Course overview

• Both AS and A level are linear courses
• AS will be a stand- alone qualification

Where can the subject take me?

Courses include:

• Biological sciences
• Chemical sciences
• Medical sciences
• Medicine and dentistry
• Environmental studies
• Geological sciences

How is this course assessed?

Entry requirements?

5 good GCSE passes including English at grade 5 and Maths at grade 6 and above plus grade 6 in Science. All other GCSEs grade 4 and above.

Student view

“Biology is tough but rewarding. I have particularly enjoyed learning about DNA and gene expression.“

Course overview

EDUCAS A Level

The A level specification introduces learners to the dynamic business environment and the importance of entrepreneurial activity in creating business opportunities and sustaining business growth. Learners will have the opportunity to develop a wide range of essential skills required for higher education and employment. The focus of the specification is to nurture an enthusiasm for studying business using contemporary contexts, allowing learners to develop an appreciation of the strategic, complex and inter-related nature of business issues from a local to global perspective.

You will cover many different areas within this A level which include identifying what is business, different types of leadership and decision making, improving the operational and financial performance of business and decisions made within business for marketing and human resource management.

Where can the subject take me?

Employment in the private sector for many different aspects of business and the financial sector which include; Accountancy, Banking and Finance, Business Management, Business Studies, Economics, Financial Services, Human Resource Management, Logistics and Supply Chain Management, Marketing, Retail Management.

An apprenticeship combines work and learning, so you’ll be studying for a qualification while developing real-world experience and earning a wage.

Develops many important life skills that will benefit you for the rest of your life.

How is this course assessed?

Entry requirements?

5 good GCSE passes including English and Maths at grade 5 and above. All other GCSEs grade 4 and above.

Student view

“I love learning about the world we live in. I now enjoy watching the news!“

Course overview

The BTEC National qualifications in Health and Social Care is a practical, work-related course which will provide you with an introduction and Overview of the health and social care sectors and help to support your career choices.

BTEC Nationals use a combination of assessment styles to give students confidence so that they can apply their knowledge to succeed in the workplace and have the study skills to continue their learning on to higher education courses

Where can the subject take me?

The BTEC Level 3 National Certificate in Health and Social Care is generally taken alongside other qualifications as part of a 2-year programme of learning. This will enable learners to progress to a degree programme chosen from a range of programmes in the health and social care sector as well as education. The qualification is intended to carry UCAS points and is recognised by higher education institutions as contributing to meeting admission requirements to many relevant courses.

It can be taken alongside, for example: an A Level in Biology and further Level 3 qualifications, which could lead to a BSc (Hons) in Nursing

How is this course assessed?

Entry requirements?

5 good GCSE passes including English and maths at grade 5 and above. All other GCSEs grade 4 and above.

Student view

“Health is a very interesting subject. Learning about the world we live in is really interesting. The course includes work placements to put theory into practice and I will soon be completing work experience in the Walton Centre here in the city.“

Course overview

• Both AS and A level are linear courses
• AS will be a stand- alone qualification

Where can the subject take me?

Courses include:

• Chemical sciences
• Engineering
• Medical sciences
• Medicine and dentistry
• Physical sciences
• Geological sciences

How is this course assessed?

Entry requirements?

5 good GCSE passes including English at grade 5 and Maths at grade 6 and above plus grade 6-6 in Science. All other GCSEs grade 4 and above.

Student view

“I have really enjoyed the practicals we have undertaken as part of the A level syllabus. They allow me to develop my understanding of why different reactions occur.“

Course overview

• Performance
• Choreography
• Critical engagement Assessments

Students must complete both assessment components.

Component 1: Performance and choreography

What is assessed?

• Solo performance linked to a specified practitioner within an area of study
• Performance in a quartet
• Group choreography

How is it assessed?

• Practical exam
• 80 marks
• 50% of A-level
• Non-examination assessment (NEA) marked by an external assessor from AQA during a visit to your centre. Visits will normally take place between March and May.

Component 2: Critical engagement

What is assessed?

• Knowledge, understanding and critical appreciation of two set works.
• One compulsory set work within the compulsory area of study
• One optional set work within the corresponding area of study, from a choice of four.

How is it assessed?

