Ashbourne College is one of the best private A level colleges in London. It provides outstanding individual attention to ensure that each student reaches their academic potential; see the range of courses offered below.
| A level subject | Board |
| Biology | OCR |
| Chemistry | EDEXCEL |
| Classical Civilisation | OCR |
| Computer Science | OCR |
| Drama & Theatre Studies | AQA |
| Economics | EDEXCEL |
| English Literature | EDEXCEL |
| Film Studies | WJEC Eduqas |
| Fine Art | AQA |
| French | EDEXCEL |
| Geography* | AQA |
| German* | EDEXCEL |
| Graphic Communication | AQA |
| A level subject | Board |
| History | AQA |
| History of Art | EDEXCEL |
| Italian* | EDEXCEL |
| Mathematics | EDEXCEL |
| Further Mathematics | EDEXCEL |
| Music | AQA |
| Philosophy | AQA |
| Physics | AQA |
| Politics | EDEXCEL |
| Psychology | AQA |
| Spanish | EDEXCEL |
| Textiles | AQA |
*Please consult with Admissions about these courses
Why Choose Ashbourne College?
StudentsParentsTeachers
Being a student at Ashbourne College has given me the independence and confidence to continue to University with ease. I began my two-year course unaware of what I wanted to continue to do, but with the constant support of my teachers throughout my time, I was able to consider various options of further study with enthusiasm. After graduating from Ashbourne I plan to attend Kings College to study Psychology. The independence I have gained from Ashbourne means that I can confidently embark on the next chapter of my life
HollyPsychology at Kings College London
Classes at Ashbourne work identically to my tutorials at university; the tutors are as approachable and knowledgeable as any of my lecturers; and the emphasis on private study to reinforce the day’s teaching is exactly what is expected when studying at a higher level. Ashbourne prepared me for all the academic challenges that university provides
ArikPhilosophy and Mathematics at University of Edinburgh
Honestly, I had the best two years of my life as an A level student at Ashbourne. While attending music classes at Royal College of Music Junior Department on Saturdays, the flexibility of the time-table each of us gets from Ashbourne gave me plenty of time to practise on violin/harp. Not only did Ashbourne prepare me extremely well for the A level exams, the music opportunities I was exposed to during my time here really helped to develop myself into a better musician. We had at least one music concert every term, plenty of opportunities to play in ensembles as well as having our compositions performed by professional musicians! Ashbourne really focuses on bringing out the individuality and independence of its students. I am currently studying Instrumental Performance at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, and am loving every second!
VerenaInstrumental Performance at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire
What I like about Ashbourne is that everyone is enveloped into the really close-knit family, regardless of race or background. The teaching goes beyond simply imparting skills and knowledge, but also extends to encouraging and inspiring students, which makes learning a lot more enjoyable. The amount of passion that everyone has and the amount of individual attention the college gives to every student creates a pleasant and stimulating environment. Ashbourne has exceeded my expectations in so many ways, and I have really enjoyed my time here in the college
Enn Nee PinkyArts and Sciences with a Year Abroad at UCL - University College London (University of London)
My time at Ashbourne was everything I hoped it would be and more. In the space of just two years my technical understanding and appreciation of music have rocketed higher than I ever thought possible. Thanks to Piers’ outstanding and engaging teaching, I’ve fallen in love with opera and have now, since leaving Ashbourne, written my own, incorporating all the musical devices and tricks we learned about in lesson. So thanks to Ashbourne, I now have the confidence and knowledge to not only apply to my own shows but to the musical developing company called ‘Wishful Thinking’ I now work with as a creative development assistant. I cannot recommend Ashbourne enough for anyone with a drive and a passion to succeed. You will thrive.
CharlotteWishful Thinking Company, Creative Development Assistant
Choosing to study at Ashbourne College is one of the best decisions that I have made. All the academic tutors gave me a lot of assistance when I prepared for the exams and interviews, especially the Director of Studies, John Wilson and Principal, Mike Kirby, who pushed me a lot when I prepared for the Cambridge University interview
ZhuoyuEngineering at Cambridge University
During my three-year ride as an Asher, new doors opened up for me to a new world in which I found my true passion. It is encouraging independent learning while providing students with sufficient support when needed, along with its active, lively and friendly atmosphere that give Ashbourne its uniqueness. The location is great and adds to the liveliness of the atmosphere. As far as academia is concerned, the necessary platform for success in most subject areas one might be interested in is provided. The rest is up to the individual
KerryFrench and Management with a Year Abroad at Kings College London
My whole time at Ashbourne College was a great experience! I loved the relationship between the students and staff including teachers, how you could approach anyone and be sure you’ll get any help you needed. I loved the Euro trips, the yearly Christmas revue and the friends I made! :) And, they also helped me get into LSE! I miss Ashbourne!
