Sixth Form Guide 2018-19

KING EDWARD VI SOUTHAMP TON

Sixth Form Guide

Contents

From the Director of Sixth Form 4 Government A Level Reform 5 Private Study in the Lower Sixth 6 The Extended Project 7 Open Forum and Foundation Studies 8 A Level Subject Options 9 Admission 10 Curriculum 11 Art and Design - Fine Art 12 Art and Design - Photography 13 Biology 14 15 Business 16 Chemistry Classics 17 Classical Civilisation 18 19 Computer Science Design and Technology 20 21 Drama and Theatre Studies Economics 22 23 English Language English Literature 24 French 25 Geography 26 German 27 History 28 29 Mathematics Music 30 Music Technology 31 Physics 32 Psychology 33 Religious Studies 34 Spanish 35 Sports Science 36 Questions Answered 37

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Co-Curriculum 39 Beyond the Classroom 40 Participate 41 Think 42 43 Compete 44 Lead Serve 45 Duke of Edinburgh’s Award 46 47 Express Explore 48 49 Key Dates

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From the Director of Sixth Form

The Sixth Form years are such an exciting and formative time, and it is a real pleasure to lead students through these years and see them develop into confident, well-informed and well-rounded young adults, ready to move on to the next stage of their lives.

In terms of the curriculum, so many students blossom when they are able to choose and concentrate on the subjects that really light their fire. We offer a full range of twentytwo subjects in the Sixth Form at King Edward’s, all academically rigorous, and all taught in small groups of around ten to twelve students by specialist teaching staff. For some students narrowing the choice of subjects is difficult, whilst for others the choice is clear.

All students are encouraged to make their choices against the three touchstones of enjoyment, ability, and fit with future higher education and career plans.

The academic curriculum is enriched at King Edward’s through the Foundation Studies programme in which all students participate.

It combines a core set of life skills in areas such as politics, personal finance, presenting and public speaking, road-readiness for young drivers, and university and career planning, with optional courses in areas such as cookery, travel safety, art appreciation, and even powerboating and drone building.

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Time spent in the classroom is not the only vital part of the King Edward’s Sixth Form experience.

Time and again, former pupils tell me that some of their most enduring and fondest memories are from participating on the sports field, school trips and expeditions, charitable endeavours, performing on stage or in the concert hall, leading assemblies or helping younger students develop academically and socially.

to establish the characteristics of confidence with humility, and the desire to contribute to the wider communities in which we live.

I hope you like what you see in this guide, and I look forward to meeting you and talking more about what we’re doing in the Sixth Form at King Edwards to ensure it remains a fun and rewarding place to be.

Mr ND Culver

These experiences are fun and enriching for their own sake but, in addition, employers increasingly tell us that in a crowded field of graduate applicants, it is the skills and character formed in opportunities outside the classroom that mark out the most highly prized employment candidates.

The Sixth Form is a time for growth and development both in and out of the classroom.

Here at King Edward’s we aim to provide a rich diet that allows you to reach your academic potential, but also to learn to win with grace and lose with dignity,

King Edward VI School . Wilton Road . Southampton . Hampshire SO15 5UQ

Government A Level Reform

The structure of the new A levels has been much publicised in the media over the last two years.

Principally the full A level has become a two year linear course with more synoptic assessment and all assessment at the end of the Upper Sixth.

The new AS course has been entirely decoupled from the A level, so that the marks do not count towards the final full A level grade. This means that any student sitting an AS examination and then continuing on to the full A level will be re-examined on that AS content and the AS exam grade will not count. The AS course will continue to exist as a stand-alone qualification only with all grades needing to be declared on UCAS forms.

At King Edward’s it is unlikely that we will examine any student for an AS examination in the Lower Sixth.

The Government has decided to take a staged approach to reform with a first group of subjects changing in September 2015 and the remaining changing in 2016 and 2017.

At King Edward’s we will teach and examine all subjects on a two year linear system. It is unlikely that we will externally examine any course at the end of the Lower Sixth, other than those yet to reform (Classical Civilisation, Design Technology, Mathematics, Further Mathematics and Music Technology). These will retain their external assessment in the summer examination season of the Lower Sixth.

All subjects will be internally examined at the end of the Lower Sixth in order to help determine progress and assist with Upper Sixth choices.

The Two Routes for Sixth Form Studies Route 1 Three full Advanced level subjects

Route 2 Four full Advanced level subjects

You choose four subjects to study in the Lower Sixth, then decide in the Spring/Summer term of the Lower Sixth year which three to continue to full Advanced level in the Upper Sixth. If you follow this route, you will leave the Sixth Form with three full Advanced level qualifications.

You choose four subjects to study in the Lower Sixth, and continue with all to full Advanced level in the Upper Sixth. If you follow this route, you will leave the Sixth Form with four full Advanced level qualifications.

Open Forum, Foundation Studies and the Extended Project These offer opportunities for broadening the Sixth Form education experience at King Edward VI School.

More details can be found in the following pages…

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Private Study in the Lower Sixth Form

Your Lower Sixth timetable will be made up as follows:

• 11 class periods in each of your 4 A level subjects • 4 periods of Games • 1 period of Open Forum • 2 periods of Foundation Studies • 9 periods of Private Study

Five of your Private Study periods will appear as blanks on your timetable, four of them have the subject name, your teaching set code and DS1 or DS2 instead of a teacher or room. DS stands for Directed Study.

The aim of Private Study is to provide time for you in School to build on what you do in class in a relatively independent manner - by reading around your subjects, researching topics in depth or preparing written or other assignments. Of course it’s not expected that you will spend every minute of every such period working: you need to take time to have a break and have a coffee, read the paper or talk with friends. But you will be expected to manage your time sensibly and organise your independent work effectively. You will find the Sixth Form study area and the Library & Resources Centre are good places for this kind of study. It may be possible to use other areas, eg Art, DT, Music or IT facilities by arrangement with the appropriate staff.

The teacher-guided nature of the Directed Study periods will help you manage the rest of your Private Study time independently and effectively. If you are uncertain about how best to manage your Private Study time, your tutor and subject teachers will be able to give you good advice.

The difference between the blank Private Study periods and the subject-designated Directed Study periods is that your teachers will have specific expectations about what you will do with that time.

They may set you particular pieces of work to be completed in those periods or expect you to have done some reading or research in them. The key thing is that they - and you - will expect there to be an outcome, which might be a completed piece of work or evidence that you have increased your knowledge or skills.

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King Edward VI School . Wilton Road . Southampton . Hampshire SO15 5UQ

The Extended Project

What is it?

The Extended Project offers an opportunity to use timetabled time to explore in depth an area of academic interest to you, leading to an AS level qualification graded up to A*. The qualification begins at the end of the Lower Sixth year with the aim of completing the Project by January of your Upper Sixth year.

Any student can apply to study for the Extended Project, and the School very strongly recommends it for those applying to competitive

universities who are not continuing with four subjects in the Upper Sixth.

The EP usually takes the form of an extended essay, or minidissertation but it is also possible to base it around a performance or work of art, or an experiment or field study. There are few restrictions on the subject matter, and the choice is down to the individual student in consultation with their appointed supervisor.

Most often students decide to take further an area of one or more of their existing academic subjects.

Alternatively the EP is an excellent way of proving interest in an area that a student wishes to study at university but that is not being taken at A level, for example Law, Politics or Architecture.

Why should you take the Extended Project?

The EP will allow you to research an area of interest in some depth, give you a foretaste of undergraduate study and also demonstrate to universities that you have many of the skills and aptitudes they require.

For example it shows admissions tutors that: • You are interested in your subject and academic work in general • You are willing and able to take on additional study

The Director of Admissions at Cambridge has praised the EP for developing insight, clarity of thought, and analytical ability, and he, along with many senior admissions tutors, encourages candidates to undertake one.

• You have developed important undergraduate study skills: research skills, independent study, planning, critical thinking, reflection / self evaluation

What is involved?

There is a series of taught sessions on issues such as research skills, referencing, evaluating competing arguments, ethical viewpoints, and presentation skills.

Students taking the EP attend these in place of Foundation Studies in the Autumn term of the Upper Sixth. In addition, time is put aside to use the

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excellent facilities at Southampton University library. Students meet regularly with their academic supervisor and are expected to produce an extended piece of writing on their chosen subject and present it to a small audience.

The work is marked internally and moderated externally by Edexcel, the awarding body.

In the 3 years since the inception of the Extended Project at KES, 42% of students taking the qualification have been awarded an A*, 83% of students have gained an A* - A, 94% of students have gained an A* - B and 100% of have achieved A* to C.

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Open Forum and Foundation Studies

Open Forum Open Forum is a programme of presentations, usually given by guest speakers, to the entire Lower or Upper Sixth: these take place in the Dobson Theatre throughout the autumn and spring terms. The Open Forum guest list is continually updated every year to

provide a mixture of reliable favourites and exciting new speakers. Informative, entertaining and inspiring, Open Forum provides students with the opportunity to see the world through the eyes of some extraordinary individuals.

Recent speakers include: Felicity Aston Martha Holmes Mike Hurst Steve Pendleton Freddie Knoller Martin Taylor Erwin James Emma Cole Alan Whitehead Rick Finder

Leader of the largest all female group to ski to the South Pole.

Series producer with the BBC wildlife unit in Bristol.

Guitarist and pop producer.

Ex-infantryman on rebuilding his life after a devastating accident.

Survivor of Auschwitz concentration camp.

Stage hypnosis without hypnotism.

Former convict now a successful writer and prison reformer.

Living with HIV for nearly 20 years.

Local MP. War photographer.

Foundation Studies The Lower Sixth Foundation Studies programme consists of a series of short courses designed to equip students with the key skills necessary for Sixth Form success and to help prepare them for life after school.

