Merchant Taylors' Girls' School Sixth Form Prospectus

Girls’ Sixth Form Prospectus merchanttaylors.com

A Warm Welcome By choosing to become part of the Sixth Form at Merchant Taylors’ Girls’ School (MTGS), you are allowing yourself the opportunity to become the extraordinary woman that you have the potential to be.

Speech Day, at the end of Upper Sixth, never fails to move me as I listen to all the accomplishments, applaud all the triumphs and observe how ready each girl is to start the next chapter of their lives.

The Sixth Form at MTGS is very special.

Not only will you be able to enjoy all the benefits associated with a single sex education, you also have the chance to work collaboratively with the boys from Merchant Taylors’ Boys’ School, both in the classroom and through our extensive co-curricular programme. Joining us in the Sixth Form will bring you new found freedoms and privileges whilst enabling you to develop and hone your teamwork and leadership skills. Together with your peers and parents, we are given the opportunity to celebrate your innovation, enthusiasm and, above all else, you!

your background. You will be encouraged to enjoy and engage in your learning, to develop your intellectual curiosity and to therefore become the best that you can be. You will be supported to excel in areas where you have strengths and you will be encouraged not to be afraid to make mistakes, to stumble or to fall. As you will come to recognise, that most of the time, the greatest reward comes from undertaking the things that scare you the most.

Each of you will have your own ideas about what you would like to achieve by the time you leave MTGS. I hope that both our prospectus, and the wonderful community you will encounter on our Open Days, will give you a flavour of what to expect and, as a result, you are excited by the possibilities that we can offer you.

Mrs Claire Tao Headmistress MTGS

Everyone within our School community is proud to be part of the journey that will help to shape and define your future over the two years. Although we are an independent school, we pride ourselves on the fact that you can be yourself, such that each of you will be able to feel comfortable in your own skin and will be accepted for who you are regardless of

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Life in Sixth Form The Sixth Form provides students with an unmatched opportunity to gain and to give a great deal. Not only will they rise to the challenges of advanced academic study, but through the duties and responsibilities expected of them, they will play a real and stimulating part in running the school.

In addition, the wide range of extra-curricular activities offered at this stage will enable girls to develop those essential personal and social skills that, together with high academic achievement, will give them an advantage over their contemporaries. This is especially the case when they apply to, and enter the workplace, Apprenticeships or Higher Education.

Sixth Sixth Form Form Centre Centre Sixth Form Centre

Students Students have access have access to theirto own their Sixth ownForm Sixth Form Centre Centre which has which a range has aof range facilities: of facilities: Students have access to their own Sixth Form Centre which has aincludes: range of facilities: CommonCommon Room which Room includes: which

• Separate • • Separate Separate kitchen area kitchen witharea facilities with facilities to make snacks to makeand snacks drinks and drinks kitchen area with facilities to make snacks and drinks

• Large scale • • Large Large fixed scale projector fixedprojector projector screen with screen high with quality high audio quality system audio system scale fixed screen with high quality audio system • WiFi connection • • WiFi WiFi connection connection • Sixth Form • • Sixth study Form rooms study with rooms individual withindividual individual cubicles and cubicles spaces for spaces Sixth Form study rooms with cubicles andand spaces for for collaborative work collaborative collaborative work work Sixth Form • Separate • • Separate Separate Sixth Form Sixth computer Formcomputer computer suite suite suite S tudents also have access totothe Ian Robinson Centre • Students • • Students also havealso access haveto access the Ian Robinson the Ian Robinson SportsSports Centre Sports which Centre which which includes a gym, sports hall and dance studio includes includes a gym, sports a gym, hall sports and hall dance and studio dance studio

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The School Library Sixth Formers are welcome to use the Lower or Upper Library during their study lessons or free time, from 8am to 4pm.

An experienced team of librarians work in the library and they support the pupils in making the most of the print and online resources provided by the library. Every pupil attends a 6th form library induction session and the librarians also play an active role in supporting in supporting the EPQ programme.

The library not only supports subjects on the curriculum but also offers a wide range of extension reading for pupils applying to Oxbridge, medicine and law.

There are more than 12,000 books in the library, including fiction and non-fiction works, as well as reference material.

There are also subscriptions to an online resources, which includes; a database of online journal articles (JSTOR) and an international newspaper database (Newsbank).

All pupils are encouraged to read for pleasure and there are opportunities to get involved with reading groups and the 6th form library committee.

