WADDESDON CHURCH OF ENGLAND SCHOOL SIXTH FORM PROSPECTUS 2017
Welcome to Waddesdon Church of England School Sixth Form We are delighted you are considering applying to our Sixth Form; we hope this prospectus will help you to understand how our Sixth Form operates as well as supporting you through the application process. We pride ourselves in being an inclusive Sixth Form. The majority of our own Year 11 students choose to make the transition to our Sixth Form and we also welcome approximately one third of our students from other schools. Students settle into Sixth Form life very quickly and often talk about being part of the Sixth Form Family. As well as ensuring our students thrive academically, we are also keen to help students to develop into well-rounded and responsible young adults, ready to face the challenges of the modern world. We want our students to become independent, resourceful and resilient learners, fostering their intellectual curiosity, team work and leadership skills. We are passionate about supporting every student to achieve their post 18 aspirations, be those at university, in a higher apprenticeship, employment or through a Gap Year. We set very high expectations and standards for all of our students in the Sixth Form and we are incredibly proud of our students achievements. Testimony to the hard work of our students and teachers is our grading of outstanding from Alps for both our AS and A level results last summer. We hope you will want to apply to our Sixth Form and we look forward to welcoming you. If you are not a current member of Year 11 at Waddesdon, we would strongly recommend coming into school during a normal day for a tour with our current Sixth Form students, so you can see and hear at first-hand what we offer. The very best of luck with your GCSE examinations and I look forward to meeting you soon. Miss McIver Head of Sixth Form/Assistant Headteacher
SIXTH FORM EXPECTATIONS At Waddesdon, we endeavour to create a relaxed, but professional and disciplined atmosphere. The Sixth Form sets the tone for the whole school. As well as excelling academically, we hope our students will become involved in a leadership role within the school and undertake some aspect of community service during their Sixth Form career. We expect the appearance, conduct and courtesy of our Sixth Form students to enhance the school s reputation in the community. We require students to adopt the image of young professionals. For young men, this means wearing a suit with a shirt and tie. For young women, this means wearing a trouser suit, suit skirt and jacket, or a smart dress and suit jacket, with a shirt or plain top. Skirts and dresses must be an appropriate length and style for school as deemed by the Head of Sixth Form. Facial piercings and excessive jewellery for boys and girls are not allowed. Young men must not grow facial hair unless for religious observance. As young professionals, students are expected to sign and conform to the Sixth Form Contract, which sets out the school expectations. The contract lasts for one year and is then renewed on entry into Year 13. Each Sixth Form student has a personal tutor who monitors progress, helps with target setting and tries to solve any problems that may arise. Students and parents receive a Progress Report four times a year to help students understand the progress they are making in each of their A level subjects. Whilst at Waddesdon, everyone has the opportunity of participating in a range of social and leisure activities. In addition, there are opportunities to take part in residential experiences, international exchanges and visits such as skiing, theatres, museums and galleries. Excursions are also organised to support Sixth Form Programmes of Study. Students have a Sixth Form Group Study Area, a Study Centre and teaching areas, as well as open access to the Library, Art and Computer rooms. Students have supported self-study periods. With the demands of Sixth Form work, it is essential that students make the best use of this time. We expect students to become involved in one or more of the extra-curricular activities we are able to offer, particularly on Wednesday afternoons. This may involve joining team games, undertaking recreational activities, becoming involved in community service inside or outside school, participating in the Duke of Edinburgh Award at Silver or Gold level or becoming involved in one of the school s Young Enterprise companies.
MAKING A FRESH START A STUDENT S VIEW We take pride in the way staff and students welcome newcomers to the Sixth Form. We realise this can be a daunting experience and every effort is made to support the transition. Many new Sixth Formers go on to become Prefects or Heads of School within nine months of joining the school. A Year 13 student who was new to the school summed up his experience: My views of Sixth Form had always been affected by my father s desire for me to attend college and become a more independent student. However, college did not have the subject choices I wanted and through recommendation from family, friends and teachers, we found Waddesdon CE School. Some people feel that attending Sixth Form will be much like GCSE and you will have all the answers fed to you, with no room for independence. However, on the Sixth Form Open Evening, I found that the workload would be self-managed, but help would always be available if I stumbled upon a difficulty. This almost instantly sold Waddesdon CE School to me. I found a place where I could be an independent learner but also receive the necessary teaching and guidance. One of the most common fears of joining a new school is that of being excluded by other students who already had their friendship groups or by the older Year 13 students. When I attended Waddesdon CE School for the Foundation Days I found, along with many other students, that this fear was completely irrational. Form groups are a mixture of Year 12 and 13 students making integration easier. This immediately put me in a group where I was with the new students, both internal and external, whilst the older ones took the time to ensure we quickly settled into the Sixth Form. One poignant thing to be noted about Waddesdon CE School, however, is the sense of community and support that you feel. There are daily assemblies of a sincere and informative nature. Sixth Form students will also get the chance, if desired, to lead an assembly and entertain their peers. These, to new students, may look like a monotonous process, but they are actually enjoyable, providing structure and routine to the start of every day. Some students may say change is not always a great idea in reference to education, but the transition from GCSE to A level at Waddesdon CE School is definitely a change worth making. The mutual respect between students and teachers is plain to see and is an undoubted strength of the school. The facilities that Waddesdon has to offer are of a very high standard and enable students to fulfil their potential. I am now coming to the end of my Sixth Form Career and have never looked back; I only hope University will be just as rewarding as the last two years.
