| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
The college was founded in 1897 as a boys' school by William Peter Symonds in memory of his son.
It became a sixth-form college in 1974, providing education for students aged 16-19.
The main campus is situated in the historic city of Winchester, known for its rich cultural heritage, including the famous Winchester Cathedral.
The campus is modern, spacious, and well-equipped, featuring specialized facilities for different subjects, including science labs, music rooms, sports halls, and a performing arts center.
The college also has a separate campus for its Adult and Higher Education Division, located elsewhere in Winchester.
Courses Offered: Peter Symonds College provides a broad range of A-levels, BTEC qualifications, and GCSEs. Students can tailor their education with a combination of subjects suited to their interests and career aspirations.
The college is renowned for its high academic standards, with excellent exam results that often place it among the top-performing sixth-form colleges in the UK.
It also offers specialist support for Oxbridge and Russell Group university applications and runs a strong enrichment program for high-achieving students.
Peter Symonds College welcomes international students and offers accommodation in boarding houses.
It is one of the few sixth-form colleges in the UK that provides boarding facilities. There are dedicated staff to support international students with their academic and personal needs.
Extracurricular Activities: The college places a strong emphasis on extracurricular activities, offering over 100 enrichment options. Students can participate in sports, music, drama, debate, volunteering, and more.
Sports: The college has a strong sports program, with teams and clubs for football, rugby, netball, hockey, and more.
Arts and Music: There are opportunities for students to engage in creative pursuits such as performing arts, visual arts, and music. The college has a vibrant arts community.
The college fosters a friendly, inclusive atmosphere where students are encouraged to develop both academically and personally.
Peter Symonds College offers boarding for students at School House and Sunley House, accommodating students from the UK and abroad. This makes it a great choice for students who live further afield.
The boarding environment is supportive, with pastoral care and social activities to help students feel at home.
Peter Symonds College has an outstanding reputation for its high standards in teaching, excellent facilities, and supportive staff.
It consistently receives "Outstanding" ratings from Ofsted, highlighting its commitment to academic excellence and student welfare.
Peter Symonds College has educated several notable individuals, including:
Jack Dee (Comedian)
Chris Martin (Lead singer of Coldplay)
James Martin (Celebrity chef)
Jon Sopel (Journalist and broadcaster)
Students can apply online, usually starting in the autumn term of Year 11.
There are open days where prospective students can visit the college, meet staff and students, and explore the campus.
A-levels are the primary focus at Peter Symonds College, with over 40 subjects to choose from. Students typically select three or four A-levels, depending on their academic goals and future plans. The college is known for its strong teaching in all areas, including humanities, sciences, arts, and social sciences.
Here is a sample of A-level subjects offered:
Biology
Chemistry
Physics
Mathematics
Further Mathematics
Geology
Environmental Science
History
Geography
Politics
Philosophy
Sociology
Psychology
Law
Religious Studies
Art and Design
Photography
Drama and Theatre Studies
Music
Graphics and Textiles
Film Studies
Media Studies
French
Spanish
German
Italian
Japanese
Mandarin
Business Studies
Economics
Accounting
English Literature
English Language
Physical Education (PE)
Computer Science
Peter Symonds College offers several Level 3 vocational qualifications, which are equivalent to A-levels. These courses are designed for students who prefer a more practical, coursework-based approach to learning.
Popular BTEC and vocational courses include:
Applied Science
Health and Social Care
Sport and Exercise Science
Performing Arts
IT and Computing
Business
GCSE courses are offered to students who need to retake core subjects or achieve higher grades to progress onto A-levels or vocational courses.
Available GCSE subjects include:
English Language
Mathematics
Biology (and Combined Science)
Other options may be available depending on demand.
The EPQ is a research-based qualification offered alongside A-levels. Students independently research a topic of their choice, write a dissertation, or create a project. This program is particularly popular with students aiming for competitive universities, as it demonstrates independent learning and critical thinking.
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees (Per Year in USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Foundation Degree in Early Years |
2 years |
~$9,000 - $12,000 |
|
Foundation Degree in Teaching and Learning Support |
2 years |
~$9,000 - $12,000 |
|
Foundation Degree in Health and Social Care |
2 years |
~$9,000 - $12,000 |
|
Access to Higher Education (Various Fields: Nursing, Science, Humanities) |
1 year |
~$5,000 - $6,500 |
|
Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling |
2 years (part-time) |
~$3,500 - $5,000 per year |
Outstanding Academic Reputation:
The college is one of the top-performing sixth-form colleges in the UK, with excellent results in A-levels and other qualifications.
