What is the message? (and do you agree?) What is the message? (And do you agree?) Source: //.
To your specialist Sixth Form ProviderWelcome...you will agree with our students and parents that...
Transcript of To your specialist Sixth Form ProviderWelcome...you will agree with our students and parents that...
Welcom
eTo your specialist Sixth Form
Provider
1www.cirencester.ac.uk
“At Cirencester College you will find the freedom and encouragement for you to develop both academically and as an individual. We pride ourselves on providing THE stepping stone from school to university, apprenticeships and employment. We hope that you will agree with our students and parents that our ‘grown up atmosphere’ and ‘independence-with-a-safety-net’ enables you to develop the skills and confidence to succeed whatever your chosen path. You will certainly be spoilt for choice. We offer the widest range of combinations of A-levels and Vocational courses in the region and we were the only school or college launching the new T-levels in 2020 within 60 miles. We are ambitious for all our students. Whichever courses you choose, our lecturers will challenge you to achieve high standards in all you do. They are all 16-19 specialists and we hope you will find them both inspiring and approachable. Our pastoral care team will provide guidance and help you cope with any issues during your time here. Key to this will be your personal tutor who will mentor you and encourage you to get the most out of the huge range of opportunities on offer. This includes our extensive recreational and academic enrichment programme. I am immensely proud of our College, our staff and most of all, our students. Every year hundreds of students leave with excellent results, having made new friends and having had some amazing experiences. I feel particularly fortunate that my own children also had these crucial two years at Cirencester. I hope that having read this prospectus you will come and visit us, get a ‘feel’ for the College and understand why so many students from across the region take advantage of our excellent transport system to join us. I hope you will see that Cirencester is the place which will help you achieve your potential!“
Best wishesJim GrantPRINCIPAL
2 www.cirencester.ac.uk
HELLOBONJOURGUTEN TAGHOLACIAOOLÁGODDAGCZEŚĆKONNICHIWAGODDAGAHLANMERHABA
Contents
04 - 1112 - 13
14 - 1920 - 23
24 - 9293
94 - 9598 - 115
96 - 97116 - 121
122 -131132-133
How much of an impact do we make?(Why Cirencester Sixth Form College? Why and what the students say, Support)
Facilities
Apprenticeships
What our Parents say...
Choosing your courses(Which courses are right for me? Applying to College, T-levels)
Our Courses(Entry Requirements, Course Guide for A-levels, Vocational and T-levels, University level courses, Results)
University guidance(UCAS, Access to career matching tools)
Enrichment(High Achievers, STEM, Enrichment, Sports and Societies, Health and Wellbeing, Postcards)
Careers(Career Help, Employability and Work Experience, Career Ready)
Additional information(How to get to us, Parent Zone, Art Show, Key Dates)
Course index
Progression(Student Progress at University, Which Universities do our students progress to)
3www.cirencester.ac.uk
STUDENT APPROACH TO LEARNINGWe strongly believe that students need the right approach and mindset if they are going to aim high and really push their aspirations and achievement. As a College, we use the VESPA system. This is a clever combination of tasks, activities and plans spread throughout the academic year that help students hone and understand their Vision, Effort, Systems, Practice and Attitude.
DEVELOPING OUR STAFFNot only do we have highly qualified specialist subject teachers, but we invest in continually training and developing them too. We also have a culture of sharing best practice and teachers helping each other so they can be the best they can be.
HOW DO WE MEASURE THIS?There are several ways of measuring the impact of a Sixth Form, but essentially they all compare the GCSE score a student achieved at 16 with the A-level or Vocational score they leave with at 18. We use a system called ALPS which is used by top performing schools and colleges across the country, to measure the value we add to each learner.
Amongst all types of 16-19 schools and colleges in England, Sixth Form Colleges have the best value added and make the most difference for students.Our Guidance programme for future careers and our highly developed University Application process ensure that student choices are well informed.
According to the Higher Education Statistics Agency our students consistently perform better at University than state schools and the Sixth Form sector (see page 96).
Cirencester Sixth Form College is a specialist Sixth Form College, this is at the core of our staff expertise and what they concentrate upon. We provide tremendous subject choice, a supportive and ambitious pastoral system and great teaching.
4 www.cirencester.ac.uk
LIBBY
LIBERTY BESWICK(Wycombe Abbey)A-levels English Literature, Geography, Psychology and History
A*A*A*A*
NEXT: Human, Social and Political Sciences at the University of Cambridge
My time at Cirencester College has been my best educational experience so far, with inspiring teachers, amazing friends and a wonderful College atmosphere.
5www.cirencester.ac.uk
I would like to
MEET new people
In two years I want to be an
APPRENTICEor in EMPLOYMENT
I want to study
VOCATIONAL
I am
AMBITIOUS
I want to be known for
WHO I AM NOW
I want to be a
HIGH ACHIEVER
WHYCirencester Sixth Form College?
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I want
MORE CHOICE about what
I study
I would like to join some exciting new
CLUBS &SOCIETIES
I want to be taught by
SPECIALISTTEACHERS
I’m ready for moreRESPONSIBILITY
but I still need
SUPPORT
I want to be treated like
AN ADULT
I’m ready for a
FRESHSTART
7www.cirencester.ac.uk
Here at Cirencester College, we know how important it is for our students and staff to feel connected. Our website (cirencester.ac.uk) has a great News Feed to keep readers up-to-date with what’s going on in the College, but we also love to connect with people via our social media channels. In an increasingly digital world, social media is an important tool we can use to collaborate, network, share and generate content, with the overall aim of raising people’s awareness of Cirencester College and all we get up to here.
Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube are all platforms we use regularly to keep our followers up to date with what’s going on at College. For people in the local community, it’s great for them to see all the fantastic things we get up to here – you could even say we like to show off about how brilliant our students are! For current students, it’s a great way to keep up-to-date with upcoming events in College and also celebrate fellow students’ successes.
But we don’t pretend to know all about social media and its ever-changing trends, which is why we encourage our students to get involved. Our Student Ambassadors give us regular feedback on how our social media affects them and what they would like to see from it, which is really useful to us. As well as this, students are encouraged to take part in our campaigns as much as possible, whether this be via videos or photos, Instagram Stories or Boomerangs, hashtags or retweets.
If you’re considering coming to Cirencester College, we encourage you to take a look at our social media platforms: Hopefully they give you a taste of what life at Cirencester
College is like for students!
WHY & WHATThe Students Say
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Facebook/cirencester college
LinkedInCirencester College
Instagram@cirencoll
Twitter @cirencoll
YouTube/cirencestercollege
Such a good College. Great lecturers and a huge variety of courses to choose from!
The art department was absolutely exceptional. Definitely recommend!
The best place to study A-levels
The best decision I could have made. Supportive, friendly and a extremely encouraging College.
I attended here from 2013-2017 and I absolutely loved it. I had to work my way from Level 1, Level 2 and finally Level 3. I achieved a “Distinction, Merit” grade on Level 3 IT, which got me into University! I can’t recommend Cirencester College enough, for everything that they did for me!
FOLLOW US ON:
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Students and their achievement, support and enjoyment are at the centre of all we do at Cirencester College. We know that moving from a school to a Sixth Form College is an exciting time. Sometimes this will feel challenging, but we have the expertise to provide outstanding and age appropriate support. While recognizing the need to treat students with respect and help to develop independent learning skills, we are still keen to ensure that students have the pastoral support and guidance to help them develop and achieve their academic and personal goals.
STUDENT WELLBEINGThe health and wellbeing of our students is paramount here at Cirencester College. Our Pastoral Team are on hand every day to support our students and help them overcome any barriers they may be facing. Throughout the academic year, we invite external agencies in to deliver talks on essential topics which will benefit every student, ensuring they are able to reach their full potential.
STUDENT PROGRESSIONWe are committed to improving the life chances of all of our learners by providing support, guidance and inspiration at every step of the way. Through a wide range of events and activities, including our impressive annual Employer and Higher Education Convention, students are supported to consider their career plans. With expert Careers Guidance Professionals and Tutors based in our centrally located Progression Hub, there is always help and advice available for university, apprenticeship and job applications as well as a ‘job shop’ for work experience opportunities.
ACADEMIC AND LEARNING SUPPORTWe actively welcome students with a wide range of abilities, specific learning difficulties and disabilities. Wherever possible we adjust to and cater for your needs. We promote equality of opportunity across all sectors of the College. All students are screened to assess their individual learning needs. Where Academic Support tutors identify students who would benefit from specialist support, they will invite these students for further assessment, draw up an individually tailored programme of support and liaise with subject teachers, tutors and parents to ensure that this planned support is delivered effectively. This can include 1 to 1 private tuition or in class support.
Support
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A series of programmes, workshops, lectures and
mentoring that focus on raising aspirations, developing career
awareness and enabling students to reach their full
potential. We excel at providing opportunities for students with aspirations of entrepreneurship
through Young Enterprise.(See page 119.)
Investment in training and development of
our specialist teachers. Passionate experts in their chosen subjects.
Specifically qualified to teach the 16-18 year
groups.
• Tutor Groups • Personal/One-to-One
guidance • Target Setting and Academic
Monitoring • Careers Guidance
• Pastoral Manager and Progression Tutors
• Bursaries • Student Journey Team
• Academic Support
• Impress universities in your personal statement
• Stand out from the rest in job applications
• Gain work experience• Build confidence
• Continue a sport or hobby or try something completely different
• Study Skills • STEM
• High Achievers Academy• Gifted & Talented• Supervised study
Thanks to a Sport England initiative, Cirencester Sixth Form College employs a
Health & Fitness Development Officer who has been working with the College to encourage more students in the College
community to get active.(See page 108.)
Developing student approaches to learning.
(See page 4.)
EMPLOYABILITY & ENTERPRISE
SPECIALIST TEACHING PASTORAL
ENRICHMENT PHYSICAL & MENTAL HEALTH VESPA
11www.cirencester.ac.uk
FacilitiesThe College is renowned for its rural setting and green fields, which is where you will find our students on a sunny day. There are plenty of social and study areas around the campus where students have the opportunity to relax or work. Students can access free Wi-Fi from their own devices anywhere on site. Visit one of our Open Events and explore for yourselves!
REFECTORYOur Refectory provides a rotating 3 weekly menu of delicious homemade food including vegetarian, vegan and healthy options. Our chef is always open to new ideas and encourages students to put forward their views on menu choices.
THE SPOTLIGHTThe Spotlight Cafe is very popular with students for having freshly roasted coffee, fruit smoothies and freshly made sandwiches, paninis, cakes and a constantly changing grab and go menu. The Spotlight has been extended and is a popular place where students can plug in their own laptops and tablets and access their work.
COLLEGE SHOPSReprographics, in the Hub is well stocked with stationery, art, textiles and craft products and Caddy’s Candy Shop is full of your favourite sweets and gift ideas.
INDEPENDENT STUDY SPACES
We have increased our study spaces throughout College, including our newly refurbished Library,
Study Centre and Study Hub. Each building has its own break out study
areas.
STUDY HUB & LIBRARYThe Study Hub and Library
support student learning by providing a staffed and supervised
independent learning environment. Information and Digital Literacy
Skills are delivered via Moodle courses to enhance study skills and expert staff are on hand to advise you on how to get the most out of the resources which include
books, DVDs, journals and electronic materials.
SUPERVISED STUDY AREAS
As part of a student’s study programme, students will have a
timetabled lesson each week where they will work in the Supervised Study Area. This is a quiet area
where students can get on with their coursework or revision and be able to access a computer station
if needed. This is also another independent study area which
students can access at any time.
Don’t bother bringing in food – The Refectory food is very good!
JAMES MILLER(Cirencester Deer Park)
12 www.cirencester.ac.uk
• The Sundial Theatre is a fully functional professional theatre. It is also used by our Drama and Performing Arts students.
• The STEM Building, has state-of-the-art labs, IT suites and classrooms.
• Our Sports Hall with 1 basketball, 2 netball and 4 badminton courts. Also cricket nets and indoor football.
• The Fitness Suite with spin bikes, treadmills, cross trainers, exercise bikes, weights equipment and rowing machines.
• The Animal Science Centre with over 70 different species including a range of small mammals, amphibians, reptiles, birds and fish.
• The Music Studio kitted out with full drum kit, bass amp, guitar amps, keyboard, and vocal mics, PA and control room with mixing desk with Mac PRO and PRO Tools HD.
• Our Music Technology Suite contains 17 Mac Minis running Logic PRO X and PRO Tools.
OTHER FACILITIES
13www.cirencester.ac.uk
Which courses are right for me?A-LEVEL PROGRAMME
VOCATIONAL PROGRAMME
MIXED PROGRAMME
T-LEVELS
LEVEL 2 PROGRAMME
LEVEL 1 PROGRAMME
• I prefer courses which are mainly exam based
• I will achieve mainly grades 4-9 in my GCSEs
• I want to study 3 or 4 subjects in-depth• I want to keep my options open for
employment, university or higher level apprenticeships
• I want to study topics that will directly relate to a specific career I have in mind
• I will achieve mainly grades 4-9 in my GCSEs
• I want to keep the option of going to University
• I want the opportunity of work experience that will help to start my career
• I want to study a combination of A-levels and a vocational course.
• I will achieve mainly grades 4-9 in my GCSEs.
• I want to keep my options open after College
• I want to study a Level 2 vocational programme.
• I will achieve mainly grades 3s in my GCSEs.
• I want to progress to a Level 3 Vocational Programme, employment, training or an apprenticeship.
• I will achieve mainly grades 1 to 2s in my GCSEs. • I want to progress to a Level 2 vocational programme, employment, training or an
apprenticeship.
• I would like to incorporate an industry placement in my study programme
• I want to keep my options open for employment, University or higher level apprenticeships
• I want to study topics that will directly relate to a specific career I have in mind
• I will achieve grades 4-9 in my GCSEs• I prefer courses with strong industry links.
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A-LEVEL PROGRAM
VOCATIONAL PROGRAMME
MIXED PROGRAMME
T-LEVELS
LEVEL 2 PROGRAMME
LEVEL 1 PROGRAMME
1 x A-LEVEL
1 x A-LEVEL
1 x A-LEV-EL
1 x A-LEV-EL
1 x A-LEVEL 1 x A-LEVEL
1 x A-LEVEL 1 x A-LEVEL
1 x A-LEVEL
1 x A-LEV-EL
1 x A-LEV-EL
1 x A-LEVEL 1 x A-LEVEL
T-LEVEL
1 x A-LEVEL 1 x A-LEVEL
ENRICHMENT ACTIVITYTUTORIAL
STUDY PERIOD/WORKSHOPS
ENRICHMENT ACTIVITY
TUTORIALSTUDY PERIOD/WORKSHOPS
WORS4ME PROGRAMMESUPPORTED INTERN-SHIP PROGRAMME
EXTENDED DIPLOMA (EQUIVALENT TO 3 A-LEVELS)
+
+
+
+ +
+
SUB DIPLOMA /EXTENDED
CERTIFICATE(EQUIVALENT TO 1
A-LEVEL)
A-LEVEL PROGRAMME
VOCATIONAL PROGRAMME
MIXED PROGRAMME
T-LEVELS
LEVEL 2 PROGRAMME
LEVEL 1 PROGRAMME
1 A-LEVEL
1 A-LEVEL 1 A-LEVEL
1 A-LEVEL 1 A-LEVEL
1 A-LEVEL
1 A-LEVEL
GCSE ENGLISH
GCSE MATHS
1 A-LEVELOR
VOCATIONAL STUDY
VOCATIONALSTUDY
1 A-LEVEL 1 A-LEVEL
LEVEL 2 DIPLOMACERTIFICATE/ YET-T
EPQ (Extended Project Qualification)
Enrichment ActivityTutorial
Study Period/workshops
Enrichment ActivityTutorial
Study Period/workshops
UPGRADE PROGRAMMESUPPORTED INTERNSHIP PROGRAMME
EXTENDED DIPLOMA (EQUIVALENT TO 3 A-LEVELS)
T-LEVEL(EQUIVALENT TO 3 A-LEVELS)
+
+
+
+
+HPQ (Higher Project Qualification)
Enrichment ActivityTutorial
Study Period/workshops
BUILDING your Study Programme
(a small number of High Achieving students choose to do 4 A-levels.)
15www.cirencester.ac.uk
RESEARCHFind out as much information as you can about our courses. This prospectus gives you a taste of the range and choice but for more comprehensive course details you will need to visit our website: www.cirencester.ac.uk.
You will see on the website that each course information page provides you with labour market intelligence. Use this to find out what career prospects are available in your chosen subject, the kind of salary you can expect to earn and interviews with people in those professions.
12
3
4
5
APPLYINGto Collegeto College
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*If you do not get the grades you expected we would still encourage you to attend your appointment, as this is an opportunity to review your programme of study with a member of the Admissions Team.
COME & VISITOur Open Events are an ideal opportunity for you to meet our specialist staff, speak to our students, build up detailed knowledge about the courses you are interested in and find out about the wealth of enrichment activities we have at Cirencester College.See back page for dates.
CHOICES DAYSChoices Days give you a real feel for what a day at Cirencester College would be like. Students select 5 subjects of their choice to get more of an in-depth insight into the subjects that they may choose. Some schools may organise this for you, or register as an individual through our website.
SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATIONOnce you are happy with what you see the next step is to apply online at www.cirencester.ac.uk, this is an easy and secure process and should only take about 15 minutes.
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?You will be invited to an Advice and Guidance interview which may be on a group Admissions Day or a one-to-one interview. Here we will make sure you that your course choices match your aspirations for the future and we will discuss any support needs you may have.
KEEP IN TOUCH, RESULTS & ENROLMENTWe will be keeping in touch with you throughout the year through our Applicant Portal and with updates via our ‘Countdown to College’ newsletters. You will also have Pre course assignments to do in the summer called ‘Flying Start.’
You will be given the opportunity to book yourself in for an Enrolment Appointment over the summer holidays. Meetings will take place after you receive your GCSE results so that we can confirm your programme of study and you can pick up all the information you will need to start in September 2021.
START OF COLLEGETo help you settle in quickly, all our new First Years are invited to Induction Day at the beginning of term. Here you will meet one of your teachers, make new friends and you will learn more about the College.
17www.cirencester.ac.uk
T-Levels are the latest ground breaking qualifications. T-levels are 2 year technical study programmes designed in cooperation with business & employers to provide young people with a mixture of technical knowledge and skills specific to their chosen industry and occupation. T-Levels ensure students have the knowledge and skills needed to progress into skilled employment or higher education.