CITIZENSHIP IN THE SIXTH FORM Our aim is to nurture and educate our students, enabling them to fulfil their potential and become valuable members of society. Involvement in the Citizenship programme is compulsory and takes place on Wednesday afternoons or at another designated time during the school week: The Citizenship programme is reflected in the following range of enrichment programmes and activities: Sport, Drama, and Music Clubs Leading Sixth Form or whole school assemblies Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme Young Enterprise Community Sports Leadership Award (CSLA) Community Service opportunities include volunteering in Key Stage 3 lessons, supporting younger students as reading mentors, volunteering at the local Primary School or working in the village Wednesday Club for the elderly, amongst other community projects Fundraising organised and run by Sixth Formers for a variety of charities and link schools in other countries Mediators Sixth Form students are trained to mediate with younger students to resolve conflict or disagreement, arriving at a positive conclusion A group of Sixth Form students have the opportunity to visit Thiruchirapalli (Trichy) in Southern India each year, staying at a university and visiting an orphanage, a centre for blind women and local schools The Prefect System is an important and valuable opportunity for students to take additional responsibility within the school community, in order to develop their maturity. In the Spring Term of Year 12, students vote for the Head and Deputy Heads of School. At this time, students can apply to become Prefects and, following induction training, assume their responsibilities before the Easter holidays. The Sixth Form Citizenship Programme aims to help students to become responsible citizens capable of taking their place in twenty-first century society with an awareness of the issues which face the global community and with critical thinking skills which enable them to make rational judgements and evaluations.
EXTENSION STUDIES PROGRAMME This is a compulsory part of the Waddesdon Sixth Form Programme of Study in Year 12 and includes sessions on study skills, exam confidence and public speaking as well as university, apprenticeship and employment application procedures. During this lesson each fortnight, students are also encouraged to consider current affairs and to develop critical thinking skills. There are also sessions on health, personal safety and well-being. In the second half of the summer term, the focus is future careers and university applications. As part of this, students complete a CV, a personal statement and a letter of application. EMPLOYABILITY AWARD To support students in recognising, developing and demonstrating key employability skills, we present Employability Awards at the end of Year 12. Students can achieve this award at Bronze, Silver or Gold level. The award recognises three elements: high attendance, good punctuality and professional dress; a weekly community service or work experience placement; two activities from an extensive list of challenging activities such as delivering a whole school assembly or taking a school leadership role. EXTENDED PROJECT QUALIFICATION (EPQ) After February half term, a number of Year 12 students may opt to take the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) on a research question of their choosing. They are allocated a member of staff as a supervisor, devise their own question and complete independent research to produce an extended essay or piece in response. They receive a grade for the EPQ which is worth more UCAS points than an AS level qualification.
THE SIXTH FORM CURRICULUM FOR 2017: A Brief Explanation Year 12 Students usually take three or four AS levels. In exceptional cases, they may take five AS levels. In selecting their subjects, students are encouraged to seek breadth. Universities have indicated this is what they will be seeking. All Year 12 students take the Sixth Form Extension Studies Programme and enrichment activities as noted previously. Year 13 Most students continue with three of their AS level subjects to complete full A levels. They may, in exceptional cases, wish to pick up another AS level subject during Year 13. Other students continue with two of their AS level subjects to complete full A levels and pick a further one (or two) AS level subjects or a work experience placement during Year 13. These choices are discussed at the Sixth Form Open Evening and during the student/parent admission consultation. At that consultation students are encouraged to explain their choices and indicate how they think they can help them progress into work or on to higher education. Students intending to go on to university need to think carefully about the combination of their subjects. Many universities still expect to see a strong linkage between the A level subjects and the degree or career route the student eventually decides to take. The Examinations All A level syllabuses are examined in units with one examination session each year, at the end of Year 12 and Year 13, in May/June. Students sit AS examinations in all of their subjects at the end of Year 12. For most A level subjects we offer, if the student decides to carry the subject onto A2 in Year 13, the AS examination result will NOT count towards the overall A level result. If the student decides not to carry the AS subject on into Year 13, they are awarded the AS result.
