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ART A.S. and A2 (Edexcel)
Entry requirement
GCSE Art & Design, grade B or above
GCSE English Language, grade C or above
Course overview
Introduction Fine Art requires students to engage with aesthetic and intellectual concepts through the use of traditional and/or digital media, materials, techniques and processes for the purposes of self-expression. Fine art may be created to communicate ideas and messages about the observed world, to explore personal and cultural identity, society, visual language and technology and helps students to reflect on their place in the world. Course Content Drawing in fine art is an essential part of the development of ideas, students should be able to draw in a variety of ways using a range of tools, materials, techniques and processes, where relevant considering the application and implication of new emerging technologies and their use along with more traditional fine art materials. Contextual Studies Contexts for fine art can be found in a wide range of sources; for example, from historical works in museums, contemporary art shows, local galleries, films, architecture, music, literature, nature and science. Students are required to develop knowledge, skills and understanding through carrying out research that informs their work. They will be required to demonstrate critical and analytical understanding through annotation, discussion and written commentary about their work and the work of others. During the course students will experience some or all of the following disciplines within fine art and will be required to
communicate their ideas through these disciplines. By working across disciplines they will extend their understanding of
the scope of fine art. Some students may focus on one discipline thus gaining a deeper understanding of fine art within one
process.
- Drawing and painting - Printmaking - Sculpture - Photography and lens based media -
Course structure
Component 1 – Personal Investigation, worth 50% of the total qualification This is a personal project of practical work developed from the student’s own starting point to be negotiated with the teacher. Current topics include: identity and culture in portraiture and landscapes. Students develop their work through written research, experimentation with materials and processes, visual research, brainstorming, photography and idea development sessions. Students are expected to complete at least 5 hours of homework each week. The project culminates in the production of a ‘final outcome’ in the form of a painting, sculpture, drawing or print the deadline for this is in January. Component 2 - The Externally Set Assignment, worth 50% of the total qualification This incorporates a preparatory period and a 10 hour sustained exam over 2 days. The theme is set by the exam board and
students develop their own personal work from the theme.
BIOLOGY AS & A2 (OCR Route A)
Entry requirement
As Biology remains an academically challenging and demanding subject the department ask students to achieve
a grade A or B at GCSE Biology and Chemistry or an A or B in the Biology and Chemistry modules for additional
science.
The course builds upon some of the units which students studied at GCSE level, developing the key ideas and
themes with which the students are already familiar. It is recommended that Chemistry A level is taken
alongside Biology however this is not a requirement of the course.
Topics covered and syllabus codes
The AS and A2 specifications can be found at:
http://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/as-a-level-gce-biology-a-h020-h420-from-2015/
At AS Level
Students will study practical skills as well as learning about the foundations of biology which will include cell structure and biochemistry. They will also study modules including biodiversity, disease, exchange and transport. The AS examinations will cover all of this content.
At A2 Level
In the second year of the course the students will build on this knowledge with topic including genetics, nervous system and communication systems in plants and animals. The A2 examinations will cover all topics studied over the two years of the course. Details of the content of each examination can be found at:
http://www.ocr.org.uk/Images/171471-as-a-level-biology-overview.pdf
Examination sessions
AS examinations in Biology will be carried out in the summer (May and June) of year 12 (2017). The AS will not count towards the A2 grade (but will be a stand- alone qualification in its own right if students opt to drop it at the end of year 12.) It will give a very good indication of how the student may fare at A2. A2 examinations will occur in summer of year 13 (2018) and will assess all the work covered across the two years.
BUSINESS STUDIES BTEC NATIONAL LEVEL 3 (Edexcel)
Entry requirement
BTEC Business Studies differs from the A-Level Business Studies route in structure and assessment. The BTEC
National has a vocational approach with students developing their practical management skills rather than
studying the theories behind them.
For students who have studied Business Studies at Key Stage 4 we would require a Merit in the BTEC First or a C
Grade at GCSE. Previous experience of Business Studies is not mandatory but is advantageous.
For students who have not previously studied Business, we would require a C grade in Maths and English
Language.
Assessment is 100% coursework based
Topics Covered and syllabus codes
The full specification can be found at http://www.edexcel.com/quals/nationals10/business/Pages/default.aspx
Year 12 (Certificate)
Unit 1: The Business Environment
Unit 2: Business Resources
Unit 4: Business Communication
Year 13 (Subsidiary Diploma)
Unit 3: Introduction to Marketing
Unit 13: Recruitment and Selection in Business
Unit 18: Managing a Business Event
**Subject to change.
BUSINESS STUDIES AS and A2 (AQA)
Entry requirement
Business Studies at A-Level is a challenging subject with high standards of both numerical and literacy skills
required. It is not mandatory to have studied Business at GCSE but it is advantageous. If it has been studied
previously, a GCSE grade B, or BTEC Distinction, would be required. If Business Studies has not been taken
previously a student would need to demonstrate a clear interest in the subject and have a B grade in English
Language and Maths.
