HCH A Level Options Brochure, 2024-2026

Sixth Form

Contents

Welcome from Rob, Director of Sixth Form

A Level Exam Results

University Destinations and Career Pathways

A Level Options at Hampton Court House

Art & Photography

Biology

Chemistry

Computer Science

Drama

Economics

English Literature

French Geography

History

Latin

Mathematics & Further Mathematics

Music

Philosophy

Physics

Politics

Psychology

Spanish

EPQ (Extended Project Qualification)

Transition to Higher Education

Welcome from Rob

Director of Sixth Form

I am delighted to welcome you to the Sixth Form at Hampton Court House. Here at HCH, Sixth Form is an invaluable step towards adulthood, and we aim to provide you with an outstanding, tailored education to prepare you for life beyond school

When I look back on my own Sixth Form days, I remember them as pretty magical Suddenly, you ’ re exclusively studying subjects you chose, to a whole new level of depth Every stage of a good education opens up new vistas of realisation of how much is still to discover To me - and I hope to you - that could not be a more exciting prospect

So, as you would expect, Sixth Form is a very different experience from the sort of schooling you will have been used to Every new Year 12 student feels a distinct step up in intellectual challenge compared with GCSE, but this is complemented by a whole new feeling of independence, and a later start than the rest of the school You will have six periods per week of each A Level subject, together with bespoke small-group tuition and guidance from the Sixth Form team That leaves you with a considerable amount of independent study time Using that time productively and well is one of the most valuable lessons you can learn as a Sixth Former

Our priorities for you are threefold First, we are here to help you develop as a socially, morally, culturally and spiritually educated young adult, who can balance independence with hard work and responsibility, work with family and social life Secondly, we will support you in maximising your academic achievement Thirdly, we will give you the very best possible guidance in your move to university and beyond, together with unrivalled opportunities for leadership and co-curricular enrichment

As I am sure you already know, there is something very special about Hampton Court House We know what we do works: in 2023, 40% of our A Level grades were A* or A and pupils enjoyed a 100% Oxbridge and Russell Group application success rate But just as you learn from us, we will learn so much from you You are a vital leader in our community, and I know you will live up to that role in a way which is unique to you We will be here for you all the way

I feel incredibly lucky to be here at HCH; I hope you do too I am so much looking forward to working with you over the coming weeks, months and years

With warmest regards,

Robert Armiger Director of Sixth Form rwa@hchnet co uk

A Level Exam Results

With 40% of all grades being awarded A* / A, soaring above the nationwide average of 25%, Hampton Court House is celebrating another extraordinary year of exam results

London schools

UK independent schools (The Telegraph)

University Destinations & Career Pathways

Courtiers go on to some of the UK’s leading universities and acceptance onto their first-choice courses (the lists below are non-exhaustive)

Destinations

University of Cambridge

London School of Economics

Imperial College London

King’s College London

University of Edinburgh

University of Manchester

University of Bath

University of St Andrews

University of Southampton

Computer Science 2023

University of Exeter

Courses

Biomedical Science

Natural Sciences

Aerospace Engineering

International Development

Mathematics

Economics

Engineering

Music

English

A Level Options

Art & Photography

Art and Photography A Level at Hampton Court House enables students to develop an extensive range of technical skills and explore new processes and media. Drawing, painting, sculpture, photography, textiles, model making, printing and installation, animation and film are the areas covered over the A Level course.

Assessment structure

Component 1

Component 2

A practical investigation (1000 - 3000 word illustrated essay, 60%)

Coursework project (alongside a final piece created during a 15 hour exam, 40%)

Degree and career pathways

A-level Art and Photography lay excellent foundations for a career in the creative industries, idea development skills, the ability to 'think outside the box' and the observational skills learnt through this subject are considered valuable in a whole spectrum of professions. There are many art-related career paths that Art A-levels can ultimately lead to, although even for those students focusing on more scientific subjects, Art can provide a welcome and useful contrast that equips them with a complementary set of skills.

Biology

Eve Blackwood Head of Art

eb@hchnet.co.uk

.

Biology involves the study of a wide range of exciting topics, ranging from molecular biology to the study of ecosystems from microorganisms to mammoths. A Level Biology covers the following topics: biological molecules, cells, organism substance exchange, genetic information, variations and relationships, energy transfer, organism response to internal and external environmental changes, populations, evolution and the control of gene expression.

Assessment structure

Practical assessments

Paper 1

Paper 2

Paper 3

Degree and career pathways

A minimum of 12 assessed practicals throughout the course

Topics 1 - 4 (2 hours, 35%)

Topics 5 - 8 (2 hours, 35%)

Topics 1 - 8 (2 hours, 30%)

Biology A Level can lead to careers in medicine, research, biotechnology, environmental science, pharmacology, forensic science, genetics counseling, healthcare administration, veterinary science, conservation and education offering opportunities to explore the intricacies of life sciences and contribute to advancements in various sectors

Thomas McCarthy-Ward

Head of Science

tjmw@hchnet.co.uk

A Level Options

Chemistry

Chemistry provides an important foundation for a vast array of scientific disciplines and careers. Topics covered include: atomic structure, amount of substance, bonding, energetics, kinetics, equilibria, thermodynamics, elements and periods of periodic table, organic chemistry, practical assays,

Assessment structure

Practical assessments

Paper 1

Paper 2

Paper 3

Degree and career pathways

A minimum of 12 assessed practicals throughout the course

Inorganic and physical chemistry (2 hours, 35%)

Organic and physical chemistry (2 hours, 35%)

General (2 hours, 30%)

Chemistry A Level can lead to careers in pharmaceuticals, chemical engineering, research, environmental science, healthcare, or further studies in chemistry or related fields, offering opportunities to contribute to advancements in various industries.

Computer Science

Thomas McCarthy-Ward Head of Science

tjmw@hchnet.co.uk

The course will provide an opportunity for students to be creative, innovative, collaborative while developing their own individual project skills. Taking the Computer Science A Level at Hampton Court House opens up myriad job prospects in this digital age

Assessment structure

Paper 1

Paper 2

Paper 3

Computer systems (2.5 hours, 40%)

Algorithms and programming (2.5 hours, 40%)

Non-examined assessment project (20%)

Degree and career pathways

Computer Science A Level can lead to careers in software development, cybersecurity, data analysis, AI, and more, or further studies in computer science or related fields, offering opportunities for technological innovation and advancement

Andrew Evans

Head of Computer Science

aev@hchnet.co.uk

A Level Options

Drama

Our A Level Drama and Theatre programme immerses students in the practical and theoretical aspects of theatrical expression Through creating, performing, and analysing drama, students develop their creativity, independence, and understanding of various theatrical styles and contexts They learn to integrate research and analysis from live productions into their own work, while also experiencing the collaborative nature of theatre-making

Assessment structure

Written exam

Practical coursework

Practical exam

Degree and career pathways

Drama & theatre (3 hours, 40%)

Creating original drama (30%)

Making theatre (30%)

Drama A Level can lead to careers in acting, directing, playwriting, theatre production, education, casting, arts administration, therapy, criticism, design, stage management, or further studies in theatre, performing arts, or related disciplines

Economics

Alice Goodman

Director of Performing Arts ago@hchnet co uk

“Economics is concerned with how society sets about meeting people’s demands for things they want to consume ” - Prof John Sloman The fascinating Economics A Level course at Hampton Court House covers financial markets and government policy to supply, demand, economic theory alongside micro, macro and international economics

Assessment structure

Paper 1

Paper 2

Paper 3

Markets and business behaviour (2 hours, 35%)

The national and global economy (2 hours, 35%)

Microeconomics and macroeconomics (2 hours, 30%)

Degree and career pathways

Economics A Level can pave the way for careers in finance, banking, consulting, policy analysis, market research, data analysis, or further studies in economics, business administration, or related fields

Tom Roberts

Head of Humanities twr@hchnet co uk

A Level Options

English Literature

English Literature at Hampton Court House covers the comprehensive array of essential concepts and skills including argument, reference and technical understanding, analysis of language, structure and form, contextual analysis, comparative analysis and appreciation of alternative views and critical perspectives

Assessment structure

Paper 1

Paper 2(B)

Non-examined assessment

Degree and career pathways

Love through the ages (3 hours)

Texts in shared contexts: modern times (2 5 hours)

Independent critical study: texts across time (2500 words)

English Literature A Level can lead to careers in writing, publishing, journalism, editing, teaching, advertising, public relations, content creation, library sciences, academia, or further studies in literature, creative writing, journalism, or related fields, offering opportunities for storytelling and critical analysis

French

Chloe Fabregas

Head of English

cfa@hchnet co uk

French at Hampton Court House is centred around an authentic cultural and native-speaking environment The A Level programme covers Francophone societies and the changes, cultures, challenges and politics therein, in addition to the study of French film and literature

Assessment structure

Paper 1 Paper 2

Paper 3

Reading and listening comprehension (2 5 hours)

Writing (2 hours)

Oral exam (approx 25 minutes)

Degree and career pathways

French A Level can lead to careers in translation, teaching, diplomacy, journalism, tourism, international business, and more, or further studies in French language and literature

Clarisse Gheur

Head of Languages

clg@hchnet co uk

A Level Options

Geography

From computer-based mapping and working with data to problem solving and field work, Geography A Level at Hampton Court House prepares students to be forward-thinking and futureready global citizens

Assessment structure

Paper 1

Paper 2

Paper 3

Non-examined assessment

Degree and career pathways

Physical (2 hours 15 mins, 30%)

Human (2 hours 15 mins, 30%)

Synoptic investigation (2 hours 15 mins, 20%) 3-4,000 word investigation (20%)

Geography A Level can lead to careers in urban planning, environmental consulting, cartography, GIS analysis, conservation, disaster management, sustainable development, tourism, logistics, or further studies in geography, environmental science, urban planning, or related fields, offering opportunities to understand and address global challenges

Tom Roberts

Head of Humanities

twr@hchnet co uk

The fascinating History course covers the following historical periods and themes: Estuary Britain and the crisis of monarchy, the Cold War (c 1945 - 1991) and the historical investigation on the African American Civil Rights Movement History

Assessment structure

Paper 1

Paper 2

Non-examined assessment

Degree and career pathways

Breadth study (2 hours 30 mins, 40%)

Depth study (2 hour 30 mins, 40%)

Historical investigation (4,500 word enquiry, 20%)

History A Level can lead to careers in teaching, museum curation, archival work, historical research, journalism, law, public policy, heritage management, publishing, or further studies in history, archaeology, archival studies, or related fields, offering opportunities to explore the past and its impact on the present

Tom Roberts

Head of Humanities twr@hchnet co uk

A Level Options

Latin

The OCR A Level Latin course is a comprehensive programme designed to cultivate transferable skills while deepening understanding of the Latin language and its rich historical context This course aims to inspire a lifelong passion for the Classical world by offering an engaging curriculum that explores ancient literature, values, and society

Assessment structure

Paper 1

Paper 2 Paper 3

Paper 4

Unseen translation (1 hour 45 mins, 33%)

Prose composition or comprehension (1 hour 15 mins, 17%)

Prose literature (2 hours, 25%)

Verse literature (2 hours, 25%)

Degree and career pathways

Studying Latin can open doors to careers in academia, law, linguistics, translation, archaeology, classical studies, publishing, library sciences, or further studies in Latin, ancient history, classics, or related fields, offering opportunities to delve into the ancient world and its influence on modern society

Mathematics

Victoria Rwabeh

Teacher of Latin vrw@hchnet co uk

A mix of Pure and Applied Mathematics, pure Mathematics covers topics such as algebra, graphs, calculus and trigonometry Applied Mathematics is a combination of Mechanics and Statistics

Assessment structure

Paper 1 Paper 2

Paper 3

Pure unit (2 hours, 33%)

Pure & mechanics unit (2 hours, 33%)

Pure & statistics unit (2 hours, 33%)

Degree and career pathways

Mathematics A Level can lead to careers in finance, engineering, data analysis, computer science, actuarial science, statistics, operations research, education, cryptography, or further studies in mathematics, applied mathematics, or related fields, offering opportunities to solve complex problems and make significant contributions across various industries

Nick Edwards

Head of Maths ned@hchnet co uk

A Level Options

Further Mathematics

Taken alongside A Level Mathematics, Further Mathematics is designed to stretch and challenge able mathematicians introducing new techniques and concepts such as complex numbers and matrices. Further Mathematics provides excellent preparation for degree courses in Mathematics and other mathematical subjects.

Assessment structure

Year 13 4 units (90 minutes each)

Degree and career pathways

Further Mathematics A Level can open doors to careers in advanced research, mathematical modeling, finance, engineering, computer science, cryptography, data analysis, actuarial science, statistics, or further studies in mathematics, theoretical physics, engineering, or related fields, offering opportunities to tackle intricate mathematical challenges and drive innovation in various industries

Music

Nick Edwards

Head of Maths ned@hchnet.co.uk

The A level music course is designed to allow learners to pursue their own musical interests. Learners develop skills in the three distinct but related disciplines of performing, composing and appraising, whilst having flexibility to specialise in either performing or composing. Learners may choose to apportion 10% of their assessment to either performing or composing as an in-depth study. Learners will engage with both classical and popular music. All learners will study the development of the symphony, engaging with landmark orchestral repertoire, which is important in developing knowledge and understanding of musical elements and language in context.

Assessment structure

Component 1

Component 2

Component 3

Performing (25-35%)

Composing (Non-examined assessment)

Appraising (2 hours 15 mins, approx 40%)

Degree and career pathways

Studying Music at A Level can lead to careers as a musician, composer, music teacher, music therapist, sound engineer, music producer, conductor, arts administrator, music journalist, or further studies in music performance, composition, musicology, or related fields, offering opportunities for artistic expression and cultural enrichment

Steffi Carter

Head of Academic Music sca@hchnet.co.uk

A Level Options

Philosophy

Philosophy is the study of knowledge, and how we know things. It is a deeply interesting, analytical and demanding subject. While many Philosophy A levels (usually named Philosophy & Ethics) are essentially extended Religious Studies qualifications, our offer is academic philosophy intended as a suitable groundwork for undergraduate study. You will read Aristotle, Plato, Kant, Descartes and Mill, among many others, and learn how to think as a philosopher.

Assessment structure

Paper 1

Paper 2

Ethics & epistemology (3 hours, 50%).

Metaphysics of mind & metaphysics of God (3 hours, 50%)

Degree and career pathways

Philosophy A Level can pave the way for careers in academia, law, ethics consulting, journalism, public policy, writing, research, critical thinking, education, or further studies in philosophy, law, political science, or related fields, offering opportunities to explore fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, and morality

Physics

Tom Roberts

Head of Humanities

twr@hchnet.co.uk

Physics at Hampton Court House is underpinned by the key concepts with optional specialisms. Topics covered include: measurements and their errors, particles and radiation, waves, mechanics and materials, electricity, further mechanics and thermal physics, fields and their consequences and nuclear physics. Optional specialisms include astrophysics, medical physics, engineering physics, turning points and electronics.

Assessment structure

Practical assessments

Paper 1

Paper 2

Paper 3

Degree and career pathways

A minimum of 12 assessed practicals throughout the course

Periodic motion (2 hours, 34%)

Thermal physics (2 hours, 34%)

Practical skills and data analysis (2 hours, 32%)

Physics A Level can lead to careers in research, engineering, aerospace, telecommunications, renewable energy, medical physics, data analysis, education, or further studies in physics, engineering, astrophysics, or related fields, offering opportunities to understand the fundamental laws of the universe and drive technological advancements

Thomas McCarthy-Ward Head of Science

tjmw@hchnet.co.uk

A Level Options

Politics

Politicians have a huge power over us, but how much power do we have over our politicians? Studying A Level Politics will provide insight into political beliefs central to an understanding of the modern world. Analytical and evaluative skills will be developed in relation to awe inspiring topics prevalent in this current, fraught political climate.

Assessment structure

Paper 1

Paper 2

Paper 3

UK Politics (2 hours, 33.3%)

UK Government (2 hours, 33.3%)

Comparative politics (2 hours, 33.3%)

Degree and career pathways

Studying Politics at A Level can open doors to careers in government, public administration, international relations, diplomacy, political consulting, journalism, law, advocacy, non-profit organisations, or further studies in politics, international studies, law, or related fields, offering opportunities to engage with pressing societal issues and shape public policy

Psychology

Tom Roberts

Head of Humanities twr@hchnet.co.uk

Psychology A Level covers a range of interesting areas of research including human and animal attachment to psychopathology, for example the development of phobias and OCD. A Level Psychology at Hampton Court House is a brilliant introduction into the scientific study of mind and human behaviour.

Assessment structure

Paper 1 Paper 2

Paper 3

Introductory topics (2 hours, 33.3%)

Psychology in context (2 hours, 33.3%)

Issues and options in psychology

Degree and career pathways

Psychology A Level can lead to careers in clinical psychology, counselling, research, human resources, education, marketing, social work, forensic psychology, health psychology, or further studies in psychology, psychiatry, counselling psychology, or related fields, offering opportunities to understand human behaviour and contribute to individual and societal well-being

Laraib Saeed

Head of Psychology lsa@hchnet.co.uk

A Level Options

Spanish

Taught by expert native speakers, topics covered include the Spanish Civil War, Spain under Franco and the transition from a dictatorship to democracy and the evolution of Spanish society Additionally, themes such as multiculturalism, immigration, politics, culture and art in the Spanishspeaking world

Assessment structure

Paper 1

Paper 2

Paper 3

Reading and listening comprehension (40%)

Writing (30%)

Oral exam (30%)

Degree and career pathways

Studying Spanish at A Level can open doors to careers in translation, interpretation, international business, tourism, diplomacy, teaching, journalism, cultural exchange programs, hospitality management, or further studies in Spanish language and literature, offering opportunities for crosscultural communication and global engagement

EPQ (Extended Project Qualification

Clarisse Gheur

Head of Languages

clg@hchnet co uk

The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) will help students prepare for the rigorous study required for success at the UK’s leading universities Developing independent research skills, the ability to summarise and analyse different texts and produce extended pieces of work are highly valued by leading academic institutions

A successfully completed EPQ is viewed favourably by the country's leading universities and employers At Hampton Court House, every student in Year 12 commences the EPQ through developing an initial idea, undertaking preliminary research and completing a work plan in the Autumn Term Students further develop their idea at the end of Year 12, at which point students have the option of whether to take their EPQ through to accreditation

Rob Armiger

Director of Sixth Form

rwa@hchnet co uk

Transition to Higher Education

Our Sixth Form is intended as a stepping-stone to post-18 independence. Sixth Formers have a lot of autonomy, within a framework of first-class care and support.

In Sixth Form, students have several weekly small-group tutorials, typically in groups of around five. These focus on a range of skills, knowledge and understanding required for university, including UCAS, independent living, relationships, and academic mentoring. The sessions are as follows:

a weekly pastoral session with the form tutor;

a weekly careers / UCAS session with Dr. Krissie West, our Director of HE Transition;

a weekly academic/co-curricular tutorial with either the Head of Sixth Form or another senior member of staff.

All Sixth Formers are expected to work towards the EPQ (Extended Project Qualification) - an A Level in its own right, which is undertaken independently as academic preparation for undergraduate study. This is highly-valued by the top universities.

Sixth Formers are expected to play a full and active role in the life of the wider school, including leadership of younger students, running and participating in clubs, delivering assemblies etc.

We are part of a programme called Future Researchers, in partnership with Nebula Research. Students participate in a real academic research programme, under the direction of a Lead Professor, and are credited as co-authors on publication.

Sixth formers have exclusive access to their own common room, IT suites, classrooms and music tech room.

Open Mornings held weekly during term-time. Visit our website for further information and to register your place.