Preparation Pathway for University

The Preparation Pathway for University (formerly Combined Studies Programme) is a flexible, skills-focused college course that offers an alternative to the traditional A-Level or BTEC route and is designed to lead into a university degree or a degree with a foundation year at selected universities. The programme is modular and can be taken over one or two years.

It comprises two optional subject strands (each contributing 37. 5% of the overall score) plus a compulsory key skills strand (25%). Examinations are held in December, March and June with one re-sit opportunity in the June series, allowing students to build their score progressively.

The course emphasises academic and study skills - independent learning, academic writing, presentation, digital/ICT skills and confidence in assessment - alongside subject content. It is positioned as an alternative for students who may not thrive in the A-Level format and explicitly supports Year 12/13 students to progress to higher education.

Students also receive university application support, including guidance on choices, personal statements, applications and interviews. Recent students have progressed to courses at institutions such as King’s College London, Lancaster University, University of York and Keele University.