Helston Community College is a unique place and has something special to offer its students; it is a truly comprehensive College, offering quality education from vocational courses to A-levels. Our aim at Post 16 is to provide an excellent education and the skills to allow students to make the transition from College to the next stage of their lives. We are proud of our College and students for good reasons. The Sixth Form is among the largest in Cornwall, with approximately 250 students enrolled on courses recruiting from the College’s Year 11 and also from other secondary schools in the local area.

Courses

At Helston Community College Post 16 we strive to deliver high quality education and training to all our students irrespective of ability and background, so that all students maximise their potential and realise their goals. The aim of a Post 16 education is to prepare and provide students with the necessary qualifications, so that they can progress successfully on to the next stage of their career, whether in Higher Education, further training or employment. The college aspires to provide new opportunities to broaden minds and inspire so that students can develop as leaders and valued members of the community.

Duration of course

All A level courses are 2 years in duration.

A small number of students access a 3^rd year depending on need and individual circumstances.

Age range if applicable

Key Stage 5 – Ages 16 to 18

Key course content and outcomes
See Prospectus for the details of each course.

Post 16 Prospectus on website

Entry requirements

A Level: Students studying this qualification must have at least a grade 4 in both Maths and English and a further three GCSEs at a minimum grade 4, especially if students are planning to go on to higher education. Please see course guidelines in the prospectus for further information. (N.B. Some subjects require higher grades – for example, Science A levels require a grade 6 in the relevant subject plus a grade 6 in Mathematics).

Available qualifications

• Fine Art
• Biology
• Chemistry
• Drama and Theatre Studies
• English Language and Literature
• English Literature
• French
• Further Mathematics
• Geography
• Geology
• History
• Mathematics
• Media Studies
• Music
• Philosophy
• Photography
• Physics
• Sociology
• Spanish

Other academic qualifications

• Core Maths
• Extended Project Qualification

Students can combine any these courses with the Applied General offer (see below)

Likely progression

Higher education: diplomas, foundations degrees, bachelor degrees.

Higher apprenticeships and Degree apprenticeships.

Additional charges for families
e.g. swimming, pocket money for shopping

Any charges related to the curriculum will be a voluntary contribution. 

Optional expenses for families
e.g. non-essential trips

Most subjects include opportunities for students to undertake educational activities which are outside of the formal curriculum offered – e.g. local, national and international visits. Each educational activity will identify the cost of any payments requested from parents and expensive activities will include the opportunity for payments via instalments over time.

Timing across the week

Monday to Friday (full time).

College day starts at 8.45 and ends at 15.20.

Minimum number of learners to run course

Ideally a minimum of 5 students.