18-Month A Level Courses
Ashbourne’s small, close-knit college environment and focused class sizes allow us to provide highly personalised support, helping students complete their A levels in just 18 months and achieve outstanding results.
Ashbourne’s small, close-knit college environment and focused class sizes allow us to provide highly personalised support, helping students complete their A levels in just 18 months and achieve outstanding results.
The 18-month A level course starts in January and has been designed for students unable to join the two-year A level course in September.
It is perfect for students moving schools, relocating or coming from another country with a different academic calendar, for example.
Students can choose from a range of A level subject choices, without restriction.
During Year 12 (first year), students on this programme receive a higher number of teaching hours to ensure full coverage of the required material. The remaining content is delivered across the three terms of the second year. Where appropriate, the College also offers additional classes and support outside of term time to help students stay on track and achieve their full potential.
Ashbourne students consistently achieve outstanding results, with 52% A*A in 2024–2025 and a 10-year average of 51% A*A, placing us among the top A level colleges in London.
We offer exceptional levels of individual attention, place a real emphasis on exam technique and provide generous teaching hours for each course.
As a result, students are encouraged to take responsibility for their own success and make great improvements in their performance.
Around 63% of our students applying for degree courses in the UK go on to study at Russell Group universities, including UCL, King’s College London, Imperial, Warwick and Cambridge.
Class sizes are deliberately kept small so students can engage more effectively and received plenty of one-to-one attention from their teachers.
This also allows the teacher to set more assigned work and half-termly mock exams, which are critical to achieving the highest grades.
Student will have plenty of time to discuss their progress and renew targets with their teacher and Personal Tutor.
Ashbourne gives students greater freedom and flexibility than most traditional schools.
We work with each student from the outset to design an educational programme that best suits their ambitions and aptitude and then provide the comprehensive support needed to reach their goals.
Every A level student is assigned a dedicated Personal Tutor who will guide and support them personally and academically throughout their time at the college.
They also provide expert careers advice and one-to-one UCAS support, from choosing the right course, interview practice all the way to accepting the best offer.
We encourage students to wholeheartedly embrace this adult-approach to learning which we believe fosters independent thinking, collaboration, discipline and high expectations.
Everyone at the college is expected to play their part in helping to make Ashbourne a friendly, safe and vibrant place to learn.
Ashbourne is superbly situated in a beautiful part of London near Kensington Palace and Hyde Park. We have a great selection of world-class attractions and venues within walking distance of the college, such as the Royal Albert Hall and the Science, Natural History and Design museums.
We welcome students from all over the world, making the college a vibrant and exciting place to learn.
Click here to contact our admissions team if you’re ready to apply or want to explore our offering further.
1. What are 18-month A-level courses?
Our 18-month A-level courses begin in January and are designed for students who cannot start the traditional two-year programme in September. They allow students to complete the full A-level syllabus in a shorter time frame.
2. Who are 18-month A-level courses suitable for?
These courses are perfect for students relocating, moving schools, or coming from a country with a different academic calendar. They provide a flexible way to transition smoothly into the UK education system.
3. How are 18-month A-level courses structured?
In the first year (Year 12), students receive extra teaching hours to cover core material quickly and thoroughly. The remaining content is delivered across the three terms of Year 13, with additional support offered where needed.
4. How does Ashbourne support both success and individuality?
We value academic achievement while encouraging students to express their individuality in a respectful way. Whether that means pursuing unique interests, developing personal style, or even dyeing your hair red, the college fosters a community where students feel confident to be themselves while striving for success.