The sessions include: • Presentation Skills • Exploring Health and Social Issues • Finance and Budgeting • Introduction to Politics • Digital Skills • Road Ready; a guide to car ownership • Applying to University • Into work; getting a job

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In the Upper Sixth, Foundation Studies is less about the delivery of what we judge to be vital key skills and is more about offering students the chance to learn something new whilst enjoying a break from academic work. Depending on other timetable commitments students may undertake as many as five Foundation Studies courses in the Upper Sixth year. Each course usually takes place over a period of four Tuesday afternoon sessions in the Autumn and Spring term.

Students choose courses from a wide range; some are practical in nature and some more intellectual, but they all are intended to be stimulating and fun.

The courses on offer this year include cookery, dance, digital photography, first aid, team and leadership skills, model rocketry, robotics, philosophy, power boating, self-defence and video editing.

King Edward VI School . Wilton Road . Southampton . Hampshire SO15 5UQ

A Level Subject Options

Choose Four subjects from the list below Art* Biology Business* Chemistry Classical Civilisation* Computer Science* Design Technology* Economics* English Language English Literature French Further Mathematics - see note 3 Geography* German Greek History* Latin Mathematics with Mechanics Mathematics with Statistics Music* Music Technology* Photography* Physics Psychology* Religion, Philosophy and Ethics* Spanish Sports Science* Theatre Studies*

Notes 1. You may study the subjects marked* whether or not you have taken them as GCSE courses. It may be helpful to talk to the head of department about such a choice.

2. You will not normally be allowed to study three new subjects at Advanced Level; in many cases it may be advisable not to choose more than one subject (to follow to full A level) which you have not previously studied at GCSE.

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3. Further Mathematics is only to be chosen as a fourth full Advanced level and must be combined with Mathematics (Mechanics). By choosing it you are committing yourself to following Route 2 and taking four subjects in the Upper Sixth.

4. The availability of subjects is dependent on sufficient uptake, and the School reserves the right to make such amendments as necessary, in response to demand and in the light of practical considerations. We cannot guarantee that all subject combinations will be available.

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Admission

Internal Candidates If you have successfully completed your GCSE/IGCSE courses of study in the Upper School here, we expect you to be able to make the transition to our Sixth Form.

However, in making your A level choices, remember to choose subjects that you enjoy, that you are good at and that are in line with your intentions for higher education.

The School’s policy is that we accept a student to study a subject if he or she has a B grade or higher at GCSE or IGCSE in the relevant subject or its near equivalent unless there are significant mitigating factors. In a number of subjects such as the sciences, mathematics and modern foreign languages it is the expectation of the school that a student achieves at least an A grade at GCSE or IGCSE.

This is to ensure that the student’s knowledge and skills are of a level sufficient to allow access to the subject in the King Edward’s Sixth Form and to offer the realistic prospect of a successful outcome at Advanced level.

New subjects: If you intend to take a new subject in the Sixth Form, you should have done well at GCSE/ IGCSE level in an equivalent subject.

Advice: Talk to your subject teacher before committing yourself to a particular A level, and talk to your tutor about your intended combination of Sixth Form courses. Other sources of advice are Dr Thomas, Head of Upper School, Mr Culver, Director of Sixth Form, Mrs Millar, Director of Higher Education and Mrs CJ Mandley, Head of Careers.

External Candidates If you have successfully completed your GCSE/IGCSE courses of study at your present school, we expect you to be able to make the transition to our Sixth Form.

New subjects: If you intend to take a new subject in the Sixth Form, you should have done well at GCSE/ IGCSE level in an equivalent subject.

However, in making your A level choices, remember to choose subjects that you enjoy, that you are good at and that are in line with your intentions for higher education.

Offers of Sixth Form places will be made following interviews in March 2016. Your offer may be subject to you obtaining a specified grade in one or more subjects.

To study the sciences, Maths, or languages, there is a minimum expectation of an A grade at GCSE.

Transition from Lower Sixth to Upper Sixth The continuation of a subject into the Upper Sixth is dependent on achieving a pass grade in the Lower Sixth examinations. Students must study a minimum of three courses to full A level.

Candidates seeking advice from the School are invited to contact: Head of Upper School: Dr EL Thomas - elt@kes.hants.sch.uk Director of Sixth Form: Mr ND Culver - ndc@kes.hants.sch.uk Director of Higher Education: Mrs LSD Millar - lsdm@kes.hants.sch.uk

Deputy Head (Academic): Dr BM Waymark - bmw@kes.hants.sch.uk General queries about the Sixth Form curriculum should be addressed to Dr Assistant Head (Registrar): Mrs EL Sheppard - els@kes.hants.sch.uk Waymark either by emailing bmw@kes. hants.sch.uk or by calling 023 80704561.

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King Edward VI School . Wilton Road . Southampton . Hampshire SO15 5UQ

Curriculum Guide

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ART AND DESIGN - FINE ART

‘Others have seen what is and asked why.

I have seen what could be and asked why not.’ - Pablo Picasso The AQA Fine art course at KES offers the step up from GCSE into a world where you will experiment and try new ways of working, hopefully to broaden your approach to the subject. This might be through our life drawing classes or simply working on a scale never attempted before.

The Lower Sixth course is experimental in design and leads to a more specialised approach at full A level.

Flair is vital as is a willingness to try new things and a broad minded approach to the creative process.

We have had recent students going to study Architecture with Art obviously being one of their main subjects. The Art studios are designed to give each student a permanent area in which to work and individually tailored resources. The department has a huge library with over 3,500 art and design titles as well as a dedicated A Level studio and a subject specific IT suite.

You will receive continual assessment on your progress and regular informal and formal tutorials.

Lower Sixth During the first year of the course you will have the opportunity to experience drawing, painting, printmaking and photography. This phase provides the basis for one extensive practical project.

Alongside this work you will be expected to build up evidence of your critical awareness of the wider context of art within culture to complement and inform your practical work

Upper Sixth The second year allows for a continuation of the work begun in the first year but with a greater opportunity for, and emphasis on, an increased level of ambition, depth, complexity and sophistication.

If you choose to continue into the second year to complete the full A Level course there are two assessments:

Unit 1

Unit 2

Personal investigation (worth 60%) This is a practical investigation supported by written material.

Students are required to conduct a practical investigation into an idea, issue, concept or theme, supported by written material. The focus of the investigation must be identified independently by the student and must lead to a finished outcome or a series of related finished outcomes.

Externally-Set Assignment (worth 40%). Preparatory period - from 1 February. Your response to externally set questions. This involves a preparation period and 15 hour supervised time.

The investigation should be a coherent, in-depth study that demonstrates the student’s ability to construct and develop a sustained line of reasoning from an initial starting point to a final realisation.

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Head of Department: Mr GL Piggott - glp@kes.hants.sch.uk

ART AND DESIGN - PHOTOGRAPHY

Photography is all around us and has documented the world around us and how we interact with it for 170 years.

The American documentary photographer Dorothea Lange wisely said the ‘The camera is an instrument that teaches people how to see without a camera’.

The AQA Photography course will certainly try and do this as well as looking at the social, cultural and artistic context of photography. We have an extensive art and design library with over 3,500 titles. Trips are arranged so that photographers’ work can be seen in context.

The department has its own IT suite running Adobe Creative Suite as well as an A1 printer and dedicated film scanner. There are also DSLR cameras as well as a range of film cameras.

The Lower Sixth course is experimental in design and leads to a more specialised approach at full A level.

You do not need your own digital or 35mm film camera although both would be useful. It is not a requirement that you have studied Art at GCSE but you will need to be self-motivated as much photography needs in be undertaken out of school time.

During the first year of the course you will have the opportunity to experience both digital and chemical photographic processes. This phase provides the basis for one extensive practical project. Alongside this body of coursework you will be expected to build up evidence of your awareness of the context of photography within culture to complement and inform your practical work.

Upper Sixth The second year allows for a continuation of the work begun in the first year but with a greater opportunity for, and emphasis on, an increased level of ambition, depth, complexity and sophistication.

If you choose to continue into the second year to complete the full A level course there are two assessments:

Unit 1

Unit 2

Personal investigation (worth 60%) This is a practical investigation supported by written material. Students are required to conduct a practical investigation into an idea, issue, concept or theme, supported by written material. The focus of the investigation must be identified independently by the student and must lead to a finished outcome or a series of related finished outcomes. The investigation should be a coherent, in-depth study that demonstrates the student’s ability to construct and develop a sustained line of reasoning from an initial starting point to a final realisation.

Externally-Set Assignment (worth 40%) Preparatory period - from 1 February Your response to externally set questions. This involves a preparation period and 15 hour supervised time.

Head of Department: Mr GL Piggott - glp@kes.hants.sch.uk

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BIOLOGY

We have followed Edexcel’s Salters Nuffield Biology since its inception, KES teachers contributed to the course at its beginning.

This is a course that has been kept up-to-date, dealing with topics in ways that are easily seen as relevant to everyday life.

For students beginning their A level study in 2017, Biology will be in its third year of linear assessment.

We will teach Edexcel Biology A, which maintains the best of the Salters Nuffield approach.

The course aims to: • Use topical contexts which will motivate and excite students • Be accessible, with use of clear language, yet intellectually demanding • Emphasise application of knowledge rather that rote-learning • Have activities and practical work integrated throughout course

Each student has an individual account with ‘snabonline’ which allows you to work at your own pace, using interactive resources. Students can easily follow interests using the links and resources provided.

The department also uses a range of data-logging equipment to go along with more traditional practical work, including dissection.

Practical work is fully integrated into the units, with the use of living materials as a central focus of the activities. It includes practical study of a wide variety of living organisms, including humans and other animals, plants and micro-organisms. The approach mirrors the aims of the course, where investigation and process are emphasised rather than prescriptive methods. With the removal of practical coursework from A level it is worth noting that every other exam board has now adopted the idea of ‘core practicals’, which has been a hallmark of our A level for many years.

• Make use of a full range of teaching and communication approaches • Use student-centred and novel activities that show how biologists think and work in their professional lives

The Edexcel A level course In the Edexcel A level course there are now three final examinations, each worth 100 marks.

Paper 1 Covers material from the LVI course and 2 A level units.

“The Natural Environment and Species Survival”

Fieldwork remains an important aspect of Biology and several core practicals require it. We complete a residential course at the end of the Lower Sixth.

