Welcome...

...to the Westwood Sixth Course Guide 2015.

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

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

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

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Admission Requirements

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

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

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

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How to Choose Your Courses

In addition to looking at your most recent attainment grades, you should consider which subjects you enjoy, and which subjects will lead to the career path you aspire to.

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

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

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Application Timeline

JanuaryFill in your application form. Forms are available online, and copies are sent to those who request them. Though applications are accepted right up until September, prospective students are encouraged to submit an early application as popular courses fill quickly.

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

MarchExternal Applicants’ Interviews. The interview is an opportunity for you to ask questions and for us to check the courses that you have chosen.

April-MayInternal Applicants’ Interviews. The interview is an opportunity for you to ask questions and for us to check the courses that you have chosen.

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

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

September 8th: College Begins!

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Archaeology

Course Leader

Miss C Knowles

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

The study of Archaeology will see you investigating key sites of Roman Europe including the temple of Vesta in Rome and the Villa of Mysteries in Pompeii. You will interpret evidence, drawing your own conclusions about religion and ritual in the Roman world. You will also learn the basic skills and methods of practical Archaeology

Contemporary issues and themes in world Archaeology are studied in the second year of the course. You will also complete a coursework assignment for the A2 part of the course, which will see you investigating an area of your local environment, carrying out research and conducting fieldwork

Assessment80% externally set written examination.20% internally assessed practical coursework.

Additional OpportunitiesField work and trips to Chester and The British Museum.

Useful Skills and CharacteristicsA keen interest in uncovering the past through the use of data. An interest in the society and culture of the Romans.

A commitment to developing your analytical and evaluative skills, demanding evidence to support opinion.

You should be keen to study aspects of Science; Art; Technology; History and Religion within this practical, wide-ranging and academically demanding subject.

In addition to the Sixth Form entry requirements, B/C grades Science and Humanities subjects are advised.

Archaeology isn’t just for those who wish to become archaeologists! You’ll learn high level analytical skills, there are scientific elements to the course, and Archeology complements A Level History really well.

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Art - Fine Art

Course Leader

Miss K Lea

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

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

Assessment50% externally set examination.50% personal portfolio.

Additional OpportunitiesVisits to major galleries including the Met Museum and Museum of Modern Art in New York. You will have the opportunity to work on College productions to assist with scenery and set.

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

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

Some competence with painting, drawing and/or textiles at GCSE.

The ability to solve problems and work independently.

Resilience and determination and a willingness to work hard.

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

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

Art - Photography/Textiles

Course Leader

Miss K Lea

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

Those specialising in textiles will undertake a succession of three-week blocks of work in various themes and mediums including Printmaking, digital art and Fashion.

Those specialising in photography will explore darkroom processing, traditional 35mm photography and print-making.

Assessment50% externally set examination.50% personal portfolio.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Biology

Course Leader

Mrs G Baker

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

AssessmentExamination and practical assessment.

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

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

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

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

The ability to solve problems and work independently.

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

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

Biology is a very useful subject for a range of careers, including Medicine, Veterinary Sc ience , Dent i s t ry , Physiotherapy, Teaching, Research, Environmental and Ecological work.

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Business

Course Leader

Mrs K Percival

The CourseStudents study six modules from: The Business Environment, Business Resources, An Introduction to Marketing and Business Communications. There are optional units taken from a range including: Accounting, Promotion, Employment Law, Health & Safety, Starting a Small Business, International Business and Business Ethics.

Assessment100% assessed coursework.

Additional OpportunitiesGuest speakers, CIPFA Management Team Events.

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

Enjoyment of solving problems and making decisions.

Basic ICT and numeracy skills.

The drive to develop good research skills in order to help you to think independently about real business issues.

You do not need to have studied this Business at GCSE Level in order to succeed in this subject.

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

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Chemistry

Course Leader

Mr S Mycock

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

AssessmentExamination and practical assessment.

Additional OpportunitiesCafé Scientifique; Chemistry Olympiad.

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

The ability to deal with abstract ideas.