OPTION CHOICES FOR SEPTEMBER 2017 Students may choose from their AS level subjects from the option blocks below. One subject to be selected per block/column please. The Waddesdon Option Blocks for 2017 Option A Option B Option C Option D Option E Maths Physics Chemistry Biology Economics English Biology History Food and Nutrition Music: BTEC Diploma Spanish Drama and Theatre Studies Business Art & Design Design Technology Textiles Psychology Psychology Philosophy & Ethics (RS) Philosophy & Ethics (RS) Business Applied Science Art & Design: Photography Art & Design: Graphics Product Design English Media Studies IFS Finance Sociology Physical Education Geography French GCSE Resit Maths/English Further Maths Key: Subjects in bold are Applied A levels. IFS Finance Certificate is equivalent to an AS level and the Diploma is equivalent to an A level. BTEC Subsidiary Diploma in Music (Level 3) is equivalent to one A level and is examined at the end of Year 13 through coursework. It is possible to gain a Double BTEC qualification worth two A levels.
ADMISSION TO THE SIXTH FORM 1. ADMISSION NUMBER Governors have determined that the published admission number for external applicants to the Sixth Form will be 40. The figure has been determined with regard to the staying on rate for pupils already at the school and the historical number of places which have been awarded to external applicants. It is not expected that the total number in any one year group in the Sixth Form will exceed 140. In determining this number Governors had regard to the overall capacity of the school and were also mindful of the planning obligation agreement imposed as a condition of planning consent for the last new building erected. This required the Governing Body to give an assurance that they would not seek to grow the school. 2. ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Entrance to the Sixth Form is on the basis of suitability to undertake the academic or vocational courses being provided. The school will arrange personal discussions with potential students to advise on course availability and suitability and to set down the expectations of embarking on a Sixth Form course of study. In determining whether a place can be offered, the decision will be based on the academic requirements of the course applied for. In making this determination the points scale set down below will be used. Points are calculated by taking the numerical GCSE results in Mathematics and English Language using the upper grid, and then adding points for the next FOUR best GCSE grade results in other subjects using the middle grid. If English Literature is one of the next best four GCSE results, it can be included in the points total using the lower grid. In addition, students will generally be expected to have obtained a minimum of 5s or B grades at GCSE in the subjects (or associated subjects) they wish to study at A level (see over). GCSE ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND MATHS GCSE number Waddesdon Points 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 32 30 28 24 22 20 12 6 2
BEST FOUR GCSE GRADES GCSE grade Waddesdon Points A* A B C D E F G 16 14 12 10 6 3 2 1 IF ENGLISH LITERATURE IS ONE OF THE BEST FOUR GCSE number Waddesdon Points 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 16 15 14 12 11 10 6 3 1 Course Points Guide With over 100 points we would recommend a student to take four AS subjects or an equivalent combination of AS level and Applied A levels. With 120 points or more, it is possible to take up to five AS levels, after careful discussion with the Head of Sixth Form. With 90 99 points we would recommend a student to take three AS subjects or an equivalent combination of AS level and Applied A levels. With 80-90 points students can only be considered on advanced courses where they have achieved the required course entry grades. See also separate notes on the Applied Pathway. Below 80 points: Governors will NOT offer places to students who achieve below 80 points except in the most exceptional circumstances. Cases are reviewed individually. Full consideration is given as to whether a full programme of study can be offered, based on the student s subject choices and their GCSE grades against the subject entry requirements.
GCSE GRADE REQUIREMENTS FOR EACH SUBJECT SUBJECT MINIMUM GCSE GRADE REQUIREMENTS APPLIED SCIENCE Science B Maths 4 English 4 ART & DESIGN Art B Work portfolio Aptitude ART & DESIGN: GRAPHICS Art/Graphics B Work portfolio Aptitude ART & DESIGN: PHOTOGRAPHY Photography B Work portfolio Aptitude BIOLOGY** Science BB Maths 5 Biology exam paper BUSINESS STUDIES English 5 Maths 4 CHEMISTRY** Science BB Maths 5 Chemistry exam paper DRAMA & THEATRE STUDIES English 5 Drama (if B Aptitude previously studied) DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY: Appropriate background course TEXTILES ECONOMICS Maths 5 English 5 B B ENGLISH LITERATURE 6 in English Language and 5 in English Literature or 5 in English Language and 6 in English Literature FRENCH French B FOOD AND NUTRITION Appropriate background course and advantageous to have C or above in Food, Biology or PE GEOGRAPHY Geography B HISTORY History B English Language 5 IFS FINANCE English 4 Maths 4 MATHS** Maths Higher Minimum of 6 but preferably 7 Tier FURTHER MATHS** Maths Higher 7 Tier MEDIA STUDIES English 4 Language MUSIC BTEC Music B PHYSICAL EDUCATION PE theory paper B Science B PHYSICS** Science BB Maths 6 Physics exam paper PRODUCT DESIGN Appropriate background course. Work portfolio of 2D and 3D work B PSYCHOLOGY English 5 Science B Maths 5 Language PHILOSOPHY & ETHICS (RS) English 5 RS (if studied B Language previously) SOCIOLOGY English 4 Maths 4 Science C SPANISH Spanish B ** If a student wishes to take more than one Science subject or one or more Science subjects and Maths, they are required to achieve at least a 7 in Maths or an A grade in Science.
