Be true, be you School leavers’
guide 2027-28
.ac.uk
hartlepoolsix th
Unlock your potential at Hartlepool Sixth Form College
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Contents College events .............................................................. 4 Why choose us? .......................................................... 6 High Achievers Programme .............................. 10 Student & campus life ............................................ 11 How to find us ............................................................... 18 Student support .......................................................... 22 Sports Academies ..................................................... 26 Which route is right for you? ............................ 28 Academies & Pathways ........................................ 34 Progression ..................................................................... 37 Your application journey ..................................... 38 Information for parents & carers ................. 39 Keep in touch ................................................................. 42
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College events We host a series of events and activities throughout the year to give you a taste of what life is like at Hartlepool Sixth Form College. You can speak to our expert teaching staff, meet fellow students, and explore our amazing facilities. Our friendly team will be on hand to help with everything from careers guidance to advice on financial support available. There is no better way to explore everything we have to offer.
Open Events Our Open Events are the perfect opportunity for year 10 and year 11 pupils to visit our campus, find out more about our courses, see our outstanding facilities, meet our expert teaching staff and current students, and get a feel for the college atmosphere.
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October to March During the events, which are held in the evenings, our Student Services teams are also available to answer any questions you may have about finance, welfare or learning support.
Bridging Event July (applicants only) This is a two-day event exclusively for applicants who have applied for one of our courses starting in September. This timetabled event will give you a real taste of what studying at Hartlepool Sixth Form College will be like.
Parent Information Event
Across the two days, you’ll learn in the same classrooms and specialist facilities you’ll use from September, meet your teachers, and get to know other students who’ll be studying alongside you. It’s the perfect chance to settle in early, build your confidence, and start making friends before your first official day.
February (applicants only) These events are exclusively for parents or carers of those applicants who have applied for one of our courses starting in September. Applicants themselves are also welcome to join. These sessions are led by the Campus Principal and Director of Sixth Form and are focused on the key details for parents including information on curriculum, our High Achievers Programme, Student Support, Welfare & Bursary, Travel, extracurricular activities and much more.
For additional information and to book your place, scan here
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Choose the best Hartlepool Sixth Form College is the country’s top performing sixth form* and offers a wide range of bespoke technical and academic pathways including A-Levels, T Levels and technical qualifications. We welcome students from all communities We are proud of our diverse student community and are the first college group in the North East to become a College of Sanctuary in recognition of our inclusivity, and commitment to creating a culture of safety, respect and understanding. We are changemakers We work with industry to create and deliver a changemaking curriculum which inspires and equips students with the skills to thrive in society and their future careers. By removing barriers to education and reducing inequalities, we enable all – regardless of background, starting points, age, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, or disability – to develop and excel.
We offer real-world opportunities to support our students into employment, further study, or higher education, embracing emerging technologies and creating an exceptional learning experience for all students. We get you career ready Our excellent industry links with hundreds of top employers, including Amazon, Be Caring, Cleveland Police, EDF Energy, Hart Biologicals, Hartlepool Borough Council, North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, Teesside University, and ZF Engineering, provide valuable opportunities to develop your skills and gain real-world experience. These partnerships will help equip you with the knowledge and confidence needed for your future career. You will access amazing learning opportunities such as on-site visits, work experience and
OUR COLLEGE IS PART OF EDUCATION PARTNERSHIP NORTH EAST, THE JOINT TOP PERFORMING COLLEGE GROUP IN THE REGION FOR STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT.*
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*National Achievement Rate Tables 2024-25, 16-18 students
PROUD TO BE OUTSTANDING.
Rated Outstanding in every area by Ofsted 2024.
Quality of education
Outstanding
Behaviour & attitudes
Outstanding
Personal development
Outstanding
Leadership & management
Outstanding
Education programmes for young people
Outstanding
Adult learning programmes
Outstanding
Apprenticeships
Outstanding
Provision for learners with high needs
Outstanding
masterclasses with leading industry experts throughout your time studying here. Learn from passionate teaching staff who are subject specialists or industry professionals excelling in their field of expertise. We help you progress We support your future ambitions throughout your time with us, providing expert advice and guidance with UCAS applications, employment applications, CV writing, future study options and more.
