Sixth Form Academic

At Mount Kelly, our A Level programme is designed to strike the perfect balance between academic rigour and personalised learning. We believe every pupil should have the opportunity to follow a curriculum tailored to their unique interests and strengths, empowering them to thrive both intellectually and personally.

Most pupils entering the Sixth Form choose three A Level subjects, studied over two years, with exams at the end of Upper Sixth. Many also take the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) to deepen their independent research skills. For those with particular strengths, such as in Mathematics and Further Mathematics, there is the option to take four full A Levels. Additionally, all pupils participate in our distinctive Beyond the Curriculum programme, which enriches their education with essential skills and experiences beyond traditional subjects.

A Level Subjects Offered

Visual & Creative Arts

• Art and Design: Fine Art
• Design Technology: Product Design
• Music

Humanities

• Economics
• Geography
• Politics
• History
• Religious Studies

Sciences

• Biology
• Chemistry
• Physics
• Psychology

Mathematics

• Mathematics
• Further Mathematics

Languages & Literature

• English Literature
• Modern Foreign Languages: French
• Modern Foreign Languages: Spanish

Sports & Physical Education

• Physical Education

Other Academic Opportunities

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

Our Sixth Form curriculum is crafted to nurture both academic excellence and individual passion, equipping pupils with the skills and knowledge to excel at university and beyond.

Level 3 Extended Certificate in Applied Science

Level 3 Extended Certificate in Sport Development & Coaching

Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport Development & Coaching

Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Performing Arts Practice

The BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma is a two-year, full-time qualification equivalent to three A Levels, while the Extended Certificate matches one A Level and can be studied alongside two other A Levels.

Designed for learners who prefer continuous assessment over final course exams, BTEC courses are 100% internally assessed through practical assignments and real-world projects. This creates a supportive and engaging learning environment where effort and application truly count.

BTEC suits pupils who want to stay in education, enjoy hands-on learning, and prefer to develop skills and knowledge without the pressure of traditional exams. All pupils also take part in Mount Kelly’s ‘Beyond the Curriculum’ programme, adding breadth to their education.

Why choose BTEC?

• 74% of employers value practical knowledge and skills in new hires
• 90% of BTEC students find full-time employment after graduation
• 25% of UK university entrants in 2024 had a BTEC qualification

BTECs focus on learning by doing. Pupils apply their knowledge immediately through assignments based on real-life work situations, preparing them effectively for university and future careers.

Assessment Overview

• Assignments: Set and marked internally, these are task-based projects simulating real work scenarios. Pupils develop skills and knowledge gradually, earning unit grades of Pass, Merit, or Distinction.
• Set Tasks or Practical Tests: Some newer BTEC courses include externally set and marked practical tests or written assessments by Pearson, also graded on the Pass–Distinction scale.

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

A Level Art and Design – EDEXCEL 9FA0

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 Design Technology Product Design – AQA 7552

Most pupils entering A Level Product Design will have already studied the subject at GCSE, as the course is designed to build on existing knowledge and skills.

Creativity and innovation lie at the heart of this subject. Successful students are self-motivated, deadline-driven, and enjoy working hands-on with a variety of materials, tools, and machinery to create high-quality, ‘shop standard’ products.

You will deepen your understanding of materials such as wood, metals, plastics, composites, smart materials, paper, and board. The course also explores the latest developments in science, technology, and innovation shaping modern design.

Key topics include ergonomics, sustainability, consumer safety, CAD/CAM technologies, and mass production processes — all studied with a focus on how contemporary product design impacts the environment.

Historical and cultural perspectives are integrated through the study and evaluation of famous designers and design movements, helping you develop an appreciation for the balance between form and function.

Over two years, you will complete practical, skills-building projects in Year 1, progressing to a major ‘design and make’ project in Year 2. The final project options are set by the exam board at the end of the first year. Throughout the course, subject theory runs alongside practical work to give a well-rounded understanding of design principles and processes.

A Level Economics – EDEXCEL – Economics A 9EC0

Our aim is to inspire each pupil to develop their business and enterprise skills while gaining a deep appreciation of the dynamic economic environment in which firms and individuals operate.

Economics touches every part of our lives — from the choices we make as consumers and workers to the policies shaped by governments and businesses worldwide. Studying Economics offers a fascinating and valuable lens through which to understand these complex interactions and the world around us.

Economics can be defined as the study of how scarce resources are allocated between competing needs and demands. It addresses many of the pressing challenges faced by modern societies and governments.