3. APPLICATION PROCESS AND TIMESCALE An Open Evening for prospective Sixth Form students is held in late February each year. This year it is Thursday 23 rd February at 6.15pm with a presentation at 7.15pm in the school hall. An application form can be obtained from the school. The closing date for applications each year is 1 st June so that courses can be organised. However, applications received after this date will still be considered. Offers of places will not be made until the outcome of GCSE results are known on GCSE results day in August. External applicants must advise the school immediately their results are known on GCSE results day (24 th August 2017). The Admissions Committee will meet on the morning following results day and offer letters will be sent out that day. 4. OVERSUBSCRIPTION CRITERIA In the event of receiving more applications which fulfil the entry criteria than places available, the oversubscription criteria to be used will be on the basis of the applicants gaining the highest number of points. In the event of more than one applicant having the same number of points the tie breaker will be that of proximity of the student s home to the school measured by the shortest distance. This is to be a straight line to the Founder s Stone from the nearest boundary point of the student s home. 5. RIGHT OF APPEAL Where a Sixth Form applicant has been refused a place at the school, parents will be advised of their right to appeal against the decision of the Governing Body to an Independent Appeal Panel convened by Oxford Diocese. The right of appeal will apply to students currently attending the school but seeking entry to the Sixth Form and also to external applicants. 6. EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES In dealing with applications for admission Governors will have full regard to equal opportunities legislation. 7. NAMED CONTACT All initial enquiries about admission to the Sixth Form should be made to Miss McIver, Head of Sixth Form, at Waddesdon CE School (01296-651382 or office@waddesdonschool.com). Additionally further information, including information about the appeals process, can also be sought from the Clerk to the Governors, Mrs Goodwin, by contacting the school by telephone.
8. APPLIED PATHWAY In addition to the above admissions criteria in relation to choices of A level subjects, Governors have also agreed to the introduction of a recently developed Applied Pathway for students who wish to continue their studies in only two applied subjects from a specially subscribed list. To be considered, students must have fallen within the 80-90 points range and have the correct grade requirements for the subjects below. Any student applying for Sixth Form study in this range for these subjects normally only take two subjects from this specific list: IFS Certificate and Diploma in Financial Studies Food and Nutrition Product Design Textiles Music BTEC Art & Design Art Graphics Photography Once students have settled on their courses, the school will organise relevant work experience for the student to enhance their studies if appropriate. The overall admission number for the Sixth Form remains unaffected by the Applied Pathway. Priority will be given to those students doing three or four A levels..
THE APPLICATION PROCESS APPLICATION FORM All students, internal and external, will need to complete an application form for a place in the Waddesdon Sixth Form. Applicants should be aware that the school does have high expectations of all its Sixth Form students. These form part of the contract all students and their parents sign on admission. Please read the contract carefully. The decision students are about to make will have a profound effect on their future - it should only be taken following careful consideration of all the options. Students need to talk to as many people as possible: parents, teachers and, if possible, current Sixth Form students. We would appreciate an early return of the Sixth Form application forms so that we can gauge the level of interest in the various courses on offer. Late applications after 1 st June will, of course, continue to be accepted. SIXTH FORM OPEN EVENING AND CONSULTATIONS This takes place on Thursday 23 rd February from 6.15pm, when the school will be open for prospective Sixth Form students, giving them an opportunity to speak to current Sixth Form students as well as teaching staff. At 7.15pm that evening, there will then be a formal presentation in the school hall, for all parents and students who are interested in finding out more about the Sixth Form at Waddesdon. Individual consultations will then be arranged for all applicants and their parents to discuss the choices made, once application forms have been received after Open Evening. GCSE RESULTS AND OFFER LETTERS The school will be open on Thursday 24 th August when students will have the opportunity to collect their results and discuss their future plans with tutorial staff. External applicants should contact the school with their results as soon as possible on that day so that offer letters can be issued. This can be done by e-mail, telephone or visit; staff will be in school to answer queries. No formal offer of a place will be made until the GCSE results have been announced on Thursday 24 th August. Offer letters will be sent to successful applicants who have met the admission criteria on Friday 25 th August by first class post. The Governors Sixth Form Admission Panel will meet on that date to review those students who narrowly missed the points score or those with specific abilities and needs. Parents who are unhappy with the school s decision not to admit their son/daughter have the right of appeal.
