If I am unsure about which subjects or courses I would like to study, can I apply or should I wait?
Even if you are unsure about which subjects to study please complete an application form before the application deadline. At your interview, you will be given advice and guidance about which course is best for you and an opportunity to discuss your choices with a trained advisor.
Can I sit a vocational qualification with A Levels?
Yes. As part of our A Level programme we offer some options to mix vocational and A level subjects, you will find these subjects listed in the A Level courses list as ‘Extended Certificates’. On our A Level programme you can study ONE of these Extended Certificates alongside 2 A Level subjects.
Deciding whether to choose an A Levels programme or a full-time Vocational course can be difficult. You should consider whether you are stronger at exams or through a mixture of coursework, practical assessments, observations, and exams. You should discuss this at your admissions interview or call us on 0151 257 2022
When will my interview be?
Your interview will be held either in your school or at college after school. Most interviews are held between December and April. We will contact you within 2 weeks of your application to acknowledge receipt of your application. You will be contacted by post approximately 2 weeks before your college interview with your interview date and time.
If I make an application and then change my mind about the subject/course I want to study, what should I do?
If you change your mind about what you wish to study at college please attend your interview and tell your interviewer. You will be given the opportunity to discuss this and be interviewed for your new course.
What do I need to do if I am unable to attend my interview appointment?
Please call 0151 257 2022 or email courses@cronton.ac.uk to rearrange your interview.
What should I bring to the interview?
You should bring with you any supporting information such as your record of achievement or progress file and/or the grades you are predicted and have already achieved at GCSE.
What does the second stage interview involve?
If you have chosen to study Performing Arts, Creative Arts, or some STEM subjects, you are required to attend a second-stage interview.
For Science and Maths, this is a taster session with a multiple-choice test. For Performing Arts, this is an audition and for Creative Arts this is a portfolio event. These take place in March and you will be given more details at your interview.
Can I change the subjects I have chosen at interview?
Yes. If you wish to change a course immediately please call us on 0151 257 2022 or email courses@cronton.ac.uk.
You will be given an opportunity to sample your course(s) on New Student Day. Please use this experience to ensure your course is right for you. If after New Student Day you wish to discuss your course options further you may stay behind to talk to a member of the admissions team or contact us by phone or email. You may also change your course(s) at enrolment if you wish.
Can I go to University with a BTEC Vocational qualification?
Yes, a level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma, level 3 UAL Extended Diploma, or a T Level qualification is equivalent to 3 A levels and is attributed UCAS points in the same way. Achieving triple distinction star grades in your BTEC gives you the same UCAS points as 3 A* grades at A level.
What happens if I don’t get the GCSE results I need to go onto my chosen course?
You will be asked to bring your GCSE results into college at enrolment. If you do not meet the entry requirements for your chosen course you will be given an advice and guidance interview with a member of the admissions team. At this stage we will do our best to find you an alternative course that will lead you towards your chosen career or university course.
What should I do if I am on holiday during enrolment?
Your enrolment date will be sent to you in the post at the end of July. If you are unable to attend the enrolment date that has been given to you please call us on 0151 257 2022 so we can arrange an alternative.