You will be expected to attend this field trip and there will be a cost for accommodation, meals and transport which is around £200.

Paper 2 Covers material from the LVI course and 2 A level units.

“Energy, Exercise and Co-ordination” Paper 3 Covers material from the whole course and includes questions based on a pre-release article.

“General and Practical Applications in Biology”

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Head of Department: Mr ST Aellen - sta@kes.hants.sch.uk

BUSINESS

Business is a subject that is centred in the world around you: in the news, in the choices you face when shopping and when searching for, or working in, a job.

The provision of this course should enable you to develop a critical understanding of the internal workings of a business, and of its role in the economy and broader external environment. You will become aware of the effects of business behaviour from a range of perspectives and a variety of organisations.

Course structure and content

The skills you require

• Managers, leadership and decision making

During the A level course you will be introduced to a number of business theories and models and you will be expected to apply them to real world examples and case studies. You will require a range of skills including decision making and problem solving and, where appropriate, the quantification and management of information. You will be expected to read around the subject matter, and to build up a portfolio of examples of current business behaviour.

The ability to construct logical arguments and to write essays will necessitate sound analytical and evaluative skills. The mathematical and data handling aspects of the course require no more than a competent performance at GCSE/IGCSE Mathematics.

The course being followed is the AQA Business Specification (7132).

The course covers the following topics: • What is business?

• Decision making to improve marketing performance • Decision making to improve operational performance • Decision making to improve financial performance • Decision making to improve human resource performance • Analysing the strategic position of a business • Choosing strategic direction • Strategic methods: how to pursue strategies • Managing strategic change

Assessment Paper 1 2 hours - multiple-choice questions, short answer questions and 2 essays from choice of 4 titles.

Paper 2 2 hours - data response questions.

Paper 3 2 hours - questions based on a business case study.

All three papers can cover all aspects of the course content.

The material studied in the Business course will be suitable preparation for a range of degree courses and careers, especially those related to the worlds of finance and business.

Business draws material from a range of academic disciplines and with its emphasis on applying knowledge to the real world it adopts a more practical approach than many subjects. The subject has a relevance to our lives that makes its study both accessible and useful.

Head of Department: Mr P Sheppard - ps@kes.hants.sch.uk

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CHEMISTRY

Why study chemistry?

There’s much more to Chemistry than white coats, men with beards, stinky laboratories and explosions.

From the moment you are born, and throughout your life, you are surrounded by Chemistry - the air you breathe, the food you eat and the clothes you wear are just a few examples.

Chemistry is the study of substances; what they are made of, how they interact with each other and the role they play in living things. If you have a passion for discovering how things work, using logic and analytical skills, then Chemistry may be the subject for you.

A level Chemistry A level Chemistry gives you the opportunity to develop your appreciation of the topics that you were taught at GCSE/IGCSE level and a chance to find out about new themes and ideas that may have significant impact on society today.

Like all A level subjects, the two year course will be demanding and rigorous but this should allow you to develop a genuine in-depth understanding of this fascinating science.

These practicals will cover a variety of experimental techniques and should allow you to gain confidence in your ability to manipulate apparatus and handle hazardous substances.

Topics covered over the two years include: • Atomic Structure • Bonding • Redox • Energetics Equilibrium • Organic Chemistry • Transition Metals

The specification that we teach at KES is neatly organised into topics with ‘core practicals’ embedded into the teaching.

Assessment Paper 1

Papers 1 and 2 are topic based. Paper 3 will assess across the whole subject and have a practical focus.

Advanced Inorganic and Physical Chemistry (30% weighting)

The three papers will contain the following types of question:

Paper 2 Advanced Organic and Physical Chemistry (30% weighting)

• Multiple choice

Paper 3 General and Practical Principles in Chemistry (40% weighting)

• Extended response (5 marks or more)

• Short response (2 or 3 marks)

Science Practical Endorsement (internally assessed and externally moderated)

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Calculations will make up about 20% of the whole A Level assessment. 15-20% of the total marks will be on practical based questions.

Head of Department: Mr RJ Cross - rjc@kes.hants.sch.uk

CLASSICS

The three Classical Advanced levels that can be studied at the School are Latin, Classical Greek and Classical Civilisation. You can do all three of the subjects or just take any one or two of them, if you wish. All the subjects are highly regarded academic qualifications and you are by no means excluding yourself from the modern world by choosing to study the classical one!

To study Latin and Classical Greek, you will need to have taken these subjects at GCSE.

Latin (OCR) Latin offers a variety of work, which some students find a relief from solely essay-based subjects. Essays are written, but less frequently than in some subjects, and students often like the more self-contained assignments such as translations or preparation of the text. Such assignments train you in a variety of skills which are highly valued: they refine your linguistic ability, stimulate logical thought and sharpen your perceptions in response to the literature. Each text is translated and discussed in class, to develop an understanding of the language, style, background and historical context, as well as to test your own reactions to it as literature. Study of the text spans out into

details of history, society and mythology, and it is far from the narrow study that some assume it to be.

It has rightly been said that it is an excellent subject for those who are interested in everything!

Each text studied has a useful commentary to help you, and you are encouraged to read more widely in translation around the text to broaden your experience of the Classical World. You will be surprised at how relevant it is to the world today. Do not imagine that universities or employers will be unimpressed by this Advanced level. The real situation is quite the reverse.

Classical Greek (OCR) Classical Greek is an extremely well regarded qualification. Few schools are now able to offer the subject at this level, and this will probably be your only opportunity to do it. It is often a shame if those who have made such efforts to gain mastery of the language at GCSE do not continue with it into the Sixth Form, where there is the chance to read magnificent literature, a final reward for all the grammatical pains!

If you like being stretched and made to think, it is one of the best subjects to do.

Assessment The new linear A level gives an opportunity for broader reading of texts, both in the original and in translation to aid background understanding.

Unit

Name

Study Required

Duration

% of Mark

1

Unseen Translation

Texts by a range of prose and verse authors for language practice / grammar teaching

1 hr 45 min

33

2

Prose Composition / Comprehension

Texts by a range of prose and verse authors for language practice/grammar teaching

1 hr 15 min

17

3

Prose Literature

Two prose literature texts in depth / additional literature in translation

2 hr

25

4

Verse Literature

Two verse literature texts in depth / additional literature in translation

2 hr

25

Both the Latin and Classical Greek courses offer you an interesting and challenging way to develop your language skills and your appreciation of the literature of the Classical World, acquiring in the process some understanding of the culture, politics and social life of Rome and/or Greece at significant periods in their history.

If you choose to study Latin and/or Classical Greek at Advanced level you will gain a greater understanding and appreciation of our own civilisation and heritage, and the skills acquired - communication, working with others, problem-solving and improving learning and performance - will be of great benefit, whatever career you may follow.

Head of Department: Mrs JM Meredith - jmm@kes.hants.sch.uk

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CLASSICAL CIVILISATION

This is a wide and interesting Advanced level, good for those who enjoy literature and would like to read some of the greatest ever produced which has had such an influence upon later writers, and good also for those with an interest in Ancient History.

A wide range of material is read, all in translation.

This is a flourishing subject and we have been greatly encouraged by the response it has received since its introduction. A considerable number of students have chosen to continue this subject at University. Several have been surprised to find that something so old can be so lively and so relevant to the study of humanity, which remains remarkably unchanged over a few thousand years!

Classical Civilisation can be taken by anyone from scratch, since no knowledge of the classical languages or any previous study of the Classical World is necessary.

The course offers you the opportunity to study the archaeology, architecture, art, history, literature, philosophy, politics, social history and religion of the Classical World.

AQA Unit

Level

Name

Duration

1

AS*

Classical Civilisation 1

1 hr 30 min

2

AS*

Classical Civilisation 2

1 hr 30 min

3

A2

Classical Civilisation 3

1 hr 30 min

4

A2

Classical Civilisation 4

1 hr 30 min

*to be examined in May/June of the Upper Sixth.

Candidates choose one topic for each unit.

Unit details: • Athenian Democracy, The Life and Times of Cicero, Women in Athens and Rome, Menander and Plautus, Greek Architecture and Sculpture, Aristophanes and Athens

We like to broaden our students’ experience of the ancient world wherever possible, taking trips to plays and museums and using a wide range of other exciting multi-media material.

• Homer (Iliad), Homer (Odyssey), Athenian Vase Painting, Athenian Imperialism, Roman Architecture and Town Planning, The Second Punic War

There is the opportunity to attend the London Festival of Greek Drama, which happens every year in March, lectures organised by the Southampton branch of the Classical Association and Classical performances at Oxford or Cambridge.

• The Persian Wars 490-479 BC, Mycenaean Civilisation, Greek Tragedy, Augustus and the Foundation of the Principate • Tiberius and Claudius, Roman Epic, Alexander, Socrates and Athens

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Head of Department: Mrs JM Meredith - jmm@kes.hants.sch.uk

COMPUTER SCIENCE

The Computer Science specification will above all else be relevant to the modern and changing world of computing OCR 2 Year A level The new specification will: • Focus on programming, building on GCSE Computing and emphasise the importance of computational thinking as a discipline.

• Have an expanded maths focus, much of which will be embedded within the course.

• Put computational thinking at its core, helping to develop the skills to solve problems, design systems and understand human and machine intelligence.

• Allow you to apply the academic principles learned in the classroom to real world systems in an exciting and engaging manner.

1. Computer Systems

2. Algorithms and Programming

3. Programming Project

• The characteristics of contemporary processors, input, output and storage devices

• Elements of computational thinking

• Analysis of the problem

• Problem solving and programming

• Implementation of the solution

• Software and software development

• Algorithms

• Exchanging data • Data types, data structures and algorithms • Legal, moral, cultural and ethical issues Mix of question types: including short-answer, longer-answer, and banded mark-scheme-type questions.

Section A: Traditional questions concerning computational thinking.

Section B: Scenario/task contained in the paper, which could be an algorithm but will involve problem solving.

• Design of the solution • Evaluation Candidates and / or centres select their own user-driven problem of an appropriate size and complexity to solve.