SIXTH FORM ENROLMENT The school will be open for final Sixth Form Enrolment on Friday 1 st September between 9.00am and 1pm. It is important that students attend Enrolment in person so that they can discuss their choices with a member of staff. In exceptional circumstances, students can telephone in on Enrolment Day if they speak to the Head of Sixth Form in advance to arrange this. Term will begin at 8.30am on Wednesday 6 th September 2017 with a one-day induction course, when students meet their new form tutor and there are a series of activities to help students to get to know each other and to settle into Sixth Form life. ALL students are expected to attend all aspects of the induction course. Timetabled lessons will commence on Thursday 7 th September. SIXTH FORM FOUNDATION DAYS, Wednesday 5 th July and Thursday 6 th July 2017. These will be full timetabled days in school and will be considered as the first days of the students A level courses, should students be accepted following their results. ALL APPLICANTS WILL BE EXPECTED TO ATTEND. Teaching will begin and work issued in some subjects. This work has to be completed during the long summer break. If a student wishes to change a choice of subject after Foundation Days, they should find out if any summer work is required for their new choice. In exceptional circumstances, if a student is unable to attend Foundation Days, he/she should ring the school to find out if any work is required in their subjects for September. These are VITALLY IMPORTANT DAYS and have been introduced to try to help bridge the gap between GCSE and AS level. SIXTH FORM RE-SITS Should a student wish to re-sit an AS unit to improve their grade in subjects where this is possible, then the school will require them to pay the entry fee. The school offers GCSE Maths and English Language re-sit examinations. Students who have not achieved GCSE English or Maths at grade 5 will be required to attend support lessons and will be re-entered for GCSE exams. These GCSE resit options are included in the Option Blocks and it is our hope that every Sixth Form student will have achieved these qualifications, at grade 5 or above, by the time they leave us at the end of Year 13.
SIXTH FORM CONTRACT September 2017 July 2018 The contract outlines the commitment between you and the Head of Sixth Form when entering Waddesdon Church of England School. The school will provide the necessary teaching and support to enable you to achieve academic success. In addition, tutorial support, careers advice and a range of enrichment opportunities will be made available. As a Sixth Form student, you will be expected to have a responsible attitude towards the school and your work. We expect: Punctual attendance at registration periods and timetabled lessons A certified attendance record of at least 90%. This is a pre-requirement for examination entrance. Parents/Guardians will be advised on a termly basis if attendance falls below this level Constructive use of study and non-directed time Students to set an example to younger members of the school and to demonstrate a commitment to the community Full involvement in the life of the school Meeting all published deadlines. Students must submit work of a standard acceptable to subject tutors within the published deadlines. Learning progress will be assessed on completion of relevant coursework; this should be submitted on time and to an acceptable standard. Students to remain on school premises except at lunchtimes in Year 13. Prior approval is required from a member of staff to obtain an exeat. As a member of the Waddesdon Sixth Form, you will be expected to maintain a high standard of personal presentation by observing the Sixth Form Dress Code. For boys, this means wearing a suit with a shirt and tie. For girls, this means wearing a trouser suit, suit skirt and jacket, with a shirt or plain top or a suit dress and jacket. Skirts and dresses must be an appropriate length and style for school as deemed by the Head of Sixth Form. Facial piercings and excessive jewellery and for boys and girls are not allowed. Young men must not grow facial hair unless for religious observance. I have read, understand and accept the terms of the contract. SIGNED: NAME:.. (BLOCK CAPITALS) SIGNATURE:.. DATE: PARENT:. DATE: SIGNED ON BEHALF OF THE SCHOOL: HEAD OF SIXTH FORM:.. DATE:
A LEVEL RESULTS 2016 We are incredibly proud of our students A level results which you can see in the table below. We are delighted that overall 55% of grades were A*-B and nearly 9 out of 10 grades were C and above. The A level Performance System (Alps) analysis of our students performance in relation to schools success across the country was outstanding for both AS and A2. Entries A* A B C D E U Art & Design Graphics 7 3 2 1 1 0 0 0 Art & Design 7 2 2 2 0 1 0 0 Art and Design Photography 6 1 0 1 2 2 0 0 Biology 19 2 1 6 5 5 0 0 Business (Single) 35 0 9 16 4 4 1 1 Business (Double) 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Chemistry 8 0 2 2 2 2 0 0 Communication Studies 18 0 7 9 2 0 0 0 D&T Product Design 6 0 0 1 2 2 0 1 D&T Textiles Technology 4 0 1 0 1 2 0 0 Drama 10 1 0 4 0 5 0 0 Economics 7 0 2 1 1 1 1 1 Engineering 9 0 2 3 1 2 1 0 English Literature 25 1 6 9 7 2 0 0 French 3 0 1 0 1 1 0 0 General Studies 9 0 0 4 3 2 0 0 Geography 14 0 1 4 8 1 0 0 Health & Social Care 9 0 0 2 2 2 3 0 History 16 0 3 4 4 5 0 0 Information Technology 9 0 0 5 2 2 0 0 Mathematics (Further) 5 0 3 0 1 1 0 0 Mathematics 15 4 2 3 0 6 0 0 Music BTEC 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Physics 9 0 2 3 1 1 1 1 Psychology 22 1 5 7 5 3 0 1 Philosophy and Ethics 22 0 3 4 9 5 1 0 Spanish 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 Sport/PE Studies 7 1 1 1 0 4 0 0
AS/A LEVEL SUBJECT DESCRIPTIONS
SIXTH FORM SUBJECT DESCRIPTIONS Students can only opt for one subject in each option block. Biology, Business Studies, English, Philosophy & Ethics and Psychology appear in more than one option block. In choosing subjects, students should consider the grade requirements advised and also think about what they want to do in the future. Students are also reminded that in the reformed A level subjects, if they decided to carry the subject onto A2 in Year 13, the AS result will not count towards their final A level result. Please note that Ofqual/QCA have not finalised certain courses at the time of publication. All course descriptions are presented in good faith but may be subject to unavoidable change.
