LEEK FEDERATION SIXTH FORM

COURSE GUIDESixth Form

Leek Federation

Choosing the right course for you can be difficult

If you wish to discuss your course choices,

or wish to find out more about the opportunities

available to you,

please get in touch.

Welcome...

...to the Leek Federation Sixth Form Course Guide 2016.

This is a very important time for you and young people across the country. As you choose your pathway for the next two years you face an uncertain world where youth unemployment is high and having the right qualifications and skillset is key.

We offer a wide range of high quality courses. We only offer courses that are widely recognised and taught by qualified teachers who know their subjects well. We offer a supportive environment and superb pastoral care. All of this in beautiful surroundings, with excellent facilities.

What sets us apart is that we are big enough to offer a very wide range of courses and small enough to give personalised support. At Leek Federation Sixth Form, students do well, and are set up with skills for life.

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Admission Requirements

The grades required for entry into Leek Federation Sixth Form are 5 A*-C (or equivalent) including English and Maths.

We will consider applications from students who nearly reach this threshold, and support can be given for those who do not achieve A*-C in English and/or Maths to do so in Year 12.

Look at your most recent set of predicted grades to see that you have a good chance of meeting the entry criteria. Due to the specific challenges of each course, some courses require particular grades in certain GCSE subjects. See the later pages in this guide for these specific requirements.

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How to Choose Your Courses

In addition to looking at your most recent attainment grades, you should consider which subjects you enjoy, and how subjects are related to career paths which you’re considering.

If you don’t yet have a clue what you might do after Sixth Form, don’t worry: you’re not alone! Around a third of applicants each year don’t yet have any ideas about careers, and many students change their mind along the way.

At the interview stage we will check that your course choices match any career aspirations you have at present, and that your projected GCSE grades are likely to give you access to the courses you have chosen. At the interview we can also give advice on course combinations. See overleaf for the ‘Application Timeline‘.

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Application Timeline

JanuaryFill in your application form.

Forms are available online (www.lfsixth.org.uk), and copies are sent to those who request them. Though applications are accepted right up until September, prospective students are encouraged to submit an early application as popular courses fill quickly.

FebruaryApplication Acknowledgement. You will receive acknowledgement of your application. Your course choices will be checked against your predicted grades.

MarchApplicant Interviews. The interview is an opportunity for you to ask questions and for us to check the courses that you have chosen, and seek further details about your aspirations.

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JulyInduction Days. Come in to meet your Sixth Form Tutor, begin to find your way around, have taster sessions in some of your chosen subjects, and have lunch with your Tutor Group.

AugustResults day. Expert advice is available on GCSE results day, from 9am in Old Hall on the Westwood campus and in the Fulmar on the Leek campus. If you wish to discuss your course choices, change your options, or you don’t think you quite met the entry requirements, pop in and we will chat things through.

September 6th: Sixth Form Begins!

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10. Art - Fine Art

11. Art - Photography

12. Art - Textiles

13. Biology

14. Business

15. Chemistry

16. Design and Technology: Product Design

17. Drama and Theatre Studies

18. English Language

19. English Literature

20. Food, Nutrition and Health

21. Geography

22. Health and Social Care

23. History

24. Information and Communication Technology

25. Mathematics

26. Mathematics - Further

27. Mathematics - Core

28. Media Studies

29. Modern Foreign Languages

30. Music

31. Music Technology

32. Physical Education

33. Physics

34. Psychology

35. Religion and Philosophy

36. Sociology

37. Sport

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Art - Fine Art

The Course You will gain a broad range of skills over the course, through many different practical projects. You will undertake a succession of three-week modules of work in various materials and mediums including Printmaking, Ceramics, Textiles, Fine Art and Fashion.

Students will then select a specialism from these and begin their personal investigation work.

AssessmentA mixture of externally set tasks and personal investigation across the AS and A Level course.

Additional OpportunitiesOpportunities to visit galleries and museums both in the UK and worldwide, such as London, Liverpool, Paris, Manchester, Amsterdam and New York.

Useful Skills and CharacteristicsAn interest in Art, Textiles and Mixed Media.

The ability to abstract ideas and think about new ideas and forms of art.

Competence with painting, drawing and/or textiles is required.

The ability to solve problems and work independently.

Resilience, determination and a willingness to work hard.

In addition to the Sixth Form entry requirements, a grade B in Art at GCSE is advised.

Art A Level is an excellent foundation for many creative industry Higher E d u c a t i o n c o u r s e s and careers including architecture, graphic design, web design, fashion, surface pattern, etc.

Art - Photography

The CourseYou will gain a broad range of skills over the course, through many different practical projects specialising in photography.

You will explore darkroom processing, traditional 35mm photography, print-making and digital manipulation.

Assessment50% externally set examination.50% personal portfolio.

Additional OpportunitiesVisits to major galleries including the Met Museum and Museum of Modern Art in New York. Photography students will have opportunity to play a key role in the College productions in costume design and publicity.

Useful Skills and CharacteristicsAn interest in Art and/or photography, with some competence with painting, drawing and/or textiles at GCSE.

The ability to abstract ideas and think about new ideas and forms of art.

The ability to solve problems and work independently. Resilience, determination and a willingness to work hard.

In addition to the Sixth Form entry requirements, a grade B in Art at GCSE is advised. For those wishing to specialise in photography, GCSE Art is not essential but a keen understanding of the visual elements in photography is necessary.

To study Art beyond A Level it is advisable to also consider studying a Foundation course prior to university.

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Art - Textiles

The Course You will gain a broad range of skills over the course through many different practical projects.

You will undertake a succession of workshops using various materials and techniques, including machine and hand-stitching.

Students will then select a specialism from these and begin their personal investigation work.

AssessmentAS Level - 100% Externally set task.A Level - 60% Personal investigation. - 40% Externally set task.

Additional OpportunitiesOpportunities to visit galleries and museums both in the UK and worldwide, such as London, Liverpool, Paris, Manchester, Amsterdam and New York.

Useful Skills and CharacteristicsAn interest in Art, Textiles and Mixed Media.

The ability to abstract ideas and think about new ideas and forms of art.

Competence with painting, drawing and/or textiles is required.

The ability to solve problems and work independently.

Resilience, determination and a willingness to work hard.

In addition to the Sixth Form entry requirements, a grade B in Art at GCSE is advised.

Texti les is an ideal foundation for entry into a creative career such as fashion, buyer, designer and working in theatre or film.

Biology

The CourseThe A Level Biology course (AQA) offers the opportunity to develop your knowledge of the subject from GCSE. You’ll analyse and evaluate scientific knowledge and apply it to unfamiliar situations; demonstrate and describe practical techniques and processes and become aware of advances in technology, including information technology, relevant to Biology.

AssessmentExamination with the opportunity to gain practical endorsement.

Additional OpportunitiesBorth Ecology Field Course, outside-speakers, group and individual presentations, dissection work, Café Scientifique.

Useful Skills and CharacteristicsStudents should be committed to the subject and show a genuine interest in Biological concepts.

The ability to be self-motivated and be able to work to deadlines.

An ability to discuss work both in and out of lesson time.

The ability to solve problems and work independently.

Resilience and determination and a willingness to work hard are essential.

In addition to the Sixth Form Entry Requirements, grades BB from a higher tier entry at GCSE is preferred. Triple Science would be an advantage.

Biology is a very useful subject for a range of careers, including Medicine, Veterinary S c i e n c e , D e n t i s t r y , Physiotherapy, Teaching, Research, Environmental and Ecological work.

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Business

The CourseStudents study four modules including Exploring Business, Developing a Marketing Campaign and Personal & Business Finance. A final unit on Customer Service, Market Research or Recruitment & Selection is also studied.

AssessmentAssessment is a combination of externally assessed controlled coursework, internally assessed coursework and a written exam.

Additional OpportunitiesGuest speakers, CIPFA Management Team Event.

Useful Skills and CharacteristicsAn enquiring mind and an interest in topical issues.

Enjoyment of solving problems and making decisions.Basic literacy, numeracy and ICT skills.

A GCSE or equivalent in Business Studies is not required in order to succeed in this subject, however you will need the drive to develop good research skills and the ability to work independently.

The Business course gives you a strong foundation in a variety of business operations and concepts. It ’s a particularly good companion subject for ICT.

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Chemistry

The CourseA Level Chemistry (AQA) will enable students to build on concepts and skills that will have been developed in the GCSE. You’ll analyse and evaluate scientific knowledge and apply it to unfamiliar situations; demonstrate and describe practical techniques and processes, and develop an understanding of chemical concepts using real world chemical applications drawn from modern applications in industry and in the environment.

AssessmentExamination with the opportunity to gain practical endorsement.

Additional OpportunitiesCafé Scientifique, Chemistry Olympiad, university visits.

Useful Skills and CharacteristicsAn interest in how things work and why things happen.

The ability to deal with abstract ideas.

A level of competence with mathematics in order to calculate quantities and values.

The ability to solve problems and work independently.

Resilience and determination and a willingness to work hard.

In addition to the Sixth Form Entry Requirements, grades BB from a higher tier entry at GCSE is preferred. Triple Science would be an advantage.

Chemistry is a highly r e s p e c t e d s u b j e c t required for a range of careers including:

Medicine, Biomedical Sciences, Dentistry, Engineering, Pharmacy, Physiotherapy and Veterinary Science.

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Design and Technology: Product Design

The CourseAt AS, coursework is divided into three projects focusing on; product investigation, product design and product manufacture.

At A2, coursework is a client based project of your choice, allowing you to develop and demonstrate independent creative skills.

Both years contain a theory element which is delivered in two of the five lessons each week, in preparation for a written examination.

Assessment40% written examination.60% practical coursework.

Useful Skills and CharacteristicsYou should enjoy the challenge of designing from scratch and physically bringing your ideas to life.

You should be confident when drawing sketching and exploring your design ideas.

You should be keen to expand your knowledge and awareness of the role of the designer.

You should be willing to work independently, motivate yourself and learn from those around you.

The career opportunities stemming from Design A Level are numerous and varied: you’ll learn key skills that are applicable to architecture, art, project management and many more fields of work and study.

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The CourseThe course consists of four modules, two in AS and two in A2.

At AS, you will explore two contrasting plays using practical activities and complete a set of exploration notes and a live theatre review. You will take part in a practical performance examination for the second module.

At A2, you will build on your knowledge of theatre and play-writing to devise your own piece of original theatre within a small group. You will deepen your knowledge of ancient theatre texts and use your knowledge of directing to develop a personal response to two historical texts.

AssessmentAS – 40% coursework ; 60% performance examination.A2 – 40% devised performance piece; 60% written examination.

Additional OpportunitiesRequirement to attend theatre visits; opportunities to perform in extra-curricular events; mentor younger pupils; work experience.

Useful Skills and CharacteristicsYou need to be determined and self-motivated.

Reliability is essential as is commitment to the subject and dedication to rehearsals outside of lesson time.

Students need to be open-minded creative individuals who enjoy working hard and who get on well with others.

Previous experience is preferable but not essential; enthusiasm, however, is vital.

Students could progress onto many careers after additional training: Actor, Stage Manager, Drama Teacher, Drama Therapist, Radio Presenter, Theatre Director, Theatre Technician, Theatre Design.

Drama and Theatre Studies

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English Language

The CourseStudents will develop their communication skills in reading, writing, speaking and listening. They will learn to study the social aspects of language and will develop their creative writing skills learning how to write for a specific audience and purpose. The course is very lively and discussion based; students are encouraged to debate their own ideas and think about the construction of language.

Assessment80% Examination.20% Non-examination element.

Additional OpportunitiesSixth Form newspaper, lower school literacy support, opportunities for external competitions such as Amnesty International and the Young Reporter Award.

Useful Skills and CharacteristicsEnjoyment of reading and writing, discussing linguistic features and analysing texts.

You will need to be well organised and committed, willing to read widely around the subject and happy to share your thoughts with others.

You must also be willing to work hard.

In addition to the Sixth From Entry Requirements, a grade B in GCSE English Language is advised.

A L e v e l E n g l i s h Language prepares you a range of careers, particularly those where communication and the ability to discuss information is important. C a r e e r s s u c h a s Journalism, Advertising, Editing, Teaching and Lecturing, Linguistics, Marketing, PR, and work in the Communications industry.

The subject has a very broad appeal and works well as a dual honours option at university.

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English Literature

The CourseA Level English Literature will help you to develop your communication skills in all areas; speaking and listening, reading and writing. Students are also given the opportunity to debate ideas raised in a rich variety of texts across genres and eras; discuss contextual themes and issues; and develop writing fluency. Students are encouraged to think independently around a text, develop their own unique interpretations and also consider other critical viewpoints. The course is very lively with lots of discussion-based activities. Students wanting to improve their analytical skills and those who enjoy reading and writing should consider the course.

Assessment80% Examination.20% Non-examination element.

Additional OpportunitiesLiterature/theatre trip to London, Sixth Form book club, theatre visits, lower school literacy support.

Useful Skills and CharacteristicsEnjoyment of reading and writing, discussing important issues and critical responses.

You will need to be well organised and committed, willing to read widely around the subject and happy to share your thoughts with others.

You must also be willing to work hard.

In addition to the Sixth Form Entry Requirements, a B in GCSE English Literature is advised.

Consider English if you have an interest in:

Teaching, Newspaper/ Magazine Editing, Publishing, Advertising/ Media, Arts Administration, Social Studies, Law related work.

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The CourseThe course allows candidates to develop an understanding of issues relating to society and health, resource management, nutrition and food production.

At AS candidates gain an understanding of demography, family and society, environmental, social issues and health as well as acquiring a thorough knowledge of resources, food provision, selection and purchase of food and household goods, food preparation and cooking equipment, food safety and hygiene.

At A2 candidates select their own content and develop their own task for a piece of coursework. Candidates will also study nutrients and energy; nutritional and dietary needs of different groups of people; properties of food; design, development and production of food; advances in the food industry.

Assessment50% coursework.50% written examination.

Useful Skills and CharacteristicsYou need to have an awareness of the nutritional needs of individuals and how this impacts on the health and well-being of society. You should also be able to apply this knowledge to menu planning and recipe production whilst enjoying the practical aspects of the subject.

The career opportunities stemming from Home Economics A level are numerous & varied. You will learn key skills that are applicable to food technologists, child development, nursing, health & social care and many more.

Food, Nutrition and Health

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The CourseThe course is equally divided between Human and Physical Geography and contains a range of topics at both AS and A2. The course includes exciting and engaging subject content about contemporary geographical themes and issues. You will investigate topics such as: Tectonic Processes and Hazards, Globalisation, Climate Change and Global Development and Connections.

Assessment80% Examination and 20% Non-Examined Assessment.

Additional OpportunitiesThe course involves a three day field trip to explore many of the topics studied.

Useful Skills and CharacteristicsYou should have a keen interest in current issues, local, national and global especially the way human activity affects our environment. You should have an open mind and be willing to consider a range of opinions and solutions. You will need to think independently and express your opinion in both written and spoken form. You should be willing to use a variety of resources to compile detailed case studies. You will need to develop your analytical skills particularly in statistics, map-drawing and ICT.

Geography is a good subject to consider alongside both Arts and Science based subjects. U s e f u l c o m p a n i o n subjects include History, Sociology, English and Biology.

A Level Geography equips students with a variety of skills and can lead to a wide range of careers. Geography related careers include: Cartography, Planning a n d D e v e l o p m e n t and Env i ronmenta l Consultancy.

Geography

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Health and Social Care

The CourseThe course consists of 6 mandatory units and 2 optional units.

Mandatory units include: Human Lifespan Development, Working in Health and Social Care, Enquiries into Current Research in Health & Social Care, Meeting Individual Care and Support Needs, Principles of Safe Practice in Health and Social Care and Promoting Public Health. Optional units include: Psychological and Sociological Perspectives in Health and Social Care.

AssessmentThe BTEC National Diploma is equivalent to two A Levels and the overall qualification is awarded at Pass, Merit, Distinction and Distinction*.

Students are assessed in a variety of ways; 5 units are internally assessed, 2 units are assessed by external examinations and one unit is assessed by a task set and marked by the exam board.

Additional OpportunitiesStudents are encouraged to complete work experience placements in a variety of settings. The department has links with local first schools, nursery schools and care homes. Visits to a range of health and social care settings are arranged. Workshops are provided by an adult day care service providing students with the opportunity to interact with the service users. Students are supported with applications to Keele University summer schools, NHS work experience placements and other relevant courses.

Useful Skills and CharacteristicsThe ability to research and work independently.

Good organisational skills and able to meet deadlines.

Good oral and written communication skills.

Proficient use of ICT in the presentation of coursework.

The ability to see situations from the perspective of others.

Students who obtain a BTEC Level 3 in Health and Social Care have progressed into the following career areas:

N u r s i n g , P r i m a r y Teaching, Early Years Teaching, Midwifery, Social work, The Police Force, Youth Work, Psychology, Sociology and Education Studies degrees, Occupational Therapy, Radiology. The skills developed can be applied to many careers.

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History

The CourseHistory is a rewarding, informative and interesting subject. The History A Level course give students the opportunity to study a range of different time periods in history, developing analytical and communication skills. Students must complete assessments in three components to complete the full course. These are: Stuart Britain and the crisis of Monarchy, The Cold War c1945-1991 and a personal study based on a topic of student’s choice.

Assessment80% Examination, 20% Historical Investigation

Useful Skills and CharacteristicsIndependent thought and analytical skills.

Literacy and communication skills – organising information and reaching balanced conclusions.

The ability to problem solve and ask questions.Critical analysis of events, people and ideas through the use of sources.

A qualification in History doesn’t limit you to a career using History directly, although there are many of those. Given the range of high order skills it helps you to develop, it is no surprise that History qualifications can lead to a huge range of careers including: Law, insurance, forensic accountancy and law enforcement.

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Information and Communication Technology

The CourseThe course is based around four modules; two in both AS and A2.

The B-Tec National (Level-3) in ICT is a qualification which gives you the opportunity to develop a range of practical ICT skills which are widely used across industry, commerce and the service sectors. This qualification is designed for learners who are interested in an introduction into the study of creating IT systems to manage and share information alongside other fields of study, with a view to progressing to a wide range of higher education courses, not necessarily just in IT.

Assessment2 externally assessed units 2 centre assessed units

Additional OpportunitiesLectures/talks by ICT experts from the ICT industry.

Useful Skills and CharacteristicsYou should be a student who likes to be able to select and use appropriate ICT tools and techniques to help you carry out investigations, capture and handle data, solve problems, make decisions and present and communicate information.

Literacy and Numeracy skills equivalent at least grade C/D at GCSE Maths and English.

A student who is prepared to work hard and demonstrate determination and commitment.

At least grade Pass from B-Tec National Level 2 and/or C grade at GCSE ICT/Computing.

To study ICT beyond Level 3 it is advisable to also consider studying a Science, Business and/or Mathematics subject.

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The CourseThe course consists of six modules, three in both AS and A2.

The course is aimed at extending your range of mathematical skills and techniques and enabling you to use these to solve unstructured problems.

The AS year includes Pure Mathematics and Statistics. The A2 year includes Mechanics and further extends elements of Pure Mathematics.

AssessmentAssessment is based entirely on the end of module exams; three in both AS and A2.

Additional OpportunitiesMaths Challenges and work with other students.

Useful Skills and CharacteristicsHaving a good command of algebra and be able to deal with abstract concepts as well as more practical problems.

Enjoying intellectual challenge and relish solving problems and puzzles.

The ability to solve problems and work independently.Having a genuine interest in Mathematics and a desire to learn more of the history and theory behind this fascinating and varied subject.

This course is only recommended for students who have studied GCSE Mathematics at Higher tier and have gained a grade B or above.

Mathematics A-Level is accepted by employers and universities as a desirable qualification. It opens the door to careers in Mathematics, Engineering, Physics, Computing, Accountancy, Economics, Business, Banking, Air Traffic Control, Management, Architecture, Surveying, Cartography, Psychology and, of course, Teaching to name but a few.

Mathematics

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Mathematics - Core

The CourseThis course will suit students who achieve an A* to C in GCSE Maths but do not wish to study AS or A-level Maths. It has the same weighting as an AS level course. It will focus on problem solving and developing skills needed in real-life and for studying. You will study topics such as statistics, probability and growth and decay. This course is an excellent opportunity to extend your mathematical skills and supports subjects with a high Mathematical content such as Biology, Geography and Psychology.

AssessmentThe course is assessed through external exam. There are two written papers.

Additional OpportunitiesWorking with other students, mathematics challenges and clubs.

Useful Skills and CharacteristicsHaving good basic numeracy skills and an enjoyment of Mathematics.

C o r e M a t h e m a t i c s opens the door to careers in Mathematics, Engineering, Physics, Computing, Accountancy, Economics, Business, Banking, Air Traffic Control, Management, Architecture, Surveying, Cartography, Psychology and, of course, Teaching to name but a few.

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The CourseThe course consists of six modules.

This is a very interesting and challenging subject for students wishing to gain two Advanced Level qualifications in Mathematics: it will extend and deepen students’ knowledge and understanding beyond the standard A-Level Mathematics course.

The AS year includes modules in Pure Mathematics and Decision Mathematics.

The A2 year consists of modules in Pure Mathematics and further modules in Statistics and Mechanics.

AssessmentAssessment is based on the end of module exams; three in both AS and A2.

Additional OpportunitiesMaths Challenges and work with other students.

Useful Skills and CharacteristicsHaving an excellent command of algebra and be able to deal with abstract concepts as well as more practical problems.

Enjoying intellectual challenge and relish solving problems and puzzles.

The ability to solve problems and work independently.

Having a genuine interest and enjoyment of Mathematics and a desire to learn more of the history and theory behind this fascinating and varied subject.

This course is only recommended for students who have studied GCSE Mathematics at Higher tier and have gained a grade A/A*.

Further Mathematics A-Level is a highly regarded qualification by univers i t ies . I t opens the door to careers in Mathematics, Engineering, Physics, Economics, Business, Banking, Air Traffic Contro l , Med ic ine , Accountancy, Scientific Research, Actuarial Work and Maths Teaching to name but a few.

Mathematics - Further

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Media Studies

The CourseThe course consists of four modules; two at AS and two at A2.

At AS, you will extend your knowledge of Textual Analysis and Representation, Institutions and Audiences. You will also produce a media artefact from a series of briefs. This process involves progression from a pre-production preliminary exercise, to a fully realised media artefact, such as a film or TV extract.

At A2, you will engage with contemporary media technologies to produce a media portfolio through a combination of two or more media and then present the research, planning and evaluation. In addition you will consider two areas of Theoretical Evaluation of Production alongside a study of Contemporary Media Issues.

AssessmentIn both AS and A2, 50% Coursework Portfolio, 50% external examination.

Additional OpportunitiesInvolvement in media elements of drama productions and ‘revues’, visits from media professionals.

Useful Skills and CharacteristicsEnjoyment of a variety of forms of media.

The ability to look closely at media texts from a variety of perspectives.

Willingness to work collaboratively.

Enjoyment of forming and voicing your own point of view.

A wide variety of courses and employment are possible following a Media A Level course, including Film, TV, Radio, Publishing, Journalism, Sociology, Criminology, Politics, and Cultural Studies. To study Media beyond A-Level it is advisable to also consider studying, Psychology and/or Sociology.

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The CourseCourse content will consists of three core topic areas and one additional cultural topic.

Core content 1. Social issues and trends 2. Political and artistic culture 3. Grammar

Options 4. Works: Literary texts and films

Assessment100% examination typically after two years of study. There are three papers:

Paper 1: Listening reading and writing (40%)Paper 2: Writing (30%)Paper 3: Speaking (30%)

Please note that specifications are still in draft and so may be subject to change.

Additional OpportunitiesStudy visits to France, Spain and Germany

Useful Skills and CharacteristicsAn interest and enjoyment of the challenge of using the language to communicate for a variety of purposes. An interest in current affairs and cinema or literature. A willingness to learn vocabulary, read texts, spend time outside lessons listening (to the TV or internet) and to welcome the opportunity to talk to a native speaker as well as to visit the country whose language you are studying.

In addition to the Sixth Form Entry Requirements, you are advised to have studied the language that you wish to take to A-level for GCSE and achieved a grade B (Higher Tier).

A l t h o u g h m a n y languages can be learned from scratch at university, an A2 in a foreign language will be required to enter these courses.

Modern Foreign Languages

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Music

The CourseThere are six modules, three at both AS and A2, which continue to build the skills of performance and composition and develop knowledge and understanding of a range of genres and composers.

At both AS and A2 you will be assessed in performance, compose extended pieces, and learn about harmonisation. You’ll learn about set works to gain a greater knowledge of the techniques composers use to create music and to understand the contextual influences behind compositions.

Assessment30% Externally assessed non-exam performance30% Externally assessed composition40% Externally assessed aural, historical and analytical exam work

Additional OpportunitiesStudents can contribute to a range of performance events, as a soloist or in an ensemble.

Useful Skills and CharacteristicsYou’ll need to be an enthusiastic musician with a desire to extend your knowledge and understanding of music and your musicianship.

You will be an advanced performer, with instrumental or vocal skills equivalent to at least Grade 5 standard.

In addition to the Sixth Form Entry Requirements, at least grade B in GCSE Music is advised, although students may be accepted onto the course if they can demonstrate knowledge of music theory.

Music sits very well alongside both the Sciences and the Arts and Humanities.

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The CourseThe first module is entirely creative and develops skills in sequencing, recording and producing music. There are three practical tasks: a sequenced performance, a multi-track recording and a sequenced arrangement. You will learn to use software and hardware to create and record music.

The second module develops listening skills in relation to popular music, with particular focus on the key features of different genres and the ability to contextualise and critically evaluate the creative use of music technology.

Assessment70% Externally assessed creative Portfolio30% Externally assessed listening examination

Additional OpportunitiesStudents can contribute to a range of performance events, as a performing artist or in the field of live sound.

Useful Skills and CharacteristicsThe course suits those who are enthusiastic about popular music, and interested in understanding the role of the recording engineer, producer, composer and arranger.

You will possess some instrumental or vocal ability together with skills in ICT.

Students will need to enjoy creative projects and have strong personal organisation skills in order to meet tight deadlines.

Students should also be interested to discover a wide range of popular music genres.

In addition to the Sixth Form entry requirements, a grade B in GCSE Music is desirable, although students may be accepted onto the course if they can demonstrate strong ICT skills and some musical ability.

S t u d e n t s w i s h i n g t o p u r s u e S o u n d Production courses or similar at university will find that pairing Music Technology with Physics or ICT is useful.

Music Technology

Physical Education

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The CourseThe course consists of four modules at AS level and three at A-Level.

You will extend your knowledge through studying Anatomy and Exercise Physiology, Skill Acquisition, Sport and Society, Biomechanics and Sport Psychology. You will assessed on your performance or coaching of an activity and also be assessed on your ability to provide a detailed evaluative response to a live sporting performance.

Assessment70% externally set written examination 30% internally assessed practical coursework

Additional OpportunitiesSports Clubs, Sports Leadership opportunities

Useful Skills and CharacteristicsA degree of competence in at least one sport, preferably two.

Regular participation in sport outside of College.

A desire to improve your understanding of how the body and mind influence your ability in sport.

Good presentation and communication skills

In addition to the Sixth Form Entry Requirements, a ‘B’ grade or higher in GCSE PE is advised.

Progression routes include: PE teacher, Physiotherapist, Leisure Management, Sports Development, Personal Trainer, Nutritionist, Sports Journalist.Volunteer opportunities, Sports coaching.The armed services, police and fire service

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The CourseDuring the A Level Physics course (AQA), you’ll progress smoothly from previous GCSE studies in Physics developing an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the principles of Physics. You’ll gain hands-on practical skills and data analysis skills, appreciate how science works studying its relevance beyond the laboratory and see how Physics underpins important technologies.

AssessmentExamination with the opportunity to gain practical endorsement.

Additional OpportunitiesOutside speakers/field trips/group presentations, Café Scientifique.

Useful Skills and CharacteristicsStudents should have a genuine interest in the subject and a desire to further their knowledge in all areas.

Students should have a good understanding of mathematics in order to manipulate equations and process data.

Students should be capable of independent learning and possess problem solving skills. Resilience and determination and a willingness to work hard are essential.

In addition to the Sixth Form Entry Requirements, grades BB from a higher tier entry at GCSE Science and a B in Mathematics are advised. Triple Science would be an advantage.

A Physics qualification will give you access to a range of careers including many forms of Engineering, IT and C o m m u n i c a t i o n s , the Energy industry, Architecture, Teaching.

Physics

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Psychology

The CoursePsychology is the scientific study of the human mind and behaviour. You will develop an understanding of the many underlying factors that influence our behaviour and the consequences that different life events can have on our personality and actions.

The course builds on skills developed in the sciences and humanities, and enables progression into a wide range of other subjects. Psychology will give you an opportunity to learn, understand and evaluate issues happening around you, which can then be applied to the wider world. Psychology offers you the chance to not just study a factual subject but also enables you to reflect on your own experiences.

Assessment100% external examination.

Additional OpportunitiesSocial Science discussion group, London Psychology visit.

Useful Skills and CharacteristicsAn interest in human behaviour.

Willingness to participate in class discussions and work independently. Enthusiasm for the subject coupled with motivation to work hard and good organisational skills.

In addition to the Sixth Form entry requirements, a grade C in Science at GCSE is advised.

There are many careers that will use Psychology directly or in-directly.

Here are a few examples:

Clinical Psychology, Educational Psychologist, Forensic Psychologist, Sports Psychologist, Medicine, Law, Politics, Counselling, Teaching, Police, Probation Service, Nursing, Design careers and many more.

Psychology is offered at the many top universities and A Level Psychology is the first step on the road that can lead to practice as a Psychologist.

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The CourseThis is a two year course and an ideal complement to an Arts, Social Sciences or Pure Sciences A Level course.

There are four modules analysing the deeper concepts underlying the Philosophy of Science and Religion and Reality.

Topics studied include issues that are at the forefront of contemporary thinking: Creation, Psychology, Atheism and Quantum Mechanics.

AssessmentAll units are assessed by end of year module exams.

Useful Skills and CharacteristicsA GCSE in Religious Studies is useful but not essential.

Students who are prepared to question their fundamental belief in what is true.

Students who can think analytically and communicate both orally and in writing.

Students who can think between the lines as well as read between them.

An interest in how things work and why things happen.

The ability to deal with abstract ideas and think about new ideas.

Students need to be organised in their approach to studying and display independent thought and study skills.

At Higher Education s t u d e n t s c o m b i n e Religious Studies with: Phi losophy, E th ics , Psychology, Sociology, or English, amongst other subjects.

Religion and Philosophy

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Sociology

The CourseThe sociology course will give you a strong foundation in both the theoretical world of sociology, and the research methods that are used to study it. You’ll gain an in-depth understanding of education, families and households, societal beliefs, crime and deviance.

Assessment100% external examination.

Useful Skills and CharacteristicsSociology is a subject in which discussion and the exchange of ideas is crucial for understanding. Teaching also includes the use of computers, video presentations, work in alternative forms and debate.

You will develop a wide range of skills including public speaking, essay skills, analytical skills, debating, and designing presentations. You will gain an increased awareness of social groups and people.

In addition to the Sixth Form entry requirements, a B in English is preferred due to the essay based nature of this course.

The class of 2015 went on to study; Law, Nursing, Social Work, Occupational Therapy, Psychology, Criminology, Social Science and Teaching.

Sociology is recognised as being a useful subject for many occupations wh ich requ i re an understanding of people and societal interactions. This includes marketing, business, teaching, law, public services, health services, working with children and social work to name but a few.

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The CourseThe course consists of 6 (one A Level Equivalent) or 12 (two A Level Equivalent) units. Examples of the topics covered are: The Sports Industry, Principles of Sports Coaching, Health Safety in Sport, Nutrition, Exercise Prescription, Advanced Sports Leadership and Sports Facility Management. You might have the opportunity to replace two of the optional units with work experience.

AssessmentThe BTEC National Diploma is equivalent to one or two A Levels and grades are awarded at pass, merit and distinction. All units are assessed by the production of a portfolio which is internally assessed and externally moderated.

Additional OpportunitiesStudents are encouraged to take a wide variety of roles including running inter-house programmes, aiding in the delivery of lower school lessons/clubs and involvement in delivering sport to feeder schools.

Useful Skills and CharacteristicsYou should be self-motivated and have the ability to work to coursework deadlines.

You should enjoy a practical approach to learning. You should be motivated to produce your best work and show good presentation skills.

You should welcome the opportunity to experience a range of different work placements.

Progression routes include: Sport and Exercise Science, Sports Journalism, Teaching/Coaching, Sports Psychology, Business, Police/Firefighting, Social Work

Sport

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Choosing the right course for you can be difficult

If you wish to discuss your course choices,

or wish to find out more about the opportunities

available to you,

please get in touch.