The library promotes the development of independent learning, which is essential for higher education.

Learning Support At Merchant Taylors we strive to provide a caring and supportive environment for each of our pupils. We aim to develop self-esteem, confidence and resilience as well as addressing the needs of the whole child. We recognise pupils of all abilities may experience obstacles to learning and we treat each chid as an individual, providing them with personalised learning and the support they require to flourish and achieve their aspirations.

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We believe in a pupil focused approach and liaise closely with our pupils and their parents to ensure we provide the best provision. Support is provided in the form of 1:1 support lessons, study groups and drop-in sessions focusing on metacognitive awareness and study skills, as well as promoting well-being.

Merchant Taylors’ School

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Leadership

Careers Merchant Taylors’ Senior Girls’ School is committed to offering full support for students and parents in an age where exploring career options has become more vital than ever for Sixth Formers.

The provision includes:

Alongside the wide and varied programme of extra-curricular provision from which the students have already benefited, as Sixth Formers they will revel in the opportunity to become even more involved in the daily life of the School by taking on leadership roles.

The range of transferable and employability skills that the students develop from leadership roles gives them the competitive edge at university and makes them highly marketable in the world of work.

Through a formal application process, students can become part of the leadership team of the School; this includes the Head Girl team, the Sports, House and Music Captains or Chair of the School Council.

The Sixth Form Committees also provide students with a chance to take on other leadership roles by becoming a member or Chairperson of one of the following committees: • Charities • Debating • Form Assistants • Functions

Merchant Taylors’ School

• All students in Lower Sixth will have access to UniFrog to help support their post 18 decisions • Annual Careers Fair • Lectures, working lunches, workshops and webinars, all designed to help inform and advise

• International

• Support with UCAS guidance - in particular course research and choices

• Library

• Mock Interviews

• Listening Service

• Annual Networking Breakfast

• Magazine

• We are constantly developing our network with the Old Boys and Old Girls to help support, mentor and advise.

• Music • Snack Shack • Sixth Form Ambassador Programme.

Students are also given the valuable opportunity to become Youth Leaders by helping run the Youth Club which is for the younger members of the Merchant Taylors’ Schools.

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• Opportunity to discuss career goals post 18 through one to one career guidance interviews

Our aim is to provide students with a framework for making proper decisions about their future development.

The components of this are: 1. Realistic analysis of academic interests, strengths and weaknesses 2. Accurate awareness of the nature of particular areas of study and work and the range of choice available to them 3. Access to information on courses, institutions and careers and the qualifications required to enter them 4. Access to guidance, which is both supportive and impartial and helps the individual to become aware of the options open to her and to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of particular choices.

Work Experience Work experience placements during the Sixth Form do much to inform students about employment and career options.

The School has accumulated a substantial list of parents and alumni who are able to provide a wide variety of opportunities for our students. We encourage students to start thinking about their work experience early in their Sixth Form career and make enquiries early. A good number of our students then take up further placements during the summer holidays and even beyond into their undergraduate years.

CONTACT: Mrs V Mee

Head of Careers

v.mee@merchanttaylors.com

Merchant Taylors’ School

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Ex t e nde d Pro ject Qualificat io n

Individualised Learning

Extende d Pro j e ct Qu a l if ic a tio n

CONTACT: Ms M Hutchins

EPQ Co-ordinator CONTACT: Ms M Hutchins

m.hutchins@merchanttaylors.com EPQ Co-ordinator m.hutchins@merchanttaylors.com

The Inspire Programme

Harrison Group

SEND provision

The Inspire Programme aims to develop life-long independent learners who can cope easily with the vagaries of exams, take on enrichment projects at A Level and make the transition from school to university with ease.

Y12 and 13 students are invited to join the Harrison Group, which offers girls the opportunity to attend forums led by staff, keynote lectures from outside speakers and presentations given by their peers.

At MTGS we celebrate our individual girl’s strengths and create personalised learning programs to best support their progress. We understand each of our girls has a unique learning profile and we ensure that they are supported within the classroom, with additional specialist support available.

The Upper Sixth presentations are a great opportunity for girls to research a topic of interest and practise their presenting skills ready for university interviews and EPQ presentations. Girls who take an active role in the Harrison Group will be invited to the annual Harrison Dinner, which is a prestigious formal event at the end of Year 13.

