Introduction to A Levels
What are A Levels?
Known as the academic ‘gold standard’, A Levels are recognised internationally as a mark of excellence .
A fantastic introduction to the study habits required by universities, they are the preferred entry qualification for many prestigious universities both in the UK and abroad. They are an excellent route for students with a strong academic record who hope to study at competitive institutions such as Oxford, Cambridge, Russell Group or Ivy League universities. Specific combinations of subjects are recommended for certain career paths, while other combinations of courses offer a wide range of flexibility for future study.
While some other 16+ qualifications focus on a broad education, A Levels allow you to focus on a few subjects relating to the course or career path you wish to pursue. Top rated A Levels are both well understood within the UK job market and valued highly by employers globally.
Whether you leave Headington Rye Oxford for Oxbridge, to study abroad or to join a prestigious school leaver programme, A Levels will develop strong transferable study skills and in-depth subject knowledge, preparing you perfectly for your next move.
How will I be assessed?
You will receive a grade of A*-E for each A Level subject you take. If you choose to take the EPQ alongside your other subjects, you will be graded on this according to the same scheme. This is worth the equivalent of half an A Level.
These grades are converted into points which are taken into account by UCAS for university applications. Oxbridge offers, for example, start from AAA depending on the subject while three good A Level passes would secure places at a range of top courses at universities worldwide.
The A Level programme at Headington Rye Oxford
You will choose three or four subjects to study at A Level. Maths and Further Maths are also available at AS Level.
Alongside your A Levels, you will choose three ‘Elective’ subjects to provide breadth, which you can read more about here. You will also complete a Critical and Creative Thinking Skills programme and have the option to supplement your studies with an Extended Project Qualification. This allows you to extend your learning, broaden your knowledge and develop the writing and study skills which will underpin your university course.
Last year, over 60 per cent of all A Levels taken at Headington Rye Oxford receive A*-A grades and nearly 90 per cent are graded as a B or higher.
You will study in small classes with expert teachers. Specialising in a smaller number of subjects enables you to devote more time to each one, exploring them in greater depth.
