Shaftesbury and Sturminster Sixth Form offers one of the widest ranges of courses in Dorset, allowing students to choose from A-levels, Level 3 BTECs, Level 2 BTECs and Diplomas.

Choosing the right level and learning style will be important to your sixth form success, so here is a little more about each type of course. You can find detailed information about each course in the prospectus  (link to 6th Form Prospectus).

Level 1 and 2 Diplomas

These courses allow students to focus on one particular subject closely tied in to a particular career path.  Level 2 is the same academic level as GCSE A* to C but allows students to specialise in a particular area.   Level 1 is the same as GCSE grades D-G.

The course provides students with the opportunity to gain functional skills in English, Maths and IT. In the Sixth Form these are one year courses.  These courses would lead either to employment, an apprenticeship or Level 3 study in the field (probably at college).
Subjects available: Hospitality, Sport and Active Leisure

Level 2 Pathway

This course allows you to combine taking three Level 2 BTEC extended certificate  with retaking GCSE English and Maths (if necessary). The Level 2 BTEC courses are assessed entirely through coursework and are taught in a way which focuses on how the subjects can be applied in the world of work.  It is a one year course which allows students to progress to Level 3 courses or to gain further qualifications before entering employment.
Subjects available:  BTEC Level 2 Art, Business Studies, Health and Social Care, Information and Communication Technology, Public Services, GCSE English and Maths.

A-Levels

The traditional ‘academic’ gold standard in the UK, they are mainly exam based, although some have a coursework element.  The first year is known as AS-level and the second year A2 level.  Students typically take four subjects at AS-level and three at A2.  These courses lead to employment or Higher Education.

Subjects available:  Accounting,  Art, Applied ICT, Biology, Business Studies, Chemistry, Computing, Critical Thinking,  Drama, Economics, Ethics,  French,  General Studies, Geography, Government and Politics, Health and Social Care,  History, Further Maths, History, Law,  Maths, Media Studies, Music,  Physics,  Physical Education, Photography, Psychology, Product Design,  Spanish, Textiles.

Level 3 BTECs

These courses are equivalent to a single A-level and carry the same points on the UCAS tariff for university entrance.  They are assessed entirely through coursework and taught in a way that focuses on the application of subject knowledge.  Level 3 BTECs are two year courses and students only gain certification when they complete both years.  Students taking these courses can successfully progress to either employment or Higher Education.
Subjects Available:  Applied Science, Sport.