It has a strong track record of preparing students for admission to prestigious universities, including Oxford, Cambridge, and Russell Group universities.
Boarding Facilities:
Peter Symonds is one of the few UK sixth-form colleges that offers boarding accommodation, making it a great choice for international students.
The boarding facilities are safe, modern, and supportive, fostering a sense of community among students from diverse backgrounds.
Wide Range of Courses:
International students can choose from a broad selection of A-levels, BTEC courses, and enrichment opportunities to tailor their education to their interests and career goals.
Pastoral and Academic Support:
Dedicated staff provide guidance and support to international students, helping them settle in, improve their English (if needed), and adjust to life in the UK.
University Preparation:
The college offers excellent support for university applications, including help with personal statements, interview preparation, and entrance exams (e.g., UCAS, Oxbridge applications, or medical school requirements like the BMAT/UCAT).
Cultural Enrichment:
Winchester is a historic and picturesque city, providing a safe and enriching environment for students. International students have opportunities to explore British culture and participate in extracurricular activities.
A-Levels:
International students can choose from over 40 A-level subjects, depending on their academic interests and university aspirations.
English Language Support:
The college offers ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) support for students who need to improve their English skills alongside their academic studies.
Foundation Learning Programs:
For students who may not yet meet the entry requirements for A-levels, the college provides foundation learning programs to prepare them academically and personally.
Domestic and international students must decide which A-levels, BTECs, or other programs they wish to study.
Peter Symonds College offers over 40 A-level subjects and vocational courses such as BTECs and foundation programs.
Consider your academic strengths, career aspirations, and university goals when selecting your courses.
General Requirements:
For A-levels, students are typically required to have at least *five GCSEs at grades 4-9 (A-C)**, including English and Mathematics.
Some A-level courses have specific subject requirements (e.g., A-level Mathematics may require a grade 6 or above in GCSE Mathematics).
BTEC programs often require at least four GCSEs at grades 4-9, though this may vary.
International Students:
Academic qualifications equivalent to GCSEs are required.
Non-native English speakers may need to demonstrate English language proficiency (e.g., through IELTS or equivalent tests).
Additional documents such as transcripts, references, and personal statements may be needed.
Applications to Peter Symonds College can be completed online through the college website or via an approved agent (for international students).
The application form typically requires:
Personal information (e.g., name, address, contact details)
Course selection (list your preferred A-levels/BTECs)
Academic history (details of your GCSE results or equivalent qualifications)
Personal statement explaining your motivation for applying and academic/career goals.
Application Deadline:
Applications for domestic students usually open in September of the year before the intended start date and close around December or early January.
International students should apply as early as possible to allow time for visa processing.
After submitting an application, most applicants will be invited for an interview (domestic students typically attend in person, while international students may be interviewed online via video call).
The interview is an opportunity to:
Discuss your course choices.
Highlight your academic interests and career goals.
Ask any questions you may have about the college.
The interview helps ensure that your chosen courses align with your academic abilities and aspirations.
If your application and interview are successful, the college will issue either a:
Conditional Offer: Subject to meeting specific entry requirements (e.g., achieving certain grades in your GCSEs or equivalent qualifications).
Unconditional Offer: If you have already met the entry requirements.
Offers will outline the details of the courses, boarding (if applicable), and any additional conditions.
Once you have received your offer, you will need to confirm your place by the specified deadline. This involves:
Accepting the offer online or via email.
For international students, confirming boarding arrangements (if applicable) and submitting the required fees.
International students from outside the UK will need to apply for a Child Student Visa (Tier 4) or an equivalent visa.
The college will provide the necessary documentation, such as a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS), once the required fees have been paid.
Students should prepare the following for their visa application:
CAS letter (issued by Peter Symonds College).
Proof of finances (e.g., bank statements showing ability to cover tuition and living costs).
Academic transcripts.
English language proficiency test results (if applicable).
Passport and other identification documents.
Domestic Students:
Enrolment takes place after GCSE results are released in August. Students meet with tutors to confirm their course choices.
International Students:
Enrolment happens upon arrival at the college. The college provides an induction program to help international students settle in, understand the curriculum, and adjust to life in the UK.
Students may also receive additional English language support if required.
Main Intake:
September each year.
This is the start of the academic year and the primary intake for all courses, including A-levels, BTECs, and foundation programs.
Students typically apply in the autumn or early winter of the previous academic year (e.g., applications open in September and close by December/January for the following September start).
