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From September 2026, we are introducing a new and innovative qualification pathway here at College - York College Mix.

These programmes are equivalent to one A Level and will allow students to combine two A Levels and one Vocational course, offering a more flexible and personalised learning experience tailored to career aspirations and academic goals. 

This flexible approach gives you the freedom to shape your education according to your ambitions. Whether you want to follow a traditional university route or pursue an industry-specific career, this pathway will equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge.

What is on Offer?

There will be a wide range of subjects to choose from, which could include:

  • Applied Science
  • Cyber Security & Networks
  • Early Childhood Development
  • Engineering
  • Enterprise & Innovation
  • Health & Social Care
  • Information Technology
  • Medical Science
  • Marketing
  • Policing & Criminal Justice
  • Sport, Exercise & Health
Two Computer Games Design students looking at a computer screen

Applied Science Mix

If you are curious about how science works in the real world and enjoy hands-on learning, then this course is for you. You will explore key areas of biology, chemistry, and physics in a practical, engaging way. From testing water quality to investigating energy transfer, you’ll carry out experiments, analyse results, and discover how science shapes our everyday lives. Topics include medical science, forensic testing, environmental impact, and scientific research methods which are all geared towards giving you skills that matter in the workplace or at university.
Whether you want to become a Lab Technician, Biomedical Scientist, or environmental specialist, this course opens doors to science degrees and career pathways in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and more. Combine it with A Levels and step confidently into a future full of discovery, innovation, and impact.

Cyber Security & Networks Mix

This course gives access to one of the most in-demand and fast-moving areas of technology, Cybersecurity and Networks. This course is perfect if you want to learn how to protect data, fight cybercrime, and keep the digital world secure. You will learn how networks are built and maintained, how hackers operate, and, most importantly, how to stop them. Dive into topics like ethical hacking, data encryption, firewalls, and risk management through hands-on exercises and real-world scenarios. You’ll also develop key IT skills and a deep understanding of how businesses and governments defend against threats.
Students can go on to study cybersecurity, digital forensics, or network engineering, as well as apprenticeships with tech firms, defence organisations, or financial institutions.

Early Childhood Development Mix

Do you love working with children and want to help them grow, learn, and thrive? This inspiring course is all about understanding how young children develop and how to support their early years. You’ll explore play-based learning, child psychology, safeguarding, and will plan educational activities that spark imagination and curiosity.
Through creative projects and practical learning, you’ll build the knowledge and skills needed for working in nurseries, schools, and early education settings. Whether you dream of becoming a
Primary Teacher, Nursery Practitioner, or Child Psychologist, this course opens up brilliant progression routes into university and the world of work. It’s the perfect choice for caring, creative individuals
who want to nurture the next generation.

Engineering Mix

If you are a problem-solver who loves understanding how things work, Engineering could be your launchpad into a high-tech, high-impact career. Covering core principles in mechanical, electrical, and electronic engineering, the course provides an applied route and allows you to develop both theoretical understanding and practical skills. You’ll study materials science, design and Computer Aided Design (CAD), systems control, and problem-solving through real-world engineering projects. The qualification places a strong emphasis on innovation, sustainability, and health and safety, mirroring industry standards.
Perfect for students with an analytical mindset and a hands-on approach, this course prepares you for university study or apprenticeships in Engineering, Manufacturing, or Design. Whether you’re interested in civil engineering, robotics, or product development, this course gives you a solid foundation with clear progression pathways as well as the practical and technical edge
employers love.

Enterprise & Innovation Mix

This course is all about turning ideas into reality. You will learn how to start and grow a business, develop a brand, manage finances, and pitch like a pro. Through creative projects, business simulations, and working with real-world challenges, you will gain the confidence and knowledge to become an entrepreneur or an innovation leader. You will explore key topics such as market research, financial planning, brand development, and the role of innovation in a competitive marketplace. Students work on real-world business challenges, pitch ideas, and develop enterprise projects, fostering creativity, resilience, and commercial awareness.
This course supports progression to business related higher education courses or degree apprenticeships and is ideal for those who enjoy problem-solving and want to shape the future
of business.

Health Mix

If you are passionate about helping people and making a real difference, then Health & Social Care is the perfect choice. You’ll study topics like human development, mental health, safeguarding, and communication, all through case studies, role-play, and real-world projects. You will learn how professionals support people through life’s challenges and gain practical insights into how the NHS and care systems operate.
This course is ideal for those interested in a career in Nursing, Midwifery, Social Work, or Therapy.
It also provides a strong foundation for degrees in health sciences and social care. Along the way,
you’ll build confidence, empathy, and skills that employers and universities are actively looking for. Whether you're aiming for higher education or a career in the care sector, this course will give you
the tools to start making a difference.