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

The ability to solve problems and work independently.

Resilience and determination and a willingness to work hard.

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

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

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

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Design and Technology: Product Design

Course Leader

Mr B Rushton

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

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

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

Assessment40% written examination.60% practical coursework.

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

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

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

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

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

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Drama and Theatre Studies

Course Leader

Mrs S Hansell

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Course Leader

Mrs H Gilbert

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

Assessment100% Examination.

Additional OpportunitiesSixth Form newspaper, lower school literacy support.

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

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

You must also be willing to work hard.

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

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

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

English Language

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English Literature

Course Leader

Mrs H Gilbert

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

Assessment80% Examination, 20% independent coursework.

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

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

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

You must also be willing to work hard.

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

Consider English if you have an interest in:

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

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Course Leader

Mr D Lawton

The CourseThe course is equally divided between Human and Physical Geography and consists of four modules; two in both AS and A2.

The four modules cover important contemporary issues and you will investigate topics such as: Going Global, Extreme Weather, Rebranding Places and Biodiversity Under Threat.

In Year 13, research is conducted from secondary sources on topics such as: Cultural Diversity, Tectonic Hazards and Leisure and Tourism.

Assessment100% Examination.

Additional OpportunitiesThe course involves a three day field trip to Bournemouth and the surrounding area to study urban re-branding and crowded coasts.

Useful Skills and CharacteristicsYou should have a keen interest in current issues, local, national and global especially the way human activity affects our environment.

You should have an open mind and be willing to consider a range of opinions and solutions.

You will need to think independently and express your opinion in both written and spoken form.

You should be willing to use a variety of resources to compile detailed case studies.

You will need to develop your analytical skills particularly in statistics, map-drawing and ICT.

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

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

Geography

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History

Course Leader

Mr D Morgan

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

Assessment80% Examination, 20% Historical Investigation

Useful Skills and CharacteristicsIndependent thought and analytical skills.

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

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

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

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Course Leader

Mrs P Hemmings

The CourseThe course consists of eight mandatory and four optional units.

The mandatory units include the following topics: Communication, Development Through the Life Stages, Equality Diversity and Rights, Health and Safety, Anatomy and Physiology, Psychology and Sociology.

The optional units include the following topics: Nutrition, Research Methodology, Caring for Children and Young People, Infection Prevention and Control, Complementary Therapies, Health Education.

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

Additional Opportunities100 hours of work experience is completed in a variety of settings. Level 2 qualifications in Healthier Foods and Special Diets and Food Safety in Catering are taken along with a Basic First Aid Course and Health and Safety in the workplace. Visits to a range of health and social care settings are arranged. Practical workshops are organised by the University Hospital of North Staffordshire and Keele University. Students attend the Social Care Conference at the New Vic Theatre.

Useful Skills and CharacteristicsThe ability to research and work independently.

Well organised and able to meet deadlines.

Good oral and written communication skills.

Enjoy using ICT in the presentation of your work.

Enjoy a ‘hands on’ approach to learning.

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

Primary Teaching, Nursing, Midwifery, Police, Social Work, Youth Work, Health-related careers (Occupational Therapy, Radiology)

The skills developed can be applied to many careers.

Health and Social Care

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Information and Communication Technology

Course Leader

Mr H Khan

The CourseThe course is based around six modules, three in Year 12, and three in Year 13. You will have the opportunity to develop a range of practical ICT skills which are widely used across industry, e-commerce and the service sectors. You will also develop an appreciation of the importance of ICT in society and focus on a range of hardware and software. You’ll develop knowledge, skills and understanding through active learning in an applied context.

Assessment100% assessed / externally moderated practical coursework.

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

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

You should have good general literacy and numeracy skills .

You need to be prepared to work hard and demonstrate determination and commitment.

In addition to the Sixth Form Entry Requirements, a grade C+ from a GCSE ICT course, or a Merit from a Level 2 vocational ICT course is advised.

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

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Course Leader

Mrs T Lewis

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

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

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

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

Additional OpportunitiesMaths Challenges and work with other students.