• Written exam: 2 hours 30 minutes
• 100 marks
• 50% of A-level
• Questions

Two sections:

• Section A: short answer questions (25 marks) and one essay question (25 marks) on the compulsory set work/area of study.
• Section B: two essay questions on the second set work/area of study (25 marks for each essay).

Where can the subject take me?

This qualification provides learners with the opportunity to develop all rounded performance and transferable skills such as; self-confidence, personal discipline and time management which are highly regarded by higher education and employers.

In the A Level course there are opportunities during the teaching and learning phase to give learners practice in developing employability skills such as; cognitive and problem-solving skills, intrapersonal skills, leadership and interpersonal skills.

Finally, the qualification provides transferable knowledge and skills that prepare learners for progression for university. It is also a subject that can support other career paths.

Course overview

AQA

On this course you will study a wide variety of modern and historical texts – novels, poetry and drama, including the work of William Shakespeare. As well as extending your knowledge and enjoyment of literature, you will develop the skills of thinking critically, reading and analysing texts closely and preparing arguments.

Where can the subject take me?

This A Level is a popular subject and is accepted by Higher Education institutions for the continuing study of English Literature. It is also very useful if you are thinking of a degree in education, law, media studies, history, drama, creative writing, any of the social sciences, as well as the many courses which have English as an element.

Employers value English Literature as it shows you have the skills to synthesise information, explore different points of view and express yourself clearly and cogently.

How is this course assessed?

Texts studied

• • • Tess of the d’Urbervilles by Thomas Hardy
    • Anthology of poems by Thomas Hardy
    • Othello by William Shakespeare
    • Death of a Salesman by Arthur Miller
    • Songs of Innocence and Experience by William Blake
    • The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
    • The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood

Entry requirements?

5 good passes including an English GCSE at grade 6 or above.

Student view

“I would recommend studying English because you become a more coherent communicator. Literature is emotional communication between humans across history through stories and characters!“

“I found the variety of texts interesting and I could engage easily with them.“

“The jump from GCSE to A Level brings a more sophisticated and critical style to analysing literature.“

Course Overview

EDUQAS – A Level Art and design – Fashion and Textiles

This is an Art and Design course which specialises in Fashion and Textiles. The focus throughout the course is about designing, experimenting and making unique fashion items.

The AS consists only of Component 1: Personal Investigation, internally assessed, externally moderated. 100% of the marks

The A level consists of two components:

Component 1: Personal Investigation (60% of A level), internally assessed, externally moderated.

Component 2: Externally Set Assignment (40% of A level), internally assessed, externally moderated.

Possible areas of study include:

• fashion
• costume
• digitally or traditionally printed and/or dyed fabrics, garments and materials
• interior design
• constructed textiles (knitted, woven, embellished or combined with other materials)
• textile installation
• accessory design

Where can the subject take me?

Popular subject to take at any University and is an exciting career prospect.

Progression to a Foundation Course in the Arts or University to study Fashion, Fashion styling/photography, Fashion buyer, retail merchandising , Textile designer or Fashion Business owner.

The design portfolio produced is a vital communication of your creativity and skills, for interviews into the design and fashion industry, if college and university are not an option.

Fashion and Textiles works very well with all A Level subjects; in particular Art & Design; English (Fashion Journalism) and Business Studies.

How is this course assessed?

Entry requirements?

5 good GCSE passes including English, Maths, and Fashion or Art at grade 5 and above. All other GCSEs grade 4 and above.

Student view

“I have really enjoyed designing and creating bespoke pieces that reflect my creative flair. I have been challenged but had fun.“

Course overview

Students will study French society both current and historical looking at issues that affect French society and it’s citizens. This includes historical, political and artistic culture, including a focus on French identity and the cultural heritage of French society now and in the past. Students will explore the influence of the past on present-day France and French-speaking communities. Throughout their studies, they will learn the language in the context of French-speaking countries and the issues and influences which have shaped them. Students will study a text and a film in the language.

Where can the subject take me?

French can be taken at university as a stand-alone subject or is frequently combined with other subjects such as business, law, international business, other languages, marketing, journalism and many others. This puts the undergraduate in a very fortunate position given the need on the global workplace for people who can speak other languages.

How is this course assessed?

Students will sit 3 exams. A reading, listening and translation paper worth 45%, a writing paper about a French book and film worth 25%, a speaking exam which covers aspects of French society and culture worth 30%.

