School leaver courses in Portsmouth
Leaving school and choosing your next step after Year 11 is a major milestone. At City of Portsmouth College (COPC), we offer a vibrant, supportive environment designed to help 16-18-year-olds move from secondary education to post-GCSE study. Whether you are aiming for university, a skilled trade or direct entry into the workforce, our range of A Levels, vocational qualifications, T Levels and apprenticeships will set you on the path to success.
Start college after GCSEs with City of Portsmouth College
Taking your next steps after leaving school at 16 is about finding an environment that matches your learning style, personal goals and ambitions. City of Portsmouth College brings together academic experience, technical expertise and real-world employer connections across Portsmouth.
Why choose COPC for your next step
At COPC, we treat you like an adult while providing the guidance and care you need to thrive
Diverse learning pathways: Choose from traditional A levels, hands-on vocational courses, industry-aligned T Levels or earn-as-you-learn apprenticeships.
State-of-the-art facilities: Train in industry-standard environments, from creative media suites and science labs to specialised construction workshops.
Dedicated support: access 1:1 tutoring, career advisors and student welfare teams every step of the way.
Strong employer connections: benefit from work placements, industry mentors and local employer networks tailored to Portsmouth school leavers.
Strong results and progression: City of Portsmouth College is dedicated to delivering high-quality post-16 education. Our students consistently progress to top UK universities, higher apprenticeships and rewarding professional careers across the Solent region and beyond.
Quick links for students and parents
What to do after GCSEs
Under UK government guidelines, young people must stay in educations or training until they turn 18. Leaving school at 18 doesn't mean staying in a classroom all day; it means aking control of your future.
After finishing your GCSEs, you hvae three primary routes to fulfil your post-16 education requirements:
- Full-time study at college or sixth form: Focus on academic study (A Levels) or practical qualifications (Vocational & T Levels)
- Apprenticeships or traineeships: Work alongside industry professionals, gain hands-on training, and earn a wage while studying towards a recognised qualification.
- Part-time education or training: Combine part-time study with employment or volunteering for 20 hours or more per week.
Applications for college courses open in the autumn term of Year 11. We encourage all prospective students to submit their applications between October and January. Applying early will help you secure a conditional offer and a place on your preffered course area before places fill up.
Your conditional offer is based on predicted GCSE results. On GCSE Results Day in August, our advisory team is on hand to guide you throguh enrolment:
- If you meet or exceed your predicted grades: Your place on your chosen course is confirmed.
- If your grades are different from expected: Don't panic! We offer courses from Level 1 up to Level 3. We will wokr with you to adjust your study route or explore alternative options, so you can still work towards your preffered career.
Find the right study route for you
Choosing the right study route after GCSEs depends on how you prefer to learn and what assessment methods suit your best.
Sixth Form and A Levels
A Levels are subject-focused academic qualifications delivered primarily through classroom lectures, research and end-of-year written exams.
- Duration: 2 Years
- Structure: Choose 3 complementary subjects (e.g., Mathematics, Physics and Computer Science).
- Best for: Students aiming for traditional university degrees, academic professions or those who enjoy subject-based theory.
Vocational & technical college courses
Vocational courses (such as BTECs and Diplomas) provide practical skills and knowledge focused on specific career sectors.
- Duration: 1 to 2 years.
- Structure: Continuous assessment through practical assignments, coursework, and real-world projects.
- Best for: Students who prefer coursework over final exams and want hands-on preparation for industries like Engineering, Business, Performing Arts or Health Care.
Apprenticeships for school leavers
An apprenticeship is a full-time job combined with accredited training.
- Duration: 1 to 5 Years.
- Structure: Spend approximately 80% of your time working with an employer and 20% studying with COPC.
- Best for: School leavers ready to step into the workplace, earn a wage and gain direct industry qualifications without paying tuition fees.
T Levels: A hands-on alternative to A Levels
T Levels are technical Level 3 qualifications co-designed with leading employers. 1 T Level is equivalent in UCAS points to 3 A Levels.
- Duration: 1 to 2 Years.
- Structure: 80% classroom/lab study combined with a mandatory 20% industry placement (at least 45 days) with a local business.
- Best for: Students wanting a balance of academic rigour and valuable real-world workplace experience.
Sixth Form vs College vs Apprenticeships
| Option | Primary Focus | Learning Environment | Assessment Method | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A Levels | Academic theory | Classroom & lab | Written examinations | UCAS points / university |
| Vocational | Technical skills | Specialist workshops | Coursework & projects | University / employment |
| T Levels | Practical & classroom | College + 45-day placement | Exams & industry project | University / skilled work |
| Apprenticeships | On-the-job training | Workplace + day release | End point assessment | Direct career progression |
Explore subjects and College courses
City of Portsmouth College offers one of the widest ranges or school leaver college courses in Portsmouth and the surrounding Solent region.
Subject areas for school leavers
Explore our extensive portfolio of post-GCSE subject areas:
- Art, Design & Creative Media
- Business, Economics & Marketing
- Computing, Digital & IT
- Construction & Building Services including Carpentry & Joinery, Bricklaying and Plumbing & Gas
Humanities and Social Sciences (History, Psychology, Sociology)
- Performing Arts & Music and Film & Media
- Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Applied Science)
- Sport and Uniformed Protective Services
Ready to explore specific modules and entry requirements? Browse our full catalogue on our main site.
Where you'll study: campuses and facilities
Our specialised campuses across Portsmouth are equipped with modern technology and practical environments that mirror real employment settings.
Sixth Form Campus
Located in the heart of Portsmouth, our Sixth Form Campus provides a vibrant, academic ecosystem tailored specifically for A Level students and higher-level technical pathways. Facilities include modern science laboratories, dedicated study hubs, creative media suites and comfortable student lounges.
