Course entry requirements

Sixth Form

Applying to shireland sixth form has just got easier

We’re excited to announce that all applications for September 2026 entry to Shireland Sixth Form will now be made through our new online admissions platform – Applicaa. 

Applicaa makes applying quicker and easier than ever – it’s simple to use, allows you to track your application in real time, sends you alerts from us about interviews and key dates, and keeps all your information in one secure place. 

How to apply: 

  1. Create your free Applicaa account 
  1. Complete your application form 
  1. Submit and track your progress 
  1. Check regularly for updates including interviews, open events and induction days

Applications for September 2026 are now open – apply today! 

Got questions about Applicaa or your application? Contact our Sixth Form team on 0121 558 8086, or email bbrogan@sca.shirelandcat.net or batwal@sca.shirelandcat.net.  

Course Entry Requirements for September 2026

Students are expected to achieve a minimum of Grade 5 or above at GCSE to be considered for A level and BTEC courses. Below are the minimum entry requirements for all Level 3 courses.

Subject Course GCSE Maths Level GCSE English Level Other Requirements
Applied Human Biology Vocational 4 4  
Applied Science Vocational 4 4 BTEC Applied Science: Merit or GCSE Science 5
Art & Design A level 4 5 4 in Art or Interview
Biology A level 6 5 6 in Biology
Business Studies Vocational 5 5  
Chemistry A level 6 5 6 in Chemistry
Computer Science A level 6 5  
Dance Vocational 4 4  
Drama Vocational 4 5  
English Literature A level 4 6  
English Language A level 4 5  
Further Maths A level 7 5 Grade 7 in Maths needed on higher tier paper
Geography A level 5 5  
German A level 5 5  
Health & Social Care Vocational 4 4  
History A level 4 6 GCSE History is not essential but if students have taken it, they should have a 6 or above.
ICT Vocational 5 5  
Mathematics A level 6 4  
Music Vocational 4 5  
Philosophy, Ethics and Religious Studies A level 4 6  
Photography A level 4 5  
Physics A level 6 5 6 in Physics
Politics A level 5 6  
Product Design A level 5 5 5 in Design and Technology
Psychology A level 5 6  
Psychology Vocational 4 5  
Sociology A level 4 6  
Spanish Vocational 5 5  
Sports Science Vocational 5 5  
Travel & Tourism Vocational 4 5  
Textiles A level 4 5 5 in Design and Technology or Interview

World languages

(e.g. Punjabi, Italian, Dutch, Polish, Mandarin, Urdu, Arabic, Portuguese, Russian)

A level 4 4 These courses are offered on a case-by-case basis and are studied independently. Applicants will be invited to an interview as part of the selection process, where they must demonstrate a strong ability in their chosen language. This could include discussing prior experience, qualifications, or showcasing practical language skills to ensure they are ready for independent study at Sixth Form.