Sixth Form Prospectus by altonschool4

Welcome to our Sixth Form Your guide to Sixth Form life and A level options

Welcome Welcome to Alton School Sixth Form Our Sixth Form is often described by our students as one big family. We provide a supportive and inspiring environment where you can learn to work independently and prepare for life beyond school. Every one of our students has a voice and is listened to; being known as an individual with all the depth of understanding that brings is of immense benefit. Sixth Form is over all too quickly so you want to hit the ground running. The close support of tutors, small class sizes and above all our knowledge of you can make a significant difference to your Sixth Form years. Most importantly, we are proud of who you become during your time at Alton School: confident, independent, caring young people ready to face your future. Our wonderful results and university destinations tell that story brilliantly. Please take every opportunity to see for yourself the experience we offer and why our students love Alton School Sixth Form. If you would like to discuss any aspect of your Sixth Form experience with me, please do get in touch.

Jackie Ward Director of Upper School

What our students say “One of the first things I noticed when joining the Sixth Form was the community. It really felt that if you needed support or help then everyone would be there for you.”

Why study here? What we will help you achieve We have a highly effective approach to A level study which can be seen in students’ outstanding A level achievements. 45% of students were awarded grades A*- A with 92% of students achieving grades A*- C. Students go on to study a wide range of courses at universities and colleges across the country. In 2022 courses and destinations included Physiotherapy at Kings College London, Dental Surgery at Plymouth, Architecture at Cardiff, English at Exeter, Zoology at Southampton and Early Childhood and Care at Norland College.

How we teach Every student has the option to begin Sixth Form studying four subjects, refining their choices to three by October half term. We encourage every student to do an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). It is highly valued by universities and is equivalent to half an A level. Our size means we can approach Year 12 and 13 in a unique way that allows for a broader and more experiential approach to learning. You will benefit from the highest quality teaching and bespoke learning experiences. There are regular reviews with teachers, frequent seminar-style study sessions and regular collaboration with other schools, colleges, universities and industry.

Supporting you into Higher Education You will receive 1:1 support all the way through the UCAS process including Oxbridge and medical applications. Additional tutor time, interview training and a bespoke higher education evening are all part of our offer.

Why Choose us?

We know that you will be considering your Sixth Form options carefully. We are here to support you through your A level years and give you the best possible all round experience.

Listening We care what you think and are open to ideas. This is your Sixth Form and we want to make it the best possible experience for you We have three main principles that guide who we are and how we teach and support you.

Learning We ensure you get outstanding teaching from A level specialists who know you well.

Support It’s just what we do. We will be with you every step of the way. From the first days of Year 12 through the UCAS process, on results day, to university and beyond.

What our students say “Writing your personal statement, filling out your UCAS application and sorting out references feels like a full-time job. However, the unwavering support here is invaluable. Because of the small class sizes and great relationships with your teachers, you feel so supported throughout the process.”

Your Sixth Form The Sixth Form is a separate centre away from the main school building and provides students with a space of their own. It has classrooms, a large common room with a fully equipped kitchen, toilets, showers and what our students tell us they benefit most from, their private study rooms. In addition, you have full access to the School’s facilities, including: Subject specific facilities: - Modern Science labs - Art Studio with dedicated space for A level students - Photography dark room - Music Suite with classrooms and rehearsal spaces, including a recording studio - Drama Studio for teaching, rehearsing and performances Additional facilities: - Lunches in the School Refectory - Fully equipped gym - Sports Hall, courts and playing fields - Beautiful woodland grounds

Study Rooms These are generously sized and can be for one, two or three students. They are accessible from 8am to 6pm every day. It is a safe, quiet space to work and importantly somewhere you can keep your academic work and belongings. You can decorate your study rooms and make it your own space. “I love how we have our own study rooms, where we can work independently while having access to our teachers if we need. We also have the common room where we can sit with our friends and relax.”

Community Community is important to us The Alton School Community starts at home and there is no better place to see this in action than the Sixth Form Centre. We are also fortunate to be part of an international community which opens up travel and self-development opportunities in our sister schools around the world. We regularly take part in charity events including, the Big Sleep Out, Comedy Revue, supporting local care homes and fund raising at School events.

The Sixth Form Centre We are lucky to have our very own Sixth Form Centre, which has been recently refurbished. It’s a ready-made community and space to hang out – no worries about needing to make new friends or finding friends during the day.

