College vs Sixth Form - which is best for you?

1. GREATER INDEPENDANCE & MATURE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT – College offers a more relaxed environment, similar to university, with fewer formal rules and more responsibility for managing your studies. In addition, many of our students enjoy the smaller size of Rockley's college campus, along with the more personalised relationship they have with their teachers. Students feel they are treated more like an adult and they find this hugely motivating.

2. MORE CAREER FOCUSED OPTIONS – For individuals who are lucky enough to have an idea of the job they want to do, or the industry they want to be in, colleges can offer a wider range of vocational courses. Rockley's Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport (Outdoors) is the perfect choice for those considering a career in the sport, outdoors or marine industries, allowing you to focus on what you really want to achieve.

3. SPECIALIST FACILITIES – Many colleges have better equipment and resources for practical subjects. With a campus attached to a working watersports centre, and two further outdoor satellite centres, Rockley College has all the facilities and resources required to offer a high quality learning experience.

4. MORE DIVERSE SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT – Colleges attract students from different schools, helping you meet new people and expand your social network. This is particularly helpful for young people who want to get away from the norm. Many of our students have benefitted from going somewhere completely new – a new college, different surroundings, new friends and new teachers can be the perfect fresh start they need.

5. STRONGER FOCUS ON CAREER PREPARATION – Many colleges have strong links with employers and offer vocational training that directly prepares young adults for the job market. With so much scope for work experience and the opportunity to use the skills they have acquired throughout their course, as well as links to many industry governing bodies and affiliated companies, Rockley College is the ideal choice for those wanting to advance within the diverse outdoor industry.

6. FLEXIBLE LEARNING STYLES – If you prefer coursework over exams, colleges often provide qualifications that are assessed differently. With Rockley’s Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport being completely coursework-based, it works as a huge advantage for those who struggle in exam situations.

7. UNIVERSITY OR CAREER PREPARATION – For those wanting to continue their studies after college, Rockley's Level 3 Sport Diploma provides a great pathway to university and is highly valued by admission teams. Following the successful completion of Rockley’s college course, students can earn UCAS points equivalent to three A-Levels which can meet, or exceed the entry requirements for a wide range of university courses.

1. FAMILIAR ENVIRONMENT – For those who have enjoyed their GCSE years, remaining at a school setting with familiar teachers and classmates, can make the transition from GCSEs smoother.

2. SMALLER CLASS SIZES – Sixth forms often have smaller class sizes, leading to more one-on-one support from teachers.

3. MORE ACADEMIC FOCUS – Sixth forms are more structured and academic, with more of an exam-based focus. This is ideal for those who thrive in exam situations or those with a specific desire to go to university.

4. UNIVERSITY PREPARATION – For those who study A-levels, sixth forms usually provide strong UCAS support and subject depth.

5. FAMILIARITY – Teachers often have a good understanding of students’ strengths and weaknesses from previous years.

6. LESS DISRUPTION – Staying at the same school means no need to adjust to a new environment, which may reduce stress.