School Leavers

Choosing a Study Programme

Barnsley College has a huge range of study programmes available including Vocational,  Apprenticeships, A Levels, T Levels and Traineeships. Everyone is interviewed before being accepted on a programme to ensure it is the right course for you, your skills, abilities and future goals.

When you browse through our course information you will see details of our entry requirements showing what qualifications and experience you should have when you consider applying.

We have a set of standard entry requirements; however, the entry requirements shown on the course pages are dependant on individual needs, skills, experience and aspirations. Different subject areas require different skills and some of these will be investigated at interview. For example, for music or performing arts courses you will usually be required to also pass an audition.

Our entry requirements are guidelines so that you know what level of course you should be aiming at. In some cases and courses, our entry requirements can be waived at the college’s discretion to ensure you are on the right level of course for you and your ambitions.

We are committed to developing a personalised approach to your learning. This means your application will be fully considered to match your level of ability, skills and experience in your chosen area of study whilst taking into consideration your goals and ambitions.

You can look at all the courses we have on offer by searching the A – Z of courses

Advice and Guidance

If you are unsure about your options after Year 11 then you can speak to the college’s Information, Advice and Guidance Team. Every secondary school in Barnsley – and many across Wakefield, Sheffield and Rotherham – have a named advisor who works in college, but supports students from those schools. To contact your school’s liaison, visit our School and Colleges Liaison Team page.

English and maths

English and maths qualifications are a requirement for most jobs and it is important that you are able to demonstrate your ability in these areas. If you do not already have a grade 4 or above in GCSE English and maths you will automatically undertake further study in these subjects as part of your study programme.

If you are unsure about the course you want to apply for or if you have any concerns about the entry requirements please see our Information, Advice and Guidance page.

Raising Participation Age – what does it mean?

All young people in England are now required to continue in education or training until they are 18 years old. However, this does not mean you must stay in school. You can choose from:

• Full-time education (e.g. at a school or college)
• An apprenticeship or traineeship
• Part-time education or training combined with one of the following:
  • employment or self-employment for 20 hours or more a week
  • volunteering for 20 hours or more a week

Whatever option you choose, Barnsley College has the study programme, the advice and the support to help you achieve your goals.