Comedy Revue

Enrichment In addition to A level study, enrichment is a core part of life in our Sixth Form. Workshops, talks by external speakers and trips both home and abroad develop higher level thinking, knowledge of current affairs and wider world awareness.

Trips and Visits We all know that there is more to a Sixth Form experience than study and so we make sure that there are plenty of other opportunities to get to know each other, see what is going on in the outside world and develop new skills. Most importantly, we ask you what you would like to do and try to make that happen. Here are some of the things we do: The Year 12 bonding trip in the Autumn Term allows everyone to get to know each other well at the start of Sixth Form. Every Easter, a group of our Sixth Formers join disabled and disadvantaged children for a week in Lourdes, courtesy of the charity HCPT. The children have a wonderful fun-filled week, allowing their regular carers to have a break. Our students return from Lourdes closer as a group, more confident as individuals, spiritually enriched and much more aware of the world beyond their own. International trips: These often go beyond the usual and in the past have included India, Colombia, New York and Amsterdam.

What our students say “A stand out thing for me was the range of opportunities for trips. If you like culture, travelling or languages, you really can go all around the world.”

Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) The EPQ has proved to be popular with students and teachers alike. For universities it shows a high level of knowledge and interest in a subject as well as independent learning and is often a key talking point at interviews. The qualification provides an opportunity for students to extend their abilities beyond the A level syllabus and to stand out, with the added bonus of earning extra UCAS points. It is also great preparation for university study or future careers. Previous titles include ‘How effective was the art and architecture of Versailles as a symbol of Louis XIV’s power?’ and ‘To what extent did Emmeline Pankhurst’s role in the Suffragette Movement effect politics?’.

How will I be assessed? Three elements are assessed: 1. The completed project. 2. Production Log (where students record their project process, reviewing and evaluating their progress – this is as important as the finished project). 3. Students must also prepare and deliver a presentation about their project.

What will I learn? Studying an EPQ will allow you to embark on a largely self-directed and self-motivated project with the support of an experienced supervisor. You choose a topic, then plan, research and develop your idea and decide on your finished project (which must include a report but can also include an artefact or a production such as an event or show). You will learn project management and organisational skills as well as essay writing, research, and critical analysis. You learn to identify, design, plan and complete a project; to research a range of sources, analyse data and apply it relevantly; to solve problems creatively; and to review and evaluate your learning and performance.

The Options Art & Design Biology Business Studies Chemistry Computer Science Drama & Theatre English Literature French Geography Graphic Design History Maths and Further Maths Music Photography Physical Education Physics Politics Psychology Religious Studies Spanish Textiles

Art and Design Art underpins our modern lives. We need artists to decorate, design, imagine and visualise our world. Artists have skills in problem-solving, developing, researching and explaining – all transferable skills which are valuable in the professional world of work. Our students go on to foundation courses and progress to degree level, specialising in diverse areas of Art and Design. The subject is also studied by students wishing to progress to medicine, science and a wide range of specialist areas.

How will I be assessed? Component 1 – folio of work (60%). This is your opportunity to explore and create. You will learn about the work of other artists and designers. You will develop your own folio of work which explores a theme which interests you. You will also produce a written component which explores your own work in a more formal and analytical way. Component 2 – externally set assignment. This is worth 40% of the final mark and is a project based on a set theme – you will be offered a wide range of starting points to choose from. You will research, plan and prepare for a final outcome, the controlled test, which is a 15 hour piece produced in exam conditions in the Summer Term.

What will I learn? This qualification is a broad course, so it caters for all approaches from the pure fine artist to those who like to be more experimental and push boundaries. If you want to draw, paint, print, make collages, stitch, take photos, work with Photoshop, explore the visual world, then this is the course for you. There are no restrictions on the media and techniques you may choose to use. You will improve your drawing and analytical skills, but will also have the opportunity to try new processes and work with different materials to produce some exciting work and learn about what other artists are doing.

Why at Alton School Art and Design at Alton School provides students with the opportunity to explore their own personal, creative journey. The small class size allows for tailor-made teaching, working with the student’s strength and personal interests. This in turn empowers independent growth and development while equipping students with new artistic processes and techniques. Art and Design is taught in a specialist A level Studio, where each student has their own work station allowing continuous access throughout the day for uninterrupted study.

Biology Biology is the science of life. Biologists are needed to continue to make breakthroughs in many disciplines including genetics and medicine and to further understand the natural world around us. MRSA, stem cell research, COVID-19, Cancer - these are only a fraction of the current hot topics in the media. Biological research makes discoveries on a daily basis and the study of Biology at A level will help you to understand the scientific advances being made around us. This subject is held in high regard by universities and employers because it equips students with a logical mind and many transferable skills.

How will I be assessed? Paper 1 - any content from topics 1-4 (2 hours, 35% of A level) Paper 2 - any content from topics 5-8 (2 hours, 35% of A level) Paper 3 - any content from topics 1-8 (2 hours, 30% of A level)

What will I learn? Topics 1-8: 1. Biological molecules 2. Cells 3. Organisms exchange substances with their environment 4. Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms 5. Energy transfers in and between organisms. 6. Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments 7. Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems 8. The control of gene expression

Future Careers Biology is required for studies in many subjects including natural sciences, medicine, dentistry, pharmacology, veterinary science, botany, zoology, pathology, physiotherapy, psychology and genetics.

Business Studies

“Build a better mousetrap, and the world will beat a path to your door” is a phrase attributed to Ralph Waldo Emerson in the late nineteenth century. The phrase is actually a misquotation of the statement: “If a man has good corn or wood or boards, or pigs, to sell, or can make better chairs or knives, crucibles or church organs, than anybody else, you will find a broad hard-beaten road to his house, though it be in the woods.” That is what businesses aim to do from the Sole Trader to The Public Limited Company, from the domestic to the global scale. Business Studies can lead to Higher Education courses such as Business and Management degrees or degrees in Business and Economics. These can be combined with a modern foreign language and may allow for a year of study or a work placement in either the UK or overseas.

What will I learn? The course is made up of four themes: - Marketing and people - Managing business activities - Business decisions and strategy - Global business

How will I be assessed? You will be assessed by 3 x 2 hour papers Paper 1 - Marketing, people and global businesses Paper 2 - Business activities, decisions and strategy Paper 3 - Investigating business in a competitive environment

Chemistry

Chemistry is a fascinating, challenging and hands-on subject. Chemists will have had a hand in creating every modern commodity you will ever use. The careers Chemistry can lead to are endless – not just medicine, dentistry, veterinary and nursing, but chemical research and development, chemical engineering and many more. In addition, due to the academic rigour of the subject and the analytical and problem solving skills it develops, many professions welcome candidates who have studied Chemistry.

What will I learn? A level Chemistry is designed to develop: - Theoretical and practical chemistry skills, knowledge and understanding. - Physical, inorganic, organic and practical investigation. - Deep appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of scientific method. - Competence in a variety of practical, mathematical and problem solving skills. - Understanding of how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how the sciences contribute to the success of the economy and society.

How will I be assessed? Paper 1 – Inorganic and Physical Chemistry, (2 hours 15 minutes, 35% of A level) Paper 2 – Organic Chemistry, (2 hours 15 minutes, 35% of A level) Paper 3 – Unified Chemistry, (1 hour 30 minutes, 30% of A level) Practical endorsement non-exam assessment: The teaching of practical skills is integrated with theoretical topics and assessed through written papers.

Computer Science

Studying this subject will provide you with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills for use in any engineering, science or business environment. You will learn how to problem solve effectively and understand the basic principles of a computer system. This would be an excellent subject to take as precursor to studying an engineering, mathematics, science based or IT Business course at university.

What will I learn? You will learn the principles and concepts of computer science, including abstraction, logic, algorithms, data representation and analysing problems in computational terms. You will design, programme and evaluate computer systems that solve problems, making reasoned judgements about these and presenting conclusions. The programming language we will use is Python.

How will I be assessed? Two exam papers and a non-exam assessment of a practical computing project. Exam 1 - Online exam, 2.5 hours. You will answer a series of short questions and write/adapt/extend programs in an Electronic Answer Document. Exam 2 - Written exam, 2.5 hours. The non-exam assessment appraises your ability to use the knowledge and skills gained through the course to solve or investigate a practical problem. You will be expected to follow a systematic approach to problem solving. It represents 20% of the total A level mark.

English Literature

English Literature allows you to delve further into the world of books and ideas, as well as developing a host of transferable skills. It is viewed by universities as a ‘facilitating subject’, meaning that it is recognised and respected as a challenging course of unquestioned academic merit. The choice of English Literature at A level can lead on to almost any university course and a wide variety of careers.