They combine cutting edge content delivered via the classroom, hands-on learning together with an extended 45-day industry placement to prepare the students for work or higher education. Take it to the Next Level!
COURSES AVAILABLE
WELCOME TO THE NEXT LEVEL
Childcare & Education
Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction
Digital: Production, Design and Development
Digital: Business Services - New
Digital: Support and Service - New
Health and Science: Health - New
Health and Science: Healthcare Science - New
Health and Science: Science - New
Coming in 2022Legal, Finance and Accounting: Legal T-level
Legal, Finance and Accounting: Finance T-level
Legal, Finance and Accounting: Accounting T-level
Business and Administration: Management and Administration
Business and Administration: Human Resources
Engineering and Manufacturing: Design and Development
18 www.cirencester.ac.uk
NEW DEVELOPMENTSFOR 2021
Cirencester College will be opening their brand-new, state-of-the-art ‘Digital Skills Centre’ in 2021/22. This £4.48m building has been funded by GFirst, Gloucestershire’s Local Enterprise Partnership and will be known as ‘The Gloucestershire Applied Digital Skills Centre.’ The cyber and digital skills areas are two of the fastest growing skill sectors in the UK. This exciting new project at Cirencester College will be meeting those future needs by equipping students with the most up-to-date resources, equipment and skills needed to enter careers in both of those sectors. This building will be a fantastic addition for our new Digital T-levels.
WHAT ARE THEY LIKE?T-levels are built around a core set of underpinning knowledge, concepts and skills, tailored for each chosen industry and occupation. There’s also specialist content covering occupational or industry specific skills, and then an industry placement with an employer which will last for a minimum of 45 working days. This gives you quality theory and valuable experience, all wrapped up in a new gold standard of education.
Digital Skills Centre
Digital Skills Centre
19www.cirencester.ac.uk
Apprenticeships are a full-time job with training which provide a fantastic opportunity for you to start your career. Every apprentice follows a specific nationally approved programme of study that is relevant to their job role, their employer and their chosen industry. This means that by the end of your apprenticeship you will have the knowledge, skills and behaviours which match exactly what your employer wants. Because you will have gained valuable work experience and additional qualifications, an apprenticeship also makes you far more employable when you want or need to move on.
Apprenticeships
It is important that you consider what type of apprenticeship you want to do and when it is the right time for you to make the move from full-time education to full-time work. Our Apprenticeship team will work with you to help find the right apprenticeship for you; researching employers, considering your career goals and looking at apprenticeship vacancies.
“As a company we have benefitted from
having our apprentices, and we would look to employ more apprentices.”
-Lumley Insurance
(Cirencester)
“It’s very rewarding to help our apprentices
develop and see them grow.”-
Archant(Cheltenham)
20 www.cirencester.ac.uk
“We have had an extremely good experience and would recommend
employing an apprentice to develop skills within an organisation to provide a better
service.”-
Cadman Wealth Planning(Thornbury)
“Being at The Number Crunchers has helped me to improve the accountancy
skills I already had, whilst making me into a better well-rounded employee at the
same time.”-
Jack Wilson(Accountancy Apprentice)
“An apprenticeship allows me to study and gain experience at the same time. It’s amazing to get an insight into running a business and the work that goes into it.”
-Evie Hockey
(Business & Administration Apprentice)
Anna-Sian Higgs, Grace Mansell and Amy Kent
“By employing an apprentice it gave me the flexibility to gain new business while
developing their skills.”-
Lounge Design(Cirencester)
21www.cirencester.ac.uk
For those new into a sector or where it is your first job. Focussing on the development of core workplace skills and knowledge along with sector and company specific learning, the apprentice works towards a Level 2
apprenticeship.
For those job roles with some degree of responsibility and with greater levels of complexity, autonomy and problem solving. An advanced
apprenticeship focusses on more detailed technical knowledge and the development of advanced workplace skills. There may be responsibility for staff and/or processes, projects and activities. Advanced apprentices
are expected to use their own initiative and be able to make relevant judgements and possibly make first line operational decisions. Advanced
apprentices work towards a Level 3 apprenticeship.
Higher apprenticeships include strategic and management responsibilities or very complex and technical expertise and responsibility. In most cases, the apprentice will have completed an advanced apprenticeship and will
have been working in the sector previously and is now moving to a higher level job role, or will have completed technical qualifications relevant to the sector. Many higher apprenticeships include a foundation degree or HNC/HND as part of the knowledge-based qualifications. The apprentice
will be working towards Level 4 or above qualifications (HE Level).
Apprenticeships are delivered at different levels reflecting the scope and responsibility of the job role and not the academic ability of the apprentice. The skills and competencies expected in the workplace become increasingly more complex through the levels. There is the chance to progress to higher levels where the job responsibilities allow.
Intermediate Apprenticeship
Advanced Apprenticeship
Higher Apprenticeship
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Sector Area Intermediate Advanced HigherAccounting • • •
Digital Media & Design • •
Business & Administration & Estate Agency • • •
Customer Service • •
IT & Computing • •
Supervisory & Management • •
Marketing & Social Media • • •
Financial & Insurance • • •
Full details of apprenticeship pathways and qualifications for each sector, and information on any new programmes can be found at www.cirencester.ac.uk/apprenticeships.
Contact the Apprenticeship Team on 01285 626259 or Email: [email protected]
Mollie, Jack and Ryan all did an apprenticeship with The Numbercrunchers, an accountancy firm based in Cirencester, and have picked up the skills and knowledge that are essential for a career in accounting. Business Development Lead, Gaynor Hutton, said:
“What I would hope the students take away from their time with us is a good work-ethic, a good attention to detail and the ability to see things from a client’s point of view.”
Please note, there are a number of different apprenticeship routes available within each sector area.
23www.cirencester.ac.uk
OurCourses
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*Each course shows the known student progression into further or Higher Education/Employment and Apprenticeships, from that individual course.
AccountingAncient HistoryBiologyBusiness StudiesChemistryClassical CivilisationComputer ScienceDesign - 3D DesignDrama & Theatre StudiesEconomicsElectronicsEnglish LanguageEnglish Language & LiteratureEnglish LiteratureEnvironmental ScienceFilm StudiesFine ArtFrenchGeographyGeologyGermanGraphic CommunicationHistoryLawMathematicsMaths (Core)Mathematics & Further MathematicsMedia StudiesPhilosophy, Ethics & ReligionPhotographyPhysicsPoliticsPsychologySociologySpanishTextiles
282832353537383942444446
4747485152525555565659626363
65677172727475787882
LEVEL 3 VOCATIONAL
Animal ManagementArt and DesignBiology (Applied Human Biology)BusinessCriminologyEngineering Enterprise & EntrepreneurshipEquine ManagementEvent PlanningFinancial StudiesJournalismLand & Wildlife(Countryside Conservation)Media DigitalMedia ProductionMusic PerformanceMusic TechnologyPerforming ArtsPre-TeachingPsychology (Applied)Public Services (Uniformed)Resort RepresentativeSport & Exercise ScienceSport & Physical ActivityTravel & TourismTravel & Tourism with Hospitality & Event Management
3031313338454850505161
62666768697074767677818283
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NEWChildcare & Education T-levelDesign, Surveying & Planning for Construction T-levelDigital: Production, Design &Development T-levelDigital Business ServicesDigital Support ServicesHealth & Science: HealthHealth & Science: Healthcare ScienceHealth & Science: ScienceYet-T
37
40
40414257
575884
LEVEL 2 GCSEVOCATIONAL
Animal CareBusinessEnglish Language GCSEEquine CareFunctional Skills - EnglishFunctional Skills - MathsHealth & Social CareICTLand & Wildlife(Countryside Conservation)Mathematics: Foundation GCSEMathematics: Higher GCSEMilitary Preparation Course (MPC) (Uniformed Public Services)SportUpgrade
3033464954545859
616565
688184
A-LEVELS
COURSE DIRECTORY25www.cirencester.ac.uk
Business Studies English Literature Law PsychologyCitizenship Foreign Language Maths Religious StudiesComputer Science Geography Music Science (Single , Double, Triple or Level 2 Merit)English Language History Philosophy Sociology
Students taking Level 1 Vocational Courses are required to gain mainly
Grade 1s and 2s at GCSE.
Students taking Level 2 Vocational
Progression Courses are required to gain 3 or more GCSEs at Grade 3 or above.
LEVEL 2
CORE SUBJECTS
LEVEL 1
Entry Requirements
26 www.cirencester.ac.uk
Business Studies English Literature Law PsychologyCitizenship Foreign Language Maths Religious StudiesComputer Science Geography Music Science (Single , Double, Triple or Level 2 Merit)English Language History Philosophy Sociology
Entry Requirements * Some A-level courses require a higher grade in specific subjects (please see individual courses in the course listing for these).
Students are required to gain at least 5
GCSEs at Grade 4 including 5 from the
core subjects.*
Students are required to gain at least 5 GCSEs at
Grade 4, including 3 from the core subjects
or Distinction at Level 2 with Englishand Maths.
A-LEVEL
LEVEL 3VOCATIONAL
COURSES&
27www.cirencester.ac.uk
A-LEVEL
A-LEVEL
• Chartered Accountant• Company Secretary• Forensic Accountant
• Data Analyst • Economist• Corporate Finance
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
WHAT TO EXPECT?If you enjoy working with numbers and have an eye for detail, and a fantastic memory, accounting is a great career choice. A dynamic and interesting subject, accounting enables you to problem solve with numbers, interpret numerical data, produce financial reports and make informed business decisions. We will be investigating how finance and financial reporting differs for a variety of businesses, and how management accounting techniques, such as costing and forecasting, can help businesses make decisions about the future.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above all from the core subjects.Course Specific Entry Requirement: Grade 6 at GCSE Maths. This is in addition to the college’s general entry requirements. Students should also be aware that, like other mathematical subjects, learning formulae and layouts is an integral part of the course, which demands that students should have excellent memorising skills.
* Accountants are the backbone of all businesses, and in 2018 over half of the Chief Executive Officers of the 100 largest UK companies were chartered accountants (Source: ICAEW). The Accountancy Profession contributed £59 billion to UK GDP in 2017 and is likely to expand. By 2023 it is predicted that this sector will expand its workforce by at least 3.7%; every organisation, business and charity needs someone who understands the numbers! The average salary for a Chartered Accountant is £44,200.
Progression:
• Archivist • Heritage Manager • Barrister
• Museum/Gallery Curator • Teacher • Archaeologist
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
WHAT TO EXPECT?Explore the ancient world and understand how its legacy affects society today. We embark on a voyage of discovery that takes you first overseas through the incredible story of the cataclysmic clash of two of the greatest cultures of the ancient world - Greece and Persia. Following this, the epic scale of the Greek victory which led to the devastating war for supremacy between Sparta and Athens is analysed. We will then look at the society and politics of Sparta in more detail, focusing in on the contributions that different groups and individuals made to the development of the city-state in the 5th Century BC. The Roman element starts with a detailed study of the Julio-Claudian Emperors - Augustus, the first Emperor - to Nero, whose reputation will be a focus of discussion, through to the invasion and Romanisation of Britain. Where better to study this fantastic period than Cirencester? An exciting and engaging A-level with straightforward assessment. Ideally suited for those also studying Classics or History, or a really good complementary subject for Sociology, Philosophy, Ethics and Religion and English, or possibly a wonderful stand-alone subject for anybody aiming for a university course in Archaeology, History or Classics.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above all from the core subjects.
* Ancient History is a course that helps students hone their analytical and critical thinking skills. This ideally suits students going to University or going straight into the workplace. Three of the top five jobs held by history graduates employed in the UK after six months of graduation are marketing associate professional, teaching assistant and human resources and industrial relations officer. The teaching profession is expected to expand by 4.3% in 2023, the average salary for a teaching professional is £29,640.
Accounting
Ancient History
NEW COURSE
2YEARS
A-LEV
EL
2YEARS
A-LEV
EL
Progression:
28 www.cirencester.ac.uk
Ancient History and
Classics takes in almost every aspect of
life in Ancient Greece and Rome, from the literature and
history, to the art and beliefs. So, whatever you’re interested in, there’s
something for everyone!
OLLIE TURNEY(Highworth Warneford)
A-level Ancient History, Classic Civilisations and German
29www.cirencester.ac.uk
• Zookeeper• Veterinary Nurse• Rescue Centre Staff
• Conservation Officer • Marine Biologist• Animal Welfare Officer
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
WHAT TO EXPECT?Our unique animal course enables you to develop a wide range of valuable skills essential for success in a variety of careers with animals. We have a wide range of study and assessment methods to suit all students. You will have the chance to work with and study a variety of animal species in our specialised Animal Centre and be taught by experts in their specific fields. In the second year of the course, we study specific modules which would help lead to careers in Veterinary Nursing and Zoo Management and you will have the opportunity to learn from our partners such as the Cotswold Wildlife Park. As part of this course, students will undertake a work experience unit which will offer valuable experience working in this sector. With the knowledge from this course you can progress to Higher Education including foundation degrees, undergraduate degrees, apprenticeships or directly into employment within the industry.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including 3 from the core subjects or distinction at Level 2.
* The Animal Care industry accounts for 78,000 employees to the UK across 13,000 different businesses. A Zookeeper can earn up to £25,000 a year. The average salary of a Veterinary Nurse in the UK is £21,320 with 5.5% more nurses needed by 2023.
Progression:
A-LEVEL
• Zoo Keeper• Veterinary Nurse• Rescue Centre Staff
• Conservation Officer • Marine Biologist• Animal Welfare Officer
WHAT TO EXPECT?This exciting and active course will give you the chance to work with and study a variety of animals in both practical and classroom settings. There are two pathways for this course, which helps you gain academic and practical experience with either small or large animals including reptiles, fish, invertebrates, rodents, birds, farm animals, horses and domestic pets – either on the College site or at our local yard. This course will support you in developing a range of real employability skills as well as the personal qualities and attitudes needed for success in a working life with animals. It can also enable you to progress to Level 3 courses.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 3 GCSEs at Grade 3.
* The animal care industry is forecast to reach £2.1 billion by 2023. It is estimated that 12 million households own a pet – with around 51 million pets owned in the UK.
Progression:
Animal Care 1YEARS
CERT
VOCATIONALLEVEL 2
Animal Management
Art& Design
Biology(Applied Human Biology)
2YEARS
EXT D
IP2YEARS
DIPLO
MA
VOCATIONALLEVEL 3
30 www.cirencester.ac.uk
• Fine Artist• Community Arts Worker• Printmaker• Teacher
• Theatre Designer• Gallery/Museum Curator• Special Effects
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
WHAT TO EXPECT?This is an exciting, creative and demanding course (equivalent to 2 A-levels) offering you a broad base of practical ‘making’ experiences and skills for personal exploration and creativity. It is suited to learners who are committed to following a career in an area of art, design or craft. You will have opportunities over two years to exhibit and sell work in public venues, explore materials and techniques, develop a substantial portfolio of work and visit interesting places for research and inspiration. The course has its own base room, dedicated staff and excellent facilities in a friendly, hard-working and exam free environment. Work experience is seen as a crucial part of the course, with opportunities to join enrichment classes and also take an A-level alongside.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above all from the core subjects.
Progression:
* New government figures show the country’s successful creative industries contributed £111.7 billion to the UK economy in 2018 and employ more than 2 million people.
• Health• Conservation• Lab technician
• Nursing• Physiotherapist
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
WHAT TO EXPECT?Are you fascinated by how the human body works? Do you want to learn more about this incredible machine? If so, our exciting Applied Human Biology course is perfect for you! Have you ever wondered exactly how the body is able to control and maintain different internal conditions? What do cells actually do with the food we eat? Why do some people’s immune systems attack their own cells? How do bacteria, viruses and other pathogens specifically cause disease? These are just some of the questions you will explore the answers to. You will also have the opportunity during the course to design and carry out your own investigation and work in our state-of the-art lab. The course is delivered by experienced and approachable lecturers who are there to support you throughout your learning. Human biology is an enthralling subject and we look forward to sharing our enthusiasm for it with you!
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: GCSE Grade 4 or higher incl. English and Science (either 4, 4 in combined or a 4 in Biology.)
* There are approximately 50,000 people employed in applied health science occupations and over 3 million nurses in the UK. The health and health science sectors have a crucial role to play in improving and supporting the health of the nation.
Course Specific Entry Requirement: A Grade 5 is required in an Art subject or DISTINCTION at BTEC Level 2 in an Art or Design subject. Entry will also be by interview where candidates will have the opportunity to show a portfolio of their work and ask questions with the Course Leader.
Art& Design
Biology(Applied Human Biology)
2YEARS
DIPLO
MA
VOCATIONALLEVEL 3
VOCATIONALLEVEL 3 2
YEARS
EXT CERT
NEW COURSEProgression:
Want to see some of our talented students work? See our Vision 2020 Art Exhibition (Page 124)or visit our online gallery at: http://blogs.cirencester.ac.uk/artgallery/
31www.cirencester.ac.uk
A-LEVEL
Biology
• Biological sciences• Medicine• Veterinary medicine
• Dentistry• Zoology• Agriculture
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
WHAT TO EXPECT?Do you want to make a difference in the world? The study of Biology will prepare you for a variety of careers, from conservation to medicine, where you can do just that! The course is delivered by a team of enthusiastic, knowledgeable and approachable lecturers who will introduce you to the wonderful diversity of the biological sciences. Have you ever wondered how your heart is able to beat on its own? How exactly does your immune system protect you from constant attack? Why are the bacteria living in your gut so important? Perhaps you’re interested in the diversity of life and how it’s classified? Have birds really evolved from dinosaurs? Could GM crops reduce world hunger? These are just some of the areas we will explore. Throughout the course you will also carry out a range of investigations to improve your practical skills, problem solving ability and confidence, applying your knowledge to new and different contexts. We think Biology is an awe-inspiring subject and we hope you will too!
Progression:
* The South West is a major centre of biomedical research with 15,000 people employed across 450 companies. Many individuals that study biology go into the health profession working in a wide range of jobs for the NHS, the 5th biggest employer in the world. Many will also take biology into further study; a third of biology degree students go on to do a Masters or Doctorate.
At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above all from the core subjects.Course Specific Entry Requirement: Grade 6 in Biology or 6 in both Core and Additional Science, 5 in Maths and English.
DANIEL TYE(Cirencester Deer Park)A-levels Biology, Chemistry and Geography
It’s fascinating, in Biology, diving into the commonplace processes taking place in the plants and animals we see, and continuously behind the scenes within our bodies, of which each have their own captivating complexity.
