What can I study?
1. Full Time Courses
This is the most popular way for 16-18 year olds to learn at CAVC, with more than 5,500 people enrolling onto full-time courses each year!
You will usually study between 16-22 hours each week at a college site, plus work-related placements and other opportunities offered through the year. Full-time courses are offered in all subject areas. They are also offered at different levels: Entry Level, Level 1, Level 2 or Level 3. Usually the level you do is based on the grades you get at GCSE. However, for very practical courses such as hairdressing, brickwork or bakery, everyone starts at the lowest level to develop the practical skills needed.
When applying for a full-time course at CAVC, choose the level of course best suited to you. You can use your predicted grades for GCSE to help or speak to your teachers or our advice team at the College. The level you will study will be confirmed on enrolment and upon seeing your qualifications and results. We will work with you to ensure you are on the right level of course.
Here is a quick overview of the different levels – the types of courses at each level and typical entry requirements for each:
LEVEL 3
Includes full-time AS/A Levels or a career focused qualification such as BTEC or Extended Diploma – equivalent to 2-3 A Levels, but just in that one subject.
Most Level 3 courses carry UCAS points, so you can progress to university after successful completion. Level 3 courses develop in-depth knowledge and high level skills in a subject.
Entry requirements: usually a minimum of 5 GCSEs grade A*–C, including English and Maths.
LEVEL 2
Includes career focused qualifications such as BTEC and Diploma or NVQ 2. Level 2 courses develop a good overall knowledge of a subject.
For many career areas this is the minimum level qualification required to work in a particular industry.
Entry requirements: usually a minimum of 4 GCSEs grade D or above, ideally including English and Maths.
LEVEL 1
Includes career focused qualifications. These courses give an introduction to a subject, developing your practical skills and building your knowledge.
Entry requirements: usually a minimum of 4 GCSEs grade E - G.
ENTRY LEVEL
These courses provide an introduction to a subject. They often involve additional support for those studying the course to help your development.
Entry requirements: no formal qualifications required.
Remember
The entry requirements shown are typical; however some courses vary so please check the course information sheet on the website for exact entry requirements.
For some courses there will also be additional entry criteria such as a successful interview, audition or skills test – all to ensure the course is right for you.
2. APPRENTICESHIPS