Key Admission Milestone |
Domestic Students |
International Students |
|---|---|---|
|
Applications Open |
September (Year before entry) |
September (Year before entry) |
|
Application Deadline |
December/Early January |
Apply as early as possible (to account for visa processing time) |
|
Interviews |
November to February |
Online/Virtual Interviews (if required) |
|
Offers Issued |
January to March |
January to March |
|
Enrolment |
Late August (After GCSE results) |
Late August/September (Upon arrival) |
The eligibility requirements at Peter Symonds College vary depending on whether you are a domestic or international student, the type of program you are applying for (A-levels, BTECs, or foundation courses), and your academic background.
The A-level program is the most popular course at Peter Symonds College. Below are the key criteria:
Age: Students must typically be aged 16-19.
Academic Qualifications:
A minimum of *5 GCSEs at grades 4-9 (A-C)**, including:
English Language
Mathematics (some courses may require a higher grade in Maths or other relevant subjects).
Some A-level subjects may have specific requirements. For example:
Mathematics: Grade 6 or above in GCSE Mathematics.
Science Subjects (Biology, Chemistry, Physics): Grade 6 or above in relevant GCSE sciences.
English Literature: Grade 6 or above in GCSE English.
Age: International students must also be 16-19 years old.
Academic Qualifications:
Equivalent qualifications to the UK GCSE system (from your home country) are required.
At least *5 subjects with grades equivalent to GCSE 4-9 (A-C)**.
Specific subjects (e.g., Mathematics or Science) may require higher grades depending on the chosen A-levels.
English Language Proficiency:
Non-native English speakers must demonstrate English proficiency through:
IELTS (International English Language Testing System) score of 5.5 or higher, or
An equivalent English qualification.
Students who need extra support with English can access ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) courses at the college.
BTEC programs at Peter Symonds College are vocational qualifications that are coursework-based and offer practical skills. These are ideal for students who prefer hands-on learning.
Age: Students must be 16-19 years old.
Academic Qualifications:
At least *4 GCSEs at grades 4-9 (A-C)**.
Some BTEC programs may have specific entry requirements based on the subject area (e.g., a science-related BTEC may require higher grades in Science or Mathematics).
Age: Must be 16-19 years old.
Academic Qualifications:
Equivalent qualifications to UK GCSEs, with at least *4 subjects at grades equivalent to 4-9 (A-C)**.
English Language Proficiency:
Similar to A-level requirements, an IELTS score of 5.5 or above (or equivalent) is needed for non-native speakers.
Scholarship/Support Program Name |
Eligibility |
Amount/Benefit |
Application Process |
|---|---|---|---|
|
16-19 Bursary Fund |
- Available to domestic students aged 16-19. |
Up to $1,200 per year (approx.) for eligible students. |
Apply directly to the college after enrolment. Supporting documents such as proof of income may be required. |
|
Residential Bursary Fund |
- For domestic and international students boarding at the college. |
Assistance with boarding fees (amount varies). |
Apply directly to the college; financial assessment required. |
|
Care Leavers and Vulnerable Students Bursary |
- For students in care, care leavers, or those receiving government benefits. |
Up to $1,200 per year. |
Apply through the 16-19 Bursary scheme after enrolment. |
|
International Student Financial Support |
- Limited financial assistance may be available to international students who meet certain criteria. |
Partial tuition or boarding fee support (amount ). |
Contact the international admissions office for details and to request an assessment. |
|
Music Scholarships (Enrichment Program) |
- Available to students with exceptional musical talent (domestic or international). |
Small grants to support lessons or equipment. |
Apply during or after enrolment through the music department. Auditions may be required. |
|
Sports Scholarships (Enrichment Program) |
- Offered to talented athletes (domestic or international) competing at a high level in their sport. |
Support with training or competition costs. |
Apply through the sports department; selection based on merit and achievements in the chosen sport. |
Facility |
Description |
|---|---|
|
Classrooms & Lecture Halls |
Modern and well-equipped classrooms and lecture halls for A-levels, BTECs, and other programs. |
|
Science Labs |
State-of-the-art labs for Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Environmental Science. |
|
Library and Resource Center |
A fully equipped library with textbooks, e-books, computers, and quiet study areas. |
|
IT Facilities |
Access to computer suites, Wi-Fi across campus, and digital learning resources. |
|
Performing Arts Centre |
A dedicated space for drama, dance, and music performances with practice rooms and performance studios. |
|
Sports Facilities |
Includes sports halls, a gym, outdoor pitches for football, rugby, and hockey, and a fitness suite. |
|
Cafeteria and Food Outlets |
Multiple food outlets offering meals, snacks, and drinks, catering to various dietary preferences. |
|
Student Support Services |
Dedicated pastoral care team, counseling services, and academic support staff. |
|
Health and Wellbeing |
On-site first-aid services and wellbeing programs to support students’ mental and physical health. |
Peter Symonds College offers boarding accommodation for students who live outside the local area, including domestic boarders and international students. There are two main boarding houses: School House and Sunley House.