2YEAR
A-LEV
EL
32 www.cirencester.ac.uk
* There were more than 5.7 million businesses recorded in the UK in 2018. Graduates entering business, management or consultancy can expect high starting salaries of £25,000 to £35,000 excluding bonuses, rising quickly to around £50,000.
Progression:
Progression:
Course Specific Entry Requirement: Grade 4 in Maths AND English.
• Apprenticeship• Business Administration
• Retail• Business
Our Level 2 Business course provides a great introduction to the world of business, examining concepts and ideas and giving you the opportunity to gain practical work experience, helping you to understand how and why businesses operate. You will learn by completing projects and assignments that are based on realistic workplace situations, activities and demands. Our course is designed to take you straight into employment, an apprenticeship or progression onto our Level 3 business qualifications.
* Between 2010 and 2019 4.2 million people have successfully started an Apprenticeship. The average salary for a business administrator is £23,400.
• International Business• Business with Marketing• Human Resources
• Business Manager• Customer Service• Sales Manager
Business is everywhere - from your local corner shop to big multinational organisations like Apple and Google. When you start work you will be working in a business of some sort. So, whatever career path you choose, having a good grounding in business will be a major benefit to you. Our Business courses are taught by lecturers with a wealth of industry experience and they will provide you with an insight into what’s involved in running a business, how it is organised and financed, plus the importance of effective communication and marketing. On this vocational course, you’ll also have the opportunity to run your own business event and undertake a week’s work experience.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 including 3 from the core subjects or distinction at Level 2.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 3 GCSEs at Grade 3.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
WHAT TO EXPECT?
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
A-LEVELBusiness 1
YEARSTEC CERT
VOCATIONALLEVEL 2
Business VOCATIONALLEVEL 3 2
YEARS
DIPLO
MA
2YEARS
EXT D
IP
33www.cirencester.ac.uk
I loved the idea that I could mix A-level with a BTEC. I enjoy the BTEC Business course as it is all coursework and I can work on assignments in my own time and not have to worry about an exam at the end of the two years.
ELLA MAXWELL(Thomas Keble)BTEC Business Level 3Psychology A-level
34 www.cirencester.ac.uk
Progression:
Progression:
Course Specific Entry Requirement: Grade 5 in Maths and Grade 4 in English.
Course Specific Entry Requirement: Grade 6 in Chemistry or 6 in both Core and Additional Science. 6 in Maths.
• Business Management • Economics • Law and Business
• Mathematics in Business • Computing in Business
• Chemist• Forensic Scientist• Toxicologist
• Doctor• Healthcare
Career opportunities within science and technology are seeing unprecedented growth across the world, and so those who study chemistry or another natural science at university are seeing their career prospects develop right before their eyes.
How can you be sure your product will be popular? How can you improve your company’s reputation? How do you re-structure your business if it means making people redundant? Learn how to deal with the pressures of running businesses of all sizes, from sole traders to being in charge of multinationals like Apple or Coca-Cola. You will make and justify decisions on Finance, Marketing, Operations and Human Resources, just as you would have to in real businesses and consider how you would satisfy the needs and wants of shareholders, employees, local communities and suppliers. If you understand how business works, you understand how the world works.
Chemistry is everywhere, from the reactions happening in your body keeping you alive, to the shampoo you use to wash your hair, or even the fuel needed to heat your home or run your car! Studying Chemistry involves an exploration of matter at a molecular level, it is often seen as the ‘central’ science providing insights into a variety of interlinking physical and biological phenomena. Have you ever wondered; What makes perfume smell? How fireworks have so many different colours? How new drugs are discovered? These are just some of the questions you will be able to answer by studying Chemistry. Throughout the course you will have the opportunity to carry out a wide range of practicals in a state-of-the-art laboratory, developing your critical thinking, analytical and problem solving skills with the guidance of enthusiastic and knowledgeable lecturers. Chemistry is an important subject for many different careers including medicine, environmental science, engineering, space exploration, developing perfumes and cosmetics. The skills developed are transferable and highly valued by many other professions including Business, Law and ICT.
* There were more than 5.7 million businesses recorded in the UK in 2018. Graduates entering business, management or consultancy can expect high starting salaries of £25,000 to £35,000 excluding bonuses, rising quickly to around £50,000.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above all from the core subjects.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above all from the core subjects.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
WHAT TO EXPECT?
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
A-LEVEL
A-LEVEL
BusinessStudies
Chemistry
2YEARS
A-LEV
EL
2YEARS
A-LEV
EL
35www.cirencester.ac.uk
ELLA PYWELL (Cirencester Deer Park)A-levels Biology, Chemistry andGeography
I would like to be involved in scientific research surrounding sport, health/medicine.
I hope to go on to do Physiology /Biomedical Sciences after I have completed my studies at College.
36 www.cirencester.ac.uk
Progression:
Progression:
Course Specific Entry Requirement: Grade 4 in Maths and English.
• Early Years Practitioner• Primary School Teacher
• Public Relations• Archaeologist• The Civil Service
• Teaching• Museum/Gallery Curator• Law
This T-level is the new gold standard qualification and is ideal for those who want to work in a childcare setting such as a nursery, early-years centre, playgroup or crèche. Alternately students also may want to work in Primary Education and this qualification would allow them to progress to university. This two-year, full time course consists of three days in the classroom and two days on mandatory work placement. This means you will gain the knowledge and skills required to become a successful childcare practitioner, putting class theory into practice in an interesting and supportive environment. Throughout the course you will gain essential knowledge about how children grow and develop, the provision of care, education systems and how best to work with parents and professionals alike.
Classical Civilisation is the original Humanities subject and will appeal to those with an interest in a past that shapes our present in so many ways. Centred on the study of Ancient Greece and Rome, this highly regarded subject is perfect for students interested in a course that links political, social and military history, literature, philosophy, theatre and poetry. Please note, we work with translated texts these days, so no Greek or Latin is required.
* In Spring 2016 there were an estimated 3.1 million Ofsted registered childcare places in England. Of this, approximately 39% are group based providers (e.g. nurseries), 53% school based providers and 9% are childminders. This means there is an estimated 452,100 staff working in a childcare setting. Primary School teachers can earn on average £35,360 with an increase of 4.3% by 2023.
* Three of the top five jobs held by history graduates employed in the UK after six months of graduation are marketing associate professional, teaching assistant and human resources and industrial relations officer. The average salary for a Classics graduate is £24,100 dependent on career path chosen.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including 3 from the core subjects.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above all from the core subjects.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
WHAT TO EXPECT?
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
T-LEVELSChildcare
& Education 2YEARS
T-LEVEL
A-LEVELClassical Civilisation 2
YEARS
A-LEV
EL
37www.cirencester.ac.uk
Progression:
Course Specific Entry Requirement: GCSE Maths Grade 6. GCSE Computer Science is not a requirement for studying the A-level, but if you have taken GCSE Computer Science you will need to achieve at least a Grade 4.
• Artificial Intelligence Engineer• Computer Systems Engineer• Software Engineer
Do you want to know how computers really work and run your software? Do you want to learn how to write applications or improve your programming skills? Do you like solving problems? If you do, then A-level Computer Science is for you. Through theoretical analysis and hands-on practical work, you will learn the core principles of computing and programming and how to apply them. You don’t need to have taken GCSE Computer Science to do this A-level, but good mathematical and logical skills are essential.
* The of new tech companies in the UK rose by 14% in 2018. The Digital sector is the fastest growing part of the British economy with the main concentration of Tech companies being along the M4 corridor and in the South West. Programmers and software development professionals can expect to earn on average salary of £42,640.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above all from the core subjects.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
* Within the UK, the Government are one of the largest employers and many jobs within the area are public sector. There are many individual employers such as different police forces, the Ministry of Justice and the prison service. The number of people employed in the public sector continues to increase; for example, the prison service has increased staff levels by almost 10% since 2017. A range of new apprenticeships are currently being planned for the sector, including the probation, prison and police services.
Progression: • National Probation Service• Police• Social Work
This exciting course takes a social sciences approach to the study of crime as an individual and social phenomenon. Criminology takes a deeper dive into crime, examining forms of crime, this includes the incidence and forms of crime, as well as its causes and consequences. This course is designed to support learners to access Higher Education courses and careers in the criminal justice sector, social and probation work, plus sociology and psychology fields. The course contains a large vocational element which focuses on the application of knowledge to authentic case studies.ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including 3 from the core subjects.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
A-LEVELComputerScience 2
YEARSA
-LEVEL
Criminology VOCATIONALLEVEL 3 2
YEARS
APPLIED
D
IPLOM
A
38 www.cirencester.ac.uk
A-LEVEL
3D Design
• Architecture• Industrial design• Product design
• Graphic Design• Merchandiser• Design Engineer
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
WHAT TO EXPECT?This is a creative course that allows you to design, make and model environmental products and artefacts. 3D Design requires high levels of visual awareness, including drawing skills and the ability to work skilfully with tools and materials. You will create functional and decorative designs in response to given starting points or project briefs.
Progression:
* Product designers can earn on average £30,680. The demand for architects is rising by 3.7% by 2023 and an architect can earn on average a salary of £45,240.
At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above all from the core subjects.
Course Specific Entry Requirement: To help us give the best advice and guidance it is really beneficial if you have photographs of your art/design work with you when you come to any interview or enrolment.If you have not studied a creative visual course at GCSE, entry may also be made via portfolio/interview.
Your portfolio should include drawings, photos, things you have made and any other evidence of creative work.
CERYS O’BRIEN(Rednock)A-level 3D Design, Mathematics andPhysics
Artwork by
2YEARS
A-LEV
EL
Want to see some of our talented students work? See our Vision 2020 Art Exhibition (Page 124)
or visit our online gallery at:http://blogs.cirencester.ac.uk/artgallery/
39www.cirencester.ac.uk
• Civil Engineer• Design & Development Engineer• Architect
• Town Planning• Chartered and Quantity Surveying• Construction Project Manager
• Software Development Technician• Junior Developer• Junior Web Developer• Junior Application Developer• Junior Mobile App Developer• Junior Games Developer
• Junior Software Developer• Junior Application Support Analyst• Junior Programmer• Assistant Programmer• Automated Test Developer
From materials science, design concepts, landscape surveying and town planning to learning about construction, management and the built environment, this course provides a superb grounding in one of the most exciting parts of this multi-billion pound industry. You’ll cover a core set of underpinning knowledge, concepts and skills, and then move on to specialist content covering occupational or industry specific skills. There will also be an industry placement with an employer which will last for a minimum of 45 working days.
To be ready for a career in the Software Design and Development industry, you will learn the fundamental essentials behind all digital roles by understanding data and digital systems, how software and business interact, security, testing, planning and legal issues. You then build on this, in the 2nd year, by developing specialist skills in understanding user needs and designing and developing digital systems. There will be an industry placement with an employer which will last for a minimum of 45 working days.
* Construction output in the UK is more than £110 billion per annum and contributes 7% of GDP. The industry employers 3.1 million people or over 9% of the workforce.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above including 3 from the core subjects.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including 3 from the core subjects.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
WHAT TO EXPECT?
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
T-LEVELS
T-LEVELS
Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction
Digital Production, Design & Development
2YEARS
T-LEVEL
2YEARS
T-LEVEL
NEW COURSE
NEW COURSE
Progression:
Progression:
40 www.cirencester.ac.uk
T-LEVELNEW COURSE 2
YEARS
T-LEVEL
Digital Business Services
• Data Technician• Junior Data Analyst• Junior Business Analyst• Junior Business Intelligence Analyst
• Assistant E-Commerance Advisor• Business Information Systems Technician
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
WHAT TO EXPECT?To be ready for a career in the Digital Business Information Systems industry, you will learn the essentials of all digital roles by understanding data and digital systems, how software and business interact, security, testing, planning and legal issues. You then build on this, in the 2nd year, by developing specialist skills as a data technician to understand how to source, analyse and interpret data to support business needs. There will be an industry placement with an employer which will last for a minimum of 45 working days.
At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including 3 from the core subjects.
NEW COURSE
NEW COURSE
NEW COURSE
Progression:
Progression:
Progression:
Careers in Digital* The UK’s tech sector is growing at 2.5 times the rate of the economy
but the UK is still facing a major Digital Skills shortage. The sector needs people with skills across the board. Starting salaries for graduate
technology jobs have risen to a national median of £31,500 in 2019.
41www.cirencester.ac.uk
To be ready for a career in Digital Systems Support Services industry, you will learn the fundamental essentials of all digital roles by understanding data and digital systems, how software and business interact, security, testing, planning and legal issues. You will then have the chance, in the 2nd year, to specialise in one of these areas:
• Digital Infrastructure• Digital Support• Network Cabling• Unified Communications
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including 3 from the core subjects.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
Progression: • Actor • Community Arts Worker • Dancer
• Drama Therapist • Theatre Director • Teacher
Develop your skills in a variety of theatre-making roles and styles of theatre, with the aim of progressing as a performer, deviser, director and designer of theatre, through practical and theoretical study of the contemporary and historical plays. You will perform or design an original devised piece of theatre and existing scripts, and present director’s proposals for interpretation of plays, inspired by creative practitioners and contemporary audience tastes. You will also review and evaluate live theatre productions, analysing in detail how the show uses performance and production elements to engage an audience.
* According to the latest figures (2018), there are around 296,000 people working in music, performing and visual arts in the UK. The top jobs held by drama and theatre graduates employed in the UK include actors, entertainers and presenters, arts officers, producers, directors, dancers and choreographers.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above all from the core subjects.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
T-LEVELSDigital Support & Services 2YEARS
T-LEVEL
NEWCOURSE
A-LEVELDrama & TheatreStudies
2YEARS
A-LEV
EL
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
• Infrastructure Technician• IT Support Technician• Desktop Support Assistant• Junior Systems Security Analyst• Helpline Support Advisor
• Assistant Network Administrator• Junior Data Communications Analysist• Cabling Assistant
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
NEW COURSEProgression:
42 www.cirencester.ac.uk
I love Performing Arts because it’s my
passion. My ambition is to continue my
education in the performing arts industry and pursue a career
in acting and just generally doing what makes me happy!
AMYE SULLIVAN(Carterton)
BTEC Performing ArtsA-level Fine Art
NEW COURSEProgression:
43www.cirencester.ac.uk
Progression:
Progression:
• Economist• Statistician• Investment Analyst
• Data Analyst• Investment Banker• Environmental Agencies
• Electronics Engineer• IT Consultant• Network Engineer
• Aerospace Engineer• Design Engineer• Systems Analyst
If you want to know what society does about high prices, globally powerful firms, a limited choice of goods, underdeveloped countries and poverty, this is the course for you. You will examine questions such as “Why do film stars get paid more than nurses?” and “Why should the government pay young people to study?” You will engage in lots of debate and discussion in class and may find the world around you makes more sense after studying economics. Students enjoy the real world application of the subject and many end up going on to study economics at University.
Modern life is controlled by electronic devices. In the study of electronics, you will gain an understanding of the building blocks for these circuits and their individual components. You will develop skills needed to design and build your own circuits. You will study areas such as; logic, wireless communication, analogue circuits and micro-controllers. This course is an excellent complement to courses in Science, Engineering, Computing and Communications. There is a large focus on practical work and circuit simulation culminating in two pieces of coursework contributing 20% to your overall grade.
* The largest employer of economists is the Civil Service. The Bank of England also provides vacancies through their graduate programme. Economists on average can earn £57,200 a year.
* Electronic engineers can also work on a variety of different products including defence, mobile phones and nanotechnology. An Electronics Engineer can earn on average £45,760.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above all from the core subjects.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above all from the core subjects.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
WHAT TO EXPECT?
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Course Specific Entry Requirement: Grade 4 in both Core & Additional Science. Grade 5 in Maths.
Course Specific Entry Requirement: Grade 5 in Maths.
A-LEVEL
A-LEVEL
Economics
Electronics
2YEARS
A-LEV
EL
2YEARS
A-LEV
EL
44 www.cirencester.ac.uk
KIANA BEPETE(Malmesbury)Engineering Subsidiary DiplomaTravel & Tourism Diploma
I enjoy having the opportunity to do research and complete my assignments throughout the courses. I like the fact that both my subjects are Vocational.
Engineering
• Aerospace Engineer• Automotive Engineer• Renewables Engineer
• Maintenance Engineer• CAD Operator• Mechanical Engineer
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
WHAT TO EXPECT?Modern life depends on engineers to develop, support and control the products and systems that are all around us. For example, cars, heart rate monitors and manufacturing and transport systems. To make a contribution as an engineer you must be able to draw on an important range of principles developed by early engineering scientists, such as Newton, Young, Faraday and Ohm. There is an increasing demand for ‘multi-skilled’ engineers who can apply principles from several engineering disciplines to develop solutions. This course provides a general engineering education through a range of units. Which are always set in a vocational context giving you deeper understanding of the Engineering industry. Some of the content draws on students’ maths and physics skills and knowledge and students are expected to be confident in these areas.
You will have a written exam and an externally set task, in addition to internally assessed assignments.
Progression:
* The engineering sector is the second biggest employer in the South West, nearly 130,000 people work in it. The sector also has issues of an ageing workforce; they are actively looking to hire and train young people.265,000 skilled workers are needed in the Engineering sector annually until 2024. The starting salary for an Engineer ranges from £20,000 to £25,000 depending on pathway. Apprenticeship salaries vary from £13,000 to £22,000.
At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including 3 from the core subjects.Course Specific Entry Requirement: Grade 5 Maths.
VOCATIONALLEVEL 3
Kiana Bepete
2YEARS
EXT D
IP2YEARS
DIPLO
MA
45www.cirencester.ac.uk
The GCSE course in English Language will involve you having to write stories, letters and newspaper articles as well as reading extracts from novels and journalism, some of which will be from the 1800’s. We aim to make you more confident with your writing and discussing ideas in class. The Speaking and Listening element is marked separately and you can, if you want, just keep your score from your previous school. If you are having to re-take English, you may not feel happy about it. However, we really do our best to make it interesting by looking at exciting topics. Of course, we also help you to develop the core skills you need to pass this time.
* English Language students develop a wide range of skills that are valuable to graduate employers including: how to argue a point, how to think independently, to summarise and précis, to write and speak well, to write reports, to present information effectively and to work as part of a team.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
Progression: • Journalism• Publishing• Public Relations
• The Civil Service• Teaching• Copywriter
Do you want to learn how to effectively write stories, articles and reviews? Do you want to learn how the English Language developed, and is developing over time? Do you want to become a more effective speaker and listener? Then English Language A-level is the course for you!
On this course, you will be equipped with the linguistic skills and terminology to be able to become a more effective speaker and writer. You will learn how to write creatively, how the English Language has changed over time and how to understand and analyse the rules and codes which operate whenever we speak. You also learn about how children, men and women use language as well as accents and dialects.
This course fits well with any other subject where you have to communicate as it gives you the skills to improve the clarity, fluency and variety of your communication, both spoken and written.
* English Language graduates develop a wide range of skills that are valuable to graduate employers including: how to argue a point, how to think independently, to summarise and précis, to write and speak well, to write reports, to present information effectively and to work as part of a team.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above all from the core subjects.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Course Specific Entry Requirement: GCSE English at Grade 5.
For students progressing into Higher Education and most employment opportunities will require a minimum of a Grade 4 in English.
GCSE
A-LEVEL
EnglishLanguage
EnglishLanguage
1YEAR
GCSE
2YEARS
A-LEV
EL
46 www.cirencester.ac.uk
Progression:
Progression:
• Journalism• Publishing• Public Relations
• The Civil Service• Teaching• Copywriter
• Journalism• Publishing• Public Relations
• The Civil Service• Teaching• Marketing
The A-level English Literature course will provide you with the opportunity to read, discuss and analyse a diverse range of classic English and American texts, which explore themes such as love and death, truth and deception, gender and relationships, disillusionment and despair. The course will involve you in an in-depth study of Renaissance and modern tragic drama, enable you to explore the work of major nineteenth and twentieth century poets and immerse you in the comparative analysis of two critically acclaimed modern novels. You will gain clear, critical insights into these works, polish your analytical and essay-writing skills and develop your grasp of literary techniques and terminology, enhancing your ability to evaluate both set texts and ‘unseen’ prose and poetry. If you really enjoy reading literature and then exploring the moral, philosophical and emotional issues which arise, this is the course for you.
The combined English Language & Literature course will introduce you to an exciting range of English and American literature, exploring themes such as love, sex, sexuality, deception and death. The course will also help you to develop your understanding of linguistic and literary techniques, equipping you with the skills to analyse different kinds of literary and non-literary texts. So, if you enjoy taking part in discussion, writing essays and reading novels, plays and poetry which explore moral issues, dysfunctional relationships, gender roles, alienation and human identity, but also want to impress your friends with your knowledge of abstract nouns, adverbials, late eighteenth century romantic poetry and fronted conjunctions, this is the course for you!
Careers in English* A quarter of English graduates go on to further study, almost 30% of whom are studying towards a teacher training qualification and a
quarter continue to study English. This is also a popular option for those that want to go into PR and marketing, where good use of language is key.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above all from the core subjects.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above all from the core subjects.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
WHAT TO EXPECT?
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Course Specific Entry Requirement: GCSE English at Grade 5.
Course Specific Entry Requirement: GCSE English at Grade 5.
A-LEVEL
A-LEVEL
EnglishLiterature
EnglishLanguage & Literature
2YEARS
A-LEV
EL
2YEARS
A-LEV
EL
47www.cirencester.ac.uk
• Business• Business Management• Economics
This course is designed for learners who are interested in learning about enterprise and entrepreneurship alongside their other fields of study, with a view to progressing to a wide range of higher education courses. You will explore the creativity and mindset of real life entrepreneurs, their importance to the local economy and investigate the skills required to become successful.
* Owning your own business and being self-employed is becoming increasingly popular among young people. Gloucestershire also has one of the highest success rates for new start-up businesses, with survival and growth rates exceeding the national averages.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including 3 from the core subjects.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Progression:
Course Specific Entry Requirement: GCSE Maths Grade 4.
• Environmental Consultant • Environmental Manager • Marine Biologist
• Recycling Officer • Sustainability Consultant • Waste Management Officer
This course is for anyone interested in getting beyond the headlines about environmental issues and discovering the science behind the stories. You will look at how our environment works and how we manage and conserve our vital resources. Themes include wildlife conservation, pollution issues, global warming and the future use of energy. Understanding the science behind many of the pressures facing our planet in the 21st Century equips students with valuable transferable skills that are in ever-growing demand. Many of our students choose to study Environmental Science/Sustainability related courses at university and/or pursue employment opportunities in this sector.
* An estimated 595,000 more workers are needed in the Environment and Sustainability sector by 2020. Waste management salaries up to £65,000. An Environmental Consultant can earn between £22,000 and £60,000 and a Marine Engineer can earn between £24,000 and £55,000.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above all from the core subjects.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Enterprise &Entrepreneurship
VOCATIONALLEVEL 3 2
YEARSEX
T CERT
1YEAR
CERT
A-LEVELEnvironmental
Science 2YEARS
A-LEV
EL
NEW COURSEProgression:
48 www.cirencester.ac.uk
• Equine work • Farming • Agriculture
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
WHAT TO EXPECT?This course is suitable for those wishing to pursue a career in horse care. You will have the opportunity to study a number of horse related topics such as, horse health and welfare, horse nutrition, stable duties, lunging horses. You will study in a practical location at our own yard, and at the College. This will provide you with the knowledge and skills to progress into the world of work, or onto the Level 3 course. You will also have the opportunity to do work experience and develop your employability skills.
* Agriculture is a massive industry in the UK; 57% of land in the UK is used for it! There are 280,000 farms in the UK, which all help to manage the British countryside helping to bring in over £21 billion in tourism each year. A horse groom can earn on average £16,000 a year.
At least 3 GCSEs at Grade 3.
Course Specific: Having some experience with horses is beneficial.
Equine Care
VOCATIONALLEVEL 2
Progression:
1YEAR
TECH CERT
NEW COURSEProgression:
49www.cirencester.ac.uk
* The hospitality sector has created one in five new jobs since 2010 and aiming to generate a further 100,000 new jobs by 2020, according to the British Hospitality Association (BHA). One of the fastest expanding areas for this sector is in London with museums, theme parks, hotels and sports grounds such as London Stadium in the Olympic park. An Event Manager can earn from £17,000 to £80,000 a year depending on experience.
*The South West is the biggest and most rural of all English regions. Nearly 120,000 people work in its land-based sector. Horse Riding Instructors can earn up to £25,000 per year.
Progression:
• Event Management • Hospitality Industry
• Travel and Tourism Industry • Event planner
• Equine Veterinarian • Animal Breeder • Animal Trainer
• Riding Instructor • Stable Manager
This qualification is suitable for learners interested in planning events. It provides an overview of the skills required for successful event planning, organisation and evaluation. This is a short course aimed at Level 3 students. This course can be taken alongside any Level 3 programme.
This course is suitable for those with existing knowledge or experience of working with horses. You will have the opportunity to study a number of different horse related topics such as Horse Biology and Anatomy and Physiotherapy, Horse Behaviour, The Horse Racing Industry, Horse Rehabilitation and Therapy, Horse Nutrition, Stable Management, Care of the Competition Horse, Business Management - amongst many others. You will study in a practical location at our own yard and at the College. This will provide you with the knowledge and skills to progress into the world of work, or into Higher Education, and enable you to achieve your career goals.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including 3 from the core subjects.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including 3 from the core subjects or distinction at Level 2.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
WHAT TO EXPECT?
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES Progression:
EquineManagement
VOCATIONALLEVEL 3 2
YEARSA
DVA
NCED
TECH
NIC
AL
DIPLO
MA
EventPlanning 1
YEAR
CERT
VOCATIONALLEVEL 3
50 www.cirencester.ac.uk
* Financial and professional services industry contributes £176bn to the UK economy which is 10.7%. The industry employs 7.3% of the UK’s working population, totalling more than 2.2m people. The financial services remain the UK’s largest tax paying sector, contributing 11.5% of the total. The average earnings for a Financial Advisor range between £25,000 and £90,000. Management Accountants can earn an average of up to £100,000 per annum.
Progression: • Chartered Accountant• Company Secretary• Forensic Accountant
• Data Analyst• Economist• Management Accountant
Considering a career in Banking, Insurance and/or Financial Services? Need help managing your money and/or choosing Financial Products? Want to know how the UK financial system works?
This course can help you decide if a job in insurance or banking, or as a financial advisor is for you. It is recognised by universities and ‘worth’ the same number of UCAS points as standard A-levels. In addition, it may help you make better-informed choices about your own finances. If you want a career in Financial Services or just want to learn how to make confident decisions about your finances, then this is the course for you! This two-year course is tailored for students interested in entering financial services as a career.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including 3 from the core subjects.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Progression:
Film is a powerful medium. Studying Film at A-level will offer you the opportunity to investigate how films generate meanings and ways in which we respond to them. You will engage with a wide variety of inspiring and challenging films including both mainstream and independent American, British and European films from the past and the present. For example, we start the course by looking at the film Pan’s Labyrinth, considering how film form (such as colour, lighting and camera shots) creates meaning, as well as examining the political, social and institutional contexts. During the course, you will also do some creative work by producing either a film sequence or a screenplay. You will draw on existing films and scripts to develop a portfolio that will inform your work. Through a range of activities including class discussions, presentations and writing, you will be able to develop your critical thinking and independent learning skills, inspiring you to watch a wider range of films!
* UK film industry has increased massively over the last few years, in 6 years global takings for UK films grew by 470% from $2 billion to $9.4 billion. The UK has become known for its high quality crews and quality state-of-the-art studios and facilities and attracts much foreign investment.
• Marketing• Editor• Film Event Organiser
• Set Designer• Programme Researcher• Location Manager
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above all from the core subjects.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
FinancialStudies
VOCATIONALLEVEL 3 2
YEARS
DIPLO
MA
1YEAR
CERT
A-LEVELFilm
Studies 2YEARS
A-LEV
EL
51www.cirencester.ac.uk
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above all from the core subjects.
Progression: • Fine Artist• Exhibition Designer• Illustrator
• Printmaker• Teacher• Art Therapist
Henri Matisse said, “Creativity takes courage” – here at Cirencester College we couldn’t agree more! Passion, resilience, and determination are also critical skills that art students develop in abundance. The study of Fine Art not only provides you with the opportunity to acquire new practical skills whilst strengthening existing ones, but it also encourages independent thinking, self-expression, and communication. This course is designed to stimulate and inspire through a combination of playful experimentation, creative risk taking and artist research, in a quest to generate and develop personal ideas through the creation of practical art and written work. We look forward to welcoming you onto the course and hope that you will enjoy an immersive experience into the exciting, challenging, and fascinating world of art.
* Creative industries earn the UK almost £92bn. The contribution of the UK creative industries - as measured by Gross Value Added (GVA) - rose by 7.6% in 2016, or more than twice as fast as the average 3.5% growth rate, in this measure, across the UK economy. Earnings as a Fine Artist will depend on demand; some artists combine exhibiting and selling work with other part-time or full-time jobs.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Course Specific Entry Requirement: Grade 5 or a MERIT or DISTINCTION at BTEC Level 2 in an Art or Design subject. To help us give the best advice and guidance it is really beneficial if you have photographs of your art/design work with you when you come to any interview or enrolment. If you have not studied a creative visual course at GCSE, entry may also be made via portfolio/interview. Your portfolio should include drawings, photos, things you have made and any other evidence of creative work.
* Language skills are in demand and can be used in almost any career, particularly with businesses that trade internationally. A Confederation of British Industry (CBI) report in July 2016 states that the languages most in demand by businesses are the major EU languages of French, German and Spanish. There is also a national shortage of language teachers.
Progression: • Diplomatic Service• Industrial Buyer• Marketing
• Teacher• Interpreter/Translator
A language A-level opens many doors. The new linear syllabus for AQA is focused on the study of French culture, including social issues, music, cinema and politics. During the second year you will also make an in-depth study of a novel and a film. This is a great opportunity to gain the confidence to speak and write freely in French, on a variety of topical issues, in addition to acquiring transferable research and analytical skills. You will improve your ability to problem solve, to be creative and above all to communicate well, all of which are vital skills for today’s job market.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above all from the core subjects. Grade 6 required in GCSE French.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
A-LEVEL
A-LEVEL
Fine Art
French
2YEARS
A-LEV
EL
2YEARS
A-LEV
EL
Want to see some of our talented students work? See our Vision 2020 Art Exhibition (Page 124)or visit our online gallery at: http://blogs.cirencester.ac.uk/artgallery/
52 www.cirencester.ac.uk
French is my favourite academic subject; I really enjoy just
learning a language and how it works.
CAITLIN EASTHAM (Highworth Warneford)
A-level French, Philosophy, Ethics and Religion,History and Music Performance
53www.cirencester.ac.uk
Unlike GCSE Maths, all Functional Skills Maths questions are set in a real-life context, such as a carpenter’s workshop, a supermarket or a travel agent. Functional Maths is all about using your numeracy skills to solve real life problems, these are skills which employers want their employees to have. Level 2 Functional Skills is equivalent to a grade 4 at GCSE.
In order to study Level 2 Functional Skills, you need to pass Level 1 Functional Skills first. Hence, students who arrive at College with a grade 2 or lower in GCSE Maths generally study Level 1 Functional Skills in their first year and then progress to Level 2 in their second year.
This course seeks to improve your use of language, both in writing and in speaking. There are two exams which can be taken at Level 1 (pre-GCSE) or Level 2 (the equivalent of a grade 3/4 at GCSE), both of which will test your ability to understand something that you have read and to write clearly in a practical context, such as writing a letter or a report. In addition, you will be assessed on how well you speak in a variety of contexts. Exams can be taken at several points during the year, enabling the teacher to tailor the pacing of the course to suit each individual. If you do very well in the January exam, you may be invited to do GCSE in the same year. Everything is tailored to suit you.
Most students progressing into Higher Education or employment, opportunities will require a Level 2 Qualification in Maths.
For students progressing into Higher Education and most employment opportunities will require a Level 2 qualification in English.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
WHAT TO EXPECT?
A-LEVEL
A-LEVEL
Functional Skills:English
Functional Skills:Maths
1YEAR
1YEAR
LEVEL 1 & 2
LEVEL 1 & 2
ROBIN WILSON(Bradon Forest)A-level English Language, Geography and German
Geography is great because teachers make their classes memorable and therefore very enjoyable. I also went on the Sicily trip in Geography it was amazing to see such a beautiful island and Geography in action.
54 www.cirencester.ac.uk
Progression:
Progression:
• Engineering Geologist• Geochemistry• Hydro Geologist
• Environmental Consultant• Drilling Engineer• Minerals Surveyor
• Environmental Consultant• Market Researcher• Landscape Architect
• Planning Surveyor • Tourism Officer• Nature Conservation Officer
Geology brings science and physical geography together to help us understand both past and present physical processes which occur on Planet Earth. Geology is hands on and therefore you will have regular field trips and lab practicals so that you can see the theory in action. This cutting-edge Geology course uses current scientific discoveries to influence and guide your lectures. Your topics will include Plate Tectonics, Volcanoes, Earthquakes and exploration techniques. As Geology covers a range of different subjects, you will learn lots of transferable skills. These skills make Geology a highly sought-after course by universities and employers alike and can lead you to areas such as Hazard Management, Applied Geology, Engineering, Geophysics, Exploration Geology, Oceanography and Marine Biology. Geology is an ideal partner subject to Geography, Environmental Science and all of the ‘core’ sciences.
You will have the opportunity to explore the key aspects of human and physical geography which shape our world. Geography will help you understand the problems facing the world in the 21st Century. Topics include Changing Places, Global Cycles, Global Systems and Changing Landscapes. We also offer students the choice of following a Human Geography or Physical Geography pathway, allowing you to focus on the issues which are most important to you. This exciting course also includes fieldwork, giving students the opportunity to explore the concepts covered in class as well as develop a wide range of skills to take forward into future careers. There is a 20% coursework element to the course, giving students the chance to undertake their own research on a topic of their choice. The International Development enrichment course is popular with those students taking the Human Geography pathway.
* Geology graduates in employment in the UK are doing various jobs. Three of the top four include geologists, meteorologists, environment professionals and civil engineers. A Geologist can earn on average from £20,000 to £78,000 depending on experience.
* An Environmental Consultant earns on average £22,000 to £60,000. More than 60% of geography graduates are in employment in the UK six months after graduation.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above all from the core subjects.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above all from the core subjects.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
WHAT TO EXPECT?
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Course Specific Entry Requirement: GCSE Grade 4 in Maths.
Course Specific Entry Requirement: GCSE Grade 4 in Maths.
A-LEVEL
A-LEVEL
Geology
Geography
2YEARS
A-LEV
EL
2YEARS
A-LEV
EL
55www.cirencester.ac.uk
Progression:
• Interpreter• Industrial Buyer• Lawyer
• Marketing • Teacher• Diplomatic Service
A language A-level opens many doors. The syllabus is focused on the study of German culture, including social issues, youth culture, art, history and politics. During the course you will also carry out an in-depth study of a play and a film. This is a great opportunity to gain the confidence to speak and write freely in German on a variety of topical issues, in addition to acquiring transferable research and analytical skills. You will improve your ability to problem solve, to be creative and above all to communicate well, all of which are vital skills for today’s job market.
* Language skills are in demand and can be used in almost any career, particularly with businesses that trade internationally. A Confederation of British Industry (CBI) report in July 2016 states that the languages most in demand by businesses are the major EU languages of French, German and Spanish. There is also a national shortage of language teachers.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above all from the core subjects.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Course Specific Entry Requirement: GCSE Grade 6 in German.
Progression: • Graphic Designer• Animator• Illustrator• Architect
• Interior Designer• Game Designer• Web Designer
Graphic Communication is everywhere we look, it is on the books we read, the clothes we wear and the food we eat. There is a reason we play that video game or watch that TV show. These reasons come from visual language and that is what we are here to both create and understand. This course will take you through the process of design and how to develop your own creative outcomes.
* Creative industries earn the UK almost £92bn. The UK is looking at a 2% increase in future employment of graphic designers by 2023. On average a graphic designer can earn £30,160 a year.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above all from the core subjects.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Course Specific Entry Requirement: Grade 4 or a MERIT or DISTINCTION at BTEC Level 2 in an Art or Design subject. Entry may also be made via portfolio/interview.
