SENIOR SCHOOL • YEARS 12-13 • AGES 16-18
A-level Programme
SENIOR SCHOOL (YEARS 12-13)
A-level Programme at Brighton College (Singapore)
Our A-level programme launches in August 2026, offering 20 A-level subjects in Singapore across Sciences, Mathematics, Humanities, Languages and the Arts. You will study in classes of no more than 15 pupils, taught by expert teachers from leading UK independent schools who combine academic excellence with a deep understanding of how pupils learn best.
This is education built on genuine subject mastery and intellectual curiosity. You will develop the habits of independent study that universities value and that will serve you throughout life, not just for the next examination.
Understanding A-levels
At Brighton College (Singapore), our pupils study a combination of Cambridge and Pearson Edexcel A-levels. A-levels offer depth over breadth, allowing you to focus on three or four subjects rather than spreading across six or seven. This specialisation matters for university preparation: medicine requires deep knowledge of Biology and Chemistry, engineering demands advanced Mathematics and Physics, while law values the analytical writing developed through History or English Literature.
The structure is straightforward. In Year 12, everyone starts by studying four subjects. By Year 13, some pupils may continue with 4 (or more) A-levels, but some may only continue with three. Assessment happens primarily through final examinations in May and June, though Art, Design and Technology, and Drama include coursework reflecting the nature of creative disciplines.
You choose your subjects based on your interests and strengths, as well as your university and career goals, if known. There are no compulsory combinations. Universities worldwide recognise and value both A-levels: from the UK, where they remain the preferred qualification, to the US, Singapore, Australia and Canada.
A Broad, Balanced and Purposeful Curriculum
A-levels prepare you for university-level study better than any other qualification. The depth of content, the independent inquiry required, and the rigorous assessment format mirror what you’ll encounter at the world’s leading universities. You’ll develop critical thinking, extended analytical writing, and genuine subject expertise – the foundations of intellectual confidence.
A-levels offer:
- Globally recognised by top universities and employers
- No compulsory subjects, personalised academic journeys
- Depth over breadth, ideal for those with clear interests or career goals
- Rigorous preparation for courses such as medicine, law, engineering, and humanities
- Encourages independence, enquiry, and intellectual stretch
Record Results 2025
Brighton College (Singapore) is very proud to share the exciting news of the exam success of Senior pupils at Brighton College in the UK.
98%
A*–B at A-level
98%
9/8/7 at GCSE
A* / 9
the most common grades
Beyond A-levels
Our Cambridge A-level programme is supported by our Brighton College (Singapore) Core Curriculum: Critical Thinking, Personal, Social, Health, Economic Education (PSHE), and Physical Education (PE).
Our Human Story is our Critical Thinking programme, taken by all Sixth Form pupils. Covering current affairs and cultural discussions, the course has been designed in order to develop skills which not only help with A-level exams and university entrance tests but also allow pupils to approach the world with confidence in their abilities to tackle complicated questions. The course has the explicit focus on key academic skills, problem-solving solving and presentation skills.
All Sixth Form pupils have the opportunity to take the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) run by Cambridge. This is a stand-alone qualification equivalent to an A-level. The EPQ allows pupils to conduct deep-dive research on a topic of their choosing. Pupils submit a 5000-word essay, deliver a presentation and field questions on their findings.
Universities welcome the EPQ as it demonstrates the ability to be organised and work independently, both attributes which are essential at university.
Expert Teaching
Our Sixth Form teachers are experienced subject specialists, many from leading UK independent schools. They combine academic excellence with a deep understanding of adolescent development, providing:
- Individualised guidance and mentoring
- Stretch and challenge tailored to pupil potential
- Ongoing, in-depth feedback and progress monitoring
- A culture of high expectations and mutual respect
- Class sizes are small, allowing every pupil to be known, supported, and encouraged to excel
How to Choose
Your A-level subjects
Choosing your A-level subjects is one of the most important academic decisions you will make. Start with your university course: medicine requires Biology and Chemistry, engineering needs Mathematics and Physics, while law values strong essay-based subjects like History or English Literature. Check specific requirements early.
Your IGCSE results reveal your natural strengths. Where did you achieve Grade 7/A or above? These subjects indicate where you’re likely to excel at A-level. To study any A-level, you need a minimum Grade 6/B in that IGCSE subject (Grade 7/A for Mathematics and Sciences).
Balance your choices thoughtfully. Three essay subjects mean intensive reading and writing; three sciences bring demanding practical work. Mixing assessment types – some subjects with coursework, others with final examinations only – helps manage workload across the year.
Our teachers provide comprehensive guidance throughout the selection process. We’ll discuss your university ambitions, review your academic profile, and help you build a combination that prepares you for success. Subject selection begins in Year 11, giving you time to explore options through taster sessions and individual counselling.
Begin Your A-level Journey
Your A-level journey starts here. Discover how Brighton College (Singapore) prepares you for the world’s leading universities – and for a life of intellectual curiosity beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many A-level subjects should I choose?
Begin with four subjects in Year 12. Continue with three in Year 13. Most pupils drop one subject after Year 12, allowing them to focus on their strongest areas for final examinations. You can also undertake the Extended Project Qualification in Year 13, which universities value highly and which earns additional UCAS points. Some pupils continue with four subjects through Year 13. This suits those aiming for very competitive courses or scholarships, though we recommend discussing this carefully with your teachers. Universities prefer three excellent grades to four good ones.
Can I change my subject choices after starting Year 12?
Yes, but only within the first four weeks of term. After that point, you’ll have missed foundational content that’s difficult to recover. We recommend thoughtful selection from the start, which is why our Year 11 subject counselling programme is so comprehensive.
Choosing well the first time means you can commit fully to your subjects without second-guessing your decision.
What if Brighton College doesn't offer my chosen subject?
We offer more than 20 A-level subjects* covering all major university pathways. Most pupils find everything they need.
If you’re interested in a subject we don’t offer, discuss alternatives with our Head of Sixth Form. We can often suggest equivalent pathways that universities recognise equally well.
*Subject to demand
Do universities prefer certain A-level subjects?
Competitive universities value what they call “facilitating subjects”, those considered most rigorous and which keep your options open.
Facilitating subjects include:
- Mathematics & Further Mathematics
- English Literature
- Physics, Chemistry, Biology
- Geography, History
- Modern Foreign Languages
These subjects develop skills universities prize: critical analysis, extended writing, mathematical reasoning, and scientific method. If you’re unsure about your university course, choose facilitating subjects.
Can I take four A-levels in Year 13?
Yes, if you are performing well across all four subjects. Most pupils take three A-levels in Year 13. This is standard for UK university applications. Taking four doesn’t significantly strengthen your application unless you’re aiming for scholarships or your intended course specifically values breadth.
Take four if you are achieving A grades consistently and can manage the workload without compromising your wellbeing. Don’t take four if it risks your final grades. Universities prefer three A* grades to four B grades.
What is a facilitating subject?
Facilitating subjects are those preferred by the Russell Group – the UK’s 24 most competitive universities. The list includes: Mathematics, Further Mathematics, English Literature, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Geography, History, and Modern Foreign Languages.
These subjects are considered academically rigorous and develop transferable skills that prepare you well for university study. They also keep your university options open – you can apply to most degree courses with these subjects.If you’re aiming for competitive universities, choose at least two facilitating subjects from this list.
How are A-levels assessed?
Most subjects rely entirely on final examinations in May and June of Year 13.
Pure examination subjects: Mathematics, all Sciences, Languages, English Literature, History, Geography, Politics, Economics
- Subjects with coursework or practical components:
- Art and Design: 60% coursework portfolio, 40% examination
- Design and Technology: 50% coursework project, 50% examination
- Drama and Theatre: 60% practical performance, 40% written examination
- Physical Education: 30% practical assessment, 70% written examinations
- Music: 60% composition and performance, 40% written examination
What support is available for A-level subject selection?
Our Year 11 guidance programme is comprehensive and personalised. You will experience subject taster sessions, actual A-level lessons that show you what each subject involves. You will have individual counselling with teachers who know your academic profile. We’ll help you research university pathways, understand entry requirements, and build timetables that work.
We also provide parent information evenings, sample examination papers, and opportunities to speak with current Sixth Form pupils about their choices.
Subject selection begins in the Spring Term of Year 11, giving you three months to explore, question, and decide thoughtfully. This is not a rushed decision. We want you to choose well.
