A Guide to A Level Subject Choices

New Directions 2022 Guide to A Level subject choices

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Programme for the evening 6.30pm

Registration and drinks.

7.00pm

Talk by the Headmaster, Mr Simon Williams and Head of Sixth Form, Mr Bill Baker, in the Sports Hall.

7.40-9.30pm

Heads of Department available in subject areas for consultation. Some will give talks at specific times (for timings see opposite page and for map of site see overleaf).

Our Head of Careers and Higher Education (HE), Dr Kirsty Verney and other members of the Sixth Form team will be available in Ramshill Sixth Form Centre.

Tea and coffee will also be available in Ramshill all evening.

Subject

Head of Faculty/ Department

Venue

Times of talks

Mrs C Unsworth-Hughes

Room 10

Drop in

Mr D Nighy

Room 3

7.45 & 8.25

Mr T Ostersen

Room 18

8.05 & 9.05

Mrs K Shaw

Room 12

7.45† & 8.45†

History

Mrs H Jolliffe

Room 2

8.25 & 8.45

Sports Science

Mrs L Taylor

Room 20

7.45 & 8.45

New College English Geography Religious Studies (R&P) Modern Languages

Old College Drama

Miss S Carty

Assembly Hall

Drop in

Music

Mrs H Purchase Mr P Cree

Room 43

7.45 & 8.25

ICT and Art Block Art Computing

Mr T Strange

Room 61

Drop in

Mrs K McCathie

Room 65

Drop in

Goodfield Building Design & Technology

Mr S Edington

Room 54

Drop in

Mathematics and Further Mathematics

Mrs T Greenaway

Room 91

8.05* & 8.45*

Science Building Physics Chemistry Biology

Mr M Kelly

Room 303

8.05 & 9.05

Mr D Dunster

Room 305

7.45 & 8.25

Ms M Westwood

Room 311

8.05 & 8.45

Ramshill Sixth Form Centre Mr J Hegan

Room 74 (upstairs)

Drop in

Mr M Hill

Baker’s Cafe

7.45, 8.05 & 8.45 (Drop in - Room 81)

Mr R West

Baker’s Cafe

8.25 & 9.05 (Drop in - Room 81)

Politics

Mr P Cheshire

Garden Room

8.05 & 8.45 (Drop in - Room 80)

Psychology

Dr G Glasspool

Garden Room

7.45, 8.25 & 9.05 (Drop in - Room 82)

Mr M Hill

Room 83

9.05

Mr A Rowley

Ramshill Conservatory

Drop in

Latin/Ancient History Economics Business

Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) DW, DofE, Ten Tors, CCF, SAC, World Challenge

In some cases, other members of departmental staff will be available for informal conversations about their subject in a nearby room. * A Further Mathematics presentation will follow each Mathematics presentation but there will be a slight pause to allow people interested in only Mathematics to leave. † Dr A Broomfield (Head of German), Mrs N Sparks (Head of French) and Mrs A Giffin (Head of Spanish) will also be available to talk about their respective subjects alongside Mrs Shaw (Head of Languages Faculty).

Town Centre & Train Station

Development Office Garden Room

Ramshill Sixth Form Centre

Main E Baker’s Cafe

Sports Hall

ICT

/A r

t

D&T Goodfield Maths Building Music School

The Pound

Dining Hall School Office

Clock Tower Old College Drama

P

Headmaster’s Lawn

Assembly Hall

Lib

rar y

Old College 040 - 046

New College N1 - N21

Science Building 301 - 312

Ramshill 72 - 83

Goodfield D&T: G51 - G54 Mathematics: G91 - G99

ICT 63 - 67

Music School M47 - M50

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Art 60 - 62

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Quiet Garden

Science Building

L T

G

Pavili

ChurchersCollege.com

A3

Entrance

New College

Heath Harrison House Medical & Wellbeing Centre

Lecture Theatre MUGA

Gym

ion

All Weather Pitch (Tennis Courts)

Netball court

Netball court

Swimming Pool

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CCF HQ

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What next?