Entry requirements?

Minimum Grade 6 at GCSE, however MFL staff may be consulted on applicant suitability. Please approach your French teacher for an informal discussion about the course.

Student view

“Students find studying languages both rewarding and challenging. They have found that it vastly improves communication skills, self-confidence and their own linguistic skills. It can also lead to careers that use French combined with other pathways that make future job candidates very desirable.“

Course overview

AQA A Level

You will cover many different areas within this A level which include Natural Hazards, Ecosystems, Coasts, Population, Urban Environments and Global Systems.

Where can the subject take me?

According to the Royal Geographical Society, Geography graduates have some of the highest rates of graduate employment.

Geography is great for any kind of career that involves the environment, planning, or collecting and interpreting data. Popular careers for people with geography qualifications include: town or transport planning, surveying, conservation, sustainability, waste and water management, environmental planning, tourism, and weather forecasting.

The army, police, government, research organisations, law and business world also love the practical research skills that geographers develop.

Because geographers learn about human and population development, geography can be useful for jobs in charity and international relations too.

How is this course assessed?

There are 3 examination papers.

• Paper 1 is the Physical Geography paper and is worth 40% of the A level.
• Paper 2 is the Human Geography paper and is also worth 40% of the A level.
• Paper 3 is a non-examination assessment based on an independent investigation and is worth 20% of the A level.

Entry requirements?

5 good GCSE passes, minimum Grade 4, including Geography at grade 6 and above.

Student view

“Geography is incredibly interesting and varied. My particular passion is planning. I have recently spend time in the planning department at Liverpool City Council contributing to current and future projects affecting the city. I plan to continue studying Geography at the University of Liverpool after sixth form.“

“Geography has provided me with an insight to environmental issues and the world in which we live. The topics at A Level go into more depth than GCSE and have deepened my understanding of the world. Next year I have chosen to study Geography at the University of Liverpool as I want so I can make a change to the environment and have a career in environmental studies.”

Course overview

The department follows AQA exam board. Paper 1 is the breadth study which examines The Making of a Superpower: USA, 1865 – 1975 and Paper 2 is the depth study which examines The Making of Modern Britain, 1951 – 2007.

There is also a third unit which is the Non-Examined Assessment (NEA). This involves independent research and work to complete a 4500 word enquiry linked to the topics of the Tudors or Stuarts.

Where can the subject take me?

History is a popular subject in HE. Subsequently students often enter careers as diverse as Law, Politics, Journalism and Teaching.

How is this course assessed?

80% Examination 20% NEA.

Entry requirements?

5 GCSE passes (or equivalent) grade 6 in History required

Student view

“History has helped develop my political awareness and my understanding of the economy, opening my eyes to current affairs.” Jessica Higham (2021)

Course overview

2/3’s of the course is pure maths and 1/3 is applied. The applied section of the course is then split between mechanics and statistics.

This is a new course which will be taught for the first time in September 2017.

Where can the subject take me?

Can help with financial courses, medical, engineering and scientific courses.

Employment in the private sector for many different aspects the financial sector which include; Accountancy, Banking and Finance, Economics, Financial Services and actuary.

How is this course assessed?

The course is assessed by 3, 2 hour examinations at the end of the 2 year course.

Entry requirements?

Grade 6 at Maths GCSE

Student view

“Tough and challenging but hugely rewarding. It has helped improve my independent learning and develop my logical thinking skills. If you work hard in maths there are many progression opportunities.“

Course overview

Paper 1: Factors affecting participation in physical activity and sport

• Section A: Applied anatomy and physiology
• Section B: Skill acquisition
• Section C: Sport and society

Paper 2: Factors affecting optimal performance in physical activity and sport

• Section A: Exercise physiology and biomechanics
• Section B: Sport psychology
• Section C: Sport and society and technology in sport Non-exam assessment: Practical performance in physical activity and sport

Students assessed as a performer or coach in the full sided version of one activity.

Plus: written/verbal analysis of performance.

Where can the subject take me?

University to study sports statistician, physiotherapist, sports scientist, sports coach, sports psychologist, sports agent, sports journalist or PE Teacher.

How is this course assessed?

