Sixth Form Prospectus 2018 by DesboroughCollege

Desborough College Sixth Form Prospectus September 2018 Admission

Welcome to Desborough 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. Mr Paul Frazer, BA Principal It is my pleasure and privilege to work within and lead our co-educational Sixth Form, and I am delighted that you are considering joining us in 2018. At Desborough it is our overriding goal to ensure that our students leave us at the end of their study programmes, not only with strong academic outcomes, but wellequipped and prepared for their next step. It is for this reason, that we place a strong emphasis on enrichment, careers guidance, employability, leadership, enterprise and character development. We encourage all students to be relentless in their pursuit of success, and uncompromising in their ambitions. At Desborough “Better Never Stops”. We are immensely proud of our students’ achievements in public examinations, but more so of the success our young people continue to enjoy, long after they have left our Sixth Form. Mr Daniel Clawson, BEd Assistant Principal Head of Sixth Form

Student Leadership I came to Desborough in 2011 as a Year 7 student, and have witnessed enormous changes for the better each year I have been here, including improved teaching and learning, outstanding exam results, and the growing popularity of our school. One of the most valuable things Desborough has taught me is the value of character, and this is what ‘The Desborough Way’ emphasises. Desborough has not only provided me with an outstanding education, but has always been there for me, offering fantastic pastoral support when I’ve needed it. Despite having the opportunity to study elsewhere for my A-Levels, I made the best choice to stay at Desborough. I have continued to develop good relationships with staff and students, been given many opportunities to spend time on other interests, and have received impartial and regular careers advice to prepare me for my next step. It has been an honour to serve my school and Sixth Form as Head Boy.

Jonathan Evans Head Boy I chose Desborough because it was able to accommodate my subject choices and because I felt that a coed Sixth Form would bring fresh perspectives, new social opportunities and be an altogether more dynamic place to study. It’s been great to be able to pursue all of my interests at Desborough, including Music through our Sixth Form consortium. At Desborough I feel fully supported by my teachers and I have engaged in many extra-curricular activities, including leading our first Young Enterprise company to success in the area and county finals, as the very proud Managing Director. I have thoroughly enjoyed my two years at Desborough, and have been supported fully as I researched and considered my options for next year. The remarkable opportunities I have received here have given me so many options for my future, and regardless of what I choose, my experiences will help me to Jonathan Head Boy continue toEvans, be successful and ambitious. Currently studying: Biology, Chemistry and Maths

Philippa Russell Head Girl

Our Sixth Form at a glance  A Sixth Form Centre equipped for independent and collaborative study. A perfect environment to spend your study periods and unwind with other students;  A diverse and evolving enrichment programme which forms part of your timetabled week;  Access to careers guidance and support from day one;  A wide choice of certified micro-learning courses tailored to your aspirations;  Opportunities to take on leadership and mentoring roles across our school and Sixth Form;  A vast array of successful sports teams to join;  A well mapped and guided UCAS process to support those who apply for university, and equal support for those who don’t;  Expert coaching for Oxbridge/Medicine applicants;  Regular guest lectures and extra-curricular opportunities through our unique partnership with Radley College;  A broad curriculum, underpinned by high quality teaching; and  A strong pastoral structure to support and encourage you throughout your time in the Sixth Form.

Better Never Stops

Enrichment ‘The action of improving or enhancing the quality or value of something’ Your time in the Sixth Form is precious, and so it’s vital that you make the most of every opportunity made available to you. However, we know that some students need a gentle push in the right direction, and so each week our students have a timetabled period to pursue their chosen enrichment activities. These are chosen at the beginning of the academic year, with some leading to a recognised qualification. Our programme constantly evolves to match the aspirations of our Sixth Form, but a selection of activities which have been available, include:         

Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) Chinese Studies/Mandarin Language Sports Leaders Award Young Enterprise Company Programme CISCO Certification Rugby team Recreational games Administration & Classroom experience CREST Gold Award

Teamwork | Courage

Application process You are warmly invited to attend our annual Open Evening, which will take place on Thursday 25th January, from 7pm. This event will give you an ideal opportunity to meet key staff, gather information from our Curriculum Leaders and talk with current Sixth Form students about their subjects, experiences, and reasons for choosing Desborough College. The next step is to complete the appropriate application form, which can be found on our website, and you are strongly encouraged to complete this once you have reviewed our entry requirements carefully. Completed applications should be received by Friday 23rd February. All applicants will be invited to an interview, where we can discuss your choices in more detail, and get to know our eternal applicants better. We will also request a reference from the current school of all external applicants. Successful applicants will receive a conditional offer letter (normally before the Easter holidays), along with an invitation to our Sixth Form Taster Day, which takes place late in June. Once you have received your GCSE results, you will need to confirm in person or via email, if you wish to accept your original offer. For those students who do not meet the requirements of their offer, or need to adjust an offer, this can only be done in person on GCSE results day, in the Sixth Form Centre.

If you have any questions about our application and enrolment process, please get in touch at: sixthformadmin@desborough-college.net

Positivity | Pride

A-Level Courses

Art & Design Curriculum Leader: Miss C Rhodes

Entry Requirements: GCSE Grade 6

Course Information 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 and broaden your skills ready for entry into a competitive job market. A Level Art is now assessed after two full years of study â&#x20AC;&#x201C; there is no AS qualification at the end of Year 12. This means that students can develop skills and techniques in their portfolio throughout the 1st year of study, ready for examination in Year 13. The Year 12 programme develops two components of work which integrate practical, critical and theoretical studies, using a variety of media and processes. The Year 13 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: painting, sculpture, drawing and recording using a variety of media, printmaking, and ceramics. Assessment Component 1 is a personal investigation; this will include a written element of between 10003000 words which has a separate mark scheme. Coursework represents 60% of the final grade. Component 2 is an externally set assignment given by the examination board. Examination is completed after an 8-week preparation period and a 15-hour sustained exam.

For more information contact: sixthformadmin@desborough-college.net

Biology Curriculum Leader: Mr E Brockett

Entry Requirements: GCSE Grade 6, and 6 in Mathematics

Course Information This is a 2-year linear course. 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 plants and 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 â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Common Practical Assessment Criteriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; (CPAC). Completed practical work will be collected in a portfolio of evidence and a practical lab folder will be supplied for this purpose. Students 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 first unit of the course includes the biochemistry of respiration and photosynthesis, microbiology, ecology, 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, Somerset, to accommodate this. The second unit covers human and plant reproduction, genetics. Students will consider a variety of applications of biotechnology such as penicillin production and DNA fingerprinting In the third unit you will study the nervous system, human health and disease, hormones, and the homeostatic role of the kidney. For more information contact: sixthformadmin@desborough-college.net

Business Studies Curriculum Leader: Ms S Neal

Entry Requirements: GCSE Grade B, and 5 in English & Mathematics

Course Information This AS and 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 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.

For more information contact: sixthformadmin@desborough-college.net

Chemistry Curriculum Leader: Miss R Ellis

Entry Requirements: GCSE Grade 6, and 6 in Mathematics

Course Information 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 Assessment The course will be examined in June of your second year of study. First year exams will not be sat. The written assessment will be as follows: • Periodic table, elements and physical chemistry - 100 marks - 2 hours 15 minutes • Synthesis and analytical techniques - 100 marks - 2 hours 15 minutes • Unified chemistry - 70 marks - 1 hour 30 minutes 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, 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 Year 13 cohort went on to university to study a range of courses: Medicine, Biochemistry, Pharmacy, and Chemical Engineering to name but a few! Other popular courses requiring chemistry are: Veterinary medicine/science, dentistry, pharmacy, pharmacology, nanoscience, materials science, food science and forensic science.

For more information contact: sixthformadmin@desborough-college.net

Computer Science Curriculum Leader: Ms D McDonald

Entry Requirements: GCSE Grade 6 or B/6 in ICT, and 5 in Mathematics

Course Information 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. 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%) Further Information & Reading AQA A-Level Computer Science – ISBN 978-1-471-83951-1

For more information contact: sixthformadmin@desborough-college.net

Design & Technology Curriculum Leader: Miss A Kelleher

Entry Requirements: GCSE Grade B

Course Information The course is broken into three different assessment units. Two exam units and a coursework unit. Assessment: Paper 1: Exam Paper - 30% - Technical Principles Paper 2: Exam Paper - 20% - Design and Making Principles. Non-exam Assessment - 50% - Practical application of technical principles, design and making principles. Section A: Technical Principles Candidates should develop an understanding of the physical and mechanical properties of a broad range of materials and components. They should understand why these are used in specific applications with particular emphasis on the life-cycle of products including manufacture, use and disposal. Candidates should have a good understanding of the methods by which materials and components can be manipulated to manufacture products. Through study and first-hand experience in practical project work, candidates will also develop knowledge of the health and safety issues relevant to working with materials. Coursework projects may also provide an opportunity for students to learn about the use of computer aided design (CAD) and computer aided manufacture (CAM), and the use of basic quality control measures. In addition to this, through study and detailed analysis of a wide range of products, candidates should begin to develop knowledge and understanding of the broader issues for the designer such as: environmental sustainability of products and their manufacture, ergonomic and anthropometrics, inclusive design, and consumer safety. Section B: Design and Making Principles Through study and detailed analysis of a wide range of products, candidates should begin to develop knowledge and understanding of the broader issues for the designer such as: environmental sustainability of products and their manufacture, ergonomic and anthropometrics, inclusive design, and consumer safety. Candidates should have a good understanding of the methods by which materials and components can be manipulated to manufacture products. Through study and first-hand experience in practical project work, candidates will also develop knowledge of the health and safety issues relevant to working with materials. Coursework projects may also provide an opportunity for students to learn about the use of computer aided design (CAD) and computer aided manufacture (CAM), and the use of basic quality control measures. For more information contact: sixthformadmin@desborough-college.net

Drama & Theatre Curriculum Leader: Mrs K Turner

Entry Requirements: GCSE Grade 6

Course Information 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 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 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 Written examination - 40%  Live theatre evaluation – choice of performance.  Practical exploration and study of a complete text – focusing on how this can be realised for performance.  Practical exploration and interpretation of another complete performance text, in light of a chosen practitioner – focusing on how this text could be reimagined for a contemporary audience.

For more information contact: sixthformadmin@desborough-college.net

Economics Curriculum Leader: Ms S Neal

Entry Requirements: GCSE Grade 6 in Mathematics & English

Course Information Economics facilitates further study of many subjects. It also provides vital skills for application to apprenticeships or straight into work as it is based on discussion of real-life events and exposes the student to consideration of the economy, politics and world of work and business. We will be following the new AQA Economics Specification A. This approach applies economic theory to support analysis of current economic problems and issues, and encourage students to appreciate the interrelationships between microeconomics and macroeconomics. Students will need to apply their knowledge and understanding to both familiar and unfamiliar contexts in the assessments. Most students will not sit external AS examinations as routine but we will co-teach the GCE Economics material in such a way that students considering not proceeding to Year 2 of the course could sit the AS and end their study of Economics at this stage. Internal AS examinations will be sat by all Economics students at the end of Year 12 and, while they will not contribute to a final A level grade, they will inform UCAS predictions. In the second year, students will be examined on ALL the topics from the two years of study. Course content 4.1 Individuals, firms, markets and market failure 4.2 The national and international economy

For more information contact: sixthformadmin@desborough-college.net

English Language & Literature Curriculum Leader: Miss L Hutchison

Entry Requirements: GCSE Grade 6 (level 5 considered with CL approval)

Course Information The WJEC Eduqas A Level in English language and literature encourages learners to develop their interest and enjoyment of English as they:      

develop and apply their knowledge of literary analysis and evaluation develop and apply their understanding of the concepts and methods appropriate for the analysis and study of the language use linguistic and literary approaches in their reading and interpretation of texts, showing how the two disciplines can relate to each other engage creatively and critically with a wide range of texts explore the ways in which texts relate to each other and the contexts in which they are produced and received undertake independent and sustained studies to develop their skills as producers and interpreters of language.

Component 1: Poetry and Prose Written examination: 2 Hours 30 % of qualification Section A: Poetry (open-book, clean copy) One question from a choice of two based on the WJEC English Language and Literature Pre-1914 Poetry anthology plus an unseen text published post-1914 Section B: Prose (open-book, clean copy) One question from a choice of two, presented in two parts, based on the reading of a prose fiction text from a prescribed list Component 2: Drama Written examination: 2 hours 30% of qualification Section A: Shakespeare (closed-book) One compulsory extract-based task and one essay question from a choice of two based on reading of a Shakespeare play from a prescribed list Section B: Post-1900 Drama (closed-book) One question from a choice of two based on the reading of one play from a prescribed list Component 3: Non-Literacy Texts Written examination: 2 hours 20% of Qualification Section A: Comparative analysis of spoken non-literary texts Comparative analysis of three unseen spoken language non-literary texts Section B: Non-literary text study (closed book) One two-part question based on the reading of a non-literary text selected from a prescribed list Component 4: Critical and Creative Genre Study Non-exam assessment: 3200-3500 words 20% of qualification Section A: Genre Study A critical and sustained study of a prose genre Section B: Related Creative Writing Two writing assignments (One literary/one non-literary) For more information contact: sixthformadmin@desborough-college.net

French Curriculum Leader: Mrs H Gerber

Entry Requirements: GCSE Grade 6

Course Information 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. Language A-Levels also remain 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 both years 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 A-Level are separate qualifications

For more information contact: sixthformadmin@desborough-college.net

Further Maths Curriculum Leader: Mrs A Morgan

Entry Requirements: GCSE Grade 8 (level 7 will be considered with CL approval)

Course Information Students who choose to study Further Mathematics are eager mathematicians, interested in gaining more depth and breadth in their study. The course will give them an opportunity to investigate more advanced areas of the subject, but also discover aspects of its application to other fields (for example, decision mathematics, advanced mechanics or statistics). The depth of this course generally helps students strengthen their standards in A-Level Mathematics which is studied in parallel. It provides a smooth transition between secondary and higher education: degrees which are rich in mathematical content are a natural progression of this course. Finally, for students who enjoy mathematics, this course is fun! It is demanding, but the rigour required to succeed makes it a highly regarded A-Level when applying to university or for employment. Course Description The A2 Mathematics course is a linear course taught over two years. The Further Mathematics course builds on the A2 Mathematics A-level, with 50% of the course content being common across all boards and includes: proof, complex numbers and matrices, further algebra and functions, further calculus, further vectors, polar coordinates, hyperbolic functions, differential equations â&#x20AC;&#x201C; all fundamental to any STEM degrees. The remaining content will be an extension of Mechanics, Statistics, Pure and/or Decision Mathematics Assessment In Year 12 you will complete regular internal examinations as well as an end of year mock exam. In Year 13 you will sit six hours of exams which will make up your final grade. Higher Education and Possible Careers Further Mathematics is a highly regarded A-Level as it is perceived as an indicator of students who are very committed to their studies, are highly interested in mathematics as a discipline, and demonstrate outstanding analytical skills. Careers may include Physics, Engineering, Computer Science, and mathematics, as well as Economics and Finance.

For more information contact: sixthformadmin@desborough-college.net

Geography Curriculum Leader: Mr T Myatt

Entry Requirements: GCSE Grade 6

Course Information Geography A-level encourages students to gain enjoyment, satisfaction and a sense of achievement as they develop their knowledge and understanding of the subject. The A Level course enables students to be inspired by their geographical understanding, to engage critically with real world issues and places, and to apply their geographical knowledge, theory and skills to the world around them. The Edexcel specification pushes forward the frontiers of A level geography. It is a refreshing progression from GCSE that aims to challenge and inspire you by teaching global issues which are relevant to you as students of today. Course content Paper 1: Dynamic Landscapes – 2Hr 15 Min - 105 Mark Exam (30%)    

Tectonic Processes and Hazards Landscape Systems, Processes and Change - Costal Landscapes The Water Cycle and Water Security The Carbon Cycle and Energy Security

Paper 2: Dynamic Places - 2Hr 15 Min - 105 Mark Exam (30%)    

Globalisation Regenerating Places Superpowers Migration, Identity and Sovereignty

Paper 3 – Synoptic Paper - 2Hr 15 Min - 70 Mark Exam (20%)  

No new teaching – bringing together of a range of course content Resources book provided

Independent Investigation (20%)   

4,000 word independent investigation Non-examined 4 Day fieldtrip to Slapton Sands, Devon.

For more information contact: sixthformadmin@desborough-college.net

German Curriculum Leader: Mrs H Gerber

Entry Requirements: GCSE Grade 6

For more information contact: sixthformadmin@desborough-college.net

History Curriculum Leader: Mrs C Murphy

Entry Requirements: GCSE Grade 6 (or 6 in English Language)

Course Information History at Desborough is an increasingly popular subject. The course has been been designed to help students understand the significance of historical events, the role of individuals in history and the nature of change over time. The A Level will help them to gain a deeper understanding of the past through political, social, economic and cultural perspectives. Further opportunities to take part in a trip to the USA and meet former members of US Congress are also available. Course content: Paper 1: The Making of a Superpower: USA, 1865–1975 (40% of A Level) From Civil War to World War, 1865–1920  The Era of Reconstruction and the Gilded Age, 1865–1890  Populism, Progressivism and Imperialism, 1890–1920 Crises and the Rise to World Power, 1920–1975  Crisis of identity, 1920–1945  The Superpower, 1945–1975 A Level Component 2: The English Revolution, 1625–1660 (40% of A Level) The Origins of the English Civil War, 1625–1642  The emergence of conflict and the end of consensus, 1625–1629  An experiment in Absolutism, 1629–1640  The crisis of Parliament and the outbreak of the First Civil War, 1640–1642 Radicalism, Republic and Restoration, 1642–1660  War and radicalsm, 1642–1646  The disintegration of the Political Nation, 1646–1649  Experiments in Government and Society, 1648–1660 A Level Component 3: Coursework. (20% of A Level) A piece of coursework on a subject of the student’s choice.

For more information contact: sixthformadmin@desborough-college.net

Mathematics Curriculum Leader: Mrs A Morgan

Entry Requirements: GCSE Grade 7

Course Information The A2 Mathematics course is a linear course taught over two years. Course Content The A-Level consists of three parts: 

Pure Mathematics - proof, algebra, graphs, sequences, trigonometry, logarithms, calculus, vectors, functions, numerical methods and differential equations.



Statistics - working with data from a sample to make inferences about a population, probability calculations, using a binomial distribution as a model, statistical hypothesis testing and the Normal distribution.



Mechanics - kinematics, working with forces, Newton’s laws, motion under gravity, friction and simple moments.

Assessment In Year 12 you will complete regular internal examinations as well as an end of year mock exam. 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 Sciences, 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. A-Level in Mathematics also is referred to as one of the lead “facilitating subjects” – a subject that keep the widest range of degree courses open.

For more information contact: sixthformadmin@desborough-college.net

Music Curriculum Leader: Mrs N McFarlane

Entry Requirements: GCSE Grade 6/Merit 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 Course Information 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%).

For more information contact: sixthformadmin@desborough-college.net

Photography Curriculum Leader: Miss C Rhodes

Entry Requirements: GCSE Grade 6 in Art (or strong portfolio of work), and 5 in English. Course Information Course Description Photography is both a form of communication and a means capturing a moment in a specific time period or highlighting an important event. It is an individual momentary response; it encourages imagination and sensitivity, analytical ability and individual development of practical skill. Course Content A Level Photography is now assessed after two full years of study â&#x20AC;&#x201C; there is no AS qualification at the end of Year 12. This means that students have the opportunity to develop skills and techniques in their portfolio throughout the 1st year of study, ready for examination in Year 13.The Year 12 scheme of work will involve a programme of integrated practical, critical and theoretical study using a variety of processes and students produce critical/contextual work in one or more areas of study, for example portraiture, landscape photography, still-life photography, documentary photography and photojournalism. In Component 1 you will undertake further practical investigations, evidencing critical and contextual understanding whilst creating new, innovative ways of processing a photograph using a range of techniques. Component 2 is an independent extended project linked to your interests and technical development. This includes a 1000 -3000 word critical essay that references historical Photography practice. Assessment Component 1 is a personal investigation; this will include a written element of between 10003000 words which has a separate mark scheme. Coursework represents 60% of final grade. Component 2 is an externally set assignment given by the examination board, Edexcel. Examination is completed after an 8 week preparation period and a 15 hour sustain exam.

For more information contact: sixthformadmin@desborough-college.net

Physics Curriculum Leader: Miss R Ellis

Entry Requirements: GCSE Grade 6, and 7 in Mathematics

Course Information 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

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 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 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 companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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

For more information contact: sixthformadmin@desborough-college.net

Politics Curriculum Leader: Mrs C Murphy

Entry Requirements: GCSE Grade 6 in History or English Language

Course Information Politics A level is an increasingly popular subject. 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. In addition the specification now includes the opportunity to study the development of political ideas from John Stuart Mill and Mary Wollstonecraft to Marx and Crosland. 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.This section includes a section on comparative politics. Political Ideas: 3 compulsory units, Conservatism, Liberalism and Socialism. Plus a further optional unit from the following: Nationalism, multi-culturalism, feminism, anarchism or ecologism.

For more information contact: sixthformadmin@desborough-college.net

Psychology Curriculum Leader: Mrs H Gerber Entry Requirements: GCSE Grade 6 in Maths, Statistics or Science. Grade 5 in English Language

Course Information 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 Psychodynamic, 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 the AS material, in addition you will be expected to apply your understanding of Approaches and Research Methods to the following: Forensic Psychology, Schizophrenia and Relationships. There is also a component dealing with controversies in Psychology such as sexism, cultural bias, the use of non-human animals in research, and the ethical costs of research.

Assessment At AS Level you will sit two exams and have mini tests in lessons. At A-Level you will sit 3 exams in the summer of Year 2 and write regular timed essays .

For more information contact: sixthformadmin@desborough-college.net

Sports Science (PE) Curriculum Leader: Mr T Hamilton

Entry Requirements: GCSE Grade 6, with a 5+ in theory exams. And grade 5 in Science and English Course Information OCR’s A-Level in Sports Science 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

For more information contact: sixthformadmin@desborough-college.net

Ask yourself: How interesting and enjoyable have I found this subject at GCSE? -

Your motivation and drive for success at A-Level will be significantly improved if you are interested in and enjoy what you are studying

What would I like to do after Sixth Form? -

Is this a brand new subject to me? -

How do your current GCSE predictions look? -

Consider your next steps when selecting you’re A-Levels. Do they fit with your possible university, apprenticeship or employment aspirations?

What do current students think about this course? -

Ask current sixth form students about your choices; what have they enjoyed and what have they found most challenging?

If so, do everything you can to ‘get a feel’ for the subject. Why not ask to visit an ALevel lesson?

The entry requirements are there for an important reason, and are based on years of teaching experience. You need to be realistic about your next steps, and not pin all your hopes on one option.

Do I know what units I will study, and how I will be assessed? -

This will give you a good idea about whether a course really appeals to you or not, and what your two years studying it might be like. If you don’t yet have all the details you need, then get in touch!

Desborough College Shoppenhangers Road Maidenhead SL6 2QB Tel: 01628 634505

Fax: 01628 639263

Email: sixthformadmin@desborough-college.net Web: www.desborough.org.uk Principal: Mr P Frazer

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