The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) provides with a valuable The Extendedstudents Project Qualification opportunity to experience university-style (EPQ) provides students with a valuable opportunity to experience study as they develop their university-style research skills as they their research andstudy expand theirdevelop knowledge beyond skills the and expand their knowledge the A Level syllabus. Students arebeyond required A Level syllabus. Students are required to work independently to research a topic to work independently to research a topic of their choice and produce a final report. of their choice and produce a final report.

Their independent study is supported Their independent study is supported through a series of of taught through a series taughtsessions sessions covering covering the the skills they will need skills they will needtotosuccessfully successfully complete their project, complete their project,including; including; planning planning objective setting, criticalanalysis, analysis, andand objective setting, critical report writing, primaryresearch research and and report writing, primary presentation skills. Each student is also assigned to a supervisor who acts as a mentor during the project.

presentation skills. Each student is also assigned to supervisor who acts as a Completing anaEPQ demonstrates a mentor dedication during thetoproject. student’s independent learning and the transferable research skills they develop are valued by highera Completing an EPQ demonstrates education institutions.

An EPQ is worth student’s dedication to independent more than half an A Level (28 UCAS points) learning and the transferable research so can be used to earn extra UCAS points skills they develop are valued by higher and an increasing number of universities education An offers EPQ is are includinginstitutions. the EPQ in their toworth more than half an A Level (28 UCAS points) students.

so can be used to earn extra UCAS points

Personalised Study Programme and an increasing number of universities

are including the EPQ in their offers to

Most of you will be choosing 3 A Level students. subjects and some of you may also look to undertake an extended project Personalised Study Programme qualification (EPQ).

Most of you will choosing 3 Awhich Level You should seek to be choose subjects subjects of strengths you mayand also inspire you,and playsome to your offer the greatestan scope to enhance lookyou to undertake extended project your decision-making qualification (EPQ). for the future.

You should seek to choose subjects which inspire you, play to your strengths and offer you the greatest scope to enhance your decision-making for the future.

CONTACT: Mr J Whitton

Director of Enrichment & Co-curricular j.whitton@merchanttaylors.com CONTACT: Ms K Howard

SENCO

k.howard@merchanttaylors.com

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Pastoral The transition from Year 11 to Sixth Form is carefully managed. With greater emphasis on independent learning, self-discipline and self- motivation Students in the Sixth Form receive a great deal of individual support from personal tutors and the pastoral team.

Each student is placed in a tutor group of about twelve students and it is through the tutor’s daily contact that pastoral care is delivered in the first instance. The tutor will normally be the first person to whom a student will turn for support. The Head and Assistant Head of Sixth Form oversee all tutor groups and are experienced tutors themselves.

Every student feels valued and knows that any concern is dealt with the utmost sensitivity and professionalism by the pastoral team. In the Lower Sixth, students participate in a PSHE programme that helps them to become effective independent learners, hone their time management skills and develop strategies to cope with stress. Tutor time in the Upper Sixth is not only devoted to university applications but developing the life skills to equip the students for Higher Education and beyond.

CONTACT: Mrs J Mayne

Head of Sixth Form

j.mayne@merchanttaylors.com

( Co -C urric ular ) Sport Our Sixth Form girls have a range of competitive and recreational sporting opportunities to take part in alongside their academic studies.

All members of our Sixth Form take part in Sixth Form Games on a Wednesday afternoon and this gives our senior girls the opportunity to take up a number of different sporting opportunities over the school year.

Activities currently on offer include a range of sports centre activities at the Ian Robinson Sports Centre, use of the Peter Little Fitness Suite and the Margaret Mann Dance Studio.

Girls can take part in Zumba, Yoga, Pilates and Step Aerobic fitness classes in the dance studio as well as games based activities. In addition, games groups can take part in hockey and netball, helping our senior squads to prepare for competitive matches and there are also opportunities to coach our younger players in these sports.

The PE Department also offers opportunities for Sixth Form girls to join trips to sports events and dance performances in addition to conferences such as the GSA Girls Go Gold conferences which take place each year. We also offer opportunities to be part of regular hockey and netball Sports Tours to destinations which have included Australia, Singapore, Canada, New Zealand and South Africa.

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Drama Drama

S p o r t , D ra ma , Music

Our focus is to encourage our Sixth Form Our focus is to encourage our Sixth in Form girls to maintain their involvement girls to maintain involvement in of an active lifestyletheir and to gain a sense an active lifestyle andtheir to gain a sense of achievement through participation achievement through their in sport. We also enable our participation senior girls in sport.

We also enable our senior girls to take on further leadership roles as to take on further leadership roles as individual Captains of Sport in hockey, individual Captains of Sportcross in hockey, netball, rowing, swimming, country, netball, rowing, swimming, country, athletics and tennis.

This is cross in addition to athletics and tennis.

This is in addition their potential role as the School Gamesto their potential as the School Games Captain or Vicerole Games Captain.

Captain or Vice Games Captain.

Music Music Sixth Form girls benefit from a variety Sixth Form girls benefit from a activities variety of established extra-curricular of established extra-curricular activities that enrich their academic studies and that enrich their academic studies and the support personal development through support personal developmentcreativity through the acquisition of self-confidence, acquisition of self-confidence, creativity and performance skills. and performance skills.

Sixth Form take part in off-site events Sixthas Form take part in off-site events such the joint Merchant Taylors’ such as the joint at Merchant Taylors’ Schools’ Concert Birmingham Schools’ Concert Birmingham Symphony Hall inataddition to events Symphony Hall in addition to events at Merchant Taylors’ Hall, London, at George’s MerchantHall, Taylors’ Hall, London, St Liverpool, the Liverpool St George’s Hall, Liverpool, the Liverpool Philharmonic Hall and local Philharmonic Hall and local community venues. community venues.

Sixth Form can take part in various choirs, Sixth Forminstrumental can take partgroups, in various choirs, orchestra, the annual orchestra, instrumental groups, annual Music Competition and there is athe Joint Music Competition and there is a Joint Schools’ Band. Leadership opportunities Schools’ Band.

Leadership opportunities include the roles of Music Captain & Vice include the roles of Music Captain & Vice Music Captain, supporting the Director Music Captain, supportingevents the Director of Music in departmental and of Music in departmental events and providing leadership for the younger providing leadership for the younger pupils. The Music Committee provides pupils.Form The Music Committee provides Sixth with another platform to Sixth Form with anotherskills platform to develop their leadership through develop their leadership skills through the organization and promotion of the organization musical events. and promotion of musical events.

There is a long established and vibrant involvement by girls in Drama as an extra-curricular activity. Each year, over one hundred girls participate in the Joint Schools’ productions at the two senior schools. In addition to acting, dancing and singing, girls take responsibility for stage management, lighting and sound operation, prop making, make-up and front of house duties. There is a thriving Costume Club where girls of all ages make the costumes for the Girls’ School productions, developing their skills year on year, with Sixth Form helping to supervise and teach the younger girls.

Theatre visits to local and national theatre venues, organised for examination classes, are also available to girls outside the department and have been enjoyable social occasions. We also run a biennial week-long cultural visit to New York with a focus on drama activities, but also encompassing visits to galleries and places of cultural and historical interest.

CONTACT: Miss Miss LL.Hilton CONTACT: Barker Head of of Sport Sport Head

l.hilton@merchanttaylors.com l.barker@merchanttaylors.com CONTACT: Mr Miss E Gregson-Burt CONTACT: C Harrison Head of Drama & Theatre Studies Foundation Director of Music e.gregson-burt@merchanttaylors.com c.harrison@merchanttaylors.com CONTACT: Miss E Gregson-Burt Head of Drama & Theatre Studies e.gregson-burt@merchanttaylors.com

MerchantTaylors’ Taylors’Schools School Merchant

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rt & Design

ec i f ica t i o n – AQ A

Art&&Design Design Art – AQ S p Sp e c iecif f i c aica t i otnion – AQ A A

y choose Art & Design?

an exciting series of workshops and exploring the potential of different media exciting seriesofofworkshops workshopsand and to exploit visualseries language. anan exciting

ou have an interest or passion for Why choose & Design? choose ArtArt & Design? fashion,Why film, television, animation, exploring thepotential potentialofofdifferent different media the If you have an design, interest or passion for After exploring tiles, photography and then deciding a theme for your media If you have an interest or passion for to exploiton visual language. to exploit visual language. art, fashion, film, television, animation, art,is fashion, film, television, animation, Personal study, you will research different osing Art something to consider. textiles, photography and design, then After deciding on a theme for your textiles, photography and design, then artists’ After deciding on a theme for your approaches and develop your own choosing Art is something to consider.