A-LEVEL
A-LEVEL
GraphicCommunication
German
2YEARS
A-LEV
EL
2YEARS
A-LEV
EL
Want to see some of our talented students work? See our Vision 2020 Art Exhibition (Page 124)or visit our online gallery at: http://blogs.cirencester.ac.uk/artgallery/
56 www.cirencester.ac.uk
• Nursing• Midwifery
• Mental Health• Therapist
Brand new for 2021, the T-level course in Health and Science (Health) is a Level 3 technical qualification that will provide you with the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed to progress into skilled employment, higher level technical training or study in the Health and Science sector. The core knowledge and understanding will cover areas such as: working within the Health and Science sector, health, good scientific and clinical practice and core science concepts. The breadth of content will ensure learners can apply their skills for different purposes and in different roles. You will have the opportunity to specialise in content which aligns with industry specific skills or directly relevant content for your chosen occupation such as dental nursing or supporting healthcare. You will have an “Industry Placement” which gives you valuable work experience and also has a work related project attached to it.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above including 3 from the core subjects.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
T-LEVELSHealth & Science: Health 2
YEARST-LEV
EL
NEWCOURSE
NEW COURSEProgression:
Looking for a career in optical care services, pharmacy services, assisting with healthcare science, dental technical services, or prosthetic and orthotic technical services? Our new for 2021 T-level course in Health and Science (Healthcare Science) is a course with core knowledge and understanding that will cover areas such as: working within the Health and Science sector, health, good scientific and clinical practice and core science concepts. The breadth of content will ensure learners can apply their skills for different purposes and in different roles. T-Levels provide you with the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed to progress into skilled employment or higher-level technical training or study in the Health and Science sector. You will be able to specialise in your own area of interest. Your Industry Placement will give you valuable work experience and also has a work-related project attached to it.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including 3 from the core subjects.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
• Laboratory Scientist• Food Science• Metrology Science
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
T-LEVELSHealth & Science:Healthcare Science 2
YEARS
T-LEVEL
NEWCOURSE
NEW COURSEProgression:
57www.cirencester.ac.uk
Careers in Health, Health Care Science and Social Care
* The health and social care sector is a large and important sector of the UK economy. It is the largest sector for employment and has grown over recent years - the NHS is now the fifth largest employer in the world. By maintaining and improving the health of the population, the sector also contributes to wider UK economy by supporting people to remain economically active. Nurses can earn between £22,000 and
£48,000 per year.
Progression: • Health Care• Care Industry• Apprenticeship
If you are interested in caring for people as a career, then Health and Social Care could be for you. You will find out about all the aspects of healthcare that enable you to progress to the Level 3 qualification or to an apprenticeship with a healthcare provider such as the NHS. Find out about the food we should eat and the lifestyles we should lead to be healthy, as well as diseases that cause people to be unhealthy, and how these are treated. Learn how to care for poorly, very young or elderly people; what their rights are, and about all the organisations and careers that are open to healthcare workers. There are two exams, lots of assignments and a work placement.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 3 GCSEs at Grade 3 or above.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Health and Social Care 1
YEAR
EXT CERT
VOCATIONALLEVEL 2
This new T-Level is aimed at those wishing to pursue a career in the areas of laboratory sciences, animal sciences, food sciences or metrology sciences. You’ll have a full-time programme of study as well as substantial Industry Placements to prepare you for work or Higher Education. The course is made up of different sections. The first is the “Core”. This will give you a baseline understanding of the industry. It covers a range of areas, giving you a vital underpinning knowledge and understanding of concepts and the skills that you’ll need in this sector. “Specialism” is the second section and this covers content which aligns with industry specific skills or directly relevant content for your chosen occupation. The third section of the course is an “Industry Placement” which gives you valuable work experience and also has a work-related project attached to it. In addition, there are a host of other elements such as preparation for work, T-level specific tutoring and careers advice and guidance to make a relevant and substantial study programme.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including 3 from the core subjects.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
• Laboratory Scientist• Food Science• Metrology Science
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
T-LEVELSHealth & Science:Science 2
YEARST-LEV
EL
NEWCOURSE
NEW COURSEProgression:
58 www.cirencester.ac.uk
Progression:
The History A-level course has three distinct pathways that aim to provide you with a strong understanding of key themes which have influenced the course of history from the 11th to the 20th centuries. You can choose the “Conquest, Control and Resistance” pathway, which focuses on three turbulent periods in England’s history: the Crusades, the Norman Conquest and Rebellion under the Tudors. Alternatively you can choose “Revolution and Reform” which looks at the important events of the English Civil Wars; the Russian Revolutions and the growth of Protest and Democracy in Britain. The third pathway is “Dictatorship and Democracy” which examines the turbulent years of the 19th and 20th centuries. This final pathway focuses upon the impact of Fascism in both Germany and Italy during the early 20th Century, and then returns to the theme of growing democracy in Germany after the fall of Nazism, and also during the 19th and 20th Century periods in Britain.
* History is a course that helps students hone their analytical and critical thinking skills. This ideally suits students to go to university courses in a wide range of subjects or go into the workplace. Three of the top five jobs held by history graduates employed in the UK after six months of graduation are marketing associate professional, teaching assistant and human resources and industrial relations officer.
• Historian• Conservation Officer• Historic Buildings Inspector• Museum Curator
• Archaeologist• Heritage Manager• Law
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above all from the core subjects.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
Course Specific Entry Requirement: If students have taken GCSE History, they have to have achieved a Grade 4 or above to take A-level History.
A-LEVELHistory 2YEARS
A-LEV
EL
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Progression: • IT Support Technician• IT Operating Technician• IT Project
The ICT Extended Certificate will involve using spreadsheets to analyse and interpret data, and either learning to build a website using Dreamweaver or learning about how computers are built.
Expected progression routes from this course are to a Level 3 course in either Business or ICT, to employment or to an Apprenticeship.
Careers in IT
* 15,000 jobs are required in the Information Technology Sector by 2022 in Gloucestershire, Swindon and Wiltshire. An IT Support Technician can earn from £16,000 to £35,000 per year. Computer/Games Developers expect to earn a starting salary of £19,000, but with experience this
rises up to as much as £70,000. A Web Developer can earn on average up to £50,000 per annum.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 3 GCSEs at Grade 3 or above.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
ICT 1YEAR
CERT
VOCATIONALLEVEL 2
Progression:
59www.cirencester.ac.uk
FUNKE DEHINBO(Lydiard Park)IT Level 3 and Business A-level
IT is fun as we cover so many different topics to choose and study from!
I wish to go to University and complete a degree in Computer Science and then I want to go into Data Science / Analytics.
Land & Wildlife Countryside
Conservation
Journalism
60 www.cirencester.ac.uk
• Copywriter• Website Content Manager• Broadcast Journalist
• Journalist• Editor• Writer
The news industry has changed rapidly over recent years with advances in online technology allowing the distribution of news to become instant and global. You will learn about journalism for magazines, newspapers and blogs.
* Almost a fifth of journalism graduates in employment in the UK six months after graduation are working as journalists, newspaper and periodical editors. A newspaper or magazine editor’s average earnings range from £30,000 to £80,000. A journalist can earn from £15,000 to £40,000 a year.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including 3 from the core subjects.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Progression:
Progression:
• Forester / Tree Surgeon• Environmental
• Landscaping• Estate Worker
This is ideal if you are interested in working outdoors in the wildlife or countryside sectors and want to gain the skills required for employment. This could include in parks, nature reserves, farms, gardening or any other of the huge range of local industries. We love to get out into the countryside to teach our lessons, so if you like a mixture of classroom and outdoor learning, this could be the course for you! This one-year Level 2 Technical Certificate also allows for progression on to our Level 3 Land & Wildlife Extended Diploma.
* Agriculture is a massive industry in the UK; 57% of land in the UK is used for it! There are 280,000 farms in the UK, which all help to manage the British countryside helping to bring in over £21 billion in tourism each year.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 3 GCSEs at Grade or above.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Land & Wildlife Countryside
Conservation1YEAR
TEC CERT
VOCATIONALLEVEL 2
1YEAR
TEC CERT
VOCATIONALLEVEL 3Journalism
61www.cirencester.ac.uk
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including 3 from the core subjects.
Progression: • Forester/Tree Surgeon• Environmental Education • Countryside Ranger
• Reserve Warden• Estate Worker• Ecologist
This course is aimed at those who wish to pursue a career in the land, wildlife and environmental sectors. The content is delivered using a mix of classroom sessions and practical activities. The course works with a range of local organisations such as FWAG and the Wildlife Trusts to deliver practical sessions at local nature reserves. Students are assessed through a variety of written and practical methods. A range of topics are explored including woodland and river management, wildlife survey techniques and rural tourism and recreation. The course will provide valuable preparation for employment or pave the way to Higher Education. Progression is also available via our Foundation Degree routes.
* The South West is the biggest and most rural of all English regions. Nearly 120,000 people work in its land-based sector. Almost half the jobs are concentrated in agricultural livestock, followed by landscaping, agricultural crops and production horticulture. Farm Managers average earnings range from £20,000 to £50,000.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
2YEARS
EXT D
IP
VOCATIONALLEVEL 3
Land & Wildlife Countryside
Conservation
Progression:
Law provides a means to recognise rights and duties, solve problems and resolve disputes without resorting to violence. The study of law helps develop your analytical ability and critical thinking. It also develops problem-solving skills through the application of legal rules. You will study a range of differing areas of substantive law, including Criminal, Tort and Contract. The subject is popular, relevant and exciting for all students. You will participate in active debates fuelled by the media’s fascination with legal cases, undertake mock trials and learn a breadth and depth of skills needed for further study and employment.
* Within 6 months of graduating, a third of law graduates are already working in the legal sector while another third continue with higher study. In 2017, there were 175,160 qualified solicitors, of which, 87,150 (49.8 %) are men and 88,010 (50.2%) are women. Solicitors earn on average £25,000 to £100,000, a barrister can earn up to £250,000 a year.
• Barrister• Company Secretary• Legal Executive
• Paralegal• Solicitor• Accountant
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above all from the core subjects.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Course Specific Entry Requirement: Including Maths and English.
A-LEVELLaw 2YEARS
A-LEV
EL
62 www.cirencester.ac.uk
Progression:
Course Specific Entry Requirement: Grade 7 in GCSE Maths is strongly recommended. Students with a Grade 6 may still be able to do the course, depending on a range of other factors such as the Grades achieved in all other GCSE subjects and their long term career plan. Advice and guidance will be given at enrolment for students who achieve a grade 6 and still want to take A-level Maths.
This course gives you an insight into some of the diverse topics that can be studied in Mathematics. Pure Maths concepts such as Algebra, Trigonometry, Number Sequences and Calculus will comprise 67% of the course. Statistics and Mechanics techniques will make up the remaining 33% . While Maths is an intellectually stimulating subject in its own right, which develops your problem solving skills, it is also a useful aid to other courses with mathematical content, such as the Sciences, Computer Science and Economics.
• Data Analyst• Investment Analyst• Software Engineer
• Statistician• Accountant • Financial Manager
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above all from the core subjects.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
A-LEVELMathematics 2YEARS
A-LEV
EL
L3 Core Maths (Statistical Techniques) is taught over one year (AS-level equivalent), and would provide excellent mathematical support to students on AL Psychology, Biology and Geography courses. The Core Maths course is designed around “real-world” relevant maths that can be used to supplement your other subjects, or in your lives beyond education. There is little algebra, but a large emphasis on data handling. It takes the work that you have learned at GCSE, and builds on it to increase the number of tools available to fully interpret information. Topics covered include Maths for Personal Finance, Fermi Estimation, Critical Analysis and the Normal Distribution.
• Psychologist • Teaching • Apprenticeship
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above all from the core subjects.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
* People with maths and science skills are in demand and on average have higher earnings. The most popular sector for Maths graduates to work in is finance, with 41% of recently employed maths graduates working in the field. People who did maths A-level also earn around 10%
more over their lifetime than those who did not. Nationally there is a shortage of people who can teach Maths.
Course Specific Entry Requirement: Grade 5 in GCSE Maths.
Core Maths:Statistical Techniques
NEW COURSEProgression:
LEVEL 3 1YEAR
LEVEL 3
63www.cirencester.ac.uk
JONAH MCCAFFREY(SGS College Filton)
A-levels Physics, Chemistry and Maths
While I find all concepts in Maths
interesting, one of the most valuable benefits is
the problem-solving skills I have gained along the way. These
skills will be invaluable in a variety of subjects well into the future.
64 www.cirencester.ac.uk
GCSE
GCSE
Progression:
If you really enjoy studying maths and generally attain high scores in your class tests and mock exams, then this could be the course for you. By studying Further Maths as well as Maths, you will learn about some exciting Pure Maths concepts such as Complex Numbers and Matrices. You will also extend your understanding of Statistics and Mechanics by learning about Hypothesis Testing and Collisions respectively. A qualification in Further Mathematics will give you a significant advantage when applying to Maths, Physics or Engineering courses at some of the most prestigious universities in the country. You will study the whole of the A-level Maths content in year 1 and then the additional Further Maths content in year 2. If you decided that you only wanted to study an AS-level in Further Maths by the time you finished year 1, that would be fine so long as your overall programme of study was large enough. As a result, we insist that if you are going to enrol onto the Maths & Further Maths option, you must enrol onto two other full A-level subjects as well.
• Data Analyst• Investment Analyst• Software Engineer
• Statistician• Accountant • Financial Manager
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above all from the core subjects.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
WHAT TO EXPECT?
WHAT TO EXPECT?
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
* People with maths and science skills are in demand and on average have higher earnings. The most popular sector for Maths graduates to work in is finance, with 41% of recently employed maths graduates working in the field. People who did maths A-level also earn around 10% more over their lifetime than those who did not. Nationally there is a shortage of people who can teach Maths. Further Maths helps students to learn valuable skills, which will give them an advantage when having to approach science subjects at the degree level.
It is a government requirement that any student who attained a grade 3 in GCSE Maths at school must study GCSE Maths until they attain at least a grade 4, which is equivalent to the old Grade C.
GCSE Maths Higher is for students who are targeting a grade 5 or higher. The entry requirement is a grade 4 in Maths, but students are also accepted onto the course if they are entering UK mainstream education from either home educated backgrounds, foreign schools or Steiner schools, if the results of an initial assessment indicate that this level of maths is appropriate for them. The main reasons that students take this course are either to meet university entry requirements, to supplement BTEC qualifications, or to enable progression onto A-level courses requiring GCSE Maths at grade 5 or above.
Attaining a grade 5 or higher in GCSE Maths can widen your options when applying to study subjects which require some mathematical or statistical skills at University.
GCSE Mathematics is essential for many jobs and careers. It is also a requirement for many higher education courses.
Foundation
Higher
Progression:
Progression:
Course Specific Entry Requirement: Minimum of Grade 7 in GCSE Maths.
1YEAR
GCSE
1YEAR
GCSE
2YEARS
A-LEV
EL1YEAR
AS-LEV
EL
Mathematics & Further Mathematics
A-LEVELAS-LEVEL
Mathematics GCSE: Foundation & Higher
65www.cirencester.ac.uk
Media (Digital)
• Layout Artist• Assistant Animator• Production Runner
• Freelance Crew• Broadcast Journalist• Editor
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
WHAT TO EXPECT?The media industry is in an age of rapid growth, with global communication networks bringing the digital age to every home. You will use a variety of digital art-working programmes such as Adobe Premiere, After Effects and Photoshop alongside developing your moving image creativity skills as both a cinematographer and as a sound and video producer and editor. This is a mixed medium course where you will create live-action video, animation and graphic design products exploring the art of visual storytelling and marketing. You will also study the media industry; exploring the production roles open to you and gaining an insight into how to start a career in the media sectors. This course is the equivalent of 1.5 conventional A-Levels and can be taken alongside 2 further A-Level or equivalent subjects. This course has two externally examined papers alongside its centre assessed units.
* A Digital Marketing Officer can earn £20,000 to £50,000 per year. Over 60% of people employed in the creative sector have a degree level qualification. The creative industries are becoming more important in local economies, with 47 Creative Clusters across the UK.
At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including 3 from the core subjects.Course Specific Entry Requirement: No further requirements. However, it will be beneficial if you have studied an art / media related subject previously. You will need to be creative, imaginative, be able to solve problems and work in an organised and collaborative way on this course.
Progression:
2YEARS
DIPLO
MA
VOCATIONALLEVEL 3
66 www.cirencester.ac.uk
Progression:
Progression: *Over 2.8 million people are employed in the creative industries, which has grown by nearly 14% since 2011. Over 60% of these have a degree level qualification.
This Media Production course provides an engaging and practical approach to studying film, television and animation. The course is divided into a number of projects that lead to a final major project at the end of each academic year. This is a 100% course work assessed subject - there are no written exams. Although largely practical, developing skills such as camera, lighting, sound recording and post-production supporting skills are also developed such as team-building, communication, and presentation. There are also substantial written elements that have to be covered in each unit including the need to keep a detailed ongoing reflective journal. This course will allow you to progress onto HE, an apprenticeship or gain employment in a range of media related careers.
Film, television, radio, the press, advertising and the internet are the media through which ideas, attitudes and information are communicated. Media Studies explores how these channels work and aims to help you understand, criticise and enjoy media products with an emphasis on theoretical study with a practical project.
* Over 60% of people employed in the creative sector have a degree level qualification. The creative industries are becoming more important in local economies, with 47 Creative Clusters across the UK. A video editor can earn £18,000 to £45,000 on average.
• Multimedia Specialist• Broadcast Journalist• PR Officer
• Television Producer• Editor• Magazine Researcher
• Video Editor• Journalist• Radio Producer
• Feature Film Producer• Television Producer• Cinematographer
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including 3 from the core subjects.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above all from the core subjects.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
WHAT TO EXPECT?
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
2YEARS
EXT D
IP
VOCATIONALLEVEL 3
Media (Production)
A-LEVELMedia Studies 2YEARS
A-LEV
EL
67www.cirencester.ac.uk
Progression:
Progression:
• Musician• Producer• Promoter
• Manager• Marketer• Agent
• Reserves• Military
This course is aimed at singers, guitarists, drummers and bass players and focuses on pop, rock and jazz, music performance and the music industry. The course will suit those of you that have several years’ experience in performing a range of musical styles with the aim of improving both your practical ability and your general knowledge of music. The course will involve performance as part of a live band and as a soloist and the study of music theory and harmony, ear training, rhythm studies and sight reading.
This course will stimulate you to explore the work of a range of musical styles and generate your own ideas through practical and written work. You will be introduced to a broad variety of materials and techniques and encouraged to experiment with them to develop ideas and produce final pieces and performances.
This is an active and engaging one-year course which provides a firm foundation for students interested in pursuing a career in the Military (Army, Navy and Air Force). The course will get you into the mindset and physically prepare you for a career in the military. The focus is on fitness, discipline, employment skills, leadership and communication. Within the course you will take part in outdoor activities, Physical Training sessions and task-based scenarios that affect the public sector. The Royal Wessex Yeomanry in Cirencester, an armoured reserve regiment who operate Challenger 2 main battle tanks, support this course and will offer every student who successfully completes the Military Preparation Course at Cirencester College, an interview for reserve employment. In addition, Cirencester College and The Royal Wessex Yeomanry can prepare and advise students on application for full-time regular service.
