Years 12&13: BTEC & A-Levels
In the final two years at Nobel Algarve Lagoa, students move into Sixth Form, as Years 12&13 are known. The curriculum in Years 12-13 follows key stage 5 of the English National Curriculum; the AS and A-level programme, or BTEC Diploma Programmes.
What are A-Levels?
A-levels are subject-based qualifications taken by students following the English National Curriculum during the final two years of secondary education, between the ages of 16 and 18. They are a key stepping stone to university, higher education, apprenticeships, or entering the workforce. A-Levels offer students the opportunity to specialize in subjects they enjoy and excel in, while developing the critical thinking, analytical, and independent study skills that are essential for academic and professional success.
Nobel Algarve Lagoa offers a wide range of academic subjects for students to choose from. Typically, students pick two to four AS subjects in Year 12, and two to three A-Level subjects in Year 13. Students are supported in their choices by their class tutor and subject teachers.
Subject choices:
- Art & Design
- Biology
- Business
- Chemistry
- Design Technology
- Economics
- English Literature
- French
- Further Mathematics
- Geography
- History
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Portuguese
- Psychology
A-Level Results
The student journeys, from iGCSE to A-Level, illustrate the continuum of learning at Nobel Algarve British International School, Lagoa. They remind us that while examinations measure achievement, they also represent the growth, resilience and aspirations of young people preparing for their futures.
What is the BTEC Programme?
BTECs are high-quality, career-focused qualifications grounded in the real world of work. BTEC courses focus on skills-based learning and are designed around themed units. Rather than testing everything together at the end, BTECs are tested throughout the course using assessments based on real-life scenarios. This practical approach allows BTEC learners to develop and apply the knowledge and skills that employers and universities are looking for, and that means there are plenty of opportunities to learn, improve and succeed.
A BTEC is so much more than just a qualification – former BTEC students often say how they continue to apply what they learned on their BTEC course when they progress on to further studies, or starting a job, and as they advance throughout their career. BTECs are all about applying knowledge and skills in real-life scenarios to create career success and develop the employability skills modern businesses need.
BTEC Diploma in Sport, Business, and Management
In September 2026, we will welcome our first students into the new BTEC International Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport, Business, and Management, equivalent to three A-Levels. These qualifications carry UCAS tariff points.
Students studying the BTEC in Sport, Business, and Management, will gain real-world experience. The very nature of the programme encourages students to grow as learners and to think independently while learning the importance of collaboration and communication.
While many educational programmes around the world (A-Levels, IB, etc.) offer academic routes into higher education, BTEC offers both a pathway into university, as well as providing the skills that allow students to access the workforce upon completion. In addition to this, students can focus on one area of interest, as opposed to studying six academic subjects.
Why choose the BTEC Programme?
- 1. Equivalent to 3 A-levels
- 2. Coursework-Based Assessment
- 3. Applied, Real-World Learning
- 4. Development of Transferable Skills
- 5. Ideal for Pratical Learners
1. Equivalent to 3 A-levels
2. Coursework-Based Assessment
3. Applied, Real-World Learning
4. Development of Transferable Skills
5. Ideal for Pratical Learners
Welcome to Sixth Form at Nobel Algarve British International School Lagoa
Sixth Form at Nobel Algarve British International School offers a dynamic and supportive environment where students are encouraged to grow both academically and personally. This important phase marks the transition into independent, young adulthood, and we are committed to guiding each student through this journey with strong academic teaching and dedicated pastoral care.
A key strength of our Sixth Form is our small class sizes, which allow for a more personalised learning experience. With greater individual attention, students benefit from tailored support, timely feedback, and the opportunity to flourish in their chosen A Level subjects.
We are equally focused on preparing students for life beyond school. Our Sixth Form team offers expert guidance throughout the university application process, helping students identify and pursue pathways that reflect their strengths and ambitions. Whether aiming for institutions in the UK, Europe, the US, or elsewhere, our students regularly secure places at top universities around the world.
These two years are both challenging and rewarding – filled with academic achievement, personal growth, and exciting opportunities. We are proud to provide a Sixth Form experience that equips students with the confidence, skills, and resilience to succeed wherever their future takes them.
David Green,
Key Stage 5 and Universities Coordinator, Nobel Algarve Lagoa
