Yes. Colleges have courses at many different levels, and they will help you to identify the right level for you. You will be able to learn English & maths alongside your college course. Again, whether this is Entry Level, Level 1 or a GCSE will depend on the level you are at now, but the college will be able to make sure you are studying at the right level.

There is a starting point for everyone at college regardless of whether you were able to take any exams or not. At enrolment, Colleges will place you on the right level course.    

Some employers will accept candidates with no GCSEs in English and maths. If you haven’t achieved Grade 4 or above you will be required to continue studying English and maths as part of your apprenticeship programme.

If you are quite certain about the type of job you wish to apply for you could consider the apprenticeship route, if not you may want to consider your options at college.  Please talk to your school/college Careers Adviser or if you have left education contact us via our website

www.birminghamcareersservice.co.uk

You still need to enrol at the college as requested, and the admissions staff will let you know if you have a place on your chosen course.  If they decide your grades are too low for that course, it is very likely that they will be able to offer you to start on a lower level qualification or offer you another course.  For example, you might be offered a Level 2 Diploma in Business instead of your original course of Level 3 Diploma in Business, or instead of A levels in science you are offered a Level 3 Diploma in Applied Science.  Don’t worry as there is a starting point for everyone at college, and there are many different routes into most careers. 

Yes, all Colleges offer young people the chance to improve their Grades in GCSE maths and English alongside a vocational programme, eg business, health & social care etc.  If your GCSE Grade was below 3 then you will start by studying Functional Skills in Numeracy and Literacy, which allow you to achieve an equivalent to GCSE Grade 4.

Put simply, a study programme (sometimes called a pre-apprenticeship course)  is a stepping-stone to get into the industry of your choice.  You start this programme before an apprenticeship to prepare you for working in the environment of your choice. You will gain qualifications that prepare you for the next level of education or for employment.  English and Maths if you have not achieved GCSE

Grade 4. Work Experience to develop your career choices and get a first taste of work. Activities to enhance your CV.

To find out more contact us at: www.birminghamcareersservice.co.uk/contact  – one of our Advisers will contact you. You can also call, text or email us.