A-level Retakes at
Top London Private College

For international students aspiring to study at top UK universities, A Level retakes can be a powerful way to protect and elevate academic ambitions. At Ashbourne, retakes are not treated as a second attempt, but as a strategic pathway to elite university entry. Based in central London and recognised for outstanding academic progress, Ashbourne specialises in helping students realign their academic trajectory, strengthen results, and secure places at leading UK institutions. With expert teaching, focused intervention, and a deep understanding of university admissions, we help international students turn potential into competitive outcomes.

Ashbourne is recognised as one of London’s top-performing colleges for academic progress, with an average class size of just 10 students. For international retake students, this level of individual attention is critical. Small classes allow teachers to quickly identify gaps in understanding, tailor support precisely, and adapt teaching to different educational backgrounds. Through discussion-led lessons and close academic guidance, students build the depth of understanding required for A Level success, where analysis and application, rather than memorisation, are essential for top grades.

UK A Levels place heavy emphasis on exam technique and performance under timed conditions. At Ashbourne, all A Level retake students complete a full mock examination each half term, ensuring they become fully familiar with the UK assessment style. These regular exams help students refine technique, manage exam pressure, and identify weaknesses early. Detailed, personalised feedback after every mock allows revision to be highly strategic, turning mistakes into measurable grade improvement and building the confidence needed for final exams and university progression.

Ashbourne is located on High Street Kensington, one of London’s most prestigious, safe, and renowned areas in the capital. This central location places students minutes from the Royal Kensington Palace and Gardens, as well as world-famous museums, galleries, and leading universities that offer free public academic lectures. Studying in such a rich cultural and intellectual environment gives students frequent access to enrichment beyond the classroom, helping them develop maturity, curiosity, and global awareness. These experiences provide meaningful content for personal statements and interviews, strengthening university applications and preparing students for study at top global institutions.

At the heart of Ashbourne’s ethos is a commitment to nurturing students to achieve beyond what they once felt was possible for themselves. This applies not only to academic attainment, but also to vital areas outside the classroom, such as social confidence, independence, and the ability to recover from challenges.

Ashbourne’s team of tutors and senior management play a key role in helping students develop innovative ways to overcome obstacles that may previously have blocked their access to fully realising and enjoying their academic and personal potential. Over the years, we have witnessed extraordinary stories of transformation, with students exceeding their own expectations and reshaping how they view themselves and their future paths.

To begin an application, please contact our admissions team, who will advise on the documents required. Once received, we arrange an individual appointment for interview and admissions assessments. After reviewing all elements of the application, we aim to communicate outcomes within the following days.

If you are considering a January start, we encourage you to contact our admissions team as early as possible to discuss subject availability and next steps.

Getting involved in the many clubs, activities and events the College offers is a great way to make friends, discover new passions and develop skills.

The Ashbourne Revue and the European Trip are real highlights for many students (and staff). The Revue offers the chance to showcase talents from dance, music and theatre to fashion, poetry and martial arts.

There is also a great selection of clubs featuring the successful Ashbourne Allstars football team, Bollywood dancing and Creative Writing, just to mention a few.

Located on High Street Kensington, Ashbourne offers a truly inspiring learning environment in the heart of London. Students are within walking distance of world-class museums and leading universities that host free public academic lectures. Beautiful parks, iconic architecture, and an exceptional range of global cuisine surround the college, creating a vibrant and intellectually stimulating setting that naturally complements academic ambition and curiosity.

Ashbourne attracts a diverse range of students from all over the world, accounting for around 50 different nationalities, who are keen to take advantage of the wide selection of subjects on offer and the high level of individual attention.

This makes the College an exciting place to learn with students bringing a wealth of ideas, talents and culture.

We hope every student will develop a great affection for Ashbourne and form some wonderful friendships, as most of our students do.

Please complete the fields below and a member of our team will be in contact with you shortly.

1. What makes Ashbourne’s A-level courses stand out in London?
Our students consistently achieve outstanding results, with 52% A*A in 2024–2025 and a 10-year average of 51% A*A. We rank in the top 2.5% of UK schools for Value Added, showing how much students improve from GCSE to A-level.

2. How many A-level subjects can students choose from?
Students can select from more than 25 A-level subjects, with flexible course lengths of one year, 18 months, or two years. This allows each student to create a pathway tailored to their ambitions and strengths.

3. What class sizes can students expect at Ashbourne?
Classes are typically fewer than 10 students, ensuring plenty of individual attention. This small-group teaching style allows for more engagement, feedback, and independent thinking.

4. How does Ashbourne support students outside the classroom?
Students benefit from weekly Personal Tutor meetings, subject-specific clinics, support classes, and peer mentoring. This extra support helps them stay on track academically and personally.