APPLIED SCIENCE AQA Specification; Certificate TVQ01028, Extended Certificate TVQ01029 The Science department at Waddesdon CE School follows the AQA Syllabus for Applied Science. This course is designed to provide students with a balanced coherent study of basic science concepts. Students will be able to devise and plan experimental and investigative work, and interpret, explain, evaluate and communicate the results of these. Students will also gain an awareness of the ethical, environmental, technological and economic aspects of the subject and the role of Science in the modern world. The course is a level three qualification; the Certificate is the equivalent to an AS level and the Extended Certificate to that of a full A level. Students will be graded as Pass, Merit, Distinction or Distinction*. The course prepares students to progress into further or higher education, and to follow applied science courses such as Nursing, Forensics, Sports Science or Biomedical Science. The course will also prepare students to enter employment where knowledge of Science would be useful and to develop transferable skills such as written and oral communication, team work, ability to work in an analytical, logical, precise and accurate manner, and to analyse and evaluate data effectively. What examinations will I have to take to get my qualification? Teaching Units Certificate Unit 1: Key Concepts in Science Written exam of 1hr 30 minutes The aim of this unit is that learners develop an understanding of key concepts in science and its applications, so that they can apply these key concepts to vocational situations and contexts. Topics to be covered: Cells Transport The heart Homeostasis Respiration Photosynthesis Atomic Structure Periodic Table Amount of Substance Bonding Enthalpy Energy and efficiency Electricity and circuits Dynamics Unit 2: Applied experimental techniques Portfolio work; Internally assessed The aim of this unit is to introduce learnings to new experimental techniques that reinforce their learning from Unit 1.
Experimental contexts to be covered: Rate of respiration Lighting dependent reaction Volumetric analysis Colorimetric analysis Resistivity Specific Heat Capacity Unit 3: Science in the Modern World Written exam of 1hr 30 minutes based on pre-released material The aim of this unit is to build on the applied contexts explored by learners to enable them to analyse and evaluate scientific information, to develop critical thinking skills and to understand the use of the media to communicate scientific ideas and theories. Learners will develop an understanding of how science is used in organisations and of the roles and responsibilities of their scientifically-qualified staff. Teaching Units Extended Certificate Unit 4: The Human Body Written exam of 1 hr 30 minutes The aim of this unit is that learners develop an understanding of human anatomy and physiology. Topics to be covered: The digestive System Musculoskeletal System Oxygen in the blood Nervous system Nerve Impulses Unit 5: Investigating Science Portfolio work; Internally assessed The aim of this unit is to provide learners with an opportunity to undertake the role of a research scientist, following standard procedures to complete a scientific investigation. Unit 6b Medical Physics Portfolio work; Internally assessed This unit is designed to give learners an understanding of some of the key areas in modern medical physics. It will allow them to look at the scientific basis for modern diagnostic and therapeutic techniques and evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of a range of methods of diagnosing and/ or treating different conditions. Applied Science is a varied course, in which learners will lean on a wide variety of skills from a range of subjects. As such, students will be expected to have gained a C in both Core and Additional Science (or in all three of Biology, Chemistry and Physics), and a 4 in English and Maths. Students must be prepared to work independently to write their portfolios and therefore must be self-motivated, dedicated students.
ART & DESIGN: GRAPHIC COMMUNICATION OCR Code: H202, AS / H602, A level What do I need to know or be able to do before taking this or these courses? A good grade at GCSE in either Graphics or Art and Design (B or better) is an essential entry requirement for the course. You must possess a Graphic aptitude, demonstrating good drawing ability, layout skills and an awareness of Graphic style. You will need to also show creative flair and individuality with your ideas. A large part of the course is computer based. You should also be aware that a practical subject such as this is time consuming and is suitable for those who are committed to study outside of lessons and demonstrate good time management skills. External students will be required to submit a portfolio of work at or before their consultation to be seen by the Graphics teachers. They are advised to contact the Head of Art to discuss the requirements of the portfolio. What will I learn on this AS and A level course? Whether you study the AS and/or A level courses, the approach to the courses are very similar. The A2 goes deeper and naturally the standards are more challenging. Students will experience illustration, advertising, packaging, computer graphics and television. State of the art facilities will help to enhance the curriculum delivery. Use of professional digital cameras, Apple mac computers, A3 colour laser printers, graphics tablets and industry standard software will also be available. Students will explore relevant images, artefacts and resources relating to a range of design styles from the past and from recent times. This will be integral to the investigating and making process. Their responses to these examples must be shown through practical and critical activities, which demonstrate the candidates' understanding of different styles, genres and traditions. All work produced will need to be presented to a high standard. As such, students will be taught effective methods of display. For the AS qualification, there is no coursework component and in the autumn term students learn new knowledge and skills that steps up from GCSE to AS level in preparation for the external assignment which is the main component of the qualification. For A level, much time is devoted to a coursework component called the Personal Study. Here students pursue and explore at a high level an area of interest over a period of about sixth months building upon and linking to the knowledge, skills and understanding developed at AS level. This is then followed an externally set assignment. What examinations will I have to take? Advanced Subsidiary (AS) Externally Set Assignment 10 hours 100% of the total AS marks This unit is set by OCR, centre-assessed and moderated by OCR. The Externally Set Assignment offers a choice of topics that have been created by OCR. Students choose one starting point to