Paper 1: Factors affecting participation in physical activity and sport

Questions

• Section A: multiple choice, short answer and extended writing (35 marks)
• Section B: multiple choice, short answer and extended writing (35 marks)

Section C: multiple choice, short answer and extended writing (35 marks)

Paper 2: Factors affecting optimal performance in physical activity and sport.

• Written exam: 2 hours
• 105 marks
• 35% of A-level

Entry requirements?

5 good GCSE passes including English and Maths at grade 5 and above. All other GCSEs grade 4 and above.

Student view

“I really enjoy learning about the theory behind sport, and I love the practical. It has helped me to achieve my Sports Science degree at LJMU.“

Course overview

• Both AS and A level are linear courses
• AS will be a stand- alone qualification

Where can the subject take me?

Courses include:

• Physical sciences
• Chemical sciences
• Medical sciences
• Medicine and dentistry
• Astrophysics
• Geological sciences
• Mathematics

How is this course assessed?

Entry requirements?

5 good GCSE passes including English at grade 5 and Maths at grade 6 and above plus Grade 5 in Science. All other GCSEs grade 4 and above.

Student view

“It is interesting to learn about the make up to everyday life. Experiments are fun, particularly when studying mechanics. Physics in a great way in to Engineering.“

Course overview

Students will study technological and social change. They will study highlights of Hispanic artistic culture, including a focus on Spanish regional identity and the cultural heritage of past civilisations. Students will explore the influence of the past on present-day Spanish-speaking communities. Throughout their studies, they will learn the language in the context of Spanish-speaking countries and the issues and influences which have shaped them. Students will study a text and a film.

Where can the subject take me?

Spanish can be taken at university as a stand-alone subject or is frequently combined with other subjects such as business, law, international business, other languages, marketing, journalism and many others. This puts the undergraduate in a very fortunate position given the need on the global workplace for people who can speak other languages

How is this course assessed?

Students will sit 3 exams at A Level. A reading, listening and translation paper worth 50%, a writing paper about a Spanish book and a Spanish film worth 20%, a speaking exam which covers aspects of Hispanic society and culture worth 30%.

Entry requirements?

Minimum Grade 6 at GCSE, however MFL staff may be consulted on applicant suitability. Please approach your Spanish teacher for an informal discussion about the course.

Student view

“Students find studying languages both rewarding and challenging. They have found that it vastly improves communication skills, self-confidence and their own linguistic skills.“

Course overview

To develop the knowledge, understanding and skills to think spiritually, ethically and theologically, and to be aware of the demands of religious commitment in everyday life.

To enable the students to reflect critically on the ultimate questions of life

To enable each student to appreciate the relationship between religious belief, personal faith and lived experience

Where can the subject take me?

• The Armed Services
• Teaching/Education
• Health/medical profession
• Journalism
• Law
• Police Service
• Social/Youth Work
• Charity/Fundraising Work

How is this course assessed?

• Level 1 – 2 x written pieces of work
• Level 2 – 2 x written pieces of work

Entry requirements?

A previous study of GCSE Religious Studies would be desirable but not essential

Student view

“RE has been interesting and varied. The guest speakers have been inspirational and thought provoking.“

Course overview

Students will study ancient philosophical influences, the nature of the soul, mind and body, arguments about the existence or non-existence of God. This will lead them to explore the challenges about the nature of God and explore ancient Greek teachings on the existence of God. In Philosophy of religion learners will study philosophical issues and questions raised by religion and belief. These include arguments regarding the existence or non-existence of God, the nature and influence of religious experience and the problems of evil and suffering. They will also explore philosophical language and thought, through significant concepts and the works of key thinkers, illustrated in issues or debates in the philosophy of religion. Religion and ethics is characterised by the study of ethical language and thought, with exploration of key concepts and the works of influential thinkers. Ethical theory will also be applied to issues of importance; namely euthanasia, business ethics, and sexual ethics.

Where can the subject take me?

Philosophy and Ethics can be taken at university as a stand-alone subject or is frequently combined with other subjects such as Economics and Politics. This enables the undergraduate to have ethical debate in the field of medicine, politics, sexual ethics and a myriad of other topics. The debate within the subject prompts a vast array of further reading and wider knowledge, enabling the undergraduate to have a broad array of world understanding.

How is this course assessed?

Students will sit 3 exams. A Philosophy of Religion paper worth 33%, a Religion and Ethics paper worth 33% and Developments in Religious Thought paper worth 33%.

