Sixth Form
Desborough College
Welcome to the Desborough Sixth Form Prospectus Desborough College offers an innovative curriculum and outstanding
Desborough is an Academy under the sponsorship of
We offer a broad curriculum including traditional and
combine academic excellence with a sense of community whilst
Harper CBE and Johnson Kane. This has not only given us
alternative pathways through our National Certificates, BTEC
equip and inspire them for life beyond Desborough.
country in terms of deepening and widening our academic
support, care and guidance to our sixth form students. We strive to
providing our students with a wide variety of experiences that help
Our prospectus will provide you with information about the courses we offer and also an insight into life in our school. Studying at Desborough College is a unique experience, and we look forward to having the
opportunity of working with you through the most crucial phase of your education so far.
Paul Frazer, Principal
An innovative curriculum and outstanding support, care and guidance.
The Education Fellowship, which was founded by Sir Ewan access to some of the most experienced people in the performance but also has brought connections to
universities and businesses across the United Kingdom. This is of great benefit to our students throughout the college and particularly in the sixth form.
contemporary subjects to A level as well as providing
courses and the Consortium. This offering enables us to tailor our students’ choices to their talents and their future studies and career path.
There are many opportunities for leadership within the sixth
form and all students carry out responsibilities of supervision
and mentoring throughout the college under the guidance of the Head Boy/Head Girl and their deputies and prefects.
If you would like to continue your education in a co-educational sixth form, where you are valued as an individual, challenged and rewarded for your efforts, then please come and talk to us, either at our Open Evening or by appointment with our Principal. We look forward to meeting you.
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There is a positive work ethic within the common room, directed not only at academic
achievement but also at extra-curricular activities. Desborough has always put a great deal of emphasis on sporting success, and the strong link we now have with Radley College has opened up more new and exciting opportunities, including a lecture programme of highly influential people, such as the politician Theresa May and the cricketer Andrew Strauss . Our sixth form students are very ambitious, with many aiming to join top universities
including those within the Russell Group. By joining Desborough’s sixth form you will be
giving yourself a great chance to succeed in academic and non-academic fields whilst always feeling part of a close community. James Herron, Head Boy
“ I can honestly say that my decision to stay on to the sixth form at Desborough has been one of the best I have made.”
my choice
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my future
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sixth form
The sixth form is housed in a self contained block within the
life
school. There are two common rooms available for both year groups, one of which has its own kitchen. They are a mix of quiet study areas combined with comfortable seating for
informal conversation. There is a recreation room available for students during break, lunchtimes and of course, after school.
All sixth form students have exclusive access to the mezzanine level in the library, which contains networked computers and up to date materials to assist students in choosing courses to extend their studies beyond Desborough.
We have a supervised reading room to provide support for students who are under-performing academically.
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Competitive sport is high on the agenda in our sixth form. It is encouraged and held in high esteem by both the students and the school. We play rugby, hockey, football, basketball, tennis, athletics and cricket. Students have an excellent record of
producing teams and individuals who compete at the highest level. County
honours have been achieved in all of the
above sports and we are proud to say that some of our students have become
international athletes and hockey players.
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enjoy, compete, achieve
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courses
Some of you will know from a young age exactly what it is you want to do and the way to achieve it. For others you will look to be inspired by your experiences in the curriculum to guide your choices in the sixth form and beyond.
established for over 25 years and is
respected by employers and universities.
The UCAS points from BTECs are accepted on a wide range of university courses.
BTECs suit students who achieve well in
Ask Yourself... continuous assessment, knowing that initial
GCE AS and A2 Courses • Art
• Biology
• Business Studies (Applied) • Chemistry
• Design & Technology
BTEC course will have achieved a grade C
Did I enjoy the course atsubject GCSE? or above in the equivalent at
• English Literature
• English Language/Literature
Students are more likely to be motivated and •engage Frenchin self-study if this applies.
GCSE or the BTEC level 2 course.
• Further Maths
interests and gives you the right mix of
• German
• Information & Communication
will need to achieve well in or be
above and we will have a menu of BTEC
• Photography
course examinations will accurately reflect
believe, excite and engage you. After
• Spanish
A level course will have achieved a grade
will be able to continue on to BTEC level 3
do and the way to achieve it. For others you will look to be inspired by your
experiences in the curriculum to guide
your choices in the sixth form and beyond. The Desborough personalised curriculum offers different pathways for sixth form study.
confident that the results of your end of
your ability. Students wishing to follow an B or above in the equivalent subject at GCSE.
• Business
• Construction and the built environment • Travel and Tourism
• Creative Media Production
• Music
• Performing Arts
• Applied Science
BTEC Firsts • Construction
Technology the course? Try and speak to some current sixth form students and ask them for their honest opinion.• Travel and Tourism • Mathematics entry requirements to access the courses
talents. Some of you will know from a
comfortable with examinations and feel
• Public Services
Level 2 - equivalent to one GCSE What do I want to do after Sixth Form? • Government & Politics Public Services Students should consider the requirements of their next steps whether they are in higher•education fully curriculum. • History orpersonalised the workplace. • Business
study. In this way we are able to offer a
A levels suit students who enjoy and
young age exactly what it is you want to
Level 3 - equivalent to one A level
Is the course one I haven’t studied before? • Geography some research e.g. internet, reading, etc. to try and get a “feel” and for the subject. • Geology A levels BTECs as this suits your
You maythen wishstudents to take ashould combination of If so, undertake
Each of our students has his or her
succeed in purely academic subjects. You
BTEC National Diplomas
• Sport What GCSE/BTEC grade am I likely to achieve• in this course? Economics submission. Students follow a GCSE and BTECwishing gradestoare a sound indicator of A level performance in the sixth form • IT or IT(Bus)
work can be improved before final
What do existing Sixth Formers think Some students will not have achieved theof
strengths and weaknesses, interests and
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The BTEC qualification has been
• Creative Media Production
What are the names of the individual modules that make up the full A level course? Do they sound level 2 courses for you to choose from. The • Physical Education appealing? These will helpwe build a on picture what will be faced with once the course has commenced. one year course have offerof will, we students • Physics successfully completing your studies you
• Drama and Theatre Studies
The Consortium
There are other subjects covered by the Consortium.
courses, start an apprenticeship or start work.
.
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What GCSE/BTEC grade am I likely to achieve in this course?
What do I want to do after sixth form?
indicator of A level performance in the
whether they are in higher education
GCSE and BTEC grades are a sound sixth form.
Students should consider the
requirements of their next steps or the workplace.
Students are more likely to be
What do existing sixth formers think of the course?
this applies.
form students and ask them for their
Did I enjoy the course at GCSE? motivated and engage in self-study if
Is the course one I haven’t studied before? If so, then students should undertake
some research e.g. internet, reading, etc. to try and get a “feel” for the subject.
Try and speak to some current sixth honest opinion.
What are the names of the individual modules that make up the full A level course? Do they sound appealing? These will help build a picture of what students will be faced with once the course has commenced.
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GCE AS and A2 Courses
ask yourself...
You may wish to take a combination of A levels and BTECs as this suits your interests and gives you the right mix of study. In this way we are able to offer a fully personalised curriculum.
A Levels Art
Many of the students who study Art at A level have gone on to study within the creative industry and have gained entry to a variety of courses in fine art, graphics and design areas.
Biology
If you enjoyed Biology at GCSE, here is your chance to extend your studies and further your knowledge of this exciting and challenging subject. Biology combines well with many subject options and requires a real interest in life and living things. Biology provides a foundation for a wide variety of career areas including Medicine, Sport Science, Forensic Science and environmental work
Drama & Theatre Studies
This exciting course is both practical and academic in content and approach. The focus of the course is the imaginative realisation of theatre, not just academic study. Throughout the course students will be given the opportunity to work with professional actors and directors, see a range of theatre and work with other AS/A2 students from neighbouring schools. Drama and Theatre Studies is a recognised academic qualification for entry onto Higher Education courses and the examination is accepted by all universities. Typically, previous candidates have gone on to study Acting, Theatre Studies, English, Media, Politics, Languages, Law and Business Studies. A Higher Education qualification in Drama has been welcomed in employment areas such as Law, Marketing, Public Relations, Advertising and Teaching.
Chemistry
Science courses in general are intellectually challenging and Chemistry is no exception! Many of the topics studied are highly conceptual in nature; the course is demanding and requires sustained effort from the start. You may wish to study medicine, forensic science or chemical engineering for example, where A level Chemistry is essential for admission. Even if you have still to decide which path to follow, you can be sure that this qualification is highly valued by employers demanding numeracy, problem solving and communication skills
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A Levels (continued)
Economics
The study of Economics provides students with a range of transferable skills and an intellectual toolkit, which enables them to explain why the world is as it is. An understanding of economic issues has arguably become an essential requirement for the modern citizen. Economics is an academic subject which is highly regarded by universities and employers. Economists are employed in a wide variety of roles including; financial services, government, industry and academia. According to the latest evidence Economics graduates are amongst the highest paid members of the workforce and have very low rates of unemployment. The study of Economics will always be a good investment for students.
English Literature
Applied Business
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Business Studies is about understanding the world in which we live and work. It is relevant to all aspects of working life, either as an owner, employer or employee. Students who are successful on this course may continue their studies at university in related areas such as Business, Management and HR. A Business Studies A level shows you are serious about starting a career in business. Whether you are aiming for a high-flying corporate role or your own successful small enterprise, the A level Business Studies course is the place to start.
The study of English Literature holds a unique place in the curriculum and students of A level English are highly valued by all established universities. A level English is the portal through which many famous people have entered the worlds of journalism and media. Indeed, former students of our English department currently grace our television screens as special correspondents for the BBC, reporting from the world’s trouble spots.
Geography
Geographers are highly sought after in the business world due to the unique nature of the subject, which prepares students for many jobs such as project management or Town and Country planning. In a recent survey by the organisation ‘Prospect,’ it was discovered that 70% of Geography graduates were employed on their chosen career path within six months of graduating. Geography is a subject that teaches students a wide-range of useful skills for the marketplace. Employers value the extensive computer, research and analytical abilities that geography students bring to work as employees.
Geology
Also called Earth Science, Geology develops many skills that are in great demand nowadays. Geology is an observational, interpretive science that makes use of almost all other areas of study and usefully applies them. Studying it results in a breadth of knowledge that few other subjects can match – a fact that does not go unnoticed by admissions tutors. Because of its broad base, people qualified in the subject can and do turn their hand, not only to the growing need for natural resource exploration and discovery, but also to a variety of careers relating to the future of our environment It has been designed to build on knowledge and understanding of GCSE Science and no prior knowledge of Geology is required.
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Psychology
A Levels (continued)
Government & Politics
This is an interesting and relevant subject, which is well regarded by both the more established and newer universities. It combines well with any humanities subject, and also works well as a fourth subject for scientists. Government and Politics opens up careers in the police, journalism, public relations, national and local government. Students may also find careers in international relations or the charity arena.
History
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This is a traditional and very highly regarded academic discipline, which combines well with Politics and English. It is much enjoyed by the vast majority of students who take it. Studying History can lead to careers in traditional areas including; law, journalism, the Civil Service, research, teaching and local government. Additionally students may find careers in Business and the Service sector.
Psychology specification A provides students with a broad introduction to Psychology as a science. The emphasis is on applying knowledge and understanding and developing the skills of analysis, evaluation and critical thinking. Psychology provides a foundation for a wide range of careers including; top and mid level management and administration, sales, social work, other management occupations, labourrelations, personnel and training, administrative positions, business services, insurance and marketing.
If you are interested in languages and communication, and you enjoy learning about other cultures and ways of life, then a modern foreign language course could be suitable for you. Similarly, if you are interested in the business world, in travel or tourism, in literature, or in journalism and the media, then you are also likely to find the course appropriate. There are a number of options in the course where you can choose your topic or question to suit your interests. Whether you want to use language for work, for further study, training, or for leisure, this course will equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge.
ICT
Photography
The course is designed for students who wish to go on to higher education or to the world of work, where understanding how ICT can be used in society and organisations, and the implications of its use, will be a valuable asset. There are very few careers that do not benefit from a sound understanding of the potential of ICT. As an employee at all levels in an organisation, ICT will have an important role to play. The workers, leaders and entrepreneurs of tomorrow will need to be competent ICT practitioners.
Mathematics
The study of Mathematics enhances problem-solving skills which are much prized in higher education and by employers. It can lead to a wide range of degree courses and careers, while complementing other A levels e.g. Science, Geography and Economics. Statistically, those with A level Mathematics earn on average 10% more than the rest of the population.
Photography students from Desborough have progressed on to many exciting roles in their chosen profession, including camera operatives or film editors within the film industry. Many photography students go on to be self-employed photographers. They have contracts with advertising agencies, magazine publishers, or with other businesses to deliver specific film projects, whilst others operate portrait studios or provide photographs to stock-photo agencies. Salaried photographers very often find positions within portrait or commercial studios, or at newspapers, magazines and advertising agencies.
Physical Education
Students who have a real interest in sport and related areas will find the course stimulating. The course has many different aspects to it and can open many doors to sports related further study and careers. This course will benefit students who may wish to follow courses at University in Sports Science, Physiotherapy, Sports Psychology as well as coaching and teaching.
Physics
Physics is an ideal subject for those who enjoyed Physics at GCSE and wish to develop their understanding further. It is a very mathematical discipline and a combination of Physics and Maths A levels complement each other very well with much of the material taught being common to both subjects. If you want to be an Engineer or Pilot you need Physics. Qualified Physicists design computer games, monitor the environment, invent or develop lifesaving medical equipment and much more. Go to www.physics.org and see if it is the subject for you.
Modern Foreign Languages
French, German, Spanish A Level Modern Foreign Languages (MFL) courses offer an advanced level of language study and are firmly rooted in the language, culture and contemporary affairs of the target language countries, providing an opportunity to gain a high level of understanding and fluency in topics chosen to reflect the concerns of young people.
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BTEC Courses
BTEC National Diplomas BTEC National in Business
BTEC National in Creative Media
BTEC National in Construction and the Built Environment
BTEC National in Travel & Tourism
• The specification is designed to appeal to both full-time learners interested in a career in business and to those who already have experience of working in the sector. • The four core units in the subsidiary diploma give learners an introduction to and understanding of the business environment, management of resources, marketing and communication – all fundamental to the success of business organisations. • The specification also addresses sector needs and skills gaps such as in the finance, administration and management areas. • Learners can focus on their career aspirations or work area within the specification in which there are six specialist pathways consisting of Finance, Management, Marketing, Law, Administration, and Human Resources.
The qualification will: • Provide opportunities for learners and employees to achieve a nationally recognised Level 3 vocationallyspecific construction, civil engineering or building services qualification. • Provide progression for learners who have achieved an appropriate qualification. • Provide education, training and the application of knowledge in technical areas that are directly relevant to the changing needs of construction, planning and the built environment employees, employers and professions. • Provide learners with enhanced knowledge and understanding of the key issues of health, safety and welfare in the construction, planning and built environment industries. • Provide learners with enhanced knowledge and understanding of the key issues of sustainability in the construction, planning and built environment industries.
• To give learners the opportunity to gain an understanding of employment opportunities, job requirements and working practices in the media sector. • To enable learners to start building the technical skills and knowledge relevant to an industry (or industries) in the media sector. • To provide a qualification that will enable progression to further study, training or employment. • To enable learners to make informed choices with regard to a career in the media sector. • To develop media technology skills that may be applicable in other work situations or other qualifications (such as a Higher National in Art and Design).
BTEC National in Information Technology
• BTEC Level 3 in IT qualification is designed to provide learners with realistic, work based scenarios and projects. Looking at computer systems, information systems, networks, software design and e-commerce to name but a few. • BTEC Level 3 in IT qualification can form the technical certificate component of apprenticeships and all attract UCAS points that equate to similar-sized general qualifications. • This specification provides content and structures that help learners to acquire the skills and knowledge needed to work as professionals in the IT sector.
• The travel and tourism sector continues to grow at a rapid pace, with the amount of travel undertaken by individuals for both leisure and business purposes continuing to increase. • An expansion in the short-break market has led to a growth of regional airports in the UK and across Europe and a rise in the number of new hospitality enterprises including health spas and boutique hotels. This rapid expansion has led to huge demand for a more flexibly skilled workforce. • Specific skills gaps identified in the emerging Sector Qualification Strategy (SQS) for Travel and Tourism include customer service skills, destination geography, knowledge of working with children, and business skills. These BTEC level 3 qualifications in Travel and Tourism seek to address these areas. • These qualifications have been designed to provide an allround introduction to the travel and tourism sector for those who wish to further their careers in one of its many connected industries, including retail travel, visitor attractions, accommodation, transport and tour operations.
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Level 3 BTEC Level 3 Applied Science
The main purpose of the course is to allow learners to develop the core specialist knowledge, understanding and skills required by the Applied Science sector. It provides a basis for progression into a broad range of roles when supported by relevant qualifications at level 2, such as GCSE English and mathematics, and/or at level 3, such as A levels, e.g. psychology, or another BTEC Level 3, e.g. sport, or IT. The BTEC Level 3 in Applied Science qualification can form the technical certificate component of apprenticeships and all attract UCAS points that equate to similar-sized general qualifications. The course is a highly respected route for those who wish to move into employment within the science sector, either directly or following further study.
BTEC Level 3 National Performing Arts
The BTEC Level 3 National Performing Arts is a vocational qualification that provides learners with a broad foundation of skills and knowledge in performing arts. Students are presented with a variety of pathways through the course, focusing on aspects acting, physical theatre, musical theatre and dance. The qualification provides learners with the opportunity to develop a range of performance skills and techniques, alongside personal skills and attributes appropriate to employment in the performing arts industry and in working life. The Subsidiary Diploma qualification is broadly equivalent to one A Level and equates to the same UCAS points.
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Enrichment
We are proud to say that we try to educate the whole student. We take our pastoral responsibilities seriously and we believe that this is where enrichment plays a key role. Our year 12 students are fully involved in the Enrichment Programme which offers them the opportunity to supplement their studies and also encourages personal development. Our sixth form choir performs locally, our rugby and football programme is one of the strongest in the borough, we have regular art exhibitions, a comprehensive performing arts calendar and our sixth form academic society meets termly. We have a team of dedicated tutors who regularly run study groups, public speaking competitions and 1-1 support sessions. We have recently introduced an Autumn Lecture Series whose speakers have included; Rory Tapner (CEO, Coutts Bank), Charlie Mayfield (CEO John Lewis), BBC film producer, John Bridcut and England cricketer, Andrew Strauss. Our students also take advantage of the partnership with Radley College through joint conferences, drama workshops and pre-season training camps. We are also one of the few schools with a dedicated 'Head of Student Services' who runs a comprehensive 'life-skills' programme and provides full-time careers advice.
Sixth Form entry requirements
Whilst we endeavour to satisfy your course selection the following entry requirements are set in order to ensure the greatest chance of success for our students and their future prospects in higher education or employment. The pathway chosen is subject to staff approval, entry requirements are as follows:
A Level Pathway
Most students will study four AS subjects in Year 12 and continue with three of those subjects in Year 13. To gain entry the number of GCSE B grades you achieve will be greater or equal to the number of C grades plus a minimum of Grade C in English and Mathematics. A minimum of ‘D’ grades will be required at the end of the AS year in order to progress to Year 13.
Level 3 Applied Pathway
Students opting for this pathway will take three or four vocational options over two years. To gain entry the number of GCSE C grades, or their equivalents, you achieve will be greater or equal to the number of D grades plus a minimum of grade D in English and Mathematics. •You must follow an English/Mathematics course (equivalent to GCSE) if you do not have at least grade C in these subjects.
Level 3 Mixed Pathway (A levels and BTECs)
It is possible to study both A Levels and BTEC level 3 courses in order to fully personalise the curriculum for you. Students would normally be expected to achieve the entrance grades for A levels, however if you have a particular talent in one subject there may be the opportunity for you to study that A level with a slightly lower APS.
Level 2 Applied Pathway
If you have fallen short of the entry requirements for either the A level or the Applied Pathway a one year Level 2 Pathway option is available. This pathway will contain a range of BTECs as well as English and Mathematics GCSE. After completion of this year, you may have achieved the requirements for entry onto the Level 3 Applied Pathway.
90%
Investing in the future
Around 90% of our Year 13 students go on to continue their studies at University. We provide individual assistance to our students to guide them through their UCAS application forms starting in Year 12. We have a great deal of expertise in the university application process, including Oxbridge entrance. In addition, students have the opportunity to listen to visiting speakers, attend conferences and attend a UCAS information evening at Desborough with their parents. We also assist those students seeking employment with careers advice, CV writing and interview technique.
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enjoy, compete, achieve
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Desborough College Shoppenhangers Road Maidenhead Berkshire SL6 2QB T: 01628 634505 info@desborough.org.uk sixformhotline@desborough-college.net
an
Education Fellowship Academy
Going beyond the expected
Principal: Paul Frazer BA (Hons)
www.desborough.org.uk
TM