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

Enjoying intellectual challenge and relish solving problems and puzzles.

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

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

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

Mathematics

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Further Mathematics

Course Leader

Mrs T Lewis

The CourseThe course consists of six modules; three in both AS and A2.This is a very interesting and challenging subject for students wishing to gain two Advanced Level qualifications in Mathematics: it will extend and deepen students’ knowledge and understanding beyond the standard A-Level Mathematics course.

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

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

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

Additional OpportunitiesMaths Challenges and work with other students.

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

Enjoying intellectual challenge and relish solving problems and puzzles.

The ability to solve problems and work independently.

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

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

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

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Course Leader

Ms J Dunn

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Willingness to work collaboratively.

Enjoyment of forming and voicing your own point of view.

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

Media Studies

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Modern Foreign Languages

Course Leader

Mr S Phillips

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

The AS course is based around topics of The Media, Popular Culture, Healthy Lifestyles and Family /Relationships.

At A2 the key topics are: The Environment; Multicultural Society and Contemporary Social Issues and two cultural topics involving target language-speaking groups or communities.

Assessment100% examination in both AS and A2, one unit consists of the Listening, Reading and Writing elements and the second contains the Speaking element.

Additional OpportunitiesStudy visits to France, Germany and Spain.

Useful Skills and CharacteristicsAn interest in languages and an enjoyment of the challenge of using them to communicate at varying levels.

A willingness to learn vocabulary, to read texts, to spend time listening (e.g. to news reports on TV or the Internet) and to welcome the opportunity to talk to a native speaker as well as to visit the country whose language(s) you are studying.

An appreciation that the ability to communicate in one or more languages is a key asset in the workplace in the 21st century.

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

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

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Course Leader

Miss S Burns

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

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

Assessment30% Internally assessed performance30% Externally assessed composition40% Externally assessed aural, historical and analytical work

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

Useful Skills and CharacteristicsYou’ll need to be an enthusiastic musicians with a desire to extend your musicianship.

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

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

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

Music

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Music Technology

Course Leader

Miss S Burns

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

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

Assessment70% Externally assessed creative Portfolio30% Externally assessed listening examination

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

Useful Skills and CharacteristicsThe course suits those who are enthusiastic about popular music.

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

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

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

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

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

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Course Leader

Mrs A Moore

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

At AS, you will extend your knowledge through studying Anatomy and Physiology, Skill Acquisition and Socio-Cultural Studies. You will also be assessed on your technical ability in two sports and your ability to provide a detailed evaluative response to a live sporting performance.

At A2, you will build on the concepts that have been developed during the AS course studying Exercise Physiology, Sport History and Sport Psychology. You will be assessed on your performance in one sport and be required to extend your evaluation response to include the theoretical principles behind the sporting performance.

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

Additional OpportunitiesSports Clubs, Sports Leadership opportunities

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

Regular participation in sport outside of College.

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

Good presentation and communication skills

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

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

Physical Education

Course Leader

Mr T Thackstone

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

AssessmentExamination and practical assessment.

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

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

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

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

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

Physics

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

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Psychology

Course Leader

Ms E Maunders

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

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

Assessment100% external examination.

Additional OpportunitiesSocial Science discussion group.

Useful Skills and CharacteristicsAn interest in human behaviour and the ability to relate Psychological theories to real life.

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

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

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

Here are a few examples:

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

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

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Course Leader

Mr D McLellan

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

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

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

AssessmentAll units are assessed by end of year module exams.

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

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

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

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

An interest in how things work and why things happen.

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

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

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

Religion and Philosophy

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Sociology

Course Leader

Miss A Hay

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

Assessment100% external examination.

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

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

In addition to the Sixth Form entry requirements, B/C grades Science and Humanities subjects are advised.

The class of 2014 went on to study; Law, Nursing, Occupational Therapy, Psychology, Criminology, and Social Science.

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

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Course Leader

Mrs A Moore

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sport

If you have any queries about your course choices, you can contact us: