Exciting new A Level pathway coming to Guildford!
We will be opening a new A Level Centre at Guildford College from September 2025. This will be alongside launching our exciting new 3-stage A Level pathway. Learners will be able to progress to A Levels straight from their GCSEs or boost their grades with our STEP, STRIVE, STRETCH Programme with the ultimate aim of achieving their goals.
In preparation, from September 2024, the STEP and STRIVE offer will be available to enable progression to the A Level option, STRETCH, coming in September 2025.
We understand that there are many reasons why some students don’t achieve the GCSE grades that they hoped for. Our mission is to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to achieve the results that they are capable of and successfully progress to their chosen pathway.
Students will be able to choose from a broad range of A Level subjects, and GCSE programmes that are designed to support the development of academic and personal skills to allow learners to step-up to the next level of study.
All of our pathways are underpinned by regular and varied employer engagement opportunities and experiences, achieved through partnership arrangements with local universities and employers.
STEP (GCSE) – especially for students wishing to retake GCSEs, with grades of mostly 3s. You can choose from two pathways to suit your interests and aspirations and progress to employment, an apprenticeship, or a range of courses, including A Levels.
Full-time, one-year programme.
STRIVE (GCSE Plus) – a new entry point for students with grades of mostly 4s. An opportunity to boost grades before A Levels or other level 3 courses. It will comprise of mostly GCSEs at higher tier level, with the additional opportunity to experience Level 3 study with an AS Level. This course will equip learners with the academic skills and attributes required for success on a full A Level pathway, T Levels, or other higher-level study.
Full-time, one-year programme
STRETCH (A Level) – our A Level Programme for students with a minimum of 5 GCSE grade 5s, plus individual subject criteria. A broad range of options are available at our campuses.
Full-time, two-year programme (coming September 2025).
A Levels are versatile, internationally-recognised qualifications that are highly valued by employers and can help you gain entry to any university in the country. All A Levels, no matter the subject, will help you improve your communication skills and prove that you are capable of high-level academic work. So, if you haven’t decided yet on a career or further study, A Levels can help you keep your options open. During your time with us, we’ll also help you to pursue additional activities, both to broaden your skills and prepare yourself for life after college. Some students take up internships during the summer.
A Level students at Activate Learning benefit from our links with leading universities, such as the University of Reading, Oxford Brookes University, the University of Winchester and Southampton Solent University
In autumn each year, second year A Level students take part in UCAS Takeover Week, attending workshops run by universities on subjects such as personal statements and student finance. Each college also has a higher education fair, with over 40 university exhibitors on campus.
In addition to university links, employers such as Penningtons Manches, a leading law firm, provide legal masterclasses for A Level students.
Amina, A LevelsRead my storyCollege has taught me a lot, not just from the academic side, but a lot of personal growth as well. It’s taught me how to deal with different situations and how to be more aware of my surroundings.