Desborough College
Sixth Form Prospectus
Welcome to the Desborough Sixth Form Prospectus Desborough College offers an innovative curriculum and outstanding support, care and guidance to our Sixth Form students. Our Sixth Form continues to attract more young people, boys and girls, from Maidenhead and beyond as word spreads about the excellent teaching the Sixth Formers experience here. 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
Desborough is an academy under the sponsorship of The Education Fellowship, which was founded in 2012 to deliver an excellent education to students of all backgrounds.
“ The Sixth Form students have high aspirations and believe they are being well prepared for life after school� Ofsted 2014
The Education Fellowship
TM
Educational Excellence
“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 my future 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. This partnership has led to 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.
sixth form life
“ Students comment on the privileges of the Sixth Form; they are given more responsibilities both with the prefect system and the Student Voice Forum. They also praise provision of a quiet study area, the internal careers fair and the ‘open door’ policy by careers and guidance teachers” Ofsted 2014
Academic, artistic, sporting and personal enrichment We are proud to say that we educate the whole student. We take our pastoral responsibilities very seriously and we believe that this is where enrichment plays a key role. There is an emphasis on personal development
and leadership, with our core values of motivation, pride, care, responsibility and respect underpinning our approach to learning and achievement. Our Sixth Form leadership team and our dedicated tutors all play a key role in valuing and enriching every student.
We have a strong tradition of sporting excellence and success in a range of different sports. Our fixture list includes local grammar and independent schools, against whom we have always achieved impressive results. Many of our students achieve representative honours at different levels.
Academic and vocational excellence
Our Sixth Form team and our dedicated tutors track and monitor the progress of every student very closely. Students and parents receive a report at the end of each half term detailing their attitude to learning and the grades they are achieving in all of their subjects.
A lack of progress by any of our students is seized upon, and a programme of intervention and additional support is put in place to raise their achievement.
Independent study
Our dedicated and supervised Sixth Form study area, fully equipped with ICT resources, develops students’ independent study skills and supports their achievement.
Our students attend conferences, exhibitions and lectures to extend and enrich their love of learning and enhance their opportunities for success in their chosen subjects. Our own Autumn Lecture Series includes a great many inspiring speakers such as Rory Tapner (CEO, Coutts Bank), Sir Charlie Mayfield (CEO, John Lewis), BBC film producer John Bridcut and former England cricket captain Andrew Strauss. Each year a number of our students attend conferences and workshops through our partnership with Radley College. Beyond the classroom we offer a wonderful array of international and domestic excursions to broaden the horizons, aspirations and experiences of our students. These include ski trips, sports tours, a tour of the Houses of Parliament, field trips etc.
“ In 2014 nearly all Year 13 students achieved the A level grades needed to take up places at university or institutions of higher education. Students comment on the helpful advice and guidance they are given by teachers in preparing their university applications� Ofsted 2014
Each of our students has his or her
follow an A level course will have
strengths and weaknesses, interests and
achieved a grade B or above in the
talents. Some of you will know from a
equivalent subject at GCSE.
young age exactly what it is you want to do and the path to get there. For others
The BTEC qualification has been
you will look to be inspired by your
established for over 25 years and is
experiences in the curriculum to guide
respected by employers and universities.
your choices in the Sixth Form and
The UCAS points from BTECs are
beyond. The Desborough personalised
accepted on a wide range of university
curriculum offers different pathways for
courses. BTECs suit students that
Sixth Form study.
achieve well in continuous assessment, knowing that initial work can be improved
A levels suit students who enjoy and
before final submission. Students wishing
succeed in purely academic subjects.
to follow a BTEC course will have
You will need to achieve well in or be
achieved a grade C or above in the
comfortable with examinations and feel
equivalent subject at GCSE or the BTEC
confident that the results of your end of
level 2 course.
course examinations will accurately reflect your ability. Students wishing to
You may wish to take a combination of A levels and BTECs if this suits your interests and gives you the right mix of study. In this way we are able to offer a
courses
fully personalised curriculum.
.
A Levels We have an impressive range of A-Level subjects, together with a small BTEC offer, details of which can be found further in this prospectus. Personalised support is integral to the Sixth Form, as is high quality careers advice and guidance. Plentiful preperation for university entrance is also offered. Those wishing to apply to Oxbridge or medicine will be entitled to additional help, including mock interviews and tuition for the 'STEP' papers.
G C E AS and A2 C ours es Art
Business
Biology
Chemistry
Computer Science
Design Technology
Drama and Theatre Studies
Economics
English Language
Further Mathematics
Geography
Government and Politics
History
Mathematics
Modern Foreign Languages
Music
Physcal Education
Photography Psychology
Physics
B TE C National Diplomas Level 3 - equivalent to one A level
Business
Music
Science
A r t a n d D es i g n Course Description
Art is a form of communication and a vehicle for self-expression to explore ideas and emotions. Studying Art and Design A-Level encourages you to draw upon your imagination, whilst developing observational, analytical and practical skills. Extra-curricular study includes visits to galleries, museums and entries to national competitions and exhibitions. There are regular opportunities to develop your skills and understanding of the subject through workshop style teaching. Students are encouraged to take ownership and develop independence through their body of work.
Course Content The Art and Design programme develops two components of work which integrate practical, critical and theoretical studies, using a variety of media and processes. The two year ALevel programme further extends practical work and your skill in independent study, working from given themes and starting points. Components of work address the four assessment objectives and will include the following: painting, sculpture, drawing and recording using a variety of media, printmaking and ceramics. The course is run over 2 years, where you will work under a broad title to develop skills and build confidence between September – April on a portfolio of work in the first year. After Easter you will complete a Personal Investigation that will include a written element of between 1000- 3000 words, ready for examination in the second year. There is no opportunity to enter at AS, all candidates must complete to A2. The final part of the course is an externally set assignment given by the examination board, Edexcel. This project based exam will consist of a body of work on the given theme plus a 3 day practical examination.
Entry Requirements You require a minimum of a grade B in Art GCSE to be considered for this course. A grade C in English is beneficial.
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Biolo gy C o ur s e D es c r i p t i on
This is a 2 year linear course which has been developed by Eduqas (part of the WJEC exam board). The course has a greater emphasis on analysis and interpreting results than those it replaces. It covers the main human body systems and compares them to a range of other animals, frequently considering things from an evolutionary perspective. It also explores applied topics such as the mode of action of drugs, biosensors, stem cells, cloning and genetic manipulation. The course has a significant practical aspect and the course aims to develop practical skills which are monitored at regular intervals according to a standard ‘Common Practical Assessment Criteria’ (CPAC). Completed work will be collected in a portfolio of evidence for a practical endorsement in the second year and a practical lab folder will be supplied for this purpose. This will provide evidence for a student’s ability and they will receive an official endorsement, although this will not contribute towards the A level final grade.
Year 12
In the first unit, you will study cell structure, as revealed by the electron microscope, and the way in which molecules interact with cell membranes. You will experiment with the main molecules of life and the action of enzymes. The second unit of the course contains an overview of classification. Biodiversity is studied in the context of evolution. Human body systems are explored, with circulation, gas exchange and digestion being studied and compared to the systems occurring in other organisms. Towards the end of the year, ecological fieldwork is introduced by a day visit to Studland in Dorset to investigate Sand Dune succession.
Year 13
The second year of the course includes the biochemistry of respiration and photosynthesis, human and plant reproduction and global population issues/food provision. Further ecological fieldwork is carried out, along with a look at the appropriate statistical methods and it is expected we will continue our annual residential field trip to Nettlecombe Court in order to accommodate this. You will also study the nervous system and how drugs/disease affect function, hormones and the homeostatic role of the kidney. There are also topics on genetics, population genetics, microbiology and human health and disease. Students will consider a variety of applications of biotechnology such as penicillin production and DNA fingerprinting.
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Assessment:
Testing will take place with regular end of topic tests and Year 12 students will take end of year examinations in July whilst Year 13 students will take mock examinations in January of their second year. The A level course is assessed externally in June of the second year via 3 written 2 hour exams. These papers are mainly short-answer questions with an essay comprising the last question. The papers will also contain questions which test students’ knowledge of experimental work in Biology.
Methods of Teaching
The course is delivered using a wide range of teaching styles, including experimental work, group work, discussions, short talks and poster presentations by students. Key facts and concepts are delivered by written notes, interactive hand outs, videos, practical demonstrations and extensive use of ICT. You will be expected to read from texts and articles. In addition to timetabled lessons, we often invite experts to give talks and run practical workshops. Recently these have included areas covering genetics and medical science careers. You will be expected to consolidate and extend your knowledge by reading the set texts, researching the internet and using the comprehensive support material in the college library. Students are encouraged to enter for the National Biology Olympiad.
Financial Implications
We anticipate that you will need to buy a £20 textbook at the start of each year, Following on from a successful trip this year, it is expected that the residential field trip will take place again next year to cover the majority of the statistics and ecology requirements. As a guide towards the costs, this year the trip was for 4 days and cost £280
Career Progression
This course can lead to careers in an enormous variety of areas including medicine, dentistry, midwifery, nursing, radiography, physiotherapy, pharmacy and other biomedical and healthcare vocations. It can also provide the foundation for the many purely scientific branches of the biological sciences, such as physiology, biochemistry, and pharmacology or more applied fields such as environmental science, food technology, agriculture, ecology, horticulture or forensics. It provides an excellent basis for many sports related degrees and is an essential entry requirement for veterinary medicine or marine biology.
Entry Requirements A minimum of a B grade GCSE in Dual Award Science or Triple Science Biology At least a B grade in GCSE Mathematics* and ideally a B grade in English GCSE *Overall, a minimum of 10% of the Biology exam marks will be awarded for Mathematical skills at level 2 or above.
Other considerations:
Students who choose another science A level or Maths in addition to Biology tend to perform better than those who select Biology as their only science. Those without English GCSE at grade B may find this subject difficult.
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B us i ness Course content and assessment
This A-level Business course introduces you to all you need to know about working in business, providing a solid foundation for further study. With a focus on helping you to become a good decision maker, you’ll learn essential managerial skills, alongside techniques to help you become an analytical problem solver. These skills are all highly sought after and valued in a wide range of careers. Year 12 An introduction to key business areas: marketing, operations, finance and human resource management. This includes a special focus on decision making – particularly how decisions made in one area can affect the rest of the business. Content Topic 1 – What is business? Topic 2 – Managers, leadership and decision making Topic 3 – Decision making to improve marketing performance Topic 4 – Decision making to improve operational performance Topic 5 – Decision making to improve financial performance Topic 6 – Decision making to improve human resource performance AS assessment AS assessment consists of two 90 minute written exams at the end of the one year course. Each exam will be worth half of the AS. Exams draw on material from the whole course, and will feature a range of question styles including: multiple choice questions, short answer questions, essay questions, data response questions and case studies. After taking the AS exams at the end of your first year of study you can decide to: • finish with an AS qualification • continue to A-level. Year 13 An investigation of the strategic decisions that all businesses have to make. Content Topic 7 – Analysing the strategic position of a business Topic 8 – Choosing the strategic direction Topic 9 – Strategic methods: how to pursue strategies Topic 10 – Managing strategic change
A-level assessment
A-level assessment consists of three x 2 hour written exams taken at the end of the two year course. Each exam will be worth a third of the A-level. All three papers will draw on material from the whole course, and will feature a range of question styles including multiple choice questions, short answer questions, essay questions, data response questions and case studies.
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Further study and career opportunities
If you’d like to study business, finance or management at university, A-level Business provides an excellent foundation. The skills you learn are transfe rable across a broad range of subjects and careers. Whatever you choose to do in the future, you’ll find that the things you learn in this course will help.
Entry requirements
You need to have achieved a grade B minimum in GCSE Business Studies and have achieved C grades in GCSE English and Mathematics to be considered for this course. If you have not studied GCSE Business Studies, our BTEC Extended Certificate in Busi ness could be an alternative course for you.
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Chemistry Description
We follow the OCR Chemistry A (H432) specification, one of the most popular courses in the country. The course runs over 2 years, with 3 exams sat in June of Year 2. Course Content Module 1 – Development of practical skills in chemistry Module 2 – Foundations in chemistry Module 3 – Periodic table and energy Module 4 – Core organic chemistry Module 5 – Physical chemistry and transition elements Module 6 – Organic chemistry and analysis http://www.ocr.org.uk/Images/171720-specification-accredited-a-level-gcechemistry-ah432.pdf Entry Requirements • 5 A*-C including English • At least a B grade in GCSE Chemistry (if doing separate sciences) or a B grade in core and additional sciences (double science award) • At least a B grade in GCSE Mathematics
Assessment
The course will be examined in June of your second year of study. First year exams will not be sat. The assessment will be as follows: Practical Endorsement In addition to their A level grade, students will work towards their ‘Practical Endorsement’ in chemistry. 12 core practicals will be completed throughout the course that test competence in practical skills. The Practical Endorsement is a Pass/Fail addition to the A level grade, and will be reported separately from the examination grade. Future Opportunities Although not always an absolute requirement, a Chemistry A level gives you an excellent basis from which to embark on a wide variety of potential degree subjects. Employers also value the sorts of analytical and problem solving skills gained from a science A level. Last year’s Yr 13 cohort went on to university to study a range of courses: Medicine, Pharmacy and Chemical Engineering to name but a few! Other popular courses requiring chemistry are: Veterinary medicine/science, dentistry, pharmacy, pharmacology, chemical engineering, nanoscience, materials science, food science, forensic science and biochemistry.
Career opportunities include academic or industrial research, medical diagnostics,
medical sales/marketing/advertising, environmental law, medical patenting law, pharmaceuticals, space exploration, forensic science and much more!
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Computer Science Course Description:
Should you choose to study Computer Science? The study of computation is about what can be computed and how to compute it. Computer Science involves questions that have the potential to change how we view the world. You will learn to think creatively, innovatively, analytically and logically as well as improve your communication and project management skills. This course, with its emphasis on abstract thinking, general problem solving, algorithmic and mathematical reasoning, scientific and engineering-based thinking, is a good foundation for future study.
Course Content
At A-Level you will study the following topics: Fundamentals of Programming, Fundamentals of Data Structures, Fundamentals of Algorithms, Theory of Computation, Fundamentals of Data Representation, Fundamental of Computer Systems, Fundamentals of Computer Organisation and Architecture, Consequences of uses of Computing, Fundamentals of Communication and Networking, Fundamentals of Databases, Big Data, Fundamentals of Functional Programming, and Systematic Approach to Problem Solving. You will also complete a practical non-exam assessment – the computing practical project, designed to encourage students to do an investigative project on a topic of particular interest to them. Entry Requirements You need to have achieved a grade C minimum in GCSE Computer Science or GCSE ICT or a Merit grade in Btec ICT and have achieved C grades in GCSE English and Mathematics to be considered for this course.
Assessment
Assessment is at the end of Year 13 only: Paper 1 – On-screen exam: 2 hours 30 minutes (40%) Paper 2 – Written exam: 2 hours 30 minutes (40%) Non-exam practical assessment – 75 marks (20%) Higher Education and Possible Careers The course will give students a clear progression into higher education.
Further Information & Reading
AQA A-Level Computer Science – ISBN 978-1-471-83951-1
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Design Technology Course Description
Advanced Level Design Technology: Product Design provides an opportunity for students to involve themselves in practical problem-solving activities, combining artistic ability with understanding and practical application of scientific principles. The Advanced Level Design and Technology course requires 3 components to be completed over two years.
1.
COURSEWORK: NON-EXAM ASSESSMENT:
2.
WRITTEN EXAM:
This requires the students to complete a final major project which reflects the increased design and manufacture ability of the students, having studied the first year. The marks allocated for the coursework represent a 50% weighting. Non-exam assessment (NEA) What's assessed Practical application of technical principles, designing and making principles and specialist knowledge. How it's assessed • Substantial design and make task • 45 hours • 100 marks • 50% of A-level Evidence: Written or digital design portfolio and photographic evidence of final prototype.
There are two exam papers to be taken at the end of the second year on the course. Paper 1 What's assessed Core technical principles and core designing and making principles. How it's assessed • Written exam: 2 hours • 100 marks • 25% of A-level Questions: Mixture of short answer, multiple choice and extended response. Paper 2 What's assessed Specialist knowledge, technical and designing and making principles. How it's assessed • Written exam: 2 hours • 25% of A-level Questions Mixture of short answer, multiple choice and extended response questions. Section A: • Product Analysis. • Up to 6 short answer questions based on visual stimulus of product(s). Section B: • Commercial manufacture. • Mixture of short and extended response questions Opportunities “Advanced Level Design Technology is the most acceptable subject for combining artistic/design ability with the understanding and practical application of scientific principles” SCUE: The Student Committee on Undergraduate Education. It is accepted by universities for a wide variety of courses, including Engineering and Design related courses, as well as courses in Management, Humanities, Architecture and Planning.
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Drama and Theatre Studies Awarding Organisation: Edexcel Syllabus Code: Pearson EDEXCEL Level 3 Advanced GCE in Drama and Theatre 9DR0 Course Title: A Level Drama & Theatre URL: qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/edexcel-a-levels/dramaandtheatre-2016.html
Summary
This exciting A level 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 invited to create their own performance approach to a range of texts, explore contemporary staging of plays and devise their own productions and performances. They will be given the opportunity to work with professional actors and directors, see a range of theatre and work with other A Level students from neighbouring schools and Radley College. Theatre trips are an essential part of the curriculum for sixth form students and visits to local venues and London theatres occur frequently. Acting workshops also form an important part of pupils’ training and the department has strong links with Norden Farm Centre for the Arts. All trips and workshops help students to appreciate Drama as a transitory ‘live’ art form and many of them form compulsory preparation for written exam work or coursework.
Component 1: Devising
Code: 9DR0/01 Coursework - 40% • Students are required to devise an original performance piece that uses one key extract from a performance text and a theatre practitioner as stimuli. Performer or designer routes are available.
Component 2: Text in Performance
Code: 9DR0/02 Coursework - 20% • A group performance or design realisation of one key extract from a performance text. • A monologue / duologue performance or design realisation from one key extract from a different performance text. • Centre choice of performance texts.
Component 3: Theatre Makers in Practice
Code: 9DR0/03 Written examination - 40% • Live theatre evaluation – • Practical exploration and realised for performance. • Practical exploration and light of a chosen practitioner – contemporary audience.
choice of performance. study of a complete text – focusing on how this can be interpretation of another complete performance text, in focusing on how this text could be reimagined for a
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Higher Education and Possible Careers:
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 onto 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.
Further Information & Reading:
Accidental Death of an Anarchist, Dario Fo (adapted by Gavin Richards) Methuen Drama ISBN 9780413156105 The Trial, Steven Berkoff ISBN 0-906399-84-X Woyzeck, Georg Bűchner (translated by John Mackendrick) Berg Publishing ISBN 9780413388209 Edexcel GCSE (9-1) Drama Student Book (Pearson) ISBN 978-1-292-15068-0 Edexcel A Level Drama and Theatre Student Book (Pearson) ISBN 978-1-292-15062-8
Assessment Method
Component 1 Devising • Internally assessed and externally moderated. • Written Portfolio between 2500-3000 words – 60 marks • Devised performance or design realisation – 20 marks Component 2 Text in Performance: • Externally assessed by a visiting examiner. • Group performance or design realisation - 36 marks • Monologue / duologue performance or design realisation - 24 marks Component 3 Theatre Makers in Practice: • External written examination. • Section A: Live Theatre Evaluation - 20 marks. Students answer one extended response question requiring them to analyse and evaluate a live theatre performance they have seen. Students are allowed to use theatre evaluation notes of up to a maximum of 500 words. Section B: Page to Stage: Realising a Performance Text – 36 marks. Students • answer two extended response questions based on an unseen extract from the performance text they have studied. Students will demonstrate how they intend to realise the extract in performance, answering from the perspective of a performer and a designer. • Section C: Interpreting a Performance Text - 24 marks. • Students will answer one extended response question using their chosen text. Students will demonstrate how their re-imagined production concept will communicate ideas to a contemporary audience, how the work of their chosen theatre practitioner has influenced this and demonstrate an awareness of the original performance conditions.
Entry Requirements
5 A*-C and at least a B-grade in Drama and English Language / Literature
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Economics Course Description
We will be teaching the new specification A level Economics A which began in September 2015. This is the Pearson Edexcel specification, the course content for which is highlighted below and more details can be found from http:// qualifications.pearson.com/content/dam/pdf/A%20Level/economics-a/2015/ specification-andsample-assessment-materials/PearsonEdexcel-AlevelEconomicsA-AccreditedSpec-August14.pdf Please note that this is a full A level and we do not sit an AS exam at the end of year 12. This means that the course is assessed entirely at the end of year 13 on ALL the topics from the two years of study. The Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in Economics A is structured into four themes. Students will need to apply their knowledge and understanding to both familiar and unfamiliar contexts in the assessments and demonstrate an awareness of current economic events and policies.
Course Content
Year 12 Theme 1: Introduction to markets and market failure Theme 2: The UK economy – performance and policies. Year 13 Theme 3: Business behaviour and the labour market Theme 4: The global economy
Entry requirements
Economics is generally considered to be one of th e hardest A level subjects and therefore we ensure the entry requirements are strict. In order to study the subject you must secure at least a B grade in both English and Mathematics, though hi gher grades would help make the transition easier.
Assessment
The course is examined entirely by three written exam papers taken in June at the end of year 13. The examinations are each 2 hours and are as follows: Paper 1: Markets and business behaviour (35% of the total qualification) - this consists of all the microeconomics studied in themes 1 and 3. The paper has 3 sections including shorter answer questions in section A and extended essay style questions in section C Paper 2: The national and global economy (35% of the total qualification) - this consists of all the macroeconomics studied in themes 2 and 4. The paper has 3 sections including shorter answer questions in section A and extended essay style questions in section C Paper 3: Microeconomics and macroeconomics (30% of the total quali fication) – this consists of all the economics studied across all four themes and is synoptic. This exam focuses more on extended answers. For further information please contact Mr T Collins
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English Language Course Description
This specification requires learners to show knowledge and understanding of a wide range of spoken and written texts from different times including six substantial texts drawn from poetry, prose fiction, Shakespeare, modern drama, and non-literary texts. In addition to the six substantial set texts for study, in this specification the term ‘text’ can refer to short complete texts, such as articles, single poems, transcriptions, or extracts from larger complete works, such as novels, plays, non-literary prose, etc. Learners will be given opportunities to read widely and to relate their wider reading to their study of both set texts and unseen material. Learners are required to show knowledge of some of the different language levels below: • Phonetics, phonology, prosody • Lexis and semantics • Grammar including morphology • Pragmatics • Discourse. Through learning linguistic terminology, learners will be able to articulate more precisely their perceptions about literary and non-literary texts. This will not only enhance their appreciation of other people’s writing but will also help them to write more effectively and accurately for a wide variety of purposes. Knowledge of the different language levels will enable learners to demonstrate understanding of: • How language choices shape meanings in texts • Ways in which individual texts are interpreted by different readers or listeners • How linguistic and literary approaches can inform interpretations of texts • Ways in which texts relate to each other and to the contexts in which they are produced and received • The significance of contextual factors in the production and reception of texts. • Fundamental to the course as a whole, learners will demonstrate knowledge and understanding of how to apply linguistic and literacy methodologies and concepts to • Inform their responses to and interpretations of texts.
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Course Content
Entry Requirements Entry requirements are a grade 5 minimum in both GCSE English Language and GCSE English Literature. You wil l follow the eduqas specification www.eduqas.co.uk/qualifications/ english-language- and-literature Although not always an absolute requirement, an A level in English Language/ Literature gives you an excellent basis from which to embark on a wide variety of potential degree subj ects, including (but not exclusively): Media Studies, Classics, English, French, History, Politics, Teacher Training, American Studies, Drama, European Studies, History of Art, Italian and German.
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Further Mathematics Course description
We will be teaching MEI OCR Mathematics, which will include Core 1, Core 2, Further Pure 1, Statistics 1, Decision 1, and Mechanics 1 in the first year and Core 3, Core 4, Further Pure 2, Statistics 2, Mechanics 2 and Mechanics 3 in the second year.
C o ur s e C o n t en t
AS Core 1: Extends the students’ k nowledge of Basic Algebra, Indi ces, Surds, and Straight Line Graphs and also teaches; Coordinate Geometry (Parabolas, Cubic Functions and Circles), Polynomials, and Mathematical Proof. Core2: Extends the students’ knowledge of Trigonometry, including using radian measure and applying these skills to navigation an d surveying problems. It teaches Sequences and Series, which are important in economics – a simple example being compound interest. Students learn about In tegration and Differentiation, which is widely used for rates of change, as well as introducing Logarithms and Exponenti als. Further Pure 1: This module introduces Matrices and their applications to transformations and solving simultaneous equations. Complex numbers and their geometrical representation and using them to find non -real roots of polynomi al equations. This course also includes Algebra looking mai nly at polynomial equations and the relationships between th eir roots and their coefficients, as well as Proof by Induction, Series, Graphs and Inequalities. Statistics 1: Extends the students’ knowledge of Probabili ties (Venn diagrams, conditional probability and the binomial model of probability), Averages, Ranges (mid-range, Interquartile range and Standard Deviatio n), Presenting data (Cumulative Frequency Graphs, Histograms, Box Plots), and also teaches new skills like Hypothesis Testing and Discrete Random Variables. Decision 1: This is an enjoyable module teaching the students Algorithms which are used in coding and decoding information, including securing communi cation o ver the internet. The work on Graphs introduces the idea of graphs as a collection o f points (nodes/vertices) connected by links (arcs/ edges). It also shows how graphs are used to model many situations involving connections such, as the London Underground. It also teaches Networks, Critical path analysis, and Linear programming, which is used in business to minimise costs or maximise profit. Mechanics 1: A high ly useful module for those Physicists or students interested in an Engineering career. It teaches the students about the mathematics to model systems i n Motion. It covers Projectiles, Vectors, Motion under Constant Acceleration, the use of calculus to model motion and the application of Newton’s Laws. A2 Core 3: Further extends the students’ knowledge about Proof, Differentiation, Integration and introduces them to Natural Logarithms, Functions, Numerical Solutions of Equations, and Functions. There is a coursework component comprising 20% of this module. Core 4: Introduces students to the concepts of Paramedic Equations, Differential Equations, Vectors, Trigonometric Identities and Equations, and the Binomial Expansion as well as Partial Fractions. There i s a comprehension component which is always a bit of fun. Return to Contents For further details please email us on 6thform@desborough college.net
Further Pure 2: This module further develops the students’ knowledge of Calculus, Matrices, and Complex numbers, which can, surprisingly, be used to solve mathematical problems that do not themselves involve complex numbers, such as deriving trigonometric identities. Let’s also not forget that Euler’s Equation, in which imaginary numbers and irrational numbers are combined to give an unexpected result! This module also introduces Power Series and Hyperbolic functions, which are great fun. Statistics 2: Introduces the Poisson distribution which is used to model situation in which events occur randomly, independently and at a uniform average rate. Students also learn about the normal distribution, Bivariate data, as well as extending knowledge of Samples and Hypothesis Testing. Mechanics 2: This introduces students to a model for friction, Moments of Forces, and Centre of Mass, whose position must be considered in the design of many familiar objects such as stepladders and furniture, to ensure they are stable. It also looks at Energy, work and powers, Frameworks, as well as Impulse and Momentum, which are concepts that are used in modelling collisions. Mechanics 3: The students will learn about the principles of Circular Motion, which allows us to calculate safe speeds for vehicles to move round a bend without skidding. The study of Elastic Strings and Springs has many applications, including the design of car suspension. Students will also learn about Columns of Revolution and Centres of Mass, Dimensions and Units, and Modelling Oscillations, which occurs naturally in many situations, such as in wave motion or a simple pendulum.
Entry Requirements
Mathematics is one of the more difficult A-Levels and would be most suitable to students achieving A* - A grades in Mathematics. However, we will also accept students achieving a B grade in Mathematics but strongly suggest they attend the A level Bridging Course which will start after the main June Examinations have finished.
Assessment
Core 1, Core 2, and Statistics 1 are examined at the end of Year 12. Core 1 is a NonCalculator examination, while Core 2 and Statistics 1 are both calculator papers. Each of these papers are split into a Section A part and a Section B part. Section A tends to be short straight forward questions and Section B tends to be longer multistep questions. Each paper is an hour and a half. Core 3, Core 4 and Mechanics 1 are examined at the end of Year 13. Core 3 includes a Coursework Component comprising 20% of the module, which needs to be finished by April. Core 4 comprises of two papers. The first is an hour and a half and the second is a one hour Comprehension Paper. Mechanics 1 is an hour and a half and like the AS modules is split into a Section A and Section B part.
Higher Education and Possible Careers
Careers may include Physics, Economics, Computer Science, and Engineering. It is also highly regarded by many other courses, such as medicine, because of the analytical and logical reasoning skills learned in A-Level Mathematics.
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Geography Course description
Should you choose to study Geography, you will learn about the world around you and explore the key issues facing the planet today and examine a range of potential solutions to them. You will develop the skills of research, problem solving, analysis, map work, evaluation and strengthen your ICT, communication and team-working skills. You will have opportunities through fieldwork for the first hand investigation of places, environments and human behaviour.
Course content
In Year 12 there are 2 areas of study: The Dynamic Planet: Tectonic Processes and Hazards and Landscape Systems, Processes and Change – including Coastal Landscapes and Change. Fieldwork will be incorporated into this examination. Dynamic Places: Globalisation and Shaping Places – including 1 optional sub-topic from either Regenerating Places or Diverse Places. Urban fieldwork will be incorpo-rated into this examination. The combined fieldwork will be for 2 days depending on location. All students will sit the AS exams. Each paper is 1 hour and 30 mins. In Year 13 there will be 4 externally examined papers: Paper 1 The Dynamic Planet: 2 hour exam including the 2 topics from AS. Area of study 1 Tectonic Processes and Hazards and Landscape Systems, Processes and Change- coastal landscapes and change. Additionally: The Water Cycle and Water Insecurity, the Carbon Cycle and Energy Security and Climate Change Futures. Paper 2 Dynamic places: 2 hour exam including: Globalisation and Shaping Places. Additionally: Superpowers and Global Development and Connections. Paper 3 The Synoptic paper:1 hour 45mins based on a resource booklet from the core topics. Paper 4 The Coursework: Here the student defines a question or issue for investigation, relating to the compulsory or optional content, with teacher guidance. The topic may relate to any aspect of geography contained within the specification and must include their own fieldwork. This will consist of 3 - 4,000 words.
Entry requirements
You need to have achieved a grade B minimum in GCSE Geography and have achieved C grades in GCSE English and Mathematics to be considered for this course.
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Government & Politics Course Description The Government & Politics A level will become linear from September 2017 as such the curriculum is not yet confirmed. However we will continue to teach content similar to the current AQA A-level specification. Students will be introduced to the government and politics of the UK and the USA, including Parliament, Congress and the legislative process in both countries. You will develop the skills of research, problem solving, analysis, evaluation and strengthen your ICT, communication and team-working skills. Opportunities to visit parliament and meet MPs and prospective candidates bring the process to life and enhance understanding of core concepts. What will I learn on this course? The Government & Politics of the United Kingdom: the system of ruling the United Kingdom, the role of politicians, pressure groups and the party system and how these groups affect the outcome of elections. The influence of the EU. The Government & Politics of the USA: a study of politics in the USA, the Federal Government system, and how the role of the individual states affects the national government. The Presidential Election, including a study of the primaries, caucuses and the Electoral College System. Plus a new unit on political philosophy & ideology: 3 compulsory units, Conservatism, Liberalism and Socialism. Plus a further optional unit from the following: Nationalism, multi-culturalism, feminism, anarchism or ecologism.
Course content: AS/A2 Level UNIT 1 - UK Participation & voting behaviour Political parties Electoral Systems Pressure Groups & Protest Movements The EU The British Constitution The Core Executive Parliament UNIT 2 – USA & comparative politics Political parties Voting behaviour The Electoral Process & Direct Democracy Pressure Groups Constitutional Framework of Government Judiciary: The Supreme Court Congress The Executive UNIT 3 – Political Ideology Liberalism Conservatism Socialism Plus a further optional unit: Nationalism, Feminism or anarchism. Return to Contents For further details please email us on 6thform@desborough college.net
Entry requirements
5 A*-C including English and at least a B-grade in GCSE History or English.
Assessment
A Level (Year 13): Three 2 hour exams, max 77 marks per paper
Future opportunities
Although not always an absolute requirement, a Government & Politics A-level gives you an excellent basis from which to embark on a wide variety of potential degree subjects, including (but not exclusively): History, in all its forms, Politics, International Relations, English, Law, Languages, Sociology, Psychology, Criminology, American Studies, Teaching, Classical Studies, European Studies, Archaeology, Economics, Philosophy, History of Art. It is an excellent complement to History A Level Career opportunities include Marketing, Sales and Advertising Professionals, Management trainees, Education Professionals, Business and Financial Professionals, International Manager, Financial crimes investigation, IT, Web project officer, Politician, Arts, Design, Social & Welfare Professionals, Police Officer, Foreign Office, Civil Service.
Further information
For further information please contact Mrs Murphy or Mr Wyles.
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History Course Description
A-level History provides a broad, coherent and satisfying course of study for students. You will develop the skills of research, problem solving, analysis, evaluation and strengthen your ICT, communication and team-working skills. The specification requires student to study: • the history of more than one country or state or the history of more than one period • aspects of the past in breadth, through period(s) or theme(s), and in-depth • significant individuals, societies, events, developments and issues within a broad historical context • developments affecting different groups within the societies studied • a range of appropriate historical perspectives, for example: aesthetic; cultural; economic; ethnic; political; religious; scientific; social or technological.
Course content: A Level
Component 1: The Making of a Superpower: USA, 1865–1975 Part One: From Civil War to World War, 1865–1920 • The Era of Reconstruction and the Gilded Age, 1865–1890 o The weaknesses of Federal Government: Johnson, Grant and the failure of Radical Reconstruction o The limits of foreign engagement and continuation of isolationism: the continuation of the Monroe Doctrine; territorial consolidation (Alaska) and tensions over Canada • Populism, Progressivism and Imperialism, 1890–1920 o Political tensions and divisions: the reaction against Big Business at national and state level o Economic change and developments: the rise of US dominance as an economic and industrial power and the consequences of this o Social developments: mass immigration and urbanisation and their consequences; the position of African-Americans o Foreign affairs Part Two: Crises and the Rise to World Power, 1920–1975 o Crisis of identity, 1920–1945 o Domestic politics: Harding, Coolidge and Republican conservatism; Hoover and the Depression o FDR and the New Deals: o The economy: boom to bust and recovery; o Social and cultural developments: ‘ o Social, regional and ethnic divisions o The USA and international relations o The Superpower, 1945–1975 o Domestic politics: Truman, Eisenhower Kennedy, Johnson and Nixon o Economic change and developments: the rise of the consumer society and economic boom o Ideological, social, regional and ethnic divisions o The USA and international relations: the Cold War; the Vietnam War o The USA by 1975: its place as a Superpower; the limits of social cohesion; new cultural developments, including the role of women and the position of African-Americans.
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A Level Component 2: The English Revolution, 1625–1660 Part One: The Origins of the English Civil War, 1625–1642 • The emergence of conflict and the end of consensus, 1625–1629 o The legacy of James I: religious issues and divisions; relations between Crown and Parliament o Monarchy and Divine Right o Challenges to the arbitrary government of Charles I: o Parliamentary radicalism; personalities and policies of parliamentary opposition to the King • An experiment in Absolutism, 1629–1640 o Charles I’s Personal Rule o Religious issues o Political issues: the role of Wentworth; policies in Ireland and England; o Radicalism, dissent and the approach of war: • The crisis of Parliament and the outbreak of the First Civil War, 1640–1642 o The Divided Political Nation 1640: o Pym and the development of parliamentary radicalism: o Conflicts between Crown and Parliament o The slide into war o Part Two: Radicalism, Republic and Restoration, 1642–1660 • War and radicalism, 1642–1646 o The First Civil War: the strengths and weaknesses of the political and military leadership of the Royalist cause o The First Civil War: the strengths and weaknesses of the political and military leadership of the Parliamentary forces o The intensification of radicalism: o The end of the First Civil War • The disintegration of the Political Nation, 1646–1649 o Political and religious radicalism: o Political and religious divisions o The Second Civil War and the reasons for its outcome o The problem of Charles I: divisions within the army and Parliament; the trial and execution of the King • Experiments in Government and Society, 1648–1660 o The Third Civil War: the attempted Royalist revival o Political radicalism o Oliver Cromwell and the Protectorate: o The monarchy restored A Level Component 3: Coursework. A piece of coursework on a subject of the student’s choice. It may not be directly related to any content already studied. It must cover a chronological period of 100 years. http://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/history/as-and-a-level/history-7042
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Entry requirements
5 A*-C including English and at least a B-grade in GCSE History or English. Assessment A Level assessment is a combination of two written examinations and a piece of coursework which is internally marked and externally moderated. The chronology of the course must cover a period of 200 years. Paper 1: Examining component 1: 40% of A Level Paper 2: Examining component 2: 40% of A level Coursework: Component 3: 20% of A Level. AS assessment is by two written examinations, they are based upon the same topics but considered over a shorter period of time. There is no coursework requirement.
Future opportunities
Although not always an absolute requirement, a History A-level gives you an excellent basis from which to embark on a wide variety of potential degree subjects, including (but not exclusively): History, in all its forms, Politics, International Relations, English, Law, Languages, Sociology, Psychology, Criminology, American Studies, Teaching, Classical Studies, European Studies, Archaeology, Economics, Philosophy, History of Art. Career opportunities include Journalist, archaeologist, Marketing, Sales and Advertising Professionals, Management trainees, Education Professionals, Business and Financial Professionals, International Manager, Financial crimes investigation, IT, Web project officer, Politician, Arts, Design, Social & Welfare Professionals, Police Officer, Foreign Office, Civil Service.
Further information
For further information please contact Mrs Murphy
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Mathematics Course Description We will be teaching Edexcel Mathematics, which is a linear course. Course Content The Edexcel Mathematics A-Level consists of three papers. Pure Mathematics - proof, algebra, coordinate geometry, sequences and series, trigonometry, differentiation, integration and numerical methods. Paper 3: Statistics and Mechanics -statistical sampling, data presentation, interpretation, probability, statistical distributions, statistical hypothesis testing, quantities and units in mechanics, kinematics, forces, Newton’s Law and moments. Statistics and Mechanics – presenting data, interpretation data, statistical sampling, probability, hypothesis testing, forces, Newton’s laws, forces and kinematics. In Year 12 you will complete an internal examination. In Year 13 you will sit three exams which will make up your final grade. All exams are two hours in length, calculators can be used in all papers.
Entry Requirements
Minimum entry requirements: 7 grade at GCSE. However 6 grade candidates will be considered -and a decision will be made on a case by case basis. Assessment Paper 1: Pure Mathematics Paper 2: Pure Mathematics Paper 3: Statistics and mechanics. In Year 12 you will complete an internal examination. In Year 13 you will sit three exams which will make up your final grade. All exams are two hours in length, calculators can be used in all papers.
Higher Education and Possible Careers
Careers may include Physics, Economics, Computer Science, and Engineering. It is also highly regarded by many other courses, such as medicine, because of the analytical and logical reasoning skills learned in A level Mathematics.
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Assessment Core 1, Core 2, and Statistics 1 are examined at the end of Year 12. Core 1 is a NonCalculator examination, while Core 2 and Statistics 1 are both calculator papers. Each of these papers are split into a Section A part and a Section B part. Section A tends to be short straight forward questions and Section B tends to be longer multistep questions. Each paper is an hour and a half. Core 3, Core 4 and Mechanics 1 are examined at the end of Year 13. Core 3 includes a Coursework Component comprising 20% of the module, which needs to be finished by April. Core 4 comprises of two papers. The first is an hour and a half and the second is a one hour Comprehension Paper. Mechanics 1 is an hour and a half and like the AS modules is split into a Section A and Section B part.
Higher Education and Possible Careers
Careers may include Physics, Economics, Computer Science, and Engineering. It is also highly regarded by many other courses, such as medicine, because of the analytical and logical reasoning skills learned in A level Mathematics.
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MFL Course Description
An A-Level in a Modern Foreign Language is an asset, as language graduates are highly employable and versatile. They can pursue a diverse range of careers including Business, Law, Education and the Media. We are part of the European Union and language qualifications are highly valued by universities for their academic rigour.
Course Content
At AS level you will explore and discuss the topics of Social issues and trends and Artistic culture. At A-Level you will learn to express and defend your views on the Social issues and trends and Political and artistic culture. Grammar will also be taught intensively both at AS and A-Level.
Assessment
You will sit a Reading, Listening and Writing exam and a speaking exam at the end of the course. There will also be a separate Writing ex-am at the end of each year to assess the study of a literary text or a film at AS and a novel and a film at A-Level. The AS and ALevel are separate qualifications.
Entry Requirements
You need to have achieved a grade B in French German or Spanish GCSE to be considered for this course. Students will also need to demonstrate their commitment and interest in the subject. A willingness to travel to the country where the target language is spoken will also help.
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Music
Course Description A-Level Music leads not only to traditional careers in teaching, composing and performing, but also working in what is now the second biggest visible industry in the country. The course covers a wide range of musical genres and periods whilst developing your skills in composing, performing and analysis to the highest level.
Course Content AS COMPONENT 1 (PERFORMING) – A 6 minute public recital on an instrument or voice of your choice. Approximate difficulty standard of grade 6. AS COMPONENT 2 (COMPOSING) – Two compositions, one to a brief set by Edexcel and on either free composition or also to a brief. Each composition must be at least 2 minutes in durations with a total minimum submission length of 4 minutes 30 seconds. AS COMPONENT 3 (APPRAISING) - You will study 2 set works in 6 different areas of study: Vocal Music, Instrumental Music, Music for Film, Popular Music and Jazz, Fusions and New Directions. Assessment is through a 1 hour 30 minute exam. A2 COMPONENT 1 (PERFORMING) – An 8 minute public recital on an instrument or voice of your choice. Approximate difficulty standard of grade 7. A2 COMPONENT 2 (COMPOSING) – Two compositions, one to a brief set by Edexcel and on either free composition or also to a brief. Total time across both submissions must be a minimum of 6 minutes. A2 COMPONENT 3 (APPRAISING) - You will study 3 set works in 6 different areas of study (1 new one in addition to those studied for AS): Vocal Music, Instrumental Music, Music for Film, Popular Music and Jazz, Fusions and New Directions. Assessment is through a 2 hour exam
How will I be assessed for this course?
Both Years = Component 1 (30%) + Component 2 (30%) + Component 3 (40%).
Course requirements:
Minimum of a grade C in Music GCSE and/or Grade 5 Theory qualification. Performance skills on an instrument or voice to at least Grade 5. Be able to read treble and bass clef notation with confidence.
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Physical Education Course Description
OCR’s A-Level in Physical Education will equip learners with both a depth and breadth of knowledge, understanding and skills relating to scientific, socio-cultural and practical aspects of physical education. In the practical component of the course students will refine their ability to perform effectively in physical activity and sport by developing skills and techniques and selecting tactics, strategies and/or compositional ideas. Students will also develop their ability to analyse and evaluate their own/others performance. The theoretical aspect of the course develops pupil’s knowledge and understanding of the factors that underpin physical activity and sport. Students will examine how physiological and psychological states affect performance, and understand the key socio-cultural factors that influence people's involvement in physical activity and sport
Course Content
Component 01 – Physiological factors affecting performance. This includes: Applied anatomy and physiology Exercise physiology Biomechanics Component 02 – Psychological factors affecting performance. This includes: Skill acquisition Sport psychology Component 03 – Socio-cultural issues in physical activity and sport. This includes: Sport and society Contemporary issues in physical activity and sport Component 04 – Performance in physical education. This includes: Performance or coaching (one sport only) Evaluation and analysis of performance for improvement (speaking exam) http://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/as-a-level-gce-physical-education-h155-h555from-2016/
Entry Requirements
5 A*-C including a B grade in English and Science. In Physical Education students must achieve at least a B grade with a minimum of a C grade in the written GCSE PE examination.
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Assessment
The new specification (first teaching from Sept 2016) includes the following assessments: Component 01 – Physiological factors affecting performance. A two hour written paper, consisting of 90 marks. This is 30% of the total A-level. Component 02 – Psychological factors affecting performance. A one hour written paper, consisting of 60 marks. This is 20% of the total A-level. Component 03 – Socio-cultural issues in physical activity and sport. This includes: A one hour written paper, consisting of 60 marks. This is 20% of the total A-level. Component 04 – Performance in physical education. This includes: A non-exam assessment, including assessment in one sport and the evaluation of performance (speaking exam). This consists of 60 marks and is 30% of the total A-level.
Higher Education and Possible Careers
A-level Physical Education can lead to a number of career opportunities in both higher education and employment. Some of the main avenues are as follows: - Sports Science at University - Sports Management at University - Physiotherapy at University - - Physical Education teacher - - Sports coaching. - Health and Fitness Instructor - Leisure and Tourism employment. Further Information & Reading For further please contact Mr Hamilton (Curriculum Leader for PE) at your earliest convenience. Further reading – http://www.ocr.org.uk/qualifications/as-a-level-gce-physical-educationh155-h555from-2016/
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Photography Course Description Photography is a process of documenting and exploring the world. It is a broad and constantly evolving topic of communication and a vehicle for self-expression to explore ideas and emotions. Studying Photography A-Level encourages you to draw upon your imagination, whilst developing observational, analytical and practical skills. Extra-curricular study includes visits to galleries, museums and entries to national competitions and exhibitions. There are regular opportunities to develop your skills and understanding of the subject through workshop style teaching. Students are encouraged to take ownership and develop independence through their body of work.
Course Content The Photography programme develops two components of work which integrate practical, critical and theoretical studies, using a variety of media and processes. The two year A-Level programme further extends practical work and your skill in independent study, working from given themes and starting points. Components of work address the four assessment objectives and will include the following: digital work, physical manipulation, analysis, historical context and presentation skills. The course is run over 2 years, where you will work under a broad title to develop skills and build confidence between September – April on a portfolio of work in the first year. After Easter you will complete a Personal Investigation that will include a written element of between 1000- 3000 words, ready for examination in the second year. There is no opportunity to enter at AS, all candidates must complete to A2. The final part of the course is an externally set assignment given by the examination board, Edexcel. This project based exam will consist of a body of work on the given theme plus a 3 day practical examination.
Entry Requirements If it beneficial to have a minimum of a grade B in Art GCSE to be considered for this course. Candidates without a GCSE in Art are also accepted provided they have a grade C or above in English and will need to complete a portfolio of work before consideration. It is vital that students also purchase their own DSLR Camera in order to complete work outside of school.
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P h y s ics Course Description
We will be teaching the new specification Edexcel A level Physics from September 2015. Please note that for anyone who starts in September 2015, AS exams will NOT contribute to a final A level grade - they will be regarded as separate qualifications. We expect that we will still sit the AS exam in the summer of year 12, as a valuable progress check.
Course Content AS only: Mechanics Electrical circuits Materials Waves and Particle Nature of Light AS and A2: Further Mechanics Electric and Magnetic Fields Nuclear and Particle Physics Thermodynamics Space Nuclear Radiation Gravitation Oscillations More information can be found here: http://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/edexcel-a-levels/physics-2015.html http://qualifications.pearson.com/content/dam/pdf/A%20Level/Physics/2015/ Specification%20and%20sample% 20assessments/PearsonEdexcel-Alevel-Physics-Specupdated.PDF
Entry Requirements
5 A*-C, including grade A Physics and Maths GCSE. If you don’t quite get these, we can look at how close you got and what your score was on the physics part of the science GCSE. You are severely limiting your chance of doing well at A level Physics if you do not also do an A level in maths.
Assessment
The AS is assessed in summer of year 12 by two 1hr 30 minute papers The A2 is assessed in summer of year 13. There are three papers in total, the last of which is a synoptic paper covering everything in the course.
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Higher Education and Possible Careers
Physics is probably the most versatile, useful A level there is. It will be accepted for virtually any degree, is required for many, and a good physics grade is a badge of academic excellence that any University will take notice of. For any course at University with a slightly scientific focus, physics will either be essential or very highly desirable. As well as the obvious route of physics and all the aspects from quantum physics to cosmology that physics covers, it is a must for courses in engineering and very strongly recommended for courses such as medicine. A physics degree is a ticket into a huge range of careers. As well as academic careers, physicists are in demand pretty much everywhere. A physics graduate has been taught how to think – how to model and understand complicated systems and processes, how to deal with and interpret data and, in general, how to understand how things work. There is a huge demand for physicists in the City and the financial sector as a whole, and physicists are instrumental in several aspects of healthcare, but any organisation that has anything complicated going on would love to have a physicist to work things out for them! People with a physics degree work on modelling fires inside nuclear submarines, designing new inhalers for medical treatments, modelling weather and heat flows inside a house (in order to maximise energy efficiency), be in charge of sorting out a company’s database for dealing with customer complaints, as well as working as professional researchers in Universities. Angela Merkel, the German Chancellor, is a Physics graduate. Physics really does lead to just about anything.
Further Information & Reading
A list of recommended reading around the subject is available on the school website
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Psychology Course Description
In studying Psychology, you will develop your skills of analysis and evaluation. We will teach you to deal with conflicting theories, consider evidence and draw conclusions. You will strengthen your communication skills, both written and oral and learn how to form a structured and considered argument. You will learn about people, what they do and why they do it, this will be useful in any life situation that involves dealing with other people.
Course Content
At AS level you will study Psychology by investigating the different approaches that Psychologists use to explain human behaviour. You will look at Psychody-namic, Behavioural, Cognitive, Biological and Positive Psychology. In each approach you will learn about a classic study, then each approach will be applied to investigating human relationships. In addition you will study the Research Methods that are used in psychological investigations. For A-Level you will learn all of the AS material, in addition you will be expected to apply your understanding of Approaches and Research Methods to 3 of the following: Addiction, Autism, Bullying, Criminal Behaviour, Schizophrenia and Stress. There is also a component dealing with controversies in Psychology such as sexism, cultural bias, the use of nonhuman animals in research, and the ethical costs of research.
Assessment
In Year 12 you will sit two exams and have mini tests in lessons. In Year 13 you will sit 3 exams in the summer of Year 2 and write regular timed essays.
Entry Requirements
Psychology requires the ability to write clearly and concisely, as well as requiring calculations and the use of statistical Formulae. You will require either a B grade in GCSE Psychology or B in Maths/Statistics and C in English Language.
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BTEC National Extended Certificate in Business At Desborough College we have a track record of success when it comes to offering BTEC course in the Business Studies department, with 100% of students leaving Year 13 with a D*-M grade in 2016. In September 2016 we will be offering the new BTEC course, now known as the Extended Certificate.
Why choose a BTEC?
With a track record built over 30 years of learner success, BTEC Nationals are widely recognised by industry and higher education as the signature vocational qualification at Level 3. They provide progression to the workplace either directly or via study at a higher level. Proof comes from YouGov research, which shows that 62% of large companies have recruited employees with BTEC qualifications. What’s more, well over 100,000 BTEC students apply to UK universities every year and their BTEC Nationals are accepted by over 150 UK universities and higher education institutes for relevant degree programmes either on their own or in combination with A Levels.
A word to learners
Today’s BTEC Nationals are demanding, as you would expect of the most respected applied learning qualification in the UK. You will have to choose and complete a range of units, be organised, take some assessments that we will set and mark, and keep a portfolio of your assignments. But you can feel proud to achieve a BTEC because, whatever your plans in life – whether you decide to study further, go on to work or an apprenticeship, or set up your own business – your BTEC National will be your passport to success in the next stage of your life.
Course structure
The new BTEC Nationals in Business use a combination of assessment styles to give students confidence they can apply their knowledge to succeed in the workplace – and have the study skills to continue learning throughout their career.
More information
To help decide if the Extended Certificate is the correct course for you, or if you have any questions that haven’t been answered, then please get in touch with Mr Clawson, Head of Business Studies, via the school office or at danielclawson@desborough-college.net.
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BTEC National Extended Certificate in Music The BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate in Music extends the specialist work-related focus of the BTEC Level 3 Certificate qualification and covers the key knowledge and practical skills required in the appropriate vocational sector. The BTEC Level 3 course offers greater flexibility and a choice of emphasis through the optional units. You have to do 3 mandatory units and 1 optional unit over the space of 2 years. It is equivalent to one A Level.
Edexcel BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate in Music
Mandatory units• • •
Ensemble Music Performance Practical Music Theory and Harmony Professional Practice in the Music Industry
Optional units• • • • •
Composing music Music promotion Solo performance Music performance session styles Music software skills
Through these units you explore creating music, performance work including group and solo skills, development as a musician and listening skills. You also look at how to work and achieve in the music industry. There is some theory work and this is also applied practically to your instrument. Some of the units are marked externally, some are marked internally by your teacher.
Entry Criteria
I will need to review the entry profile of qualifications and/or experience held by each pupil, considering whether the profile shows an ability to progress in a level 3 qualification. For those who do not have a GCSE in music an audition will be needed to show instrumental skill level. To be entered onto the course you may have had • la BTEC level 2 qualification in Music • la standard of literacy and numeracy knowledge • Up to four GCSEs at grade A*-C • oOther related level 2 qualifications • lRelated work experience/musical experiences and skills
Progression routes
The Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma is accepted at most universities. Pupils are able to study 3 other AS levels or 2 A2 levels alongside the Level 3 Btec Music Performance. further research- http://www.edexcel.com/quals/nationals10/music/Pages/default.aspx
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Certificate In Applied Sciences Introduction To The Course
This qualification is equivalent to one A-Level and is suitable for students who are interested in taking a Science subject alongside other fields of study. It is and appropriate choice for progress to a wide range of higher education courses, not necessarily in Science. It may be studied alongside other BTEC qualifications or with ALevels. Four units will be completed over two years.
What will i learn on this course?
Unit 1 - Principals and applications of Science. Students will study some basic concepts in Biology, Chemistry and Physics, including atomic structure, animal and plant cells and waves. This unit is assessed externally. Unit 2 - Practical Scientific Procedures. Activities are focused on the development of laboratory skills and includes titrations, colorimetric and chromatography. This unit will be assessed internally. Unit 3 - Science Investigative Skills. Students will learn how to plan a scientific investigation, collect and collate data, and reach valid conclusions. They will apply these skills to experiments involving enzymes and diffusion of molecules. This unit is assessed externally. Unit 4 - Diseases and Infections. Learners will gain understanding of five types of diseases, their causes and how humans try to prevent and treat them. This unit is assessed internally.
How will i be assessed for this course?
Coursework. External assessment.
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ask
yourself... What GCSE/BTEC grade am I likely to achieve in this course? GCSE and BTEC grades are a sound indicator of A level performance in the Sixth Form.
Did I enjoy the course at GCSE? Students are more likely to be motivated and engage in self-study if this applies.
Is the course one I haven’t studied before?
What do existing Sixth Formers think of the course?
What do I want to do after Sixth Form?
What are the names of the individual modules that make up the full A level course? Do they sound appealing?
If so, then students should undertake some research e.g. internet, reading, etc. to try and get a “feel” for the subject.
Students should consider the requirements of their next steps whether they are in higher education or the workplace.
Try and speak to some current Sixth Form students and ask them for their honest opinion.
These will help build a picture of what students will be faced with once the course has commenced.
This prospectus is just a small part of the
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