In the first year, pupils explore the nature of markets and their crucial role in allocating resources efficiently. They learn to analyse how supply and demand interact to shape markets, and study the government’s role when markets fail or require intervention.

Pupils then investigate the performance of the UK economy, including how macroeconomic activity is measured and influenced by policies. This includes examining key economic indicators, government strategies, and challenges both nationally and internationally.

In the second year, the focus shifts to deeper analysis of labour markets, business structures, and the broader economic environment. Pupils study government policies impacting economic performance, employment, and business behaviour.

Finally, the course broadens to cover the performance of the global economy, offering a comprehensive framework for understanding international trade, sustainable development, the financial sector, and globalisation. This global perspective equips pupils to analyse economics in an interconnected and evolving world.

A Level English Literature – (B) 7717

This course offers an engaging and varied exploration of literature, encouraging you to study texts through the lens of genre and literary theory. You will examine diverse themes such as Elements of Crime Fiction and Aspects of Tragedy and Comedy, enabling a deeper understanding of how literature reflects society and human experience.

You’ll be encouraged to read widely and independently, with the flexibility to pursue personal interests in your coursework. Assessment formats are varied and include passage-based questions, responses to unseen texts, single and multiple text essays, as well as open- and closed-book exams. This variety develops key skills such as critical reading, analysis, evaluation, and independent research—essential for higher education and future careers.

Course 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 two texts (one poetry, one prose) chosen with teacher guidance and informed by the Critical Anthology.

Current set texts include:
King Lear | Tess of the D’Urbervilles | Ballad of Reading Gaol | Death of a Salesman | Brighton Rock

Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) — Level 3

The EPQ offers a flexible and creative opportunity to explore a subject you’re passionate about. You have the freedom to choose your topic and decide how best to present your findings, whether through an extended essay or report, practical investigation, performance, creative work, model, multimedia presentation, or any other suitable format.

This Level 3 qualification runs alongside your A Level or BTEC courses over two terms and must be completed by the end of March. It involves around 30 hours of taught skills sessions plus approximately 90 hours of independent research and work. Each pupil is assigned a project supervisor who supports and guides them throughout the process with regular meetings.

Why choose the EPQ?

• Dive deeply into a topic that fascinates you
• Develop vital research, critical thinking, and extended writing skills
• Connect ideas from multiple subjects in an interdisciplinary project
• Earn valuable UCAS points that can strengthen your university application
• Gain rich material to discuss in personal statements and interviews

Recent EPQ examples

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

Course Outline

• Conduct in-depth research on your chosen topic
• Keep a detailed Production Log documenting your progress
• Produce a substantial piece of work and deliver a presentation
• Assessment is based on your Production Log, the final project, and the presentation

A Level Geography – EDUQAS – A110QS

Geography helps us understand pressing issues at local, national, and global scales—from the effects of climate change to how communities prepare for natural hazards. Through current research, geographers provide valuable insights that shape how we respond to the complex interactions between people, places, and environments.

This course fosters a passion for geography by exploring real-world, contemporary contexts. It combines both physical and human geography, with a strong emphasis on people–environment relationships and practical fieldwork.

Core Topics:

• Changing Landscapes and Changing Places
• Glaciated Landscapes
• Changing Places
• Global Systems and Global Governance
• Water and Carbon Cycles
• Processes and patterns of global migration and global governance of the Earth’s oceans

Contemporary Themes in Geography

Pupils select two essay questions from four optional themes, allowing tailored study in areas such as:

• Ecosystems
• Economic Growth and Challenge: India or China
• Development in an African Context
• Energy Challenges and Dilemmas
• Weather and Climate

A Level Politics – EDEXCEL 9PL0

This course develops pupils’ knowledge and understanding of how politics shapes local, national, and global issues, alongside the study of key political thinkers and ideas.

At its core is the study of UK politics and government. Pupils explore the Westminster system, democratic processes, political participation, and contemporary political debates shaping modern Britain.

Alongside this, pupils examine three core political ideologies — Liberalism, Conservatism, and Socialism — plus a fourth chosen from anarchism, ecologism, feminism, multiculturalism, or nationalism. In the second year, pupils broaden their perspective by studying US politics, comparing the UK system with that of the United States.

