Level 2 Programme
Equivalent
3 GCSE equivalent
The one-year Level 2 Programme is designed for students who are eager to continue their education but do not yet meet the entry requirements for a Level 3 course. This supportive and engaging programme acts as a stepping stone, helping learners build the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to progress to a Level 3 qualification.
Students on the Level 2 Programme study in one of three subject areas — Business, Public Services, or Creative Media Production and Technology— and will be guided to develop both academic and employability skills that prepare them for further study or future career opportunities.
Places on Level 2 courses are limited, and priority is given to learners from partner Catholic schools.
Applicants apply for the overall Level 2 Programme and can indicate their preferred subject area during the application process.
Level 2 Creative Media Production and Technology
The course consists of 8 units. The course will provide learners with an introduction to both the creative and technical aspects of creative media production. It will target students who enjoy and learn through practical activities and have had difficulty with prior academic learning. Although written work will be involved, practical tasks and assessments will dominate.
Within the course learners will cover a wide variety of creative production skills, they will be involved in design projects and work towards a final personal project. The course will entail individual and group work to also develop learner’s interpersonal skills further.
Level 2 Public Services
The Level 2 Uniformed Public Services course is designed for learners who are considering a future career in the Police, Fire and Rescue Service, Prison Service or Army, Royal Navy, or RAF. Through a range of practical and classroom-based activities, learners will develop leadership, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills while gaining an understanding of how the uniformed services operate.
The course is assessed through coursework and portfolio work, providing opportunities to apply learning to realistic scenarios. It offers an excellent pathway to many Level 3 courses, and helps learners build the confidence, discipline, and resilience that employers across the public services sector value.
Level 2 Business
The Level 2 Business course is a practical, work-related qualification designed for learners interested in developing their understanding of how businesses operate in the real world. It is equivalent to four GCSEs (grades A–C) and provides a strong foundation for further study or entry-level employment in business-related fields.
Learners will explore key topics such as marketing, finance, customer service, enterprise, and teamwork. The course focuses on applying business concepts to real-life situations through projects, assignments, and some externally assessed exams.
Most units are assessed through coursework, allowing learners to demonstrate their skills and understanding throughout the year. In addition, there are two external exams — one in Finance and one in Marketing.
This course is ideal for learners who prefer continuous assessment and practical learning rather than traditional final exams.
