Frequently Asked Questions

Your study programme will be made up of three A-levels. If you are struggling to decide which three A-levels to choose then you will be guided throughout the interview and enrolment process to help you find the most suitable fit.

Bury College offers a range of Applied A-levels which include Criminology, Financial Studies, Law, Applied Science, Engineering and Sport. These subjects have a coursework based component and have a higher vocational-based content and assessment process. As part of your A-level study programme, you may include one of these applied subjects.

T Levels combine classroom theory with practical learning and a work placement which is organised by the college. The industry placement will be for a duration of 45 days and will give young people a great insight into the working environment. T Levels are two-year courses and are equivalent to three A-levels.

You will choose one vocational subject to study during your time at Bury College. This option will appeal strongly to those students who have an interest in a career or a specific vocation and those that want to use practical and theoretical learning to develop work related skills and a technical understanding.

An apprenticeship is a job! An apprenticeship provides you with a direct insight into the industry you would like to progress your career in. You will enjoy earning a wage whilst gaining nationally recognised qualifications and training which helps to improve your career prospects. Bury College offers apprenticeship programmes in a wide range of areas – discover more here https://burycollege.ac.uk/courses/apprenticeships/apprenticeship-subjects/

In order to further develop your knowledge and employability skills, every student is taught how to study independently - a skill which is now recognised as a university requirement. In order to achieve maximum results, we recommend you spend 18-20 hours a week on independent study.

Bury College Study Programmes have been designed to meet individual needs and to prepare you for your next steps. As well as your main qualification aims, your Study Programme will include further development of critical skills to support your progression, including English, Mathematics and employability skills. You will also have the opportunity for work experience or volunteering and to get involved in a wide range of enrichment activities as part of your Study Programme.

Each course is different and some subjects will ask for a higher grade in certain GCSE subjects, however this is a general overview for each pathway:

A-levels

At least 6x GCSEs with:

3x GCSEs at grade 5

3x GCSEs at grade 4

Including GCSE grade 4 in English and maths

T Levels

5x GCSEs at grade 9-4 including maths and English.

Students with a Level 2 Extended Certificate/Diploma qualification or Apprenticeship will also be considered.

Vocational Programmes

Level 3 a minimum of 5x GCSEs at grade 9-4

Level 2 a minimum of 4x GCSEs at grade 9-3

Level 1 a minimum of 4x GCSEs at grade 9-2

Foundation Studies - Entry by interview

Apprenticeships

Specific entry requirements may be applicable. You will also be expected to have an interest or knowledge of your chosen sector and to pass a numeracy or literacy test.

If you have not yet achieved your Grade 4 at GCSE in either English and/or Maths, you will need to continue to study these subjects as part of your timetable.

At Bury College we offer an extensive enrichment programme. You will have the opportunity to take part in activities that contribute to your development and in many cases will support your academic subjects. Enrichment includes Debating Club, Film Club and a range a sports activities*.

*Please note that Enrichment content varies from year to year.

Many Bury College students will be entitled to an Our Pass which allows all 16-18 year old students to travel across Greater Manchester at any time, for FREE. This makes travelling to and from Bury College really easy! Any students who are not eligible for Our Pass can apply for financial support to help them with travel expenses. For more information please contact the Bury College Student Services Team.

You are not required to wear a uniform at Bury College. However, some courses such as Construction and Engineering, may require Personal Protective Equipment. Other courses such as Hairdressing, Beauty, Sport and Public Services may require you to wear a uniform or specific clothing. You will be told more about this during your interview and enrolment.

Bury College aims to provide you with the best start to your career and strongly believes in the value of completing work experience placements. During your full-time study programme you will have the opportunity to take part in work experience and secure skills for your career. This will allow you to develop transferable work-related skills and gain an insight into the career of your choice. The college has dedicated Work Experience Placement Co-ordinators to help you secure placements and gain quality experience.

We welcome online applications all year round – you can apply here: https://burycollege.ac.uk/apply-now/apply-online/

We are continuing to conduct supportive telephone interviews to students where you can chat to our experienced staff about the opportunities available.

You can complete and submit your application on the Bury College website at https://burycollege.ac.uk/apply-now/apply-online/.

Ask yourself “What am I good at? What do I enjoy? Or what can I see myself doing in the future?” Think about what subjects you enjoy at school and choose subjects that you love. Additionally, you can arrange on advice and guidance interview at college.

Once an individual has enrolled at Bury College, parents or guardians will be invited to join the parent portal which provides a range of information. Parents or guardians will also be invited to parent’s evenings which will be an opportunity to discuss the progress their child is making.