Admissions and Choosing Your Subjects
Entrance to the Sixth Form
At Carmel College Sixth Form, entrance is not determined by religious affiliation. We treat all applications equally, offering places based on commitment and merit. Our goal is to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where every student is valued and supported as they work towards their academic and personal goals.
Choosing Your Subjects
Choosing the right programme of study for your Sixth Form years is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. The subjects you select now will play a significant role in shaping your future career and academic path, so it’s essential to make informed choices. While it can be tempting to choose subjects based purely on interest or enjoyment, it’s equally important to think about where your strengths lie and what you might want to pursue after Sixth Form.
At Carmel College, we offer a diverse range of over 30 subjects, including A Levels, BTEC & Level 3 Courses, and Cambridge Technical Level 3 Courses. This allows you to tailor your studies to your academic interests and future aspirations. Our staff are here to help you make the best decisions for your future.
Subject Requirements and Expectations
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Minimum Study Load: All students are expected to study a minimum of 3 subjects in Year 12. However, we also allow students to study 4 subjects if they feel confident in managing the workload.
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Year 13: In Year 13, students must continue with at least 3 subjects unless there are exceptional circumstances.
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Full-Time Commitment: Carmel College is a full-time educational establishment. We do not admit students on a part-time basis, as we believe that full-time commitment is key to achieving your best.
Who Should Help Me Choose My Subjects?
While the ultimate decision is yours, we strongly recommend consulting others to make sure you’re considering all factors. Here’s who you should talk to:
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Your Parents/Carers: Your parents will be supporting you throughout your Sixth Form journey, so it’s important to discuss your choices with them. They can provide valuable insight and encouragement.
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School Advisors: Our Sixth Form staff are here to provide up-to-date guidance on course requirements, university applications, and potential career paths. The landscape of higher education is constantly evolving, so it’s important to get advice from those who know the latest trends and entry requirements.
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Careers Staff: Our careers team can provide expert advice on the future job market, and help you explore the opportunities available to you. They will also assist in ensuring your subject choices align with your career goals.
Remember: To be successful, you should always choose subjects that build on your strengths and interests.
How Do I Choose My A-Level Subjects?
There are three key factors to consider when selecting your A-Level subjects:
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Your Strengths in the Subject:
It’s important to choose subjects that match your skills. For example, if you are thinking of studying History, strong English skills will help; if you are considering Physics, you’ll need strong mathematical abilities. Think about your GCSE performance and how well you’ve done in related subjects.
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Your Interest and Enjoyment:
You’ll be studying these subjects for two years, so it’s essential to pick subjects you enjoy and find interesting. If you are considering a subject you haven’t studied before, make sure to research it thoroughly—understand the topics you’ll cover and how you’ll be assessed.
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Your Career and University Ambitions:
Certain careers may require specific subjects. For example, if you want to pursue a career in medicine, dentistry, or veterinary science, you’ll need to take specific science subjects at A Level. For degrees in Engineering, Computing, or Maths, Maths at A Level is often required. Many university courses also require a minimum of a grade 4 or 5 in English, Maths, and sometimes Science at GCSE. If you're aiming for a teaching career, at least two national curriculum subjects are recommended.
Application Requirements
To apply for Level 3 courses (Advanced AS/A2/BTEC/VCE), students should typically have at least 5 GCSE passes at grade 9-4, including English and Maths, plus the required minimum grade for the subjects they wish to study.
How to Apply
We welcome applications from students across the region and beyond, and we pride ourselves on attracting the best and brightest from a variety of schools. To apply, you can:
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Apply online by clicking the 'Apply Now' button below.
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Call us at 01325 254525.
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Email us at enquiries@carmel6.org.uk.
We look forward to receiving your application and welcoming you to Carmel College Sixth Form.