Top 10 Best Colleges in Adur

Post-16 Education for Adur Students

When students in Adur finish their GCSEs, they face an important choice about the next stage of their education. Fortunately, the district's position between Brighton and Worthing gives young people access to an impressive range of sixth form colleges, further education colleges and school sixth forms. Excellent bus and rail links make it easy to travel from Shoreham-by-Sea, Lancing, Southwick and Sompting to campuses across the coast.

Options include academic A level programmes, technical qualifications, vocational diplomas and apprenticeships. The best choice depends on each student's career goals, learning style and interests. This guide highlights ten of the most popular and respected colleges and sixth forms for Adur students.

How We Selected These Colleges

We considered course range, results and progression, inspection outcomes, facilities, student support, enrichment opportunities and accessibility from Adur.

The Top 10 Colleges for Adur Students

1. Greater Brighton Metropolitan College

GB Met offers a wide range of vocational, technical and professional courses across multiple campuses, including specialist provision linked to engineering and aviation near Shoreham Airport. It also offers apprenticeships and adult learning programmes.

2. Worthing College

Worthing College is a sixth form college offering A levels and vocational courses in a modern campus. It is known for strong student support and a friendly, inclusive atmosphere.

3. BHASVIC

Brighton Hove and Sussex Sixth Form College is one of the most successful sixth form colleges in the country, offering a broad A level curriculum and excellent progression to leading universities.

4. Varndean College

Varndean College in Brighton provides a wide range of A levels and vocational courses, with a strong reputation for creative subjects, sciences and student wellbeing.

5. Shoreham Academy Sixth Form

Shoreham Academy's sixth form gives local students the opportunity to continue their studies close to home, with a supportive environment and a range of academic and applied courses.

6. Lancing College Sixth Form

Lancing College's sixth form offers an outstanding independent education, with A levels, extensive co-curricular opportunities and excellent university guidance.

7. Steyning Grammar School Sixth Form

Located a short journey up the Adur Valley, Steyning Grammar School's sixth form offers a broad curriculum and strong academic results in a rural setting.

8. Chichester College

Chichester College provides an extensive range of vocational, technical and A level courses, with industry-standard facilities and strong employer links.

9. Plumpton College

Plumpton College specialises in land-based education, including agriculture, animal management, viticulture and environmental studies, making it ideal for students drawn to rural careers.

10. Cardinal Newman Catholic School Sixth Form

Cardinal Newman's large sixth form in Hove offers a wide range of A level and vocational courses within a supportive faith-based community.

Trends in Further Education

Further education is evolving to meet the needs of a changing economy. T levels are providing technical alternatives to A levels, with substantial industry placements. Colleges are investing in green skills, digital technology and engineering, while apprenticeships are growing as employers seek skilled talent. Mental health support and flexible learning options are also becoming central to the student experience.

Benefits of Choosing the Right College

The right college can unlock university places, apprenticeships and rewarding careers. Specialist facilities, expert teaching and industry partnerships help students develop practical skills and confidence, while enrichment activities build independence and broaden horizons.

Tips for Choosing a College

Attend open events to explore facilities and meet teaching staff. Compare course options, results and progression data, and consider travel time from Adur. Think about whether you prefer a large college environment or a smaller sixth form, and look at support services such as careers advice and learning support.

Supporting Students Through the Transition

The move from school to college can be a big step. The best colleges offer induction programmes, personal tutors, study skills support and wellbeing services to help students settle in. Parents can support the transition by attending open evenings, discussing course choices carefully and encouraging students to take part in enrichment activities that build friendships and confidence.

Local Insight: Travelling to College from Adur

Most Adur students travel to college by bus or train. The coastal rail line links Shoreham-by-Sea and Lancing with Worthing and Brighton in minutes, while frequent buses serve campuses across both cities. Many colleges offer bursaries and travel support for eligible students, which can make a significant difference to the cost of daily commuting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I choose a sixth form college or a school sixth form?

Sixth form colleges offer a wider choice of subjects and a more independent environment, while school sixth forms provide continuity and smaller class sizes.

What are T levels?

T levels are two-year technical qualifications equivalent to three A levels, combining classroom learning with a substantial industry placement.

Can I do an apprenticeship instead of college?

Yes. Apprenticeships combine paid work with training, and colleges such as GB Met support apprentices across many industries.

Conclusion

Students in Adur have an excellent choice of colleges and sixth forms, from high-performing sixth form colleges to specialist technical institutions. Explore the options carefully and choose the college that best matches your ambitions and learning style.