What will I learn? This two year course covers poetry, drama and novels. Paper 1 - Shakespeare’s Othello, a variety of ‘unseen’ poetry, F. Scott Fitzgerald’s ‘The Great Gatsby’, and an anthology of pre-1900 love poetry. Paper 2 - Post-1945 literature option, with the post-2000 novel ‘The Help’, Sylvia Plath’s collection of poetry ‘Ariel’ and Tennessee Williams’ drama ‘A Streetcar Named Desire’. There is also a teacher devised anthology of extracts from modern texts that is used to introduce you to wider ideas and literary, historical and social contexts concerning the post1945 era. Paper 3 - Coursework: you have free range in choosing two texts and devising a thematic question to write on. You develop your 2,500 word essay through a process of drafting, workshopping in lessons, and redrafting. You also learn how to use in-text citations and format a bibliography, so it really is an excellent preparation for university study, as well as an exciting intellectual endeavour in and of itself.

How will I be assessed? Two exams at the end of Year 13 and a piece of coursework.

Drama and Theatre A level Drama and Theatre at Alton School takes place in our professional Drama Studio, with fully equipped industry standard lighting. The transferable skills the subject offers are also highly valued in vocational and academic areas. Students who follow this course often go on to study Drama, Acting, Scenography and Performance Design, English Literature, Journalism, Law, Marketing, Advertising and Teaching. Even if you do not choose a career that is related to drama you will leave with valuable and desirable personal skills.

How will I be assessed? Component 1: written examination worth 40% of A level. Component 2: devise a working document alongside a devised performance. This is 30% of the A level qualification. Component 3: making theatre. A practical exploration of three plays. You will formally present one extract from each of the plays. This will be marked by the examiner. There will be a reflective report of the three plays explored alongside the performance. This component contributes 30%.

What will I learn? This course allows you to extend your understanding of theatre, the link to wider societal influences the medium has had, as well as strengthening your individual talent in the arts. We facilitate workshops with lecturers and well-known industry practitioners, which will allow you to experience diverse approaches to theatre. You will explore many styles of performance and attend exciting and varied professional theatre productions which will support your deeper knowledge of theories and principles. Throughout your studies you will establish an understanding of the industry and master the necessary skills to flourish in real-world auditions and interviews. Course content includes acting techniques, contemporary and historical script work, devising and directing, critiquing of performance, character development, and immersive theatre.

Why at Alton School? Drama at Alton School offers small, tailored classes where you are supported in advancing your talents. We offer theatre trips throughout the year ranging from fringe theatre to West End shows. Our Drama Studio offers a universal space which can be transformed into any stage configuration, allowing you to be experimental with performances.

French

French is a world language spoken by more than 200 million people. It is the international language of cooking, fashion, theatre, arts and architecture. Speaking French opens up study opportunities in renowned French universities and business schools, ranked among the top higher education institutions in Europe and the world. French is both a working language and an official language of the UN, UNESCO, NATO, the International Olympic Committee and the International Red Cross. French is a good base for learning other languages, especially Romance languages (Spanish, Italian, Portuguese and Romanian).

What will I learn? The A level specification builds on the knowledge, understanding and skills gained at GCSE. It constitutes an integrated study with a focus on language, culture and society. It fosters a range of transferable skills including communication, critical thinking, research skills and creativity, which are valuable to the individual and society.

How will I be assessed? Paper 1 - Listening, reading and writing (2.5 hours written exam, 50% of A level). Paper 2 - Writing (2 hour exam, 20% of A level). Paper 3 - Speaking (Oral exam: 21–23 minutes, 30% of A level). Individual research project.

Geography

Geography helps you to make sense of the world around you. It is hands on, it is relevant and it is fun. Geography will help you get to grips with some of the big questions which affect our world and understand the social, economic and physical forces and processes which shape and change our world.

What will I learn? There are so many ways of learning in Geography; it is very practical with opportunities to learn new skills such as modern computer based mapping (called GIS), map skills, interpreting images, fieldwork skills, presenting, role playing and debating techniques. Students are also expected to develop and demonstrate a range of geographical skills including map skills, numerical, graphical and statistical skills throughout the course. Topics include: Water and Carbon cycles, Glacial systems and Landscapes, Hazards, Global systems and Governance, Contemporary urban environments and Changing places.

How will I be assessed? Paper 1 - (Physical Geography) - written exam: 2.5 hours (40% of A level). Paper 2 - (Human Geography) - written exam: 2.5 hours (40% of A level). Paper 3 - (Geographical Investigation) - individual fieldwork investigation (20% of A level / 3000-4000 words).

Graphic Design

This qualification is ideal for those wishing to go on to study a specialism within the very wide range of Art and Design subjects at degree level, for those wishing to study a foundation course in Art and Design, or as an area of study to complement your other A levels.

What will I learn? This creative A level offers an opportunity to learn about the broad field of graphic communication. Students can expect to explore imagery and resources from around the globe, and will be involved in practical and critical activities that develop their understanding of different styles, genres and traditions. These may include, advertising, packaging design, design for print, illustration, communication graphics, branding, multimedia, motion graphics or design for film and television

History

History A level is designed to provide a detailed and skills based qualification that not only focuses on the learning of History but also develops transferable skills that are valued by employers and universities. History can help you understand why humans behaved as they did – and may again in the future. This can be vital in relations with the most complex factor in any job – your colleagues! History helps to develop the arts of oral debate and expressing a clear personal point of view – essential skills at any job or university interview.

What will I learn? You will study a range of history over a 200 year period: - British unit - Non-British unit - A 100 year thematic period study - Individual coursework unit Topics include: - Britain, c1785-c1870: Democracy, protest and reform - The Unification of Italy, c1830-70 - Rebellion and Disorder Under the Tudors, 1485-1603 - A coursework unit looking at Oliver Cromwell

How will I be assessed? Exam paper 1 - 30% 2 hours 15 minutes Exam paper 2 - 20% 1 hour 30 minutes Exam paper 3 - 30% 2 hours 15 minutes Coursework - 20%

Music Music gives soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination and life to everything. Music is a varied subject which covers a wide range of skills such as discipline, organisation, listening, interpretative, analytical and critical reflection skills. Studying music at A level will change how a student perceives and interprets music, leading to greater enjoyment and a more refined performance ability. A level Music is held in high esteem by universities and will provide a broad and satisfying experience for those who want to conclude their musical studies or want to pursue music at a higher level. Studying music at A level is essential preparation for those wishing to study it at university.

How will I be assessed? You will have plenty of performance opportunities during the course. The final submission has to be a minimum of 10 minutes performance time. This component is 35% of the final mark. You will produce two compositions - one to a set brief and one free composition of at least four and a half minutes in length combined. This component is 25% of the final mark. The compulsory unit is 40% of the final mark.

What will I learn? You will study two out of three topics in the compulsory unit (Western Classical Music); Baroque Solo Concerto, Mozart Operas and Romantic Piano Music. You will also study a further two topics from the optional areas of study. Options include Popular Music, Music for Media, Jazz, Contemporary Traditional Music, Musical Theatre and Art Music Since 1910. You will also study composition, including Bach Chorales, advanced harmony and scoring techniques. Along with your instrumental teachers, you will be assisted in preparing a final performance portfolio.

Why at Alton School? You will develop as a performer and composer, supported by experienced tutors, who are practising musicians. Small classes and fully equipped music and practice rooms give you plenty of study options. You will explore amazing music from Haydn’s Symphonies to Hamilton, complemented by thought-provoking visits, workshops and exciting opportunities to showcase your talent.

Maths and Further Maths If you enjoyed learning Maths at GCSE, why not consider taking your interest to A level? If you are an able mathematician and interested in Mathsrelated careers and courses such as Engineering, Physics, Economics or Computing, then Maths (and Further Maths) is for you. You will extend your skills in algebra, trigonometry and geometry and will be introduced to new areas of Maths such as calculus (for maximising functions), series (for calculating regular savings account balances) and exponentials (for working out how many radioactive particles remain). You will use technology to do data analysis with large data sets. You will also develop your skills in probability and discover new ideas such as the normal distribution (what’s a good IQ score), regression for making predictions and hypothesis testing. In addition, you will learn about forces, motion, moments and vectors, including calculating how long it will take a car to drive up a hill when it is pulling a caravan. If you love Maths, you ought to consider Further Maths A Level too. As well as the topics described above, you will discover what the square root of -1 is and how matrices are used in making computer animated films. You will solve differential equations to model simple harmonic motion and the population of foxes and rabbits, and prove the formula for the volume of a sphere. Depending on the options chosen, you will also discover why motorway corners are banked, how to decide whether a new drug has improved life expectancy for cancer patients and/or learn how your car’s satnav works.

What will I learn? You will study topics covering Pure Mathematics, Statistics and Mechanics. In Further Maths you will study Pure Mathematics in greater depth and Statistics, Mechanics and/or Decision Mathematics.

How will I be assessed? Maths Each of the three examination papers are equally weighted and are two hours in length. Papers 1 & 2 cover Pure Mathematics topics only. Paper 3 examines Statistics and Mechanics. Further Maths Each of the four examination papers are equally weighted and are 1.5 hours in length. Papers 1 & 2 cover Pure Mathematics topics only. Papers 3 & 4 examine two areas chosen from Statistics, Mechanics, Decision Mathematics and additional Pure Mathematics.

Photography Photographers draw on skills and experience to record, reveal and question our world. You will learn to look at the world from a different perspective. As well as developing your visual skills you will learn to write and discuss your ideas and observations. A level Photography could lead to a career filming marine life, travelling the world as a journalist, working in galleries as a curator, or as a practical artist or designer. The possibilities are endless, and photography is a pivotal part of our lives; looking out at the world and beyond. Universities like the subject as it develops analytical skills, selection skills and good visual understanding.

What will I learn? It is all about the image, and what you do with it. You will explore lighting, composition, colour, subject matter, point of view and misen-scene, image manipulation using computer programmes, photocopiers, collage and art media. Your practical work will be informed through research - learning what other photographers and artists have done and how they might help you develop your skills and knowledge.

Physical Education The sports industry is one of the fastest growing sectors of modern society. You only have to look at the rise of performance analysis in Premier League Football or at the growth of the Olympic and Paralympic movements to see that with the right qualifications and a passion for sport, there are a huge number of exciting opportunities open to talented young people. A level PE is the first step towards these opportunities. This involves analysing your own performance whilst looking for ways it could be improved. This is a particularly useful skill to have in your career as you will often have to critique your own work and identify areas for improvement.

How will I be assessed? Paper 1 - Written exam: 2 hours, 35% Paper 2 - Written exam: 2 hours, 35% These exams will include multiple choice questions, short answer questions and extended writing questions. 70% theory, 30% practical based. The practical side includes students being assessed as a performer or coach plus a written/verbal analysis of performance. This makes up 30% of the whole A level.

What will I learn? A level PE will allow you to play to your strengths and gain dynamic theoretical and practical skills for further education or work. The theory part of the course is split into three sections: - Section A: applied anatomy and physiology - Section B: skill acquisition - Section C: sport and society. Within these sections, you will look at topics including applied anatomy and physiology, skill acquisition, sport and society, exercise physiology, biomechanical movement, sport psychology, sport and society and the role of technology in physical activity and sport.

Future Careers Physical Education A level gives a good grounding in a wide range of sports disciplines. This will enable you to study sport related courses at a number of the UK’s leading universities. Possible career pathways include Match Analyst, Nutritionist, Journalist, Sports Development Officer, Physiotherapist, Diet and Fitness Instructor, PE teacher and many more.

Physics

Man interacts with his environment; a study of Physics helps us to understand the way this environment works. With a good understanding of the laws of the natural world we can harness the world’s resources, and still maintain a harmony with it. If you are curious about the world around us, A level Physics will allow you to delve deeper and develop skills which will be indispensable in the world of work.

What will I learn? The course is divided into eight Modules: 1. Measurements and their errors 2. Particles and radiation 3. Waves 4. Mechanics and materials 5. Electricity 6. Further mechanics and thermal physics 7. Fields and their consequences 8. Nuclear physics You also choose one optional topic from the following: astrophysics, medical physics, engineering physics, turning points in physics or electronics

How will I be assessed? Paper 1 - 2 hour exam on topics 1-5 Paper 2 - 2 hour exam on topics 6-8 Paper 3 - 2 hours on practical techniques and on the chosen optional topic.

Politics

To be an active citizen who engages in the wider world you need to understand the political framework. No prior knowledge of politics is required for A level Politics but a healthy interest in current political events and the news helps.

What will I learn? The course provides a balanced political education and will teach you how the British system works. The first year of the course introduces central ideas of politics – citizenship, democracy and participation, and examines them in the context of the political process within the UK. We cover a wide range of topics which explore amongst others what Politics is, the role of political parties, why political participation and democracy is important, Citizenship and the role of political participation in preserving the rights and freedoms of the individual. We will also look at the British representative system – political parties, elections, pressure groups, the major institutions of UK government and the role and the significance of Parliament. We will also be asking questions such as how powerful is the Prime Minister? and do judges deliver justice and defend freedom? The second year of the course introduces you to political ideology, historical development and current influences. We will also study political systems outside the United Kingdom such as in the United States of America and the European Union.

How will I be assessed? Paper 1 - UK Politics 2 hours Paper 2 - UK Government 2 hours Paper 3 - Comparative politics 2 hours

Psychology

The study of Psychology allows you to understand the behaviours and motivation of individuals and groups in society. The course brings together explanations from different psychological approaches and issues and debates in contemporary psychology. This course will allow you to apply your knowledge and understanding rather than just acquiring knowledge, developing your transferable skills of analysis, evaluation and critical thinking.

What will I learn? Year 1 topics include: - Social influences - Memory - Attachment - Approaches in Psychology - Psychopathology - Research methods Year 2 topics: - Biopsychology - Issues and debates - Relationships or gender - Schizophrenia or eating behaviour - Forensic psychology or addiction - Research methods

How will I be assessed? Paper 1 - Introductory topics in Psychology (2 hours, 33.3% overall) Paper 2 - Psychology in Context (2 hours, 33.3% overall) Paper 3 - Issues and Options in Psychology (2 hours, 33.3% overall)

Religious Studies

You do not need to be religious to study Religious Studies at A level. What is needed is a fascination with the big questions - ‘Why are we here?’ ‘What am I?’ ‘How should we live?’. If you are intrigued by questions such as these, then Religious Studies may be for you. It will develop your ability to think independently and critically, improve your essay skills, and help you express yourself logically and coherently – skills that are highly valued by employers and Russell Group and Oxbridge Universities. Religious Studies students often go on to study Law, Journalism, Social Work, Accountancy, Philosophy or other Humanities subjects that require a high level of critical analysis and logical thinking.

What will I learn? The course is made up of three sections: 1. Philosophy of Religion - arguments for God’s existence, identify problems with the idea of God’s existence – suffering and evil. Whether religious experience is a good basis for belief in God. 2. Ethics and Religion - how to make a moral decision, research human life and death (embryo research, abortion, euthanasia) and discuss non-human life and death. 3. Christianity - discuss whether the Bible is a reliable source of authority, look at ways of understanding God (including feminist perspectives) and discuess death and the afterlife. Other topics include christian ethics (war, status of the embryo and the environment) and discussing whether Christianity and Science are compatible.

How will I be assessed? You will be assessed by 3 x 2 hour exams.

Spanish

Having a language on your CV shows that you can master a highly academic, multi-skilled subject. If you speak a language you are much more employable. Learning Spanish gives you access to travel, work and study opportunities all over Latin America and Spain. Understanding Spanish gives you a whole new artistic world to explore and truly enhances your cultural life.

How will I be assessed? Paper 1 - Listening, reading and writing (2.5 hours written exam, 50% of A level) Aspects of Spanish-speaking society: current trends, current issues, artistic culture, political life and grammar Paper 2 - Writing (2 hour exam, 20% of A level.) One text and one film or two texts from the list set in the specification and grammar Paper 3 - Speaking (Oral exam: 21–23 minutes, 30% of A level) Individual research project

Textiles

This A level opens the door to so many possibilities; aspiring fashion designers and textile designers this way please! This course is also a great choice if you want to work with a much broader range of materials – textiles can also include study into sculpture, mixed media and jewellery/embellishment. If you like exploring materials and process this is definitely a course worth looking at.

What will I learn? You will learn skills in drawing and design, surface and texture, colour use, 2D and 3D, stitch and yarn work, fabric manipulation, paper and mixed media pieces, dying/felting/printing/batik/image transfer/ embellishment to mention a few. You will look at the history and context of textile design in a way which is personal and relevant to your own work.

What next?

If you have any questions about the next steps, just ask!

Anstey Lane, Alton, Hampshire, GU34 2NG www.altonschool.co.uk admissions@altonschool.co.uk