Personal study, you will research different Art is something to consider. ideas,Personal study, you will research different ally youchoosing should achieve a 7 at GCSE experimenting and refining work artists’ approaches and develop your own artists’ approaches and develop your own el to be eligible to enrol but enthusiasm Ideally you should achieve a 7 at GCSE a personal response.

This will also ideas, experimenting and refining work Ideally you should achieve a 7 at GCSE towards ideas, experimenting and refining work to be eligible to enrol but enthusiasm be just aslevel important.

Universities and towards a personal response.

This will also be supported by a 1,000 word essay. level to be eligible to enrol but enthusiasm a personal response. This will also canincreasing be just as important.

Universities and towards ustries place emphasis on be supported by a 1,000 word essay. can be just as important. Universities and be supported by a 1,000 word essay. industries place increasing emphasis on dents and employees creative, industries place being increasing emphasis on students and employees being creative, aginative and independent thinkers. students and employees being creative,

imaginative and independent thinkers. imaginative and independent thinkers. at does ArtWhat & Design entail? does Art & Design entail?

What does Art & Design entail?

Youand will develop explore and develop ideas u will explore ideas Youusing will explore and develop ideasand aof wide range of and materials ng a wide range materials using a wide range of materials and and processes including print, ceramics cesses including print, ceramics and and processes including print, ceramics photography. tography. photography.

We teach AQA Art, Craft & Design and the Wespecification teach AQA Art, Craft & and Design teach AQA Art, Craft &comprises Design of: theand the specification comprises of: cification comprises of: • A Personal study (60% of the overall • Astudy Personal study (60% of the overall grade) Personal (60% of the overall grade) rade) • An externally set assignment which preparatory studieswhich followed by • An includes externally set assignment n externally which aset 15hrassignment supervised time element. includes preparatory studies followed by ncludes preparatory studies followed a 15hr supervised time element.by The firsttime two terms of Year 12 involve 15hr supervised element. their12skills through Thestudents first twodeveloping terms of Year involve

students skills through first two termsdeveloping of Year 12their involve dents developing their skills through 14

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Enrichment within Art & Design

Enrichment within Art & Design

Enrichment within Art & Design

During the course we visit different galleries and in recent years have During the course we visit different organised trips to Berlin, Edinburgh and galleries and in recent years have the Hepworth Museum.

at Shore Cottage on the Wirral. We have strong links with Liverpool School of Art at Shore Cottage on the Wirral. We have and Liverpool Hope University and have strong links with Liverpool School of Art hosted talks from lecturers and artists.

organisedat trips to Berlin, Edinburgh and During the course we visit different Shore Cottage on the Wirral. and WeLiverpool have Hope University and have This year our students have also enjoyed A number of artists also visit the school to the Hepworth Museum. hosted galleries and in recent years have strong links with Liverpool School oftalks Art from lecturers and artists. a photography workshop at Liverpool City use our printmaking facilities and to share organised trips to Berlin, Edinburgh andThisCollege Liverpool Hope Universitytheir and haveofwith andstudents a creativehave textiles day expertise our students. yearand our also enjoyed A number artists also visit the school to CONTACT: Mrs L. McWatt hosted talks from lecturers artists. the Hepworth Museum. a photography workshop at Liverpool City anduse our printmaking facilities and to share College and a creative textiles day

This year our students have also enjoyed a photography workshop at Liverpool City College and a creative textiles day

their expertise with our students.

A number of artists also visit the school to use our printmaking facilities and to share their expertise with our students.

Head of Art & Design

l.mcwatt@merchanttaylors.com

CONTACT: Mrs L. McWatt

Head of Art & Design

l.mcwatt@merchanttaylors.com

CONTACT: Mrs L. McWatt

Merchant Taylors’ School

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Biology Biology

S pecificati on – AQA Sp ecif ica t ion – AQ A

Why choose Biology?

Why choose Biology?

Biology is a very popular A Level choice Biology is a very popular A Level choice which is taught by four subject specialists which is taught by four subject specialists and offers a stimulating course that and offers a stimulating course that prepares students effectively for a wide prepares students effectively for a wide range of university courses. These range of university courses. These vary from Genetics, Microbiology and varyBiochemistry, from Genetics, Microbiology and to the highly competitive Biochemistry, to the highly competitive courses such as Medicine, Dentistry, courses such asSciences, Medicine, Dentistry, Biomedical Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, Pharmacy and year, Biological Sciences. “Each academic Biological Sciences.

