Top Banner Sixth Form

Academic

We believe that A Levels provide the most effective route for our pupils to study at the top universities in the country. Expert support from a dedicated team of staff eases the application process to university and the majority of our pupils are accepted by their first choice institution.

The academic curriculum is strengthened and broadened by a programme of lectures, off site excursions, links with Plymouth and Exeter Universities and the opportunity to study the Extended Project Qualification. The importance of independent learning is fundamental to teaching styles throughout the School. However, in the Sixth Form, increasing independence is encouraged and the pupils learn to work autonomously whilst enjoying the safety net provided by dedicated academic staff and unrivalled pastoral care.

Our Head of Sixth Form, Miss Callard is always available to advise and assist with career choices and global university applications and she is well supported by a team of dedicated Tutors.

 

A Level

A Level

The Mount Kelly philosophy is that we seek to achieve a balance between a genuine academic rigour for all pupils and an approach to learning which is accessible and appropriate to the interests and abilities of each pupil. Similarly, our aspiration is that pupils should feel that they can choose from a range of subjects to create a curriculum that is tailor-made for them.

Most pupils entering the Sixth Form will be expected to choose three A Level courses. These courses will all be taught over two years, with the examinations at the end of the Upper Sixth. Many pupils opt to take the Extended Project Qualification. Some pupils, particularly those choosing to study Mathematics with Further Mathematics, may take four full A Level courses. All pupils will also take Mount Kelly’s own ‘Beyond the Curriculum‘ course.

A Level Subjects

Visual and Arts
  • Art and Design: Fine Art
  • Art and Design: Photography
  • Design Technology: Product Design
  • Music
Humanities
  • Economics
  • Geography
  • Politics
  • History
  • Religious Studies
Sciences
  • Biology
  • Chemistry
  • Physics
  • Psychology
Mathematics
  • Mathematics
  • Further Mathematics
Languages
  • English Literature
  • Modern Foreign Languages: French
  • Modern Foreign Languages: Spanish
Sports
  • Physical Education

Other

  • Extended Project Curriculum (EPQ)
  • Personalised Learning
  • English as an Additional Language (EAL)

BTEC

BTEC

The BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma is equivalent in size to three A Levels and has been designed as a full two-year programme whilst the Extended Certificate is equivalent in size to one A level which can be studied alongside 2 other A levels.

Our courses include a range of assessment types and styles, varying across the various units but is 100% internally assessed so you have no final exams to worry about – it is a more relaxed classroom environment with ongoing assessment throughout the 2 years.

The courses which will suit anyone who doesn’t enjoy or perform well under the pressure of exams but is prepared to work hard and would like to stay in education for Sixth Form.

All pupils will also take Mount Kelly’s own ‘Beyond the Curriculum’ course.


74% of employers want new hires with practical knowledge and skills combined, 90% of BTEC students are employed full-time after graduating and 23% of students who went to university in 2018 had a BTEC.

  • BTECs are high quality, hands-on qualifications grounded in the real world of work.
  • BTECs are all about learning by doing and that means BTEC students put what they learn into practice straight away. Throughout the course, they work on a series of assignments set in real-life scenarios, developing the practical knowledge and skills employers and universities are looking for.
  • It’s so much more than just a certificate – BTEC-qualified students will keep applying what they learn on their BTEC course as they progress to university or a job – and throughout their future career.

Assessments

BTEC tests – called “assessments”– are based around real-life work contexts and scenarios, and can include:

-Assignments:

Assignments: Set and marked by the teacher or tutor, assignments involve a series of tasks designed around a work-related, real-life scenario.

They give students the chance to build knowledge and skills over time and deliver a complete, integrated project using a combination of knowledge, skills and behaviours.

Some BTECs are assessed completely through assignments, while the newer BTEC courses can include some units which are assessed through set tasks or tests.

You’ll get a grade for each unit – Pass, Merit or Distinction – so you can see how you’re progressing
throughout the course.

– Set tasks, performances or written tests:

For selected units in some of the newer BTEC courses, students also take practical assessments set and
marked by Pearson. These tests are either based around a real-life task completed in a specified time or
practically focused written tests.

Your final qualification grade will also be awarded on the Pass, Merit and Distinction scale, and your exact
grades will vary depending on the course.


BTEC Subjects

  • BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate in Applied Science
  • BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate in Sport Development & Coaching
  • BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport Development & Coaching
  • BTEC Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Performing Arts Practice

Business Studies

Business Studies

A Level Business Studies – Pearson Edexcel (9BS0)


The Pearson Edexcel A Level in Business is structured into four themes and consists of three externally examined papers. Pupils are introduced to business in Themes 1 and 2 through building knowledge of core business concepts and applying them to business contexts to develop a broad understanding of how businesses work. Breadth and depth of knowledge and understanding, with applications to a wider range of contexts and more complex business information, are developed in Themes 3 and 4, requiring students to take a more strategic view of business opportunities and issues. Pupils are encouraged to use an enquiring, critical and thoughtful approach to the study of business, to understand that business behaviour can be studied from a range of perspectives and to challenge assumptions.

 

Theme 1: Marketing and people
Theme 2: Managing business activities
Theme 3: Business decision and strategy
Theme 4: Global business

Art & Photography

Art & Photography

A Level Art and Design – EDEXCEL 9FA0

A Level Art Photography – EDEXCEL 9PY0


A Level Art and Design

Studying Art A Level will allow you to explore the work of a wide range of artists and designers as well as developing your ability to observe, to solve creative problems, to present your ideas and to manage creative projects. Conceptual thinking is encouraged and you will be challenged to discover the world around you from a new point of view and with fresh ideas. The most important qualities needed for an art based A Level are curiosity, a willingness to explore new ideas, the courage to take risks and a desire to be creative.

You will have opportunities to take part in residential fieldwork and gallery visits and to work with visiting artists and photographers. You will also have the opportunity to respond to ‘live’ briefs and take part in community based projects. You will be provided with your own personal working space, where you will be encouraged to work independently during your study periods, the evening opening sessions and Saturday open studio mornings.

You will work in a wide range of media including paint, textiles, clay and 3D materials, developing your skills in traditional drawing, experimental painting techniques and making methods. You will discover new ways of recording and expressing your ideas and personal views in exciting creative endeavours.


A Level Art Photography

This course provides an exciting, diverse and challenging range of experiences for pupils. The emphasis is on developing creative skills, and giving visual form to individual thoughts, feelings, observations and ideas. You will be challenged to take risks, make mistakes and be drawn out of your comfort zone. Conceptual thinking is encouraged and you will be challenged to discover the world around you from a new point of view and with fresh ideas. You will develop your ability to observe, to solve creative problems, to present your ideas and to manage creative projects.

You will learn about new media, photography, film, animation, digital manipulation and installation. You will work artistically, experimenting with the photograph surface, manipulating, collage and working in three dimensions. Through creative experiences you will learn how to critically analyse photography and film, you will be encouraged to evaluate your own progress, reviewing and refining your work as it progresses. The development of your practical work will be recorded in photographic journals. You will be provided with your own personal working space, where you will be encouraged to work independently during your study periods during the evening opening sessions and at Saturday open studio mornings. There will be opportunities for you to go on gallery visits, photo shoots outside of school and to work with practising artists and photographers. You will produce a contextual study in the form of an essay based on a Photographer of your choice, demonstrating your knowledge and understanding of their intentions, their work and the more complex issues involved.

Design Technology

Design Technology

A Level Design Technology Product Design – AQA 7552


Most pupils will already have studied Product Design as the A level course is designed to build upon knowledge and skills taught at GCSE.

Innovation and creativity are key elements of Product Design. You should be self-motivated to meet deadlines, inspirational and creative, and must enjoy working with materials, tools and machinery to make excellent ‘shop quality’ products. Your knowledge of wood, metals, plastics, composites, smart materials, paper and board, amongst many other topics, will grow and improve. The subject theory reflects the developments of constantly evolving science, technology and innovation in modern society today. You will learn about wider aspects of design in relation to ergonomics, sustainability, consumer safety, CAD/CAM and mass production processes, and how products that we make today impact on the environment. You will study design over the ages and evaluate the work of famous designers. You will develop an appreciation of design ‘form’ and ‘function’, through product

analysis exercises. During the two year course you will complete a number of practical skills based tasks in year one, building knowledge, confidence and experience, and then complete one major ‘design and make’ project in year two. The possibilities of potential design and make projects are specified by the exam board at the end of the first year of study. Subject theory is covered in both years of the course.

Economics

Economics

A Level Economics – EDEXCEL – Economics A 9EC0


Our aim is to encourage each pupil to nurture his or her business and enterprise skills, whilst appreciating the dynamic environment within which firms operate.

Economics relates to every aspect of our lives, from the decisions we make as individuals to the policies of firms and governments. The study of Economics enables you to develop a deeper understanding of the world around us that is as valuable as it is interesting.
Economics has been defined as the study of the allocation of scarce resources between competing claims and needs. The subject deals with a multitude of problems facing modern societies and governments.

You will start by exploring the nature of markets and their role in allocating resources in a modern economy. You will use the concepts of supply and demand to analyse markets. The central role of the government when markets fail is also investigated. Next, you will examine the performance of the UK economy. Here you will be introduced to how levels of macroeconomic activity are determined and also investigate key national and international economic indicators, policies and problems. Later, in year two you will focus on an understanding and analysis of the labour market and business structures. You will investigate the role of the government and examine key issues and policies affecting economic performance.

Finally, the performance of the national and global economy is studied which gives an overall context and framework for economic analysis in an integrated and globalised world. Key topics here include international trade, development, sustainability, the financial sector and globalisation.

English

English

A Level English Literature – (B) 7717


In this course you will be presented with an exciting range of texts and approach the reading and study of literature through the lens of genre and theory, for example by studying ‘Elements of Crime Fiction’ and ‘Aspects of Tragedy or Comedy’. The course encourages wider reading and the independent study of a range of texts, with the opportunity to follow your own interests for the coursework element.
The variety of assessment styles, such as passage-based questions, responding to unseen material, single text questions, multiple text questions, and open- and closed-book approaches, allows you to develop a wide range of skills, such as the ability to read critically, analyse, evaluate and undertake independent research, all of which are valuable for both further study and future employment.

Content

Component 1: Literary Genres
Aspects of tragedy |Aspects of comedy

Component 2: Texts and Genre
Elements of crime writing | Elements of political and social protest writing

Component 3: (Coursework) Theory and Independence
Study of two texts: one poetry and one prose text, chosen by you with your teachers’ guidance, and informed by study of the Critical Anthology

Current texts include:

King Lear
Tess of the D’Urbevilles
Ballad of Reading Gaol
Death of a Salesman
Brighton Rock

EPQ

EPQ

Extended (Level 3) Project qualification (EPQ)


This qualification is flexible and taps into your creativity and interests, giving you significant input into choice and design.

Your project can be submitted in any format appropriate to the topic. It may consist of an extended written report or essay, an investigation or piece of practical work, a performance, piece of creative work or any other form such as a model, creative piece of writing or multimedia presentation.

The Extended Project is a level 3 qualification and is available alongside the other A Level and BTEC courses you are taking as a standalone qualification. The project is undertaken over 2 terms and must be completed by the end of March. It is vital for you to adhere to deadlines in order to meet a submission date and to achieve success. The qualification involves 30 hours of taught skills and then pupils are expected to put in approximately 90 hours of independent work and research into their projects. All pupils are assigned a project supervisor who meets with them on a regular basis to discuss the planning and research process.

The potential benefits are enormous. Opportunities to get deeply involved in a subject that interests you, to develop research skills, to pull together different areas of other subjects you are studying and to exercise extended writing skills will all be valuable preparation for going to University. The extra UCAS points it attracts can make a difference to the success of your University application and will give you something you can discuss in detail on your Personal Statement and during interview.

Here are a few examples of recent EPQs:-

  • How has the historiography of Nazism changed.
  • Should the NHS treat ‘self-inflicted’ medical conditions?
  • Is there an antibiotic crisis?
  • How do readers interpret Harry Potter stories?

Course Outline

  • Conduct research into a topic of your choice.
  • Record what you do in a Production Log.
  • Produce an extended piece of work and give a presentation.
  • Assessment is on the Production Log, the project and the presentation.

Geography

Geography

A Level Geography – EDUQAS – A110QS


Studying Geography helps us to understand many of the issues we face in Britain and globally, such as how we might respond to the impact of climate change or be better prepared for natural hazards. It is the new research undertaken by geographers that is informing the debate about these challenges and helping us to navigate through the world’s geographically complex people, places and environments.
The course aims to develop an enthusiasm for and competence in geography by using contemporary real-world contexts. The specification draws on both physical and human geography, explores people – environment interactions, and encourages field work.

  1. Changing Landscapes and Changing Places
    • Glaciated Landscapes
    • Changing Places
  2. Global Systems and Global Governance
    • Water and Carbon Cycles
    • Processes and patterns of global migration and global governance of the Earth’s oceans
  3. Contemporary Themes in Geography
    • Four optional themes: Ecosystems, Economic Growth and Challenge: India or China or Development in an African Context, Energy Challenges and Dilemmas and Weather and Climate Two essay questions chosen from these four optional themes.

Politics

Politics

A Level Politics – EDEXCEL 9PL0


This course will help you to develop knowledge and understanding of the role politics plays in relation to current local, national, and global issues, as well as studying key thinkers and political ideas.

The study of UK politics and government forms the core of the course. This includes analysing the Westminster system at the heart of UK politics, considering broader aspects of democracy and participation in modern Britain, and developing an understanding of contemporary political debates.

Alongside this you will study the three core political ideas (Liberalism, Conservatism and Socialism) underlying contemporary politics and another ideology selected from a list of five. In the second year you will be able to contrast the UK political scene with a study of the politics of the USA.

Component 1:
UK Politics – Political Participation: democracy and participation, political parties, electoral systems, voting behaviour and the media.
Core Political Ideas: conservatism, liberalism, socialism.

Component 2:
UK – UK Government: the constitution, parliament, Prime Minister and executive, relationships between the branches.
Non-core political ideas: one idea from the following: anarchism, ecologism, feminism, multiculturalism, nationalism.

Component 3:
Comparative Politics: USA the US Constitution and federalism, US Congress, US presidency, US Supreme Court and civil rights, democracy and participation, comparative theories.

History

History

A Level History – AQA 7042


If you enjoy the study of the past both for its own sake and also for the light it throws on the present, then A Level History could be for you. You will study two contrasting periods of History, a breadth study covering the whole Tudor century in English history, and a depth study analysing the causes and course of the French Revolution.

Both courses will develop your ability to analyse and evaluate historical material, including contemporary documents and contrasting accounts from different historians. You will learn how to present your own views in a balanced and logical manner in the form of an essay. In addition, the historical investigation will allow you to research and analyse a topic of your own choosing.

Component 1: Breadth study – The Tudors: England, 1485 -1603

Studying a period of more than a century will allow you to develop a secure understanding of the process of change over time. You will develop an understanding of the nature of causes and consequences, of change and continuity and of similarity and differences over a long period of time.

Component 2: Depth study: France in Revolution, 1774-1815

You will develop a detailed knowledge of this key period of history which was to change the relationship between the ruler and the governed, not only in France but throughout Europe and, in time, the wider world.

Component 3: Historical investigation – non-exam assessment

You will study a specific issue or development in the context of a 100 year period.

Mathematics

Mathematics

A Level Mathematics – EDEXCEL 9MA0

A Level Further Mathematics – EDEXCEL 9FM0H0


A Level Mathematics

Mathematics is an extremely popular subject at the College with many pupils continuing to study the subject in the Sixth Form. The ethos of the Mathematics Department is to foster the belief that every pupil can do well in Maths, that mistakes are valuable and that mathematical learning can be fun.

“Mathematics has beauty and romance. It’s not a boring place to be, the mathematical world. It’s an extraordinary place; it’s worth spending time there.”

– Marcus du Sautoy


Through this course you will gain an understanding of mathematical processes and techniques and learn how to use them practically. At a higher level, Mathematics is all about applying your knowledge to real life situations, so an interest in solving problems and puzzles is very useful. You need to be logical so that you can follow a mathematical argument, and creative so that you can look for different ways of applying your skills.

There are three components to the course and these will be studied over the two years: Core Mathematics, Statistics and Mechanics.
The first year of the course will develop your abilities to reason logically and use Mathematics to communicate ideas effectively. Core Mathematics will develop your GCSE skills in algebra, trigonometry, and co-ordinate geometry and introduces some calculus techniques. It also provides the basis for the two applied modules.

The second year of the Mathematics course builds on the work that you studied in the first year. It takes each of the techniques and skills you have acquired and develops them so that you are able to solve more complex problems.

The study of mathematics at A Level is very demanding and requires pupils to be dedicated to the course. A great deal of emphasis is placed on independent learning outside the classroom in order to support the work that is being taught during regular lessons. After all, mathematics is everywhere you look and is key to understanding how the world works.

“If you listen to the great Beatles records, the earliest ones where the lyrics are incredibly simple. Why are they still beautiful? Well, they’re beautifully sung, beautifully played, and the mathematics in them is elegant. They retain their elegance.”

– Bruce Springsteen


A Level Further Mathematics

This is a combination course which takes up two of your A Level options. In the first year pupils study A Level Mathematics and then go on to extend this to Further Mathematics in year two.

If you enjoy solving mathematical problems and have found GCSE Mathematics straightforward then this might be the course for you.

In your first year (ie the Mathematics A level course) you will study three components: Core Mathematics, Mechanics and Statistics.
Core Mathematics builds on the skills you have developed at GCSE. You will continue to develop your abilities in algebra, geometry, trigonometry as well as learning about new techniques and concepts.

The two applied modules explore these techniques in a practical context. The Mechanics module is a very mathematical approach to solving Physics problems and Statistics involves interpreting data and probability. In the second year (ie the Further Mathematics course) you will study:

Core Pure Mathematics, and then a choice of two options from the following:

-Further Pure Mathematics
-Further Statistics
-Decision Mathematics
-Further Mechanics

The Core Pure Mathematics modules build on the skills and techniques studied in the Core Mathematics modules. You will learn about new topics such as Complex Numbers, Matrices and Hyperbolic Functions and develop more complicated techniques in topics like integration so that you can solve harder problems.

Modern Foreign Languages

Modern Foreign Languages

A Level French – AQA 7652

A Level Spanish – AQA 7692


The A Level specification builds on the knowledge, understanding and skills that you gained at GCSE. It constitutes an integrated study with a focus on language, culture and society. It fosters a range of transferable skills including communication, critical thinking, research skills and creativity, which are valuable to the individual and society.

You will study technological and social change, looking at diversity and the benefits it brings. You will study highlights of French or Spanish speaking artistic culture, including music and cinema, and learn about political engagement and who wields political power in the French or Spanish speaking world. You will also explore the influence of the past on present day French and Spanish speaking communities. Throughout your studies, you will learn the language in the context of French and Spanish speaking countries and the issues and influences which have shaped them.

You will study literary texts and film, and you will also have the opportunity to carry out independent research on an area of your choice.

All A Level Language pupils are encouraged to spend some time in a French or Spanish speaking country during the two year course, in order to develop their language and knowledge of the country.

Music & Performing Arts

Music & Performing Arts

A Level Music – Edexcel 9MU0

BTEC Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Performing Arts Practice


A Level Music

Music A Level is suitable for any pupil with an affinity for music and who plays an instrument or sings at approximately Grade VI standard at the beginning of the course. You do not need to have passed an exam, but this gives an indication of the level required. It gives pupils the chance to pursue a personal musical passion as well as working towards a qualification.

‘I’m a rock guitarist. Is this still for me?’ Absolutely. There is no limitation on instrument or vocal style for the performance elements and music of any genre is equally recognised.

The course consists of three units including one exam at the end of Year 13. The new specification for Music includes a diverse range of set works to be studied from all six styles and historical periods, including baroque music, opera, music for film and popular music.


BTEC Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Performing Arts Practice

Pupils taking this qualification will study two mandatory learning and teaching modules:

• Skills Development
• The Performing Arts Industry

The mandatory content allows pupils to concentrate on the development of their technical performance skills and creation techniques and relate them to the performing arts industry.
This qualification offers pupils the opportunity to develop their performance and technical skills through a process of self-evaluation, practice and review which supports them as they start to build their personal portfolio in preparation for entry to higher education. In addition to the performing arts sector-specific content outlined above, the requirements of the qualification will mean that pupils develop the transferable and higher-order skills that are highly regarded by higher education and employers, for example communication skills, team working, personal practice and reflection.

Up to 84 UCAS tariff points – equivalent to 1.5 A Levels

Personalised Learning

Personalised Learning

Personalised Learning in the Sixth Form is focused on developing independent learning skills in preparation for University, Apprenticeships or the first steps in a career.

All pupils in Year 12 follow a scheme of study skills sessions for the first six weeks of the Michaelmas term. This is run by our Academic Mentor.

Some pupils who have had Access Arrangements for GCSE and A Level will qualify for DSA at University. Our SENCo liaises closely with those pupils to work through the process and can liaise with University Student Support.

Philosophy, Religion & Ethics

Philosophy, Religion & Ethics

A Level Religious Studies – OCR H573A


OCR’s A Level in Religious Studies has been designed to provide a coherent and thought provoking programme of study, whilst also acting as a rigorous course of study which prepares you for progression to Higher Education.

This qualification is designed to develop a greater understanding and appreciation of religious beliefs and teachings, as well as the disciplines of ethics and philosophy of religion.

You will develop your skills of critical analysis in order to construct balanced, informed arguments and responses to religious, philosophical and ethical ideas.

You will learn to adopt an enquiring, critical and reflective approach to the study of religion. You will reflect on and develop your own values, opinions and attitudes in the light of your study. There is the opportunity for you to apply your knowledge and skills to contemporary issues, creating an up-to-date and thoroughly relevant course. There is an emphasis on enabling you to respond critically and engage with a wealth of philosophical, ethical and religious concepts, equipping you with analytical skills readily transferable to other subjects.

Physical Education

Physical Education

A Level Physical Education – OCR H555

BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate in Sports Coaching

BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sports Coaching


A Level Physical Education

A Level Physical Education enables you to understand the fundamental concepts of performance. Whether your interest is physiological, psychological, biomechanical, sociological or historical, this course covers it all.

Studying A Level Physical Education will give you a fantastic insight into the amazing world of sports performance. Not only will you have the chance to perform a sport through the non-examination assessment component, you will also develop a wide ranging knowledge of the how and why of physical activity and sport.

The combination of physical performance and academic challenge provides an exciting opportunity for pupils. You can perform, and then through the academic study improve your performance through application of the theory.

Physical Education is studied though a range of different contexts and through the impact it has on both our and others’ everyday lives. In addition to applied anatomy and physiology, exercise physiology, and biomechanics, you will learn the reasons why we do things, why some people out perform others, mentally and physically. You will also delve into the ethical considerations behind the use of drugs and also the influence that modern technology is having in and on physical activity and sport.


BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate in Sports Coaching

The Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Sports Coaching is a qualification for post-16 pupils. The qualification is equivalent in size to one A Level. It may be taken alongside other Level 3 vocational qualifications and/or A Levels as part of a two-year, full-time study programme. For example, it could be taken alongside A Levels in Psychology and Business, to broaden pupils’ potential career options.

You will study the following mandatory units:
Careers in Sport and Active Leisure Industry|Health, Wellbeing and Sport|Developing Coaching Skills
The mandatory content allows pupils to develop their technical coaching skills, supported by underpinning knowledge, and provides the opportunity for pupils to relate these to the sports coaching industry.

Up to 56 UCAS tariff points – equivalent to 1 A Level


BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sports Coaching

BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma is equivalent in size to three A Levels and has been designed as a full two-year programme. This course will provide you with the knowledge, understanding and skills that will allow you to gain broad experience of the sport sector. It will prepare you for further study or training, and it will also provide you with the understanding and the skills you need for employment or an elite career in your chosen sport. You will study the following mandatory units:

Careers in the Sport and Active Leisure Industry | Health, Wellbeing and Sport | Developing Coaching Skills | Applied Coaching Skills | Research Project in Sport | Sport Development | Self-employment in Sport and Physical Activity

You will also study five optional units, selected by your teachers, that have been designed to support your progression to higher education and to link with relevant occupational areas.

Up to 168 UCAS tariff points – equivalent to 3 A Levels

Psychology

Psychology

A Level Psychology – AQA 7182


Why do people get road rage? Why do some commit murder? Ever wondered what makes us attracted to some people and not others? Why is eyewitness testimony unreliable? Do you have an enquiring mind, want to find answers and enjoy discussion and debate? For those who enjoy Maths and Science; Psychology, a fascinating study of the human mind and behaviour, is a great choice.

The course looks at how individuals behave, how their behaviour is measured and what factors influence their behaviour. In this course pupils cover all major areas of psychology by sampling research studies, and using these as a starting point to explore theories and evidence. There is also the opportunity to extend your own research skills by carrying out experiments and statistical calculations during lessons.

A Level board AQA Subject content
Compulsory content

  1. Social influence
  2. Memory
  3. Attachment
  4. Psychopathology
  5. Approaches in Psychology
  6. Biopsychology
  7. Research methods
  8. Issues and debates in Psychology

One from Each Option Group

Option 1 Option 2 Option 3
9. Relationships 12. Schizophrenia 15. Aggression
10. Gender 13. Eating behaviour 16. Forensic Psychology
11. Cognition and development 14. Stress 17. Addiction

Science

Science

A Level Biology – AQA 7402

A Level Chemistry – OCR Chemistry B (Salters) H433

A Level Physics – AQA 7408

BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate in Applied Science


A Level Biology

The last quarter of the 20th century saw enormous progress in biological knowledge, quite literally unlocking the mystery of the gene and thereby empowering us to manipulate life itself. As biologists are discovering more and more about life on earth, we are becoming more aware of the delicate balance of nature and that it is our responsibility to protect the environment for future generations.

Topics you will cover in our course include:

Biological molecules | Cells | Organism exchange substances with their environment | Genetic information | variation and relationships between organisms | Energy transfers in and between organisms | Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments, Genetics | populations | evolution and ecosystems | The control of gene expression.

Practical work is at the heart of Biology and you will have the opportunity to use a number of apparatus and become familiar with a range of techniques in order to complete the twelve required practical elements of the coursework.

Overall, at least 10% of the marks in assessments for biology will require the use of mathematical skills. These skills will be applied in the context of biology and will be at least the standard of higher tier GCSE mathematics.


A Level Chemistry

Chemistry in the Sixth Form is a rewarding mixture of skills-based practical work and chemical concepts expanded from GCSE. Taught within the context of everyday life, it explores the chemistry involved in themes as diverse as concerns about the ozone layer to the development of new medicines.

In contrast to the traditional topic-based approach, Chemistry B (Salters) is context-led. Chemical concepts are introduced within a relevant context in a series of storyline modules based on contemporary issues in Chemistry. You will study the chemistry in a spiral way so that chemical ideas, introduced in an early topic, are reinforced later. Topics you will cover include:

Elements of life | Developing fuels | Elements from the sea | The ozone story | What’s in a medicine? | The chemical industry | Polymers and life | Oceans | Developing metals | Colour by design

There is a strong emphasis on providing pupils with opportunities to develop and practise their investigational and problem-solving skills.

These skills will be assessed in a specially designed written paper at the end of the A Level course as well as throughout the course in the practical endorsement. Chemical literacy, your ability to understand a passage of text, extract information from it and use this information will also be reinforced and assessed.


A Level Physics

Physicists explore the Universe. Our investigations range from the stars that are billions of kilometres away to the nature of subatomic particles. As well as trying to find the facts by observation and experiment, they also try to discover laws to summarise these facts. Sense is made of the facts by formulating theories that explain the laws. The rewards are immense. As we obtain a better understanding of the physical world we can help solve the practical problems in order to benefit mankind and help us to look after our planet. Advanced level Physics is an introduction to this world.

In this course you will study the following eight topics and one of the optional topics listed.

Measurements and their errors | Particles and radiation | Waves | Mechanics and materials | Electricity | Further mechanics and thermal physics | Fields and their consequences | Nuclear physics

Options

Astrophysics | Medical physics | Engineering physics | Turning points in physics | Electronics

This course offers numerous opportunities to use practical experiences to link theory to reality and will equip you with the essential practical skills you will need.


BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate in Applied Science

The Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Certificate in Applied Science is intended as an Applied General qualification for pupils who want to continue their education through applied learning and who aim to progress to higher education, and ultimately to employment, possibly in the applied science sector. The qualification is equivalent in size to one A Level and aims to give a coherent introduction to the study of applied science.

The content of this qualification has been developed in consultation with academics to ensure that it supports progression to higher education. Learners will study two mandatory units:

  • Unit 1: Principles and Applications of Science
  • Unit 2: Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques
  • Unit 3: Science Investigation Skills

Up to 56 UCAS tariff points – equivalent to 1 A Level

English as an Additional Language

English as an Additional Language

Cambridge First Certificate in English [FCE]

Cambridge Advanced in English [CAE]

Cambridge Proficiency in English [CPE]

International English Language Testing System [IELTS]


The EAL Department is about so much more than helping with language aquisition. It is also important to ensure that overseas pupils settle down happily within their new environment and to help them with any initial learning difficulties, culture shock and possible homesickness. For pupils who are far from home it is essential that we do all we can to promote their spiritual, moral, social and cultural development and we achieve this through tuition on a one-to-one or very small group basis with each pupil’s needs individually assessed. We provide a teaching programme of English Language support to enable pupils to work effectively towards their GCSE or A-level examinations and we prepare them for EAL examinations such as Cambridge English: First (FCE); the Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE); the Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE); and the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) examination.

Experience has shown that pupils benefit from extra EAL lessons in the Sixth Form. Consequently, in the Lower Sixth, they have two compulsory lessons weekly, either on a one-to-one basis or shared in very small groups, as part of their timetable; this will revert to one lesson weekly in the Upper Sixth. This helps to maximize their achievement at A Level, gain one of the Cambridge University TESOL exams and ensure the attainment of university requirements in English, such as IELTS, for British universities.

Examinations

Sixth Form pupils take one of the Cambridge ESOL exams and if needed, the IELTS exam; an obligatory requirement if they are intending to go to a British university.

All the Cambridge University ESOL examinations are internationally recognised, prestigious awards and a credit to any pupil when returning to their own country.

AEGIS