A-Level courses : pathway to UK university

Overview

Advanced level General Certificate of Education (A-level) courses are the ‘gold standard’ qualification for a British university, taken by most UK students aiming for Higher Education. They are taken during the final years of UK high schools (secondary schools) from a wide choice.

An in-depth study of a specific subject, an A-level course is quite rigorous. Three subjects are normally taken, as this is the normal matriculation requirement of British universities. There are five passing grades : ‘A’ to ‘E’. Universities stipulate the grades required, or alternatively a ‘points’ requirement.

International students

Depending upon their existing academic qualifications, International students aiming for a British university may need A-level passes. High School grades are taken into account but students who haven’t completed High School are advised to sit at least two A-levels.

Small group classes and individual tutorials enable a student-focused approach and the support offered by the tutorial system helps students develop  the learning and writing skills required, and to help address any difficulty with the language element.  Where required, students also take an English (IELTS) qualification. 

We also offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma for entry into university. 

Courses Available

You are given expert guidance on the appropriate length of course and combination of subjects appropriate, according to your specific goals. Duration of courses are as follows :

Accelerated A-Level Preparation

A-level courses can be taken over one year from September. Five-term courses can be taken from January, ideal where the home country curriculum finishes in November or December. Tutorials enable rapid assimilation; these courses are often taught on a tutorial basis. 

Two Year A-Level Course

A-levels are normally taught over two years. The pace enables reinforcement of knowledge and understanding, plus extensive practice in using the material. A two year A-Level course begins in September. 

A-Level Retakes

It’s possible to retake A-Level subjects over an academic year, or for a shorter course, leading to the exam in June. Advice as to the length of the courses will hinge on the grade improvement needed. If you’ve been prevented from performing to your best ability and achieving your potential, a retake can be an effective course of action.

The Teaching

After careful discussion of specific needs and intentions, we place students with experienced A-level tutors.  

Teaching is student-focussed in small groups or through the tutorial method. The intensive student-focussed approach enables thorough dissemination of subject topics with student feedback and discussion, ensuring that individual understanding is complete, preparation work is satisfactory and that learning and writing skills are being mastered. Careful review and continual practice from previous examination questions ensures effective answering skills are developed.

We encourage systematic and well-focused revision and the acquisition of study techniques, including reading skills, note-taking and essay writing. An overall subject review as exams approach checks understanding and recall, and enables final practice with exam techniques.

Supervision and Testing

We oversee each student’s choice of programme and subsequent progress. By making a sensible and achievable choice of subjects according to the planned outcome, you have the best chance of success. A key is in choosing subjects that are the right ‘fit’; those that you enjoy and for which you have an aptitude. Our guidance and support begins at the point of application. 

Regular feedback and reports from tutors enable us to oversee progress and to help with any difficulties. Our experience over many years enables us to liaise where needed with academic staff to keep progress on track. A strategy is adopted to remedy matters if you fall behind with your studies. 

 

Accommodation

A safe and comfortable home environment is important to enable students to focus fully on their studies. Typically, placements are made in college residences, located in the centre of Oxford, or with friendly local host families in Oxford.  

A wide variety of options ensure that all students feel comfortable, happy and at home during their stay. Some students feel ready for fully independent living, opting for a university student experience, whereas others prefer to live in a family environment.     We provide careful help in arranging suitable accommodation and to provide pastoral support. 

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Term Dates

Michaelmas Term (Autumn)Hilary Term (Spring)Trinity Term (Summer)
Term BeginsSeptember 2026 (flexible start date)
January 2027 (flexible start date)April 2027 (flexible start date)
Term Ends18 December 202619 March 202725 June 2027