* Jobs in the performing arts sector are increasing as more people enjoy more leisure time. In 2016, 66,000 people were employed in performing arts, a rise of 7,000 from 2013. This is set to expand going forward after the Bazlagette review concluded in 2017 that the creative industries could be worth £128.4billion to the UK economy by 2025 and help to create up to one million jobs by 2030.
* For the year 2020 the Government have set strict recruitment targets for all Military services. Currently none of the military wings are meeting these targets, meaning that jobs are plentiful and, as long as you can meet the compulsory medical, fitness and basic requirements for the job, a career in one of these services should be available to you.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including 3 from the core subjects.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 3 GCSEs at Grade 3 or above.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
WHAT TO EXPECT?
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Course Specific Entry Requirement: A good level of musicianship. We access your musical skills and experience by way of audition.
Military Preparation (MPC) Uniformed Public Services
VOCATIONALLEVEL2 1
YEARD
IPLOM
A
2YEARS
EXT CERT
VOCATIONALLEVEL 3
Music Performance
68 www.cirencester.ac.uk
Music Technology
• Musician• Producer• Sound Engineer
• Manager• Marketer• Venue Manager
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
WHAT TO EXPECT?Develop your music technology and production skills using industry standard equipment, work on projects based on realistic workplace situations, learn to sequence, record, produce and compose with technology.
Progression:
At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including 3 from the core subjects.
Over 60% of people employed in the creative sector have a degree level qualification. The creative industries are becoming more important in local economies, with 47 Creative Clusters across the UK.
Course Specific Entry Requirement: Playing an instrument or singing will help your studies.
2YEARS
EXT CERT
VOCATIONALLEVEL 3
69www.cirencester.ac.uk
Performing Arts
• Actor• Musical theatre performer• Dancer• Singer
• Director• Choreographer• Teacher• Playwright
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
WHAT TO EXPECT?The Performing Arts course has a proven track record of getting young people into Drama School. On this course you will study fundamental acting techniques for the industry, as well as singing and vocal technique and dance and movement skills. Year 1 is focused on developing your core skills in acting, devising, ensemble performance, singing and dance. In Year 2, you will specialise in a chosen career pathway: acting or musical theatre, with bespoke units for each pathway. Year 2 will conclude with a large musical theatre performance or play and an individual specialist performance project. Alongside course content, you will develop employability skills for the Performing Arts industry, including audition technique, CV and application writing and LAMDA performance exams.
You will also have the opportunity to join the Sundial Theatre Company, the performance enrichment company, which does multiple performance projects throughout the year, including National Theatre Connections.
Progression:
* Most actors are self- employed and are paid a fee for each contract or performance. A performer in theatre may earn around £420 a week. Jobs in the performing arts sector are increasing as more people enjoy more leisure time. In 2016, 66,000 people were employed in performing arts.
At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including 3 from the core subjects.
2YEARS
DIPLO
MA
VOCATIONALLEVEL 3
70 www.cirencester.ac.uk
A-LEVEL
Philosophy, Ethics & Religion
• Teacher• Lawyer• Charity Worker
• Counsellor• Archivist• Newspaper Journalist
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
WHAT TO EXPECT?Western philosophy includes discussions on the arguments for and against the existence of God, religious experience, the nature of the mind and body and what implications this has for a possible life after death. In Ethics, you will compare and contrast different ethical theories and apply them to ethical dilemmas such as euthanasia, business and sex. You will also study the philosophy of ethical language and the role of the conscience in moral decision making. You will Explore Buddhism which is considered by many to be an eastern philosophy rather than a religion. You will look at teachings on the nature of reality and human life, wisdom, morality and meditation. There is an option to study developments within Christianity instead of Buddhism. This pathway involves the study of the ways in which Christianity has responded to various challenges including scientific advances, secularism, religious pluralism and sex and gender issues.
Progression:
* Religious studies and philosophy teaches skills such as logical thought and communication skills. Many people who study philosophy go on to work in careers in law, education, politics or business. It’s an excellent course to do prior to doing a Post Graduate Diploma in Law (PGDL).
At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above all from the core subjects.
2YEARS
A-LEV
EL
71www.cirencester.ac.uk
Progression:
Progression:
This exciting hands-on course offers you the knowledge and skills to become highly inventive in the creation of eye catching, thought provoking imagery. The course follows both traditional and digital techniques with emphasis upon the research and study of historical and contemporary photographers.
Through this course you will gain experience of what real physicists do. You will consider the weird and wonderful quantum nature of light and matter, learn about electromagnetism, delve into the depths of particle accelerators and explore the natural rhythms of orbital systems in the clockwork universe, bringing mathematical skills together with physical principles to predict and model the future.
* Over 2.8 million people are employed in the creative industries, which has grown by nearly 14% since 2011. One in 11 jobs now fall into the creative economy!
* People with maths and science skills are in demand and on average have higher earnings. The starting salaries for science sector jobs can be as much as £32,000, putting them in the top 20% of starting salaries. People who did Maths A-level earn around 10% more over their lifetime than those who did not. Wages for a physicist can range from £14,000 to £70,000 depending on experience.
• Advertising Art Director• Press Photographer• Magazine Features Editor
• Graphic Designer• Photographer• Stylist
• Physicist • Nano-technologist• Geophysicist
• Investment Analyst• Nuclear Engineer• Meteorologist
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above all from the core subjects.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above all from the core subjects.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
WHAT TO EXPECT?
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Course Specific Entry Requirement: Including Maths and English.
Course Specific Entry Requirement: Grade 6 in Physics OR 6 in both Core AND Additional Science. Grade 6 in Maths. We strongly recommend that you take Maths alongside Physics.
A-LEVEL
A-LEVEL
Photography
Physics
2YEARS
A-LEV
EL
2YEARS
A-LEV
EL
72 www.cirencester.ac.uk
I really love studying physics because it helps
you develop a lot of problem solving skills
and encourages you to look at a problem in different ways!
The teachers in the physics department are very supportive and
offer extra support sessions.
ISABELLE WRIGHT(St Joseph’s Catholic College)
A-levels Physics, Chemistry and Maths (For Further Maths)
73www.cirencester.ac.uk
Progression:
In this rapidly changing world, politics has become more important than ever. If you are interested in current affairs, ideas, and how the country is run, then this is the course for you. You will explore the British political system and the parties, people and groups that impact on society. The course also features global politics, where you will study big international organisations and the important themes surrounding human rights, poverty, the environment and war.
* Nearly two-thirds of Politics students are in full-time employment six months after they graduate and the average starting salary for a Politics graduate is £23,000. This includes jobs in a broad range of fields ranging from moving into the law profession, teaching and marketing.
• Charity Officer• Public Affairs Consultant• Government Social Research Officer
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above all from the core subjects.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
* There is a fairly constant demand for graduates in teaching and there is a shortage of teachers in certain subject areas, such as science and mathematics. There are over 2.9 million people working in education in the UK. Starting salary for a teacher is £22,000 to £23,000.
Progression:
• Primary School Teacher• Secondary School Teacher• Early Years Teacher
• Teaching Assistant• Support Worker• Activities Instructor
This exciting 1 year qualification is for any aspiring young teacher.
The qualification with give you the opportunity to dip your toe into teaching whilst still studying 3 A-levels or equivalent. You will gain an understanding of life in a classroom from the other side.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above all from the core subjects.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
A-LEVELPolitics 2YEARS
A-LEV
EL
Pre-Teaching 1YEAR
EPQAWARD
74 www.cirencester.ac.uk
A-LEVEL
Psychology
• Psychologists• Counsellors• Support Workers
• Social Work• Lawyers• Police
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
WHAT TO EXPECT?Psychology involves delving into the forces that drive and determine human behaviour. You will study some of the most important and interesting research from around the world. In your first year, you will look at a range of different areas helping to explain behaviour and applying what you have learned to real life situations; for example, how eyewitness testimony can be affected by the wording in a question and factors that influence whether someone helps in an emergency situation. In the second year, you will have the opportunity to study issues in mental health such as psychological disorders, criminal psychology and one other elective module, either sport, child or environmental psychology. Through studying Psychology, you will learn important transferable skills such as analysis and evaluation and have access to a range of different trips and work experience, which will require you to apply your knowledge and develop your skills further.
Progression:
At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above all from the core subjects. Course Specific Entry Requirement: Grade 5 in Maths.
2YEAR
A-LEV
EL
75www.cirencester.ac.uk
Progression: • Armed Forces• Outdoor Activity Centres
• Emergency Services
• Psychologists• Counsellors• Support Workers
• Social Work• Lawyers• Police
This course is designed to meet the needs of students wishing to pursue a career in the uniformed public services (the Armed Forces, Police, Fire and Rescue, Ambulance, Prisons, HM Revenue and Customs, Border Agency and the Maritime and Coastguard Agency). While the course is tailored to assist entry to a career in one of the public services, it is also a qualification that can take you on to Higher Education. The skills involved are highly transferable and essential in a wide variety of career settings.
This course will journey through the fundamentals of the applied psychology sector; focusing on contemporary theories, knowledge, understanding skills and attributes required to succeed in the sector. In the first year, you will gain an understanding of a range of psychological concepts and how they apply to contemporary society, as well as completing your own research project into a psychological issue. In the second year, you are able to specialise in health psychology; lifestyle choices, unhealthy behaviours and behavioural change. You will also study psychopathology (mental health). This course will provide you with a broad basis of study for the applied psychology sector, as well as developing the necessary skills to be successful in your chosen career path.
* There is a wide range of career routes within this sector for example, the army has around 140 different types of jobs. Although everyone is a soldier first, it also has chefs, pilots, engineers, musicians, lawyers, medics, dog handlers, clerks, mechanics and many more occupations. An Officer in the Forces can earn upwards of £25,000, a Police Officer will earn from £20,000 to £60,000, a Prison Officer can earn on average £20,750 to £38,000.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including 3 from the core subjects.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including 3 from the core subjects.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
WHAT TO EXPECT?
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Careers in PsychologyIn 2019, there were approximately 38,000 psychologists in employment in the United Kingdom, this figure includes both employed and
self-employed psychologists. The NHS being the largest employer of psychologists in the UK. Outside the NHS psychologists are also employed by Local Education Authorities, the Prison Service and the Civil Service. There is predicted to be a 5% rise in required clinical
psychologists by 2023. The average wage for a psychologist is £31,000 to £98,500.
Psychology (Applied Psychology)
VOCATIONALLEVEL 3 2
YEARSEX
T CERT
1YEAR
CERT
2YEARS
EXT D
IP
VOCATIONALLEVEL 3
Public Services(Uniformed)
76 www.cirencester.ac.uk
Resort Representative
• Travel Agent• Resort Representative• Activity Leader
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
WHAT TO EXPECT?The Award for Resort Representatives provides the skills, knowledge and understanding required to carry out the role of Resort Representative. It is ideal for those seeking employment in the industry without formal qualifications. This is a short course aimed at Level 3 students which can be taken alongside Level 3 programmes. Previous students have been successful in applying for roles as Resort Representatives and worked in a number of destinations throughout Europe. This underlines how this qualification meets the needs of the organisations in the industry for well-trained staff.
This course is usually taken alongside the Travel and Tourism qualification.
Progression:
At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including 3 from the core subjects.
Britain will have a tourism industry worth over £257 billion by 2025 – just under 10% of UK GDP and supporting almost 3.8 million jobs, which is around 11% of the total UK number (source Visit Britain).
1YEAR
AWA
RD
PUBLIC SERVICES(Uniformed)Student visit toRoyal Marines’ training camp
Image:
VOCATIONALLEVEL 3
77www.cirencester.ac.uk
Progression:
Progression:
Do you ever wonder why inequality continues to exist in the world? Have you considered how gender, religion, and ethnic background create or limit opportunities in your life? How is social media changing our lives? What fuels our apparent fixation with celebrity? Is it just gossip in a modern form? How does the media influence our behaviour & how is it changing wider society? What factors influence who we are? How does education, family, religion & friends influence the people we become? Do we control society or does society control us? What happens when society breaks down? We offer students the choice of following either a Crime and Deviance pathway or a World Sociology (International Development) pathway, enabling them to tailor the course to match their interests.Sociology is not just about Britain, it also deals with global issues like the environment, politics, migration and ‘globalization’ itself. How do these changes affect people at every level of their life? These are all vital questions. Students have found that sociology makes them look at the world in new ways and help them better understand the world in the 21st Century.
A language A-level opens many doors. The new linear syllabus for AQA is focused on the study of Spanish culture, including social issues, regional identity, music, art and politics. You will also do an in-depth study of a film (Year 1) and a play (Year 2) and carry out an independent research project. This is a great opportunity to gain the confidence to speak and write in Spanish on a variety of topical issues, in addition to acquiring transferable research and analytical skills. You will develop techniques for translation, summarising and presentation. There will be opportunity to learn how to write analytical critical essays on film and literature. You will improve your ability to work independently and in groups, discuss topics and communicate effectively, all of which are vital skills for today’s job market and university.
* A study of the world’s leaders has found that almost half have a social science degree. Many sociologists go into the education, legal or social care professions. Social workers can earn on average £24,000 to £40,000 a year.
* Language skills are in demand and can be used in almost any career, particularly with businesses that trade internationally. A Confederation of British Industry (CBI) report in July 2016 states that the languages most in demand by businesses are the major EU languages of French, German and Spanish. There is also a national shortage of language teachers.
• Social Worker• Youth Worker• International Development
• Corporate Social Responsibility• Police• Community Worker
• Business • International Organisations • Public Relations
• Interpreter • Diplomatic Service
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above all from the core subjects.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above all from the core subjects.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
WHAT TO EXPECT?
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Course Specific Entry Requirement: Grade 6 in Spanish.
A-LEVEL
A-LEVEL
Sociology
Spanish
2YEARS
A-LEV
EL
2YEARS
A-LEV
EL
78 www.cirencester.ac.uk
Spanish is personally my creative
outlet. The subject is highly expansive,
ranging from politics to history to novels and
movies, you learn about the culture and then can even
experience it when your Spanish teacher puts on an amazing flamenco
performance.
MOLLY SCRASE-KINGS(Faringdon)
A-levels Biology, Chemistry, Maths and Spanish
79www.cirencester.ac.uk
MASON WIRTH(Thomas Keble)Level 3 Sports
There are many subjects we study ranging from leadership to anatomy.
There is a lot to learn but you’ll be surprised how quickly you learn it with the support of the great teachers! I also like that there is a lot of practical based lessons, this makes it more fun and interactive so the students can gain a wider understanding.
80 www.cirencester.ac.uk
Progression:
Progression:
• Leisure Manager • Gym Instructor • Sports Coach
• Nutritionist • Physiotherapist • Personal Trainer
The Sports and Exercise Science course explores the diverse scientific disciplines in the study of sport from core subjects such as Anatomy, Physiology and Psychology through to Biomechanics and Pathology of injury rehabilitation. This course is enhanced by current research of staff who regularly collaborate with professionals in the industry and high level athletes to advance knowledge under module disciplines. Students will be expected to be confident in all science disciplines alongside having the ability to convey this information in a variety of formats to a range of audiences. The course would support the furtherance of study in the therapies sector such as but not exclusive to Sports Therapy; Nutritional Therapy or Sports Rehabilitation; it also supports further study of Sports Science at HE.
This course covers a wide variety of aspects related to the Sport, Exercise and Health industry. Modules studied include: Anatomy & Physiology, Fitness Testing & Training, Planning & Leading Sports Events, Sport Nutrition, Injury in Sport, Lifestyle & the Sports Performer and Practical Sports.
*Working in the sport and leisure sector can be tough – expect long hours. This is also an area with a lot of options, whether you work with young people or competitive sports teams. With experience, good qualifications and a positive attitude to customers and clients, a well qualified instructor can expect to earn up to £21,000 increasing to up to around £40,000 at management level. An experienced sports coach can earn up to £30,000 to £35,000 per annum.
*Working in the sport and leisure sector can be tough – expect long hours. With experience, good qualifications and a positive attitude to customers and clients, a well-qualified instructor can expect to earn up to £21,000 increasing to up to around £40,000 at management level.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including 3 from the core subjects.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 3 GCSEs at Grade 3.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
WHAT TO EXPECT?
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Sport 1YEAR
DIPLO
MA
VOCATIONALLEVEL 2
Sport & Exercise Science
VOCATIONALLEVEL 3 2
YEARS
EXT CERT
2YEARS
DIPLO
MA
Course Specific Entry Requirement: Require Biology or Science at GCSE Grade 4/5.
81www.cirencester.ac.uk
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Progression:
The Sport and Physical Activity course has a wide ranging set of modules that allow students to explore how to teach and the coaching styles needed for wide range of sporting and physical activity settings; from elite level sport to educating primary school children in physical movement, to those completely disengaged in physical activity and sport. We explore public policy alongside the psychology and physiology of engaging and developing this vast range of abilities. You will be expected to plan, deliver and execute a range of coaching and activity sessions to further develop your skills. It is suited to those looking at a career in Sports Development teaching or facilitating sports and physical activity participation.
* Working in the sport and leisure sector can be tough – expect long hours. Sport Scientists focus on working with other specialists to improve the health and performance with others, in addition to supporting research. Physiotherapists can earn on average £22,000 to £41,000 a year.
• Leisure Manager• Gym Instructor• Sports Coach
• Sports Therapy• Nutritional Therapy• Sports Rehabilitation
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including 3 from the core subjects.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
* Textile designers can earn on average £15,000 to £40,000 per year depending on experience. Creative industries earn the UK almost £92bn. The contribution of the UK creative industries - as measured by Gross Value Added (GVA) - rose by 7.6% in 2016, or more than twice as fast as the average 3.5% growth rate in this measure across the UK economy.
Progression:
• Textile design• Fashion• Costume design
• Clothing and Textile Technology• Interior Designer• Tailor
Do you have a passion for fashion or an artistic flair and love to create new and exciting designs? This Textiles course explores a range of interdisciplinary approaches and encourages you to experiment with a broad range of methods,materials and processes. You will have the opportunity to study textiles for a range of applications including fashion, interiors and textile art. From 3-D hand beading and laser cutting for appliqué to screen printing, you will learn how to create textile samples and transform them into innovative final outcomes. Your focused creative investigations will be underpinned with contextual understanding and you will have opportunities to take part in visits to inspirational locations, museums and exhibitions, to widen your knowledge and understanding and to experience and see the work of practicing artists and designers at first-hand.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above all from the core subjects.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Course Specific Entry Requirement: Grade 4 or a MERIT or DISTINCTION at BTEC Level 2 in an Art or Design subject. Entry may also be made via portfolio/interview.
