Sixth Form Course Directory & Entry Requirements
Every student joins Harris Orpington Sixth Form with their own unique set of examination results and future goals.To accommodate this, we offer a choice of three pathways to ensure students receive an education that is personalised and right for them. Each pathway has a different set of entry requirements (see below).
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Course Directory
Please click on the image below to view the Course Directory to find out more about all the courses we offer in the Sixth Form.
Pathways to Your Future
Every student joins Harris Orpington Sixth Form with their own unique combination of examination results, strengths, interests and ambitions for the future. That is why we offer a choice of three pathways, enabling students to follow a programme of study that is personalised, ambitious and right for them. Each pathway has its own entry requirements and provides a clear route towards exciting future destinations, including university, higher and degree apprenticeships, professional training and employment.
A Level Pathway
Our A Level Pathway is designed for students who wish to specialise in academic subjects. Students select a combination of A Levels that reflects their strengths, interests and future ambitions. A Levels provide excellent preparation for higher education and can lead to a wide range of university courses, including highly competitive degree programmes. They can also provide a strong foundation for degree apprenticeships, professional training and employment. Students receive guidance when selecting their subjects to ensure that their choices support their future plans and keep appropriate progression routes open.
Mixed Pathway
Our Mixed Pathway allows students to combine A Level study with vocational qualifications, bringing together academic learning and practical, career-focused study. This flexible pathway is particularly valuable for students whose interests and future plans are best served by a combination of qualification types. Depending on the subjects selected, students can progress to university, higher or degree apprenticeships, professional training or employment. By combining different styles of learning and assessment, students can build a broad range of knowledge, skills and experiences that prepare them effectively for their chosen next steps.
Vocational Pathway
Our Vocational Pathway is designed for students who thrive through applied, career-focused learning. Vocational qualifications combine subject knowledge with the development of practical skills and are assessed through a combination of methods appropriate to the course. These qualifications provide clear progression routes into university, higher and degree apprenticeships, further professional study and employment. They are particularly well suited to students who have a strong interest in a particular subject or career area and want their sixth-form studies to connect closely with their future ambitions.
More Than a Course Choice
Choosing a pathway is not simply about selecting subjects for the next two years. It is about creating a route towards what comes next. Throughout their time at Harris Orpington Sixth Form, students are supported to explore their options, develop their aspirations and make informed decisions about their future. Through careers guidance, university and apprenticeship support, enrichment opportunities and preparation for applications and interviews, we help every student turn their chosen pathway into a successful destination.
Form Entry Requirements 2027
| Course Level | Requirements |
| 3 A Levels | A minimum of seven grade 5s in full course GCSE subjects. No vocational subjects allowed. |
| 4 A Levels | Must have a grade 8 average in GCSEs. |
| 3 A Level / Vocational Level 3 Combination
| Combination minimum of three grade 5s and two grade 4s at GCSE or merit or above in an equivalent subject related to course choices. Students must choose two vocational subjects and one A Level. For the A Level, students must have the minimum subject-specific requirements. |
| Vocational Level 3 subjects | A minimum of five grade 4s at GCSE or equivalent, with at least a Merit or grade 4 in a relevant equivalent qualification. |
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| A Levels require a grade 6 in a relevant GCSE subject. Extended writing A Level subject students will need at least a grade 5 in English Language. |
Subject Entry Requirements
Applicants applying to the Harris Orpington Sixth Form will attain the required entry-level standard. These are shown below.
Enrolment from the age of 17/18 is at the discretion of the site Principal who will take into account the student's most recent academic results. In most cases, students will only be accepted onto Vocational Level 3 courses unless there are exceptional circumstances.
| Subject | English Lang | Maths grade | Relevant subject | Other requirements/information |
| Art | 5 | - | At least a grade 6 at GCSE | Must bring a portfolio to course discussion meeting. |
| Biology | 5 | 6
| Must attain an overall grade 6 in Biology if doing separate sciences or a 6/6 in the Trilogy exam. Extended writing subject. | |
| Chemistry | 5 | 6 | Must attain an overall grade 6 in Chemistry if doing separate sciences or a 6/6 in the Trilogy exam. Extended writing subject. | |
| English Literature | 6 | - | Students will need a combination of at least grade 6 in English Language and English Literature | |
| Geography | 5 | 5 | At least a grade 6 at GCSE | Extended writing subject |
| History | 5 | - | At least a grade 6 at GCSE | Extended writing subject |
| Maths | - | 7 | At least a grade 7 at GCSE | - |
| Modern Foreign Languages | 5 | - | At least a grade 6 at GCSE | - |
| Physics | 5 | 7 | Must attain an overall grade 6 in Physics at GCSE if doing separate sciences or a 6/6 in the Trilogy exam. Extended writing subject. Students must also study A Level Maths | |
| Psychology | 5 | 5 | Not required but if taken, grade 6 at GCSE | Extended writing subject |
| Religious Studies | 5 | - | At least a grade 6 at GCSE | Extended writing subject |
| Sociology | 5 | 5 | Not required but if taken, grade 6 at GCSE | Extended writing subject. |
| Vocational Science | 5 | 5 | Must have a grade 5/5 for Trilogy Science (double award) or at least a Merit at Vocational Level 2 | |