The course allows students to analyse management theories in a real life context using case study materials and
practical activities. Each facet of an organisation is covered during the course from marketing and finance to
human resource management and operations.
Topics Covered and syllabus codes
The full specification can be found at: http://filestore.aqa.org.uk/resources/business/specifications/AQA-
7131-7132-SP-2015-V1-0.PDF
At AS Level
BUSINESS 1: Managing a Business
BUSINESS 2: Strategies for Success
At A-Level BUSINESS 3: The Business Environment and Managing Change
Examination sessions Students attempt BUSINESS 1 and BUSINESS 2 in May/June of year 12. BUSINESS 3 is taken in May/June of year 13.
CHEMISTRY AS & A2 (Edexcel 8CH0 / 9CH0)
Entry Requirements:
Chemistry is about everything. It is the central science. This is an exciting, challenging laboratory based
subject which explores the laws of chemistry and demonstrates how these laws and the skills of the
chemist have been exploited to encompass everything that we do.
The entry requirement is a grade ‘B’ in GCSE Chemistry (Separate Science) and a grade ‘B’ in GCSE Maths.
Pupils from the ‘Additional science’ programme will need to have achieved a grade ‘B’ in Core and
Additional Science. The course is mathematically demanding and most pupils studying Chemistry at ‘A’
Level select to study AS Mathematics as well.
Topics Covered and Syllabus Codes
The syllabus followed is EDEXCEL GCE Chemistry 8CH0/9CH0. The specification for the course can be
found using the link below:
http://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/edexcel-a-levels/chemistry-2015.html
Assessment at AS level:
Paper 1: Core Inorganic and Physical Chemistry (50%)
Paper 2: Core Organic and Physical Chemistry (50%)
Assessment at A2 level:
Paper 1: Advanced Inorganic and Physical Chemistry (30%)
Paper 2: Advanced Organic and Physical Chemistry (30%)
Paper 3: General and Practical Principles in Chemistry (40%)
Science Practical Endorsement: This is reported on the certificate as a ‘Pass’ or ‘Fail’ with no
contribution to the overall mark.
Examination Sessions AS examinations in Chemistry will be carried out in the summer (May and June) of year 12. The AS will not count towards the A2 grade, but will be a stand- alone qualification in its own right if students choose to drop it at the end of year 12. A2 examinations will occur in the summer of year 13 and will assess all work covered across the two years.
DESIGN TECHNOLOGY A.S. and A2 (AQA)
Entry requirement
We would expect students wishing to pursue this subject at A Level to have achieved a B grade in one of the
Design and Technology subject options.
A-Level work builds on the skills learnt during the two years of the GCSE course and broadens them
considerably to allow a more effective approach to solving a problem for a specific client: this is achieved by
researching, analysing, presenting design ideas, manufacturing the solution to the problem and evaluating the
outcome to ensure it meets the needs of the client. Project work is guided but we do allow for some freedom
of choice in selecting an area of study and development. New skills are taught and students are required to
work independently on coursework during lessons and in non-contact time. Students do need to recognise this
when opting for this subject.
Topics Covered and syllabus codes
The full specification can be found at: http://filestore.aqa.org.uk/subjects/specifications/alevel/AQA-2550-W-
SP-14.PDF
AS/A2
Materials and Components Design and Market Influences Processes and Manufacture
At AS Level
Unit 1 Materials, Components and Application: (Written theory paper) 50% of the AS grade award.
Unit 2 Learning through Designing and Making: (Coursework project) 50% of the AS grade award.
At A2 Level
Unit 3 Design and Manufacture: (Written theory paper) 25% of the overall full A Level grade award. (Incorporating 25% from the contributing AS written theory paper grade award) Unit 4 Design and Making Practice: (Coursework project) 25% of the overall full A Level grade award. (Incorporating 25% from the contributing AS coursework project grade award) Examination sessions All AS and A2 examinations in Design and Technology Product Design will take place in the summer. (May or June). Coursework is completed for submission to the exam board at the end of the Easter term for both AS and A2 level.
DRAMA AND THEATRE A.S and A2 (Edexcel)
Entry requirement
As Theatre Studies remains an academically rigorous and demanding subject the
department ask students to achieve at least a grade B at GCSE Drama.
The course will require a high level of participation in extra-curricular rehearsals. There is also a cost element in
the form of theatre trips and an annual residential trip.
Topics Covered and syllabus codes
The AS and A2 specification can be found at:
http://www.edexcel.com/migrationdocuments/GCE%20New%20GCE/UA035226_GCE_Lin_DramTS_Issue_6.pdf
At A.S. Level Unit 1: Exploration of Drama and Theatre (Internally assessed) 20% Unit 2: Theatre Text in Performance (Externally assessed) 30%
At A2 Level
Unit 3: Exploration of Dramatic Performance (Internally assessed) 20% Unit 4: Theatre Text in Context (Externally assessed) 30% Examination sessions
AS examinations in Theatre Studies will be carried out in the summer (May and June) of year 12 (2015). The AS will count towards the A2 grade but will also be a stand-alone qualification in its own right if students opt to drop it at the end of year 12. A2 examinations will occur in summer of year 13 (2016) and will assess all the work covered across the two years.