This will enable them to demonstrate the skills and knowledge necessary to meet the Assessment Objectives.

Mix of question types including short-answer, longer-answer, and levels of mark-scheme-type questions.

Assessment Component

Assessment

%

Marks and Duration

1. Computer Systems

Externally marked question paper

40%

140 marks / 2 hr 30 min

2. Algorithms and Programming

Externally marked question paper

40%

140 marks / 2 hr 30 min

3. Programming Project

Internally assessed, externally moderated

20%

70 marks

Head of Department: Mr PJ Mapstone - pjm@kes.hants.sch.uk

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DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY

The AS and A2 courses in Design and Technology will offer any student the chance to develop a wider range of both academic and practical problem solving skills along with project management.

Design Technology is recognised as providing an opportunity to broaden all academic and personal skills, however, an Advanced level qualification in the subject is considered a distinct advantage when applying for; design, engineering, architecture, fashion or costume design or a foundation year or other similar courses.

The course aims to develop and stimulate creativity, and innovation in all areas of design and technology.

Students will be expected to exercise initiative, imagination and resourcefulness in both design and manufacture.

Both the full A level and AS courses will be available to all pupils who have studied a GCSE in Design and Technology, regardless of the individual specialism (Resistant Materials, Textiles, Graphic Products or any other course available).

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Students who have not studied the subject at GCSE are not excluded: however, they are subject to interview with the Head of the Design and Technology Department.

Head of Department: Mr SH Barker - shb@kes.hants.sch.uk

DRAMA AND THEATRE STUDIES

Drama and Theatre Studies at A level offers you the opportunity to study a course which is vibrant, creative, challenging and stimulating. It also allows you to develop and hone important life skills such as negotiation, cooperation and time management and to improve your abilities in public speaking, presenting information in varied and engaging ways and commanding the attention of an audience. Past pupils have gone on to study subjects at degree level including medicine, history, English and philosophy as well as drama at university and top drama schools.

The skills you require.

During the course you will undertake practical performance work, as well as studying significant plays through the ages, and you will develop your ability to analyse contemporary productions from the perspectives of actor, director and designer.

For the A level course as well as performing from a

script you will devise and perform your own unique piece of theatre. You will acquire production skills such as lighting, set and costume and make-up design and you will become familiar with a variety of theatrical styles and practitioners. We prefer you to have a good grade at GCSE Drama to take this course but we do not insist on it. More important is that you have an open and enquiring mind, a genuine interest in theatre, a good sense of humour and that you are prepared to have a go at any challenge we throw at you!

Please note that the department organise a variety of theatre trips throughout the course, some of which will be compulsory to meet the requirements of the examination. It is also our expectation that Theatre Studies students will visit the theatre as often as they can in their spare time and will be prepared to read widely around the subject.

A Level Component 1

Component 2

Component 3

Written Paper, 3 hours 40% of total A level marks

Creating original drama (practical) This component is marked by teachers and moderated by AQA 30% of total A level marks

Making theatre (practical) 30% of total A level marks

Section A Answer one question from a choice of set plays selected to represent significant drama through the ages.

Section B Answer one three part question on a given extract from a second set play selected to represent 20th and 21st century drama.

Section C Answer one question on the work of theatre makers in a single live theatre production.

Working in groups to develop and present a devised drama, performed in the theatrical style of their choice. Research into a theatrical style chosen by the group for their practical work. There is also a working notebook that is assessed as well as the performance.

Practical exploration and interpretation of three extracts each taken from a different play.

Methodology of a prescribed practitioner is applied. Extract 3 is to be performed as a final assessment piece. Please note that the department will organise a variety of theatre trips throughout the course, some of which will be compulsory to meet the requirements of the Unit 1 examination, and to which the students will be asked to make a financial contribution. It is also our expectation that Theatre Studies students will visit the theatre as often as they can in their spare time and will be prepared to read widely around the subject.

Acting Head of Department: Mrs HK Arnold - hka@kes.hants.sch.uk

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ECONOMICS

Economics is one of the social sciences: a group of subjects that study various aspects of human behaviour.

It concentrates on how we behave when faced with the economic problem that the world has too few resources to produce enough goods and services to satisfy all the wants of all of its people.

Given this economic problem, choices have to be made about what, how and for whom to produce goods and services. Economists study how people, businesses and governments make choices and the consequences of their decisions.

The skills you require During the Advanced Level course you will encounter the underlying models and theories of Economics and be expected to apply them to various real world situations. In addition to acquiring a sound knowledge and understanding of the subject matter, you will also need to develop your powers of logical analysis and evaluation. To be successful, you will have to read widely and keep abreast of current affairs.

The statistical and data handling aspects of the work require no more than a competent performance at GCSE/IGCSE Mathematics.

Course structure and content The course being followed is the AQA Economics Specification (7136) and covers the following topics:

Individuals, firms, markets and market failure (microeconomics)

The national and international economy (macroeconomics)

• Economic methodology and the economic problem

• The measurement of macroeconomic performance

• Individual economic decision making

• How the macroeconomy works: the circular flow of income, aggregate demand/aggregate supply analysis and related concepts

• Price determination in a competitive market • Production, costs and revenue • Perfect competition, imperfectly competitive markets and monopoly

• Economic performance • Financial markets and monetary policy

• The labour market

• Fiscal policy and supply-side policy

• The distribution of income and wealth: poverty and inequality

• The international economy

• The market mechanism, market failure and government intervention in markets

Assessment Paper 1 (2 hours) Microeconomics data response and essay questions.

Paper 2 (2 hours) Macroeconomics data response and essay questions.

Paper 3 (2 hours) Multiple-choice questions and a case study covering all aspects of the course content.

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Economics is a contemporary, thought-provoking and evolving subject. It is always in the news, unearthing new problems and proposing new remedies.

The challenge of learning about something that exerts a significant influence over your behaviour and life should be given serious consideration.

Head of Department: Mr P Sheppard - ps@kes.hants.sch.uk

ENGLISH LANGUAGE

The English language is the most influential language in the world.

As a subject, English Language offers an opportunity to develop a detailed analytical understanding of the way language works, the way it is used and the ways in which it is closely intertwined with social values.

What skills will you gain?

The A level course will enable you to develop a range of skills essential for further education and employment.

As a result of studying English Language you will acquire a greater technical understanding of how languages work. You will consider the relationship between language and the development of ideas, beliefs and attitudes; society and social interaction; and the construction of identity.

Critical awareness of language not only helps you understand how you express yourself, but also how others use language and for what purposes. You will become a more active and discerning reader and listener, as well as a more skilled, confident writer.

Studying English Language at A level is excellent preparation for Higher Education courses in Linguistics, English Literature, Modern Foreign Languages, Humanities, the Social Sciences and Information Technology. It provides a perfect foundation for careers in Journalism and the Media, ICT, Law, Politics, the Civil Service, teaching and research.

What will you study?

During this two year course, you will prepare for two examination papers and undertake two different pieces of coursework.

A Level Paper 1

Paper 2

Coursework

Language, the Individual & Society

Language Diversity & Change

In this part of the course you will develop your skills of linguistic analysis by exploring a wide range of spoken, written, electronic and multimodal texts from different time periods and places.

This part of the course explores the two inter-related strands of Language Diversity and Language Change. You will develop your understanding of how language varies according to factors such as gender, ethnicity, social background, geographical location and profession.

Language in Action The coursework element of English Language is vital in enabling you to pursue your individual interests and refine your research and writing skills.

You will consider how language is used to create and convey meanings; how language is manipulated to achieve particular aims, and how ideas, people, places and events can be represented in different ways through language.

You will also study how young children develop both spoken and written language, exploring the different ideas and theories about how and why this remarkable process takes place.

For Language Change, you will study how and why the English language has changed over time and consider how it may continue to change in the future. Additionally, you will learn about attitudes to controversial issues relating to language diversity and change, and explore contemporary debates surrounding language use today: you will develop your own views through discussion and debate and learn how to express your opinions in writing, in both an informative and entertaining manner.

Head of Department: Mrs AA Gadsbey - aag@kes.hants.sch.uk

There are two projects: the Language Investigation and Original Writing. You will design and conduct a Language Investigation on a subject of your choice, collecting and analysing your own data independently. In addition, you have the opportunity to create an original piece of writing such as a short story, feature article or blog post, reflecting on your expertise in the analytical commentary.

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ENGLISH LITERATURE

Reading literature increases knowledge in an active, intellectually challenging way that other more passive activities, such as watching television cannot do.

A thorough grounding in literature automatically provides knowledge of our literary heritage while at the same time increasing the student’s awareness of cultural values, history, sociology, psychology, and almost every branch of human knowledge.

Literary study expands our capacity to sympathize with other human beings, enhances our ability to see and imagine human complexity, and broadens our intellectual horizons by enlarging our power to experience life vicariously.

How is it different from IGCSE? At A level you have the time to really explore texts instead of racing through them as is necessary at IGCSE. You are also with other like-minded students, people who have chosen to do the subject because they enjoy it, which makes the level of debate more intense.

How is it different from IGCSE? You need to have an interest in words, an enquiring mind, and be prepared to share your thoughts with others in the class. An enjoyment of reading is obviously going to be an advantage.

At KES we have chosen to study AQA Literature B Specification.

A Level Paper 1

Paper 2

Coursework

Literary Genres written exam 2 hours 30 minutes closed book 40% of A Level.

Texts and Genres written exam 3 hours open book 75 marks 40% of A Level.

Coursework: Theory and Independence 50 marks 20% of A Level.

75 marks closed book 40% of A Level 75 marks.

Study of 3 texts. Exam will include an unseen passage.

Option 1A: Aspects of Tragedy

Option 2A: Elements of Crime Writing

Study of two texts: one poetry and one prose text, informed by study of the Critical Anthology (students have a free choice of one poetry and one prose text).

(from Othello, King Lear, Tess of the D’Urbervilles, The Monk’s Tale, poetry of John Keats, The Great Gatsby, Death of a Salesman, Richard II*)

(Ian McEwan, Graham Greene, Charles Dickens, George Browning, Agatha Christie, Samuel Taylor Coleridge*).

Two essays of 1250-1500 words.

Section A One passage-based question on set Shakespeare text.

Section B One essay question on set Shakespeare text.

Section C One essay question linking two texts.

* Individual teachers will choose specific texts and writers.

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Head of Department: Dr AJ Schofield - ajs@kes.hants.sch.uk

FRENCH

Studying French in the Sixth Form can be extremely rewarding. Students combine French with a wide variety of subjects and most aspire to being fluent French speakers by the end of the Upper Sixth.

Numbers in the Sixth Form have been rising steadily in recent years as KES students realise the value of a foreign language and appreciate how well French can add to their overall profile. French can improve students’ chances of getting on to a good university course and later into an interesting career.

lunchtime workshops or language conferences, by borrowing a DVD of a French film or by taking part in the French trip to Montpellier in April. The French department is a lively and welcoming place to be and the French teachers are dedicated and positive in their approach to students.

French classes are relatively small with about ten students in each class, allowing for considerable individual attention and a great deal of lively interaction. Each class has a team of teachers and each individual student has a 25 minute lesson with one of our two French assistants every week. There are numerous opportunities available to develop linguistic skills, be it in

The language facilities are outstanding. The classrooms have been refurbished and all have interactive whiteboards. The multimedia centre has the ‘Sanako Study 1200 software’ allowing students to practise and develop their oral and aural skills. All rooms are bright and welcoming. There are dedicated VLE courses for the Lower and Upper Sixth classes and these are

embedded in our teaching enabling all students to access relevant video clips, articles, songs, interactive grammar exercises, power points and much of the teaching material.

All students have been signed up to Vocab Express and have their own passwords. They can practise vocabulary, verbs and tenses through this website. All students receive the French magazine ‘Chez nous’ and these also form part of the Lower Sixth Directed Studies Programme.

AQA specification French GCE A levels are changing and as of September 2016 we will be following the AQA specification.

The Upper Sixth will still be following the WJEC course with the Lower Sixth following the new AQA A level.

The subject content is similar and students will be encouraged to develop their linguistic knowledge and cultural understanding of the countries/communities where French is spoken.

The Department of Education has specified two main areas of interest: social issues and trends

and political, intellectual and artistic culture. These are divided into sub-themes for A level. At the end of the course, there will be three examinations, Speaking, Listening, Reading and Translation and a Critical response in writing.

The A level course places greater emphasis on written style, tone and accuracy. Literary texts and French films are studied and there will be a requirement to research an area of personal interest related to the country/communities where French is spoken. Students will learn how to summarise in response to spoken

Head of Department: Mrs JV Jones - jvj@kes.hants.sch.uk

and written French and will learn how to write essays about the film and text that they are studying.

The new course promises to be stimulating, engaging and challenging and it will allow students to progress and develop into linguists of the highest calibre by testing a wide range of skills and by allowing for a good deal of independent research and choice at A level. Our French students are increasingly leaving us to study french alongside subjects such as business, law, management and in some cases medicine.

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GEOGRAPHY

A level Geography provides a contemporary and dynamic opportunity for students to engage with the world around them.

The aim is to inspire a love of Geography for lifelong learning, drawing on issues that are relevant to a student’s own learning of the subject in a variety of contexts. The A level specification has been designed to strengthen geographical and fieldwork skills gained at IGCSE and delve more deeply into content.

Who should choose to study Geography for A level?

Geography can be taken in combination with either Arts or Science subjects and it is not necessary for students to have studied the subject to GCSE/IGCSE level, although such study does convey certain advantages.

Geography offers students the opportunity to develop their debating and discussion skills, and their statistical and analytical skills as well as applying an evaluative approach in extended writing. There are numerous transferable skills gained through Geography which can be utilised by students across all subjects as well as in their future careers.

University and Job Prospects?

Geography is studied by many in order to develop an array of skills, and a depth of knowledge and understanding, which prove essential in the workplace and at university. Students who have studied Geography will have the ability to compose a logical argument and debate issues with confidence and determinism. They will approach problems in an investigative and analytical manner, allowing them to look at all aspects of the issue, before drawing supported conclusions, whilst also evaluating any limitations encountered. Those who continue to study Geography as an undergraduate are able to develop these skills further and more than 60% of geography graduates are in full-time employment within six months of graduating, with the most popular areas of work including marketing, the environment, management consultancy and business analysis.

As quoted in The Guardian August 2015: “Geography: it’s the must-have A-level… it is inherently multidisciplinary in a world that increasingly values people who can work across the physical and social sciences… Geography’s all the rage.”

OCR Specification & Assessment (H481) There are 3 examination papers which include a mixture of short-answer, medium tariff and extended response questions. There is also an internally-assessed & externally-moderated independent investigation.

Physical Systems

Human Interactions

1 hour 30 minutes - 22% This involves the study of: Landscape Systems: Coastal, Glaciated or Drylands.

Earth’s Life Support Systems: Tropical Rainforests and Arctic Tundra and the importance of water and carbon to life on earth.

1 hour 30 minutes - 22% This involves the study of: Changing Spaces; Making Places: Contrasting places at a local scale and understanding economic change and social inequality.

Global Connections - Global Systems: Trade in the contemporary world or Global Migration; Global Governance: Human Rights or Power and Borders.

Geographical Debates 2 hour 30 minutes - 36% This involves the study of two of the following debates: Climate Change; Disease Dilemmas; Exploring Oceans; Future of Food; Hazardous Earth.

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Investigative Geography 3,000-4,000 words - 20% This is an internally-assessed and externally-moderated assessment, which is an independent geographical investigation conducted by each candidate based on primary and secondary data.

Head of Department: Miss LJ Grant - ljg@kes.hants.sch.uk

GERMAN

The German Advanced Level course at King Edward’s is aimed at keen, successful IGCSE students who wish to develop their existing knowledge of the language to a high degree of fluency and to explore a wide variety of aspects of the modern culture of German-speaking countries.

There is a strong emphasis on fluency and oral competence and authentic materials are used on topic areas that are chosen to be relevant to young people in a social, vocational, educational, literary or political context.

Students receive tuition from two teachers each teaching five or six periods per fortnight in the Lower Sixth. This includes two periods in a media centre with full access to IT facilities on the School’s network and the internet. In addition, students have one period per fortnight of Directed Study in which

they are expected to undertake independent research. There is also a weekly lesson on an individual basis with a language assistant to enhance oral competence. These arrangements allow for thorough coverage of all skill areas and flexibility in meeting the varied needs of the individual student.

The more complex grammatical structures required for the Lower Sixth Year are supplied in an intensive structured programme especially designed to bridge the gap between the less rigorous nature of GCSE/IGCSE and the

demand for independence expected of the more mature student.

The successful Advanced Level student will make full use of our excellent facilities and resources and will embrace all opportunities available in School: borrowing DVDs or library stock, taking part in an exchange programme or a study trip to Berlin, Vienna or another German-speaking city and perhaps making a contribution to the running of the German Magazine Club.

Independence and commitment outside the classroom are a great help.

AQA specification German GCE A levels are changing and as of September 2016 we will be following the AQA specification.

course, there will be examinations to test speaking, listening, reading and translation and writing.

The Upper Sixth will still be following the WJEC course with the Lower Sixth following the new AQA A level. In A level German students will be encouraged to develop their linguistic knowledge and cultural understanding of the countries/ communities where German is spoken.

The A level course places greater emphasis on written style, tone and accuracy. Literary texts and German films are studied in preparation for the final examination units.

The Department of Education has specified two main areas of interest: social issues and trends and political, intellectual and artistic culture. These are divided into sub-themes and at the end of the

Head of Department: Mr MG Kukla - mgk@kes.hants.sch.uk

There will be a requirement to research an area of personal interest related to the country/ communities where German is spoken and this will apply to all specifications.

The German Advanced Level course is recommended for a variety of students: not only those who wish to make languages the focus of a Higher Education course but also for those who wish to study German in combination with other disciplines.

For interested students this is a rewarding and stimulating Advanced Level choice.

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HISTORY

There are at least four sets in each of the Sixth Form years; each of the sets studies British, European and American topics from the nineteenth and twentieth centuries and some sets will also have the opportunity to study some medieval and early modern history.

The topics you study will depend upon the expertise of your teachers.

Topics that are currently being studied include: Tudor England, the careers of Pitt, Peel, Gladstone and Disraeli, China c.1930-1997, America 1845-77 and America 1945-80.

Outside the confines of the syllabus, the Department offers regular and structured preparation for the Extended Project and Oxbridge entry. There is also a highly successful, pupil-directed, Senior History Society which meets every fortnight to hear presentations given by members of the Lower Sixth and Upper Sixth together with a Sixth Form reading group for the most able A level historians.

In the autumn term half-term of 2017, the department will be running a Sixth Form History trip to Eastern Europe to allow pupils to visit some of the most important sites of 20th century history, including Auschwitz.

Candidates take three units for the new linear A level Unit 1

Unit 2

Unit 3

The first will be an in-depth coursework study.

The second will be an examined ‘breadth study’ from British, European or American history.

A ‘depth study’ requiring the pupils to study a period of 60-70 years in depth.

This will involve the study of a hundred year period for a particular country with questions requiring candidates to demonstrate understanding of the period as a whole.

This unit allows pupils to immerse themselves fully in the history of a particular country or issue in a manner that is academically very satisfying.

Candidates will produce an independently researched 30003500 word essay. This will be done in the Upper Sixth year and will be internally assessed.

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Head of Department: Mr NJ Diver - njd@kes.hants.sch.uk

MATHEMATICS

There are two types of A level Mathematics courses on offer at the School.

Both courses follow the Edexcel Modular Mathematics specification.

A level Mathematics A level Mathematics builds from GCSE and IGCSE and introduces calculus and its applications. It emphasises how mathematical ideas are interconnected and how mathematics can be applied to model situations using algebra and other representations to help make sense of data, to understand the physical world and to solve problems in a variety of contexts including social sciences and business.

This is a two year course requiring you to study six modules. In the first year of this course you will study Core Mathematics 1 and 2 together with one applied module, either Mechanics 1 or Statistics 1. This will

gain you an AS qualification. In the second year you will study Core Mathematics 3 and 4 and a second applied module, either Mechanics 2 or Statistics 2 following on from the module studied in the first year. This will complete the A level qualification.

Generally: If you take Mathematics alongside Arts subjects, Economics or Biology in the Sixth Form then you will be advised to study the Statistics units alongside the core mathematics units. If you take Mathematics alongside Physics or wish to pursue engineering at university then you will be encouraged to study the Mechanics units alongside the core units.

A level Further Mathematics Further Mathematics is designed for students with a real enthusiasm for mathematics, many of whom will go on to study for degrees in mathematics, the sciences or engineering. The qualification is both deeper and broader than A level Mathematics introducing ideas such as complex numbers and matrices; these are fundamental mathematical ideas with wide applications in mathematics, engineering, physical sciences and computing.

This is a double A level course requiring you to study 12 modules. The most common combination is Core Mathematics modules C1, C2, C3, C4, FP1, FP2 and FP3 with five additional applied modules in mechanics and statistics. If you are considering the Further Mathematics course you must not only be very able in Mathematics, preferably having studied Additional Mathematics, or a similar course, but also have a great commitment and enjoyment of the subject.

Modules Core and Pure Mathematics

Mechanics

Statistics

(C1, C2, C3, C4, FP1, FP2, FP3)

(M1, M2, M3, M4, M5)

(S1, S2, S3)

Core and Pure Mathematics include such topics as algebra, trigonometry and calculus.

Although many of the ideas you will meet are interesting in their own right, they also serve as an important foundation for other branches of mathematics, especially mechanics and statistics.

Mechanics involves learning how to model, mathematically, the motion of objects and how they respond to forces acting upon them, from cars moving in the street to ladders resting against walls to colliding snooker balls.

When you study statistics you will learn how to analyse and summarise numerical data in order to arrive at a conclusion. You will extend the range of probability problems that you began at GCSE/ IGCSE using the new mathematical techniques studied in the core mathematics units.

Head of Department: Mrs KS Platten - ksp@kes.hants.sch.uk

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MUSIC

A level Music offers an enjoyable and logical extension of the three elements of Music studied for GCSE; we follow the specification offered by OCR. A Level Unit 1 Performing

Unit 2 Composing

Unit 3

A recital (6-10 minutes) of pieces of your own choice, playing as a solo or in an Ensemble. This is assessed by audio-visual recording.

Exercises in melody and harmony and two original compositions.

This is coursework.

Historical Study. This includes studying and analysing set pieces from 18th and 19th Orchestral repertoire and from 20th Century Jazz repertoire. This is assessed in a two-hour written examination

It will be seen that the three elements from GCSE are maintained, and that the Performing and Composing elements are studied and assessed as coursework.

Only the Historical Topics papers are assessed as a written examination.

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The course will be exciting and challenging, allowing candidates to work to their strengths.

It should also be noted that A level Music is recognised in Higher Education as one of the traditional academic subjects.

Head of Department: Mrs H Freemantle - hf@kes.hants.sch.uk

MUSIC TECHNOLOGY

Music Technology offers the chance to study music production in the context of both MIDI sequencing and Studio Recording.

We also look at acoustics and the development of electronic technology. For September 2016, this course will continue to be taught as an AS level followed by the A2 level with examinations at the end of each year. Both AS and A2 are entirely externally assessed, through in-depth coursework projects and examinations. The specification followed is that offered by Edexcel.

AS Level Unit 1

Unit 2

Coursework Portfolio 1 (70%)

Listening and Analysing (30%)

Candidates will use Logic Pro X on the iMacs to create a MIDI Sequence and an Arrangement in the computer lab. They will also produce a recording of a pre-composed song in the Recording Studio.

This unit is presented as a 1 hour 45 examination.

Each candidate will receive a CD containing 10 excerpts of popular music or jazz and are required to answer short, longer and paragraph essay questions on musical, technical and stylistic features of the music.

A2 Level Unit 3

Unit 4

Coursework Portfolio 2 (60%)

Music Production Examination (40%)

Students are required to produce a MIDI backing track of a popular or jazz song with audio overdubs.

They are also required to produce a 16-24 track professional cover version of a piece of their choice in the recording studio. There will also be a 3-minute composition using audio samples and loops.

A 2 hour examination where each candidate is presented with a CD-Rom containing prerecorded sound files. Students are required to generate a full mix of the files, analyse the data and answer short and longer questions.

Music Technology A level can be taken in conjunction with Music A level. What is learned in Music Technology can be used to great effect in the Music A level course, and vice versa.

It is also an excellent companion to Physics, especially for those potentially interested in acoustics. There is no requirement to perform on an instrument but an ability to read music notation is essential.

Head of Department: Miss IM Anderson - ima@kes.hants.sch.uk

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PHYSICS

Physics is the study of the most fundamental aspects of the world and universe in which we live. Constantly striving to gain a better understanding of how the universe works, it forms the foundations upon which every other science is ultimately built.

A Level Outline The course followed at King Edward VI is the OCR Physics B, Advancing Physics course.

Originally developed in conjunction with the Institute of Physics, this course embraces some of the new and exciting applications of Physics, while providing a sound footing in the main areas which will underpin any study of Engineering, Physics or Chemistry in higher education. In addition, all of the physics teachers at King Edward VI are physics specialists and some have a significant amount of experience marking and writing the examination papers.

Mr Herklots, the Head of the Science Faculty, also authored the text book that we use for the course.

Curriculum trips These include visits to Southampton University and CERN in Geneva, Switzerland, to tour the facilities of the Large Hadron Collider.

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Module 1

Module 4

Development of practical skills

Understanding processes

Physics is a practical subject and this module gives the learners many opportunities to develop the fundamental skills needed to collect and analyse empirical data.

Both classical and quantum mechanics are studied, the latter in a fashion inspired by the famous Nobel Laureate, Richard Feynman.

The notion of wave-particle duality is introduced, allowing the students to appreciate the fundamental uncertainty inherent in any scientific measurement or model.

Module 2 Fundamental data analysis Data are of very little use unless they can be interpreted in a reliable and accurate fashion. Embedded throughout the course, this module will allow the learners to practise handling and analysing a wide variety of data, including those they have collected in the laboratory.

Module 3 Physics in action Imaging and sensing techniques are studied. These can be directly linked to the other half of module 3 - the study of materials and how the macroscopic properties can be linked to the microscopic structure.

Module 5 Rise and fall of the clockwork universe Many fundamental ideas are examined: from Newtonian Gravity to Thermodynamics and Einstein’s special relativity. Further, the mathematical modelling methods that would serve anyone pursuing a career in physics, engineering or even finance are introduced.

Module 6 Field and particle physics The final module considers the fascinating world of electromagnetism, the understanding of which has shaped the world in which we live today.

Particle physics is also looked at in detail for the first time, and how successive models have been refined over the last 120 years to bring them back into line with the most recent empirical data.

Head of Department: Mr RS Simm - rss@kes.hants.sch.uk

PSYCHOLOGY

Psychology is the scientific study of mind and behaviour.

It addresses questions such as: Why do we obey orders? What causes stress? Why do we remember some things and not others? Is a baby a ‘blank slate’ upon which life experience writes? How can depression be treated? Why do we behave in the way that we do?

A Level Psychology Lower Sixth: Introduction to Psychology

Skills and Interests Required

The Lower Sixth year acts as an introduction to Psychology. The students cover a range of topics that give them an insight into psychological research and theories. The topics covered during this year include social influence - looking at why people conform and obey, psychopathology - looking at the symptoms of a number of mental illnesses along with explanations and treatments for these illnesses, memory - looking at the different theories of why we remember some things but forget others, attachment - looking at the relationships between parents and young children and research methods - learning’ how to do psychology’ and being able to conduct their own psychological research.

An interest in ‘people’ is essential to the study of Psychology. The subject allows students to gain an understanding of both the physiological and the psychological aspects of our make-up and investigates both the brain functions and the social stimuli involved in behaviour. Lessons are both experiential and discursive but have a sound theoretical base. Students are expected to be proficient at essay construction and willing to contribute to class discussion. Focus is placed upon analysis, evaluation, interpretation and a critical appreciation of psychological methodologies.

A strong performance at IGCSE English and Science is highly recommended.

Upper Sixth: Applications of Psychology

Progression

The Upper Sixth course builds on the foundations of the Lower Sixth topics. Topics covered this year include neuroscience and how the brain and other systems affect behaviour, why some people are more aggressive and more likely to commit crimes than others, a more in-depth look at schizophrenia including the symptoms, explanations and treatments for the mental illness and our cognitive development from birth.

Psychology provides opportunities for those looking to progress to degree level in a number of fields.

Psychology provides skills and understanding which are very useful in the workplace and useful for a large number of university courses.

The Upper Sixth course also addresses current issues in Psychology including the nature-nurture debate, free will versus determinism and ethical implications of psychological research.

Psychology is a particularly useful subject for those wishing to go into clinical work, such as health and social care services, medicine, research, education and human resources. It is essential for Clinical Psychology, Educational Psychology, and Counselling-related fields.

Other specialist fields include Sports and Criminal Psychology.

We follow the AQA specification. There are three examination papers, all sat at the end of the upper sixth. There is no official coursework but students will be expected to conduct their own psychological research.

Please see the psychology page on the School website for more information: www.kes.hants.sch.uk/psychology

Head of Department: Mrs RJ Moody - rjm@kes.hants.sch.uk

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RELIGIOUS STUDIES (RELIGION, PHILOSOPHY & ETHICS)

The Advanced level course in Religious Studies allows students to build on areas that they have previously been introduced to during their GCSE courses on Philosophy and Ethics and indeed on the Religious Studies GCSE short course.

This should allow them to deepen their understanding and develop sound academic skills to equip them for university life and beyond.

The A level is a new course and is linear. Students will examine a specific religion with reference to the Philosophy of Religion. Topics likely to be covered include philosophical issues and questions; the nature and influence of religious experience; problems of evil and suffering;

philosophical language; the works of scholars and the influences of developments in religious belief.

Within Religious Ethics, topics which are likely to be covered include significant concepts in issues or debates in religion and ethics; a study of three ethical theories; the application of ethical theories to issues of importance; ethical language; deontology, Virtue

Ethics and the works of scholars; medical ethics: beginning and end of life issues. There will also be an examination of the religious beliefs of one specific religion, values and teachings; sources of wisdom and authority; practices that shape and express religious identity; social and historical developments; the works of scholars; religion and society and primary texts.

Who should choose to study the Religious Studies course?

The course can work with Arts or Humanities combinations of subjects or complement a scientific combination; the subject matter relates to scientific topics and encourages students to develop excellent skills in the art of academic discussion and essaywriting. It is the utility of Philosophy and Theology that marks them

out from other academic subjects.

These rigorous disciplines provide the opportunity for students to master academic argument, to defend a case and to think logically, empathetically, skilfully without making assumptions. It is such transferable skills that will form the basis of a student’s dealings with others and their approach to all

academic study. The course gives students the opportunity to enter into dialogue, to understand the beliefs and values that underpin their own and other cultures, to challenge beliefs and develop their own convictions and outlook.

University and Job Prospects?

For many, philosophy and theology are studied at both Advanced and Undergraduate level because they provide essential key skills useful in the workplace and at university.

Those who have studied these subjects will have developed high levels of logical ability and verbal fluency; they will have the ability to analyse problems, identify solutions and to discuss and argue

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with clarity. All of this makes them particularly attractive to employers within medicine, law, journalism and information technology to name but a few professions.

The demands placed on philosophers and theologians to listen and think mean that students in these areas flourish at jobs where they deal with and manage people.

Head of Department: Mrs HM Searles - hems@kes.hants.sch.uk

SPANISH

Spanish in the Lower Sixth builds on the foundations laid at IGCSE. Familiar topics form the basis of the first parts of the language course, but a lot of new vocabulary is added.

You should aim to begin the course with a firm knowledge of the major verb tenses and forms for both regular and irregular verbs.

A working knowledge of the bulk of IGCSE vocabulary will also be assumed.

As the language course progresses, more advanced structures are introduced, and these require a sound understanding of the more basic structures if they are to be effectively added to your linguistic armoury.

By the end of the first term, you should find yourself beginning to cope successfully with understanding and communicating in genuinely advanced Spanish. By the end of the two-year course to A level, our best students achieve near-native fluency in a wide variety of topics and situations.

Work will be done mainly in Spanish. Your teachers will speak to you in Spanish for the great majority of the time and you will be expected to conduct yourself, even for the most routine issues, in Spanish. You will be expected to undertake a good deal of independent work as well as the work set.

A lot of the language work is based upon the reading of a variety of texts and listening to recorded authentic material, often from internet sources.

All you do will improve your ability to communicate in speech and in writing, develop your ability to construct a convincing argument and use evidence appropriately, and as you do so, you will also gain confidence in defending your arguments against those of others.

All these skills are needed when performing successfully at an advanced level.

The department offers students the opportunity to travel to Salamanca during February half-term. The week-long trip involves staying with families (normally in pairs) and attending daily culture and language classes at a local language school (4 hours/day). Although this is not a compulsory trip, it is highly recommended as it helps greatly with fluency, comprehension skills, confidence and gives a real insight into Spanish life and culture.

AQA specification GCE A levels are changing as of September 2016 and we will be following the AQA specification.

The Upper Sixth will still be following the WJEC course with the Lower Sixth following the new AQA A level. In A level Spanish students will be encouraged to develop their linguistic knowledge and cultural understanding of the countries/communities where Spanish is spoken. The Department of Education has specified two main areas of interest: social issues and trends and political, intellectual and

artistic culture. These are divided into sub-themes and at the end of the course, there will be three examinations, Speaking, Listening, Reading and Translation and a Critical response in writing.

The A level course places greater emphasis on written style, tone and accuracy. Literary texts and Spanish films are studied in preparation for the final examination units. There will be a requirement to research an area of personal interest related to the country/communities where Spanish is spoken.

Head of Department: Mrs EM Ladislao - eml@kes.hants.sch.uk

The new course promises to be stimulating, engaging and challenging. It will allow students to progress and develop into linguists of the highest calibre by testing a wide range of skills and by allowing for a good deal of independent research and choice at A level.

Our Spanish students are increasingly leaving us to study Spanish at university alongside subjects such as business, law, management, history and English literature.

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SPORTS SCIENCE

Subject content includes: 1. Applied anatomy and physiology 2. Skill acquisition 3. Sport and society 4. Exercise physiology 5. Biomechanical movement 6. Sport psychology 7. Sport and society and the role of technology in physical activity and sport

Paper 1 Factors affecting participation in physical activity and sport Section A (35 marks)

Section B (35 marks)

Section C (35 marks)

Applied Anatomy and Physiology Multiple choice, short answer and extended writing.

Skill acquisition Multiple choice, short answer and extended writing.

Sport and Society Multiple choice, short answer and extended writing.

Paper 2 Factors affecting optimal performance in physical activity and sport Section A (35 marks)

Section B (35 marks)

Section C (35 marks)

Exercise Physiology and Biomechanics Multiple choice, short answer and extended writing.

Sport Psychology Multiple choice, short answer and extended writing.

Sport and Society and Technology in Sport Multiple choice, short answer and extended writing.

Non-exam assessment Practical performance in physical activity and sport Internal assessment, external moderation. (90 marks) Students assessed as a performer or coach in the full sided version of one activity.

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Head of Department: Mr MG Mixer - mgm@kes.hants.sch.uk

QUESTIONS ANSWERED

How do I choose my subjects for the Sixth Form?

You will be studying a much narrower range of subjects than in the past and spending more time on each of them, so it certainly makes sense to choose subjects you know you enjoy! Equally, your results in these subjects will be your passport to Higher Education, so they should also be subjects in which you can reasonably expect to achieve good results. A combination of subjects offering a degree of variety of study is often a good idea.

If you have clear future intentions for university and beyond, check if you should take certain subjects at Advanced level. If you are not sure what you want to do beyond the Sixth Form, it’s best to choose a range of subjects that keep your options open. Take advice as widely as possible and visit the Student Guidance department.

What is meant by AS and full A level?

AS stands for Advanced Subsidiary and consists of two or three assessment units. It is an independent qualification in its own right and is worth just below half the UCAS points tariff of a full Advanced level.

The full Advanced level course, is a two year linear course and fully examined at the end of the Upper Sixth.

AS examinations will only be offered in the subjects not yet reformed.

Should I do 3 or 4 full Advanced levels?

Further Mathematics, Mathematics, plus two other subjects is the traditional four-subject combination, but you can take all four of your subjects forward to full A level if you wish, whatever combination you are studying.

It is important not to under-estimate the potential

demands of any four-subject Upper Sixth course of study, and to take advice as widely as possible. Taking four full Advanced levels generally does not enhance your chances of obtaining a university place and may, in fact, result in your being made a more demanding offer.

Which subjects are the best preparation for university later on?

The School believes that all the subjects offered at Advanced level have good academic credentials and are suitable for study by Sixth Formers intending to enter Higher Education. Some HE courses have specific subject requirements, very many do not.

Students who are concerned whether their Advanced level subjects are appropriate preparation for their intended course of study at university should consult the website of the university concerned or look at the entry profiles for courses featured on UCAS Course Search.

When do I have to decide which subjects I want to carry on to full A Level?

Having chosen four subjects for your Lower Sixth year, you don’t have to decide which three you will carry on with in the Upper Sixth until the Spring term of the Lower Sixth year. It is then that you will be asked to confirm your choice of Route 1 *3 A level subjects+ or Route 2 *4 A level subjects+.

www.kes.hants.sch.uk

Requests to change your choice of subjects after that will be considered but will be subject to considerations such as staffing, set numbers and timetabling implications. Internal exams held at the start of the summer term in the Lower Sixth will help you decide.

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QUESTIONS ANSWERED

Can I drop my fourth A Level subject in the Upper Sixth?

We ask you when making your initial choices to indicate which of the four subjects is likely to be your Lower Sixth only option, if you intend to follow Route 1. The reason for asking this question is that it enables us to create teaching sets in such a way as to maximise continuity of teaching from Lower to Upper Sixth. The spring term of the Lower Sixth year is when you will be asked to confirm your intentions for the Upper Sixth.

You should consider the demands of a four A level courses carefully before embarking on it. If, however, the School agrees that it would be in your best interests to reduce the number of full Advanced level subjects, you will be allowed to drop the fourth subject. Making such a change in the Upper Sixth year itself may, however, involve changes of teaching set.

Will I have the same teachers in both years in the Sixth Form?

Continuity of teaching cannot be guaranteed, as we will need to make some rearrangements to teaching sets in the light of choices for Upper Sixth, but we will do our

best to provide continuity for as many sets and students as possible.

Will subjects be examined in both the Lower and Upper Sixth?

Yes. All subjects will be examined in the summer term of the Lower Sixth year internally, and full A level subjects will be externally examined in June of the Upper Sixth

year. In January of the Upper Sixth year, there may be some form of internal assessment arranged by subject departments.

Can I resit units?

No. There are no opportunities to re-sit any examinations following the A level reforms.

What are Open Forum and Foundation Studies?

In the Lower Sixth year every student will enter the Foundation Studies programme and attend a series of weekly sessions designed to equip students with key skills and to extend their education beyond the examined curriculum. For students opting for Route 1, Foundation Studies continues in the Upper Sixth year where it becomes a series of five short courses chosen from a wide ranging list.

Full details of these will be made available in the spring term of the Lower Sixth year. In addition, all Sixth Form students will attend Open Forum, a series of weekly presentations by staff and guest speakers, intended to interest, inspire and broaden the experience of all students.

