PRINCESS HELENA COLLEGE

SIXTH FORM BOOKLET

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CONTENTS

Welcome to the Sixth Form 3

Sixth Form Life 4

Entry Requirements 5

People here to help you 5

Choosing your subjects 6

A Level Reforms 2015-2017 7

A Level Courses 8

Art & Design 9

Biology 10

Chemistry 11

Classical Civilisation 12

Dance 13

Drama & Theatre Studies 14

Economics 15

English Literature 16

Geography 17

History 18

Mathematics and Further Mathematics 19

Media Studies 20

Modern Foreign Languages 21

Music 22

Photography 23

Physical Education 24

Physics 25

Psychology 26

Religious Studies 27

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WELCOME TO THE SIXTH FORM

We are delighted to welcome you to Princess Helena College and this new exciting phase of your studies.

There is no doubt there is a step up from GCSE to A Level. Everyone at PHC will make your transition as smooth as possible. Alongside your individual Teacher Mentor and passionate subject teachers we will guide, advise and encourage you to ensure you have a fulfilling experience and achieve your academic potential.

Sixth Form students at PHC take their learning seriously and achieve excellent results. Small and personal A Level groups offer collaborative learning, lively discussion and an excellent training for university. In addition our Sixth Form tutors provide detailed UCAS advice and support allowing for a fully comprehensive higher education programme where the majority of students take up a place at their first choice university.

We cherish our Sixth Formers’ talents and you will be a valued member of the School. You will have the opportunity to apply for a Prefect position, take responsibility within our Peer Mentoring Projects and contribute to the local community through our Enrichment Programme. The culture of care and community is one for which PHC is renowned and our Sixth Formers are crucial.

We also realise the importance of independence and you will have the opportunity to get involved in a variety of social activities; these include dinner parties, debates, film nights, trips out and the end of year Ball.

At PHC we aim to excite, enrich and empower you to think independently and grow in confidence, courage and compassion. We ensure you are ready for life after school through our Enrichment and Mentor Programmes and also our Old Girl career talks, national and international internships and work experience.

Our aim is for you to develop the best possible skills and qualifications to succeed in a competitive world, the strength of character to thrive under pressure and self-belief to be a leader in the 21st Century.

We hope the information in this booklet guides you through your A Level choices but also reflects the academic and social opportunities at PHC.

We look forward to meeting you soon.

Ms Lorna McPherson Head of Sixth Form

SIXTH FORM LIFE

YOUR TIMETABLE

You will attend six lessons each week for each AS Level and should expect to spend the same amount of time in private study for each subject.

Your week will also include: Sports, Careers and Physical, Social and Health Education.

Other lessons are on offer to add to your skills set and gain you extra qualifications – Speech and Drama, Music and Dance. Please see our Information Booklet for the full list.

Assemblies and Form Time enable you to share experiences and learning with your peers who may be taking different subjects.

Life Skills, Lectures and Workshops will be included at appropriate points in your academic and personal development.

GAINING LIFE SKILLS

At PHC we strive to provide our girls with more than a good set of academic results, we give them valuable life skills.

In conjunction with the broader curriculum and our SCITLLE programme which provide you with activities, events, lecures and expriences which will help cultivate valuable skills: • Careers and university preparation - including alternative pathways • Curriculum linked activities and lecture programme • Life Skills • Leadership and teamwork development opportunities • Social and cultural events and experiences • Service and volunteering

Many activities are run in conjunction with local boys and co-ed school.

In Year 12 you will also be invited to apply to become a Prefect; these are highly respected positions of responsibility. The application process is rigorous and includes a panel interview and presentation.

SIXTH FORM FACILITIES

At sixteen, girls are looking for something very different from what they wanted at eleven, and so our Sixth Form programme is dedicated to the development of the girls as leaders, role models and positive young women.

Around half the Sixth Form board (either fully, weekly or flexibly). Girls can choose flexi-board-ing as a useful option often taken in the run up to examinations, or when there is a particular event.

The Sixth Form House has a warm and friendly atmosphere with an individual study bedroom for every boarder and dedicated study spaces for the day girls, as well as kitchens, common rooms and an ICT suite.

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ENTRY REQUIREMENTS FOR SIXTH FORMWe expect girls entering the Sixth Form to have achieved a minimum of five GCSEs (including English Language and Mathematics) grade C or above. B grades or higher are required for those subjects you wish to take at AS Level.

Some subjects may be taken at AS Level without having been studied previously and, for these, you are expected to show aptitude in similar subjects.

PEOPLE HERE TO HELP YOU

HeadmistressMrs Wallace-Woodroffeswallacewoodroffe@princesshelenacollege.co.uk

Head of Sixth Form Lorna McPhersonlMcPherson@princesshelenacollege.co.uk

Deputy Head Ms Poston rposton@ princesshelenacollege.co.uk

Assistant Head (Boarding & Pastoral) Mrs Emptagememptage@princesshelenacollege.co.uk

Sixth Form Co-OrdinatorMiss Robertson srobertson@princesshelenacollege.co.uk

Head of Key Stage 4 Mrs Baker cbaker@princesshelenacollege.co.uk

SENCOMr Wrightdwright@princesshelenacollege.co.uk

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CHOOSING YOUR SUBJECTS

Most students study four AS Level subjects in Year 12 and continue with three of these to A Level in Year 13. You will already be investigating future paths in your Careers lessons and will continue to do so during this decision-making process.

The following tips may be of help: • If you know what career you would like to pursue, visit www.ucas.co.uk and search under ‘undergraduate’ for courses that lead to this career. You should find information on subjects that would be useful to have at A Level and the grades they are looking for.

• You could try www.CASCAID.co.uk or www.fasttomato.co.uk, both sites can give valuable help with careers information, subjects required and entry routes into specific careers.

• Talk to your teachers about both careers relating to their subject areas and your prospects at A Level.

If you are still uncertain about your future career, which is quite normal and nothing to be concerned about at this stage, choose subjects that interest you and combine well across the spectrum of subject types; this will enable you to pursue a wider range of university courses in the future.

PHC pupils in Year 11 will be helped in this process by Cambridge Testing which will take place in the Autumn Term.

There are currently twenty AS and A Level subjects on offer at PHC. We try to ensure that you are able to study your chosen subjects; however, as with all Sixth Forms, not every combination of subjects may be possible.

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A LEVEL REFORMS 2015-2017

The way in which A Level subjects are delivered and assessed is undergoing a period of change which began in September 2015. These reforms affect all schools that offer A Levels.

The main features of the reformed A Levels are:

1) AS is being ‘decoupled’ from the main A Level (currently it is worth 50% of your A Level). Post reform the AS is a stand-alone qualification and the marks do NOT contribute towards the new A Level.2) The content of the A Level courses is being modernised by panels of university lecturers so that they provide a basis for university study.3) The grading system will remain the same – A* - E.

THE TIMELINE OF THE NEW A LEVELS

Subjects for first teaching in September 2015: • Art • Economics • Physics • Biology • English Literature • Psychology • Chemistry • History

Subjects for first teaching in September 2016: • Dance • Geography • Religious Studies • Drama • German • Spanish • French • Physical Education

Subjects for first teaching in September 2017: • Classical Civilisation • Mathematics • Further Mathematics • Media Studies

WHAT DOES THAT MEAN FOR YOU?

It is possible that you will be taking a mixture of reformed and unreformed subjects from September 2016. This means that in some subjects, the AS paper will form 50% of your final A Level, and in other cases it will not count towards your final A Level grade.

All subjects in the first wave of the reform of AS and A Level are co-teachable, meaning that if you are taking the full A Level you will be taught in the same class as those taking the AS Level.

CHOICES AND EXAMINATIONS FOR SEPTEMBER 2016:

You should choose three or four subjects to study in Year 12; the decision about which subject to drop may be made during the course of the year, in consultation with your teachers.

AS exams will be available in each of the reformed subjects (see above) and everyone in Year 12 will have the opportunity to sit exams in all subjects in order to monitor progress and help to make decisions about which subjects to continue with into Year 13.

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A LEVEL COURSES

The courses we currently offer are:

• Art & Design (Photography option*) • Biology • Chemistry • Classical Civilisation* • Dance* • Drama & Theatre Studies • Economics* • English Literature • French • Geography • German • History* • Mathematics and Further Mathematics • Media Studies* • Music • Physical Education • Physics • Psychology • Religious Studies • Spanish

The following pages contain information about these courses.

* It is not essential to have studied a GCSE course in these subjects to take them at AS Level.

ART AND DESIGN

There are many benefits of studying art and design, one of the key ones is you will further develop your enjoyment, strengths and interests in art and design through a programme of wide ranging study areas. These include the five disciplines :

• fine art • textiles • graphics • 3D • photography

This is a very popular choice at A Level and we have seen many girls go on to study art based courses at degree level.

AS and A Level art and design is a linear qualification. This means pupils can choose to do a stand-alone 1 year AS course or a stand-alone 2 year A Level course.

The Advanced GCE subsidary is a one year qualification with all work being assessed at the end of the course and then externally moderated. If a pupil decides to do AS and then decides to go on to A Level, the marks achieved at AS will not count towards their A Level grade.

COURSE OUTLINE

EXAMINATION BOARD: Edexcel

AS LEVEL

Component 1: Personal investigation [50%] • A coursework portfolio creating supporting studies and personal outcomes.

Component 2: An externally set assignment [ESA] [50%] • Create supporting studies and personal outcome culminating in a 10 hour examination from a broad thematic starting point.

A LEVEL

Component 1: Personal investigation [60%] • Part 1 – Practical work. A coursework portfolio creating supporting studies and personal outcome. • Part 2 – Personal study. A written piece of research of a minimum 1000 words, worth 12% of your total qualification. The subject explored must link to and be informed by their practical studies. Component 2: An externally set assignment [ESA] [40%] • Create supporting studies and personal outcome culminating in a 15 hour examination from a broad thematic starting point.

Throughout the course, you may have the opportunity to visit galleries and participate in workshops but will be expected to make independent visits alongside these.

Use of the facilities in the Art and Design Centre will be made available to you in personal study time.

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BIOLOGYSuccessful biology students are those who have enjoyed science at GCSE and wish to pursue it further. They are happy with practical investigations, data analysis and can communicate their understanding of scientific ideas.

Assessment at AS Level is by two written papers, including both short and long answer questions. Both papers for AS contain 75 marks, represent 50% of the assessment and both are 1 hour 30 minutes.

Assessment at A Level is through three exam papers all of 2 hours each. Paper 1 and 2 have 91 marks and both represent 35% of the qualification whereas paper 3 is of 78 marks and represents 30%.

COURSE OUTLINE

EXAMINATION BOARD: AQA

AS LEVEL

• Biological molecules • Cells • Organisms exchanging substances with their environment • Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms

A LEVEL

• Biological molecules • Cells • Organisms exchanging substances with their environment • Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms • Energy transfers in and between organisms • Organisms responding to changes in their internal and external environments • Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems • The control of gene expression

WHERE CAN IT LEAD?

A Level biology will enable you to progress to further study at Higher Education, offering a wide choice of careers, including scientific, medical and environmentally related areas.

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CHEMISTRY

Studying A Level chemistry is both interesting and demanding. In order to be successful at this level, it is recommended that students should have obtained a minimum GCSE grade B in chemistry, or B in both science and additional science.

The aims of studying A Level chemistry are to stimulate and sustain an interest in, and enjoyment of, chemistry whilst gaining a knowledge and understanding of the subject and its interlinking patterns. This includes:

• Developing the skills, knowledge and understanding of ‘How Science Works’ • Understanding the link between experiment and theory • Showing the relationship between the development of chemistry and its application

The value of chemistry to society, the appreciation of its responsible use, and knowledge of how different areas of chemistry relate to each other, will be studied. During the course, the ability to select, organise and interpret data and the ability to communicate scientifically in appropriate ways, will be included.

COURSE OUTLINE

EXAMINATION BOARD: AQA

The content at AS Level and A Level are divided between; physical, inorganic and organic chemistry.

AS LEVEL

There are two papers: • 1 hour 30 minutes each worth 50% of the AS with short and long answer questions and multiple choice questions.

There is no longer a practical exam but there will be questions on relevant practical skills within each paper.

A LEVEL

There will be three examination papers.

• Two written exams of 2 hours worth 35% each of the A Level and composed of short and long answer questions. • A written exam of 2 hours worth 30% of the A Level. This is composed of questions on practical techniques and data analysis, questions testing content across the specification, and multiple choice questions.

WHERE CAN IT LEAD?

A Level chemistry is usually a requirement for you if you are intending to study medicine, pharmacy or veterinary science. It also has relevance for many other disciplines, such as the biological sciences, environmental science, astronomy, geological sciences, other physical sciences and even less obvious areas such as archaeology.

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CLASSICAL CIVILISATION

By studying classical civilisation you:

• Develop a broad cultural insight into the classical worlds of 1000 BC to 79AD • Gain a better understanding of the myths, histories, poetry and drama that shape our society, our politics and out literature • Support your analytical and evaluative skills, teaching you to analyse and interpret varied information and present your ideas coherently

The benefits of this course are:

• Simple straightforward assessment, with no coursework • The Classical Civilisation pathway offers flexibility and the opportunity to study the Classical World from various different perspectives: archaeological; historical; cultural; literary. In both the Classical Greek World and Roman World.

Please note that no Latin is required for this qualification, all courses and texts are in English.

COURSE OUTLINE

EXAMINATION BOARD: OCR

During this course students study key aspects of classical Rome and Greece, in depth, analysing at:

AS LEVEL - 2 TOPICS

• ‘City Life in Roman Italy’: This looks at Pompeii, Herculaneum and Ostia in their social, cultural, political and historical contexts. • ‘Greek Tragedy’: This looks at some of the most powerful stories from the ancient world, as they were originally presented on the Greek stage; all three ancient. Greek playwrights are studied, as well as the origins of drama as we now know it.

A LEVEL - 2 TOPICS

• ‘Roman Britain’: Students will study the impact of the Roman invasion on government, economics, society, religion and culture using written and archaeological sources. •’The world of the Hero’: The heroic world of Troy and the foudation of Rome are studied through the stories of Homer’s Iliad and the Aeneid of Virgil.