Component 1: UK Politics

• Democracy and political participation
• Political parties and electoral systems
• Voting behaviour and the role of the media
• Core political ideas: Conservatism, Liberalism, Socialism

Component 2: UK Government

• The Constitution and Parliament
• The Prime Minister and the executive
• Relationships between branches of government
• Non-core political ideas (choose one): Anarchism, Ecologism, Feminism, Multiculturalism, Nationalism

Component 3: Comparative Politics (USA)

• The US Constitution and federalism
• The US Congress, Presidency, and Supreme Court
• Civil rights, democracy, and political participation
• Comparative political theories

A Level History – AQA 7042

If you are fascinated by the past, both for its own sake and for the fresh insights it offers into the present, A Level History is an inspiring choice. This course invites you to explore two contrasting and pivotal periods: a sweeping breadth study of the entire Tudor century in English history, alongside an in-depth analysis of the causes and course of the French Revolution.

Throughout your studies, you will sharpen your skills in analysing and evaluating a rich range of historical sources, from contemporary documents to diverse interpretations by leading historians. You’ll learn to craft well-balanced, persuasive essays and develop your own informed viewpoints. The course also includes an exciting historical investigation, giving you the chance to independently research a topic that sparks your curiosity.

Component 1: Breadth Study – The Tudors: England, 1485-1603
Explore over a century of dynamic change, deepening your understanding of cause and consequence, continuity and change, and the complexities of historical similarities and differences over time.

Component 2: Depth Study – France in Revolution, 1774-1815
Delve into this transformative era that redefined the relationship between rulers and the governed, not just in France, but across Europe and the wider world.

Component 3: Historical Investigation – Non-exam Assessment
Undertake an independent study on a specific issue or development within a 100-year historical period, honing your research and analytical skills.

A Level Mathematics – EDEXCEL 9MA0

A Level Further Mathematics – EDEXCEL 9FM0H0

A Level Mathematics

Mathematics is one of the most popular subjects at Mount Kelly, with many pupils choosing to continue their studies into the Sixth Form. The Mathematics Department is committed to creating an environment where every pupil believes they can succeed. We value the learning that comes from making mistakes and aim to make mathematical study both enjoyable and rewarding.

This course develops your understanding of mathematical concepts, techniques, and their practical applications. At A Level, mathematics goes beyond formulas — it’s about problem-solving, logical thinking, and creative approaches to challenges. You will build skills to follow and construct mathematical arguments, and apply your knowledge to real-world situations.

The course is divided into three main areas, studied over two years: Core Mathematics, Statistics, and Mechanics.

• Year 1: Focuses on developing logical reasoning and effective mathematical communication. You’ll build on GCSE skills in algebra, trigonometry, coordinate geometry, and be introduced to calculus concepts. This year also lays the foundation for applied topics
• Year 2: Advances your understanding and problem-solving skills, tackling more complex mathematical challenges and deepening your knowledge across all components

Mathematics at this level is demanding and requires dedication. Independent study outside the classroom is essential to support your learning. Mathematics is fundamental to understanding how the world works — and you’ll find it in everything you do.

A Level Further Mathematics

Further Mathematics is an extension of the A Level Mathematics course, taking up two A Level options. It’s ideal for pupils who enjoy mathematical problem-solving and who have found GCSE Mathematics manageable.

Year 1: You will study the A Level Mathematics core, covering Core Mathematics, Mechanics, and Statistics.

Year 2: Builds on this with Further Mathematics, including Core Pure Mathematics and a choice of two optional modules from:

• Further Pure Mathematics
• Further Statistics
• Decision Mathematics
• Further Mechanics

Further Mathematics deepens your skills with new and challenging topics such as Complex Numbers, Matrices, and Hyperbolic Functions, and advanced integration techniques to solve sophisticated problems.

A Level French – AQA 7652

A Level Spanish – AQA 7692

The A Level course builds on the knowledge, skills, and understanding developed at GCSE, offering a rich, integrated study of language, culture, and society. It cultivates a range of transferable skills, including effective communication, critical thinking, research, and creativity. These are valuable assets for both personal growth and wider society.

Throughout the course, you will explore key themes such as technological and social change, the celebration of diversity, and its positive impact on communities. You will engage with French or Spanish-speaking artistic culture through music, cinema, and literature, while examining political structures and the dynamics of power in these regions. The course also highlights the influence of historical events on contemporary French and Spanish-speaking societies.

Language learning is contextualised through real-world issues and cultural insights from French and Spanish-speaking countries, helping you gain a deeper understanding of both the language and the people who speak it.

You will study a range of literary texts and films and have the opportunity to conduct independent research on a topic that interests you.

To enhance language skills and cultural awareness, all A Level pupils are encouraged to spend time in a French or Spanish-speaking country during the two years of study.

A Level Music – Edexcel 9MU0

BTEC Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Performing Arts Practice

A Level Music

This course is ideal for any pupil with a genuine passion for music who plays an instrument or sings to approximately Grade VI standard (though formal exam success is not required). It offers the opportunity to develop your personal musical interests while working towards a recognised qualification.

Whether you’re a classical pianist, a rock guitarist, or a vocalist in any style, this course welcomes all instruments and genres equally for the performance components.

The course is made up of three units, including a final exam at the end of Year 13. The updated syllabus covers a wide variety of set works spanning six styles and historical periods, from Baroque masterpieces and opera to film scores and popular music, providing a rich and diverse musical experience.

BTEC Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Performing Arts Practice

Performing Arts Qualification

Pupils studying this qualification engage with two core modules:

• Skills Development
• The Performing Arts Industry

These mandatory modules focus on honing technical performance abilities and creative techniques, while providing insight into the wider performing arts industry.

The course encourages pupils to develop their skills through ongoing self-evaluation, practice, and reflection. This process helps them build a strong personal portfolio, laying the groundwork for further study in higher education.

Beyond industry-specific knowledge, pupils will also cultivate valuable transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, disciplined personal practice, and critical reflection — all highly valued by universities and employers alike.

This qualification offers up to 84 UCAS tariff points, equivalent to 1.5 A Levels.

At Mount Kelly, Personalised Learning in the Sixth Form is designed to develop independent learning skills, preparing pupils for university, apprenticeships, or the start of their careers.

All Year 12 pupils participate in a dedicated study skills programme during the first six weeks of the Michaelmas term, led by our Academic Mentor. This programme equips them with essential strategies to succeed in their studies and beyond.

For pupils with Access Arrangements at GCSE and A Level, support continues through the Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) process at university. Our SENCo works closely with these pupils, guiding them through the application process and liaising with university student support services to ensure a smooth transition.

A Level Religious Studies – OCR H573A

OCR’s A Level Religious Studies offers a coherent and thought-provoking programme designed to challenge and inspire pupils while providing a rigorous foundation for progression to higher education.

This course deepens understanding and appreciation of religious beliefs and teachings alongside the disciplines of ethics and philosophy of religion. Pupils will develop critical thinking skills, learning to construct balanced and well-informed arguments on complex religious, philosophical, and ethical issues.

The course encourages an enquiring, reflective, and analytical approach to the study of religion, inviting pupils to explore and develop their own values and perspectives. With a strong focus on contemporary issues, the syllabus remains relevant and engaging, fostering the ability to critically engage with a wide range of philosophical and ethical concepts.

The analytical and evaluative skills gained through this course are highly transferable, benefiting pupils across a broad spectrum of academic subjects and future career paths.

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 offers a comprehensive exploration of the key concepts underpinning sports performance. Whether your passion lies in the physiological, psychological, biomechanical, sociological, or historical aspects of sport, this course covers it all.

You’ll gain a deep understanding of how and why physical activity affects us, combining practical performance with academic study. Through the non-examination assessment, you will have the opportunity to demonstrate your skills in a sport of your choice, while learning to enhance your performance through the application of theory.

The course investigates a range of contexts, including applied anatomy and physiology, exercise physiology, and biomechanics. You will explore the mental and physical factors that influence performance, delve into ethical issues such as the use of performance-enhancing drugs, and examine the impact of modern technology on sport and physical activity.

This blend of practical experience and academic challenge makes A Level Physical Education a dynamic and engaging option for pupils keen to understand sport in depth.

BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate in Sports Coaching

The Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Sports Coaching is equivalent to one A Level and is designed for post-16 pupils. It can be taken alongside other Level 3 qualifications or A Levels as part of a two-year full-time study programme. For example, it complements A Levels such as Psychology or Business, broadening pupils’ career pathways.

Mandatory units include:

• Careers in Sport and Active Leisure Industry
• Health, Wellbeing and Sport
• Developing Coaching Skills

This qualification focuses on developing technical coaching skills underpinned by essential knowledge, preparing pupils to relate their learning directly to the sports coaching industry.

UCAS Tariff: Up to 56 points (equivalent to 1 A Level)

BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sports Coaching

Equivalent to three A Levels, the BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma is a full two-year course designed to provide broad experience of the sport sector. It prepares pupils for further education, training, or employment within the sports industry, including elite sporting careers.

