Level 2 (GCSE Equivalent) Education & Early Years

This exciting new course is an opportunity to secure your future pathway to Level 3 qualifications in the supportive environment of Hive Sixth Form. This is intended to be the first year of a three year programme to include GCSE upgrades in Maths and / or English and additional GCSE level qualifications in Education and Early Years. Successful completion will lead to level 3 entry in the second year.

The Education & Early Years pathway is a 1 year Level 2 foundation course delivered at Hive Sixth Form. It is designed specifically for students who are close to direct Level 3 entry requirements, but just miss the 5 grade 4 entry criteria, and wish to build essential skills while strengthening their core qualifications. Students become full Hive Sixth Form students from Day 1, benefiting from dedicated teaching, high-quality IT facilities, and a structured, supportive bridge towards 3 year post 16 success.

Whilst we are waiting for a full specification for this course it will cover child development stages, early years care practices, educational frameworks, safeguarding concepts, and communication in learning environments.

Additionally, students will have opportunities to resit Maths and/or English Language for Summer examination as well as a personalised programme of support and aspiration to allow for successful level 3 studies into the following year.

The Pearson Level 2 Education & Early Years qualification is assessed through internal vocational coursework and portfolio assignments (TBC). GCSE English and GCSE Maths are assessed via external written examinations taken during the national resit exam series.

At least one GCSE at Grade 4, a majority of Grade 3s, and none below Grade 2.

Achieving 5 GCSE / Level 2 passes (including English & Maths) guarantees overall progression into Level 3 study at Hive Sixth Form. Direct Level 3 progression routes unlocked by this pathway include Business, Media, and Esports at Level 3 with future access to University. Note: Progression into specific Level 3 subjects remains subject to individual course entry criteria.