investigate and develop. The assignment is in two parts: a preparatory period where candidates carry out their initial research and investigations and identify designers and craftspeople whose work they wish to make connections with; and a timed 10-hour unaided test where candidates are required to respond to their initial investigations and plan further developments and make design outcomes. Once students start the 10-hour period they will not be allowed to work on the preparatory work. Advanced Level (A2) The full A level qualification is made up of the two units studied at Advanced level. The approach to work builds upon the structure and approach of the AS course but is totally separate from it. Component 1 Coursework Personal Study 60% of the total A level marks The coursework is centre-assessed and moderated by OCR. Students are required to conduct a practical investigation, into an idea, issue, concept or theme, supported by written material (related study). The focus of the investigation must be identified independently by the student and must lead to a finished outcome or a series of related finished outcomes. The written element must be between 1000 and 3000 words and link to the practical work made in the investigation. The investigation should be a coherent, in-depth study that demonstrates the student s ability to construct and develop a sustained line of reasoning from an initial starting point to a final realisation. Component 2 Externally Set Assignment 15 hrs 40% of the total A level marks A range of questions is set by OCR, centre-assessed and moderated by OCR. Following receipt of the OCR paper students should consider the starting points and select one. Preparatory work should be presented in any suitable format, such as mounted sheets, design sheets, sketchbooks, workbooks, journals and models Candidates have a 15-hour Controlled Test. Once students start the 15-hour period they will not be allowed to work on the preparatory work. What could I go on to do at the end of my course? There are many careers in Graphic Design. Most of these require further study at an art school, further education college or university. At present, some students wishing to take Graphic Design further will go onto do a one year Foundation course at an art college or college of further education before applying to degree courses in more specialist areas of design. Alternatively, some students gain direct entry onto a degree course in Graphics. Many may go directly into work in such fields as advertising, marketing, design, publishing and the media.
ART & DESIGN: ART, CRAFT & DESIGN OCR Code: H200, AS / H600, A level What do I need to know or be able to do before taking this course? You will need a GCSE (B or A Grade) in Art and Design. You should have an aptitude for the subject, demonstrating creative skills and an aptitude to draw. You should have an understanding of the basic elements of art colour, tone, form and so on, and also some understanding of the place of art, craft and design in the world its history and its purpose. AS/A level Art is not an easy option and you should be prepared to work hard at developing your abilities and devoting a substantial amount of time to the subject. External students will be required to submit a portfolio of work at or before their consultation to be seen by the Art teachers. They are advised to contact the Head of Art to discuss the requirements of the portfolio. What will I learn on this AS and A level Course? Whether you study the AS only, or AS and A2 courses, the approach to the courses are very similar. The A2 goes deeper and naturally the standards are more challenging. Students will be introduced to a variety of experiences exploring a range of two and three-dimensional media, processes and techniques. They will explore relevant images, artefacts and resources relating to a range of art, craft and design, from the past and from recent times, including European and non-european examples. This will be integral to the investigating and making process. Their responses to these examples must be shown through practical and critical activities, which demonstrate the candidates understanding of different styles, genres and traditions. Students will explore drawing using a variety of methods and media on a variety of scales. Underpinning their work should be the use of sketchbooks/workbooks/journals. Students are required to work in at least two of the following areas of art, craft and design. They may explore overlapping areas and combinations of areas: Fine Art Graphic Design Textiles Three-Dimensional Design Photography For the AS qualification, there is no coursework component and in the autumn term students learn new knowledge and skills that steps up from GCSE to AS level in preparation for the external assignment which is the main component of the qualification. For A level much time is devoted to a coursework component called the Personal Study. Here students pursue and explore at a high level an area of interest over a period of about sixth months building upon and linking to the knowledge, skills and understanding developed at AS level. This is then followed an externally set assignment.