Sport & PhysicalActivity
VOCATIONALLEVEL 3 2
YEARSEX
T DIP
A-LEVELTextiles 2YEARS
A-LEV
EL
Want to see some of our talented students work? See our Vision 2020 Art Exhibition (Page 124) or visit our online
gallery at: http://blogs.cirencester.ac.uk/artgallery/
82 www.cirencester.ac.uk
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Travel and tourism is one of the most dynamic and fastest growing industries in the world. By studying the Travel and Tourism course you will gain an in-depth knowledge of the organisations involved and how they work together. You will study selected global destinations in depth and also research current issues that the industry is facing. Customer service is key to the success of the industry and you will have the opportunity to deliver customer service in different situations as well as investigate how organisations meet the needs of their customers. During the two-year course you will participate in work experience in a relevant travel and tourism organisation. There is the opportunity to go on several course related trips, some of which are overseas.
• Tour Guide• Holiday Rep• Tourism Officer
• Event Manager• Hotel Manager• Marketing Executive
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including 3 from the core subjects.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
Travel andTourism
VOCATIONALLEVEL 3 2
YEARSD
IPLOM
A
2YEARS
CERT1YEAR
CERT
Progression:
Progression: • Hotel Manager• Events Co-ordinator• Restaurant Manager
• Head Chef• Event Manager• Bar Trainer
So you would like to work in the hospitality, tourism or event industry and possibly travel the world? By studying these industries, you will gain an in-depth knowledge of the organisations involved and how they work together. Customer service is key to the success of the industry and you will have the opportunity to deliver customer service in different situations as well as investigate how organisations meet the needs of their customers. You will plan, participate and market an event of your choice. During the two-year course you will undertake work experience in a relevant organisation. There is the opportunity to go on several course related trips, some of which are overseas.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including 3 from the core subjects.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Travel and TourismWith Hospitality & Event Management 2
YEARS
EXT D
IP1YEAR
90 CREDITS
VOCATIONALLEVEL 3
Careers in Travel and TourismSince 2010, tourism has been the fastest growing sector in the UK in employment terms. Britain is forecast to have a tourism industry worth over £257 billion by 2025. 9.6% of the total jobs in the UK are in the tourism sector. As at 2013, there were 3.1 million people employed in the UK in the tourism sector. In the Cotswolds this equated to 7,503 estimated actual employment and 5,355 FTE employment.
83www.cirencester.ac.uk
This course is designed for young people who require support and guidance to develop their social and employability skills. It will help to prepare you for independence in learning, life and employment, giving you the understanding and confidence you will need to succeed. This course is primarily a progression course for students who do not meet the entry requirements for an Apprenticeship, their chosen vocational Level 2 course, or who lack the experience to gain employment. You will build the practical skills needed to succeed in a learning or work environment and it will help you decide on the next stage of your career. The course focuses on improving your Maths & English GCSE grades, studying GCSE Citizenship, developing and enhancing the skills required for the working environment and participate in meaningful work experience.Entry requirements are as follows:
Not quite ready yet to take a T-level? Our Yet-T programme will set you up with a host of excellent skills and new approaches to work that will put you in a great position to apply for a T-level. You’ll also get the chance to get those GCSE English and Maths grades you need if you haven’t already attained them, wrapped up in a valuable and relevant training package.
*The Upgrade programme has three progression aims. Students can progress to a Level 2 course of their choice, subject to meeting the entry requirements. We have a huge success rate for students to progress onto Level 2 and even Level 3 Apprenticeships. We support students to find an apprenticeship that suits their career aims, a full-time job. As a College, we work with students to find work in an industry that they enjoy.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: Mainly Grade 1s and 2s at GCSE.Places will be offered following a satisfactory interview. Applicants will be expected to demonstrateenthusiasm and commitment to a particular vocational pathway.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: At least 3 Grade 3s at GCSE.
WHAT TO EXPECT?
WHAT TO EXPECT?
UpgradeStudy Programme
Yet-T
1YEAR
PRE GCSE
1YEAR
YET-T
PRE GCSE
T-LEVELSVOCATIONAL
LEVEL 2
84 www.cirencester.ac.uk
Travel and Tourism
is very varied, a lot of independent
learning and research. My lecturers are very
supportive with great knowledge and experience!
I would like to do an apprenticeship in hospitality or a related industry
when I finish my course.
HOLLY HARRISON(Cirencester Deer Park)
Extended Diploma in Travel & Tourism
85www.cirencester.ac.uk
UN
IVER
SITY
Leve
l Cou
rses
CONNOR HOLDENStudied Animal Management at Cirencester College gaining D*D*D*, then a Foundation Degree in British Wildlife Conservation and is now studying BSc (Hons) Wildlife and Countryside Management at the Royal Agricultural University.
The RAU is a great option for Cirencester College students, the two institutions have strong connections which gives it a sense of familiarity. The course I am studying predominantly focuses on British Wildlife and their habitats and the mechanisms in place to conserve and improve it, which has long been of interest to me. This course provides a great mixture of practical and theoretical work, which is great if you love being outside as I do. Cirencester College prepared me well for this course and University as a whole.
86 www.cirencester.ac.uk
In Partnership with
Higher Education courses at Cirencester College are a popular choice for students. Students benefit from small teaching groups, a strong support network and outstanding lecturers, whilst saving on living costs by studying locally. University level courses delivered by Cirencester College meet rigorous national requirements for quality and standards.
Cirencester College has delivered Higher Education programmes with the Royal Agricultural University for many years, offering students the combined expertise and facilities from both institutions. We offer Foundation Degrees in:
• Animal Science• British Wildlife Conservation • Business and Enterprise• Environmental Conservation and Heritage Management
Foundation Degrees combine academic study with vocational skills for specific employment sectors, equivalent in academic level to the first two years of a degree (full degree top-up opportunities are available).
87www.cirencester.ac.uk
A-level Results
WILLIA
M H
EBB
ERD
(Cirencester Kingshill) JO
SH W
OO
DEN
D(Archw
ay)
“The College was initially cautious about allowing me to do five A-levels but once I proved that I could handle it, they supported me to the end.”
NEXT: Engineering at Oxford University
“Cirencester College is a really amazing place, the support and feedback from the teachers provided really made this all possible.”
NEXT: English Literature at Oxford University
“I’m over the moon with my results. I’ve enjoyed every day of my College experience. I cannot thank my lecturers enough, they’ve been incredible.”
NEXT: Medicine at Plymouth University
“I’m very relieved that the hard work has paid off. The teachers were the biggest motivation and I couldn’t have done it without them.”
NEXT: Medicine at Plymouth University
A-level Maths, Further Maths, PhysicsComputer Science and Electronics
A-level English Literature, Sociology, Philosophy, Ethics and Religion
A-level Maths, Biology and Chemistry
A-level Maths, Photography and Psychology
CON
NIE R
ICH(Abbey Park)
KR
ISTAN
BR
AB
AN
D(Cleeve)
A*A*A*A*A*
A*A A*
A*A*A
A*A*A*
88 www.cirencester.ac.uk
Some A-level Highlights from 2020
JOE LEN
IHA
N(Kingsdow
n) LIA
MO
RSE
(Thomas Keble)
“I had a great two years at Cirencester and I am very happy with my results thanks to my lecturers! I’m excited for university now.”
NEXT: Chemistry at York University
“I have enjoyed studying my A-levels at Cirencester college. The ability to pursue subjects and themes that I am personally interested in within my creative A-levels has been my favourite aspect of the courses.”
NEXT: English Literature at Oxford University
“My experience at Cirencester College has been brilliant! These two years have been great. The teachers have been really helpful and supportive throughout.”
NEXT: Law at Worcester University
“The teaching quality is very good at Cirencester College. It’s really great knowing that the hard work in the last two years has paid off!”
NEXT: Computer Science MSc at Southampton University
A-level Maths, Biology and Chemistry
A-level Fine Art, Graphic Communication andEnglish Literature
A-level Law, Computer Science, Politics and Psychology
A-level Maths, Further Maths, Computer Science and Music Production
HA
RRY
JAN
SSEN(Cirencester Kingshill)
JOH
N H
UN
TER(St Joseph’s)
A*A*A
A*A*A
A A B B
A*A A D*
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Vocational Results
BA
ILEY TR
OLLO
PE(Com
monw
eal)
“It’s been the best 2 years at College. I’m beyond happy and proud of myself for all the work I’ve put in. “
NEXT: Sport Science at Exeter University
“Taking a work experience placement, definitely helped my ambitions for the future.”
NEXT: Going into employment Business/Marketing
Level 3 Sports and Exercise Level 3 Business
AM
ER AH
MED
(Kingsdownl)
D*D*D D*D*D*
ERIN
RA
WLIN
S(Ridgew
ay)
“Over the moon with my results! I have really enjoyed being at College.”
NEXT: Sport at University.
“It was really good at Cirencester, I felt well supported and I’m looking forward to the next challenge!”
NEXT: Primary Teaching at Plymouth Marjon University
Level 3 Sport and Exercise science Level 3 Sports
HA
RR
ISON
WO
OD
COCK
(Cirencester Deer Park)
D*DD D*DD
90 www.cirencester.ac.uk
NIC W
HITE
(St. Edward’s)
AM
IE RA
DFO
RD
(Maidenhill)
PHO
EBE H
ARD
IMA
N(M
almesbury)
Level 3 Business and IT
Level 3 Animal Management
Level 3 Horse Management
Level 3 Health and Social Care
Travel & Tourism and A-level Photography
D*D*+D*D*
D*
D*
D*D*D*
D*+ A
ALEXA
ND
ER JAM
ES
(Highw
orth Warneford)
MA
ISEY FO
UR
ACR
ES-PHILLIPS
(Thomas Keble)
Some Vocational Highlights from 2020 91www.cirencester.ac.uk
Results HIGHLIGHTS200+ Students
9 Students have gone on to study at Oxbridge
15 Students have gone on to study medicine
Cirencester Sixth Form College recruits from a broad intake of students. Historically, for a non selective College, our results are better than most schools and colleges.
We measure success through a national system called ALPS (see page 4). Our 2020 results show us performing at grade 3 which puts us in the top 25% nationally in terms of making a difference, for both academic and vocational courses. On average, students do significantly better here, than they might do else where
National data shows that our students who go onto university get better degrees than they would in most other institutions (see page 96).
Gained the equivalent of 3 Grade As at A-level or above (including Vocational students.)
143A*s
SO HOW DOES THIS HELP?
If you are a high achieving student, you should be able to get very high grades wherever you go. But you need to decide where will prepare you best for the next stage, especially if that involves top Universities. Our HESA reports consistently show that we can (see page 96).
If you are not a high achieving student, then you need to think about where might support you so that you do better at A-level, T-level or Vocational qualifications than you did at GCSE. You also need to think about which school or College will provide the best bridge to University, apprenticeships or work. The evidence from ALPs and HESA is that we can do this for you.
92 www.cirencester.ac.uk
What our Parents say...
“Through your letters page I would like to publicly thank Jim Grant, principal of Cirencester College, and all of his staff for their outstanding support of students and parents during the confusion over the A-level results.
As a parent I received regular updates on the evolving situation and staff were always available at the college to answer queries and give advice.We are lucky to have such a dedicated team helping the young people of Cirencester.”AW(Letter in the Wilts and Glos Standard, August 2020)
“I would like to thank you for your brilliant teaching, and all the support you have given... During his two years at Cirencester College”KF (Level 3 IT)
‘As a family we would like to express our gratitude for your professionalism and loyalty to your students. We appreciate all the hard work and dedication you and your staff have shown and will continue to show towards the students at Cirencester College and for keeping us informed at every stage of the process.”JS
“I wanted to say thank you to yourself and the team for the amazing visit to Sicily that you all organised. Our daughter had a fabulous time. I know a huge amount of work goes into making these trips a success, so please pass my thanks onto everyone who helped make it happen. These opportunities are so important to bring subjects to life for students, so thanks again!”PW(Geography)
93www.cirencester.ac.uk
A-level Vocational Level 3
1 A-level 3 A-levels T-levelExtended Diploma Diploma
Sub Diploma /Extended Certificate
CertificateUCAS Points
A*A*A* D* D*D*D* 168D*D*D 160D*DD 152
AAA D DDD 144AAB DDM 128BBB M 120BBC DMM D*D* 112
D*D 104CCC P
(C in the core)MMM DD 96
MMP DM 80DDD P
(D or E in the core)
72
DDE MPP MM 64A* D* 56A EEE PPP MP D 48B 40C PP M 32
D* 28D D 24E P M 16
P 8
Each qualification accumulates UCAS points which count towards your entry requirements for University.
The table below shows how the points accrue according to your achievement grade in each qualification.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
UCAS Points
94 www.cirencester.ac.uk
The national government website for apprenticeships has all of the up-to-date vacancy information. You don’t have to be actively looking for an apprenticeship to register. You can sign up and keep an eye on vacancies in the area to get an idea of the possibilities locally to help plan for the future. https://www.gov.uk/topic/further-education-skills/apprenticeships
UCAS is the University and Colleges Admissions Service. They hold all the information about university courses on their website and if you apply to university you will make an application through this service. The website has lots of careers information including a quick careers quiz which is an easy way to begin to generate some ideas. https://www.ucas.com/
What Uni allows students to register and research university courses and provides a tool for comparing universities as well as some useful guidance articles. https://www.whatuni.com/
The Russell Group’s guide Informed Choices provides students with information, advice and guidance about their post-16 subject choices. https://www.informedchoices.ac.uk/
Prospects is an excellent site designed for people already at university, with information on opportunities for graduates. For example, you might think ‘What job could I do if I studied a particular subject?’ This site will give you good ideas on careers you could do if you had a particular degree subject, following A-levels. It can be a good starting point if you have subjects you are interested in at A-level but don’t know where they might lead. https://www.prospects.ac.uk/
ACCESS TO CAREERS MATCHING TOOLS
95www.cirencester.ac.uk
Cirencester Sixth Form College Students gain fantastic results at University
This shows that Cirencester College students are consistently performing better than the average for the state sector (78.1%) and Sixth Form colleges (79.4%).
0
20
40
60
80
100
86.8%Cirencester
College
78.1%State
Schools
79.4%Sixth Form
Colleges
86.8% of our students graduating from University, achieved either a first class or upper second class honours degree.
Cirencester College 92.1%
Independent Schools 90.1%
Sixth Form 87.6%
State Schools 88.2%
85% 89%87% 91%86% 90%88% 92% 93%
Source: The Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) Report 2019
According to The Higher Education Statistics Agency, Cirencester College students go on to perform extremely well at University.
The second set of data shows, of the students who go on to the Russell Group Universities, 92.1% of them gained first class or upper second class honours degrees. Again this is higher than the Sixth Form College (88.2%), State (87.6%) and Independent (90.9) sectors.
88.8%CirencesterSixth Form
College
77.7%Sixth Form
College Sector
76.4%State sector
84.9%Independent
Sector
Percentage of students gaining first class and upper second class honours whose parents do not have Higher Education qualifications.
96 www.cirencester.ac.uk
Whi
ch U
NIV
ERSI
TIES
D
o O
ur S
tude
nts
Prog
ress
To?
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We are keen to encourage our students to aspire to go to the most competitive universities and join the most competitive courses in their field.
Enrichment
HAA students should expect to be challenged and stretched throughout their time at College. We will do this by cultivating their knowledge and skills and making Cirencester Sixth Form College students stand out from other applicants by:
• Allocating HAA students to a specialist ‘High Achiever’ tutor
• Providing weekly ‘High Achiever’ sessions to develop their skills
• Supporting students with applications including Oxbridge
• Offering the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) alongside their 3 - 4 A-level programme.
• Developing higher level academic skills including the abilities to think critically and to argue, key abilities prized by the top Universities.
• Providing information, advice and guidance on applying to top universities
• Working on interview skills
• Providing university visits and guest speakers
• Giving students ambassador roles, peer mentor and volunteering in the community
• Providing enrichment opportunities such as Debating Society; Vets, Medics and Dentists Group; Law; STEM Club, Duke of Edinburgh Award and much more
High Achievers
High Achievers may come from any sphere of study including the Arts, Sciences, Humanities, Sports etc. Some students may not think they are a High Achieving student, but for students who are predicted Grade 7s and above, the High Achievers Academy will be of interest to them.
98 www.cirencester.ac.uk
SHANNON WEST(Bradon Forest)A-levels Maths, Further Maths,Physics and Chemistry
The best things I like about Cirencester College are the lecturers and the academic resources. In the High Achievers’ Academy we attend really interesting lectures on a variety of topics.
The careers day is especially helpful by informing you about potential prospects from University to Apprenticeships, helping you decide on what to do after College.
99www.cirencester.ac.uk
We have dedicated Teachers, Technicians, Management and Governors with special roles in this area providing us with a powerful STEM portfolio.
If you want to be at the forefront of STEM then Cirencester Sixth Form College has to be your first choice.
100 www.cirencester.ac.uk
Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths
Cirencester Sixth Form has a state-of-the-art STEM Centre equipped with the latest technology and labs with a focus on the Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths core subjects.
STEM students are highly sought-after by employers and Cirencester ‘s STEM Centre is a response to these priorities both locally and nationally.
STEM at Cirencester College also has a thriving enrichment programme where students can develop ‘employability skills’ and demonstrate commitment to future employers, including:
STEM GroupStudents get involved in STEM activities, working with schools and employers, visiting universities and industries and attending talks to complement their subjects and highlight future careers
STEM High Achievers Group Specialist STEM tutor groups, STEM individual research projects (EPQ) and a focus on gaining places at top universities, in careers and Apprenticeships
Students wishing to pursue a career in Medicine, Veterinary Science or Dentistry attend additional tutorials to support their university applications in highly competitive fields
Engineering WorkshopStudents will get involved in activities including building a powered model aircraft design
Summer Schools/Work ExperienceSTEM students will be encouraged and supported to take part in Summer Schools including Nuffield, Sutton Trust and Villiers Park as well as gaining important work experience in career related areas
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Before leaving College and moving on to the next step of your career or education, it is important for us to maximise your potential. We intend to do this through our Enrichment programme by challenging and stretching you to make you the ‘stand out candidate’ for universities and future employers.
When you join Cirencester Sixth Form College, we will build a bespoke package around your own individual learning programme (A-level and/or Vocational) to enhance your learning and enrich youracademic experience.
