Pages - LearningProgramme

A typical programme for an Esher College student.

Chart showing a typical programme of study

Sample student programmes.

Student A programme of study.

Student B programme of study.

MEETING INDIVIDUAL NEEDS

We have designed the curriculum to provide you with a broad and balanced educational programme that is appropriate to your individual abilities, interests and ambitions. Your total learning programme has two elements - Core Studies and Extension Studies.

Core Studies contains courses which give you the specialist qualifications to continue your education or go on to employment. Details of these courses are included on the 'Full-time Prospectus' section of this site. Extension Studies provides a range of broadening and skills courses which enable you to develop as an individual and give you a wider view of life.

Through your Core and Extension courses, you will have the opportunity to gain Key Skills and other qualifications.

CORE STUDIES

ADVANCED LEVEL (TWO YEARS)

Students who have achieved a minimum of 5 C grades at GCSE are able to take a full Advanced level programme. Most of our students on an advanced programme progress to higher education, while some are looking for better qualifications for employment. You can choose from:

· General A levels - You take the AS level part of the course in the first year and complete the full A level (A2) in the second year.

· Applied A levels (including OCR Nationals) - These are more practical work-related A levels and consist of double award or single award courses.

· Additional AS levels - These are stand alone AS levels taken in your first year.

You can take three general A levels if you wish or a combination of general and applied A levels. Some students may choose to take just applied A levels. Most students add an additional AS level as part of their first year programme as this has become an expectation for entry to higher education, while some add a fourth A level over two years. You can take a further AS level in your second year. At your interview and at enrolment we will help you to plan what is best for you.

If you achieve 4 C grades at GCSE (which MUST include a C in English Language) you may have the opportunity to take a mixed programme of AS levels in 2 or 1 subjects combined with 2 or 3 GCSE subjects. Successful completion of these can enable you to progress to a full advanced level programme.

At interview and enrolment you will be given help and guidance in constructing the programme that is right for you.

EXTENSION STUDIES

This part of your overall programme gives you a further opportunity to extend your learning and develop your skills. You can choose from:

· Sport, drama, dance and music.

· Insight courses in areas such as Film Studies and Spanish.

· Citizenship activities such as Community Care and the Duke of Edinburgh award.

In addition all students have an entitlement to tutorial guidance and support.