Accommodation Feature |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Type of Rooms |
Single rooms (majority), twin shared rooms, and en-suite options available. |
|
Boarding Houses |
Two main houses: School House and Sunley House. |
|
Meals |
Full-board option with three meals a day provided in the dining hall. |
|
Shared Facilities |
Common rooms, kitchens, laundry facilities, and social spaces for all boarders. |
|
Wi-Fi |
Wi-Fi is available in all boarding houses for academic and recreational use. |
|
Safety and Security |
24/7 supervision by residential staff, CCTV, and secure entry systems. |
|
Pastoral Support |
Boarding staff provide personal and academic support to ensure students feel at home. |
|
Social Activities |
Organized events, trips, and activities to foster a community atmosphere among boarders. |
Aspect |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Flexible Curriculum |
Students can choose from over 40 A-level subjects and BTEC programs to tailor their studies to their interests and career goals. |
|
Small Class Sizes |
Classes are small, fostering personalized attention from teachers and encouraging active participation. |
|
Dedicated Support |
A personal tutor is assigned to every student to monitor progress, provide guidance, and assist with university or career planning. |
|
Oxbridge and Russell Group Preparation |
Specialist support is provided for competitive university applications, including mock interviews, entrance exam prep, and workshops. |
|
Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) |
An additional research-based qualification is available to help students develop independent learning skills. |
Peter Symonds College offers a wide range of enrichment activities, ensuring students have the opportunity to explore their interests, develop new skills, and make the most of their college experience.
Category |
Examples of Activities |
|---|---|
|
Clubs and Societies |
Debate Club, Coding Club, Photography Club, Creative Writing Group, Environment Society, STEM Club, Philosophy Society, and more. |
|
Sports |
Football, Rugby, Netball, Hockey, Basketball, Athletics, Badminton, Tennis, Table Tennis, and more. |
|
Performing Arts |
Drama productions, music ensembles, choir, orchestras, dance groups, and film-making workshops. |
|
Creative Arts |
Art workshops, design and textiles clubs, photography lessons, and opportunities to exhibit artwork. |
|
Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) |
Students can participate in the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme, a nationally recognized program for personal development, outdoor challenges, and volunteering. |
Aspect |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Student Societies |
A variety of student-led societies are available, reflecting a broad range of interests, from academic groups to recreational hobbies. |
|
Regular Events |
The college hosts events such as cultural fairs, charity fundraisers, themed days, and student talent showcases. |
|
Trips and Excursions |
Educational and recreational trips to local landmarks, museums, theater productions, and even international destinations. |
|
Freshers’ Events |
For new students, the college organizes induction events and social activities to help them settle in and make friends. |
Aspect |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Boarding Community |
Students from across the UK and around the world live in a vibrant and supportive boarding environment. |
|
Social Activities |
Boarders enjoy movie nights, games, themed dinners, and weekend trips to nearby cities or attractions. |
|
Facilities |
Comfortable accommodations, communal spaces for socializing, and access to college facilities outside of class hours. |
|
Pastoral Support |
Dedicated boarding staff provide round-the-clock care, ensuring students’ welfare and academic success. |
Peter Symonds College is known for its strong focus on student well-being, providing extensive support to help students thrive both academically and personally.
Support Service |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Personal Tutor System |
Each student is assigned a personal tutor who monitors their academic progress and provides personalized advice. |
|
Counseling Services |
A professional counseling team is available to help students manage stress, mental health challenges, or personal issues. |
|
Careers and UCAS Guidance |
The college offers extensive support for career planning and university applications, including personal statement workshops and mock interviews. |
|
Learning Support |
Additional academic support is available for students with special educational needs or those requiring extra help with their studies. |
|
International Student Support |
Dedicated staff assist international students with settling in, cultural adjustment, and academic challenges. |
Facility |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Library |
A fully equipped library with access to books, e-books, and online resources for research and study. |
|
IT Resources |
Computer suites, free Wi-Fi across campus, and access to online learning tools. |
|
Cafeterias and Food Outlets |
Multiple dining options with healthy, affordable meals catering to various dietary needs. |
|
Sports Facilities |
Outdoor pitches, a gym, a sports hall, and facilities for badminton, basketball, football, rugby, tennis, and more. |
|
Performing Arts Centre |
A modern venue for drama productions, concerts, and dance performances, equipped with practice rooms and studios. |
Peter Symonds College has an excellent reputation for preparing students for university education. Many students go on to attend prestigious universities in the UK and abroad, including:
Oxford and Cambridge: The college provides tailored support for students applying to Oxbridge, including interview preparation and entrance test practice.