Highbury Campus
Highbury Campus is renowned for vocational excellence, technical trades, and professional facilities. It features fully equipped automotive and engineering workshops, construction hubs, commercial hair and beauty salons, training kitchens and specialist childcare suites.
North Harbour Campus
North Harbour serves as a specialist centre for construction, building services, and trade apprenticeships. It offers expansive practical bays designed to teach brickwork, plastering, plumbing and electrical installation using professional tools and equipment.
Travel and getting to College
All COPC campuses are accessible via public transport across Portsmouth, Havant, Fareham, and Gosport.
- Bus routes: Direct bus connections run close to all campus locations.
- Train links: Nearby train stations provide simple rail access across Hampshire.
- Cycle & pedestrian pathways: Secure bicycle storage is provided on site.
- Travel support: Advice and financial bursaries for travel costs are available for eligible students.
College life, support and enrichment
College is more than just obtaining qualifications; it’s an opportunity to build confidence, make life-long friends and prepare for life after education.
- Freedom & responsibility: There are no school uniforms or rigid bells; you manage your independent study hours between timetabled classes.
- Adult atmosphere: Lecturers and staff treat you as an equal partner in your education.
- Focused environment: You spend your time studying subjects you are passionate about alongside like-minded peers.
We are committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and encouraging environment:
- Personal tutors: Regular 1-to-1 sessions to track academic progress and personal wellbeing.
- Learning support: Specialist assistance for students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) or specific learning adjustments.
- Financial support & bursaries: Support for travel costs, course materials, free college meals and childcare where applicable.
- Counselling & mental health: Dedicated welfare officers to offer confidential advice and emotional support.
- Students' Union & societies: Join sports teams, gaming clubs, debate societies or eco initiatives.
- Work experience: Every school leaver course incorporates guaranteed industry exposure or structured work placements.
- Trips & guest speakers: Gain insight from visiting industry leaders, university trips, and field visits.
Visit us at a School Leaver Open Event
The best way to decide if City of Portsmouth College is right for you is to experience our campuses in person.
Why Open Events matter
Attending an Open Evening gives you and your parents the opportunity to explore our facilities, speak with course tutors, meet current students and ask questions about entry criteria and support services.
Pre-registration and booking
To ensure a personalised experience and fast-track entry, booking is recommended for all Open Events. If bookings are not open yet, simply fill out our pre-registration form, and we’ll contact you as soon as you’re able to book.
What to expect on the day
- Guided tours of specialised classrooms, labs and workshops.
- Live practical demonstrations from current students.
- Presentations from Principal and Subject Heads.
How to apply for College after Year 11
Applying to City of Portsmouth College is quick, straightforward and completed online (unless you choose otherwise).
Step-by-step application journey
Review our website or prospectus to select your preferred subjects or vocational areas.
Complete our user-friendly online application form from any of our course pages. Alternatively, download an application form and email it, or print off an application form and send it in to us.
Meet with a course tutor to discuss your goals, entry requirements and ask any questions. You may also receive a verbal conditional offer at this point too!
Receive an official conditional offer letter based on predicted GCSE grades.
This is your opportunity to experience the College, get introduced to Flying Start, which is an initiative to kick-start your learning during summer, and to meet key members of the College team, before starting in September. And of course, to meet your fellow students!
Confirm your final GCSE results on results day and complete enrolment to start in September.
Entry requirements and elegibility
Entry requirements vary depending on the qualification level:
- Level 3 (A Levels, T Levels, Extended Diplomas): Generally require 5 GCSEs at grade 4 (C) or above, including English Language and Maths. Specific subjects (like Sciences or Maths) may require grade 6 or higher, but all of this information can be found on the course pages.
- Level 2 Qualifications: Typically require 4 GCSEs at grade 3 (D) or above.
- Level 1 Qualifications: Focus on potential and interest, without strict GCSE grade entry thresholds.
After you apply: interviews, offers and enrolment
Once your application is submitted, you will be able to login to our applicant portal. You can track your interview scheduling, view your offer details and receive updates on upcoming open events and enrolment steps.
FAQs for school leavers and parents
Common questions about routes and courses
A: In selected subject areas, mixed pathways are available allowing students to combine specific A Levels with Level 3 vocational qualifications. Speak to our advisors during your interview to discuss custom pathways.
A: College environments offer greater independence, broader subject choices (including practical trades and T Levels), and do not require school uniforms.
A: Standard A Level programmes involve studying 3 main subjects over 2 years.
Practical questions about campuses, support and events
A: Education at City of Portsmouth College is completely free for UK school leavers aged 16–18.
A: Yes. Means-tested bursary funds are available to help cover transport costs, course equipment, uniforms and meals for qualifying households.
A: Retaking GCSE English and Maths (or completing Functional Skills equivalents) is a mandatory part of your study programme if you have not yet achieved a grade 4. We provide expert support lessons to help you pass.
Why choose City of Portsmouth College
Strong results and progression
City of Portsmouth College is dedicated to delivering high-quality post-16 education. Our students consistently progress to top UK universities, higher apprenticeships and rewarding professional careers across the Solent region and beyond.
Employer links and real-world experience
We work directly with hundreds of local and national employers, ensuring our curriculum remains aligned with modern industry needs. Students gain real-world exposure through guest lectures, site visits, live projects and guaranteed work experience placements.
Local College for Portsmouth school leavers
As the primary further education provider in the city, COPC is deeply rooted in the Portsmouth community. We offer a friendly, diverse, and inclusive environment right on your doorstep.
Your next steps
Your future starts here. Take control of your education and open up new opportunities with City of Portsmouth College.
Have questions or need personal advice? Contact our Admissions Team today; we're here to help you every step of the way!