Economics AS & A2
A LEVEL ECONOMICS LINEAR – THE BASICS OF WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW When Einstein was asked “what is the most powerful force in the universe”? He answered the question with an economics concept. This illustrates the importance and pervasiveness of economics in our everyday lives Economics is a serious academic subject which commands respect in all fields – both in academic and commercial contexts. If you are interested in discussing and debating current affairs and the way the financial world works this is the subject for you. Both the AS and A Level qualifications focuses on ‘microeconomics’. From a base of microeconomic theory, students will discuss and evaluate how well this theory explains our observations of economic agents in the real world. The theoretical workings of the free market provide a useful starting point for explanation and analysis. Imperfections and market failures provide a lead into discussing the merits and drawbacks of government intervention and the usefulness of theory in explaining observations taken from the real world of economics. Component 2 of both the AS and A Level qualifications focuses on ‘macroeconomics’. It will provide students with the technical and analytical tools required to understand how the macroeconomy functions on both the domestic and global levels. The course encourages students to adopt a critical approach to their study of policy through understanding the limitations and conflicts that they present. Policy approaches are also considered in a historical context to understand how macroeconomics has changed over time. The A Level (460) has three components: 1) Microeconomics, 2 hr exams, each 80 marks. 2) Macroeconomics 2 hr exams, each 80 marks. 3) Themes in economics (which is synoptic). 2 hr exams, each 80 marks. ASSESSMENT There are three 2 hr exams, each 80 marks. The Micro- and Macro exams each have short to medium data response questions. Two essays (25 marks each) from a choice of four. The third exam has 30 MCQs and a set of short to medium response questions. We currently study OCR exam board and the link is below: http://www.ocr.org.uk/Images/171864-as-a-level-economics-summary-brochure.pdf Please note you will need at least a B grade in English and preferably an A in Maths at GCSE.
English Literature AS & A2
You will be studying the Edexcel A/Level English Literature GCE course (9ET0). This is a linear course and you will be sitting a public examination at the end of the course. Of course you will have internal progress assessments, to prepare you for the public examination. Entry requirement is a B grade at GCSE. In 2015‐2016, the Edexcel AS English Literature GCE course (8ETO) will be offered. This will lead smoothly to the A/Level course (9ETO) in Year 13. You are advised to download a copy of the specification for yourself at http://www.edexcel.com. It is also worthwhile browsing through other documents on this site, to help you understand how the A level is assessed.
Assessment
Component 1: Poetry and Drama Paper code: 8ET0/01 Written examination consisting of two sections. Open-book examination clean copies of the prescribed texts can be taken into the examination.
60% of the total qualification
Section A: Poetry One comparative essay question from a choice of two on their studied text. Students will draw on their knowledge of poetic form, language and conventions (AO1, AO2, AO4 assessed). Section B: Drama One essay question from a choice of two on their studied drama text (AO1, AO2, AO3, AO5 assessed).
● First assessment: May/June 2016. ● The assessment is 2 hours. ● The assessment consists of 18 questions. Students answer two of these questions.
● The assessment consists of 72 marks – 24 marks for Section A and 48 marks for Section B.
Component 2: Prose Paper code: 8ET0/02 Written examination consisting of one section. Open-book examination clean copies of the prescribed prose texts can be taken into the examination.
40% of the total qualification
Students answer one comparative essay question from a choice of two on their studied theme (AO1, AO2, AO3, AO4 assessed).
● First assessment: May/June 2016. ● The assessment length is 1 hour. ● The assessment consists of 12 questions. Students answer one of these questions. ● The assessment consists of 44 marks.
Example of content for the delivery of a co-taught AS and A level cohort
Year 1
● One collection of post-2000 poetry
● One drama text (non-Shakespeare)
● Two prose texts (including at least one pre-1900 text)
Year 2
● One Shakespeare play plus a selection of related essays
from the Shakespeare Critical Anthology
● Approaches to unseen poetry and comparison with year 1
collection of post-2000 poetry
● One collection of poetry from a selected time
period, either by movement or by poet
A level coursework (20% of overall mark) preparation for the coursework with A level two-year students begins towards the end of year 1, while the AS students prepare for their AS examinations. Therefore, the two coursework texts may be covered in year 1, year 2 or a combination of both, as appropriate.
GEOGRAPHY A.S. and A2 (OCR) – Exam Board subject to change
Entry requirement
Geography remains an academically rigorous and demanding subject and therefore the department asks students to achieve at least a B grade at GCSE.
The course provides the students with challenge as some of the topics will be new to them. We have designed the course this way so that the students do not feel bored by the A level. This means that being a student on the geography course requires a thirst for knowledge and the desire to carry out personal research on topics introduced in the classroom. Some topics the students will have studied previously, however there is much more depth required for AS/A Level. There is also the chance to embark on an optional fieldtrip to Iceland. There will also be a compulsory residential fieldtrip in the UK.
How it works
Each class will have one teacher who will teach them all of the different topics covered on the AS or A Level course. Due to the requirements of the 2 different specifications, students will need to decide which course they would prefer to do – AS or the A-Level course. If students complete the AS course, it will count as a separate qualification and will not be able to complete the A Level course.
Topics Covered and syllabus codes
The specifications are still being accredited, however we will most likely be following the OCR AS and A-Level specifications. Draft copies can be found at: http://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/as-a-level-gce-geography-h081-h481-from-2016/ At AS Level
1. Landscape and Place: Landscape Systems, Changing Spaces; making places, Fieldwork & Geographical Skills. 2 hour written paper, 90 marks, 60% of AS
2. Geographical Debates – Exploring Oceans & Geographical Skills. 1 hour 30 minute written paper, 60
marks, 40% of AS
At A-Level
1. Physical Systems: Landscape Systems, Earth’s support systems & Geographical Skills. 1 Hour 45 minutes exam, 72 marks, 24% of A Level
2. Human Systems: Changing Spaces; Making Places, Global Connections & Geographical Skills. 1 Hour 45 minutes exam, 72 marks, 24% of A Level
3. Geographical Debates: Exploring Oceans & Hazardous Earth. 2 Hours 30 minutes written exam, 96 marks, 32% of A Level
4. Independent Investigation: An independent investigation on Physical Systems, Human Interactions or Geographical Debates. This will be a written report, between 3000-4000 words. 60 marks, 20% of A Level
Examination sessions
For the AS course, exams will be held in the May exam session at the end of Year 12. For the A-Level course, all exams will be sat at the end of Year 13 (May exam series). There will be mock exams held at intervals throughout the academic year to allow students to practise their exam skills and to get used to exam timings.
HISTORY AS & A2 (Edexcel History Route E)
Entry requirement
As History remains an academically rigorous and demanding subject the department ask students to
achieve a grade A or B at GCSE History.
The course builds upon some of the units which students studied at GCSE level, developing the key
ideas and themes that students are already familiar with.
Topics covered and syllabus codes
The AS specification can be found at:
http://www.edexcel.com/migrationdocuments/A%20level%20from%202015/9781446912485_GCE_
2015_AS_HIST_WEB%20(1).PDF
The A2 Specification can be found at:
http://www.edexcel.com/migrationdocuments/A%20level%20from%202015/9781446914366_GCE_
2015_A_HIST_WEB.PDF
At AS Level
Option 1E: Russia, 1917–91: from Lenin to Yeltsin
Option 2E.2: Mao’s China, 1947-76
At A2 Level
Option 35.2 The British experience of warfare c1763-1918 There is also a coursework unit that is completed in year 13.
Examination sessions AS examinations in History will be carried out in the summer (May and June) of year 12 (2015). The AS will not count towards the A2 grade (but will be a stand- alone qualification in its own right if students opt to drop it at the end of year 12.) It will give a very good indication of how the student may fare at A2. A2 examinations will occur in summer of year 13 (2016) and will assess all the work covered across the two years.
Edexcel BTEC National Level 3 in ICT
Subsidiary Diploma (single) & Diploma (double)
Entry requirement
The BTEC Subsidiary Diploma in ICT (equivalent to 1 GCE A Level) consists of two compulsory and four
optional units.
The BTEC Diploma in ICT (equivalent to 2 GCE A Levels) consists of three compulsory and nine optional
units.
The entrance requirements for this course are:
GCSE Computing grade C plus GCSE grade C in Maths & English or GCSE ICT– grade C plus grade C in English & Maths
Topics Covered and syllabus codes
The full specification can be found at:
http://www.edexcel.com/quals/nationals10/it/Pages/default.aspx
Core Units Unit 1: Communication and Employability Skills for IT: The aim of this unit is to ensure that learners understand both the personal attributes valued by employers and the principles of communicating effectively whilst developing effective communication skills and addressing your own personal development needs. Unit 2: Computer Systems: The aim of this unit is to enable learners to understand the components of computer systems and develop the skills needed to recommend appropriate systems for business purposes and set up and maintain computer systems. Unit 3: Information Systems: (Full Diploma only) This unit enables learners to understand how information and data are used by computer systems within organisations. Optional Units include (but are not limited to…) E-Commerce: The aim of this unit is to ensure that learners know the technologies involved in e-commerce, understand the impact of e-commerce on organisations and on society, and that they are able to plan e-commerce strategies. Website Production: The aim of this unit is to enable learners to understand web architecture and the factors that affect its performance. Learners will also be able to design and create interactive websites. Digital Graphics: This unit aims to enable learners to understand different types of digital graphics images and file formats and to be able to create, edit, modify and manipulate digital images of various types and complexity. Computer Animation: The aim of this unit is to ensure learners understand types of animation and their uses and develop the knowledge and skills required to use software techniques to design and implement different types of animation.
LANGUAGES: FRENCH / GERMAN/ Spanish AS and A2 (AQA)
Entry requirement
Languages remain academically rigorous and demanding as subjects, so the department ask students
to achieve a minimum of grade B at GCSE at Higher level in order to be able to cope with the content
of the course.
The course enables students to develop and build on the skills required at GCSE. Apart from being
beneficial at a personal level, your A level in Languages can provide opportunities in a variety of
career paths. For those who want to specialize in languages, you could work with different industries
as a translator or work in education. There will also be career opportunities in the travel and tourism
industry. Being proficient in a language can give you broader career options, even if you were
looking into a career in engineering, design technology or food technology.
In addition to those who continue to study a foreign language at university, many students choose to
combine their language proficiency with a further skill and use their language to complement their
studies of business, the law, technology etc. Prestigious law and accountancy firms are often looking
for young professionals with good language skills to staff their offices in Paris, Brussels etc.
Moreover should you wish to take up another language, e.g. Japanese, at university, an A level in a
modern foreign language is essential.
Topics Covered and syllabus codes
The AS course comprises 4 main topics of which there are subtopics. These topics include Media,
popular culture, family/relationships and healthy living/lifestyle. You will explore topics relating to
music, cinema, fashion and many others.
The A2 course also has 4 main topics, which are Environment, culture, contemporary social issues
and multi-cultural society. You will choose two of five culture topics for a more in-depth study. The
full specification can be found at: http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/languages/as-and-a-level
AS Unit 1 - FREN1; GERM1; SPAN1 70% (35% of A Level) Listening, Reading and Writing – 2hr written Unit 2 - FRE2T/V; GER2T/V ; SPA2T/V 30% (15% of A Level) 35 minutes speaking test A2 Unit 3 – FREN3; GERM3; SPAN3 35% of A Level (Listening, Reading and Writing – 2h 30 written exam) Unit 4 – FRE4T/V; GER4T/V ; SPA4T/V 15% of A Level (35 minutes speaking test)
LAW A.S. and A2 (AQA)
Entry requirement
Law is an academic essay based course and therefore a pre-requisite to study Law is a minimum of a
B grade in an essay based subject plus a B grade in Maths and GCSE English Language as students
need to have excellent literacy skills.
A level Law is the study of English and European law.
The subject matter is diverse in terms of legal issues and coverage.
Topics covered and syllabus codes
The syllabus may be found at: http://www.aqa.co.uk
You will study the Civil and Criminal Courts, sentencing in the courts, criminal appeals and bail. This
will include visits to the Magistrates Court and the Crown Court. You will take part in a mock trial.
In addition you will learn about the roles of judges, magistrates and solicitors and barristers.
At A.S. you will learn about how the common law is made through judicial precedent and how judges
interpret the law in statutory interpretation
In your A.S. year you will study the criminal law. But at A2 you will study in greater depth offences
such as Murder, Manslaughter, Attempts, GBH, ABH, Assaults and general defences such as Insanity
and intoxication.
At A.S. Level
You will study:
The English Legal System – 50% of A.S. grade
The concept of liability – 50% A.S. grade
At A2 Level
G154 – Criminal Law Special Study – 50% A2 grade
G153 – Criminal Law – 50% A2 Grade
MATHEMATICS AND FURTHER MATHEMATICS AS & A2 (Edexcel)
Entry requirement
In order to cope with the challenges of studying Maths at AS & A2 we would ask that students have a
grade A as a minimum (A* for Further Maths). Students will be required to have a secure
understanding of the algebra content covered at GCSE.
Topics Covered and syllabus codes
The full specification can be found at
http://www.edexcel.com/quals/gce/gce08/maths/Pages/default.aspx.
At AS Level
Maths C1, C2 & S1
Further Maths C1-C4, S1, S2 & D1
At A2 Level
Maths C3, C4 & M1
Further Maths FP1-FP3, M1, M2 & M3
Examination sessions Students studying AS Mathematics will sit modules in the summer of year 12. A2 examinations will be taken in the summer of year 13. There is no coursework component.
June Year 12 June Year 13
Maths C1, C2 ,S1 C3, C4, M1
Further Maths C1, C2, C3, C4,
S1,S2, D1
FP1, FP2, FP3,
M1, M2, M3
MEDIA STUDIES A.S. and A2 (OCR)
Entry requirement
The Media Studies ‘A’ level course integrates theoretical and practical approaches. Throughout the course students will be critically analysing and evaluating media texts in similar ways to how they would interpret more traditional texts. If Media Studies has been taken at GCSE, a C grade in Media is required. If Media has not been previously studied, a C grade in English Language is required.
Course overview
The course provides an understanding of the key media concepts of language, representation, audiences and institutions, applied in the analysis of a variety of media texts such as films, TV dramas, TV comedies, advertising, and magazines adverts - relying on written analysis of these texts. Practically, students will work with high definition cameras, a green screen to manipulate background camera shots, Photoshop, used to design artwork, GarageBand which allows for the creation and recording of music, and the professional editing software Final Cut Pro on Apple Mac.
Throughout the coursework candidates will have plenty of opportunities to demonstrate what they can do and to be creative. It’s also lots of fun!
The full specification can be found at http://www.ocr.org.uk/download/kd/ocr_9646_kd_gce_spec.pdf
Topics covered and syllabus codes
AS Level
G321: Foundation Portfolio in Media This is a coursework unit where candidates produce a media artefact such as a 2 minute thriller opening, presenting research, planning and an evaluation alongside it. G322: Key Media Concepts (TV Drama) This paper covers the two areas of Textual Analysis and Representation in TV drama alongside the study of Institutions and Audiences within the Film Industry.
A2 Level
G324: Advanced Portfolio in Media This is a coursework unit where candidates produce work such as a music video or short film, supplementing this with planning and evaluation work. G325: Critical Perspectives in Media This paper covers the two areas of Theoretical Evaluation of Production alongside a study of Contemporary Media Issues. In the past we have studied post modernism in film. Examinations and coursework AS - Examinations and coursework are in May/June of Year 12. A2 - Examinations are held in May/June of Year 13.
MUSIC A.S. and A2 (AQA)
Entry requirement
In order to study Music in the Sixth Form you will need a Grade B at GCSE, however those that have a
particularly strong performance ability and get a Grade C will also be highly considered. It is important that
students discuss their plans with a member of the music staff so that we can advise them on performance in
particular.
In September 2016 we will be undertaking the new specification for A-Level. At present we haven’t decided on which one, however they all contain the same or similar format and it is mainly the set-works that are different. Students will therefor undertake the following:
1. Performance exam – students will be required to play at around Grade 5 level however there is no requirement for them to take the actual grade 5 exam. We cater for all instruments and help boys to chose suitable repertoire that will gain them the most marks. Having private lessons outside of school is helpful but not essential. It is crucial for boys to understand the importance of performance but also not rule themselves out because they haven’t taken formal graded music exams. The performance element is spread over the year and is all controlled assessment coursework.
2. Composition - Students will have to compose an extended piece of music across the year. This will be carried out on computer and will extend and build upon the GCSE composition work. This is equally as important as the performance and so we will be looking for students with a flair for composition.
3. Listening & Analysis – All of the new A-Level specifications included listening and analysis work and this will centre around a listening exam and an essay based written exam. Music is a highly academic subject with a strong focus on extended writing and analysis. Alongside this, students will build upon the listening work at GCSE and learn how to fully analyse and describe the music they hear. It is an excellent part of the course as it develops their writing and analytical skills as well as their overall use of English.
PHOTOGRAPHY A.S. and A2 (Edexcel)
Entry Requirement
GCSE Art & Design, grade B or above
GCSE English Language, grade C or above
Equipment: Students will need to purchase an SLR digital camera to take part in this course, we ask that this is available from the start of the course. Course overview Introduction Photography has been used by practitioners to record, document and present examples of everyday life, in ordinary and extraordinary circumstances. It has also been used as the vehicle for artistic expression, communicating personal ideas about the world around us. It is used to convey personal identity more widely than any other art form, is applied in the creative process across art, craft and design and is widely used in social, commercial and scientific contexts. Drawing and other processes Students will use a camera to record the observed world and must also be able to reflect on, refine and apply the observations they make with the camera. They can engage with drawing methods and other creative techniques such as collage and montage to experiment and develop ideas. Photography can include work on digital and light sensitive materials used in the darkroom. Students will need to be able to plan their shoots taking into consideration weather conditions, time of day, relevant locations, setting up lighting, gathering relevant subject matter and general organisation of the resources required to realise their creative ideas. They must be prepared to work outside and beyond the school environment to develop their personal projects. Contextual studies Contexts in photography can be found in a wide range of sources; for example from galleries and museums, contemporary photography shows and web-based sources, films, architecture, music, literature, nature and science. Students should be familiar with contemporary and emerging concepts and learn how to analyse and critically evaluate photography demonstrating an understanding of purposes, meanings and contexts. During the course students must develop knowledge, skills and understanding that allows them to develop their own creative ideas informed by the work of others. They will start the course with a 6 week introductory course that allows them to develop photographic skills in the following:
The principles of digital photography
Viewpoint, exposure, white balance, composition, aperture, shutter speed, exposure, ISO, shooting
modes and histograms
Understand how the ‘formal elements’ evoke responses in the viewer
The processes for the production of digital and print based images
Methods of presentation of photographic images
Methods of analysing and writing about photography
Introduction to the work of historical and contemporary photographers and artists
How to develop photographic ideas, visual research, mind mapping
How to edit and manipulate photos
The influence of art on photography
The impact of social and historical events on photography
PHOTOGRAPHY A.S. and A2 (Edexcel) Cont.
Course Structure Component 1 – Personal Investigation, worth 50% of the total qualification This is a personal project of practical work developed from the student’s own starting point to be negotiated with the teacher. Current topics include: the urban landscape, still life, people and portraits. Students develop their work through written research, experimentation with materials and processes, visual research, brainstorming, photography and idea development sessions. Students are expected to complete at least 5 hours of homework each week. The project culminates in the production of a ‘final outcome’ in the form of a painting, sculpture, drawing or print the deadline for this is in January. Component 2 -The Externally Set Assignment, worth 50% of the total qualification This incorporates a preparatory period and a 10 hour sustained exam over 2 days.
The theme is set by the exam board and students develop their own personal work from the theme.
A2 Photography & Art EDEXCEL EXAM BOARD
The A2 course will involve the same disciplines as the AS course but they will be developed at a higher level.
Component 1: Personal Investigation, worth 60% of the total marks Part 1: Practical Project (SKETCHBOOK) Produce a practical project culminating in a final outcome Part 2: Personal Investigation (WRITTEN) Produce a piece of continuous prose (essay) at least 1000 words long that explains and analyses the practical work in the context of other artists work. Component 2: Externally Set Assignment, worth 40% of the total marks This will be a project set by the exam board to a set theme. The exam paper will be realised at the start of February and students will prepare a sketchbook before the 15 hour controlled assessment split over several days where they will produce a final outcome. Exam Board Link to full specification:
http://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/edexcel-a-levels/art-and-design-2015.html
PHYSICS AS & A2 (OCR A)
Entry requirement
Physics is an intellectually challenging subject requiring deep understanding of amazing and un-
obvious ideas. Mathematical skills and concepts are used to describe Earth and the cosmos.
Students are required to achieve at least a B grade in all three GCSE sciences (Single Science is
preferable) plus at least a B and preferably an A in Higher Level Maths.
It is highly recommended that students also take Maths. AS Physics needs GCSE Maths. Upper sixth
A2 Physics needs AS Maths. University Physics and engineering need full A level Maths.
Topics covered and syllabus codes
The official specifications can be found at:
http://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/as-a-level-gce-physics-a-h156-h556-from-2015/
At AS Level
Students study the foundations of Physics at AS level involving mechanics (motion, projectiles, forces, energy, materials), waves, electricity and Quantum Physics (including its strange implications). Compared with GCSE, AS is more about why things happen whereas GCSE is more about what happens.
There is no coursework but practical work is an essential part of the course and practical skills are assessed in the written exam papers.
At A2 Level
Students study more Mechanics (including oscillations) alongside thermal physics, electric, magnetic and gravitational fields, capacitors, particle physics, radioactivity, medical physics and cosmology. The A2 course is especially interesting as it applies relatively few deep Physics principles to a wide range of modern situations (for example, how an MRI scanner works). At A2 level, we look at some cutting edge Physics in the fields of particles and cosmology.
Examination sessions AS examinations in Physics will be carried out in the summer (May and June) of year 12 (2015). The AS will not count towards the A2 grade (but will be a stand- alone qualification in its own right if students opt to drop it at the end of year 12.) It will give a very good indication of how the student may fare at A2. Students who don’t make the necessary effort to pass AS will not be allowed to continue to A2. A2 examinations will occur in summer of year 13 (2016) and will assess all the work covered across the two years.
Government and Politics AS & A2 (Edexcel)
Entry requirement
Government & Politics remains an academically rigorous and demanding subject, recognised by all the major
Universities, therefore the department asks that student achieve at least a B grade at GCSE level English.
The course works particularly well if students combine Government and Politics with History, Law or
Economics, however this is not a pre requisite and students are welcome regardless of their other subject
choices.
Topics Covered and syllabus codes
The full specification can be found at http://www.edexcel.com/quals/gce/gce08/gov/Pages/default.aspx
At AS Level
Unit 6GPO1: People and Politics
Unit 6GPO2: Governing the UK
At A2 Level
Unit 6GPO3: Route C - Representative Processes in the USA Unit 6GPO4: Route C – Governing the USA Examination sessions
All AS examinations in Politics will be carried out in the summer (May or June) of year 12. All A2 examinations in Politics will be carried out in summer of year 13. AS grades will count towards the grade at A2.
SPORTS STUDIES A.S. and A2 (AQA)
Entry requirement
As Physical Education remains an academically rigorous and demanding subject (Anatomy, Physiology,
Psychology & Biomechanics) so the department asks that students achieve at least a B grade at GCSE.
Students who have not taken GCSE PE should achieve at least a B grade in Biology GCSE to be able to
cope with the demands of course. The course builds upon the units that the students studied at GCSE
level with half of the units being a development of what the boys have done before and the other half
entirely new topics. We have found that this both stretches the boys but also gives the comfort of
building upon previous knowledge.
Topics Covered and syllabus codes
The full AS specification can be found at:
http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/physical-education/as-and-a-level/physical-education-7581
The full A level Specification can be found at:
http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/physical-education/as-and-a-level/physical-education-7582
At AS Level Unit 1: Factors affecting participation in sport & physical activity
Written paper, 2 hours, 84 marks-70% of AS Grade
Unit 2: Analysis and evaluation of physical activity as performer or coach
Internal assessment, externally moderated. 100 marks – 30% of AS Grade (10% written coursework)
Following a one year AS course, students have the opportunity to move on to the full A-level
course for year 13
At A Level
Unit 1: Factors affecting participation in physical activity & sport
Written paper, 2 hours, 105 marks – 35% of A level. Includes Applied Anatomy and Physiology, Skill
Acquisition and Sport in Society
Unit 2: Factors affecting optimal performance in physical activity & sport
Written paper, 2 hours, 105 marks-35% of A level. Includes Exercise Physiology and Biomechanics,
Sport Psychology, Sport and Society and Technology in Sport
Unit 3: Analysis and evaluation of physical activity as performer or coach
Internal assessment, externally moderated – 30% of A level. This Includes both Practical & Written
Coursework. Perform, analyse, evaluate and correct own performance in a competitive situation as
either player or coach.
Examination sessions All AS examinations in PE will be carried out in the summer (May and June) of year 12. AS Practical Moderation will take place in March. A level examination will be carried out in summer of year 13. A level Practical Moderation will take place in March. A level Written Coursework will be completed in year 13. With a final hand in date before February half term.
DIPLOMA IN SPORT EDEXCEL LEVEL 3 BTEC (Double)
Entry requirement
As BTEC remains a rigorous and demanding subject the department asks that students achieve at least
a Merit when studying the First Certificate in Sport Level 2 or C grade at GCSE to be able to cope with
the demands of the course. If The First Certificate in Sport or GCSE PE was not studied a B in Biology
or a Merit in BTEC Applied Science is required.
The course has a wide variety of units that expands what students studied at BTEC Level 2 or GCSE
level. Learning is developed on what the students have done before and the other units are entirely
new. We have found that the content and work load stretches student’s academic capabilities and
prepares them for higher education courses.
Specification and units covered
The full specification and units can be found at
http://www.edexcel.com/quals/nationals10/sport/Pages/default.aspx
BTEC DIPOLMA IN SPORT This course is a double award and will take up two 6th form options, delivered over two years including the following units.
Year 1 Year 2
1 Principles of Anatomy and Physiology in Sport 8 Practical Team Sports
2 The Physiology of Fitness 9 Practical Individual Sports
3 Assessing Risk in Sport 12 Current Issues in Sport
4 Fitness Training and Programming 13 Leadership in Sport
5 Sports Coaching 22 Rules, Regulations and
Officiating in Sport 25 Sport as a Business
6 Sports Development
7 Fitness Testing for Sport and Exercise
Assessment process
There is a variety of ways the boys are assessed in BTEC the most common are, written reports, video evidence, podcast, teacher observations witness statements and presentations. Students need to work to strict deadlines set by Edexcel and failure to meet two deadlines will result in withdrawal from the course.
SUBSIDIARY DIPOLMA IN SPORT EDEXCEL LEVEL 3 BTEC (Single)
Entry requirement
As BTEC remains a rigorous and demanding subject the department asks that students achieve at least
a Merit when studying the First Certificate in Sport Level 2 or C grade at GCSE to be able to cope with
the demands of the course. If The First Certificate in Sport or GCSE PE was not studied a B in Biology
or a Merit in BTEC Applied Science is required.
The course has a wide variety of units that expands what students studied at BTEC Level 2 or GCSE
level. Learning is developed on what the students have done before and the other units are entirely
new. We have found that the content and work load stretches student’s academic capabilities and
prepares them for higher education courses.
This course is a single award and will take up one 6th form option, delivered over two years including the following units.
Specification and units covered
The full specification and units can be found at
http://www.edexcel.com/quals/nationals10/sport/Pages/default.aspx
Year 1
1 Principles of Anatomy and Physiology in Sport
2 The Physiology of Fitness
3 Assessing Risk in Sport
7 Fitness Testing for sport and exercise
Year 2
5 Sports Coaching
8 Practical Team Sports
11 Sports Nutrition
12 Current issues in Sport
Assessment process
There is a variety of ways the boys are assessed in BTEC the most common are, written reports, video evidence, podcast, teacher observations witness statements and presentations. Students need to work to strict deadlines set by Edexcel and failure to meet two deadlines will result in withdrawal from the course.