Entry requirements?

Minimum Grade 6 at GCSE, however RE staff may be consulted on applicant suitability. Please approach your RE teacher for an informal discussion about the course.

Student view

“Students find studying Philosophy and Ethics both challenging and inspiring. It prompts thought and healthy debate, and also requires further reading which really enhances your understanding of the world around you.“

Course overview

The BTEC National qualifications in Health and Social Care is a practical, work-related course which will provide you with an introduction and Overview of the health and social care sectors and help to support your career choices.

BTEC Nationals use a combination of assessment styles to give students confidence so that they can apply their knowledge to succeed in the workplace and have the study skills to continue their learning on to higher education courses

Where can the subject take me?

The BTEC Level 3 National Certificate in Health and Social Care is generally taken alongside other qualifications as part of a 2-year programme of learning. This will enable learners to progress to a degree programme chosen from a range of programmes in the health and social care sector as well as education. The qualification is intended to carry UCAS points and is recognised by higher education institutions as contributing to meeting admission requirements to many relevant courses.

It can be taken alongside, for example: an A Level in Biology and further Level 3 qualifications, which could lead to a BSc (Hons) in Nursing

How is this course assessed?

Entry requirements?

5 good GCSE passes including English and maths at grade 5 and above. All other GCSEs grade 4 and above.

Student view

“Health is a very interesting subject, were you learn all about how the human body develops. I have learnt lots of new interesting things that I didn’t expect to learn, such as milestones, life events, and how people develop both physically and mentally. I am looking forward to my next unit as this will prepare me for a work place within the health care setting and will help me gain my university placement.”

Course overview

You will cover many different areas within this Extended Certificate in Information Technology which includes looking at creating systems to manage information, information technology systems, using social media in business, and website design and development.

Where can the subject take me?

Employment in the private sector for many different aspects of information technology which include; Business information systems, Business Computing, Web & Graphic design, and Computer Sciences.

An apprenticeship combines work and learning, so you’ll be studying for a qualification while developing real-world experience and earning a wage.

Develops many important life skills that will benefit you for the rest of your life.

How is this course assessed?

Entry requirements?

5 good GCSE passes including English and maths at grade 5 and above. All other GCSEs grade 4 and above.

Student view

“Databases has been challenging but really rewarding once mastered. I have really enjoyed the web design element and produced a website that I am really proud of.“

Course overview

Media and digital media is the fastest growing sector in the UK. Our course offers pathways into both traditional and digital media industries. Learn relevant skills for modern industry such as web and video editing as well as studying for theory based exams whilst gaining transferable skills including pre-production, ICT skills and literacy. The course offers an insight into digital media production as well as the many societal impacts that media products have such audience impact and how different groups are represented in media products. You will also be taught about the potential legal and regulatory impact that media products have ranging from issues such as copyright and libel to regulatory factors such as censorship.

Where can the subject take me?

This qualification provides learners with the opportunity to key skills across the media spectrum and transferable skills such as; ICT skills, literacy, time management and presenting skills which are highly regarded by higher education and employers.

This course provides transferable knowledge and skills that prepare learners for progression for university or into higher level apprenticeships. Potential career paths include;

• post-production
• publishing
• radio
• scriptwriting
• special effects
• technical production
• television
• web design
• advertising
• animation
• business-to-business (B2B) media
• digital marketing
• film
• games
• interactive media
• journalism

How is this course assessed?

The course is both assessed internally and externally. 50% of the course is based on external examinations (Unit 1 in the first year, Unit 2 in the second year).

The remaining 50% of the course is assessed internally through the following coursework units;

Unit 3 Producing a media product
Unit 20 Advertising Media
Unit 21 Pitching a media product
Unit 24 Cross-media industry awareness

Entry requirements?

5 good GCSE passes including English and maths at grade 4.

Student view

“Media has allowed me to be creative and learn how to use industry standard software packages. I have also gained an understanding of how media industries work and products effect on audiences.“

Course overview

You will cover many different areas within this BTEC which includes; investigating a variety of practitioners, studying historical and contextual factors and how this impacts on their work (Unit 1). In addition, you study developing skills and techniques for live performances. Understanding the theoretical aspect that underpin your practical performance (Unit 2).

Where can the subject take me?