Russell Group Universities: A significant number of students secure places at Russell Group institutions, which are among the most prestigious universities in the UK.
Specialist Courses: The college helps students applying to competitive programs like Medicine, Dentistry, Law, and Veterinary Science by offering mock interviews, personal statement workshops, and guidance for entrance exams (e.g., BMAT, UCAT, LNAT).
The college supports students who wish to pursue apprenticeships as an alternative to university. Apprenticeships provide hands-on training in a workplace while also allowing students to study for a related qualification. Support for students includes:
Career counseling to explore apprenticeship opportunities.
Assistance with applications and CV writing.
Information about local and national apprenticeship providers.
Peter Symonds College has a dedicated Careers Department that helps students explore their career options. Services include:
One-on-One Career Counseling: Personalized advice on career choices and progression pathways.
Workshops and Seminars: Regular sessions on topics like CV writing, interview preparation, and job application techniques.
Career Fairs: The college organizes events where students can meet employers and university representatives to explore opportunities in various industries.
While Peter Symonds College does not offer formal job placements, it encourages students to undertake work experience placements to gain practical insights into their chosen fields. These placements help students:
Develop valuable skills and experience to include in university applications or CVs.
Gain exposure to the professional environment in industries like healthcare, business, education, and more.
Build networks that may help with future employment opportunities.
For students enrolled in BTEC courses (e.g., Business, Health and Social Care, Sport), the college provides tailored support to ensure they are well-prepared for either higher education or direct entry into the workforce. Many BTEC programs include practical elements that prepare students for careers in specific industries.
The college boasts a strong track record of student success, with alumni excelling in diverse fields such as law, medicine, arts, business, and more. Notable alumni include:
Chris Martin (Coldplay): Musician and lead singer of Coldplay.
Jack Dee: Comedian.
Jon Sopel: Journalist and former BBC North America editor.
International students at Peter Symonds College receive specialized support to help them transition to their next steps, whether that’s higher education in the UK or in their home country, or preparing for employment opportunities.
While the college does not directly place students into jobs, its emphasis on academic success, work experience, and career preparation ensures that students leave Peter Symonds College well-equipped to pursue their goals, whether that's attending a top university, beginning an apprenticeship, or entering the workforce.
Domestic Students: Peter Symonds College is one of the largest sixth-form colleges in the UK, but it still has a limited number of places available each year.
Students from the local area of Winchester are prioritized, but many students from other parts of the UK apply as well, making it competitive.
The college typically receives more applications than it has places, which means not all applicants will be successful.
International Students: The college also welcomes international students, but boarding spaces are limited, making the competition for these places even higher.
The competitiveness of admission depends on factors such as:
Academic Performance: Applicants must meet the entry requirements, which generally include strong GCSE results (or equivalent qualifications for international students).
For A-levels: A minimum of 5 GCSEs at grades 4-9 (A-C)* is required, with some subjects needing grades 6-9 (B-A*).
For BTEC programs: At least 4 GCSEs at grades 4-9 are usually required.
Interview Performance: All applicants are interviewed as part of the admission process. The interview assesses their suitability for their chosen courses, academic goals, and overall motivation.
Catchment Area: Students living within the local catchment area are often given priority for admission. Those living further away (or international students) may have a slightly lower chance unless they meet specific criteria.
Course Availability: Some A-level or BTEC courses may have limited places, so admission can also depend on the popularity of the chosen subjects.
Boarding Availability: For boarding students (domestic and international), acceptance depends on the availability of rooms in the boarding houses, which are limited.
Although an exact acceptance rate is not published, it is estimated that:
For domestic day students, the acceptance rate could be around 60-70%, depending on the year and demand.
For boarders (domestic and international), the acceptance rate is likely lower, around 30-40%, due to the limited number of boarding spaces and high competition.
To increase the likelihood of being accepted:
Meet or Exceed Entry Requirements: Ensure you achieve the required GCSE grades or equivalent qualifications.
Apply Early: Submit your application as soon as possible within the application window (usually September to December for the following September start).
Prepare for the Interview: Be clear about your academic goals and why you want to study at Peter Symonds College.
Choose Courses Thoughtfully: Select subjects where you meet the entry criteria and align with your career aspirations.
Peter Symonds College
Owens Road,
Winchester,
Hampshire,
SO22 6RX,
United Kingdom.
