SIXTH FORM GUIDE
WELCOME TO SELBY COLLEGE
Sam Wright Principal and Chief Executive of the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group
Choosing where to study after secondary school is a big decision, and at Selby College we are focused on helping every student reach their goals. Whether your ambition is to study at a world-leading university such as the University of Oxford, progress to our own University Centre, secure a higher apprenticeship or step confidently into employment, we will give you the support and opportunities to get there.
Our dedicated staff work closely with students to stretch their academic ability, develop essential life skills and build the confidence needed for success. We provide personalised guidance on university applications – including to Russell Group institutions – as well as strong employer links to open doors into a wide range of industries.
We know that education is about more than lessons alone. That’s why we’ve invested heavily in outstanding facilities, enrichment programmes and student support services, creating an environment where you can thrive both in and outside the classroom.
We are proud of the many students who have progressed from Selby College to prestigious universities and competitive careers, and we are here to ensure you have the same opportunities to succeed.
You can explore this for yourself by joining one of our Open Events (see page 27).
If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact our Course Information Team on 01924 789111, email courseinfo@heartofyorkshire.ac.uk, or visit www.selby.ac.uk.
SixthForm
at Selby College
“Selby College has a good range of courses and offers reliable support. I’ve been able to go on a number of trips throughout my time at the College, including Amsterdam to study The Netherlands’ legal system and a trip to explore the history of a Cotton Mill.”
PAULA
Studying Law, Criminology and History
5 REASONS TO STUDY WITH US
A high number of our students progress to positive destinations after completing their qualifications with us, including Russell Group universities.
SUPPORTIVE ENVIRONMENT 01 02 03 04 05
We offer a wide variety of stimulating and facilitating A Level courses, from Law to Art & Design. EXPANSIVE CURRICULUM
Our friendly and supportive environment means staff give you the time and dedication you need to help you progress.
We secure a highA Level pass rate and positive student destinations year-upon-year.
EXCELLENT TEACHING
Our highly-qualified teaching staff are specialists in their subject areas, ensuring our students learn from the very best.
RESULTS 2025
A Level pass rate across all subject areas 99% of students achieved high grades (A*-B) 32%
pass rate achieved on 12 out of 14 A Level courses 100%
YOUR STUDY PROGRAMME
At Selby College, we want you to succeed on your course and be ready for the future – whether that’s another course, university, an apprenticeship, employment or even starting your own business.
Our full-time study programmes for 16–18 year olds go beyond qualifications. Alongside your chosen subjects, you’ll take part in sessions that build skills and confidence, ensuring you’re fully prepared for your next step.
SUPPORT
You’ll have personal and group tutorials (called Goals) with your tutors, as well as further support from our highly skilled and dedicated team as needed.
NAVIGATE
Navigate is a programme of events and activities to develop your wider and employability skills, which include trips, visits, guest speakers, volunteering, enrichment, clubs and societies.
CAREERS SUPPORT
We provide excellent careers and next steps support, including work experience and other enrichment opportunities, as well as activities in College and visits further afield. We strongly believe in preparing students for their future,which means not only making sure they know the right answers but also ask the right questions.
We are accredited to the Matrix Standard, which is the international standard for Information, Advice and Guidance (IAG) services.
Find out more by contacting our Careers Team at: careers@heartofyorkshire.ac.uk
ALTERNATIVE ACADEMIC QUALIFICATIONS
We are excited to launch a brand-new range of Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualifications (AAQs) from September 2026.
These qualifications will provide students with meaningful, practical learning experiences across a wide range of sectors, such as Computing, Engineering, Health & Social Care and Medical Science.
WHAT ARE AAQs?
AAQs are advanced qualifications designed to give learners the best of both worlds - the academic rigour of A Levels with the practical application of vocational study.
+ Equivalent in size and level to one A Level.
+ Can be studied alongside other A Levels.
+ Blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills in a specific vocational area.
+ Carry UCAS points, opening doors to higher education.
+ Equip learners with the knowledge, skills and attributes needed for future employment.
WHAT COULD YOUR FUTURE CAREER LOOK LIKE?
PHOTOGRAPHER
Annual salary: £17,000 to £45,000
Take and process pictures of people, places, products and events.
TEXTILE DESIGNER
Annual salary: £18,000 to £40,000
Create fabric designs and patterns for woven, knitted and printed materials for clothes and interior furnishings.
MEDICAL ILLUSTRATOR
Annual salary: £28,000 to £43,000
Produce photographs, videos and graphical images for use in healthcare.
ART, DESIGN & PHOTOGRAPHY
Scan the QR code for full course details, including course-specific entry requirements.
WHAT DO OUR STUDENTS SAY?
“Studying art subjects has really expanded my creative skills as I’ve been able to do lots of practical work which I’ve really enjoyed. I’ve also had the opportunity to go on fun trips including the Yorkshire Sculpture Park and cinema. My advice to students wanting to study A Levels is to choose something you know you’ll enjoy.”
Eleasha
Studied Art & Design – Fine Art, Media Studies & Photography
WHAT COULD YOUR FUTURE CAREER LOOK LIKE?
BUSINESS ANALYST
Annual salary: £23,000 to £55,000
Investigate situations and problems to find improvements for businesses.
CHIEF EXECUTIVE
Annual salary: £45,000 to £120,000
Lead an organisation and put plans and policies into place to help it be successful.
BUSINESS PROJECT MANAGER
Annual salary: £29,000 to £75,000
Plan tasks and organise people and resources to complete work projects on time and on budget.
& MANAGEMENT
Scan the QR code for full course details, including course-specific entry requirements.
WHAT DO OUR STUDENTS SAY?
“I chose to study A Levels because of the passionate tutors and the engaging subjects and lessons. As part of my Law course, my classmates and I visited Amsterdam to learn about its legal system, so that we could draw comparisons between this and the UK’s legislation, which really helped with my learning.”
George Studied Law, Business and History
WHAT COULD YOUR FUTURE CAREER LOOK LIKE?
CYBER INTELLIGENCE OFFICER
Annual salary: £25,000 to £50,000
Gather information about where threats to Information Technology (IT) systems come from and how they work.
CONTENT CREATOR
Annual salary: £45,000 to £120,000
Create and post videos online about their life, specialist interests and products.
APP DEVELOPER OR WEB DEVELOPER
Average salary: £20,000 to £60,000
Design, build and maintain applications for mobiles, tablets and websites.
IT SUPPORT TECHNICIAN
Annual salary: £18,000 to £35,000
Identify and solve software and hardware problems on computers.
SIXTH FORM COURSES
COMPUTING & DIGITAL INDUSTRIES
Scan
WHAT COULD YOUR FUTURE CAREER LOOK LIKE?
PRODUCTION MANAGER
Annual salary: £24,000 to £65,000
Ensure manufacturing processes run smoothly and cost-effectively and deliver products on time.
MECHANICAL ENGINEER
Annual salary: £26,000 to £52,000
Design, build and install machinery used in industries like power, engineering, transport and manufacturing.
CAD TECHNICIAN
Annual salary: £17,000 to £35,000
Use software to design structures, machinery, goods and components.
MANUFACTURING SYSTEMS ENGINEER
Annual salary: £26,000 to £50,000
Design and install manufacturing machinery and production lines.
SIXTH FORM COURSES
ENGINEERING
WHAT COULD YOUR FUTURE CAREER LOOK LIKE?
SOLICITOR
Annual salary: £25,000 to £100,000 Advise clients about the law and act on their behalf in legal matters.
JOURNALIST
Annual salary: £18,000 to £45,000 Journalists research and write articles for local, regional, national and online publications.
ENGLISH & HUMANITIES
A Level English Language
A Level
English Literature
A Level Geography
A Level History
A Level Law
Scan the QR code for full course details, including course-specific entry requirements.
WHAT DO OUR STUDENTS SAY?
“I chose to study at Selby College due to the small class sizes and the amazing tutors. I enjoyed the subjects I chose and the tutors only grew this enjoyment, bringing passion to each subject and providing help when necessary. I learned something new every day.”
Evan Studied History, Psychology and English Language
WHAT COULD YOUR FUTURE CAREER LOOK LIKE?
MIDWIFE
Annual salary: £30,000 to £53,000
Support pregnant people and their babies before, during and after childbirth.
SOCIAL WORKER
Annual salary: £32,000 to £48,000
Help to protect vulnerable children and adults from harm or abuse and support people to live independently.
PARAMEDIC
Annual salary: £28,000 to £43,000
Respond to emergency call-outs and give people life-saving medical help.
SIXTH FORM
HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE
Scan the QR code for full course details, including course-specific entry requirements.
WHAT COULD YOUR FUTURE CAREER LOOK LIKE?
DATA ANALYST STATISTICIAN
Annual salary: £23,000 to £62,000
Collect numbers and statistics to identify trends, create models and present results.
ACCOUNTANT
Annual salary: £22,000 to £65,000
Help people and businesses manage their money effectively.
ACTUARY
Annual salary: £32,000 to £70,000
Work with companies and government departments to help them forecast long-term financial costs and investment risks.
SIXTH FORM COURSES
MATHS
Scan the QR code for full course details, including course-specific entry requirements.
WHAT DO OUR STUDENTS SAY?
“The A Level tutors at Selby College really care about your progression and are always encouraging you to do well. This includes taking part in extra-curricular activities such as the Intermediate Biology Olympiad competition, which helped to expand my knowledge and understanding of Biology. They also helped me with my personal statement and mock interviews for my university application.”
Henry Studied Biology, Business and Mathematics
WHAT COULD YOUR FUTURE CAREER LOOK LIKE?
BIOMEDICAL SCIENTIST
Annual salary: £25,000 to £45,000 Test patient samples and help doctors and healthcare professionals diagnose, prevent and treat disease.
CLIMATE SCIENTIST
Annual salary: £15,000 to £55,000 Studies changes in the Earth’s climate over time and how they might affect the planet in the future.
CHEMICAL ENGINEER
Annual salary: £30,000 to £60,000 Develop ways to turn raw materials into everyday products.
MEDICAL PHYSICIST
Annual salary: £35,000 to £58,000 Design, develop and test the scanning and imaging equipment used in the diagnosis and treatment of patients.
SIXTH
Scan the QR code for full course details, including course-specific entry requirements.
WHAT DO OUR STUDENTS SAY?
“I attended an Open Event where I realised Selby College would be the best fit for me compared to other colleges I visited. I’ve enjoyed doing the practical assignments and the independence I’ve had in directing my own learning, whilst also receiving support from my tutors to succeed. Taking part in practical laboratory assignments at universities and careers week activities introduced potential career paths to me and my specific interests.”
Chloe Studied Biology, Chemistry, Maths and EPQ
WHAT COULD YOUR FUTURE CAREER LOOK LIKE?
FORENSIC PSYCHOLOGIST
Annual salary: £27,000 to £54,000
Forensic psychologists study criminal behaviour and help people who have committed crimes.
WELFARE OFFICER
Annual salary: £21,000 to £30,000
Give support and free advice to the public on social, financial or personal issues.
HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICER
Annual salary: £18,000 to £40,000
Hire, develop and look after employees in a company.
SOCIAL SCIENCES
Scan the QR code for full course details, including course-specific entry requirements.
WHAT DO OUR STUDENTS SAY?
“Studying at Selby College’s Sixth Form was a better option for me in comparison to other colleges. I like how personable and supportive my tutors are, which means I get so much more out of my learning. I enjoy Law the most out of all my A Levels, mostly because of how we apply the legal system to essay questions. This has made me want to continue to study Law at university in the future.”
Gracie
Studied Law, Sociology, Criminology and EPQ
SIXTH
WHAT COULD YOUR FUTURE CAREER LOOK LIKE?
PHYSIOTHERAPIST
Annual salary: £29,00 to £36,000
Help people restore movement, relieve pain and improve physical function through tailored exercise and therapy.
SPORTS COACH
Annual salary: £18,000 to £28,000
Train, motivate and guide athletes to improve their skills, performance and teamwork in a specific sport.
SPORTS NUTRITIONIST
Annual salary: £30,000 to £50,000
Develop dietary plans to help athletes optimise their performance.
SPORTS PSYCHOLOGIST
Annual salary: £20,000 to £48,000
Work with athletes, teams and coaches to improve their motivation and performance.
WHAT A LEVELS MIGHT I NEED FOR UNIVERSITY?
Some universities will be very specific about which A Level subjects they would like you to study, others won’t be. There is no simple rule to this, except of course, do your research. The table below will give you an idea of some typical university subjects and the A Levels that they are likely to be looking for:
UNIVERSITY SUBJECT
ESSENTIAL A LEVELS
ACCOUNTANCY Mathematics
COMPUTING
ECONOMICS
ENGLISH
WE RECOMMEND EXPLORING UCAS SUBJECT GUIDES TO SEE WHICH SUBJECTS ARE MOST USEFUL FOR YOUR CHOSEN PATH, USING THE QR CODE:
Mathematics
Most courses require Mathematics, Economics
USEFUL A LEVELS
Business, Economics
Further Maths, Physics
Business
English Literature/Language (sometimes both required) Humanities, Social Science
ENGINEERING Mathematics, Physics
Chemistry
GEOLOGY/EARTH SCIENCES Mathematics, Science Geography
HISTORY History Law, English
LAW English Literature/Language History, Law
MEDICINE/DENTISTRY Chemistry, Biology Mathematics, Psychology
NURSING/MIDWIFERY Biology Chemistry, Psychology
OPTOMETRY Biology Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics
PHARMACY Chemistry, Biology Psychology, Maths, Biology, Physics
PHYSICS Physics, Mathematics
PHYSIOTHERAPY Biology
Further Science subject including Mathematics is recommended
PSYCHOLOGY Social Sciences Mathematics, Biology
VETERINARY SCIENCE Biology, Chemistry Mathematics or Physics is recommended
TYPICAL A LEVEL SUBJECT CHOICES THAT GO WELL TOGETHER ARE:
+ Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics
+ Economics, History, Geography
+ Business Studies, Economics, Mathematics
+ English Literature, History and one other
+ Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics
+ Psychology, Sociology and one other
+ Art, Photography and one other
MENTORING FOR EXCELLENCE
Are you a high-achieving student and see your future at one of the UK’s top universities? Then our Mentoring for Excellence programme is here to help you!
Thanks to the Mentoring for Excellence programme, many of our students go on to Russell Group universities - including Oxford and Cambridge - and into successful careers.
WHY TAKE PART IN THE PROGRAMME?
STRONG UNIVERSITY LINKS
We have strong connections with some of the UK’s top universities to support your progression.
UCAS SUPPORT
Access to workshops, work experience and mentoring to strengthen your UCAS personal statement.
BROADEN YOUR STUDIES
Option to take an additional subject alongside your A Levels and complete an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) to boost your UCAS application.
ENRICHMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Take part in trips, interactive workshops, guest talks and explore current affairs through structured activities.
FROM SELBY COLLEGE TO SOME OF BRITAIN’S TOP UNIVERSITIES
“The Sixth Form tutors at Selby College really care about your progression and are always encouraging you to do well. They also supported me with my personal statement and mock interviews for my university applications, which secured me a place to study Law at the University of Oxford.”
HENRY
A* student in Business, Biology and Mathematics
“I particularly enjoyed the small class sizes in each of my lessons. My tutors were incredibly generous with their time and provided feedback for all my past papers which really helped me. The flexibility of my A Level options meant I kept many academic doors open and developed both literary and scientific skills.”
“If you work hard from the first day and find a way to enjoy your work, you might just be surprised where it takes you!”
ALEXUS
Former A Level student Alexus who went on to study Engineering at Kings College, University of
Cambridge.
EMILY
English Language (A*), Maths (A*) and Biology (A*)
Secured a place studying Human Sciences at the University of Oxford before progressing on to a Master of Philosophy in Population Health Sciences, also at Oxford. She is currently studying at PhD in Genetic Epidemiology at the University of Cambridge.
