Our Foundation Learning programmes are designed for students to study from Entry Level to Level 1, and help learners progress to a Level 2 qualification.

Entry Requirements:

• No formal qualifications needed

• A-Levels are two-year academic courses at Level 3
• Grades are based on end-of-course exams
• Students generally choose to study three A-Level subjects
• Three A-Levels are the normal requirement for entry to university (Higher Education)
• A-Level students typically progress to university, others go on to apprenticeships and employment

Entry Requirements:

• To study three A-Level subjects, you must achieve 5 GCSES grade 4-9 including English Language and/or Maths at grade 5*.
• In exceptional circumstances you may be able to study four A-Levels. For this you must achieve at least six GCSEs grade A*/9 - A/7 in five or more different subjects, with English Language and Maths to at least grade B/6*

*In addition to these requirements subject specific entry criteria may apply

General Certificates of Secondary Education (GCSE) are typical qualifications for school leavers in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Students who do not achieve a 4/C in English language and mathematics GCSE will be required to take them (or an appropriate level qualification) as part of their programme. At East Sussex College we also offer a small programme of GCSE subjects in our ‘A Level Pathway’ course.

Entry Requirements:

• No formal qualifications needed

An apprenticeship is a job with an accompanying 'skills development programme' designed by employers in the sector. They allow for learners to gain technical knowledge and real practical experience, along with functional and personal skills, required for their immediate job and future career. Throughout the progamme apprentices are paid a wage. Apprenticeships can be studied at various levels; Intermediate, Advanced and Higher.

Entry Requirements:

• Entry requirements differ depending on the level of study and sector

BTECs are designed as specialist work-related qualifications, that teaches the skills required for working life. BTECs can be studied at a range of levels, and are usually taken as an alternative to A-Level subjects. They are typically assessed by a combination of coursework, practical projects and some exams.

Entry Requirements:

• Entry requirements differ depending on the level of study you start on

Foundation degrees are usually two year courses, and are intended to give a basic knowledge in a subject area. On completion of a Foundation Degree graduates can progress to further study to achieve a full Honours degree or apply for junior positions within their chosen industry. At East Sussex College Foundation Degrees are validated by the University of Brighton.

Higher education, or degree level courses, are level 4, 5 and 6 programmes. They are usually two or three years long, with attendance being two or three days a week. Here at East Sussex College we work with the University of Brighton and Pearson to offer Degrees and Higher National Certificates/Diplomas.

More students are studying locally through full and part-times courses to achieve their degree level courses. All of our foundation and top-up degrees are validated by the University of Brighton, meaning all degrees gained with us will have the quality and reputation associated with the University of Brighton. Our HNC/Ds are validated by Pearson and in all cases we offer the expertise and vocational specialism required for this level of study. Studying for university level qualifications at college can be more affordable, often with smaller groups, individual attention and good working relationships between students and tutors.