November: Applications to NLA 6th Form open

November: NLA 6th Form Open Evening

February / March: 1:1 applicant interviews, course choice and career meetings with the 6th Form team.

March: Confirmation of places at NLA 6th Form

May and June: GCSE exams!

July: NLA 6th Form ‘Taster Day’

August: GCSE Results Day and NLA 6th Form enrolment

September: NLA 6th Form induction for Y12 and start of academic year

Our A-Level courses require students to achieve at least a Grade 6 in GCSE English Language and Mathematics with an overall GCSE average of a grade 6 or higher.

For our BTEC courses students need to achieve at least a Grade 4 in GCSE English Language and Mathematics with an overall GCSE average of a grade 4 or higher. (BTEC Engineering applicants must achieve a grade 5 in GCSE Mathematics)

*Where a subject choice for A-Level or Level 3 BTEC/Applied has not been studied at GCSE, discussions must be held with the Sixth Form team, or Curriculum Leader of the chosen course option in order to determine academic suitability based on appropriate alternative qualifications achieved, or additional academic entry assessment.

A Level Courses

BTEC and Technical Level Qualifications

The timetable of NLA 6th Form is structured to enable students to select complementary course combinations to enhance their experience and facilitate their progression to future careers and university study in line with our pre-designed student pathways.

Applicants should select at least three courses from different blocks/columns. Subjects in the same column cannot be studied together.

We are able to accommodate students studying 4 courses at 6th Form contingent on outstanding GCSE performance.

Double – Diploma qualification equivalent to two A Level courses

Single – Extended Certificate qualifications equivalent to one A Level course

What happens at the 1:1 applicant interviews?

Moving to Sixth Form is an exciting step into your future, and our primary concern is ensuring all our students receive the support and advice they need to make the right course choices when starting in Year 12.

While much of Sixth Form is familiar, there are differences from high school. Our meeting will provide an opportunity to ask questions and learn more. You will meet with one of our specialist Sixth Form team members, who will discuss your future ambitions and ensure your application includes the courses required for your desired university course or profession.

We will also discuss our Honours and Scholars Programmes, as well as outline the professional work experience, industry placements, and enrichment opportunities available in Sixth Form that will enhance your future progression. We value the opportunity to get to know you and answer your questions, so we can provide you with the qualifications and experiences necessary to thrive when you join NLA Sixth Form.

Who can apply to join NLA Sixth Form?

Any student currently studying GCSE qualifications in Year 11 at any school in the UK.

Can I look around NLA Sixth Form before I apply?

We would be delighted to welcome prospective applicants from across the city to tour NLA Sixth Form during our Open Evenings.

I have a question, who do I ask?

We have anticipated many of the questions you might have about applying to NLA Sixth Form, so please check our website and prospectus first. If you or your parents cannot find the answer you need, we would be happy to assist you. Please email our Head of Sixth Form using the [CONTACT FORM].

Do you offer Level 2 qualifications?

No, Level 2 qualifications are equivalent to GCSEs. All the courses we offer are Level 3 qualifications (A-level or equivalent), which are required for progression to university, Higher Apprenticeships (Level 4), and professional employment. If you achieve a grade 3 in either English or Maths at GCSE, provided you have at least a grade 4 in the other subject (English/Maths) and meet all other subject-specific entry criteria for your chosen courses, you would still be eligible for a Level 3 qualification offer. This would include a resit programme for the GCSE subject in which you did not achieve a passing grade of 4.

Can I apply to more than one Sixth Form provider?

Yes, we encourage all students to explore the offerings of various institutions across the city to find the best fit. Most students apply to two or three colleges. As long as you have submitted an application to NLA Sixth Form, your place will be guaranteed, allowing you to make a final decision on GCSE results day.

Do you have a Sixth Form uniform?

Yes, all of our Sixth Form students are required to wear our uniform at all times. Students studying Sport Studies or Performing Arts will also be allocated an NLA tracksuit, which they may wear. We maintain high expectations and standards in Sixth Form, and our uniform policy supports this.