Enrichment
102 www.cirencester.ac.uk
THE ENRICHMENT PROGRAMME INCLUDES:
• Extra qualification courses such as an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) or Pre-Teaching
• Non-qualification programmes e.g. Career Ready, Sports Development squads, Duke of Edinburgh or Young Enterprise
• Subject related enrichment e.g. Law Society, Debating Society and STEM activities
• Programmes and events e.g. University & Careers Convention, Guest Lectures, career guidance, Health, Fitness and Wellbeing Week
• Learning focused support e.g. Revision sessions, Support workshops and Work Experience. A supervised study session will be timetabled into your learning programme
With so many options within the Enrichment Programme, we recommend you think about your strengths and what might benefit you in the future. We will then pick out elements together from those listed on the next page to fit with your A-level or vocational programme courses to give you your very own tailor-made programme.
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SPORTS, CLUBS AND SOCIETIES FROM 2020/21 3D Modelling using Blender | Animation Club | Badminton for Fun BEAM! Gymnastics Volunteer | Basketball | British Sign Language Boxing | Bridge Club | Choir |Chess | Circuits | Circus skills | CISCO Classics Society | Community Art
Computing Club | Creative Writing | Creative craft club | Cricket Cricket Activators | Dance | Debating Society | Development Squads Dog Walking | Duke of Edinburgh Award | Fencing | Film Club Football | Football Activators | Futsal | Guitar Club | Gymnastics| HIITHigh Achievers | History & Archaeology | Hockey | Horse Riding Indoor Cycling | International Development | Introduction to French and Spanish | Law Society | LGBTQ+ and Alliances | Society | Maths Challenge Club Maths for Scientists | Mindfulness | Outdoor club | Painting with Watercolour | Pilates | Pottery | Psychology Club | Robotics Self-defence | Ski Trip | STEM | STEP/MAT Club Student Ambassadors Sundial Theatre Company | Swimming | Table Tennis | Tennis
This Girl Can Ambassador | Volleyball | VR Gaming | Walktography Wellbeing Leaders | Wheelchair Basketball | Women’s Football | Work Experience | Yoga | Young Enterprise
104 www.cirencester.ac.uk
PLUS OUR EDUCATION FOR LIFE PROGRAMME WHICH INCLUDES:
British Values | Careers Fair | Careers Guidance CV Writing | Elevate | Employability | Guest Lectures | Health, Fitness and Wellbeing | Higher Education Guidance | Higher Education Visits
Prevent & Being Safe | Vets & Medics | Work Experience
Weekly themes in our Education for Life groups are wide ranging containing a high level of career, equal opportunity and sustainability elements, for example:
International development, ICT, Gap Year, Mental Health, Health Awareness, Faith, Entrepreneurial and Enterprise, Higher Education, Black History, Children in Need, Disability
Awareness, STEM, Politics...
ACTIVITIES INCLUDE:
• Volunteering• Duke of Edinburgh Award • Attending workshops – we have over
50 fun and exciting weekly workshops to get involved in including martial arts, debating society, Law club, creative writing and a whole variety of sports, music sessions and societies.
• Mentoring (helping other students)• Fundraising for charity
• Organising events• Student representation on the College
Corporation• Working in local primary schools• Attending guest lectures• International exchanges• Sports• Health Week• Events, e.g. Remembrance Day, Political
Hustings• Huge range of subject trips
105www.cirencester.ac.uk
I take part in Gold Duke of Edinburgh, which has given me the opportunity to gain valuable skills, such as map reading, simple first aid, and taking bearings.
KIANNA EVANS(Cirencester Deer Park)A-level Biology, Chemistry and GermanDuke of Edinburgh Award
ENRI
CHM
ENT
Hig
hlig
hts
D of E Voluntary work
D of E Voluntary work
D of E Expedition
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D of E Voluntary work
D of E Expedition
SUNDIAL THEATRE COMPANYStudents are given the chance to be in shows, as well as train as directors and actors. Not only that, it has its own board where you will help organise and plan events. Each year we perform in National Theatre Connections at professional theatres such as Bath Theatre Royal and Bristol Old Vic, put on a Christmas show and sometimes make a musical. Every other year, we take a show up to the Edinburgh Festival, where we have had four star reviews for our hard-hitting original plays. Come and take part in: acting sessions every week, auditioning for the shows, rehearsing a part; working backstage, operating light and sound, touring to schools, performing in Sundial Theatre or even joining the board. If you like theatre, you’ll love this.
DUKE OF EDINBURGH AWARD
A nationally recognised qualification for young people in the UK. It is designed to encompass and develop the key features in young people that are most looked for by employers and universities. Over the 12-18 months it gives the student an opportunity to develop a new skill, maintain or improve physical wellbeing, show they are willing to help others by volunteering and experience adventure and independence through an expedition and residential.
At Cirencester Sixth Form College, students have the opportunity to sign up for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award or the Silver Award designed for young people aged 16-25 years of age. We are the highest achieving state college in Gloucestershire in the area of Gold and Silver awards. For more details take a look at our website: www.cirencester.ac.uk.
THE LAW SOCIETYStudents are given the opportunity to complete work placements in the local community with prestigious law firms. Students will complete a portfolio of learning objectives, evidencing their learning and development of skills needed to work in the field and to demonstrate their skills in client care. Those successful with a placement will also evidence their learning and development from the experience on the placement, build on their skills such as interpersonal skills, teamwork, organisation, and time management. Students will be introduced to building a portfolio on Client Care Skills, Legal Research and take part in Mooting where students can participate in mock trials complete with legal arguments, court etiquette and a judge.
THE DEBATING SOCIETYStudents are given the chance to develop their employability skills, socialise with others of the same interest and enter the regional competitions.
In 2017 and 2018, Cirencester College were finalists at the national competition Debating Matters.
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We all know that exercise plays a significant role in our physical health, however our mental health also greatly benefits from increased physical activity, such as relieving ‘exam stress’ and anxiety. Our aim is to help students of all abilities and backgrounds to improve their social, nutritional, emotional and physical well-being. Physical activity can also provide excellent transferable life skills such as leadership, communication, teamwork and resilience that will prove beneficial towards their future employment and mental wellbeing.
Through our community and club partnerships, Cirencester College has a range of enrichments for students to get involved in, ranging from participation, coaching, volunteering and workshops.
Health, Fitness& Wellbeing
Circus Skills
Boxing
Tree planting - Cirencester Park
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Cirencester College wants to provide all students with a wide range of opportunities and workshops on making healthy lifestyle choices on a regular basis. If you have any ideas of your own, our Sport Engagement Project Officer will be interested to
hear from you!
Get involved with as many enrichments as you can.
Don’t be afraid to meet new people!
AMY PALMER(Cirencester Deer Park)
Tree planting - Cirencester Park
Kayaking
STEM
Charity Fundraising
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S P O R T S
We are committed to offering a range of sports and fitness classes that will suit everyone, whatever their abilities. Whether you are someone who likes to compete or just wants to join in for fun, you should find something that suits you.
I HAVE THEATTITUDE
I HAVE THEMOTIVATION
I HAVE THEABILITY
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For those keen to stay in competitive sports and participate in weekly training sessions, we have our own renowned Football Academy and Sports Development Squads. If you would like to play sport for fun or are interested in your own Fitness, Health and Wellbeing, there is something for everyone.
• Improve the standard of their own individual performance
• Enhance their career prospects • Become involved with coaching or
leadership• Develop a personal portfolio with their
coach with a detailed improvement action plan
• Take individual fitness testing and
monitoring• Have free fitness centre membership• Gain NGB coaching awards• Gain entry into the AOC sport national
championships• Be involved in organising a cross-college
sports event• Be involved in organising community sports
events
SPORTS DEVELOPMENT SQUADSWith significant investment in sports facilities, the College has created a centre for sports in the region that nurtures both performance and coaching talent.
For those students who are keen to take an active part in sport, the development squads are an ideal solution. They sit within the student’s programme of study, which will include training sessions and competitive matches. The students also get the opportunity to:
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TWO MALE TEAMS TAKE PART IN:
• 1st team – AOC West Midlands Category 2 Premier League
• 2nd Team – AOC West Midlands Category 2 • Cup competitions (ESFA Colleges’ Trophy,
English Colleges’ Cup & Glos County)
Previous Cirencester College Football students are currently in:
• Careers in professional football and semi-professional football
• Football refereeing
• Further and Higher Education competing in University football BCS leagues
• Full-time work in sports and/or leisure related areas
• Football coaching worldwide• Overseas scholarships in the USA
22 players have gained international honours in both British Colleges and British School teams.
The Girls Football Academy enjoy the same excellent training and coaching as the boys teams. Meeting twice a week for training and playing in the BCS Cat 3 Women’s League for matches on Wednesday afternoons, the team is open to female students from across the College from all programmes of study and your training will fit into your timetable along with your lessons.
Recreational Football
You can join our Football for Fun enrichment programme if you just want to have a ‘kick around’ with a football on a Wednesday afternoon. You can get involved with local fixtures or play some 5-a-side.
Trials for new students are planned to take place in March 2021
Cirencester College Football Academy is focused on the development of talented students, providing the best possible exit routes for individuals.
The programme includes two weekly training sessions, a competitive fixture in the AOC college leagues, and a strength and conditioning session. The programme is integrated into the student’s timetable, ensuring that academia and sport go hand-in-hand.
Football Academy
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BEN CARTER(Cirencester Deer Park)Level 3 Sports
Playing in the Football Academy gives me the opportunity to apply and link practical sports experience to the theory of Sports Coaching and Development on my course. I get to do three training sessions a week as well as a match, that is timetabled, so I don’t miss any lessons.
The Football Academy coaches are well respected players and coaches in their own right, so can really help to develop your football career.
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Take a look at some of our Trips at Cirencester College.
It’s not all about what you learn in the classroom. We’ll ensure you have the opportunity to gain the practical experience and confidence to help progression, in all aspects of your courses.
Postcards From...
University of Warwick
Budapest
Malvern Hills
Emirates Experience
Knitting & Stitching Show
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Emirates Experience
Harry Potter World
Harry Potter World
Seville
Sicily
Ski Trip Italy
Geography Field Trip
Emirates Experience
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You may be choosing your post-16 course choices based on your interest and enjoyment of particular subjects, have a clear idea about your future career plan or have a few ideas but are not completely sure yet. It is never too early to start thinking about your longer-term goals so here are some things to think about before you make an application to Cirencester College.
Use the information on our website to find out more about our courses.It will tell you what you will study and also where the course could lead in terms of career options.
Careers Help
1
2
3
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Attend one of our open days and speak to subject staff and current students about the courses you are interested in.
Look at our ‘Pathways’ software on our course pages. This will give you lots of inspiration about careers, Higher Education and Apprenticeships within your chosen subjects.
Discuss your ideas with parents, teachers or the careers adviser at school.
Research online via our Careers Microsite through the Applicant Portal.
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APPLICANT PORTALApplicants to Cirencester College will be able to access our Careers and HE Microsite which has links to even more careers resources. Applicants can also gain exclusive access to a Careers Tool called Kudos. Kudos is an interactive career matching tool, designed to give you suitable career ideas and provides comprehensive information about jobs, qualifications, skills and useful contacts.
In addition to careers matching and information, the Kudos tool enables you to: identify suitable careers, explore your transferable skills, consider progression routes, identify gaps in your skills and subject choices, create a UCAS personal statement, produce education/career plans and build your own CV. It may be useful to complete this before an admissions interview with us so that we can work together to get you on the right programme.
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EMPLOYABILITYWe offer an employability programme to help those students who want to develop their employability skills. Students will have access to workshops to help develop the skills needed to research career options, develop career plans and secure chosen positions.
& ExperienceEmployability
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Students on a vocational study programme will undertake work experience as part of their course. For non-vocational study programmes, students are encouraged to gain relevant work experience to prepare them for their future.
Young Enterprise is a chance for students to develop those skills, attitudes and entrepreneurial experience to build a successful career. Students will be part of a team who will form a company. They will set up and plan their business, allocate roles and responsibilities, create a product, raise capital and develop a marketing and sales plan. Students will then sell their products at trade fairs and give a presentation about their business at the local finals.
Over the years, the Cirencester College Young Enterprise teams have been successful in achieving a number of awards.
Students should plan to undertake work experience activities in the holidays and through regular part-time work and enrichment activities, where their timetable allows. The College allocates a week in February for first year A-level students to undertake a block work experience placement over 4 days.
As a College, we will provide advice and guidance and a range of opportunities via our careers service and tutorial programme for students in the run up to February. We have a large number of students from a wide geographical area so input and support from parents in making the most of this work experience week will also be invaluable.
WORK EXPERIENCE
YOUNG ENTERPRISE
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As part of the Career Ready programme, I have monthly meetings with a personal mentor, during which we cover key employability skills, such as team working, as well as how to properly write a CV and personal statements.
CHARLOTTE MARTIN(Bradon Forest)A-levels Physics, Fine Art, Maths and Further Maths
Care
er R
eady
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Career Ready is a national employability programme, supported by employers, which focuses on raising career awareness and enabling students to reach their aspirations.
The programme successfully connects students to the world of work in four ways:
The programme is not a separate course but runs alongside a student’s academic studies. Any first year student can apply for the Career Ready programme; a place is offered as a result
of an interview process where students are expected to demonstrate a commitment to the programme together with a clear understanding of how it will benefit them.
Cirencester College is the only local college to offer this programme.
EMPLOYABILITYMASTER-CLASSES
WORK PLACEMENTS MENTORING
EMPLOYABILITYTALKS & VISITS
Students develop employability skills such as
networking, personal branding and interview techniques
Students understand the workplace, build awareness of career possibilities and gain knowledge of recent developments in the industry
Students practise employability skills through meaningful work and further develop
their career awareness
Students reflect on their own career learning and build their own career plans
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As a result of the increased demand from students outside our immediate area for transport to Cirencester College, we run approximately 30 subsidised Stagecoach buses to the College. Our bus routes pick up from various areas in Swindon, Cheltenham, Stroud, Gloucester, Yate and
surrounding villages including those above. Routes may be subject to change each year.
Full information on all our routes can be found on our website or by contacting Student Journey on 01285 626147
How To Get To Us
CURRENT PICK UP POINTS
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Timetables Exam entries & exam timetables Attendance data Target grades
Current performance
grades
Contact information & biographical
details
Direct access to Wisepay, the college’s online payment portal
How best to support
your son or daughter
FAQs
To help parents support students, Cirencester College has built Parent Zone, a dedicated part of the website where they can access key data about their son’s or daughter’s progress as well as news updates, important dates and other useful information.
Parent Zone is where parents will find the latest information, together with news updates, mailing list sign up and the
opportunity to feedback on how we’re doing.
Parent Zone
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Ben Waldron
Cirencester College offers a wide range of creative courses; from 3D Design to Textiles, Fine Art to Graphic Design. All of these specialist courses allow students to try their hand at different techniques using specialist equipment and resources, with the aim of creating really unique pieces of work that students can be proud of.
In June 2020, the College was due to put on a showcase of all of our creative students’ fantastic work, titled Vision 2020. Visitors from local schools were invited to come up to see what our students had produced, and explore what Cirencester College has to offer to creative individuals.
This exhibit unfortunately couldn’t happen due to Covid-19 restrictions, so instead we have chosen to showcase a few of the pieces of work here. Hopefully they can inspire you to consider one of our Art courses in the future!
We hope restrictions will be lifted by Summer 2021 to enable us to safely exhibit the work of our current students. Follow us on social media to ensure you get to know the dates.
VISUALARTSSHOW
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Jose
ph C
legg
Esm
e H
eath
Fraya Mealing
TEXTILES
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Albie Lucas
Eliz
abet
h By
e
Lia
Mor
se
FINE ART
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Ryandeev JohalChar
lott
e Jo
nes
Josh
Ven
n
GRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
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Ellie
Hea
thO
llie Goodenough
Ben
Lat
ham
3D DESIGN
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Haw
thorn Hartley
Sophie BroughtonOllie Dalziel
Hat
tie
Wid
dow
son
ART & DESIGN
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Visit us & find out moreOpen DaySaturday 17 October 2020 (10am to 4pm)
Open Evening Thursday 11 February 2021(5pm to 8pm)
Apprenticeship Information EveningTuesday 2 March 2021
High Achievers’ Academy Information EveningWednesday 3 March 2021
Open EveningThursday 1 July 2021(5pm to 8pm)
Choices Day Taster lessonsThursday 8/Friday 9 July 2021
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This prospectus can be made available in alternative formats for people with disabilities by contacting the Marketing Department at Cirencester College on 01285 640994 or email [email protected]
The information contained in this prospectus is believed to be correct at the time of production, September 2020.
Cirencester College continually updates and reviews its provision to ensure that it meets the needs of the community. Therefore the right to amend, change or delete learning programmes or accreditation routes is reserved at all times.
Cirencester Sixth Form College is committed to creating a safe, supportive and inclusive environment for all learners, both socially and academically.
Cirencester Sixth Form College provides open access to a comprehensive range of high quality education and training courses for people over the age of 16, regardless of race, class, belief, language, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, previous educational attainment or particular circumstances.
My checklist for joiningCirencester Sixth Form College
Careers Advice
Visit a Cirencester College Open Event
Courses I would like to know more about:
Entry qualifications I need:
Apply
My interview date is on:
Research for my admissions interview including:
• Career Plans• Course information on Cirencester College website
www.cirencester.ac.uk
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COURSE indexSubject Level Page
Accounting A 28
Ancient History A 28
Animal Care L2 Voc 30
Animal Management L3 Voc 30
Art and Design L3 Voc 31
Biology A 32
Biology (Applied Human Biology) L3 Voc 31
Business L2 Voc 33
Business L3 Voc 33
Business Studies A 35
Chemistry A 35
Childcare & Education T-level 37
Classical Civilisation A 37
Computer Science A 38
Core Maths Level 3 63
Criminology L3 Voc 38
Design - 3D Design A 39
Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction
T-level 40
Digital Business Services T-level 41
Digital Production, Design &Development T-level
T-level 40
Digital Support Services T-Level 42
Drama & Theatre Studies A 42
Economics A 44
Electronics A 44
Engineering L3 Voc 45
English Language A 46
English Language GCSE 46
English Language & Literature A 47
English Literature A 47
Enterprise & Entrepreneurship L3 Voc 48
Environmental Science A 48
Event Planning L3 Voc 50
Equine Care L2 Voc 49
Equine Management L3 Voc 50
Film Studies A 51
Financial Studies L3 Voc 51
Fine Art A 52
French A 52
Functional Skills English Level 1/2 54
Functional Skills Maths Level 1/2 54
Geography A 55
Geology A 55
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