MimiActuarial Science at LSE - London School of Economics and Political Science (University of London)
Ashbourne has provided me with the platform, the time and the space to grow intellectually. We are encouraged to read widely and since Ashbourne offers extra curricular critical theory, I have found my subjects being independently stimulated and motivated by cross disciplinary links. Aside from academic growth, Ashbourne has offered me a chance to feel a part of something. The opportunity to be the co-editor of Ashbourne Identity, the college’s student magazine, has given me a sense of responsibility, creative freedom and pride toward Ashbourne’s diversity. From Ashbourne’s Christmas Revue to its annual European trip, the college’s nurturing and collaborative atmosphere will remain a highlight of my time at Ashbourne
VictoriaEnglish and Drama at University of Manchester
Studying at Ashbourne helped me to explore new horizons in art and discover the diverse culture of London. Two years of A-level program have provided me with a knowledge of various Textiles and Fine Art techniques which I hope would be taken further within my specialist area at the university. History of Art helped to develop analytical skills which are absolutely necessary in order to formulate my aesthetic. Now I hope to find my own way within the broad Fashion industry
LidiiaArt and Design (Foundation) at Central St Martins
Our daughter has surely improved her knowledge in the chosen subjects but also her ability in dealing with her everyday life
Positive, encouraging environment focuses on what will help Theo rather than what he hasn’t done
Has been given the opportunity to study in a focused and mature way and has thrived in that environment
Gained responsibility and independence and has a mature approach to their studies
Treated with kindness and respect whilst being taught to grow as an individual personally and academically
My child has benefited from the amazing opportunities Ashbourne offers. He is respected as an individual and his education has been tailored to suit him. He has had brilliant tutors and the small class sizes ensures he is receiving personalised support in all his classes
She feels well respected as a pupil and gets the assistance she needs to understand the material
Our grandson was very ready to make a huge step from recluse, out of step with his age group, not knowing what to do with himself or how to relate to others, many of whom he found terrifying. He found travelling on the tube terrifying and trusted few people. Ashbourne has never pushed him too hard but has always encouraged every step he has taken towards what was sometimes a big risk for him. He has learned to respect himself as a learner, to be realistic about his strengths and what he finds difficult, and is learning what to do about the things he finds difficult. He is becoming sociable, well informed good company, smiles 100% more than he did and travels to and from Ashbourne by tube without a qualm. He is punctual (or sends a message if held up). He is learning to trust the many good people he now recognises as on his side. He is very aware of how much Ashbourne has contributed to these huge changes and is looking forward to trying out University in September, becoming a student, knowing lots of other people will arrive by different routes. A real success story/work in progress. Thank you Ashbourne
Academic excellence in a relaxed atmosphere! Small classes means that the teachers are able to give the students the dedicated attention that they need not only to succeed but also to understand the material taught.This is a nurturing institution that equips students with all the tools they need in future. I would certainly recommend this school to anyone – but saying this I do not want Ashbourne to lose the close knit family relationship that my daughter enjoys with faculty staff, teachers and students. So I want this to remain as a closely guarded secret!!
Ashbourne is a wonderful place to teach and an even better place to study. The staff treat the students as adults and the mutual respect results in a relaxed university approach to study. Teaching classes that only have a max of 10 allows for individual tuition and greater differentiation within the groups helping the students grow in confidence and develop a love for their subjects. I really like the fact that students are encouraged to refer to their tutors by their first name and feel that this breaks down tutor/student boundaries and means that the students are confident in asking for help. Brilliant students, brilliant tutors, great place to work
Rachel TeasdaleFormer Head of GCSE and Biology Teacher
Since starting work at Ashbourne in September, I was impressed by the amazing sense of community. The students’ combat differences in culture, age and circumstance to form fantastic relationships, and are strongly aided in the support and friendship from teaching and admin staff. Students are always given the attention they deserve, and these factors create a unique atmosphere for successful learning.
Hannah MartinFormer College Administrator and Welfare Officer
Your experience at Ashbourne will most certainly be informative, but its zenith is educational. To be informed is to be empowered, but to be educated is to be enlightened
Dr Barry RhuleMathematics and Physics Tutor
I have had a very valuable experience working at Ashbourne. I feel lucky that I got such a great opportunity to deal with different kinds of jobs which include; document preparations, helping at some organised opening evenings or dealing with students’ enquiries. Having a chance to deal with these tasks I feel that I have already gained a lot of valuable improvements in the skills which are needed in a college administrative working environment. The Ashbourne staff are very friendly and helpful. They never hesitated to give me advice on the jobs I was doing and what I should and should not do. I can not thank them enough for such great help and experience during all those times I was working at Ashbourne
Kim Anh TranFormer Part-Time Administrative Assistant
I see Ashbourne as a place which I feel comfortable to express myself and it creates an environment that encourages me to develop as a leader. I am constantly looking for ways to improve. I am determined to continue to develop myself and I know that this is made more attainable with Ashbourne’s fantastic support and encouragement. I am very lucky to find myself at Ashbourne. It is a truly remarkable place to work.
Dennis FulcherHead of Multi-Media and Social Science Faculty
If I had to describe Ashbourne in three words it would be welcoming, intimate, and fun. I have never met such an eclectic group of people who all get on and are integrated with each other so well. It’s a great opportunity to get the grades that you want alongside gaining confidence and maturity
Emily BoothroydFormer Administrative and Behavioural Assistant and PA to the Director of Studies
- One of the best A level colleges in London
- Strong exam results – 2019 47% A* A
- 54% of graduates at Russell Group Universities