All units are assessed through a timetabled written examination.

As part of the course, we hope to visit some key museums and participate in appropriate workshops.

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DANCEWe are delighted to offer an exciting course in dance, where students will enjoy creating and studying both choreography and performance.

The course is a dynamic qualification which encourages students to develop their creative, physical, emotional and intellectual capacity, alongside transferable skills such as team work, communication and problem solving.

It is not necessary to have a GCSE in this subject, but you should have an ability to dance in ballet, jazz, or modern dance, with relevant technique, and be prepared and able to analyse this genre in a detailed way.

Over the two years, the course involves solo and group performances and the analytical study and research of a variety of professional dance works and their context.

COURSE OUTLINE

EXAMINATION BOARD: AQA

AS LEVEL

Unit 1 – Performance and choreography • Choreograph and perform a solo • Perform in a duet/trio

Unit 2 – Critical engagement • Knowledge, understanding and critical appreciation of two areas of study • The reflection and understanding of our choreographic and performance practice

A LEVEL

Unit 3 – Performance and choreography • Solo performance linked to a professional practitioner • Performance in a quartet • Group choreography Unit 4 – Critical engagement • Knowledge, understanding and critical appreciation of two set works

This A Level will be hard work, but it will also be a rewarding and challenging two years.

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DRAMA AND THEATRE STUDIES

A Level drama and theatre studies students are expected to be confident, able performers with excellent analytical and evaluative skills. Taking GCSE drama is ofbenefit, but is not imperative (as long as drama has been pursued in an extra curricular way).

We do ask for a minimum grade B in GCSE English Language and Literature, as the course is essay based and involves much analysis of text. Although we explore each text practically, thoughts and realisations from the workshops must be recorded accurately and expressively.

COURSE OUTLINE

EXAMINATION BOARD: WJEC

AS LEVEL

Unit 1 - Performance workshop • Perform an extract from a set text • Perform their own devised piece • Incorporate the work of two established theatre practitioners

Unit 2 - Text in performance • Written examination • One pre-1900 text and one post-1900 text • Live theatre review

A LEVEL

Unit 3 - Performance on a set theme • Prepare two performances in response to a theme set by the board • Evaluation of each performance

Unit 4 - Text in context • Written examination • One pre-1900 text and one post-1900 text • Directorial analysis of an unseen text

Drama and theatre studies can be a lovely compliment to studying English and classics, given the nature of the texts chosen; but also the history, given the contextual knowledge needed; dance given the use of performance, space, movement, levels etc; languages, as some of the plays are translated from other languages, the list goes on!

WHERE CAN IT LEAD?

By following such a course, students can progress to university or drama school, and then into careers in performance, stage-management and stage-design, as well as behind the scenes work in other performance-related careers, such as in film and dance. The subject also leads naturally to jobs requiring communications skills, such as public relations or teaching.

ECONOMICSEconomics is about choice and the impact of our choices on each other. It relates to every aspect of our lives, from the decisions we make as individuals or families to the structures created by governments and firms.

By studying economics you are beginning the process of gaining an understanding about the exciting and ever-changing international world of business. You will have the opportunity to research into topical issues, relating to economic events and policies, and understand your role in a modern society.

COURSE OUTLINE

AS LEVEL

AS Level economics is structured into two themes and consists of two externally examined papers.

Theme 1 – ‘Introduction to markets and market failure’ • This theme focuses on microeconomic concepts, including how markets work, market failure and government intervention.

Theme 2 – ‘The UK economy, performance and policies’ • This theme focuses on macroeconomic concepts, including national income, economic growth and macroeconomic policies.

A LEVEL

A Level economics is structured into four themes and consists of three externally examined papers.

Theme 1 and 2 are the same as AS Level.

Theme 3 – ‘Business behaviour and labour market’ • This theme focuses on business economics, including business growth, market structures and the labour market.

Theme 4 – ‘A global perspective’ • This theme develops macroeconomic concepts and applies them to a global context, including poverty and inequality, emerging and developing economies and the role of the state.

WHERE CAN IT LEAD?

Studying economics can equip you to participate in the interdependent global economy of the twenty-first century.

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ENGLISH LITERATUREThe study of English Literature is an incredibly enriching experience that fosters many valuable, transferable skills: close textual analysis, reading with discrimination, arguing a point of view with the support of evidence, articulating preferences.

AS and A Level English Literature students enjoy reading, are comfortable discussing their ideas in small groups and are competent essay writers.

Our small class sizes mean that lessons are often similar to tutorials or seminars.

COURSE OUTLINE

EXAMINATION BOARD: Edexcel

AS LEVEL

Component 1 – Written examination on Poetry and Drama (worth 60% of the total marks) •A comparative essay on two poems from the text, Poems of the Decade: ‘An Anthology of the Forward Books of Poetry 2002 – 2011’. •An essay focused on tragedy in John Webster’s, ‘The Duchess of Malfi’.

Component 2 – Written examination on Prose (worth 40% of the total) •An essay comparing two prescribed novels with a similar theme e.g. Women in Society in Thomas Hardy’s, ‘Tess of the D’Urbevilles’ and Emily Bronte’s, ‘Wuthering Heights.’

A LEVEL

Component 1 – Written examination on Shakespeare and Drama (worth 30% of the total) •Two essay questions on prescribed plays e.g. Shakespeare’s ‘King Lear ‘ and building on the text studied for AS.

Component 2 – Written examination on Prose (worth 20% of the total) •An essay comparing two prescribed novels with a similar theme. The texts studied here are the same as those at AS but at a higher level.

Component 3 – Written examination on Poetry (worth 30% of the total) •An essay comparing a previously unseen poem with one selected from the studied text. •An essay on a prescribed selection of poetry. Component 4 – Coursework (worth 20% of the total) •An essay of 2500 – 3000 words comparing an aspect of two texts.

WHERE CAN IT LEAD?

English Literature is a highly respected A Level. Our students frequently show an interest in pursuing the subject further at university, either on its own or in a combination with other subjects.

English is an A Level that is often valued by a variety of employers.

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GEOGRAPHYIf you are are curious about the world in which you live, are dynamic and forward thinking, logical and creative, geography will suit you.

During the course you will develop case study material in class and conduct fieldwork visits, as well as local day trips, in preparation for your investigation examination.

COURSE OUTLINE

EXAMINATION BOARD: Edexcel

AS LEVEL

Unit 1 – ‘Dynamic Landscapes’ •This unit investigates ‘Tectonic Processes and Hazards’ and ‘Coastal Processes and Change.’ Fieldwork relating to coastal processes will be undertaken.

Unit 2 – ‘Dynamic Places’ •This unit allows students to investigate ‘Globalisation’ and ‘Regenerating places’. Fieldwork relating to regenerating places will be undertaken.

These units have a focus on research and fieldwork skills; you will undertake at least four days of fieldwork as well as using ICT, such as ‘Geographical Information Systems.’ This will consist of two days investigating ‘Coastal Processes and Change’ and two days investigating ‘Regenerating Places.’

A LEVEL

Unit 3 – ‘Physical Systems and Sustainability’ •Girls will study ‘The Water Cycle and Water Insecurity’, ‘The Carbon Cycle and Energy Insecurity ‘and ‘Climate Change Futures’.

Unit 4 – ‘Human Systems and Geopolitics’ •This unit covers ‘Superpowers’, ‘Health, Human Rights and Intervention’ and ‘Migration, Identity and Sovereignty’.

Unit 5 – ‘Coursework ‘ •Girls will produce an independent investigation of 3000-4000 words, which will draw on the fieldwork results from the Year 12 field trip.

WHERE IT CAN LEAD?

Through studying geography, you can go on to enter a range of careers from logistics within a large company to working on small development projects in an exciting country, anywhere in the world.

According to the latest information from the Higher Education Careers Services Unit, only 5.8% of geography graduates were still job hunting six months after they graduated, against an average of 7.3%.

HISTORYHistory is a universal humanities subject, part art and part science, which welcomes you if you love stories of heroes and villains, but at this level they can take on bigger issues – such as race, religion, economics and political history. It overlaps with practically everything and trains the mind in handling and structuring detail, broad outlooks, human insights and human frailties.

You can write and use a range of research tools including; books, the internet, film; even integrate music, art, statistics and science into their historical views. You can see two sides to an argument and defend your own viewpoint.

COURSE OUTLINE

EXAMINATION BOARD: OCR

AS LEVEL

Unit 1 – ‘England Under the Early Tudors 1485-1558’ with an enquiry topic of the Mid-Tudor Crisis 1547-1558.

Unit 2 – ‘Italy 1896-1943’– a study of Italy struggling under infant democracy and then dictatorship under Mussolini.

A LEVEL

Unit 3 – ‘Russia and its Rulers’ 1855-1964: the transition of Russia from C19th tsarism through revolution to C20th communism.

Unit 4 – A research project preparing students for university, with candidates choosing from any country and period, using primary and secondary sources.

WHERE CAN IT LEAD?

History qualifies you for anything other than medicine, science and civil or mechanical engineering. It teaches you the skills of presentation in writing, on a board or in person, of complex ideas, arguments and theories.

Careers after studying history include law, business, media, government, politics and practical based management roles.

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MATHEMATICSMathematics is a subject for all of our futures, and is unique in that it provides you with the tools for tackling a growing range of real world problems in the twenty-first century but can also be studied purely for pleasure and the joy of discovery.

