A Level

The A Level programmes at SERC are ideal for those students who have left school after obtaining their GCSEs.  The programmes would also be ideal for those who need to re-sit any A Levels, having previously not attained their desired grades.  

While each subject at A Level will enhance your knowledge in that subject, the programmes in general will develop wider skills such as:

• analytical skills
• communication skills, in particular through group work
• presentation skills
• research skills
• working with others
• problem solving

The A Level programmes are the gateway for undergraduate programmes such as Law, Psychology, Sociology, Criminology, History, Politics, English and a wide range of other degree pathways.

Students can study 3 or 4 AS Levels in their first year followed by 3 or 4 A2 Levels in their second year. Alternatively, students can study a mixture of AS and A2 Levels in the same year, including the ability to study fast-track A Levels (completing an A Level subject in one year).

To study fast-track students must have studied A Level previously. Students will usually study 1 fast track A Level in one year or a maximum of 2 fast track A Levels in one year.  This will be further explained at interview.

There is a commitment required of 5 hours attendance per week per A Level subject.

Students may choose 3 or 4 subjects from the following:

• AS/A2 Psychology
• AS/A2 Sociology
• AS/A2 English Literature
• AS/A2 History
• AS/A2 Government & Politics
• AS/A2 Religious Studies
• Level 3 Certificate / Diploma in Criminology

You will be required to complete Essential Skills in Numeracy if you do not have a GCSE grade C in Maths.

Students will be unable to study AS Psychology, AS Sociology and Level 3 Criminology at the same time but can combine a maximum of 2 of these 3 subjects alongside another A Level subject. Students will have the opportunity to take part in enrichment activities such as guest talks and course related trips.