What are GCSE’s?
- GCSE’s are one of the national learning routes for all 14-16 year olds; they are also open to older applicants.
- Most GCSE’s last two years.
- GCSE stands for ‘General Certificate of Secondary Education’.
- Over 50 subjects can be studied at GCSE level. This includes ‘Applied GCSE’s’ such as engineering which require learners to use their subject knowledge and skills in work-related contexts.
- As well as a GCSE Full Course, there are also GCSE Short Courses and Double Award Courses. Short Courses equate to half a GCSE and Double Award equates to two full GCSE’s.
- GCSE’s are graded from A* to U.
- Most jobs and many Post 16 courses require a minimum of 5 GCSE’s at grade A* to C including English and Mathematics. However, you will need to check with your employer or provider.
What are GCE AS & A-Levels?
- GCE A-Levels are one of the national learning routes for 16-19 year olds; they are also open to older applicants.
- Most GCE A-Levels last two years.
- A GCE AS Level stands for ‘General Certificate of Education Advanced Subsidiary Level’. This is normally the first year of your studying.
- A GCE A-Level stands for ‘General Certificate of Education Advanced Level’. This is normally your second year of your studying.
- A-Levels are graded from A* to U.
- Each grade equates to a certain number of UCAS points. UCAS points are the tariff required by Higher Education Establishments for their courses. The link below will help you understand and determine what each grade equates to. UCAS Points Tariff
Why Choose GCSE’s and GCE A-Level’s?
- GCSE’s and GCE A-Levels are a well-recognised and respected qualification for learners aged 14-19.
- The GCSE and GCE A-Level route gives you the opportunity to study more than one subject.
- If you have a particular Higher Education course or career in mind you need to check the entry requirements. For instance engineering degrees would normally require GCE A-Level Mathematics.
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