The Sixth Form Advanced Level (A-Level) Pathway at Bedford is an option for boys who feel ready to specialise.
Most boys will study four subjects in the Lower Sixth year and then, after internal examination at the end of that year, continue with three of these subjects to A-Level or BTEC certification at the end of the Upper Sixth year. Some may elect to continue with four subjects. In addition, boys benefit from a Skills Programme to prepare them for university life, as well as the opportunity to complete an Independent Project on a topic beyond the confines of subject syllabuses.
Boys on the Advanced Level Pathway enjoy a wide range of sporting and service opportunities and attend a lecture programme with major speakers from outside the school.
The courses offered are indicated below, of which one must be chosen from each block (but remember that the number of subjects usually reduces to three in the Upper Sixth). The finalised Option Blocks are given to boys and parents in the spring term of the Fifth Form.
A-Level Pathway Options for entry in 2023
| Block A | Block B |
| Art Biology Business Economics French Geography History Latin Mathematics Mathematics & Further Mathematics | Biology Business Chemistry Drama & Theatre Studies Geography Mathematics Mathematics & Further Mathematics Music Politics Physics Religious Studies |
| Block C | Block D |
| Biology Business Chemistry Classical Civilisation Economics English Literature Geography History Media Studies Physics Spanish | Business Chemistry Computer Science Design Technology Economics English Literature Geography Media Studies Music Technology Physics Politics |
The Advanced Level Pathway also includes two BTEC Level 3 options. These will sit within the timetable blocking system above, allowing boys to choose either a pathway consisting of four A-Levels in their Lower Sixth, or one that includes either one or two BTECs alongside their A-Level choices. Read more about the BTECs here.
For full curriculum information on each subject, please refer to our Sixth Form Courses Guide below.
Sixth Form Courses Guide for Entry in 2024
Not every combination of subjects is possible, but we try to provide for all boys where possible. Whilst the school endeavours to meet the requests of all boys, this is subject to timetabling feasibility and sufficient numbers opting for subjects. We reserve the right to remove subjects subsequently from options blocks, and may request boys to alter their options subsequently, too.