We are a STEM Assured provider STEM Foundation 2022
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95
%
overall pass rate for T Levels*
97
%
overall pass rate for students*
90
%
of our apprentices progressed to employment, university or further study†
96
%
of our students secured their chosen university place UCAS Undergraduate Data 2024-25
*National Achievement Rate Tables 2024-25, 16-18 students 8 | SCHOOL LEAVERS’ GUIDE 2027-28
†National Achievement Rate Tables 2024-25, Apprenticeships
97
%
of our students said they felt safe at college*
90
%
of our students said they would recommend Hartlepool Sixth Form College to a friend**
*Education Partnership North East On Programme Survey 2025-26, 16-18 students **Education Partnership North East Student Exit Survey 2024-25, 16-18 students
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High Achievers Programme Are you ready to push your limits, challenge yourself and stand out from the crowd? Our High Achievers Programme offers an opportunity for you to fully realise your academic and personal potential in a supportive, challenging, and dynamic environment. Students who join the High Achievers Programme will be provided with the resources, opportunities, and guidance necessary to ensure success not just in college, but in their future careers and university or degree apprenticeship pursuits. What are the benefits? • Advanced academic support • Enrichment and super-curricular activities • Exclusive opportunities • Thrive and balance activities • Personal development and leadership opportunities The High Achievers Programme is designed to push you further, challenge you, and support your growth, academically, personally, and professionally. Whether you’re aiming for a top university, a competitive career, or simply want to be the best version of yourself, we’re here to help you get there. The High Achievers Programme is open to all students who demonstrate outstanding academic potential and a strong commitment to their studies across any subject area or specialism.
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Entry will be based on: • A proven track record of academic excellence (e.g. 7 GCSE grade 7 or equivalent) • A personal statement outlining the your academic and extra-curricular interests, as well as your reasons for wanting to join the programme • Motivation and passion – a strong desire to pursue deeper knowledge and mastery • A recommendation from previous secondary school • A willingness to engage in super-curricular activities and leadership opportunities
Home-schooled students will be invited to an informal discussion with college staff about their predicted GCSE grades and to explore how the High Achievers Programme can be tailored to their studies.
Freedom to be yourself Coming to Hartlepool Sixth Form College will help you experience a new independence, discover a self-belief for who you want to be, and get excited about your future potential. A fresh start Starting sixth form college is a great opportunity to learn what you love and become the person you are destined to be. A different environment Compared to school, you will find that Hartlepool Sixth Form College is a more mature and relaxed environment. You will be treated like an adult and an individual, which will help you become more independent and better prepared for your next steps after college, whether that is to further study or a job. More independence At Hartlepool Sixth Form College you can start making your own decisions. Your timetable will be very different to school with free periods for study, extra-curricular activities such as sports and games, on campus clubs and activities, or a part-time job. There is no uniform at our college, meaning you can express your individuality through your clothing, although specific attire, like PPE, may be required for certain courses. Please remember to always wear your college ID badge. More opportunities and choice Our college offers a wide choice of courses in different subject areas and at different levels. You will also have lots of opportunities to take part in activities outside of the classroom to boost your confidence, develop essential life skills and personal qualities. Meet a variety of people We are proud of our diverse student community and embrace an inclusive, welcoming culture. You will meet new people with different backgrounds and interests.
Become a Student Ambassador while you study With so many events and activities throughout the year, we’re always on the lookout for great student ambassadors who can help support potential students in making the right decision for them. Our ambassadors work in a paid role and help develop valuable leadership and communication skills. You can apply once you’ve enrolled onto a course with us.
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Meet our students
JEMILAH
ETHAN
STUDYING: Health & Social Care.
STUDYING: Psychology.
FAVOURITE THING ABOUT MY COURSE: I like to learn about the different things it has to offer and meeting so many different people every day.
FAVOURITE THING ABOUT MY COURSE: My tutor – she embraces the course and makes it very fun for us all to learn.
THOUGHTS ABOUT THE CAMPUS: It’s a lovely campus – it’s a calm place to be and the teachers and students are all great.
THOUGHTS ABOUT THE CAMPUS: The campus is fantastic – it has every resource available and is a great learning environment.
SKILLS I’VE DEVELOPED AT COLLEGE: I’ve developed a range of skills from going on different placements.
SKILLS I’VE DEVELOPED AT COLLEGE: I’m learning more through this course, so I’m developing skills every day.
FUTURE AMBITIONS: After college I want to go to university to become a nurse.
FUTURE AMBITIONS: Continue studying Psychology at the University of Hull.
ADVICE FOR FUTURE STUDENTS: Definitely come to study at Hartlepool Sixth Form College! I’m positive that the right tutor will be here to teach you!
ADVICE FOR FUTURE STUDENTS: Do your research for your courses – you want to be sure that you’re studying what you’re passionate about.
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LYLA STUDYING: Sports Coaching. FAVOURITE THING ABOUT MY COURSE: My favourite thing is the tutors – they help and guide me. We also get to volunteer in schools, which I enjoy. THOUGHTS ABOUT THE CAMPUS: The campus is really good – the gym facilities are great for me and there’s a lot of places to study.
KIAN STUDYING: A-Levels in Engineering, Geography & Sports Science. FAVOURITE THING ABOUT MY COURSE: I studied Georgraphy at GCSE and I’ve always enjoyed it, so getting to learn more about it is great. THOUGHTS ABOUT THE CAMPUS: I like the campus – it’s a great place. The gym and sports hall are really good facilities.
SKILLS I’VE DEVELOPED AT COLLEGE: The training here is really helpful for my rugby and also with the volunteering helping school children is great.
SKILLS I’VE DEVELOPED AT COLLEGE: Group work across my different subjects has given me team-building skills and enabled me to collaborate with others.
FUTURE AMBITIONS: I want to be a teacher in a primary school.
FUTURE AMBITIONS: Either full time work or an apprenticeship.
ADVICE FOR FUTURE STUDENTS: Enjoy it – don’t take your time here for granted. I absolutely love it!
ADVICE FOR FUTURE STUDENTS: Be confident and get yourself involved in things as much as you can while also learning.
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A space to shape tomorrow Our campus has a welcoming, inspiring, and supportive vibe. You can thrive in our state-of-the-art environments that replicate real world settings and are aligned to future industry demands. We continually invest millions of pounds into our facilities so you can be innovators who solve the problems of tomorrow. Hartlepool Sixth Form College has a range of science labs; engineering, robotics, and automation workshops; a theatre and studios; a world class 360-degree immersive learning environment; a simulated health and care hub, elite sports facilities; and more.
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Campus life There are many opportunities for you to thrive, explore, develop, and learn at Hartlepool Sixth Form College, but some days you may just want to enjoy campus life between your classes, meet your friends and relax in our Campus Café and outdoor spaces, or take part in one of our activities and clubs. Food & drink Grab a bite to eat and catch up with your friends at Campus Café eatery which offers a wide variety of healthy and nutritional meals, sandwiches, drinks, and snacks. All of our students, regardless of income, will have access to a free breakfast if needed. We operate an online payment system at our campus to reduce the amount of cash you carry and enhance the service provided at our café. You will have an account which can be topped up so you can purchase food and drinks at the Campus Café. Although this is the preferred payment method, debit cards and cash are still accepted. Our Campus Café has a 5-star food hygiene rating. Details of opening times are published on the Student Life intranet with weekly menus and any new offers. Enrichment We are committed to providing an environment where you can grow and develop by offering a wide range of wellbeing activities on campus. You can join in volunteering and social action projects with the Duke of Edinburgh Award, National Citizenship Service and Good for Me, Good for FE, one of our college clubs and societies or take part in weekly themed events. IT support We have many computers with an extensive range of software, available for you to use on a drop-in basis. You are expected to improve
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your awareness of, and skills in, information technology (IT). There are many staff who can support you in your use of IT. The college has campus-wide Wi-Fi, which enables you to access the internet and complete your college work using your own, or college, devices.
Future Ready Hub Our Future Ready Hub will help you find all the resources and support you need for your studies such as developing your research skills, exam preparation and help with referencing alongside printing, photocopying and scanning facilities. We also have books, eBooks, journals and a range of online resources, including your course textbooks. If you need help locating a resource or using the facilities in the Future Ready Hub, you can speak to one of our friendly and experienced team who are there to assist you. All resources are free to borrow, we just ask that they are returned in good condition by their due date.
Our Future Ready Hub also offers a range of services including financial, counselling and mental health & wellbeing support.
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How to find us Hartfields
Greyfields Sports
The Headland Middleton Hartlepool
Hartlepool Sixth Form College
Walking Hartlepool Sixth Form College is an approximate 30-minute walk from Hartlepool town centre and accessible by excellent pedestrian links. Cycling The campus is accessible by National Cycle Route 14 and/or local cycle routes/lanes. Bus services Hartlepool Sixth Form College is located on several bus routes with stops on Blakelock Road, a short walk from campus. Buses are also available from Newcastle,
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Middleton
Hartlepool Sixth Form College, Blakelock Road, Hartlepool, TS25 5PF
What.3.Words: /// anyway.blend.lion
Sunderland, and Middlesbrough into Hartlepool town centre. Train services Hartlepool train station is on the Durham Coast Line and is an approximate 30-minute walk to campus. Car parking Our campus is accessible from the A689, A171, A19 and A1(M) and there is free parking on site.
Visit our website to find out the most up to date college travel information.
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Your journey to college For most students, travelling to college by bus is a great option. Public transport is an environmentally friendly and a reliable way to get to campus.
We understand that you may be anxious about travel, after all this might be a big change from your normal school journey. By working out your route and doing a test-run before you start college can help build your confidence. Wherever you are travelling from, your journey to Hartlepool Sixth Form College is the first step on the road to an inspiring future.
household income is between £30,000 and £50,000 and you live more than 3 miles from campus, you may also be eligible.
Support with travel to college If your household income is less than £30,000 and you live more than 1 mile from campus, you could be eligible for travel support. If your
If you have any questions about what support you might be eligible for, please contact the Financial Support team by emailing welfare@educationpartnershipne.ac.uk.
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If you are eligible for travel support, you will receive an annual pass to use on local Stagecoach buses up to a maximum of £60 per month or travel support.
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We’ve got your back If you need any support during your time with us, we’re here to help. We can provide you with a range of support and wellbeing services that will help you to reach your full potential! Our Future Ready Hub provides a one-stop-shop for all your needs. Careers Guidance Service We provide a free, accessible, impartial, and confidential Careers, Education, Information, Advice and Guidance (CEIAG) service to help you make well-informed choices about your course, progression, future learning opportunities and career goals. Some of the services on offer include oneto-one appointments, career and CV writing workshops, and mock job interviews. Our CEIAG team is available at open events, by emailing guidance@educationpartnershipne. ac.uk or by calling 0300 770 3000. Hartlepool Sixth Form College has received matrix accreditation. This is the national quality standard for any organisation that delivers information, advice and guidance on learning and work. Financial support Students aged 16-18 years old are not required to pay course fees on most of our full-time study programmes. You could be eligible for financial assistance while at college including help with course-related, transport and kit costs, childcare, free meals, or bursaries, depending on your circumstances.
one and small group sessions, in-class support or specialist equipment and technology. If you feel you need additional support, email learningsupport@educationpartnershipne. ac.uk, or speak to your Personal Tutor if your circumstances change during your time at college.
If you have any questions about what support may be available to you, visit our website.
Personal Tutor You will be assigned a Personal Tutor who will help you settle into college and be your first point of contact for any questions about study, life, or anything else. Whatever you may need, your Personal Tutor will help you find the right support.
Learning Support We are all different, and sometimes our differences can impact how we learn. Our Learning Support team can provide tailored services to meet your needs including one-to-
Counselling, mental health & wellbeing support We can provide you with a wide range of counselling, mental health & wellbeing support services to help you make the most
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At Hartlepool Sixth Form College, our Personal Development of students is
of your time at college. The service provides confidential, professional help for any personal issues impacting your college experience such as mental health advice, money management and carer responsibilities, or just be a friendly face for you to talk to. Safe to Say Safeguarding and supporting the wellbeing of our students is vitally important to us. Our Safe to Say initiative allows you to report any concerns you have directly to our Safeguarding team who will respond straight away and provide the necessary help and support. LGBTQIA+ We are an inclusive college that embraces and celebrates equality and diversity. Our LGBTQIA+ group, True Colours, offers a safe and welcoming environment where everyone feels valued and has the freedom to be themselves.
*Ofsted 2024
OUTSTANDING
Support for students with additional life experience Are you a young carer, young parent or care experienced? Contact the Intensive Support Team to share any support needs you may have during your time at college at safeguarding@hartlepoolsixth.ac.uk. Academic Study Support From managing your workload to essay writing and exam preparation, we will support you to get the most out of your studies. We offer regular skills tutorials, and you can arrange a personal advice session with one of our team. There are also online resources available with tips and advice, all of which will help build your academic study skills.
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Get career ready Universities and employers are looking for more than a qualification. During your time with us, we will provide you with a great experience and lots of opportunities so you can develop the skills and qualities that they demand. Through our extensive enrichment programmes, you will develop essential life and employability skills to prepare you for an exciting future. Future Ready Our innovative Future Ready Enhanced Curriculum offers exclusive access to an inspiring range of activities outside of your main study programme. You will develop the global skills and personal qualities to prepare you for the careers of tomorrow including teamwork, communication, problem-solving, critical thinking, resilience, adaptability, and social and cultural awareness. You will have opportunities to apply these skills to real-life challenges, study in new tech environments, and take part in masterclasses and live projects to keep you ahead of the curve. Work placements We work with hundreds of employers to help you become career ready. Taking part in work experience or an industry placement will give you the edge in the job market and ensure you develop the skills, knowledge, and experience that employers demand. Project-based learning Our exciting project-based learning initiative is designed to bring the classroom and the world of work closer together. You will work with employers and industry experts and produce innovative ideas and solutions to real world issues and scenarios.
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Skills competitions You’ll have the opportunity to challenge yourself and showcase your newly developed skills and talent in regional, national, and even international competitions. They will look great on your CV and will develop your high-level technical skills. Recreational sport & games For students who enjoy the fun and social side of college life, our Youth Work team runs a series of timetabled gym, health, and wellbeing activities as well as weekly table tennis, dance, football sessions and more! Pastoral Framework We have career-ready sessions and workshops to develop your knowledge, skills,
and behaviours to help you discover your interests and talents. This prepares you for learning, life, and careers through an innovative programme across six themes: Career Planning and Destinations; Community; Health and Wellbeing; Preparation for Life; Next Steps and Progression; and Celebration of Success. Student Collectives Our Student Collectives group represents students from a range of backgrounds coming together to share insights about their cultural values, beliefs, and customs.
community, showcasing different traditions, languages, foods, and customs to foster a deeper understanding and respect for one another. Careers Fairs Throughout the year we host a series of inspirational Careers Fairs attended by leading local and national employers and universities to showcase the opportunities available to you when you leave college.
They work together to organise events to celebrate the rich diversity of our college
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Game on
Do you have a passion for sport? Combine your studies with an elite training programme and professional coaching in state-of-the art facilities, competitive matches, performance analysis and exclusive links with professional and semi-professional sports clubs. Our Sports Academies: • Men’s football (Hartlepool UFC partnership) • Women’s football • Men’s & women’s rugby • Netball • Basketball • Talented Athlete Scholarship Scheme (TASS)
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Hartlepool Sixth Form College Sports Academy
What do Sports Academy student-athletes receive? • A bespoke performance plan • First-class training from professional coaches • Free membership to on-site gym • VEO performance analysis • On-site strength and conditioning training • Opportunity to compete in national tournaments such as the AoC Championships as well as trips to leading US universities Our Sports Academies are open to all Hartlepool Sixth Form College students, so you don’t have to be studying a sports qualification to be involved!
TALENTED ATHLETE SCHOLARSHIP SCHEME If you are a talented athlete and represent your sport regionally and/or nationally, we can support you with a Talented Athlete Scholarship. The Sport England supported scheme brings the best out of the country’s most exciting talented athletes by helping them balance sport with their education.
Hartlepool Sixth Form College Sports Academy partners:
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Your next step Academic, vocational, technical. Find the right route for you. Thinking about the career path you’re interested in and choosing the right type of course will help you study something you’re passionate about and guide you towards an exciting and rewarding future.
A-Levels
T Levels
Our A-Levels will enable you to study academic subjects in more depth and are great preparation if you are thinking of going to university. You will gain knowledge across a suite of academic subjects and have access to an extensive enrichment programme.
Our T Level qualifications will give you the opportunity to experience an industry while studying. You will gain a high-quality, technical qualification and job-specific skills and knowledge through a combination of classroom learning and placement to develop practical and technical skills.
V Levels
Technical courses
V Levels are vocational qualifications which combine classroom learning with practical, work-relevant skills, allowing you to explore different industries and sectors before choosing where to specialise. They can be taken alongside A-Levels or other V Levels giving you a flexible, careerfocused pathway after GCSEs.
These courses are designed to prepare you for a career or higher-level study. You will gain skills for a specific sector and experience a more practical way of learning to develop your skills and knowledge.
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Progression to Sixth Form This one-year programme has been tailormade to provide opportunities for schoolleavers who may not have achieved the required grades at GCSE to study A-Levels, T Levels, or other Level 3 Technical courses. You will benefit from a supportive learning environment and full access to our vibrant sixth form community, as well as enrichment opportunities and work placements. We will nurture your potential, ensuring you gain the English, maths, science and IT skills and knowledge to succeed. Entry requirements and achievements will be reviewed on an individual basis at enrolment.
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Coming September 2027 LEVEL 3: V LEVELS V Levels are new vocational Level 3 qualifications which combine classroom learning with practical, work-relevant skills, allowing you to explore different industries and sectors before choosing where to specialise. They can be taken alongside A-Levels or other V Levels giving you a flexible, career focused pathway after GCSEs. V Levels may suit you if you: • Want applied, practical learning without specialising too soon. • Are interested in combining vocational and academic subjects. • Want strong progression options after college or sixth form. What can I do with a V Level? After studying a V Level, you could progress into related Higher Education or work-based training, including apprenticeships.
V LEVEL SUBJECTS AVAILABLE: •A ccounting & Finance •D igital Systems •E ducation
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LEVEL 2: FURTHER STUDY & OCCUPATIONAL CERTIFICATES
Further Study Pathway
Occupational Pathway
The Further Study Pathway is one of two new Level 2 routes for students who are not yet ready to progress to Level 3 study when they leave school. The Pathway provides a broad introduction to each subject and provides a stepping stone to A-Levels, T Levels or V Levels.
Designed for students who are clear about the type of career they want to move into, the Occupational Pathway includes Occupational Certificates as part of a two-year programme to prepare you for progression to skilled employment and apprenticeships.
The Further Study Pathway may suit you if you:
The Occupation Pathway may suit you if you are:
• Need more time to build your confidence, knowledge and skills before moving to Level 3 study. • Would benefit from an additional year of structured support and preparation. • Need to strengthen English and/or maths alongside your main studies.
• Confident about your career direction. • Want classroom-based preparation for work. • Prefer a structured route focused on progression to employment. • Would like support to build your skills and confidence.
What can I do with a Foundation Certificate?
What can you do with Occupational Certificates?
After completing the Level 2 Further Study Pathway and achieving your Foundation Certificate, you can progress to a range of A-Levels, T Levels, or V Levels provided you meet the entry criteria.
After studying an Occupational Certificate, you could progress into skilled work or an apprenticeship.
LEVEL 2 (FURTHER STUDY) SUBJECTS AVAILABLE:
LEVEL 2 (OCCUPATIONAL) SUBJECTS AVAILABLE:
• Digital Data & Systems • Education & Childcare
• Early Years Practitioner • Hospitality
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Entry requirements Our entry requirements vary for each course*. We offer courses at various levels, so even if you don’t have any formal qualifications, we are confident we will have the right course or subject for you. If you are unsure which level you should apply for, our expert team can provide all the information, advice and guidance you need to make an informed decision. You can find out more at one of our open events held throughout the year, or by emailing guidance@ educationpartnershipne.ac.uk.
LEVEL 2
LEVEL 3 “I have at least 2 GCSEs at grade 3”
“I have at least 2 GCSEs at grade 3”
“I have at least 4 GCSEs at grade 4 or above”
These intermediate courses will provide you with a route into a career or prepare you for higher level study.
These advanced courses will challenge you and develop your understanding of a subject area, preparing you for employment or degree level study.
Level 2 Technical & Vocational; Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeships; Level 2 Further Study & Occupational Certificates
A-Levels; V Levels; T Levels; Level 3 Technical & Vocational; Level 3 Apprenticeships
*Entry requirements are subject to change. Please check our website for the most up-to-date information.
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Studying English and maths at college English and maths are important life skills that will support you in achieving the most from your studies and progression to your chosen career.
• A grade 1-3 in GCSE English and/or maths at school, you will re-sit your GCSE qualification at college.
Employers and universities require them, and GCSE English and maths qualifications could be the difference between being accepted onto a university course, securing employment, or gaining a promotion.
Real world maths If you are a Level 2 student, you will receive ‘Real world maths’ sessions tailored and relevant to the sector you are studying, where you will see first-hand how the skills you are developing are essential to your career progression.
If you have achieved: • A grade 4-9 in GCSE English and/or maths at school, you will develop your English and maths skills throughout your course at college.
• A grade U in GCSE English and/or maths at school, we can discuss the best English and maths study options for you at college.
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Academies & Pathways Our exclusive Academies each have several pathways, so you can follow a bespoke programme of study that is tailored to your future ambitions, whether that is progressing to university or into employment. When choosing what to study, it’s important to consider subjects that link, cross over or complement each other, or ones that are required by universities. We recommend you have at least 5 GCSEs at grades 4-9 to apply for courses within one of our Academies.
Creative & Culture Academy Potential career routes: music production, performing arts or media.
Pathway
Core subjects
Creative Arts
A-Level Art & Design; Games Design; Animation & VFX (NextGen)
Performing Arts
Music (single option/one A-Level equivalent); Performing Arts (single option/one A-Level equivalent)
Media & Film
A-Level Film Studies; A-Level Media Studies
Health, Education & Childcare Academy Potential career routes: nurse, care worker, paramedic, therapist, teacher, nursery assistant or childminder.
Pathway
Core subjects
Health
AAQ Health & Social Care; T Level Adult Nursing; Foundation to T Level: Health & Science
Social Care
AAQ Health & Social Care
Education
T Level Education & Childcare (Early Years Educator)
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Humanities & Social Sciences Academy Potential career routes: sociology, law or criminology.
Pathway
Core subjects
Social Sciences
A-Level Economics; A-Level Politics; A-Level Psychology; A-Level Sociology; Criminology
Humanities
A-Level English Language; A-Level English Literature; A-Level Geography; A-Level History; A-Level Politics
Legal, Finance & Accounting
A-Level Law; Criminology; T Level Legal Services (Crime, Criminal Justice & Social Welfare)
Business & Entrepreneurship
A-Level Business; A-Level Economics; Business; Travel & Tourism (single option/A-Level equivalent)
Marketing & Communication
A-Level Media Studies
Uniformed Services
Uniformed Public Services
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Sports Science Academy Potential career routes: sport & exercise science, coaching or fitness.
Pathway
Core subjects
Sports Scientist
A-Level Biology; A-Level Psychology
Sport, Coaching & Fitness
Sport & Exercise Science; Sport; Sports Coaching & Development; Extended Certificate Sport & Exercise Science (single option/A-Level equivalent)
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STEM & Digital Academy Potential career routes: medicine, dentistry, veterinary, engineering or law.
Pathway
Core subjects
Medicine, Dentistry & Health Science
A-Level Biology; A-Level Chemistry; A-Level Maths; A-Level Physics
Digital & Computing
A-Level Computer Science; Design & Development
Maths, Physics & Engineering
T Level Engineering Design & Development; Engineering
Progression support Whatever your future ambitions, we will support you through exciting opportunities such as: • Working with UCAS and UniFrog to help you prepare for university. • Medical UCAT and Law LNAT university entry examinations. • Engaging with widening participation schemes and summer school so you can secure your university place. • CV writing support and workshops, careers fairs, visits and trips, and masterclasses.
*UCAS Undergraduate Data 2024-25
96%
of our students secured their chosen university place* HARTLEPOOLSIXTH.AC.UK | 37
Your application journey
Attend an Open Event Explore your campus, discover your options and meet our teachers
Apply now
Scan here to apply
AUG
Enrol Get set for September
Come along to a Bridging Event Experience two days in the life of a college student
First day!
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*Optional event
Information for parents & carers You want the very best for your child, and so do we. Choosing the right college and course can be exciting but also confusing for young people and their parents, guardians, and carers.
The most important thing you can do to help your child is to make sure you are fully informed, listen to your child, be open minded and encourage them to explore all the options available to them. Attending college open events with your child is a great way to find out all about future study and career options. Why choose Hartlepool Sixth Form College? At Hartlepool Sixth Form College we will give your child an outstanding education and experience through our careers-focused curriculum and state-of-the-art facilities. We have one of the widest range of courses in the region, including A-Levels, T Levels, and technical courses.
We offer so much more than a qualification Our staff are friendly, approachable and make a positive difference to the lives of our students – motivating, challenging, and supporting them throughout their time with us. They will get involved in enrichment opportunities such as competitions, talks with industry experts, volunteering, trips and visits, networking, and careers events, to give them a full wraparound experience on campus. We also work in partnership with employers and universities to provide students with valuable experiences to give them the edge in whatever career path they wish to take.
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Financial support Did you know that we can help you with the cost of college? Students aged 16-18 years old are not required to pay course fees on most of our full-time study programmes. If your household income is less than £30,000, we can support eligible students with transport to college as well as course-related costs such as uniform, kit, equipment, books, trips and UCAS fees. If your income does not exceed the thresholds, your child could also be eligible for free college meals. Visit our website for Welfare Support Information, where you can also apply for support online or contact welfare@ educationpartnershipne.ac.uk if you have any other queries. Support and wellbeing The wellbeing of our students is our main priority. We are committed to offering a space where they will feel safe, inspired, valued, and respected. For any students with specific learning needs, our Inclusive Support Team will be with them every step of the way. There is always advice and support available if they, or you, need it.
Safeguarding Children, Young People & Vulnerable Adults Hartlepool Sixth Form College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults, and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This means that we have a child protection and safeguarding policy and appropriate procedures in place. All staff, including volunteers and governors, must ensure that they are aware of these procedures and receive training.
97%
of our students said they felt safe at college*
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*Education Partnership North East On Programme Survey 2025-26, 16-18 students
GCSE grades explained GCSE qualifications are now awarded on a grade scale of 9 (highest) to 1 (lowest). GCSE grade
Entry requirements
9
A*
8
A
7
B
6
B
5
C
4 3
D
2
E
1
F
U
U
G
Alumni By joining Hartlepool Sixth Form College’s Alumni Network, you can celebrate your success, inspire current students, and build valuable professional connections. As part of our network, you may be invited to share your career journey through talks, mentor students, support careers events, contribute industry insight, or help create opportunities such as placements and workplace visits. Your experience can make a lasting impact on the next generation of learners.
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Keep in touch Find out all our latest news and keep up to date with the exciting activities happening at Hartlepool Sixth Form College by following us on our socials! @hartlepoolsixth @hartlepoolsixthform
Contact us info@hartlepoolsixth.ac.uk 0300 770 3000 hartlepoolsixth.ac.uk
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Carbon footprint We are always conscious of our impact on the environment and actively work to reduce our carbon footprint. When you no longer need this guide, please recycle it, upcycle it, reuse it or pass it on to someone who you think would find it useful. This guide is printed on Forest Stewardship Council® Recycled certified paper and is fully recyclable. The FSC® logo identifies products which contain wood from responsible sources certified in accordance with the rules of the Forest Stewardship Council®. Disclaimer Printed July 2026. Information is correct at time of publication. Prospective students, parents, and schools should check with the college for most up to date information. Courses or other details may be withdrawn or modified if necessary. Programmes of study leading to a qualification are subject to the approval and regulations of awarding bodies and the Department for Education (DfE). Many thanks to all our students, past and present, who appear in this prospectus. If you require this guide in an alternative format, please call 0300 770 8000 or email info@educationpartnershipne.ac.uk.
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Join us in September
Apply now!
You can recycle me