Information Technology Mix

Step into the world of digital systems, data, and cybersecurity with this exciting Information Technology course. You will gain a strong foundation in how IT systems work, their impact on organisations, and how to defend them against cyber threats. Learn how to respond to cyber-attacks, design secure solutions, and understand the risks facing modern information systems. You’ll also get creative with hands-on projects, developing fully functioning websites, and managing complex data using relational databases to meet real-world briefs.
This qualification is designed to be studied alongside A Levels such as Mathematics and Business and is ideal preparation for degrees in IT, computing, or digital business. It is perfect for students who want to progress to university courses and for those aiming for high-demand tech careers.

Medical Science Mix

Step into the world of diagnostics, disease, and cutting-edge healthcare with this Medical Science course. You will study the principles and real-world applications of medical science through three core units, while also diving deeper into specialist areas through an optional unit tailored to your interests. You will develop practical lab skills, analytical thinking, and investigative techniques that build on
your fundamental knowledge, essential for modern medical environments. Designed to complement A Levels such as Chemistry, Psychology, Physical Education, and Sociology, this qualification fits perfectly into a broader study programme.
Whether you're aiming for a career in biomedical science, healthcare, or research, Medical Science opens doors to a wide range of university degrees, apprenticeships, and healthcare professions.

Marketing Mix

If you’re creative, curious about customer behaviour, and love the idea of shaping brands and campaigns, this Marketing course is for you. You will explore the key principles of marketing, including market research, consumer psychology, digital marketing strategies, and brand management. Through practical projects and real-world case studies, you will learn how businesses attract and engage customers, develop effective advertising campaigns, and use social media to build strong brands.
This qualification is designed to complement creative A Level subjects such as Art or Textiles but also aligns well with subjects such as Business and English, providing a strong foundation for higher education courses in advertising, marketing, business, or communications. It also prepares you for exciting career pathways in marketing, public relations, digital media, and sales.

Policing & Criminal Justice Mix

Are you fascinated by crime investigation, justice, and keeping communities safe? This course allows you to explore the role of the police, how crime scenes are investigated, and how the legal system works, from first response right through to sentencing. During the course you will explore topics such as the role of police in society, crime scene investigation, the criminal justice process, and ethical decision-making. With a strong emphasis on practical skills, you will develop critical thinking, communication, and an understanding of real-life case studies. Using case studies, mock scenarios, and ethical debates, you’ll develop the skills needed in law enforcement, forensic science, youth justice, and legal careers.
This course is the ideal stepping stone to higher education courses in criminology, policing, or law,
or for direct entry into police training or public service apprenticeships.

Sport, Exercise & Health Mix

If you are fascinated by how the human body moves, performs, and stays healthy then the Sport, Exercise & Health course is your gateway to a future in fitness, healthcare, and performance science. This course combines physical activity with in-depth study of anatomy, physiology, exercise psychology, and nutrition. You will explore how to optimise athletic performance, promote active lifestyles, and support physical and mental well-being. Through hands-on fitness testing, programme design, and applied research, you’ll build the skills to work in both the sport and health sectors.
Whether you aim to become a Physiotherapist, Sports Therapist, Exercise Scientist, or Wellness Coach, this qualification offers a clear route on to university degrees or higher apprenticeships in sport and health sciences.

York College Mix courses are Alternative Academic Qualifications (AAQs)

AAQs are a new type of qualification created to help learners progress into higher education with confidence, clarity, and purpose.

AAQs offer a practical and future-focused learning experience across a wide range of career sectors. Students build the applied knowledge, skills, and personal qualities they need not only to succeed at university but also to thrive in today’s fast-changing world of work.

Why choose an AAQ?

A clear route to higher education - Designed with universities and educators, AAQs provide the right balance of academic depth and practical application. If your goal is university, this is the pathway for you.

Engaging, relevant, and future-ready - Learning is brought to life through real-world contexts and practical opportunities, ensuring students develop both specialist knowledge and transferable skills to navigate their future.

Fair and accessible assessment - With a holistic approach to assessment design, AAQs ensure that qualifications are both attainable and rigorous, building a solid foundation of knowledge and skills for progression.

Backed by universities - Over 100 universities have endorsed AAQs, recognising them as a strong route into higher education. AAQs attract the same amount of UCAS points as one A Level.
 

More detailed information about each York College Mix course will be available in early 2026.

In the meantime, year 11 students will have the opportunity to explore these exciting new courses during our January Taster Days.