As you come to the end of your GCSEs, it’s important to start thinking about the future. What subjects are you going to study in the Sixth Form? Even if you already know what you want to do after GCSEs then it is a good idea to check that you have considered all the relevant factors when making your decision.

How many subjects do you need to choose for the Sixth Form?

Most students will follow three subjects to A Level, though some students, particularly those doing Further Mathematics, will choose four. Universities make their offers based on predictions in three subjects.

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How do you choose your A Levels?

Choose subjects you will enjoy

A Levels are hard enough without having to knuckle down to a subject you only chose because it will look good on a UCAS application. Ask yourself the question – is it the subject I like or the teacher? Remember, you may have different teachers in the Sixth Form and for most subjects you are likely to have two teachers.

Choose subjects you will be good at

careers or courses specify more than one or two subjects within their overall requirements.

Sixth Form Open Evening

This will give you the opportunity to hear Heads of Department talking about their subjects, which you may be considering.

If you would like further conversations about your subject choices, please do get in touch and we can give you further guidance.

For many careers or courses, grades matter more than subjects. Plus, it is difficult to stay motivated if you are continually struggling, no matter how hard you work.

Check your combination of subjects

Ensure that the combination of subjects you choose meets the requirements of any careers or courses that you are considering.

You can do this and still keep your options open – very few

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“I know I have made lifelong friends and have built the strongest platform to start my next chapter, which I am so thankful for.”

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Sixth Form Pathways Sixth Form • EPQ • Ink articles • CCALS & Grill Lecture • Model United Nations • Tycoon Programme • Debating • University Admissions Preparation • Critical Thinking Programme

Careers & Employability • Career Workshops, Networking Events and Talks • Interview Coaching • CV and Cover Letter Writing • Advanced Employability Package in Enrichment • Trips and Visits • Work Experience and Work Shadowing Support • Profesional Pathways support for all Careers

Oxbridge • Sixth Form Oxbridge Programme • Application Support • Interview Preparation • Specialised Subject Support

Mathematics • Maths Challenges and Olympiad Challenges • Alan Turing Cryptography Competition • Sixth Form Team Challenges

Science • Cambridge Chemistry Challenge for the Lower Sixth • Biology Olympiad • Chemistry Olympiad • Physics Olympiad • SATRO Challenges • STEAM Club • Senior Physics Challenge • STEAM lectures

Technology • Lockheed Martin Code Quest • Triumph Design Awards • Cyber Code Quest • Arkwright Scholarship Scheme • STEAM club • Formula 24+ Greenpower • Smallpiece Trust Programme

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“Pupils achieve notable successes in a range of competitions; including Mathematical and Science Olympiads.”

ISI Inspection

Humanities • Lunchtime discussions of set texts in Latin & Ancient History • GCSE Greek • The Great Debate • Royal Geographical Society and Geographical Association Membership • ‘Brain Day’• Elephants on Acid • Senior Philosophical Society • Student Investor • Dragons’ Den – experience life as a Venture Capitalist • Bank of England Essay Competition

Modern Languages • Modern Languages Poetry and Performance Evening • Access to ML Assistants • ML film library • Joutes Oratoires Sixth Form French Debating Competition • Stephen Spender Poetry Translation Competition • UK Linguistics Olympiad • UK German Connection Trip

Performing Arts • Post-Grade 8 Performance Diploma • Theatre Visitors • Music • AS Music Technology • Senior Production • Higher Grades (6 to 8) ABRSM Music Theory • ABRSM Performance • Drama Productions • Theory and Analysis Diploma • LAMDA • Senior Cabaret Evening • Music Enrichment

Art & Design • Life Drawing • Gallery Visits • Work Exhibits inside & outside Churcher’s College • Digital Photography • Advanced drawing workshops • The Saatchi Gallery Art Prize for Schools Competition • Portfolio support • Art Society

English • Tower Poetry Competition

• LitSoc • Theatre Visits • Additional English sessions looking at longer texts

Sports Science • Strength and Conditioning Programmes for Elite Performers • Elite Coaching across a range of sports • Video Analysis Systems • Churcher’s Sports Injury Clinic

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When do I have to decide?

You make your provisional free choice of subjects in late November. Mrs Sarah Cockerill, Director of Studies, constructs the options blocks based on these initial choices. You may amend your initial choices in March, using the options blocks, and again before study leave for your GCSE exams in May. There is a final opportunity to change your subject choice after GCSE results. Again, this will need to fit the options blocks. If you are considering making any changes after receiving your GCSE results, you should email Mr Ian Knowles before the beginning of term to let him know what you are thinking. On the first day of the Lower Sixth you will be able to discuss this with Heads of Department and Dr Verney.

External candidates indicate their choices at interview and confirm them once again following GCSE results.

However, the school is happy to receive notification of changes at any time and we would encourage external candidates to keep in touch with us. As well as seeking advice from their current

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school, external candidates can ask us for guidance too.

Think about…

What studying the subject really involves

There can be big differences between GCSE and A Level. Look carefully at the syllabus, even if it’s a subject you have already studied, and look at the way it’s taught and assessed. With new subjects, check whether they share any similarities with other subjects or with extra-curricular activities you enjoy. Consider the essay load or the non-examined assessment requirements for practical subjects.

Whether the syllabus plays to your strengths

Talk to your current teachers for an honest, informed assessment of your potential in individual subjects.

What’s essential, what’s preferred and what’s useful for university courses Bear in mind that some careers and courses need particular A Levels and increasingly

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universities are looking back to GCSE results when making their offers. Some courses (such as Medicine) might specify a certain number of 8 or 9 grades at GCSE. Many courses specify a Mathematics and/or English requirement: https://www.theuniguide.co.uk/ advice/gcse-choices-university/ how-important-are-my-gcsegrades

Popular Course Requirements Degree Course

Possible Requirements*

Architecture

Most courses require an art portfolio.

Art Foundation courses

Art A Level plus a portfolio. Some institutions may accept D&T, depending on the course. Check with the colleges you are interested in.

Biology

Biology and another science (normally Chemistry) or Mathematics.

Chemistry

Chemistry and Mathematics and/or another science.

Dentistry

Chemistry plus Biology usually required. Check individual institutions.

Economics

Many universities require Mathematics A Level – please check carefully.

Engineering

Mathematics and Physics Mathematics and Chemistry for Chemical Engineering

Law

Any but preferably “academic” – high grades will generally be necessary.

Medicine

Chemistry, usually Biology. May not accept Mathematics and Further Mathematics, or other subjects which strongly overlap, as two subjects.

Natural Sciences

Mathematics required at most institutions - check courses carefully as they vary.

Physiotherapy

One science – usually Biology. Some universities ask for TWO sciences.

Psychology

A science subject is usually required.

Sports Science

Some universities require Biology and another science.

Veterinary Science

Chemistry and one or two other sciences. Like Medicine, Vet Schools will not accept subjects which overlap as two subjects e.g. Mathematics and Further Mathematics

A good website with more information may be found at

www.targetcareers.co.uk/careers-advice/a-level-choices/315491-what-a-level-subjects-should-i-take *Please check with each university as this varies between universities and between years.

Speak to Dr Verney if you have questions.

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How do I know what is needed for different courses?

To check requirements of “Whoever you are and wherever you individual university courses you come from, if you have the ability, the enthusiasm and the motivation, then can go to www.ucas.com or to we want to hear from you.” the course page on the individual Prof Alison Richard, Vice Chancellor, university’s website.

Cambridge University

Applying to Oxford and Cambridge

We all have stereotypical impressions of Oxford and Cambridge Universities.

Dreaming spires, neatlymanicured lawns and medieval colleges. Many people are deterred from applying because they think that they’re not good enough or they won’t fit in. However, while it is true that competition for places is strong, it is also the case that both universities are vibrant communities where you’ll find people who are into art, music, sport, going out, staying in, working hard and playing hard.

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Oxford and Cambridge are, above all else, looking for students with academic potential. Obviously good GCSE results are important and you’ll need top grades in your chosen A Level subjects.

However, both universities want well-rounded, interesting people so interviews and, in many cases, aptitude tests form part of the application process.

Studying at Oxford or Cambridge is immensely rewarding. You’ll be taught by world-leading experts in your subject area.

Often your tutor will be the person who literally ‘wrote the book’ or ‘proved the theorem’

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you’re studying! The unique supervision/tutorial system means that you will have weekly personal tuition in your College.

It makes for a challenging and enjoyable experience.

It pays to think ahead, so, if you think you may be interested in either Oxford or Cambridge, do talk to your subject teachers, or Dr Verney, who will be able to offer specific advice and guidance.

Of course, Oxbridge, or indeed university is not for everyone; although the vast majority of students at Churcher’s apply though UCAS we have a small but increasing number looking at higher apprenticeships and employment as alternative routes.

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Testimonials Students new to Churcher’s at Sixth Form

Having joined Churcher’s from PGS at such an uncertain time, my first day being in September 2020 amid a pandemic, I was apprehensive about the change and challenges I would face. Luckily, I was very quickly shown that despite the adversity I had made absolutely the right decision to come here. Everyone I met made sure to help me feel at home and once I’d got my head around the layout of my lessons, I could well have been here from the beginning. I greatly enjoy my rugby, with the reputation of the Churcher’s 1st XV having helped to sway my decision back in 5th year, and I felt like I was part of a well-run program that would help me to develop as both an individual and as part of the team. In the future, I’m looking to study History at degree level as I’ve always had an interest in how the past might both inform and instruct us moving forward, and the parallels that can be drawn between the two.

I’m lucky enough here at Churcher’s to be around a department that takes the time to go above and beyond for us, providing lots of extra enrichment around the subject.

At A Level I am studying Biology, Psychology and Geography. Before I joined Churcher’s College Sixth Form I was at Alton School. I have participated in extra-curricular activities at Churcher’s, such as the gruelling Devizes to Westminster Canoe Marathon and I am also a member of the hockey team. These things really helped me make friends from the moment I joined the school, and everyone was very welcoming.

What I love about the Sixth Form is how much of a community there is but most importantly I love the toast and hot chocolate that is offered at break time.

Isla Craig-Wood

Charlie Drummond

Jamie Stephenson

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I joined Churcher’s College in the Lower Sixth and I am studying History, Economics and Biology. I have really enjoyed my time here, from both an academic and extracurricular perspective the Sixth Form has so much to offer. My teachers are always very encouraging, and I have thoroughly enjoyed all of my A Levels so far. I want to study Liberal Arts at Exeter and I think that Churcher’s is the perfect place to help me achieve the grades that I need to get in. There are so many opportunities to get a wider knowledge of any subject you choose to study, for example I attended a lecture on Napoleon delivered by Professor David Andress which helped me deepen my understanding of the subject. Outside of the classroom, Churcher’s have a wide variety of activities that anyone can get involved with. I am captain of the First XV rugby team, training is always high level and the games very competitive.

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I joined Churcher’s from Alton School, and the social environment soon helped me to settle in well and make new friends. I study Drama, Business and Psychology; I enjoy all my subjects and hope to continue my study of Psychology at university. I have really enjoyed getting involved in the backstage side of drama productions, where I have filmed performances so that they can be analysed and improved. I have also enjoyed being a part of the netball squad which has helped me get to know even more students. I Like the extra freedom that comes with Sixth Form study, and the opportunities I have to direct my own time if not in lessons.

I joined Churcher’s College for Sixth Form after being at Prior’s Field school. I am studying Art, Psychology and Business. After my A Levels I plan to go to university to study Business and Management.

I have thoroughly enjoyed my experience at Churcher’s so far, I love being part of netball club and socialising in the common room at break. I was understandably nervous about joining, but Ramshill is a nice community to be a part of and I soon settled in to new friendship groups.

Charlotte Sasse

Charlotte Prince

Before coming to Churcher’s College I was homeschooled. I really enjoyed coming into a new environment and meeting new people. I was struck by how friendly the Sixth Form was and it is still relatively small so it has a nice feel. Ramshill is a nice old building with a lovely garden and this means everyone can be in one space. After A Levels in Mathematics, Physics and Business I hope to go to university to study Aerospace Engineering. My interest in Physics saw me co-found PhysSoc, which I really enjoy. I play cricket for the school and in this, my final year, I am also going to take up hockey. I did Ten Tors, enjoy playing in the football club after school on a Tuesday and have participated in Rock School on a Saturday morning.

The staff are all very supportive, and on one occasion I spoke to a Physics teacher for about an hour outside the school day on an aspect of the subject that fascinated me.

George Bliss

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Testimonials Students continuing studies at Churcher’s

My A Levels are Biology, Psychology and Sports Science, and I am hoping to do Zoology or another animal related degree at university. I really enjoyed the Biology field trip to West Wittering, and am always grateful for the support that is on offer in each subject. I also appreciate the study periods in the school day when I can get some self-directed work done. I play tennis and am a member of the 2nd XI hockey team. I’ve also taken part in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and have achieved grade 5 piano. The daily toast in Ramshill is a big highlight, as is the sociable and friendly atmosphere.

Hannah Zoltowski

I joined Churcher’s College in Reception 14 years ago and I am currently studying Drama, Psychology and Business A Level.

I am also studying for my Lamda Gold medal and have enjoyed this extra-curricula activity since the first year. During the pandemic as part of the Community Action Service I began corresponding with some of the elderly residents at Gloucester Court in Petersfield to help them feel less isolated and I have enjoyed the experience so much we have continued to correspond bringing mutual joy and support. I am very proud to have been appointed Deputy House Captain in my final year supporting the younger ‘Grenville students’ in their Churcher’s journey.

I hope to be successful in joining the Police as part of the ‘Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship’ programme and Churcher’s has been extremely supportive of this aspiration, arranging for an exserving Police Officer to meet with me providing valuable support for my application. My experience in Sixth Form has enabled me to focus on my aspirations whilst having fun along the way!

Amber Wakeland

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I have been at Churcher’s since the first year and have enjoyed my experience throughout the school but the Sixth Form has definitely been the highlight, despite the challenges of the pandemic. I study Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry A Levels and did an AS in Spanish last year, all of which I thoroughly enjoy, and which have led me to want to study Engineering at university.

In the Lower Sixth, I completed the school-run replacement events for Ten Tors (an event usually held in Dartmoor involving walking 45 miles in less than 36 hours) and the Devizes to Westminster canoe marathon, both of which were gruelling but extremely rewarding. I captained the tennis team last summer and have also enjoyed getting back into playing rugby fixtures, having missed out last year. I also started taking piano lessons at school last year for my Gold DofE, which has been very enjoyable. As part of the Army section of the CCF I went on a summer camp which was great fun.

Matt Hodges

I am currently studying Biology, Chemistry and History at A Level with the intention to continue my History studies at university, hopefully at Oxford University.

In my role as Deputy Captain of College, and therefore Chair of the School Council, I have been given the opportunity to voice the opinions of the pupils in meetings with the Headmaster. The Sixth Form has allowed me to participate in various clubs and societies that help further my knowledge of my courses, and the world today. I am a member of the Model United Nations, which has helped fuel my love of debate, opening me up to the world of international relations. These interests have progressed through my involvement in the Debate Club and the History Society. Being a part of Churcher’s Sixth Form has broadened my experiences, and my horizons.

Alongside my lessons I really enjoy the extra-curricular activities I am involved with, chiefly music. I am a member of the choir, orchestra and string quartet, playing the cello to grade 8. I play all three major sports, rugby, hockey and cricket, participate in the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme and am also a Petty Officer in the Naval section of the CCF. After studying History, Business and Psychology at A Level I hope to go on to study Psychology at university. I like the fact that Ramshill is at the end of the school site so is separate from the rest of the school, and this gives it more of a college feel. It’s a very social environment, enhanced by the provision of toast at break time.

I have enjoyed being a part of theatre productions throughout my time in the school. My favourite was Les Misérables as it was a really big production with a huge cast.

I am currently looking forward to taking part in ‘1722’, a play to mark the school’s tercentenary, which we celebrate this academic year. I hope to have a gap year after A Level exams in Biology, Chemistry and Geography, and will probably apply to university to study Geography after that. I like the fact that the school is busy; as well as drama I play rugby, hockey and cricket and am a ‘Science Uncle’, helping in a second year Biology class. Ramshill is a very inclusive place with a nice atmosphere.

Henry Tasker

Mattie Wagstaff

Amy Gaisford

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2021 A Level Results A* - A 70.7% A* - B 91.5%

Frequently asked questions Can I do subjects which I haven’t studied at GCSE?

Some subjects, like Psychology, Business, Economics or Politics are new for everyone in the Sixth Form.

Occasionally it is possible to take another subject that you dropped before GCSE. If you are considering moving to Churcher’s for A Levels discuss this with Mr Bill Baker, Head of Sixth Form, when you visit the school.

What about work experience?

If you know what you want to do at university, then investigate possible work experience requirements. It is ESSENTIAL for Medicine, Vet Science, Teaching, Midwifery, Nursing, Physiotherapy and other vocational courses. It can also be helpful for Engineering, Law, Social Work, Psychology and other healthcare fields.

Generally, work experience is undertaken by Churcher’s students in the holidays during and at the end of the Lower Sixth. Dr Verney can give you guidance and help with making contacts.

I need a subject which I find hard and don’t enjoy to enter the career I wish to follow. What should I do?

This is a tough one, but if you really have no aptitude for a subject, then you have to ask yourself if a career where it features strongly is right for you. On the other hand, if you have underachieved in this subject because you haven’t worked hard, then a lot depends on how much you want to take up this career. If it is really what you want to do then maybe you will be motivated to put in the effort needed. It’s important to be honest with yourself.

get older. Keeping your options open is a good idea but that doesn’t mean ignoring career choice altogether. It’s important to think about the kinds of areas that might appeal and check that your A Level choices don’t rule them out.

I want to go to university after A Levels but I am undecided about both degree subject and possible careers later. Is it OK to choose A Levels when I am so uncertain about my future plans?

You certainly don’t need to choose a career right now and many people who have a career in mind at this time find their ideas change as they

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Useful resources

University prospectuses - See each university website to find online www.ucas.com – For information on higher education entry requirements and links to university websites www.theuniguide.co.uk - A slightly more user-friendly university course search tool than ucas.com www.nationalcareers.service.gov.uk - Careers advice and information on a wide range of jobs, training course resources and funding

Staff contact details Kirsty Verney, Assistant Head of Sixth Form (Careers and HE) kverney@churcherscollege.com Ian Knowles, Deputy Head (Academic) iknowles@churcherscollege.com Bill Baker, Head of Sixth Form wbaker@churcherscollege.com Nicola Plewes, Deputy Head of Sixth Form (Pastoral) nplewes@churcherscollege.com Martin Hill, Deputy Head of Sixth Form (Academic) mhill@churcherscollege.com

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