Any questions you might have which are not answered above should be addressed to Dr BM Waymark - Deputy Head (Academic) 023 80704561 bmw@kes.hants.sch.uk

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King Edward VI School . Wilton Road . Southampton . Hampshire SO15 5UQ

Co-Curriculum Guide

www.kes.hants.sch.uk

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BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

If you’ve been at King Edward’s for a few years, you’ll know what we think about the other side of school life that happens after the bell goes.

We like it, encourage it, and value it.

In the Sixth Form, these thoughts don’t change; but the opportunities available to you do.

By the end of your two Sixth Form years, we will send you out into the world of higher education and work and we want you to go on that journey with confidence and experience, excited and prepared to relish even more of life’s opportunities.

We want you to have a sense of pride in what you have already achieved, knowing that you made the most of your time here at KES.

Participate Think Compete Lead Serve Duke of Edinburgh Express Explore

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King Edward VI School . Wilton Road . Southampton . Hampshire SO15 5UQ

PARTICIPATE

Get involved, because that’s what it’s all about.

It can also break up the hard work and inevitable pressures that Sixth Form life sometimes brings.

It allows you to get to know people outside of your regular social groups, to try new things and can empower you with a host of new skills that might, in some cases, be hobbies for the rest of your lives.

And let’s face it, it makes you a much more interesting character and will give you something to talk about at parties (and, dare we say it, interviews…)

Academic, cultural, sporting, charitable, thoughtprovoking… the list goes on. So what can you get involved in? Have a look at the range of clubs and societies on offer.

This list isn’t even exhaustive… so there’s really no excuse not to.

www.kes.hants.sch.uk

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THINK

Academic societies Nearly all subjects offered at the School (and some that are not) have an academic society that is run by Sixth Formers. You choose the topics, the speakers and even the biscuits.

Where a society doesn’t already exist we will support you in setting it up. In recent years student initiative has led to the formation of, among others, a Feminist and Equality Society, Politics Society and even a Harry Potter Club!

Academic trips You will be invited to attend lectures locally and, further afield, you might even find yourself re-treading the path of existentialist philosophers in Paris or watching a solar eclipse in the Faroe Islands.

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King Edward VI School . Wilton Road . Southampton . Hampshire SO15 5UQ

COMPETE

Raise the bar. It’s important to learn what it feels like to win.

We also think that it’s imperative to have followed a path of commitment, preparation, hard work and adrenaline. It is also essential to learn how to deal with second place.

At King Edward’s, there are opportunities in all spheres to step up to the plate.

In sport, rugby, netball, girls’ and boys’ hockey, cricket, rounders, football, tennis and basketball all have competitive fixtures against other schools. Young Enterprise, Maths, Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Linguistic Olympiads, as well as other subject-based essay competitions, are run within departments allowing you to see how you fare on a national scale.

The School enters local and national debating competitions through the Senior Debating and Public Speaking Society.

Internally the House system’s Allen Grant trophy affords numerous chances to compete against your peers. What’s on offer at this level? Hockey, badminton, rugby, football, the House Quiz, netball, the Ready Steady Cook event, basketball, rounders and music competitions.

www.kes.hants.sch.uk

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LEAD

A real bonus of belonging to the Sixth Form is that it offers a host of opportunities to hone your leadership skills.

In the Upper Sixth we have four senior positions: Head of School, two Deputy Heads of School, and a Senior Prepositor.

There are also a team of prepositors working with them. ‘Prepositor’ is what some schools would call a prefect and they have responsibility for a specific year group, with whom they form a strong bond.

We also appoint twelve students as Heads of House.

They take a leading role in the purposeful progress of the House and delegating to others. They help develop the identity of the House and the promotion of positive House spirit, encouraging participation in the range of Allen Grant events.

The Captain of Music, Head of the Charities Commission and Head of Partnerships work with staff and pupils alike and are heavily involved in the organisation of some of the busiest co-curricular areas of the School, involving hundreds of pupils.

We also appoint a Senior Scholar and Chief Librarians to assist with and promote the academic side of school life.

Sixth Formers also captain sports teams and run the clubs and societies that we have mentioned.

Not enough?

You can also direct a play, assist in the running of one of our partnerships, or head up a new society.

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King Edward VI School . Wilton Road . Southampton . Hampshire SO15 5UQ

SERVE

The student-led Charities Commission is a huge part of school life, with a flourishing number of members at any one time, and the entire school being involved in fundraising activities.

It runs a myriad of events and in recent years has been tipping the £25,000 mark. It is a part of school life in which everyone gets involved, but where the Sixth Form take the helm.

Every summer we send a team of sixteen Sixth Formers out to the Goedgedacht Trust in South Africa, where they have an unforgettable two weeks working on the farm and helping with the after school club for local children. However, it’s not just about going away in the summer. It involves a two year team commitment to doing the best they can for the children at the Geodgedacht Trust.

Summer Camp also runs each July. A team of Sixth Formers take a group of young carers, aged between 8 and 12, on a week-long activity-packed holiday in Swanage. Summer Camp is a chance for these young people to be relieved of their daily level of responsibility and to have some well-earned time off, and fun. This trip is paid for entirely from fundraising done by KES and events such as the ‘Battle of the Bands’ are a highlight in the school calendar.

Partnerships that run with local schools also form a large part of life at KES. We have many current activities up and running, with additional workshops in art, fencing and music happening intermittently.

Have a look at the Clubs and Societies list on the website for details of what is running now and what you can get involved with.

Both of these projects have election processes with application forms and interviews.

www.kes.hants.sch.uk

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DUkE OF EDINBURGH’S AWARD

D of E is incredibly popular at KES, with expeditions taking place from Easter to November.

We currently have about 100 students in the Sixth Form working towards the five sections of the Gold Award: skill, service, physical recreation, residential and volunteering sections. It is undeniably hard work but totally worth it.

At KES our kit store houses all of the tents, rucksacks and sleeping bags that you might need, as well as other bits and bobs, meaning that if you’re short on kit the only thing you will need is boots and clothes.

We also don’t put a quota on how many people can get involved, so if you already have Silver you can start immediately! If you don’t, the Silver option is still available to you as a Sixth Former.

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King Edward VI School . Wilton Road . Southampton . Hampshire SO15 5UQ

EXPRESS

With busy and successful music, drama and dance programmes, both those who really excel at, and those who simply enjoy, creative arts can get involved.

Our plays give students the opportunity to act, stage manage and become involved in design and front of house responsibilities.

Sixth Form students can also sign up for training in stage make-up at lunchtimes and there is usually a Sixth Form play in the spring, produced and directed

by Sixth Formers themselves. A team of enthusiastic and energetic Sixth Formers assist with the running of Junior Drama Club each week and any member of the School can choose to put on a half hour performance at lunchtime by booking a ‘Tuesday at One’ slot in the Dobson Theatre.

Symphony Orchestra, Big Band, Rock Academy, Choir or simply jamming…. there is something for all Sixth Formers in the busy Music Department where regular concerts are staged throughout the year.

There is the opportunity for talented musicians to lead and conduct groups such as Chamber Choir or Music Tech Club and Sixth Form musicians regularly stage their own concerts for charity and many use their musical activities for their Duke of Edinburgh Award skills section.

If you are a dancer, there are many opportunities to use the purpose-built dance studio. Musical theatre, ballet, contemporary dance and Zumba classes are open to all.

Sixth Form artists get heavily involved in the photography and design of programmes for concerts, plays and charity events. There are also opportunities for regular life drawing classes and trips to galleries, as well as trips further afield. The Partnerships Art Club lets older artists pass on their enthusiasm to others, and the art rooms are open at lunch times and after school for independent work.

Creative Sixth Form students play an important role in the biennial Arts Festival where they join the management team and help plan and run the festival.

Concert visits in Southampton and beyond, visiting workshop musicians, community projects, charity concerts and the annual Southbank Sinfonia concert at Turner Sims, the Carol Service and Spring Concert are just some of the highlights of what is on offer.

Music tours abroad also occur with regularity.

www.kes.hants.sch.uk

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ExPLORE

We don’t want you to do all of your learning on the Hill Lane site and each year we travel to all corners of the earth, as well as getting around Hampshire and the UK. In the last few years: Real science in the Faroe Islands and CERN, and in Madagascar, Indonesia, Honduras, and Mexico with Operation Wallacea.

German trips to Mutterstadt and Berlin, charity work in South Africa and Swanage as well as language exchanges to France, Germany and Spain. Sports tours to Holland, the Caribbean, South Africa, USA, Canada, Sri Lanka, Spain and Ireland and skiing in Europe and North America.

Expeditions to India, Thailand and Cambodia, Norway and Alaska along with classical tours of Greece, Italy, Turkey and music tours in Paris, Prague, Austria and Italy. Duke of Edinburgh’s award expeditions in Dartmoor, the Lake District and Elan Valley, museum, gallery and theatre visits in Greece, Rome, Brighton, Bath, Yorkshire, Manchester, Exeter, Weymouth, Oxford, London and, finally, Southampton!

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King Edward VI School . Wilton Road . Southampton . Hampshire SO15 5UQ

Admissions Procedure (for external applicants)

Senior members of staff and subject specialists will interview Sixth Form candidates at the end of February/beginning of March.

As a result of these interviews, and on the basis of a candidate’s potential GCSE results, either conditional or unconditional offers of a Sixth Form place may be made. A limited number of bursaries are available

and these are dependent on family financial circumstances. There are also some non means-tested scholarships for students from the maintained sector who plan to study either Chemistry or Biology.

Open Evening

Friday 7 October 2016

Sixth Form Information Evening

Thursday 20 October 2016

Sixth Form Tea

Tuesday 6 December 2016

Closing date for Applications

Friday 3 February 2017

Sixth Form Interviews

Saturday 4 March 2017

Sixth Form Results mailed

Friday 10 March 2017

Deadline for Acceptances

Friday 24 March 2017

www.kes.hants.sch.uk

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King Edward VI School . Wilton Road . Southampton . Hampshire SO15 5UQ

www.kes.hants.sch.uk