How do you like to learn?
Everyone likes to learn in different ways. Some people are good with their hands and prefer practical courses while others are more academic.
The way you enjoy learning and the qualifications that you already have will have an influence on the type of course that you choose to study at Riverside College.
At Riverside College we have a wide range of vocational courses that can put you on course for the career of your choice. The table below will help you to decide what type and level of course is right for you.
Maths and English
As part of all of our courses, you will study maths and English as part of your programme.
If you do not achieve a grade 4 or above in GCSE maths and/or English in school, you will continue to study your GSCE or functional skills in maths and English alongside your course.
Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 Diploma
At Riverside College, you will start on a one-year, Level 1, or Level 2 full-time course at the relevant level, depending on the entry requirements and the qualifications you gained in school. Successful students may have the opportunity to progress onto a one-year Level 3 Diploma.
You will focus on one subject and will learn through a mix of practical and classroom theory in our industry-standard workshops, salons, kitchens, and modern classrooms. You will be assessed via project study, portfolio work, practical assessments, and exams. You can progress through the levels and then into your chosen career.
Level 3 Extended Diploma
A Level 3 Extended Diploma is a full-time course studied over two years and equivalent to 3 A Levels. This course will give you practical skills and specialist knowledge in your chosen subject to help you progress on to a degree, degree apprenticeship or into the workplace. During your course, you will also complete work experience and you will be assessed over the two years via project study, portfolio work, practical assessments, and exams.
T Levels
Technical Qualifications (T Levels) are a Level 3 full time course, studied over two years, and equivalent to 3 A Levels. You will spend 80% of the course in college, and the other 20% on a meaningful industry placement. T Levels have been designed by more than 250 leading businesses and employers to give you the knowledge and skills you need to progress on to a degree, degree apprenticeship or into the workplace following your course.
Apprenticeships
You will be in full-time paid employment and will learn on and off the job to develop your knowledge, skills and behaviours.
Off the Job learning will be a minimum of 6 hours a week and is often undertaken at the college on day release. You will achieve your apprenticeship by completing an independent End Point Assessment and most
apprenticeships are now graded from Pass to Distinction.
See Courses pages for more information about the individual courses