Step-up Pathway

Course Length: 1 year
Study Type: Full-time
Start Date: September 2025
Course Code: 72882-01

Course Overview

You work towards five GCSE qualifications. We now have two separate study routes available in this programme - Science and Humanities.

This course is suitable for applicants aged 16-18 who do not already have a full level 2 UK qualification (5 or more GCSE's at Grade C/4 or above) and wish to gain this in order to progress onto further study.

The course is designed primarily to prepare students for A-Level study, but a wide variety of other progression routes are available.  Your suitability for the course will be discussed at interview.

In addition during tutorials you will cover some of the skills necessary to become a more efficient and effective student, including time management and revision skills.

The course is delivered in dedicated and well-equipped teaching rooms at Leeds Sixth Form, Park Lane Campus. Within our dedicated 'Sixth Form' area, students also have access to an 'Independent Learning Zone', where comfortable seating and a suite of chrome-books are provided to facilitate independent study.

  • Entry Requirements
    There are no fixed entry qualifications for this course, and applicants may or may not have previously studied GCSEs.  Our experienced staff will consider the individual educational background, qualifications and experiences of each applicant.
    The requirement for entry is that students must have a reasonable chance of securing grade 4 or above in each of the subjects to be taken, at the end of one year of study.  Prospective students undertake Maths and English assessments during the interview process.
  • Benefits/Skills
    You will develop the academic skills, knowledge and understanding to enable you to progress to Level 3 study and pursue a university place leading to a professional career of your choice.
  • Units/Modules
    In year 1 of this programme, you will study a package of 5 GCSEs (following either a Science or Humanities pathway).
    The Science route will comprise of the following GCSEs:
    • English
    • Maths
    • Synergy Science (Double Award)
    • Citizenship/ Business

    The Humanities route will comprise of the following GCSEs:
    • English
    • Maths
    • English Literature
    • Business Studies
    • Citizenship

    Where one or more of these qualifications are already held at grade C/4 or above, an alternate combination of subjects may be able to be offered.
  • Careers/Progression
    Students who successfully complete year 1, demonstrate an appropriate attitude to study and gain 5 GCSEs at Grades 4-9 equivalent are supported to progress onto A-Levels in year 2. Other progression routes are also available.
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