News: Studying A Levels at College vs School. What’s the difference?

We’ve put together a few key differences between studying A levels at College vs school, and explain why choosing to study at a sixth form college like High Pavement could give you the advantage when it comes to preparing for university-level study, or future employment. 

Unlike school sixth forms where teachers often teach multiple subjects, year groups and qualifications, our dedicated team of lecturers specialise in teaching A Levels. This means you get the specialised teaching and support that you need. 

High Pavement is based right next door to Nottingham Trent University’s City Campus where you can immerse yourself in student life, and gain a new level of independence that school can rarely offer. Our city centre location means we are easily accessible by all major public transport links too.

As well as being assigned your own personal tutor, we have achievement coaches, careers advisers and student services staff based at High Pavement so they are available to support and guide you.

At school, teachers usually have to juggle their knowledge of UCAS and availability to give advice with their teaching commitments. We have specialist UCAS advisers at High Pavement to help with choosing your options, completing your UCAS application and preparing for interviews. 

Unlike school where you are often studying amongst younger students, High Pavement is a mature and inspiring learning environment. You’ll meet loads of fellow students who’ve also chosen A Levels so you’ll find you have lots of support, and the opportunity to make new friends. 

Studying A Levels in a school environment often means sharing learning facilities with lots of year groups. High Pavement has everything you need on site, including well-equipped classrooms and great facilities, such as our Learning Centre with over 70,000 resources, study areas, group work spaces and computers. 

If you are studying a creative course such as A Level Art and Design or A Level Photography you’ll study these at our Adams Building. Based in Nottingham’s Creative Quarter, the Adams Building is home to our industry-standard workshop and studio spaces. 

High Pavement has over 20 A Level programmes to choose from (one of the widest offerings in the region), including three new A Level subjects starting this September — Law, Philosophy and Religious Studies. We can also cater for lots of subject combinations so you won’t be disappointed. 

Whilst completing your studies you will also have the opportunity to work towards extra qualifications such as The Extended Project.

Unlike many schools, we offer a full enrichment timetable outside of lessons to enhance your college experience. You could represent the College in a sports team, learn a new skill, boost your CV, take part in a trip, or join a club or society. 

Enrichment opportunities have included trips to theme parks such as Alton Towers, driving theory, British sign language, ice skating, boxing, tai chi, yoga, volleyball, football, netball and much more. Some of our students are even representing the college nationally at sports fixtures across the country!

Considering your post-16 options? A Levels aren’t the only choice!

Did you know Nottingham College offers one the widest range of courses and study options for school leavers in the region? Whether you want to study A Levels at High Pavement Sixth Form, kick-start your career with one of our vocational courses or earn while you learn with an apprenticeship, we have an option for you!

You still have time to join us this September! If you’re not 100% sure what you would like to study then don’t panic, you can apply for more than one course and decide nearer the time. 

We also have a team of Careers Advisors available virtually and over the phone to offer advice, guidance and support.