Choosing the right course can be exciting and challenging, with many subjects and qualifications available at different levels. Lewisham College offers a diverse selection of vocational courses, including BTECs, T Levels, ESOL, English, and maths programmes, as well as apprenticeships. The College is committed to helping you select the best course for your needs.
Are you exempt from studying English and maths?
Students must have achieved a grade 4 or higher to be exempt from studying English and/or maths. Lewisham College will adhere to these funding conditions; therefore, all new and progressing students who achieve a grade 4 or higher will not be required to continue studying English and maths GCSEs unless they wish to achieve a higher grade. Instead, they will follow an alternative vocationally relevant programme as part of their study programme. Please see the table below for information on levels and entry grades.
English and maths levels based on entry grades
| Grade on entry | Working towards |
| 4+ | Exempt from further GCSE Maths and English study |
| 3 | GCSE |
| 2 | Level 1 Functional Skills |
| 1 | Level 1 Functional Skills |
General entry requirements
Our courses are designed to cater to students at various levels of education, from Entry Level 3 to Level 3, providing a flexible and inclusive learning environment. They present a valuable alternative to traditional A-levels, allowing students who may not have achieved the desired grades to progress and excel in their education and future careers. Please see the table below for information on the levels we offer and the respective entry requirements.
| Level | Entry Requirements |
| Entry 3 |
To join this one-year programme you will need to demonstrate that you can reach Level 1 in English and maths by the end of the course. This will be assessed during the interview. You should be working at a minimum of Entry 3 Level. This programme focuses on enhancing your English and maths skills and preparing you for further vocational college-based learning. |
| Level 1 |
To join this one-year programme, you will need four GCSEs at grades 1 or 2 or an equivalent qualification, including English and maths. This course serves as your first step into college education, helping you secure a job or begin a traineeship upon successful completion. You will receive an additional support with your English and maths, making you more job-ready and allowing you to progress to a Level 2 course. |
| Level 2 |
You will need the equivalent of four GCSEs at grade 3 to join this one-year programme, including English and maths. This programme is designed to enhance your job prospects, apprenticeships or entry to Level 3 qualifications. Completing a Level 2 qualification can lead you to a skilled job or to progress to a Level 3 programme which will provide more career options and improve your future earning potential. It can also open doors to further studies, such as higher education or degree apprenticeships, leading to advanced or supervisory roles. |
| Level 3 |
To study at Level 3, you will need four GCSEs at grade 4 or above or equivalent, including English and maths. This two-year programme is designed to facilitate your transition toward advanced job opportunities, higher education or apprenticeships, provided you meet the entry requirements. A Level 3 qualification can significantly improve your future earning potential and career choices, allowing for further progression into higher education, apprenticeships and degree apprenticeships. |
| T Level |
To study for a T Level, you will need five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and maths. For a T Level in Health a grade 4 in Science GCSE is also required. T Levels are a Level 3, two-year programmes equivalent in size to three A Levels and designed to give students the skills they need for their future. T Levels are developed in collaboration with employers and education providers to ensure that the content of the courses meet industry needs and prepares students for skilled employment, apprenticeships, or further technical study. These courses combine practical and knowledge-based learning at college with an industry placement of at least 315 hours – approximately 45 days. |
Students with no qualifications on entry
UK students with no qualifications on entry because due to not being entered for public examinations, such as those ‘Home Educated’ or classified as a ‘Child Missing in Education’ (CME), will receive a diagnostic assessment to identify the most suitable study level for their success and progression.
ESOL courses
Many ESOL students, particularly unaccompanied asylum seekers may not have GCSE certificates.
Therefore, the primary focus will be to assess their English and maths skills during an interview. If an
ESOL student applies directly to a vocational course without proof of the necessary qualifications,
they must undergo assessment in both ESOL and maths to be eligible.