ENRICHMENT
Student enrichment goes beyond the classroom, offering opportunities for learners to develop new skills, discover passions and gain valuable experiences - ensuring you thrive both academically and personally.
We make our courses varied and interesting by packing in extra features like guest speakers, visits and residential opportunities or overseas trips. Getting involved in extra activities can really boost your UCAS application to make you stand out from the crowd!
TRIPS AND VISITS
As a Sixth Form student, you will take part in a range of activities including residentials and visits to some of the UK’s top universities.
Highlights include a trip to Amsterdam for Law and Criminology students to compare UK and Dutch laws, and a visit to London’s Crown Court. Students have also taken part in specialist workshops at universities such as York and Durham, as well as activities during the College’s Careers Week.
All students are welcome to get involved in our exciting sport enrichment programme. It’s a great way to try something new, build skills, stay active and make new friends.
TEAMS AND ACTIVITIES
We offer a variety of lunchtime and Wednesday afternoon sports including Football, Netball, Basketball and activities such as Orienteering, Table Tennis, Zorb Football and more.
SPORT ACTIVATORS
Students can apply for a number of sport activator roles, including:
+ ECFA Activator
+ Inclusion Ambassador
+ This Girl Can Ambassador
+ Mental Health Ambassador
Students are appointed to help raise awareness of key issues and develop sport at the College and in the community. The Activators will help to arrange events and sessions to encourage new participants.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q] WHAT IS AN A LEVEL?
A Levels are the traditional academic route to university, focusing on theoretical study. They are mainly assessed through final exams, so success depends on your preparation and revision. Throughout the two years, you’ll complete assessments and mock exams to track progress and build confidence for your final exams.
Q] WHAT DOES STUDYING A LEVELS ENTAIL?
A Levels are a big step up from GCSEs. You’ll need to do lots of independent study, including homework, revision, reading and research. This prepares you for university and beyond.
Q] ARE A LEVELS RIGHT FOR ME?
You might like A Levels if you’re the kind of person who:
+ Enjoys academic learning and delving deep into subjects.
+ Wants to focus on a few areas of interest rather than a mix.
+ Is comfortable with exams and independent study.
+ Plans to go to university and needs specific qualifications to get there.
+ Likes structured lessons and clear academic progression.
+ Wants to keep future options open whilst still heading in a focused direction.
+ A Levels suit students who are curious, motivated and ready to explore subjects in depth.
Q] WHAT ARE OUR STANDARD ENTRY REQUIREMENTS?
Students will usually choose three subjects. The minimum requirement is at least five GCSEs at Grade 5 (or above), plus Grade 4 (or above) in English and Maths. Some A Levels will have additional requirements, such as a Grade 5 if the subject was taken at GCSE, or a Grade 5 or 6 in Maths. If you have not achieved a Grade 4 in Maths, you will be required to continue studying this alongside your course.
Q] WHAT CAN I PROGRESS TO AFTER STUDYING A LEVELS?
Our A Levels focus on subjects that open doors to higher education, including Russell Group universities. They also prepare you for higher apprenticeships or employment.
HOW TO APPLY
MAKING A DECISION...
Browse through the prospectus, come to our Open Events and talk to your parents, friends and teachers about the courses you’re interested in to help you decide what you want to study. If you are unsure what you would like to do, call us on 01924 789789 and ask for a careers appointment.
INVITED FOR INTERVIEW
You will be invited for an interview for your first choice course only. This is your chance to ask questions about your chosen course and make sure the course is right for you.
GET A TASTE OF COLLEGE LIFE
APPLY ONLINE
We will invite you into College to enrol for your chosen course in August, when you will become a full-time student. 01 03 05 06 04 02
Attend a New Student Day event in July to participate in course related activities, meet other students and find out what being a Sixth Form student at Selby College is like.
You apply online directly via the Selby College website: www.selby.ac.uk/apply
Please contact our Admissions Team on 01924 789110 or at admissions@heartofyorkshire.ac.uk if you have any questions about the application process.
CONGRATS!
Please accept your place by calling the Admissions Team on 01924 789110� or emailing admissions@heartofyorkshire.ac.uk
ENROLMENT
KEY DATES 2025/ 26
Scan the QR code or visit www.selby.ac.uk/events to find out more and register
OCTOBER 2025
OPEN EVENT
Saturday 18th October, 10am - 12pm
NOVEMBER 2025
OPEN EVENT
Wednesday 19th November, 5pm - 7pm
JUNE 2026
OPEN EVENT
Wednesday 17th June, 5pm - 7pm
JULY 2026
NEW STUDENT DAY
Attend a New Student Day event in July to participate in course related activities, meet other students and find out what college life is like.
FEBRUARY 2026
OPEN EVENT
Monday 9th February, 5pm - 7pm
HAVE YOU SUBMITTED YOUR APPLICATION?
If not, do so as soon as possible. Applications received by February Half Term will be given priority for an interview date. If you need advice please call our Course Information Team on 01924 789111.
AUGUST 2026
A Level, Vocational and T Level results released, as well as GCSE results. If you need help or advice about your next steps, visit our guidance events at your school or in college.
Enrolment begins from GCSE results day.
COLLEGE LIFE
As a Sixth Form student, you will be able to make the most of our state-ofthe-art facilities and expansive learning materials.
Our A Level curriculum is mostly delivered in our Sixth Form Centre in the Academy Building, which has dedicated classrooms and spaces for learners. The building is also home to our fully-stocked library and Student Central. We also have specialised science laboratories, sports facilities and an Art, Design, Photography and Media centre.
Our campus also has a range of social spaces, including our onsite Coffee Shop which proudly serves Starbucks coffee – providing you with a space to relax, grab a drink and meet with friends. Our Refectory also serves a range of delicious hot and cold food.
STUDENT CENTRAL
Student Central is your one-stop hub for support throughout your time at college. You can access a range of services here including the Students’ Union, Student Voice, Student Activities and Student Wellbeing.
ACTIVITY LEADERS
Make the most of your College life by becoming an Activity Leader and enjoy enrichment activities, clubs, social trips and special interest groups. As an Activity Leader, you’ll also support the Students’ Union, creating opportunities for you and your peers to connect, explore and grow.
VOLUNTEERING
Do you want the opportunity to develop key skills, become a leader, or work with other students or young people? We have lots of volunteering opportunities available so please contact your activity leader!
STUDENTS’ UNION
As a student, you’re automatically part of the Students’ Union – a democratic organisation run by students, for students. Annual elections offer you the chance to shape campus life, gain leadership experience and make your voice heard.
Plus, you can save money on everyday expenses with a Totum Card, available at cards.nusextra.co.uk
NAVIGATE
Navigate is a programme of events and activities to develop your wider employability skills. You’ll get a programme for the year during induction and additional activities and reminders will be advertised on a weekly basis.
For more information come and speak to us in Student Central.
STUDENT VOICE COUNCIL
Every class has a representative to ensure student voices are heard. By becoming a class rep, you’ll join the SVC, regularly meeting with staff to shape student experiences, influence decisions and drive positive change.
SUPPORT & WELLBEING
Whether you need someone to talk to, guidance on personal challenges or help accessing additional services, our Support & Wellbeing Team offers confidential, compassionate support tailored to your needs.
WORK PLACEMENTS
YOUR INSIGHT INTO THE WORKPLACE
As a Selby College Sixth Form student, you will have the opportunity to undertake work experience that is relevant to your studies. We have a dedicated Work Placements Team who have excellent links with local employers.
Work placements give you the chance to gain real-world experience, build valuable skills and explore potential career paths before you leave college. They help you understand what it’s really like to work in your chosen field and can give you a head start when applying for jobs or further study.
At Selby College, placements are flexible and designed to fit around your studies.
They can take place during term time, as extended opportunities alongside your course or as short projects during College breaks. Each one offers hands-on experience in a professional setting and helps prepare you for life after College.
Find out more about the wide range of work experience opportunities available by following the QR code.
the Work Placements Team on
or at:
