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SIXTH FORMYour journey to independence

Queen Margaret’s offers a choice of 30 A Levels, independent living in your final year, personal Tutors and many enrichment and leadership opportunities to provide you with the best possible stepping stone to life beyond School.

Girls leave QM with outstanding A Level results and places at the country’s leading universities. They thrive in a supportive and happy environment and aspire to be leaders in all walks of life.

SIXTH FORM AT QUEEN MARGARET’S IS A TRULY EXPERIENCE. unique

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YOUR QUEEN MARGARET’S

Queen Margaret’s outstanding A Level results, excellent university destinations and Old Margaretians’ impressive range of careers stem from our personalised approach.

You have a choice of 30 different A Level courses, around which the School’s timetable is created. This allows you to have the ability to fully align your subject options with your abilities, interests and future aspirations.

QM’s outstanding, dedicated and supportive academic staff will take you beyond the curriculum and encourage you to challenge and question, with emphasis increasingly on becoming an independent freethinker and decision maker. Relationships with staff will be based on trust and mutual respect as you will be treated as an adult.

You will choose three subjects from the following list that you will follow for two years. Depending on other commitments you may choose to take a fourth subject. Subject information can be found later in this booklet.

Your academic journey

• Art: Fine Art• Art: Photography• Art: Textile Design• Art: Graphic Design• Biology• Business• Chemistry• Classical Civilisation• Classical Greek• Drama and Theatre• Economics

• English Language• English Literature• Geography• Government and Politics• History• History of Art• Latin• Mandarin• Mathematics• Further Mathematics

• MFL: French• MFL: German• MFL: Spanish• Music• Philosophy and Ethics• Physical Education• Physics• Psychology• Extended Project Qualification

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Your boarding journeyCLOISTERSQueen Margaret’s Sixth Form boarding offers a greater degree of independence than boarding lower down the School.

Recently refurbished, Cloisters offers you modern loft style living with twin study bedrooms, common rooms, a laundry room, a large café and garden terrace. In LVI, with the support of house staff, you will take responsibility for planning your time and developing a more independent style of learning and living.

THE COTTAGESLife in the Upper Sixth at Queen Margaret’s is unique. The accommodation and management of boarding in your final year is very different from all other schools and equips you for the next step of your journey.

You will live in single study bedrooms in The Cottages, a series of period homes arranged along ‘Main Street’ running from Escrick Hall to the gates of Escrick village. There you will share your home with a small group of friends. All the kitchens have cooking facilities and provisions are supplied for breakfasts, however the Dining Hall is available. Washer dryers are provided for your laundry and the sitting rooms are equipped with televisions, printers and Wi-Fi connectivity.

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journeyYOUR QUEEN MARGARET’S

We are a school that encourages every girl to pursue her interests confidently; girls at Queen Margaret’s are recognised for their willingness to try everything that life has to offer them. The QM Diploma can complement your academic curriculum by formally recognising your extracurricular achievements.

Whether your interests lie in Sport, Music, Drama, Dance, debating or adventure, you will find pockets of excellence and chances to shine throughout QM. Being in the Sixth Form also opens up many further enrichment opportunities including Queen Margaret’s Prince’s Trust enterprise based business initiative and The Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award. Furthermore, there is flexibility with your free time to explore York, exercise in the Cardio Suite or unwind in Cellars, a social hub for Sixth Form girls.

Hone your skills in leadership with many roles and responsibilities available in your final year including Senior Prefect or House Captain roles, or run one of QM’s clubs, societies or events.

Your journey beyond the curriculum

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Your journey toYorkQueen Margaret’s offers international students the traditional British boarding experience with the academic rigour and supportive environment that will prepare girls for their next step.

Due to our horizontal boarding system and with students from over 15 different nationalities, our international girls integrate extremely well and build lifelong friendships. Alongside the many enrichment opportunities on offer, international girls can be part of the International Council that organises events throughout the year for the whole QM family to celebrate many cultural festivals.

The historic City of York is just minutes away providing girls with the opportunity to experience theatres, art galleries, cinemas, shopping, a variety of museums and the famous walls that date from the twelfth century. Within Yorkshire, girls can experience beautiful British landscapes including coastline and three national parks. London and Edinburgh are just two hours away by direct train.

To enhance Higher Education applications, our international students who wish to apply for university in the UK and who do not have GCSE English Language at the required grade will be given the opportunity to study for a qualification in English as an Additional Language (such as IELTS) in addition to their A Level programme. Tuition will be provided at an appropriate cost. Conversation Club is also available and open to all.

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During Sixth Form Queen Margaret’s will help you to reflect meaningfully on your personal interests, strengths, preferences and goals to ensure that the next step of your journey runs smoothly. A programme of expert talks, information events and fairs runs alongside personal Tutor guidance with one to one weekly meetings. Your Tutor will oversee your academic programme, enrichment activities, time management and preparations for your next step including Higher Education, gap years, alternative pathways and your future career. Striking the right balance is demanding yet it enables QM to turn out articulate, caring and motivated young women. Your Tutor will also act as the primary contact for parents.

If you have a specific degree course or career in mind, choose your subjects wisely to ensure that you fulfil the entry requirements. Further information can be found at ucas.com. Alternatively, if you are undecided, information regarding the university destinations of previous QM girls can be found at queenmargarets.com.

Your Future journey

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BUSINESS

Course ContentThere will be three examination papers assessing the following:• What is business?• Managers, leadership and decision making• Decision making to improve marketing performance• Decision making to improve operational performance• Decision making to improve financial performance• Decision making to improve human resource performance• Analysing the strategic position of a business• Choosing strategic direction• Strategic methods: how to pursue strategies• Managing strategic change.

What Prior Knowledge Do I Need? You do not need to have studied Business at GCSE but you do need to enjoy manipulating and analysing numerical information. Views from the Sixth Form at QM“The most useful subject for the rest of my life.”“Lessons are about the real world.”“All jobs are for a business!” Additional InformationAn interest in business is essential. Students are expected to keep up to date with current affairs and read/watch the business news frequently. We liaise with a number of local businesses. External speakers visit students and throughout the course girls will be expected to purchase relevant publications to support their studies.

Syllabus AQA

CHEMISTRY

Course Content• Development of Practical Skills in Chemistry• Foundations in Chemistry• Periodic Table and Energy• Core Organic Chemistry• Physical Chemistry and Transition Elements• Organic Chemistry and Analysis.

What Prior Knowledge Do I Need? A good grade in GCSE Chemistry or in the Chemistry element of GCSE Combined Science, an enthusiasm for practical work and a desire to read around the subject.

Views from the Sixth Form at QM“Chemistry doesn’t mean just sitting and listening; we’re always involved in the lesson and do fun practical work!”“It’s not all out of a textbook - I enjoy taking risks!”“All hands on!”“Practical work is awesome!” Additional InformationReading Chemistry Review on a regular basis and joining the RSC ChemNet are both advised. Attendance at Science Society lectures is expected. SyllabusOCR Syllabus A

This subject develops candidates’ research, numerical and communication skills and it gives a broad commercial awareness. There are around 5000 degree courses available.It is a vocational course so you could set up your own business after School.

It is essential to study A Level Chemistry if you wish to apply for Medicine, Veterinary Science and many other Science and Engineering courses. It is an excellent subject to help you to develop a wide range of skills, both practical and cognitive, and it will give you an appreciation of how this branch of science can contribute to the success of the economy and society at large.

ART AND DESIGN

Girls can choose to study Fine Art, Photography, Textile Design or Graphic Design. Course ContentThe LVI course for these subjects is designed to improve observational skills, the refinement and development of work through a process where risk taking and an experimental approach is encouraged. Girls will learn how to use sketchbooks in order to develop ideas and solutions to their topic choices. In the UVI girls are assessed via one coursework topic and a 15 hour final practical examination. As part of the coursework assessment girls will be expected to research for and write an essay of not less than 1000 words.

What Prior Knowledge Do I Need?The main qualities that we look for are an interest in the subject, enthusiasm and a willingness to learn. We expect that photographers will have very little prior experience.

Views from the Sixth Form at QM “Art is a passion of mine so it doesn’t feel like work.”“I feel very prepared for my Art Foundation.”

Additional InformationStudents will attend gallery visits and participate in life drawing for one hour per week. Towards the end of the course girls are given every assistance in the preparation of folders for Art Foundation applications.

SyllabusOCR

BIOLOGY

Course Content• Cells, Biological Molecules• Exchange and Transport• Biodiversity, Evolution and Disease• Communication, Homeostasis and Energy• Genetics, Evolution and Ecosystems• Development of Practical Skills in Biology.

What Prior Knowledge Do I Need?A good grade in GCSE Biology or in the Biology element of GCSE Combined Science.

Additional InformationWe encourage Sixth Form students to read Biological Sciences Review and arrange for interesting external speakers through the Science Society. Fieldwork trips also form part of the Biology curriculum.

Views from the Sixth Form at QM“ I really enjoyed Biology and decided to apply for a Biology related degree course!”“I had the opportunity to do dissections, it was brilliant.”

SyllabusOCR Syllabus A

You will find Art and Design essential if you intend to pursue a career in Art or Design. You will be encouraged to develop the kind of creative and imaginative thinking that underpins a wide range of career choices and be taught how to think differently and develop visual literacy skills.

It is the study of living things. It is important if you wish to apply for Medicine, Veterinary Science, Nursing or other Biology related courses. It is useful if you are considering studying any other Science course at university and it is accepted as a suitable A Level for entry into Humanities and Arts courses.


DRAMA AND THEATRE

Course ContentIn LVI you will study a range of drama styles and techniques that will be applied to your own practical work. You will attend live theatre that will serve as inspiration for your own work and will also be the focus for written evaluations. In LVI there will be mock runs of devised drama performances and scripted performances. Two set texts will also be studied from the perspective of an actor, director or designer and these will be the focus for written work although most lessons will be practical and require an active body as well as an active mind.

In UVI you will complete three assessments:• Devised Performance (40%) - Performance and evaluation of a unique and original performance inspired by a drama text created by the group • Scripted Performance (20%) - From a chosen text you will perform a group piece, monologue and duologue• Written Examination (40%) - This will test your understanding of two set texts and a live theatre performance.

What Prior Knowledge Do I Need? It is not vital to have studied GCSE Drama but an interest in Drama and Theatre is strongly recommended. You must be willing to work with others and be prepared to use your performance skills. You may wish to focus on the design aspects of theatre, such as costume and set design.

Views from the Sixth Form at QM“We have particularly enjoyed the theatre trips.”“I would like to be a lawyer, and am finding that the course has helped me with my presentation and communication skills.”

Additional InformationWe encourage you to participate in School productions.

SyllabusEdexcel

ECONOMICS

Course ContentFour teaching themes are assessed via three examination papers. The four themes include:• Introduction to Markets and Market Failure - Microeconom-ics nature of economics, looking at economic problems and the ways economists think and work • The UK Economy (performance and policies) - Macroeconomics nature of economics, looking at the key measures of economic performance and the main instruments of economic policy • Business Behaviour and the Labour Market • A Global Perspective.

Paper 1: Markets and Business BehaviourPaper 2: The National and Global EconomyPaper 3: Microeconomics and Macroeconomics.

What Prior Knowledge Do I Need? You do not need to have studied GCSE Economics, but you do need excellent mathematical skills and you must enjoy manipulating and analysing statistical information. Independent study is expected and you must be keen to follow the news and read newspapers and journals.

Views from the Sixth Form at QM “It’s both interesting and informative.”“The topics are really relevant to everyday life.”

Additional Information During the course we hear from visiting speakers and organise a field trip. Throughout the course students will be required to purchase relevant publications to support their studies.

SyllabusEdexcel Syllabus A

Drama and Theatre will improve your communication and presentation skills, along with your self-confidence and ability to work as part of a team. Your knowledge of all things theatrical will grow significantly.

Economics can be combined with a wide range of other subjects. It will give you two main things: knowledge about how societies solve economic problems and a set of analytical skills which can be built on and used throughout the rest of your life.

CLASSICAL CIVILISATION

Course ContentThe A Level includes three papers:• The World of the Hero - You will explore two epic stories. The Odyssey is one of the earliest books ever composed telling the story of Odysseus. This is then compared with the Aeneid, a Roman re-telling of what happens after the Trojan War. These two stories have inspired generations and you will be meeting some of the most iconic characters in world literature• Greek Theatre - In this paper you will read three powerful and dramatic plays. Oedipus the King is regarded as the most perfect example of a tragic play, the magnificent Bacchae explores the relationship between gods and men and in complete contrast, a comedy, The Frogs. You will learn about the ancient Greek theatre itself, and how and when plays were performed• Greek Religion - You will study the religion and beliefs of the ancient Greeks learning the stories of the various gods and goddesses, but also about how these gods impacted on the everyday life of the Greeks.

What Prior Knowledge Do I Need? Anyone can enjoy this subject: you do not need to have studied Classical Civilisation at any level before. This course will appeal to you if you enjoy discussing the big subjects of life: love, hate, and death.

Views from the Sixth Form at QM“It’s fun and fantastic and the jokes are really rude.”“You learn analytical skills which are useful in other subjects and the modules are all very different, so you get a real variety.”

Additional InformationTeaching is shared by the different members of the Department. We aim to take students out to see at least one play and to attend one study day each year.

SyllabusOCR

CLASSICAL GREEK

Course ContentThe A Level includes four papers:• Unseen Translation (33%) - You will continue to develop your language skills learned at GCSE and practise furthertranslation from Greek into English• Prose Composition or Comprehension (17%) - You will consolidate your knowledge of the Greek language and will have the choice of either answering comprehension questions on a passage of Greek or translating a short paragraph ofEnglish into Greek • Prose Literature (25%) - You will study an extract from the work of Thucydides, one of the greatest historians who everlived. In Book IV of the History of the Peloponnesian War you will read his dramatic account of the unexpected Athenian victory at Pylos• Verse Literature (25%) - You will read Sophocles’ Antigone. This play is a masterly depiction of a young girl’s doomedstruggle against the law, which has influenced other writers and artists ever since it was first performed in 441 BC. What Prior Knowledge Do I Need? Most candidates have studied Greek successfully at GCSE. However this is not absolutely necessary if you have studied Latin.

Views from the Sixth Form at QM“Greek forces you to look at the whole picture, it really trains your mind.”“The Greeks are just awesome.”

Additional InformationTeaching is shared by the different members of the Department. We aim to take students to at least one study day each year.

Syllabus OCR

This subject covers a wide range of interesting topics. As you study them you will acquire and develop the writing skills which you will find useful at university. You will also have the chance to express and explore your views in lively classroom debates.

Classical Greek is a fascinating subject in its own right. It is an interesting language to study and the literature of the ancient Greeks is among the finest in the world. Greek is highly respected by many universities; very few students have the chance to study this subject so it makes a very distinctive addition to a CV.


GEOGRAPHY

Course ContentYou will cover both human and physical topics and be examined with three final papers and an independent investigation. The topics include:• Tectonic Processes and Hazards• Coastal Landscapes and Change • Globalisation • Regenerating Places• Superpowers • Human Rights and Intervention • Water Insecurity and Energy Insecurity. These topics will be tested over two papers and then a separate paper will contain three synoptic themes and a resourcebooklet with information about the chosen geographical issue.

20% of the final qualification will be based on an independent investigation of 3000-4000 words from fieldwork undertaken as a group.

What Prior Knowledge Do I Need? You do not need a GCSE in Geography to study the subject at A Level. You must have an interest in the world around you and in current affairs. You must also be committed to putting in extra work to develop the skills necessary for success.

Views from the Sixth Form at QM“The fieldwork is great fun.”

Additional InformationIt is a requirement that at least four days of fieldwork be undertaken throughout the course, based in both rural and urban environments, which will include day trips and a residential. The cost of this fieldwork will be in the region of £120.

SyllabusEdexcel

A dynamic subject that straddles the Arts and Sciences. Geography allows candidates to gain an in-depth understanding of the many contemporary issues that face the world in which we live and equips students with a core set of transferable skills.

Politics equips you to understand the world in which we live,and allows you to hone your debating skills. It may lead you into studying Politics at university and it is useful for careersin journalism, law, business, and the civil service. The economist J K Galbraith observed that “Politics is the art of choosing between the disastrous and the unpalatable”!

GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS

Course ContentYou will develop a thorough understanding of the British constitution, including its origins and ongoing development in the digital age. You will also learn about the key political parties in the UK, and the ideologies with which they are associated. Finally, the course will include the US political system and completing comparative work on themes affecting politics on both sides of the Atlantic.

What Prior Knowledge Do I Need? It is not necessary to have prior knowledge of Politics before taking it up at A Level. However, you should enjoy debate and must have a genuine interest in current affairs and understanding how political systems operate in both Britain and the USA. You will be expected to follow current political stories on television, radio and online for the entirety of the course.

Views from the Sixth Form at QM“I now feel very confident debating and presenting my own ideas which will help me in my future life.”

Additional InformationStudents have a trip to London each year, either to attend a Sixth Form Politics Conference held at Westminster or to visit Parliament itself. Throughout the course students will be encouraged to purchase relevant publications to support their studies, such as magazines endorsed by Edexcel detailing recent political developments, to be able to apply them to the course.

SyllabusEdexcel

ENGLISH LANGUAGE

Course ContentThe A Level course consists of three modules. Language analysis underpins each component. The subject content includes how to analyse spoken and written texts, the study of the social andhistorical variables affecting language use, investigation into how children acquire language and writing for different audiences, genres and purposes.

The components of the course are as follows:• Textual Variations and Representations• Children’s Language Development• Language Diversity and Change• Language Discourses• Writing Skills• Language Investigation• Original Writing. What Prior Knowledge Do I Need? GCSE English Language at Grade 5 or above and an interest in how people use language to communicate in both speech and writing. Views from the Sixth Form at QM“English Language is a great subject. Learning how to analyse speech is a challenge, but really rewarding.”“I enjoyed the chance to write creatively again as I am interested in a career in journalism.”

Additional InformationStudents taking this subject will attend at least one external lecture during their course.

Syllabus AQA

ENGLISH LITERATURE

Course ContentYou will study a range of texts covering prose, poetry and drama, ranging from Chaucer to the present day.

There are three units:• Love Through the Ages• Texts in Shared Contexts (Modern Times: Literature from 1945 to the Present Day)• Independent Critical Study: Texts Across Time.

What Prior Knowledge Do I Need? GCSE passes at Grade 5 or above in English Language and English Literature are prerequisites. You have got to enjoy reading books, poems and plays and enjoy writing about them. Views from the Sixth Form at QM“Brilliant. I had no idea that you could learn so much by having so much fun.”“This course has changed my whole outlook. I now want to read English Literature at university.”

Additional InformationOrganised trips to theatres and cultural centres like Grasmere, London, Haworth and Stratford are regarded as part of the course.

Syllabus AQA Syllabus A

This course would particularly suit students considering careers in the media, law and advertising, or any career where strong communication skills are important. You will be well equipped to study English Language, Linguistics andthe Social Sciences at university.

Studying English Literature is excellent preparation fora range of careers due to its development of interpretativeand communication skills. It prepares students to pursuea wide range of Liberal Arts, Languages and Literature at university.


LATIN

Course ContentThe A Level includes four papers:• Unseen Translation (33%) - Students will continue to develop the language skills learned at GCSE and practise further translation from Latin into English• Prose Composition or Comprehension (17%) - Students will consolidate their knowledge of the Latin language and will have the choice of either answering comprehension questions on a passage of Latin or translating a short paragraph of Englishinto Latin • Prose Literature (25%) - Students will study a speech by Cicero, the greatest and most successful of Roman lawyers • Paper 4: Verse Literature (25%) - Students will read a selection of Roman love poems and compare the way in which three verydifferent poets – Ovid, Propertius and Tibullus – wrote about their feelings for the women they loved.

What Prior Knowledge Do I Need? You will need to have studied Latin at GCSE.

Views from the Sixth Form at QM“I enjoy the logic behind it.”“It is really interesting and helps you with other languages.”

Additional Information Teaching is shared by the different members of the Department. We aim to take students out to at least one study day each year.

Syllabus OCR

MANDARIN

Course ContentThe course consists of four papers:• Speaking• Listening, Reading, Translation• Writing and Usage• Chinese Culture Essay in English.

The main topics included in these papers are: Family, Young People, Education, the Media, Work and Leisure and Equality of Opportunity. Girls are required to research one topic related to the history, current affairs or culture (including art, cinema, literature and traditions) for Papers 1 and 4. A Chinese/English dictionary will be provided for Papers 2 and 3.

What Prior Knowledge Do I Need? The successful completion of the GCSE course in Mandarin is a prerequisite for continuing with the subject at A Level. An interest in communication and in learning about the culture of the countries where the language is spoken is essential.

Views from the Sixth Form at QM“Studying Mandarin at QM has been an extremely rewardingexperience. Throughout the course, I have not only improved mylevel of language, but also broadened my knowledge of the culture.”

SyllabusCambridge Pre-U

Latin enriches any combination of A Level subjects, and is respected by universities. You learn more about the magnificent literature of the Romans and about how languages really work. As you develop your translation skills, you will also improve your own powers of analysis and expression.

Mandarin is the most widely spoken language internationally and China currently has the second largest global economy so the ability to speak Mandarin will allow you to take advantage of opportunities presented by this huge economic shift. Also with thousands of years of history, Chinese culture is endlessly fascinating.

HISTORY

Course ContentThere are three key components:• A breadth study unit on the Tudors 1485-1603 - As well as essay skills, the unit assesses the candidate’s ability to both understand and discriminate between competing historical interpretations of the past• An in-depth study of Germany from the end of the First World War to the collapse of the Third Reich (1918-45) - Essay skills are tested again, as is the candidate’s ability to use challenging source material to make conclusions about the past • A coursework unit on Civil Rights of African-Americans in the USA, c1865-1968 - Using source material from the time as well as works of key historians, students will need to independently research a question of their choice and then write an essay of 3500 words with guidance from their teacher. What Prior Knowledge Do I Need? No specific content knowledge is required, but students who have not completed GCSE History will need to be committed to putting in extra work to develop the skills necessary for success in the subject. All students must enjoy reading, and whilst the Department employs a range of teaching strategies to deliver content in a stimulating way, assessment is exclusively through extended writing and challenging analysis of source material.

Views from the Sixth Form at QM“I have learnt some great research techniques and the ability to analyse and question, which will help me at university.”

Additional Information The Department offers a trip to Fountains Abbey where students work with National Trust educators to complete historical research on the Dissolution of the Monasteries, and international trips are also organised. SyllabusAQA

HISTORY OF ART

Course ContentThere are four modules:• Analytical Studies in Western and non-Western Art - This consists of the detailed formal and contextual study of 40 works of art; ten paintings, ten sculptures, ten buildings and ten examples of drawing, print, photography, collage and film• Historical Topics - You will study two key historical periods; Gothic Art and Architecture from c1140-1540 as well as the art produced in Europe between 1784 and 1900 • Thematic Topic “Art and architecture in the city” - You will study a case study of a specific European city, looking at the development of art and architecture in the urban context • Personal Investigation - This coursework module presents you with the opportunity to focus on a work, body of works, an artist or some other aspect of the subject which fascinates you. Assessment will include the project portfolio, and a presentation and interview administered by a visiting examiner.

What Prior Knowledge Do I Need? You do not need to have studied this subject before, but should certainly have a passion for the visual arts. Art History is a humanities subject and as such is most similar to English or History. The subject requires a significant amount of reading and teaches the skills of critical analysis and essay writing. Views from the Sixth Form at QM “I have a new appreciation of the influences on my own art.”“It’s really interesting to see why certain works have got in ‘the canon’ while others haven’t.” Additional Information The Department undertakes trips to the London galleries and international trips have included visits to Italy, Paris and Moscow.

SyllabusCambridge Pre-U

History will teach you about people and societies of the past, but just as importantly, it will equip you with the skills necessary for success in many Higher Education courses and in future careers. For example, it will help you to think critically and to argue and reason from evidence. Francis Bacon observed that “Histories make men wise”.

Art History teaches us to look in radically different ways at the material culture which surrounds us, from the fine arts through to expressions of popular culture. From this we can develop a vivid understanding of history. The subject provides skills which are valuable far beyond the classroom.


MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGES

Course ContentThese courses cover the following areas:• Social Issues and Trends• Political and Artistic Culture• A Literary Text and a Film• Individual Research Project• Grammar.

The examinations consists of the following components:Paper 1: Listening, Reading, WritingPaper 2: WritingPaper 3: Speaking

What Prior Knowledge Do I Need? The successful completion of the GCSE course in French, German or Spanish is a prerequisite for continuing with each of the subjects at A Level. An interest in communication and in learning about the culture of the countries where the languages are spoken is essential.

France is our closest continental neighbour and Europe’s most popular holiday destination. A knowledge of French is therefore useful both in the business and commercial world and practical when visiting France. Further study of the language will open the doors to an exciting cultural world of literature, cinema and art.

German is the most widely spoken language in Europe andknowledge of a foreign language not only broadens horizons but also helps to develop good communication skills and can enhance your future career development.

Spanish is the second most widely spoken language in the world and proficiency in a foreign language is highly valued by employers. Not only does it develop communication skills but it also heightens cultural awareness of the Spanish speaking world.

Views from the Sixth Form at QM“ Learning a language is broadening my cultural knowledge andexpanding my horizons.”“ Taking a language has given me the skills to communicatewith people from different nationalities and express my ideas.”“ As I mainly study sciences I wanted a different challenge.”

Additional Information Students studying Modern Foreign Languages at A Level will have weekly conversation classes. They will also attend Ciné Club to see some of the best foreign films and are encouraged to take part in a study visit to France, Spain or Germany. Students will attend language related lectures andevents. Costs for books and outings may amount to around £100.

SyllabusesAQA

MATHEMATICS

Course ContentThis course consists of three papers:• Pure Mathematics 1• Pure Mathematics 2• Statistics and Mechanics.

Pure Mathematics can be thought of as a mathematician’s toolbox - the techniques that are needed to go about solving real life problems. This will involve improving your algebra and trigonometry beyond all recognition, as well as introducing new and very important ideas such as logarithms and calculus. Mechanics is the study of forces and objects either in motion or in equilibrium, and is therefore of relevance to many practical situations. Statistics involves gathering, processing and interpreting data, and the study of probability theory.

What Prior Knowledge Do I Need? It is advisable to have at least a Grade 7 in GCSE Mathematics. You should enjoy the challenge of problem solving, and not worry about getting stuck from time to time. Resilience and perseverance are very useful qualities. Views from the Sixth Form at QM “Mathematics makes you think logically.”“Learning Mathematics makes your life easier.”

Additional InformationAll Sixth Form Mathematics students take part in the UKMT Senior Challenge and there is also the option to try out for the national team competition.

SyllabusEdexcel

FURTHER MATHEMATICS

Course ContentThis course consists of four papers:• Core Pure Mathematics 1• Core Pure Mathematics 2• Option 1• Option 2.

You must also be taking the Mathematics A Level in order totake the Further Mathematics A Level. Further PureMathematics explores wider themes within Pure Mathematicsas well as taking familiar concepts to a much deeper level.There are two optional papers. Early indications are that wewill study Decision Mathematics 1 as Option 1, and then allowa democratic process to determine what our Option 2 paperwill be from Further Statistics 1, Further Mechanics 1, DecisionMathematics 2 or Further Pure Mathematics 1. Decision Mathematics is the study of algorithms (the systematic use of mathematical processes) and their application to problem solving. It is a recently developed area of Mathematics, designed to solve modern world problems, such as finding the shortest route a snowplough can take to cover a road network or the most efficient way to organise complex tasks, such as cooking Christmas dinner.

What Prior Knowledge Do I Need? It is advisable to have at least a Grade 8 in GCSE Mathematics. You should be passionate about Mathematics, as you will be doing a great deal of it, and relish the challenge of problem solving.

Additional InformationIf option blocks permit, Further Mathematics students will complete the A Level Mathematics course in LVI, and then A Level Further Mathematics in UVI.

SyllabusEdexcel

Mathematics is a rich and fascinating subject in its own right. However, it also provides an important background to the study of many other subject areas. The study of Mathematics will help you explore and analyse a variety of problems, and use powerful techniques to solve them.

Further Mathematics is recommended for able mathematicians who enjoy their Mathematics and want to study each area in more detail. We also recommend thiscourse to girls who want to study Mathematics in some form in Higher Education and to those thinking of applying for Mathematics, Science or ICT-based courses at Oxbridge.


PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Course ContentStudying A Level Physical Education will enable students to become well rounded academic individuals in the world of PE, Sport and Sports Science. Students will investigate the reasons why some people outperform others both mentally and physically, the ethical considerations behind the use of drugs and also the influence that modern technology is having on physical activity and sport. There are three written examinations and a practical performance in one sport.

• Physiological Factors Affecting Performance (30%)• Psychological Factors Affecting Performance (20%)• Socio-cultural Issues in Physical Activity and Sport (20%)• Practical Performance in One Sport (30%).

What Prior Knowledge Do I Need? Candidates would normally be expected to have successfully completed a GCSE in Physical Education but this would not exclude candidates who had not done so. Views from the Sixth Form at QM“It has broadened my knowledge of sporting issues.”“Physical Education has given me an insight into Psychology.”

Additional InformationGirls do not have to be members of a School sports team in order to study A Level PE.

SyllabusOCR

PHYSICS

Course ContentA Level Modules• Development of Practical Skills• Fundamental Experimentation and Analytical Skills• Imaging, Signalling and Sensing• Mechanical Properties• Waves, Quantum Behaviour• Space, Time and Motion• Thermal Physics• Electromagnetism• Charge, Particles and Field Theory• Radioactivity.

What Prior Knowledge Do I Need? A good grade in GCSE Physics or in the Physics element of GCSE Combined Science. Experience has shown that studying Mathematics as well as Physics is beneficial, althoughnot essential. Aside from this, an enquiring mind, a thirst to find out how everything around us works and a willingness to make just that little bit of extra effort is all that is needed.

Views from the Sixth Form at QM “Physics is more ‘brain work’ than note-taking.”“It’s where we observe the truth and apply it in real life.”“As Physicists, we may never get to a perfectly accurate answer. We only create and test models. We are approaching the truth every time we refine our model.”

Additional Information The course uses practical work and multimedia simulation to describe and explain the sometimes abstract concepts involved. Students will also attend topical lectures and visit university Physics Departments. All students are strongly encouraged to read Physics Review regularly and all are expected to attend Science Society meetings.

SyllabusOCR Syllabus B (Advancing Physics)

This qualification addresses contemporary topics and increases your understanding of the factors that affect performance and participation in sport. It can also lead to a range of future degree courses from Sports Marketing to Psychology, and to careers as diverse as physiotherapy and events management.

Physics will open the door to a wide range of careers - from law to cosmology, from business to medicine. It can truly be the key to your future. The skills developed, coupled with the ability to draw logical conclusions, will give you a very powerful set of tools that can be developed and used for the rest of your life.

MUSIC

Course Content• Performing Option A (35%) - 10-12 minute performance with a minimum of three pieces including at least one solo• Performing Option B (25%) - 6-8 minute performance with a minimum of two pieces as a soloist or ensemble• Composing Option A (25%) - Two compositions, lasting 4-6 minutes, one to be in response to a brief set by the Board • Composing Option B (35%) - Three compositions, lasting 8 -10 minutes, one to be in response to a brief set by the Board. The second must reflect the musical characteristics of one different area of study. The third is a free composition• Appraising (40%) - Written and listening examination testing aural analysis, historical and contextual understanding and detailed knowledge of three set works by Haydn, Debussy and Poulenc. The Western Classical Tradition is studied via the development of the Symphony and a range of 20th century genres are also studied. An elective area of study is also chosen from Rock and Pop, Musical Theatre or Jazz.

What Prior Knowledge Do I Need? A good grade in GCSE Music and/or ABRSM Grade 5 Theory and the ability to perform on at least one instrument to ABRSM Grade 5/6 level.

Views from the Sixth Form at QM “Music combines serious academic study with something I am passionate about - it’s a perfect combination.”

Additional Information Queen Margaret’s has a vibrant Music community and as A Level Musicians, you will have the opportunity to attend external professional performances, take part in masterclasses, concerts, productions, recordings and an international music tour.

SyllabusWJEC – Eduqas

Not only will all areas of your musical abilities be enhanced but skills including research, written and visual communication, analytical essay writing, performance and creativity, historical insight, IT and problem solving skills will also be developed.

The chance to think about some of the biggest questions of existence, and to investigate today’s most crucial moral, philosophical and religious ideas. The course has a bearing on other subjects including History and Art and will stand you in good stead for a variety of careers, including law, healthcare, social work, PR, and employment involving human relations.


PHILOSOPHY AND ETHICS

Course ContentPhilosophy of Religion and Ethics• Section A: Philosophy of Religion - Arguments for the existence of God, evil and suffering, religious experience, religious language, miracles, self and life after death• Section B: Ethics and Religion - Ethical theories, issues of human life and death, issues of animal life and death, introduction to meta ethics, free will and moral responsibility, conscience, Bentham and Kant.

Study of Religion and Dialogues• Section A: Study of Religion (Christianity) - Sources of wisdom and authority, religion, gender and sexuality, God/gods/ultimate reality, religion and science, self, death and the afterlife, religion and secularisation, good conduct and key moral principles, religion and religious pluralism, expression of religious identity• Section B: The dialogue between philosophy of religion and religion• Section C: The dialogue between ethical studies and religion.

Since the publication of Richard Dawkin’s book, ‘The God Delusion’ the ancient arguments concerning the existence of God have rarely been so keenly debated. This course allows you the opportunity to explore the issues in depth and draw your own conclusions. You will also consider the writings of some of the greatest figures in intellectual history: Plato, Aristotle Boethius, Darwin, Hume, Russell, Mill, Kant and Aquinas. Assessment is through written examinations.

What Prior Knowledge Do I Need? GCSE in Religious Studies would be useful but by no means essential. However, you should not be daunted by essay writing and be willing to do background reading and research. You mustcome to class with a readiness to participate in discussion. This course is open to students of any or no religious persuasion.

SyllabusAQA

QM DIPLOMA

For many girls, much of the content of the QM Diploma is already something they do and this award simply formally acknowledges this.

Students are challenged to achieve at least one element from each of the five sections of the Diploma during the two year time frame. The five sections of the Diploma are integrally linked with the School aims. These are that each and every girl at Queen Margaret’s will:

• Achieve excellence inside and outside the classroom• Develop an enthusiasm for independent thought, learning and research• Grow with emotional maturity, social awareness and respect for individuality and difference• Forge special friendships that will stay with them for the rest of their lives• Be interesting, well-informed, happy and confident members of the community.

The QM Diploma is open to all Sixth Form students. Girls will digitally record the activities they complete towards each section of the Diploma and this will be verified by a teacher. Girls will have to achieve 100% in each section to complete the QM Diploma. Please refer to the QM Diploma Handbook for further information.

The QM Diploma has been designed to complement a girl’s academic curriculum by providing opportunities to challenge, inspire and assist her to fulfil her ambitions and achieve her potential during her time in the Sixth Form.

SyllabusAQA

Course ContentThrough taking responsibility for the choice and design of an individual project, or an individual role in a group project, students will:

• Become more critical, reflective and independent learners• Develop and apply decision making and problem solving skills• Increase their planning, research, analysis, synthesis, evaluation and presentation skills• Learn to apply new technologies confidently• Demonstrate creativity, initiative and enterprise. The qualification can develop and extend from an area of study and/or from an area of personal interest and includes a taught element of two timetabled hours per week. It will involve extended autonomous work by you and requires a total of 120 guided learning hours over a 12 month period.

Students are required, with appropriate supervision, to:• Choose an area of interest• Draft a title and aims for formal approval by the Coordinator• Plan, research and carry out the project• Deliver a presentation to a specified audience• Provide evidence of all stages of project development and production for assessment in the form of a Production Log, Assessment Record and Candidate Record Form• The project product will include a written report and any other evidence, as appropriate, depending on the topic or subject area chosen.

What Prior Knowledge Do I Need? A self disciplined and independent approach to learning.

Additional InformationThis qualification will enable the learning and transfer of a number of important skills that are valued by Higher Education institutes.

PSYCHOLOGY

Course ContentThe A Level includes three written examinations:• Introductory Topics in Psychology - Social influence, attachment, memory, psychopathology.• Psychology in Context - Approaches in Psychology, research methods, biopsychology.• Issues and Options in Psychology - Issues and debates in Psychology, stress, relationships, aggression.

You will be studying human behaviour as well as developing your analytical skills. You will have the opportunity to take part in debates, analyse behaviour and understand the way the brain works as well as finding an explanation for why we behave in a certain way. Have you ever wondered why people act as they do?

A feature of the Psychology A Level course is that candidates must be able to demonstrate their knowledge of psychological principles, terminology, concepts, empirical research and psychological methods in relation to the main topic areas. In addition, candidates must develop an ability to question the theoretical and methodological approaches upon which they are based.

What Prior Knowledge Do I Need? Psychology is a diverse subject that can be thought of as the scientific study of animal (human and non-human) behaviour and cognitions (information processing). No specific content knowledge is required but you need to be committed to putting in extra work to develop the necessary skills for success inPsychology. A basic understanding of Mathematics would be an advantage.

Additional InformationYou will attend a Psychology conference in London to further develop your knowledge and understanding.

Have you ever wondered if the experiences you had before the age of five really do shape the person you are today? Psychology will give you an understanding of the way people think and why people behave in certain ways. You will learn a variety of skills including analytical thinking, improved communication, problem solving and many more.

SyllabusAQA


EXTENDED PROJECT QUALIFICATION

An opportunity for students to extend their abilities beyond the A Level syllabus, stand out and prepare for university. This is a stand-alone qualification which allows students to embark on largely self directed projects. This course carries UCAS points.

LEVEL 3 HIGHER SPORTS LEADERS

NATIONAL POOL LIFEGUARD QUALIFICATIONThe Level 3 Certificate in Higher Sports Leadership is a

nationally recognised qualification that enables successful learners to lead unsupervised groups of people in sport and recreational activities. This course carries UCAS points.

The course is made up of four compulsory units and two optional units:

Compulsory Units• Developing leadership skills• Plan, lead and evaluate a sport/physical activity or event (practical observation)• Lead safe sport/physical activity sessions• Plan, lead and evaluate sport/physical activity sessions for children (practical observation).

Optional Units (Choose two)• Plan, lead and evaluate sport/physical activity sessions in the community• Plan, lead and evaluate sport/physical activity sessions for disabled people• Plan, lead and evaluate sport/physical activity sessions for older people.

You will be assessed through written and verbal tasks and should keep an organised folder of evidence throughout the duration of the course. Some of the evidence will be gathered through video evidence during practical demonstration. You will have a learner evidence booklet to complete as well as leadership hours to log.

From line throws to CPR you’ll learn skills during the NPLQ course that you can use throughout your life.

This course gives the opportunity to progress to a career within the leisure industry, indeed most Leisure Managers start off as Pool Lifeguards.

It gives you the opportunity to work as part of a team and, as The NPLQ is recognised around the world, there is potential to work and travel. Finally, the NPLQ course will provide essential life skills, including First Aid. The course must run for a minimumof 38.5 hours.

This qualification is regulated by Ofqual.

DIPLOMA IN DANCE INSTRUCTION

LEITHS

With training in understanding recipes, time management, menu planning, food presentation, food safety and hygiene, you will gain a solid practical foundation as well as an impressive repertoire that will enable you to cook confidently, either independently or in a group. Leiths promotes a positive attitude towards food and students will be trained in healthy eating andadapting recipes for a balanced lifestyle. They will learn how to buy and store food sensibly, be taught store cupboard recipes and creative uses for leftovers, and be given an introduction to wine. As well as learning an essential toolbox of cooking skills, you will learn to cook a range of delicious recipes from around the world including goujons of plaice with tartare sauce, duck breasts with ginger, chilli and lime, English roast chicken with all the trimmings, rack of lamb with mustard crust, Za’atar crusted prawns with a bulgur wheat and herb salad, summer berry Pavlova and homemade ice creams. By the end of the course, whether going on to fend for yourself at university, cook for friends and family or cook professionally, you will have developed the skills, knowledge, confidence and enthusiasm to enjoy a lifelong love of food and cooking.

This course fulfils the requirements for the ‘New Skill’ section of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award and is an ideal additional skill for the UCAS Personal Statement. Assessment includes:

• Continuous classroom assessment• Coursework focusing on menu planning, writing time plans and informal tests• Two and a half hour practical examination• Theory examination on skills learnt and developed

Pupils completing this course often find employment in the food industry during their gap year and beyond, including catering for private clients or in a variety of seasonal jobs in the UK and abroad. For students with professional ambitions, the successful completion of the Introductory Certificate is a fast track to the Leiths Two Term Diploma, a culinary alternative to university.

The Diploma in Dance Instruction (from the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dance) is aimed at anyone 17 years or older who wishes to begin training as a Dance teacher.

The Diploma is broken down into four units. Two units are generic and cover teaching skills with a focus on teaching observation and safe Dance practice. The other two units are Dance genre specific and focus on technical, performance based and musical knowledge required at this level both throughpersonal performance and that of pupils of various levels.

The qualification is divided into four units, as shown below.• Observation and Understanding of Teaching and Learning Techniques• Promotion of Health and Safety in Dance• Vocational Graded Examination in Dance: Intermediate• Dance Practice and the Relationship between Music and Dance in a Chosen Dance Genre

The first two units are common to all Dance genres and once attained do not have to be retaken when qualifying in another genre. The third and fourth unit are specific to each Dance genre and the learner may choose to take these units more than once to pursue the study of different Dance genres. The third unit must always be achieved before the learner may be examined for the fourth unit.

Leiths Basic Certificate Course in Food and Wine forms a comprehensive and exciting introduction to cooking giving you a thorough understanding of culinary techniques, and the chance to explore the science behind them.


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