Two Year A Level courses – join Year 12

A Level Focus

Bales was founded as an A Level College, and our main focus continues to be assisting students achieve success at A Level.

Students join us in Year 12 from a variety of academic backgrounds – whether from a state or private school.

Around 20% of our students join from overseas, whether due to family relocation or with the aim of achieving entry into British universities.

We have been teaching one and two-year A Level courses for over 40 years. In that time, over 4,000 students have taken A Level examinations with us.

Our ex-students now included politicians, diplomats, BBC news reporters, as well as top professionals in the medical and business world.

What type of students join Bales College

We accept students of mixed abilities (with a minimum of 5 passes at GCSE), who will add to the Sixth Form community. Some of our students have very strong academic backgrounds and performance, while others are looking to improve their academic performance in a new environment.

We look for students who exhibit the following characteristics – which we help you develop further during your time at the College:

Regular Exam Practice

All A-Level subject teachers give regular class tests based on topics studied throughout the year. Formal mock exams are given in December and April to help with preparation for upcoming A Level examinations. This regular practice helps build confidence and focuses each student’s mind on using the information learned in a practical way.

Work Placement, UCAS and Careers Advice

Throughout both Sixth Form years, students are helped both formally and informally by the teaching and support staff in applying for summer work placements, in developing their UCAS applications and in general careers advice.

Progression of learning

When starting Year 12, we are very aware of the need to direct students regarding how to study and to guide them in ways where they learn to study. This is done by providing a continuing process of suitable input from teachers dealing with the different subjects.

It can take at least the first year of the A-level program for a student to achieve a good level of skill in the study process, and we do this in a very positive way while being careful not to create artificial pressures.

Staff are available during the day for individual meetings with students who need extra support regarding the latest homework – these talks can clear possible delays in a student’s work schedule. Our staff are very experienced in teaching, many have postgraduate degrees and several work for examination bodies such as Edexcel.

Over a long period of time, we have helped students achieve more than they thought was possible, by setting standards, and working with each individual in a more uplifting way than they might have experienced previously.

The best way to get to know us is to call us to speak in person and arrange an informal visit to Bales Sixth Form College in London either at one of our open evenings or open days, or at a time of your choosing. Call 020 8960 5899 now to speak with us.

On a visit, you can meet with one of the leadership staff, teaching and support staff, as well as getting to see classes in action – all of which helps you to get a feel for what Bales Independent Sixth Form College has to offer.