How to Choose an A level/Sixth Form College

Choosing where to study your A levels is a big decision, and not just because it affects your grades. The right sixth form college can shape how confident, supported, and motivated you feel over the next two years. With so many options available, how do you decide what’s right for you?
Here’s what to think about when choosing your sixth form college.

Think About the Learning Environment
One of the biggest differences between colleges is how the classes are run. Do you learn best in big lecture-style sessions, or do you prefer small classes where you can ask questions and get to know your teachers?

At Ashbourne, class sizes are kept deliberately small, usually fewer than ten students. This allows teachers to give you proper attention, adapt lessons to your needs and challenge you in a way that’s personal and motivating. Students build strong relationships with teachers, which makes learning more enjoyable and more effective.

Consider the Atmosphere
You’ll be spending a lot of time at college, so you want to feel comfortable. Visit if you can. Pay attention to how students interact, whether the staff seem welcoming, and if the environment feels right for you.

Ashbourne prides itself on being welcoming, inclusive, and supportive. It’s also lively, ambitious and full of people who want to work hard without losing their individuality. Students here are treated like young adults, and the result is a community that’s mature but relaxed, respectful but informal.

Ask About Academic Support
A-levels are demanding, and it’s important to know how you’ll be supported. Some colleges provide a lot of individual guidance, while others expect you to be more hands-off. Find out whether you’ll get help with things like:

– Study techniques and revision planning
– Personal statement writing
– UCAS and university applications
– Catch-up sessions if you fall behind

Ashbourne offers all of this through one-to-one tutorials, targeted academic support, and a strategic, no ceilings approach to progress. If you’re struggling, we will go the extra mile to help you get back on track.

Think About Flexibility and Structure
Do you want a strict daily schedule, or more freedom to manage your time? Some students work best with fixed routines, while others thrive with flexibility. At Ashbourne, students benefit from personalised timetables that leave room for independent study, rest, and individual check-ins. You’re expected to take responsibility for your time, but you’re never left to figure it all out alone.

This helps students prepare for university-style learning while still having support along the way.

Look for Enrichment and Community
A great college is about more than academics. Look for places that encourage extracurriculars, creativity, collaboration and leadership. At Ashbourne, highlights of the year include Mock Week, followed by The Revue, our annual student-led show. It’s a chance to step outside of lessons, connect with others and contribute to something fun and meaningful.

Some last thoughts
Choosing a sixth form college isn’t just about league tables. It’s about how a place makes you feel, what kind of learning environment it creates, and how well it supports your goals. The right college will challenge you, support you, and help you become more confident in who you are, and what you can achieve.