Unlike technical qualifications, there is no work experience element to A-levels. Most learning tends to take place in the classroom and students build up theoretical knowledge in their chosen subjects.
If your child chooses to do A-levels, they will usually complete three different A-levels over the course of two years. They may choose to study four subjects in their first year, (three A-levels and one AS-level). They would complete and sit exams for the AS-level at the end of the first year and continue the other three subjects through to completion in their second year.
A-levels are predominantly assessed through exams. Like with GCSEs, exam boards develop and award AS and A-levels based on the subject content set out by the Government. In England there are four exam boards; AQA, OCR, Pearson, and WJEC Eduqas.
Key facts
- A range of subjects, with local availability varying
- Theoretical classroom-based learning
- Prepares young people for further study
Potential next steps