The new A Level linear specification will be delivered for the first time in 2017. Therefore, if you are a 2016-17 prospective A Level student, you will follow the existing specification which focuses upon a modular course of study for the full two years. This means that you will be unaffected by the new syllabus when it is delivered for the first time in 2017.

COURSE OUTLINE

AS LEVEL A LEVEL

Module C1 - Core Mathematics 1 Module C3 - Core Mathematics 3Module C2- Core Mathematics 2 Module C4 - Core Mathematics 4Module S1 -Statistics 1 Module D1 - Decision Mathematics 1

WHERE CAN IT LEAD?

Although A Level Mathematics is a natural pre-requisite for a degree course in the subject, it is also being increasingly viewed by higher education establishments as an important discriminator when choosing suitable candidates for a university place.

Employers are also realising the benefits of recruiting from those with a firm grounding in Mathematics, and career opportunities such as those existing in finance, actuarial science, accounting, the natural sciences, medicine, computing and engineering are becoming more readily available for those with a passion and aptitude for the subject.

Further Mathematics, while not essential for entry onto a mathematics degree course, provides a very important introduction to a number of the topics that will be taught in the first year of such a course. These include complex numbers, differential equations, series, proof by mathematical induction, polar coordinates, the conic sections and matrix algebra. Many of those topics are desirable pre-requisites in many modern careers, and are likely to be even more so in future years.

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MEDIA STUDIESIn media studies, you study films, television, magazines, newspapers and advertisements; you will also have the opportunity to create your own examples of media products.

You will find media studies great fun and the department has a record of candidates achieving high grades in the subject. It is worth remembering that media studies is not a soft option: although the material being studied may be more familiar than you might find in English, the level of analytical skills required is very similar.

You should have an interest in watching films and television programmes. It also helps if you are interested in modern culture, show artistic appreciation, and are comfortable using ICT packages in order to create your own media products, such as advertisements or magazines.

The examinations are essay based and candidates would normally be expected to have at least a grade B in English Language and Literature at GCSE as a pre-requisite for the course.

COURSE OUTLINE

EXAMINATION BOARD: WJEC

AS LEVEL

Unit 1 – ‘Media Representations and Responses’ •A written paper of essay questions.

Unit 2 – ‘Production Processes’ •A coursework task where candidates create a media product (an advert, short film, magazine extract or the like) with an explanatory commentary.

A LEVEL

Unit 3 – ‘Investigation and Production’ •A coursework task where candidates investigate an aspect of media (e.g. the representation of women in beer advertisements) and create their own product to exemplify this aspect.

Unit 4 – ‘Text, Industry and Audience’ •A written paper of essay questions.

WHERE CAN IT LEAD?

Some girls go on to study media or related disciplines at university.

Media Studies is a fully accepted A Level by universities and counts towards UCAS point scores just the same as any other subject.

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MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGESBy studying a Modern Foreign Language, you enhance your analytical, interpretive and cognitive capacities; you build multi-tasking skills; you develop greater self confidence; and have a more informed understanding of the world. Languages also provide an opportunity to discover different cultures, people, customs, and make travelling and living abroad more fulfilling.

You should study a language if you are keen to discover how the language works, areactively involved in the language learning process, are aware of the close relationship between language and culture, and are realistic in realising that it takes time and practice to learn a language.

COURSE OUTLINE

EXAMINATION BOARD: AQA

AS LEVEL

Topics vary slightly depending on which language you study, as there is now greater focus on the countries and communities where the target language is spoken.

Example of study: •Current trends •Youth Culture • Cyberspace •The changing nature of family •Cultural life in Berlin •A film •Spanish regional identity •Contemporary Francophone music •Artistic culture in the French/ Spanish/German speaking world

Paper 1 - listening, reading and translation into EnglishPaper 2 - translation into chosen language and an essay on a book or film studied Speaking - Discussion based on stimulus cards for two themes

A LEVEL

Example of study: •Life for the marginalised in French-speaking communities •Multiculturalism in German-speaking and Hispanic society •Politics and immigration in French-speaking communities •Monarchies, republics and dictatorships in the Hispanic world •You will also study a book

Paper 1 - listening, reading and translation into your chosen languagePaper 2 - essay paper based on the books/ film studiedSpeaking - Individual research project and discussion based on a stimulus card

Throughout the course you will be advised to access foreign television, reading material, music and films. You will also be encouraged to attend student conferences and participate in trips abroad to the target language country to strengthen linguistic and cultural knowledge.

WHERE CAN IT LEAD?

With the globalisation of businesses and the population growing increasingly cosmopolitan, competence in a modern foreign language is becoming an increasingly desirable skill.

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MUSICStudying music at AS/A Level is ideal for anyone who has a keen interest in performing, creating and listening to different styles of music, and follows on well from the activities at GCSE level.

COURSE OUTLINE

EXAMINATION BOARD: Edexcel

AS LEVEL

Component 1: Performing (externally assessed) • Perform as a soloist or part of an ensemble – any instrument or voice - in a recital of six minutes.

Component 2: Composing (externally assessed) • Two compositions from a set brief, totalling four and a half minutes, completed under controlled conditions.

Component 3: Appraising (1 hour 30 minute paper, externally assessed) • Listening and written paper on pieces from six areas of study, involving instrumental and vocal music of different styles.

A LEVEL

Component 4: Performing (externally assessed) •Perform as a soloist or as part of an ensemble in a 11-18 minute recital.

Component 5: Composing (externally assessed) •Two compositions to set briefs lasting at least 6 minutes.

Component 6: Appraising (2 hour paper, externally assessed) •Listening and written paper on pieces from six areas of study. These are; instrumental music, music for film, popular music and jazz, fusions, new directions.

WHERE CAN IT LEAD?

You could study music to degree level at university or at one of the music colleges; there are courses that specialise in music technology, pop, jazz or theatre, as well as more traditional courses.

An academic qualification in music is essential for any form of career in music, such as performing, teaching or music therapy, but it can also be used in areas such as journalism, publishing, arts management, recording, broadcasting, etc. and is helpful for dance and theatre work.

PHOTOGRAPHY

Photography is an endorsement of the GCE A Level. The course aims to develop your enjoyment, strengths and interests in photography through a programme of wide ranging study areas.

This is a very popular choice at A Level and we have seen many girls go on to study art based courses at degree level.

AS and A Level photography is a linear qualification. This means pupils can choose to do a stand-alone 1 year AS course or a stand-alone 2 year A Level course.

The Advanced GCE subsidary is a one year qualification with all work being assessed at the end of the course and then externally moderated. If a pupil decided to do the AS and then decides to go on to A Level, the marks achieved at AS will not count towards their A Level grade.

COURSE OUTLINE

EXAMINATION BOARD: Edexcel

AS LEVEL

Component 1: Personal investigation [60%] • A coursework portfolio creating supporting studies and personal outcomes.

Component 2: An externally set assignment [ESA] [40%] • Create supporting studies and personal outcome culminating in a 10 hour examination from a broad thematic starting point.

A LEVEL

Component 1: Personal investigation [60%] • Part 1 – Practical Work. A coursework portfolio creating supporting studies and personal outcome. • Part 2 – Personal Study. A written piece of research of a minimum 1000 words, worth 12% of your total qualification. The subject explored must link to and be informed by their practical studies. Component 2: An externally set assignment [ESA] [40%] • Create supporting studies and personal outcome culminating in a 15 hour examination from a broad thematic starting point.

Throughout the course, you will have the opportunity to visit galleries and exhibitions but will be expected to make independent visits.

Use of the facilities in the Photography Centre will be made available to you in personal study time.

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PHYSICAL EDUCATIONThe study of physical education at AS and A Level provides you with the learning experiences to enhance your own understanding of performance by learning in, about, and through physical activities.

Theoretical aspects, including physiology, psychology, methods of training, nutrition and social issues, will give you a chance to improve your performance.

Physical Education students should have a real enthusiasm for the subject and a desire to improve their practical performance. They should also be interested in leading a healthy life, officiating or coaching, how movement occurs, topical issues connected with sport and the psychology needed to be a winner.

Lessons will be a combination of practical activities and theory. A variety of resources will be used, including newspapers and DVDs, and students will have the opportunity to see and analyse video recordings of their own performances.

COURSE OUTLINE

EXAMINATION BOARD: AQA

AS LEVEL

Unit 1 – (70%) ‘Factors affecting participation in physical activity and sport’

Unit 2 – (30%) A practical assessment, as a performer, official or coach and a written/verbal analysis of performance.

A LEVEL

Unit 3 – (70%) ‘Factors affecting optimal performance in physical activity and sport’

Unit 4 – (30%) A practical performance in one of the roles of performer or coach, this includes observation, analysis and evaluation of performance.

Assessment is by one written examination, a practical performance and a piece of coursework, involving observing, analysing and evaluating performance.

WHERE CAN IT LEAD?

Opportunities for students with an A Level in physical education are developing rapidly. Many students go on to university to study the subject in more depth.

Careers in physiotherapy, sports therapy, sports management, sports psychology, sports nutrition or coaching are now very popular.

Physical educationists are also needed in the world of sports administration and teaching/lecturing.

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PHYSICSPhysics is for people who take a real interest in the world around them, those who have enquiring minds and want to understand why things are the way they are. It is important that you have a general interest in science and that you are willing to learn new skills and techniques.

Ideally, you should have gained at least a B for physics (or a B for both science and additional science) and a B for mathematics at GCSE. It is desirable, though not essential, to be studying mathematics at AS Level.

