14th January 2025
Following GCSE’s, there are plenty of different study options and paths ready for you. One exciting choice you will need to make is where you want to study next if you are considering further education.
It may appear daunting, but there are positives for each choice. More options mean you can take the time to find what will work for you!
College, School sixth form or sixth form college – what is the difference?
College: Colleges offer lots of different qualification types for both post-16 and adult education. Depending on the college, it could be specialist (like agriculture or creative arts) or broad with lots of qualifications on offer from apprenticeships, diplomas to undergraduate degrees.
Sixth form college: The easiest way to describe sixth form college (or 6th form college) is a blend between further education colleges and school sixth forms. Not attached to any particular school or service provider, sixth form colleges offer post 16 qualifications across a range of subjects and qualification type exclusively for the 16-19 year olds.
School sixth forms: Attached to a secondary school, 6th forms predominantly offer A-levels and sometimes a selection of BTECs.
Benefits of going to a sixth form college
1. Fresh start: A benefit of joining a sixth form college is the chance to meet new and like-minded people and explore what interests you. Joining a sixth form college can provide you with a fresh start, and everyone is new at the same time.
At St Brendan’s, we have students from over 70 secondary schools, overseas and home school join us each September, meaning you will have plenty of opportunity to find your tribe.
2. A community that reflects you: Not only is sixth form college a good chance to meet new people and build a new routine in your city; what sets sixth form colleges apart from other colleges and secondary school sixth forms is that its exclusive for 16-19 year olds. That means everyone on campus is in your age group and point in life.
3. Course choice: In general, sixth form colleges are larger than sixth forms attached to secondary schools and therefore can offer more subjects and course types and timetable scheduling options.
At St Brendan’s, we have over 60 courses available to study from our singular Bristol college campus across BTEC and A-levels. You can learn more about subjects on offer here.
4. Campus feel: As opposed to being part of a secondary school premises, sixth form colleges for the most part have a designated campus. A benefit of joining a sixth form college compared to other types of community adult learning colleges for Post 16 study is that teaching and facilities have been designed for 16-19 year olds specifically.
By joining a sixth form college you will be encouraged to become more independent; managing your timetable and coming to college for lessons and independent study.
5. Support to help you thrive: Sixth form colleges offer a lot of support for students to help them achieve their potential and feel supported to overcome issues. At sixth form college you can receive careers guidance and support, and 121 and group tutor support to provide understanding on life beyond sixth form college.
St Brendan’s Sixth Form College campus sits in South Bristol, and welcomes students across Bristol, Bath and surrounding areas. With over 2,000 students studying BTEC and A-levels we pride ourselves on providing a welcoming and transformative atmosphere where every member of our community flourishes and achieves their full potential. We run open events throughout the year at our Bristol campus if you’re interested in learning more.