This qualification provides learners with the opportunity to develop all rounded performance and transferable skills such as; self-confidence, personal discipline and time management which are highly regarded by higher education and employers.

In BTEC National units there are opportunities during the teaching and learning phase to give learners practice in developing employability skills such as; cognitive and problem-solving skills, intrapersonal skills and interpersonal skills.

Finally, the qualification provides transferable knowledge and skills that prepare learners for progression for university. it is also a subject that can support other career paths.

How is this course assessed?

The course is both assessed internally and externally. Unit 2 is assessed internally with coursework and practical performances. Where unit 1 is assessed externally with a written exam.

Entry requirements?

5 good GCSE passes including English and maths at grade 5 and above and experience within the performance arts disciplines.

Student view

“BTEC performing arts has allowed me to focus on becoming an ‘all rounded’ performer not just focusing on one discipline.“

Course overview

Psychology has been defined as ‘The study of human mind and its functions, especially those affecting behaviour.’

Students studying Applied Psychology BTEC, will study several areas (four units), which include;

Unit 1, Psychological approaches and applications (external exam) and unit 2 Conducting psychological research (coursework) in the first year.

In year 2, unit 3 Health Psychology (external exam) and Unit 4 Criminal and forensic psychology (coursework) will complete the course.

Students often combine this subject with other areas of study such as Health and Social Care, P.E. or sciences such as applied science or biology.

Where can the subject take me?

Historically many students continue their studies at university either within psychology or on several health related courses. Several students have also gone on to careers within the nursing profession.

Entry requirements?

5 good GCSE passes including English and maths at grade 4.

Student view

“Psychology was a new subject for me in sixth form but I have found it so interesting. I now hope to continue my studies at university and then qualify as a child psychologist.“

Course overview

You will cover many different areas within this Extended Certificate in Travel and Tourism which includes looking at the world of travel and tourism, global destinations, visitor attractions and the principles of marketing in the travel and tourism sector.

Where can the subject take me?

Employment in the private sector for many different aspects of travel and tourism which include; Events Management, Hospitality Management, International Tourism Management, Travel and Tourism Management.

This is a vocational qualification where the content learnt will be applied to businesses within the sector and you will explore how they use data for decision making to enhance performance.

The course develops many important life skills that will benefit you for the rest of your life.

How is this course assessed?

Entry requirements?

5 good GCSE passes including English and maths at grade 5 and above. All other GCSEs grade 5 and above.

Student view

“The travel industry provides exciting career opportunities and the course has given me the opportunity to learn more about the world around me. I have enjoyed learning about specific destinations and visitor attractions around the world and how they appeal to different types of travellers. It has been especially interesting looking at the effects of the global pandemic on travel and seeing how the industry is trying to bounce back too.”

Course overview

360 GLH Equivalent in size to one A Level.
4 units of which 3 are mandatory and 2 are external.
Mandatory content (83%).
External assessment (58%).

Where can the subject take me?

Designed for learners who are interested in learning about the sector alongside other fields of study, with a view to progressing to a wide range of higher education courses, not necessarily in applied science.

How is this course assessed?

BTEC National Applied Science uses a combination of assessment styles to give students confidence they can apply their knowledge to succeed in the workplace and have the study skills to continue learning on higher education courses and throughout their career.

1. Assignments: Set and marked by teachers; verified by Pearson. Still the main form of assessment for all BTEC Nationals.
2. Tasks: provide students with work-based challenges in timed, realistic work conditions.
3. Written exams: Students create written answers to practical questions in exam conditions.

Entry requirements?

5 Good GCSE’s in arrange of subjects including Grade 5-5 or above in GCSE science.

Student view

“Applied Science has been a mix of all 3 sciences. The lab work has been really enjoyable. It is so interesting and varied. In Applied Science you learn something new every day.“

Course overview

A broad basis of study for the sport sector. This qualification is designed to support progression to higher education when taken as part of a programme of study that includes other appropriate BTEC Nationals. The BTEC National Extended Certificate (360 GLH) is equivalent to 1 A Level.

The following four units will be coved over 2 years:

• Anatomy and Physiology
• Fitness Training and Programming for Health
• Sports Leadership/Practical Sports Performance
• Professional development in the Sports Industry

England Rugby star Jack Nowell studied a BTEC and Team GB Olympic Gold Medallist gymnast Max Whitlock. Plus, it’s not just professional athletes who are winning with BTEC; there are thousands of talented coaches and trainers out there enjoying successful careers thanks to their BTEC National in Sport.

