Barston Blog

We have a wide variety of articles to inform, educate and amuse you as part of your learning journey! Whether you're starting your learning journey or at an advanced stage, we like to think that there's something of interest for everyone in our blog.

Latest Post

How to Take Better Notes at GCSE and A-Level

Taking notes is such a familiar part of studying that it is easy to assume we already know how to do it. You read a chapter, watch a lesson or work through some course material, writing down the important points as you go. By the end, several pages have…
Choosing a Course Careers Learning Science Miscellaneous Academic Confidence College News
3 Sep '24

Qualifying as a teacher: The transition from DET to DiT

You may be wondering why three letters could make all the difference. It's the difference between getting the latest qualification or no qualification at all. As of September 1st, 2024, the Diploma in Education & Training (DET) was replaced by the Diploma in Teaching (DiT). So, any students enrolling…

Three books that A-level Maths student should have

Having access to a range of A-level Maths textbooks and other resources is key for developing as wide an understanding of the course as possible. Different awarding bodies will have their own set of recommended textbooks and study guides, but here are some of our recommendations. Do…
2 Sep '24

10 Tips for Creating a Routine When You're Unemployed

Finding yourself out of work is a stressful situation that can affect anyone at any stage in life, regardless of your age or experience. It can feel like someone has swept the rug from under your feet, leaving you shaken. After the shock, it may feel like you’ve been…
30 Aug '24

The Complete Guide to Choosing GCSEs

Whether you dream of becoming a doctor, are passionate about working with animals, or have hopes of being a teacher, getting the right GCSEs is the first step. Deciding on the best combination of subjects is not a decision to rush, and it can be a…
30 Aug '24

Why is sustainability important and how is Barston College helping to support sustainability?   

Barston College are committed to contributing towards a more sustainable, healthier planet.

Retaking GCSEs as an adult

Considering a change in career is a decision that needs careful thought. There are a host of reasons why we might want to explore new paths, from a better salary to wanting to make a difference in the world. Regardless of the reason, taking or resitting GCSE courses…
29 Aug '24

Are A-levels harder than university?

Making the jump up to studying A-levels from GCSE is often said to be the hardest in education. But why is that the case? And what can you do to prepare yourself for the transition? Read on to find out! Quality and quantity More…
23 Aug '24

What are Functional Skills: Everything You Need to Know

Functional skills offer a shorter and more suitable way to meet entry requirements for many courses. Therefore they are a great way to gain the fundamental skills you need to succeed in vocational learning. In this blog post, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about functional…
Reading time: 4 minutes
25 Jul '24

Getting to university with an Access to Higher Education Diploma

Access to Higher Education (A2HE) Diplomas provide a transformative pathway to personal growth, career opportunities, and societal progress. However, there is a grey area surrounding whether universities will accept the courses as part of their entry requirements. In this article, we will highlight some of the forward-thinking…

A-level Changes: What you need to know

As of 2024, normal grading arrangements will continue for A-levels. The transition to pre-pandemic grading is now complete. However, over the past few years, both the structure and content of A-level courses have changed. Here is a quick guide to those A-level changes. If you can't find the information…
Reading time: 3 minutes
25 Jul '24

How to Stick to Your New Year's Resolutions

We’re exactly two weeks into January today, and with 2019 well in its stride, it’s around the time that New Year’s resolutions begin to break. As each year comes to its end, we promise to tackle habits, accomplish goals, and become better versions of ourselves, whether it’s dieting plans, saving…
Reading time: 8 minutes
25 Jul '24

Exam Results: What's next?

Well Done, Barston College A-level and GCSE Students! Across the UK, thousands of students will have received their A-level or GCSE results. We would like to congratulate everyone who took part in this year's exams! We have received literally hundreds of enquiries about the recent results from…
Reading time: 4 minutes
25 Jul '24

What is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)?

Over the past decade, the visibility of mental health has skyrocketed, with greater awareness than ever before. That’s great news for those who struggle with their mental well-being, as there are now dozens of treatments and therapies readily available – chief among which is CBT. CBT has emerged…
Reading time: 8 minutes
24 Jul '24

Distance Learning- An Outstanding Entry

Barston College was amongst the high-profile finalists for the 'Best use of blended learning' category at the Learning Technology Awards in London last week. The Learning Technologies Awards gala evening is a glittering black-tie celebration attracting guests from across the learning and development industry worldwide. The online college was…
Reading time: 2 minutes
24 Jul '24

Why a teaching assistant could be your perfect career

If a career in education is something you've been dreaming of and you're inspired to help the next generation fulfil their potential, a teaching assistant (or TA) could be perfect for you. Being a TA is often the natural first step towards becoming a teacher. But that…
24 Jul '24

Teaching Assistant Levels: What Do They Mean and How Do They Differ?

If you’re thinking of becoming a teaching assistant, you might be feeling a bit overwhelmed by all the technical terminology you’re encountering and the different levels of teaching assistant qualifications. How do you know which is right for you or where to begin? We get it,…

Five Reasons A-level Maths Matters

A-level maths can often divide opinion, read how it can help you in your professional life and how you can apply transferable skills in other areas.
24 Jun '24

Five Essential Books For A-level Biology Students

As an A-level Biology student, having a selection of reliable resources at your fingertips is important. Whether you're revising for exams or simply want to deepen your understanding of key biological concepts, the right books can make all the difference. Textbook suggestions for A-Level Biology It goes…

Three Books Every A-level Psychology Student Should Have

Three absolute must-have books for those studying or taking a passing interest in psychology.
17 Jun '24

What is CPD?

A comprehensive breakdown on what CPD is and how you can apply it to your professional life.
17 Jun '24

Our Founder Meets with ex-Prime Minister Theresa May 

Exciting times as Barston College founder and Managing Director meets the former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.

Top 5 Benefits of Online Learning in the Modern Tech-First World  

Discover why taking a step into the future of education could be perfect for you.
17 Jun '24

Nurturing Our Four-Legged Friends in Need 

Barston College go above and beyond to seek shelter for neglected, mistreated dogs.

A Comprehensive Break Down: GCSEs and IGCSEs 

Discover the key differences between GCSEs and IGCSEs.
Reading time: 4 minutes
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