What examinations will I have to take? Advanced Subsidiary (AS) Externally Set Assignment 10 hours 100% of the total AS marks This unit is set by OCR, centre-assessed and moderated by OCR. The Externally Set Assignment offers a choice of topics that have been created by OCR. Students choose one starting point to investigate and develop. The assignment is in two parts: a preparatory period where candidates carry out their initial research and investigations and identify artists, designers and craftspeople whose work they wish to make connections with; and a timed 10-hour unaided test where candidates are required to respond to their initial investigations and plan further developments and make design outcomes. Once students start the 10-hour period they will not be allowed to work on the preparatory work. Advanced Level (A2) The full A level qualification is made up of the two units studied at Advanced level. The approach to work builds upon the structure and approach of the AS course but is totally separate from it. Component 1 Coursework Personal Study 60% of the total A level marks The coursework is centre-assessed and moderated by OCR. Students are required to conduct a practical investigation, into an idea, issue, concept or theme, supported by written material (related study). The focus of the investigation must be identified independently by the student and must lead to a finished outcome or a series of related finished outcomes. The written element must be between 1000 and 3000 words and link to the practical work made in the investigation. The investigation should be a coherent, in-depth study that demonstrates the student s ability to construct and develop a sustained line of reasoning from an initial starting point to a final realisation. Component 2 Externally Set Assignment 15 hrs 40% of the total A level marks A range of questions is set by OCR, centre-assessed and moderated by OCR. Following receipt of the OCR paper students should consider the starting points and select one. Preparatory work should be presented in any suitable format, such as mounted sheets, design sheets, sketchbooks, workbooks, journals, models and maquettes. Candidates have a 15-hour Controlled Test. Once students start the 15-hour period they will not be allowed to work on the preparatory work. What could I go on to do at the end of my course? There are many careers in art, craft and design. Most of these require further study at an art school, further education college or university. At present, many students wishing to take art, craft or design further will go on to do a one year Foundation course at an art college or college of further education before applying to degree courses in more specialist areas of art and design. The educational climate is though changing and so increasing numbers are entering degree courses without the Foundation course. Many may go directly into work in such fields as advertising, marketing, design, architecture, publishing and the media.
ART & DESIGN: PHOTOGRAPHY OCR Code: H203, AS / H603, A level What do I need to know or be able to do before taking this course? GCSE (B or A Grade) in Photography is preferable, but students who have not followed the course will be welcome, subject only to a portfolio consultation with the Head of Art. You should have an aptitude for the subject, demonstrating creative skills and an ability to compose an image. You should have an understanding of the basic elements of photography depth of field, light value, law of thirds, aperture, shutter speed, bracketing and so on, and also some understanding of the place of photography in the world its history and its purpose. You should be prepared to work hard at developing your abilities and devoting a substantial amount of time to the subject. Students who have not followed the course previously will be required to submit a portfolio of work at or before their consultation to be seen by the Photography teachers. They are advised to contact the Head of Art to discuss the requirements of the portfolio. What will I learn on this AS and A level Course? Whether you study the AS only, or AS and A2 courses, the approach to the courses are very similar. The A2 goes deeper and naturally the standards are more challenging. Students will be introduced to a variety of photographic experiences, media, processes and techniques. They will explore practical and critical/contextual work in one or more areas including portraiture, landscape photography, still-life photography, documentary photography, photojournalism, experimental imagery, photographic installation, video, television and film. For the AS qualification there is no coursework component and in the autumn term students learn new knowledge and skills that steps up from GCSE to AS level in preparation for the external assignment which is the main component of the qualification. For A level, much time is devoted to a coursework component called the Personal Study. Here students pursue and explore at a high level an area of interest over a period of about sixth months building upon and linking to the knowledge, skills and understanding developed at AS level. This is then followed an externally set assignment. What examinations will I have to take? Advanced Subsidiary (AS) Externally Set Assignment 10 hours 100% of the total AS marks This unit is set by OCR, centre-assessed and moderated by OCR. The Externally Set Assignment offers a choice of topics that have been created by OCR. Students choose one starting point to investigate and develop. The assignment is in two parts: a preparatory period where candidates carry out their initial research and investigations and identify artists, designers and craftspeople whose work they wish to make connections with; and a timed 10-hour unaided test where candidates are required to respond to their initial investigations and plan further developments and make design outcomes. Once students start the 10-hour period they will not be allowed to work on the preparatory work.
Advanced Level (A2) The full A level qualification is made up of the two units studied at Advanced level. The approach to work builds upon the structure and approach of the AS course but is totally separate from it. Component 1 Coursework Personal Study 60% of the total A level marks The coursework is centre-assessed and moderated by OCR. Students are required to conduct a practical investigation, into an idea, issue, concept or theme, supported by written material (related study). The focus of the investigation must be identified independently by the student and must lead to a finished outcome or a series of related finished outcomes. The written element must be between 1000 and 3000 words and link to the practical work made in the investigation. The investigation should be a coherent, in-depth study that demonstrates the student s ability to construct and develop a sustained line of reasoning from an initial starting point to a final realisation. Component 2 Externally Set Assignment 15 hours 40% of the total A level marks A range of questions is set by OCR, centre-assessed and moderated by OCR. Following receipt of the AQA paper students should consider the starting points and select one. Preparatory work should be presented in any suitable format, such as mounted sheets, journals or portfolios. Candidates have a 15-hour Controlled Test. Once students start the 15-hour period they will not be allowed to work on the preparatory work. What could I go on to do at the end of my course? There are many careers in photography and film. Most of these progression routes require further study at an art school, further education college or university. Specialised courses are available. Others may go directly into work in such fields as advertising or a commercial photographic studio.