2024, 10am-12pm - Castleford College and Wakefield College
- February
Attend our February Open Events:
- Monday 10th February 2025, 5pm-7pm - Selby College
- Wednesday 12th February 2025, 5pm-7pm - Castleford College and Wakefield College
- April
Time is running out for applications, courses will be filling up and options becoming limited, applications received by May 1st will be given priority for an interview date.
- June
Attend our June Open Events:
- Saturday 14th June 2025, 10am-12pm - Castleford College and Wakefield College
- Wednesday 18th June 2025, 5pm-7pm - Selby College
- July
Attend a New Student Day event in July to participate in course related activities, meet other students and find out what College life is like.
- August
A Level, Vocational and T Level results released, as well as GCSE results. If you need help or advice about your next steps, visit our guidance events at your school or in College.
- September
Induction week for College starters takes place during the first week of term.