Yr11 Guide 2026-2027

Year 11 Guide to John Leggott College: Courses, Applying and Student Life for September 2027

Thomas Lawson left John Leggott College this summer with A*A*A and a place to study Medicine at Newcastle University. Hollie Bancroft finished with a triple Distinction* and is now studying Musical Theatre at Bird College. Harry Stephenson took his A*AA into an apprenticeship at RNS Chartered Accountants. Three different routes, all starting from the same Year 11 question: what next?

This guide is for Year 11 students and their families choosing a sixth form for September 2027. It covers what you can study at JLC, how many courses to pick, what happens outside lessons, getting here and how to apply.

What can I study at John Leggott College from September 2027?

Almost any combination you like, across A Levels, vocational courses, the new V Levels and T Levels:

• A Levels: 3D Design, Accounting, Biology, Business, Chemistry, Computer Science, Drama, Economics, Electronics, English Language, English Literature, Fashion & Textiles, Film, Further Maths, Geography, Graphics, History, Law, Maths, Music, Physical Education, Physics, Politics, Psychology and Sociology.

• Vocational courses: Applied Law, Applied Science, Business, Creative Media Production, Criminology, Dance, Engineering, Games Design & Development, Health & Social Care, Music, Musical Theatre, Photography, Sport & Physical Activity and Uniformed Protective Services.

• V Levels: Education, and Digital Systems & Data.

• T Levels: Health, and Education & Early Years.

• Level 2: GCSE English Language and GCSE Maths, with further Level 2 courses to be confirmed at enrolment in 2027.

V Levels are new for 2027. Each one is 360 guided learning hours, the same size as an A Level, so they can sit alongside A Levels in the same timetable. Entry requirements are based on your average GCSE point score, and the details for each subject are on JLC's course pages and in the prospectus.

How many courses should I choose?

Most students choose three, which fits what universities ask for. Common combinations are:

• three A Levels

• three vocational subjects

• a mix of A Levels and vocational subjects, three in total

• one T Level, equivalent to three A Levels

• one Extended Diploma triple course, equivalent to three A Levels

• one Extended Certificate double course, equivalent to two A Levels, plus one more A Level or vocational subject

If you already know the career you want, work back from it and choose the courses that lead there. If you don't yet, start with the subjects you enjoy at school. JLC's careers advisors are at every open event, so you can talk your choices through before you apply.

Where do JLC students go after college?

Almost everywhere. 99% of JLC students move on to a positive destination, whether that's university, an apprenticeship or a job. 

84% of grades were A* to C or equivalent. 60% of students progressed to university, at more than 70 universities around the world. Recent leavers have gone on to Oxford, Cambridge, LSE, Imperial, UCL and other Russell Group universities. Others have taken competitive apprenticeships, like Harry's at RNS Chartered Accountants.

What do JLC students do outside lessons?

A lot. Every first-year student takes part in Upskill, a structured enrichment programme built into the timetable every Wednesday afternoon. Students are placed in an Upskill group linked to their study programme. They hear from guest speakers, work on projects set by industry, and take part in workshops with businesses and universities.

On top of that, enrichment is grouped into six pathways, so it's easy to find something that fits:

• Scholars: Aspire Oxbridge for students with a GCSE average of grade 7 or above, Maths Ascension, Olympiad preparation in physics, chemistry and biology, Debate Society and Model United Nations.

• Professional: Future Lawyers with LNAT preparation, Future Teachers, Future STEM Professionals, the Business Futures Academy, Coding Club and Women in STEM.

• Creative: choir, orchestra and jazz band, instrument and singing lessons, the JLC Podcast, short film production, the Musical Production Society and the JLC Steel esports team.

• Active & Athlete: Association of Colleges teams in basketball (JLC Wolves), men's and women's football, netball and rugby, plus badminton, hockey, volleyball and a running club.

• Leadership & Social Impact: the Sports Leadership Academy, Student Council, the International Buddy Programme, a sign language qualification and the LGBTQIA+ Society.

• Health & Wellbeing: chess, board games, knitting and crochet, Dungeons & Dragons and other low-key clubs.

JLC students also travel. Recent trips have gone to the Philippines, Italy, Malta, Dubai and New York.

How will I get to JLC?

By bus, car, bike or on foot. Students who live more than 3 miles from college can buy a bus pass at a discounted rate. There's a free student car park across the road from college and bike sheds on campus.

You can enter your postcode on the college's transport page to check your route.

How do I apply to John Leggott College?

Apply through your school or online through Cedar, JLC's student portal. The year runs like this:

1. Visit an open event with friends and family. The next ones are on Thursday 8 October 2026 (5pm to 8pm), Saturday 7 November 2026 (10am to 1pm) and Thursday 11 February 2027 (5pm to 8pm). You can book on the open events page.

2. Apply in school or online.

3. Interview. Everyone who applies is invited to an interview, in person or by phone, to talk about their interests and goals.

4. Sit your GCSEs in May and June.

5. Leggott Launch, a celebration at JLC once exams are over.

6. Results and enrolment in August.

Once you've enrolled, you'll get a welcome letter with your Cedar login. That's where you'll find your timetable, attendance, grades, exam dates and teacher feedback.

Frequently asked questions

Can I change my mind about courses after I apply?

Yes. You can review your study programme with JLC staff at any point before enrolment. Some courses have limited places, so it's best to ask early.

Is there financial help with college costs?

Yes. JLC's student services team offers a range of financial support so that money doesn't stop anyone studying. The details are on the college's financial support page.

Who supports students once they start?

Every student is supported by a progress tutor and specialist teaching staff. Student Services, the wellbeing team, learning support and the careers and progression team are also on hand, from the first meeting in school onwards.

Who do I contact about my application?

Email the admissions team at admissions@leggott.ac.uk to update or change any part of your application. General questions can go to info@leggott.ac.uk.