College
You will find a college environment very different to school; you’ll be able to wear your own clothes, be in charge of your own free time, and even call your tutors by their first names. It will feel more "grown up" and as long as you are respectful to those around you, you will be treated like an adult. College can work particularly well for students a little disillusioned with school - a fresh environment really helps with "stepping up" and being more responsible.
You will be expected to stick to a timetable and attend lessons (lectures), but you don't have to stay in college during your free periods. You’ll be given a lot of independence and expected to manage your own time. Everyone is different - would this way of working suit you? Think about that when you decide what kind of environment will inspire you.
College courses are offered at various levels. You should aim to complete a Level 3 course. Extended Level 3 BTECs and T Levels are equivalent to 3 A Levels and will allow you to pursue university, work or a higher/degree level apprenticeship. If practical, coursework-led study is your super strength, then college is for you.
Colleges tend to specialize more in vocational and practical courses and not all colleges offer A levels. They also have a much more varied body of students that can include full and part time students, day release students as well as school leavers and adults. There are a number of colleges around Solihull and Birmingham and you can find out more about them by looking at their websites:
