Choosing Your Level and Entry Requirements

To support you in making the best choice for your individual needs we provide various levels of qualification at Tameside College, which means there is a level for everyone. To ensure that our students are successful in their studies, we require them to meet our entry requirements, however, you may hold other qualifications which may be useful to determine the level of course that is best suited to you.

GCSE G
  • GCSEs are well known qualifications, which at college are taken over 1 year.
  • GCSEs can be taken alongside any of our courses.
  • Maths and English GCSEs are a requirement for many of our courses.
Students who gain a grade 3 or below in Maths and English are expected to study as part of their study programme.
FOUNDATION
LEVEL F
  • Foundation level is for those who do not hold any formal qualifications prior to starting at college.
  • They help students develop personal and social skills whilst studying mathematics and English.
No formal entry requirements. However, all learners must demonstrate a willingness to learn and demonstrate behaviours and attitudes which support their progression and success.
LEVEL
ONE L1
  • Level 1 qualifications provide a starting point for progression to higher level vocational routes.
  • Courses run for 1 year and allow progression onto level 2 qualifications.
3 GCSEs at grade 1 or above.
LEVEL
TWO L2
  • Level 2 qualifications provide a good foundation for students who are planning a particular vocational route.
  • Courses run for 1 year and allow progression onto level 3 qualifications.
  • Students are assessed by assignment and practical skills.
4 GCSEs at grade 3 or a vocational qualification Level 1 in the chosen subject.
LEVEL
THREE L3
  • Level 3 qualifications provide routes for students wanting to progress onto higher education or employment.
  • Level 3 courses vary between 1 and 2 years and are equivalent to 3 A levels.
4 GCSEs at grade 4 including Maths and/or English or a vocational qualification Level 2 in the chosen subject.
LEVEL
T T
  • Equivalent to 3 A levels
  • 45 day industry placement
  • 80% classroom/workshop
  • 20% industry placement
  • 2 year study
  • Assessed by examination and practical work
  • Employer set projects
4 GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including Maths and English, at grade 4.