A Levels

What to expect at A Level.

A Levels are hard, there is no denying it! You must mentally focus in order to prepare yourself for the tough times - and be aware that you will have a lot of independent study to do away from the classroom.

  • Fewer Subjects, Deeper Study
    You will study fewer subjects than at GCSE level, but in much greater depth.

  • Independent Learning
    Expect to spend just as much time studying outside the classroom as you do in lessons.

  • Study Periods
    Your timetable will include designated study periods. You can use this time to catch up on extra reading, homework or set tasks at home or in the special study areas at college.

  • A Levels are subject-based qualifications offered in the UK and internationally. Typically taken by students aged 16–18, they are highly regarded by universities and employers worldwide.

  • A Levels are considered excellent preparation for university because they develop in-depth knowledge, independent study skills, and academic discipline.

  • Students typically take 3 different A Level subjects. You can also add the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), which is equivalent to half an A Level in UCAS points.

  • A Levels are a big step up from GCSEs and take 2 years to complete.

  • A Levels open doors to university, higher apprenticeships, foundation degrees, and employment in various industries. They’re a strong platform for both academic and vocational routes.

Prepare for success

Complete your A Level summer tasks and bring them to your first lesson – it’s your first step towards a strong start.

Complete Your Subject Tasks
Finish the subject-specific tasks over the summer.

Bring Them to Your First Lesson
You’ll need your completed work for each subject in September.

Use the Study Resources
Below you’ll find some study resources to help you make a strong start and bridge the gap from GCSE to A Level.

Develop a mindset for study

The VESPA model looks at various aspects of your mindset for study.

This looks at various aspects of your mindset for study, taking into account not just subject knowledge, but time management, effort and strategies to support stress. Each activity that you complete will relate to one of the key components below.

  • VISION: Knowing what you want to achieve

  • EFFORT: How many hours of proactive independent study you do

  • SYSTEMS: How you organise your learning resources and time

  • PRACTICE: How you practice and develop your skills

  • ATTITUDE: How you respond constructively to setbacks​

Practice your study skills

Keep developing your maths and academic writing.

It’s important to stay on track and keep practising your English and maths to be ready for college in September.

Some additional useful websites and books to read:

  • Steps to Academic Writing, Marian Barry

  • Polish your Academic Writing, Helen Coleman

  • www.onmaths.com - interactive online papers for most exam boards, for all exam sessions. As the student works through the paper, there are two marks, one for the student's correct answers so far and one for what grade they would be on if they were getting everything correct.

  • www.mathsgenie.co.uk - this is topics grouped by grade with links to past GCSE questions for revision, and the worked solutions are available. Also has links to past papers.
    www.mathedup.co.uk/gcse-maths-takeaway

  • www.corbettmaths.com - lots of resources. Use the 5-a-day worksheets - they are a mixture of topics to keep students on the ball.

  • www.justmaths.co.uk - normally a teacher only resource but the revision maths for GCSE are excellent and are available for anyone to download at this present time.

Discover where your course can take you

Not sure what jobs your course could lead to?

Explore career options linked to the subject you’ve applied for. From real-world job roles to industry insights, you’ll see how your studies at New City College can help you build a successful future.

We’re officially Outstanding!

New City College has been rated Outstanding by Ofsted (March 2025) — the highest grade possible.

Inspectors praised our inclusive culture, exceptional teaching, strong student support, and inspirational leadership. We’re proud to be the largest college in the UK to achieve this top rating — and even prouder of what it means for our students.

Top tips

Stay organised from day one

Use a planner or app to track deadlines, assignments and revision. Always schedule time to complete your workload!

1

Use active revision techniques

Don’t just re-read, test yourself, teach someone else, or use flashcards.

2

Keep a balance

Avoid burnout. Make time for rest, hobbies, and your social life. A fresh mind absorbs more.

3

Meet Rhys

“New City College has provided me with all the skills I need for the next steps in my education.”

_N7A6817.jpg
_98A1772.jpg
_N7A6064.jpg
_N7A6215.jpg

Ask us almost anything

  • College isn’t just about studying — it’s about getting ready for the real world. At New City College, you’ll have access to over 1000+ employers who offer work experience, set live projects, mentor students, and even come in as guest speakers.

    From day one, you’ll start building the skills, experience, and contacts that employers are looking for — giving your CV a serious head start.

    And college life? It’s more independent and more grown-up.

    • No uniform

    • First-name terms with your teachers

    • A more flexible timetable

    It’s a big step forward — and we’re here to help you make the most of it.

  • Yes.

    Many of our students from both our A level, T Level and vocational study programmes progress to university.

  • No.

    Yes, we expect you to work hard — but we’ll be with you every step of the way.

    You’ll have regular one-to-one sessions with your teachers to set goals, track your progress, and get extra help if you need it.

    We’re here to push you, support you, and keep you motivated — so you can do your best and achieve more than you thought possible.

  • Feeling nervous? You’re not the only one.

    Starting something new can feel like a big deal, but we’ve made sure the move to college is smooth, welcoming, and fun.

    Before you start, you’ll be invited to an applicant taster sessions where you can meet your teachers, get to know other students, and explore the campus.

    Once term begins, you’ll take part in induction activities and our Freshers Fair — a great way to settle in, make friends, and get a taste of college life.

    And if you ever need support, our teachers and friendly support teams are always here to listen and help.

  • If you’re not 100% sure on what to study, that’s totally okay — we’re here to help you figure it out.

    The best choice is something you enjoy and feel confident in.

    If you're still deciding, come to one of our enrolment events or taster sessions. You’ll meet teachers, chat with current students, and get a real feel for what suits you.

    And if you change your mind after applying? No stress. At enrolment our friendly team can help you switch to a course that’s a better fit.

    Or if you decide that you’re not enjoying it after the first few weeks of study, you will have the chance to swap to a different course at our transfer event.

  • We offer courses from Level 1 to Level 3. Each level of programme has different entry requirements, which are the different GCSE grades you need to get on the course. You’ll find these on each course information page.

    Don’t worry if you don’t get great GCSE grades, we have Level 1 courses that don’t tend to have entry requirements. You can then work your way through the levels.

    Some courses will also provide you the opportunity to retake your English and/or Maths GCSE alongside your full-time programme.

Discover your campus