Mandatory units include:

• Careers in 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

In addition, pupils will study five optional units tailored by teachers to support progression to higher education and align with occupational areas.

UCAS Tariff: Up to 168 points (equivalent to 3 A Levels)

A Level Psychology – AQA 7182

Why do people experience road rage? What drives someone to commit murder? What makes us attracted to certain people and not others? Why can eyewitness testimony be unreliable? If you have an enquiring mind, enjoy exploring human behaviour, and thrive on discussion and debate, especially if you like Maths and Science, then Psychology is an exciting and rewarding choice.

This course investigates how individuals behave, how behaviour is measured, and the many factors that influence it. You will explore key areas of psychology through research studies, using these as a foundation to understand theories and evaluate evidence. There’s also the chance to develop your own research skills by conducting experiments and applying statistical analysis during lessons.

A Level Psychology (AQA) Subject Content

Compulsory topics:

• Social Influence
• Memory
• Attachment
• Psychopathology
• Approaches in Psychology
• Biopsychology
• Research Methods
• Issues and Debates in Psychology

Option topics (choose one from each group):

• Option Group 1: Relationships | Gender | Cognition and Development
• Option Group 2: Schizophrenia | Eating Behaviour | Stress
• Option Group 3: Aggression | Forensic Psychology | Addiction

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 final decades of the 20th century revolutionised our understanding of biology, unlocking the secrets of the gene and opening up new possibilities to shape life itself. As scientific discoveries continue to deepen our knowledge of life on Earth, we also recognise the fragile balance of ecosystems and our crucial role in safeguarding the environment for future generations.

In this course, you will explore a wide range of fascinating topics, including:

• Biological molecules
• Cell structure and function
• How organisms exchange substances with their environment
• Genetic information and inheritance
• Variation and the relationships between organisms
• Energy transfer within and between organisms
• How organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments
• Genetics, populations, evolution, and ecosystems

The control of gene expression

Practical work is central to studying Biology, giving you hands-on experience with essential laboratory equipment and techniques as you complete the twelve required practical investigations.

Additionally, at least 10% of assessment marks will involve applying mathematical skills within biological contexts, requiring competence at least equivalent to higher-tier GCSE Maths.

A Level Chemistry

Chemistry in the Sixth Form offers a stimulating blend of hands-on practical work and in-depth exploration of chemical concepts building on your GCSE foundation. Taught through real-world contexts, the course covers a wide range of topics — from environmental challenges like the ozone layer to cutting-edge developments in medicine.

Unlike traditional topic-by-topic teaching, Chemistry B (Salters) takes a context-led approach. Chemical principles are introduced through engaging storyline modules that focus on contemporary issues, allowing you to revisit and deepen your understanding of key ideas as you progress. Topics 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

A strong emphasis is placed on developing your investigational and problem-solving skills, which are assessed through a dedicated written exam and practical endorsement at the end of the course. The course also sharpens your chemical literacy or the ability to interpret scientific texts, extract relevant information, and apply it effectively.

A Level Physics

Physics is the study of the universe, from the vastness of distant stars to the tiniest subatomic particles. Physicists observe, experiment, and uncover the fundamental laws that govern how everything works. By developing theories that explain these laws, physics helps us solve real-world problems, benefit humanity, and care for our planet. A Level Physics is your gateway into this fascinating world.

The course covers eight core topics, alongside one optional specialism:

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

Optional topics include:

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

Practical work is a key part of the course, linking theory with real-world experience and developing essential skills that will prepare you for future study or careers in science and engineering.

BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate in Applied Science

The Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Certificate in Applied Science is designed for pupils who prefer a hands-on, applied approach to learning and who wish to progress to higher education and careers in the science sector. Equivalent in size to one A Level, this qualification offers a clear and practical introduction to applied science.

Developed in collaboration with academic experts, the course content supports smooth progression to university and beyond. Pupils will study three core units:

• Principles and Applications of Science
• Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques
• Science Investigation Skills

This qualification carries up to 56 UCAS tariff points, equivalent to one A Level.

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 acquisition. 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 A-level examinations and we prepare them for the appropriate EAL examinations, such as the Cambridge Suite of exams or IELTS exams.

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 English Language 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 English Language exams and if needed, the IELTS exam; an obligatory requirement if they are intending to go to a British university.

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