If you want a hands-on course that gives you the opportunity to develop the practical skills and specialist knowledge that you’ll need to kick-start your career, then the BTEC National Extended Certificate in Sport is a winning choice for you!

Where can the subject take me?

BTEC Nationals in Sport are backed by some major UK employers and professional bodies, including: Rugby Football League, Wigan Athletic FC, Chartered Institute for the Management of Sport and Physical Activity (CIMPSA), League Football Education, Skills Active and Sports Coach UK.

They can also provide you with the UCAS points to take you to University to study courses in Sports Statistician, physiotherapist, sports scientist, sports coach, sports psychologist, sports agent, sports journalist and PE Teacher.

How is this course assessed?

BTECs are made up of a number of units, which are usually assessed through assignments that are both set and marked by your teacher or course tutor. However, Anatomy and Physiology contains an externally set examination.

Fitness Training and Programming for Health is also an externally assessed piece of coursework.

Assignments can include tests, research, essays, projects, investigations, and often link theory with practical.

As you are assessed throughout your course, you can analyse and improve your performance in the same way as you would in a workplace.

Entry requirements?

5 good GCSE passes including English and maths at grade 5 and above. All other GCSEs grade 4 and above. GCSE PE and BTEC Sport Level 2 desirable but not essential.

Student view

“I studied the BTEC National in Sport and liked the practical aspect of Leadership in Sport and preparing for the Anatomy and Physiology exam.“

Archbishop Beck Catholic College aims to become the leading institute in Merseyside and beyond for excellence in basketball provision and academic studies at post 16.

An Elite Programme

• Combine your academic studies with 10 hours (per week) of elite basketball training & fixtures
• England Basketball ABL competition (Academy Basketball League)
• Personalised strength and conditioning programme
• Nutritional Advice, Sports Psychology, Physiology
• Professional Coaching and Mentoring
• Combine with A levels, BTEC, NVQ etc.
• Sports Scholarships available

Fantastic Opportunities

• Academic Excellence
• Coaching Qualifications
• Employment
• University
• Potential American College Scholarships
• Apprenticeships
• Links with Liverpool Basketball Club
• Links with MMU & UCLAN Basketball scholarship programs

Meet the Coach

Former England International Basketball Player – Delme Herriman

• 77 England International Caps
• Commonwealth Games Bronze Medallist (Melbourne 2006)
• NCAA Division 1 player (Wright State University 1996 Graduate)
• 14 Year Pro Basketball player
• Played 8 years professionally in European leagues
• England Basketball Division 2 Coach of the year 2018 & 2019

Quote from former academy players

Phil Deveney (MVP & Defensive Player of the Year ABL North 2018-19)

“I had a great 3 years at Archbishop Beck which was the perfect platform to help achieve my dream of playing in the US. Being coached by one of the best coaches/players in England’s history every day helped me more than I could imagine. The help of Delme and also Mr Gillon helped me achieve a dream I thought was not possible!“

Dante Sofia, currently on a scholarship at Umpqua community college in Oregon, USA.

“My experience at Archbishop Beck Basketball Academy was incredibly impactful. Learning the game from someone like Delme Herriman was very beneficial to me as a basketball player. The facilities are great. The freindships and knowledge learnt during my time their will no doubt last me a life time. I was fortunate enough to garner interest from a range of schools in the United States after my years at ABBA. This would not have been possible however without the team at ABBA as wel as Coach Herriman. I would recommend Archbishop Beck Basketball Academy to anyone with a passion for the sport looking to improve and develop.“

Combining Excellence in Football and Academic Studies

An Elite Programme

• For released & top quality players
• Genuine chance to be signed by a professional football club
• Long history of placing young players in Premier League & Championship clubs
• Highest quality coaching
• Pre-season training, fitness testing and analysis
• Regular games against professional clubs
• Training at top quality 4G facility with state of the art gym facilities
• Potential for lucrative international playing scholarships for academic students
• Additional coaching qualifications & education
• Can combine with additional ‘A’ levels / BTEC
• Entry into National Leagues

Entry Requirements

Selection is based on playing ability