KS5 Curriculum
At UTC Leeds, we offer a diverse range of pathways for our Sixth Form students, designed to cater to various interests and career aspirations. Our curriculum is tailored to provide both academic rigor and practical experience, preparing students for future success in their chosen fields.
Here’s a guide to the pathways available for our Sixth Form students:
T Level Qualifications: Overview
T Levels are a new qualification designed to provide students with a robust combination of classroom learning and industry experience. They are equivalent to three A Levels and are ideal for students who want to focus on a career-specific pathway.
Available T Levels
Engineering: Dive deep into the world of engineering with a curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on skills.
Science: Explore various scientific disciplines through a comprehensive program that integrates practical and theoretical learning.
Digital Technology: Prepare for the rapidly evolving tech industry with a focus on cutting-edge digital skills and knowledge.
Each T Level includes a substantial work experience component:
45 Hours of Work Experience: Students will gain invaluable experience working with an industry partner, providing real-world insights and enhancing their employability.
A Level and Vocational Qualifications
A Levels
For students who prefer a more traditional academic route, we offer a range of A Level qualifications:
Vocational Qualifications
Our vocational qualifications provide a practical approach to learning:
Engineering: Gain hands-on experience and knowledge in engineering disciplines, preparing for technical careers or further education.
Applied Science: Develop practical skills and theoretical knowledge in scientific fields, with an emphasis on real-world applications.
Choosing the Right Pathway
Selecting the right pathway is crucial for your future success. Here are some tips to help you make an informed choice:
Assess Your Interests and Career Goals: Consider what subjects and careers you are passionate about. T Levels are ideal for students who want to combine academic learning with significant industry experience.
Explore Course Content: Review the curriculum for both T Levels and A Level/Vocational qualifications to understand what topics will be covered and how they align with your goals.
Consider Work Experience: If gaining practical experience in a professional setting is important to you, T Levels offer a structured work placement that can enhance your resume and skills.
Students develop sought after employability skills..
The seven employability skills are central to the curriculum and the driving force behind all aspects of UTC Leeds. They were devised in conjunction with our employer and university partners, to ensure that students leaving UTC Leeds are highly employable. Through the unique opportunities that studying at the college provides, students will demonstrate a high level of confidence and skill in these areas, setting them apart from other candidatesWe enable students to develop the following key employability skills that are highly sought after by today’s leading employers:
Students build knowledge and understanding of industry through:
- Contributing to a series of industry-led ‘major projects’
- Visiting partner organisations to gain first-hand experience of the engineering world
- Partnering with the engineering faculty at the University of Leeds
- Working with mentors from industry and education
Students develop life skills, independence and knowledge through..
- Leading and taking part in enrichment activities
- Taking part in RE, PSHE, citizenship and personal development
- Receiving high quality careers education
Support and Guidance
At UTC Leeds, we provide comprehensive support to help you navigate your options and choose the pathway that best fits your ambitions:
Career guidance: Meet with our Careers Leader to discuss your interests and career goals.
Course Information Sessions: Attend sessions to learn more about the specifics of each qualification and pathway.
Personalised Advice: Receive tailored guidance to help you make the best decision for your future.
For more information about our Sixth Form pathways and to discuss your options, please contact:
Neil Copsey, Careers Leader
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 0113 353 0140
At UTC Leeds, we are committed to providing a supportive and enriching Sixth Form experience. Whether you choose a T Level qualification or a mix of A Level and vocational courses, we are here to help you achieve your goals and prepare for a successful future.
How do we meet the requirements of the 16 – 19 study programme?
All ESFA funded education for 16 to 19 year olds should be delivered as a study programme which combines qualifications and other activities, and which is tailored to each student’s prior attainment and career goals.
- Every study programme must have a core aim. For the majority of students, this will be either the study of substantial technical, applied or academic qualification(s) or preparation for employment
The UTC Leeds programme consists of a Level 3 programme. The Level 3 programme is composed mostly of academic qualifications and many students study facilitating subjects. There are a few applied courses on offer.
- Young people who do not hold a GCSE grade 4 in maths and/or English are required to continue these subjects as part of their study programme
In the UTC Leeds Sixth Form, all students who do not hold a grade 4 in maths and/or English are provided with time on their programme to retake these subjects.
- All study programmes should include work experience and non-qualification activities which complement the other elements of the programme and support the student to progress to further or higher education or to employment. The non-qualification activity should develop students’ character, skills, attitudes and confidence.
Students in our Sixth Form are expected to take part in a number of activities which provide them with opportunity to develop a range of skills, as well as explicitly teaching PSHE.
- Every student in Year 12 and Year 13 have a weekly Values lesson
- Students take part in drop down days, which provide opportunities to cover professional skills and personal develop
- All students receive careers guidance and future planning support.
Further information about the 16-19 Study Programme can be found on the gov.uk website, by clicking here.