Sixth Form Course Guide 2018 Entry
Dear Applicant, Success at Key Stage 5 is about attracting the right student to the right course. At Chestnut Grove Academy we have produced this booklet to help students, and their families, select appropriate pathways to unlock their futures. Each page contains information about courses which we will hopefully be able to offer within the Sixth Form next academic year. This will be dependent upon the popularity of the course, staffing limitations, timetabling constraints and any further developments in the reforms occurring nationally in post 16 Education. In such a changing landscape, the purpose of this booklet is to identify our likely provision for 2018-2019. The structure of each course is clearly outlined with specific guidance about the type of qualification which will be attained, any possible entry requirements which must be met, the method of assessment and the number of lessons per week a student can expect to be taught. I hope this will prove useful in guiding candidates appropriately. A Level Reforms: With recent reforms to A Level coming in three separate waves, it has proved difficult to provide a course structure for some subjects where new specifications have not been agreed by exam boards at the time of writing this publication. However, we know our students and our staffing expertise, and feel this booklet provides some opportunity for a discussion about course suitability. At all times we endeavour to put the needs of the students first and will be undertaking a full curriculum review in light of what students are opting for. At the interview stage in January, each applicant will have a clearer idea of subjects definitely running and a full discussion with either the Head of Sixth Form or Deputy Head of Sixth Form about the feasibility of their preferred choices, based upon predicted grades at GCSE. Following the interview stage, each applicant will be invited to attend a compulsory Induction Programme later in the year where our ethos and expectations will be explained in greater detail, including those relating to attendance and punctuality. Links to Parents: Links with our parents are maintained via the Sixth Form tutor team and via our robust monitoring and reporting systems, which track student progress over time against Academy targets, based on prior attainment at Key Stage 4. Parents Evenings continue into the Sixth Form and provide an opportunity for parents to speak with subject staff. In addition, the Sixth Form Parent-Tutor Evening held in October to sign off the Probationary Passport ensures a dialogue between home and the Academy to ease the transition from year 11 into year 12. This also encourages students to develop the routines of study necessary to become effective independent learners. Ethos: The Academy s ethos of inclusivity and support is wedded to creating an intellectually exciting and socially challenging experience for all. Our moral purpose is to produce intellectually curious young adults, equipped to deal with the demands of a fast changing world and confident enough to play a full and active part as citizens within it.
Available Pathways: Students may choose from the following options: 4 A Levels and an EPQ (Extended Project Qualification) 3 A Levels and an EPQ 3 A Levels A mixed diet of A Levels and BTEC Level 3 qualifications A specific BTEC Level 3 route A specific BTEC Level 2 route, with retake GCSE Maths and/or GCSE English where needed. Entry requirements: For most A Level or BTEC Level 3 courses we would expect a student to have achieved at least 5 A*-C passes at GCSE, including English and Maths. Applicants for these subjects will preferably have at least a grade B in the subject at GCSE or Merit at BTEC Level 2, although for some subjects like Mathematics, Further Mathematics and Physics the expectation may be even higher. Deadline for receipt of completed applications forms: The deadline for completed application forms to be returned by is Friday 15 th December 2017. Applications received after this date will be considered on a case by case basis, with names added to a waiting list. Please return all completed applications forms to The Sixth Form Administrator. I hope you will carefully consider what we have to offer at Chestnut Grove Academy and that you will submit an early application. Jonathan Taylor Assistant Head/Head of Sixth Form
Year 12 BTEC Level 2 and Retake GCSE English and Maths Course Information
English Language GCSE Retake LEVEL OF ENTRY Edexcel GCSE English Language Grade 3 or below in both GCSE English Language and English Literature 100% written examination on unseen texts 3 lessons per week November entry, followed by June entry GCSE Paper 1 Fiction 40% GCSE Paper 2 Non-Fiction 60% Analysis of texts: tight language, form and structure An appreciation of literature and culture How to structure an essay and argument Ability to marshal an argument effectively on paper. Ability to write with precision, coherency and clarity of expression. Ability to use secondary reading to aid and develop interpretation. It is a core qualification for all future careers and entry into the workplace and education. It is crucial for all subjects.
LEVEL OF ENTRY Mathematics GCSE Retake Edexcel GCSE in Mathematics Grade 3 or below in GCSE Mathematics 100% written examination 3 lessons per week November entry, followed by June entry GCSE Paper 1 Non-Calculator 1/3 GCSE Paper 2 Calculator 1/3 GCSE Paper 3 Problem Solving 1/3 Problem-solving Deductive reasoning Numerical reasoning Abstract thought Critical analysis Data analysis Any university or further education course It is crucial for most subjects.
Business: Level 2 First Award LEVEL OF ENTRY Edexcel BTEC Level 2 First Award in Business 1 GCSE equivalent Less than 5 C grades at GCSE Coursework & written examination 1 year, with 5 lessons per week Level 2 Unit 1 Enterprise in the 25% business world Level 2 Unit 2 Finance for business 25% Level 2 Unit 3 Promoting a brand 25% Level 2 Unit 4 Principles of customer service 25% Communication skills Presentation skills Mathematical skills Time management skills Organisational skills On successful completion of the qualification, students can progress to employment and/or continue their study in the same, or related vocational area.the First Award in Business enables students to learn vital skills which can be used for work in the business environment. It provides students with an insight into working world and provides them with knowledge which would be vital to students hoping to pursue a career in various business fields such as retail and marketing. ICT Sport Travel and Tourism
ICT: Level 2 First Award LEVEL OF ENTRY Edexcel BTEC Level 2 First Award in ICT 1 GCSE equivalent Less than 5 C grades at GCSE Coursework & written examination 1 year, with 5 lessons per week Level 2 Unit 1 The Online World 25% Level 2 Unit 3 A Digital Portfolio 25% Level 2 Unit 4 Creating Digital 25% Animation Level 2 Unit 6 Creating Digital Graphics 25% Knowledge and understanding about the way computers have changed our world The ability to prepare, plan and put together a quality animation project Knowledge and understanding about risks associated with IT An appreciation of how computer graphics permeate our lives Software development IT Support / Business support Hardware engineer / network technician Games design / Apps development Management consulting IT project management Web development System administration Business Sport Travel and Tourism
Year 12 and Year 13 A Level and Level 3 Vocational Course Information
Applied Science AQA Extended Certificate in Applied Science 1 A level equivalent LEVEL OF ENTRY 5+ 9-5 passes at GCSE, including at least 5-5 grade in Combined Science, or two grade 5s in Triple Science Written examination 50% and coursework 50% 2 years (1 for Certificate), 5 lessons per week Level Unit Title Form of Grade Weighting assessment Certificate Unit 1 Key concepts Examination 1/6 Certificate Unit 2 Practical scientific Portfolio 1/6 procedures & techniques Certificate Unit 3 Science in the modern Examination: 1/6 world pre release material Extended Unit 4 Human Biology Examination 1/6 Certificate Extended Unit 5 Investigating Science Portfolio 1/6 Certificate Extended Certificate Option Unit Choice between: -Microbiology chosen by present cohort -Medical physics -Organic Chemistry Portfolio 1/6 Problem solving Application of mathematical techniques How to present data Ability to evaluate & draw conclusions from data Practical techniques Health care Forensics Sports Science Technician Computing Physical education
Art Edexcel AS and A level Art LEVEL OF ENTRY 5+ 9-5 passes at GCSE, preferably with grade 6 in GCSE Art Examination and coursework 1 year AS level, with 5 lesson per week 2 year A level, with 5 lessons per week AS level Unit 1 (Coursework) Reflect and Distort An exploration of 60% AS level (30% A level) materials and processes AS level Unit 2 (Exam) Externally set exam question 40% AS level (20% A level) A2 (A level) Unit 3 (Coursework) Personal Investigation 60% A level A2 (A level) Unit 4 (Exam) Externally set exam question (30% A level) 40% A level (20% A level) Knowledge and understanding of contextual studies Ability to work with a range of artistic processes and techniques Ability to write with analytically about artists work Ability to develop personal investigations form a range of different sources Ability to explore the limitations of processes and ideas through experimentation and testing Set designer (film/theatre) Architect Interior designer Artist Teaching Fashion industry Illustrator Games designer Graphic designer WHICH SUBJECTS COMPLEMENT WELL WITH THIS COURSE? English, History, DT, Film Studies, Media Studies, Music, Performing Arts, Photography
Biology AQA GCE AS & A level Biology LEVEL OF ENTRY 5+ 9-5 passes at GCSE, with at least a grade 6-6 in Combined Science or 2 6 grades in Triple Science including a 6 grade in Biology and a grade 6 in Mathematics Written examination & practical endorsement 1 year AS level, with 5 lesson per week 2 year A level, with 5 lessons per week Level Unit Title AS level Unit 1 Biological molecules AS level Unit 2 Cells AS level Unit 3 Organisms & exchange AS level Unit 4 Genetic information, variation & relationships between organisms A2 (A level) Unit 5 Energy transfers in and between organisms A2 (A level) Unit 6 Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments A2 (A level) Unit 7 Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems A2 (A level) Unit 8 The control of gene expression Problem solving Application of mathematical techniques How to present data Ability to evaluate & draw conclusions from data Practical techniques Zoologist, park warden Environmental work Healthcare Plant scientist War defence Chemistry Maths Physical education
Business: Level 3 Extended Certificate LEVEL OF ENTRY Edexcel BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate in Business 1 A level equivalent 5+ 9-5 passes at GCSE, preferably with a Merit in BTEC Business at level 2 Coursework and written examination 2 years, with 5 lessons per week Level Unit Title Guided Learning Hours Level 3 Unit 1 Exploring Business 90 Level 3 Unit 2 Developing a Marketing Campaign Level 3 Unit 3 Personal Business Finance (external examination) Level 3 Unit 8 Recruitment and Selection Process 90 120 60 Communication skills Presentation skills Mathematical skills Time management skills Organisational skills The BTEC Extended Certificate in Business provides a route to employment into the many diverse areas of business. These could include: roles in specialist areas such as management, marketing, finance, customer service or human resources in large organisations. When combined with other qualifications, the BTEC Extended Certificate is also a route of entry into university. Computing Mathematics Media Studies Sport
Business: Level 3 Diploma LEVEL OF ENTRY Edexcel BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Business 2 A level equivalent 5+ 9-5 passes at GCSE, preferably with a Merit in BTEC Business at level 2 Coursework and written examination 2 years, with10 lessons per week Level Unit Title Guided Learning Hours Level 3 Unit 1 Exploring Business 90 Level 3 Unit 2 Developing a 90 Marketing Campaign Level 3 Unit 3 Personal and Business 120 Finance (external examination) Level 3 Unit 4 Managing an Event 90 Level 3 Unit 5 International Business 90 Level 3 Unit 6 Principles of 120 Management Level 3 Unit 8 Recruitment and 60 Selection in business Level 3 Unit 22 Market Research 60 Communication skills Presentation skills Mathematical skills Time management skills Organisational skills The BTEC Diploma in Business provides a route to employment into the many diverse areas of business. These could include: roles in specialist areas such as management, marketing, finance, customer service or human resources in large organisations. When combined with other qualifications, the BTEC Diploma is also a route of entry into university. Computing Mathematics Media Studies Sport
Chemistry AQA GCE AS & A level Chemistry LEVEL OF ENTRY 5+ 9-5 passes at GCSE, with at least a grade 6-6 in Combined Science or 2 6 grades in Triple Science including a 6 grade in Chemistry and a grade 6 in Mathematics Written examination & practical endorsement 1 year AS level, with 5 lesson per week 2 year A level, with 5 lessons per week Level Unit Title AS level Unit 1 Physical Chemistry AS level Unit 2 Inorganic Chemistry AS level Unit 3 Organic Chemistry A2 (A level) Unit 1 Physical Chemistry A2 (A level) Unit 2 Inorganic Chemistry A2 (A level) Unit 3 Organic Chemistry Problem solving Application of mathematical techniques How to present data Ability to evaluate & draw conclusions from data Practical techniques Doctor/dentist/vet Forensics Pharmacology Biochemistry Toxicologist Mathematics Biology Physics
Core Mathematics LEVEL OF ENTRY AQA Level 3 Certificate in Mathematical Studies 1 AS level equivalent 5+ 9-5 passes at GCSE, preferably with a grade 6 in Mathematics at GCSE 100% written examination 2 years with 5 lessons per week AS level Paper 1 Compulsory Content 50% AS level Paper 2 Option Paper (one of the following) 2A: Statistical Techniques 2B: Critical Path and Risk Analysis 2C: Graphical Techniques 50% Problem-solving Deductive reasoning Numerical reasoning Abstract thought Critical analysis Data analysis Business Accounting Biology/biochemistry Psychology Medicine & nursing Forensics The sciences Psychology Computing Geography
Computing: BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate LEVEL OF ENTRY Edexcel BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate in Computing 1 A level equivalent 5+ 9-5 passes at GCSE, preferably with a Merit in BTEC ICT or a C grade in GCSE Computing Written examination and coursework 2 years, with 5 lessons per week Level Unit Title Guided Learning Hours Level 3 Unit 1 Principles of Computer 120 Science Level 3 Unit 2 Fundamentals of 90 Computer Systems Level 3 Unit 7 IT Systems Security 90 and Encryption Level 3 Unit 15 Website development 60 Computing and Computer Science Mathematical skills to complement your other studies Organisational skills This brand new course is an ideal route in to Computing and Computer Science fields. Upon completion of this course you can either further your learning at University or jump straight in to employment. Computing is also well regarded in other academic subjects such as law, the sciences and medicine as it teaches logical and deep thinking. Business Mathematics Physics
Computer Science: BTEC Level 3 Diploma LEVEL OF ENTRY Edexcel BTEC level 3 Diploma in Computer Science 2 A level equivalent 5+ 9-5 passes at GCSE, preferably with a Merit in BTEC ICT or a C grade in GCSE Computing Written examination and coursework 2 years, with 10 lessons per week Level Unit Title Guided Learning Hours Level 3 Unit 1 Principles of Computer 120 Science Level 3 Unit 3 Planning and 120 management of Computing Projects Level 3 Unit 5 Building Computer 60 Systems Level 3 Unit 6 IT Systems Security 60 Level 3 Unit 15 Website Development 60 Level 3 Unit 18 Database Development 60 Level 3 Unit 22 Systems Analysis and 60 Design Level 3 Unit 24 Software Development 60 Level 3 Unit 26 Programmable devices 60 and controllers Level 3 Unit 28 Computer Forensics 60 Computing and Computer Science Mathematical skills to complement your other studies Organisational skills This brand new 2 A Level equivalent course is an ideal route in to Computing and Computer Science. This course goes in to more academic computer science areas such as programming and computer forensics. Upon completion of this course you can either further your learning at University or jump straight in to employment. Computing is also well regarded in other academic subjects such as law, the sciences and medicine as it teaches logical and deep thinking. Business Mathematics Physics
Design and Technology LEVEL OF ENTRY Edexcel AS and A level Design and Technology 5+ 9-5 passes at GCSE, preferably with a B in GCSE DT Coursework and Written Examinations 2 years, with 5 lessons per week AS Level Component : exam Principles of D&T. 50% AS Level Component 2: nonexamined assessment (coursework) Practical application of technical principles, designing and making principles and specialist knowledge. 50% *A Level in D&T Product Design will involve another exam plus another coursework project. Knowledge and understanding of different areas in D&T (engineering, illustration, product, furniture design etc). Ability to analyse products and work by other designers at a more advanced level. Knowledge and understanding of materials and processes at a more advanced level. Learn and develop design and making skills required for design based courses at university. Engineering Graphic designer Illustrator Architect Product designer Furniture designer Teaching Art Maths Science (especially physics for engineering)
Drama and Theatre Studies AQA AS and A level Drama and Theatre Studies LEVEL OF ENTRY 5+ 9-5 passes at GCSE, preferably with grade 6 at GCSE in Drama or Merit in Performing Arts AS level: Written examination, performance of extract, portfolio evidencing interpretive process and analysis and evaluation of performance A level: Written examination, devised performance, working notebook, performance of extract, reflective report analysing and evaluating theatrical interpretations of extracts 1 year AS level, with 5 lessons per week 2 year A level, with 5 lessons per week AS level Component 1 Interpreting Drama 40% AS AS level Component 2 Process and 60% AS Performance A level Component 1 Drama and Theatre 40% A level A level Component 2 Creating Original Drama A level Component 3 Making Theatre (practical) 30% A level 30% A level Performance, critical analysis, confidence, public speaking Creative problem solving, devising, analysis of a range of play texts Collaboration, team working and leadership Acting skills, communication skills, both oral and written, working under pressure and to deadline Negotiation and direction Performer, Theatre practitioner Theatre related jobs e.g. director, producer, casting director, education Law, Medicine, Teaching, Police, Management, Business and retail, Sales and marketing Local government, Leisure industry, Human Rights, Counsellor / therapist English Literature, Dance, History, Media / Film Studies, Music, Psychology
English Literature Edexcel AS and A level English Literature LEVEL OF ENTRY 5+ 9-5 passes at GCSE, preferably with grade 6 at GCSE in both English Literature and Language 100% written examination at AS level 80% written examination at A level, with 20% coursework 1 year AS level, with 5 lessons per week 2 year A level, with 5 lessons per week AS level Component 1 Poetry and drama 60% (different exam at A level) AS level Component 2 Prose 40% (20% retaken at A level) A level Component 1 Drama 30% A level Component 2 Prose 20% A level Component 3 Poetry 30% A level Component 4 Coursework 20% Analysis of texts: tight language, form and structure An appreciation of literature and culture A richer understanding of the significance of historical contexts Theoretical perspectives: Marxist, feminist, etc. How to structure an essay and argument Ability to marshal an argument effectively on paper. Ability to write with precision, coherency and clarity of expression. Ability to use secondary reading to aid and develop interpretation. Journalism and the media Law Education Communications and public relations Politics, civil service, police, entertainment and local government Which subjects complement this course? History Religious studies Geography Modern foreign languages Psychology
Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) LEVEL OF ENTRY Freestanding qualification worth up to 70 UCAS points Targeted at high achieving students at GCSE, preferably with 6+ grades across subjects 5000 word written report or produce an artefact plus a 1000 word written report 30 guided learning hours in total, plus additional independent research by the student 30 guided learning hours taught element Significant independent research and study Problem solving Critical analysis of sources Constructing logical arguments Decision making, reflection, planning, critical thinking Creativity and tenacity Entry into the Russell Group of universities Any which require project development and execution, resilience and perseverance The EPQ exists for all, no specific subject combinations
Film Studies LEVEL OF ENTRY OCR AS and A level Media Studies 5+ 9-5 passes at GCSE, preferably including GCSE English and Maths 70% written examination and 30% coursework 2 year A level, with 5 lessons per week (no AS exam in Y12) A level Unit 1 Contemporary Lives 35% (examination) A level Unit 2 Development of US 35% Film (examination) A level Unit 3 and 4 Exploring Film Genre (coursework) 30% Research skills Analytical skills Critical thinking Practical skills Team work Leadership Resilience and independence Journalism Education Film Production Film theory Creative industries Media Studies English Language and/or Literature History Art Photography
Further Mathematics Edexcel AS and A level Further Mathematics LEVEL OF ENTRY 5+ 9-5 passes at GCSE, preferably with grade 8 in GCSE Mathematics 100% written examination 1 year AS level, with 5 lessons per week 2 year A level, with 5 lessons per week AS level Paper 1 Core Pure Mathematics 50% AS level Paper 2 Further Mathematics Options two 50% of: Further Pure Maths 1 or 2 Further Mechanics 1 or 2 Further Statistics 1 or 2 Decision Mathematics 1 or 2 A level Paper 1 Core Pure Mathematics 1 25% A level Paper 2 Core Pure Mathematics 2 25% A level Paper 3 Further Mathematics Option 1 one 25% of: Further Pure Maths 1 Further Mechanics 1 Further Statistics 1 Decision Mathematics 1 A level Paper 4 Further Mathematics Option 1 two of: Further Pure Maths 2 Further Mechanics 1 or 2 Further Statistics 1 or 2 Decision Mathematics 1 or 2 25% Problem-solving and deductive reasoning Numerical reasoning Abstract thought Critical analysis and data analysis Accounting Teaching Finance and wealth Management Engineering Natural sciences Software engineering and games development Games development Computing, Further Mathematics, Psychology and the Sciences
LEVEL OF ENTRY Geography AQA AS and A level Geography 5+ 9-5 passes at GCSE (including English and Mathematics), with a minimum grade 6 in GCSE Geography AS level Written examination 100% A level Written examination 80% and coursework (fieldwork investigation) 20% 1 year AS level, with 5 lessons per week 2 year A level, with 5 lessons per week AS level Unit 1 Physical geography and people and the environment 50% AS Level AS level Unit 2 Human geography and geography fieldwork investigation and skills 50% AS Level A level Unit1 Physical geography 40 % A level A level Unit 2 Human geography 40% A level A level Unit 3 Geography fieldwork investigation 20% A level Communication skills Presentation skills Mathematical skills Time management skills Organisational skills Analytical skills Decision making skills Evaluative skills Extended/ report writing skills Cartographer Commercial/residential surveyor Environmental consultant Geographical information systems officer Town planner International aid/development worker Civil Service Biology, English, Mathematics
History LEVEL OF ENTRY Edexcel AS and A level History 5+ 9-5 passes at GCSE, preferably with a grade 6 in History at GCSE Written examination and coursework I year AS level, with 5 lessons per week 2 year A level, with 5 lessons per week AS level Unit 1 Britain transformed, 60% AS 1918-97 AS level Unit 2 The USA, 1955-92: 40% AS conformity and challenge A Level Unit 1 Britain transformed, 30% A level 1918-97 A Level Unit 2 The USA, 1955-92: 20% A level conformity and challenge A Level Unit 3 The British Experience 30% A level of Warfare, 1790-1918 A level Unit 4 Coursework: interpretations of history 20% A level Critical analysis Critical interpretation Communication skills Extended writing skills including referencing and bibliography (at A Level) Organisational skills The critical approach of studying history and broad nature of the subject means that numerous career pathways can be followed; you will find historians in all walks of life. Particular career areas include, but are not limited to: Heritage Industry Law Politics Education Media English Literature Religious Studies Geography Any Modern Foreign Languages
Languages: French, Italian, Spanish LEVEL OF ENTRY Edexcel AS and A level French / Italian / Spanish 5+ 9-5 passes at GCSE, with a minimum of grade 6 at GCSE Written and spoken examination 1 year AS level, with 5 lessons per week 2 year A level, with 5 lessons per week AS level Unit 1 Listening reading and 40% AS translating AS level Unit 2 Written response to 30% AS works and translation AS level Unit 3 Speaking 30% AS A2 (A level) Unit 4 Listening reading and 40% A level translating A2 (A level) Unit 5 Written response to 30% A level works and translation A2 (A level) Unit 6 Speaking 30% A level Ability to communicate confidently, clearly and effectively in the target language for a range of purposes Ability to communicate with speakers of the language Ability to use the target language accurately to express facts and ideas, and to present explanations, opinions and information in both speech and writing Ability to understand and apply the grammatical system and a range of structures in the target language Ability to transfer meaning from English into the target language and/or vice versa. Translating Interpreting Work for international organisations Teaching Journalism and media English History Sociology Music Art
Mathematics A Level Edexcel LEVEL OF ENTRY Edexcel AS and A level Mathematics 5+ 9-5 passes at GCSE and a grade 7 or higher in GCSE Mathematics 100% written examination 1 year AS level, with 5 lessons per week 2 year A level, with 5 lessons per week AS level Paper 1 Pure Mathematics 62.5% AS level Paper 2 Statistics & Mechanics 37.5% A level Paper 1 Pure Mathematics 1 33.33% A level Paper 2 Pure Mathematics 2 33.33% A level Paper 3 Statistics & Mechanics 33.33% Problem-solving Deductive reasoning Numerical reasoning Abstract thought Critical analysis Data analysis Accounting Teaching Finance Wealth Management Engineering Natural sciences Psychology Medicine Business Consultancy Software engineering Games development Construction Further mathematics The sciences Psychology Computing
Media Studies LEVEL OF ENTRY OCR AS and A level Media Studies 5+ 9-5 passes at GCSE, preferably including grade 6 in GCSE English Language / Literature and grade B in Media if taken at GCSE 70% examination and 30% coursework 2 year A level, with 5 lessons per week (no AS exam in Y12) A level Unit 1 Textual Analysis 35% (examination) A level Unit 2 Exploring Media 35% (examination) A level Unit 3 and 4 Creating Media (non exam assessment) 30% Research skills Analytical skills Critical thinking Practical skills Team work Leadership Resilience and independence Journalism Education Marketing Web design Creative industries Film Studies English Language and/or Literature History Art Photography
Music Edexcel AS and A level Music LEVEL OF ENTRY 5+ 9-5 passes at GCSE, preferably with grade 6 at GCSE in Music Externally assessed coursework & examination 1 year AS level, with 5 lessons per week 2 year A level, with 5 lessons per week Access to this course is by audition only. Students must be proven to be Grade 6/7 on their principal study instrument. AS level/a Level Unit 1 Performing 30% AS level/a Level Unit 2 Composing 30% AS level/a Level Unit 3 Appraising 40% Performing 6-8 minute recital Grade 6/7 standard Composing 2 compositions totalling 4 minutes showing a sophisticated understanding of theory and harmony Appraising Analysis of set works, listening exam (2hours), ability to critically examine music and write coherent essays based upon this Composition Listening Performance Rehearsal skills Team work, leadership, independent working skills, critical analysis Performance Composer Music Industry related careers Teaching Performing Arts History English
Music: Level 3 Extended Certificate Edexcel BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate in Music 1 A level equivalent LEVEL OF ENTRY 5+ 9-5 passes at GCSE, preferably with grade 6 at GCSE in Music or Music Technology 2 units internally assessed and 2 units externally assessed 2 years, with 5 hours per week This course is currently structured to be the equivalent of 1 A level. The course content is still subject to OfQual revisions. 4 Units from the following Extended Certificate 360 GLH TOTAL: 4 UNITS 3 MANDATORY UNITS 1. Ensemble Performance Techniques 2. Professional Practice in the Music Industry 3. Creating a Music Product 1 OPTIONAL UNIT Optional Unit (60 GLH) Optional unit from a list specified by Edexcel this can be tailored to suit the learner and play to their strengths. Composition, Listening, Performance, Rehearsal skills, Team work, leadership, independent working skills, critical analysis Music Performance, Composer, Music industry related jobs such as publishing, copyright, A&R Many jobs & universities view accomplishment in Music as a desirable extra as it demonstrates dedication, independent thinking skills, creative problem solving & resilience. Performing Arts, Music, English, History
Performing Arts: Level 3 Extended Certificate Edexcel BTEC level 3 Extended Certificate in Performing Arts 1 A level equivalent LEVEL OF ENTRY 5+ 9-5 passes at GCSE, preferably with grade 6 at GCSE in Drama or a Merit in BTEC Drama at level 2 2 units internally assessed; 2 units externally assessed 2 years, with 5 hours per week Extended Certificate 360 GLH TOTAL: 4 UNITS 3 MANDATORY UNITS 1. Investigating Practitioners Work (90 GLH) 2. Developing Skills and Techniques for Live Performance (90 GLH) 3. Group Performance Workshop (120 GLH) 1 OPTIONAL UNIT Optional Unit (60 GLH) Performance Critical analysis Confidence, public speaking Creative problem solving and devising Variety of skills tailored to each Optional Unit chosen (e.g. specific skills of movement, dance styles, voice, storytelling etc.) Performer Theatre practitioner Theatre related jobs e.g. director, producer, casting director, education Teaching, the police force, management, business and retail Music English Media / Film Studies Business
Philosophy, Beliefs and Ethics (Religious Studies) OCR AS and A level Philosophy, Beliefs and Ethics LEVEL OF ENTRY 5+ 9-5 passes at GCSE, preferably with grade 6 in English and a grade 6 in Religious Studies 100% written examination 1 year AS level, with 5 lessons per week 2 year A level, with 5 lessons per week AS level & A2 level Unit 1 Philosophy of Religion 33.3% AS 33.3% A level AS level & A2 level Unit 2 Religion and Ethics 33.3% AS 33.3% A level AS level & A2 level Unit 3 Developments in religious thought 33.3% AS 33.3% A level Ability to explain and evaluate complex theories and ideas Awareness of different religious and non-religious beliefs Historical context of religion and factors, such as Marxism, that have affected its growth and decline Focus on written communication and analytical skills Discussion and debate skills Moral development as the course is focused on normative ethical theories Abstract and higher-order thinking Medicine Law Politics Academia Civil service Education History English Psychology
Photography LEVEL OF ENTRY Edexcel AS and A level Photography 5+ 9-5 passes at GCSE, preferably with a grade 6 at GCSE in either Art or Photography Written examination and coursework 1 year AS level, with 5 lessons per week 2 year A level, with 5 lessons per week AS level Unit 1 (coursework) Internally set project Portraiture - How have photographers tried to reveal more about their subject than just their appearance? 50% AS level AS level Unit 2 (examination) Externally set exam question 50% AS level A level Unit 3 (coursework) Personal Investigation. 40% A level Students devise their own project question to direct their project into a specific area of interest A level Unit 4 (examination) Externally set exam question 60% A level How to control settings on a camera to suit your intentions To become visually literate - to read images to understand their purpose. Technical skills, how to control a camera, studio and darkroom equipment What the formal elements are how you can utilise them A range of digital and traditional techniques and processes such as Photoshop, photograms, physical manipulation. How to analyse work to understand meaning, purpose and style and how to use research to help you create your own meaningful and considered imagery. Photographer (Fine Art)/Commercial Photographer Set designer (film / theatre) Architect / Interior designer Artist / Illustrator Teaching / Fashion industry WHICH SUBJECTS COMPLEMENT WELL WITH THIS COURSE? English, Sociology, History, DT, Film Studies, Media Studies, Music, Performing Arts
Physics AQA AS and A level Physics LEVEL OF ENTRY 5+ 9-5 passes at GCSE, with at least a grade 6-6 in Combined Science or 2 6 grades in Triple Science including a 6 grade in Physics and a 6 grade in Mathematics Written examination & practical endorsement I year AS level, with 5 lessons per week 2 year A level, with 5 lessons per week Level Unit Title AS level Unit 1 Particles and radiation AS level Unit 2 Waves AS level Unit 3 Mechanics and materials AS level Unit 4 Electricity AS level Unit 5 Further mechanics and thermal physics A level Unit 6 Fields and their consequences A level Unit 7 Nuclear Physics A level Unit 8 Option module (potentially health physics) Problem solving Application of mathematical techniques How to present data Ability to evaluate & draw conclusions from data Practical techniques Engineering Geophysicist Meteorologist Patent attorney Investment analyst Maths Further maths Chemistry
Psychology AQA AS and A level Psychology LEVEL OF ENTRY 5+ 9-5 passes at GCSE, preferably with grade 6 at GCSE in Biology/Double Science and grade 6 in Mathematics 100% written examination 1 year AS level, with 5 lessons per week 2 year A level, with 5 lessons per week AS and A level Paper 1 Paper 1 Introductory topics in Psychology 50% AS level (33.3% A level) AS and A level Paper 2 Paper 2 Psychology in context 50% AS level (33.3% A level) AS and A level Paper 3 Paper 3 Introductory topics in Psychology (33.3% A level) Mathematical and scientific skills Problem-solving and higher-order thinking skills Understanding of a range of factors that affect behaviour Ability to write with precision, coherency and clarity of expression Able to describe, evaluate and apply themes to questions. Psychology Teaching and Education Social Work Mathematics Philosophy, Beliefs and Ethics (Religious Studies) Science
Sport: Level 3 Extended Certificate Edexcel BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate 1 A Level equivalent LEVEL OF ENTRY 5+ 9-5 passes at GCSE, preferably with grade 6 in Science Written examination, controlled assessment and coursework 2 years, with 5 lessons per week Level Unit Title Guided Learning Hours Level 3 Unit 1 Anatomy & Physiology 120 Level 3 Unit 2 Fitness, Training and Programming for Health, Sport 120 and Well Being. Level 3 Unit 3 Professional Development in the Sports Industry. 60 Level 3 Unit 7 Practical Sports Performance 60 Critical thinking and problem solving Communication and presentation skills Self-management and resilience Team work and leadership Reading technical texts and effective writing The qualification is recognised by higher education providers as contributing to meeting admissions requirements for many courses if taken alongside other qualifications. Further training in fitness based qualifications such as personal training / gym instructor Further training in sports based qualifications such as coaching / leadership / officiating Employment in the sports and leisure industry. Biology Business English Mathematics Psychology