The philosophy of physics is to learn by direct experience and to encourage the desire to find out. Consequently, there is an important practical element to the course. Teaching styles are varied with an emphasis on relevance and key roles in today’s technological society.

COURSE OUTLINE

EXAMINATION BOARD: AQA

AS LEVEL

•Topic 1 - Measurements and their errors •Topic 2 - Particles and radiation •Topic 3 - Waves •Topic 4 - Mechanics and materials •Topic 5 - Electricity

Assessment is by two written papers, comprising of multiple choice and structured questions.

A LEVEL

•Topic 6 - Further mechanics and thermal physics •Topic 7 - Fields and their consequences •Topic 8 - Nuclear physics •Topic 9 - One option from Astrophysics/Medical physics/Engineering physics/ Turning points in physics/Electronics

Assessment is by three written papers, comprising of multiple choice and structured questions.

WHERE CAN IT LEAD?

Physics lies at the very heart of technology and engineering, and universities regard it highly for entry to many degree courses.

Related job areas include: engineering, astronomy, computer programming, dentistry, electronics, medical physics, medicine, meteorology, physiotherapy, radiography and telecommunications.

PSYCHOLOGYPsychology is the scientific study of human behaviour and thought. It offers the opportunity for you to consider a wide range of issues relating to our experience of self and our understanding of others.

Lessons are varied and require good participation and discussion from students. An enquiring mind and a willingness to work are key to success.

A good set of GCSE results is required, including at least a B grade in both English and mathematics. Whilst there is only a small amount of mathematics involved, candidates should be comfortable handling data; they should also be able to express themselves clearly in writing.

Psychology is a popular A Level option as it can combine easily with many other subjects, particularly biology and sports science. You will enjoy psychology if you like considering issues of human behaviour, like reading, and also enjoy thinking in a scientific way.

COURSE OUTLINE

EXAMINATION BOARD: AQA

AS LEVEL

During the AS Level year, students study a range of psychological perspectives including; cognitive, social, developmental and biological psychology.

Some of the topics include: •Obedience to figures of authority, minority and majority influence •Memory and the accuracy of eye-witness testimony •The development of attachments in babies and the effects of day care •Stress; approaches to abnormality and therapies

Students also learn how to design, carry out and report simple investigations.Assessment is by two 90 minute written papers, including short answer questions and questions requiring more extended writing.

A LEVEL

At A Level, there is a more in-depth study of psychopathology plus a range of options which include the study of gender, perception and biological rhythms. Students continue to study research methods plus one contemporary issue which relates psychological research to current issues in society; the issue that we study is the psychology of media.

Assessment is by two written papers, one 90 minutes, the second 2 hours; both papers are essay based. There is no coursework requirement.

WHERE CAN IT LEAD?

Psychology is now one of the most popular degree choices at university. A degree in psychology can lead to working as a professional psychologist in the fields of education, health or business, but it is also of relevance for people who intend to work in any field where an understanding of human behaviour is valuable.

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RELIGIOUS STUDIESTo succeed in this course not only do you need to enjoy debating you also need to be good at essay writing.

The ability to read around the subject is another requirement of the subject and a willingness to investigate philosophical and ethical issues is a characteristic of the successful pupil.

COURSE OUTLINE

EXAMINATION BOARD: Edexcel

AS LEVEL: A LEVEL:

Unit 1 - Developments Unit 1 - Foundations Unit 2 - Investigations Unit 2 - Indications

Religious Studies at A Level is divided into two sections: •’The Philosophy of Religion’ We study a variety of arguments for the existence of God. You will be expected to grapple intellectually with these various arguments; their weaknesses and strengths and evaluate how convincing you find them.

•’Ethics’ We look at both religious and secular ethics and debate the relevance of both for the twenty-first century. Where do our morals and values come from? Part of the Ethics course is an application of ethical ideas to medical ethics; this part of the course allows you to explore contemporary issues in society.

Classroom resources include film, literature and sound. You will also attend Sixth Form conferences on a regular basis in London and Cambridge.

The Religious Studies Department aims to organise tours to Europe, India and the Middle East. Girls studying religious studies at this level find such tours particularly helpful inbroadening their knowledge and understanding of faith.

WHERE CAN IT LEAD?

An A Level in this subject is useful in any career where an understanding and sensitivity to people is important. It fosters an appreciation of the influence beliefs and values can have on individuals and communities. It also develops the skills needed to analyse ideas, evaluate evidence and arrive at well thought out judgements. The skills developed through the study of philosophy and ethics would be beneficial to any profession which requires confidence in decision making and reasoning.

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PRINCESS HELENA COLLEGEPRESTON, HERTFORDSHIRE, SG4 7RT

For further information please contact our registrar, Mrs Heather Baim:

registrar@princesshelenacollege.co.uk