In 2018,of30% our A2 a significant proportion ourof Biology cohort progressed to study one of of thethese latter, students progress to study one prestigious courses. prestigious courses”.

TheThe study of Biology at Merchant Taylors’ study of Biology at Merchant actively promotes of themany skillsofofthe Taylors’ activelymany promotes analysis self-reliance now expected skills and of analysis and self-reliance now expected to secure at the most to secure places at theplaces most competitive competitive courses at the top science coursesscience at the top universities.

The universities.

The Biology Department Biology Department feels many leading feels many leading students flourish students flourish in their A Level study, in their A Level study, the aims promoting the aims of promoting the department, of thetodepartment, namely topotential fulfil their namely fulfil their academic academic potential developing while developing their while natural curiosity their in curiosity in the living world. the natural living world.

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TheBiology BiologyDepartment Departmentrecommends recommends GCSE The GCSE7grade 7 as a minimum requirement grade as a minimum requirement to begin to A begin the A Level A minimum the Level course.

A course. minimum grade of 7 of 7 in and Chemistry and Mathematics ingrade Chemistry Mathematics GCSE would GCSE would be a distinct be a distinct advantage. advantage.

Thenew newseparate separatescience scienceBiology Biology GCSE GCSE has The has had new content added to it, and a had new content added to it, and a similar similar compulsory practical structure, compulsory practical structure, which thus which thus provides excellent continuity provides excellent continuity for the A for the A Level course.

Level course.

What does Biology entail?

What does Biology entail?

The content in each of the two years is The content in each of the two years is divided into four distinct modules. divided into four distinct modules.

In Year 12, topics covered include the study In Year 12, topics covered include the study of biological molecules, such as DNA, the offunctioning biological molecules, suchsystem, as DNA, thethe of the immune and functioning of the immune system, and the importance of genetic diversity in Biology. importance of genetic diversity in Biology.

In Year 13, we consider how organisms In Year 13, we consider how organisms respond to their environment and how respond to their environment and how geneexpression expressionisiscontrolled, controlled,including including the gene fascinating topic of gene technology.

Three the fascinating topic of gene technology. examination papers are taken at the end Three examination papers are taken at of Year 13,Year the third which is synoptic in the end of 13, theofthird of which is nature, and requires students write an synoptic in nature, and requiresto students essay. to write an essay.

Practical Practicalwork worktakes takesplace placeininthree three wellwell-resourced laboratories involves resourced laboratories andand involves observation and observationofofbiological biologicalmaterial material and fieldwork. fieldwork.

For the last three years we have had Enrichment within Biology For the last three years we have had Enrichmentwithin withinBiology Biology Enrichment To support and develop students several students awarded prestigious several students awarded prestigious The Biology Department has always taken further, the department offers exciting Nuffield Bursaries for Biology Study, and The Biology Department has always taken opportunities Studying at its A Level helps Nuffield Bursaries for Biology Study, great pride inBiology offering A Level students to develop subject scientific research will form the basis for and great pride in offering its A Level students toimportant make sense of the worldstudents knowledge scientific research will form the basis for increasingly extra academic and transferable key skills. the enrichment EPQ study of some increasingly extrastudents academic in which they important live. Therefore, enrichment EPQ of some Inthe recent years, this hasstudy included the enrichment.

A Level students. are encouraged to engage in learning enrichment. chance tostudents. work in university laboratories, A Level outsideinclude of the classroom.

Intellectual Activities National Competitions, attend seminars, workshops and support Activities National Competitions, curiosity isinclude promoted through research such as the Biology Olympiad (where academic research. Activities also such as the Biology Olympiad (where reading whilst the department ourand 2017wider cohort were very successful, include national competitions such as is also actively involved inmany the Oxbridge our 2017 cohort wereand very successful, gaining Bronze medals the Biology Olympiad, in which students programme, applications to study gaining Bronze medals and many commendations) and the academic, often achieve great success; in 2021 75% Medicine (or similar) and EPQ study. commendations) and the academic, debating challenges of Oxbridge and of participants were awarded certificates debating challenges Oxbridge and ranging between ‘commended’ and Harrison Group ScientificofStudies.

Harrison Group Scientific Studies. silver medals.

Our Head of Careers has also organised Our Head of Careers also organised a number of seminars forhas successful CONTACT: Mrs J Johnson a number of seminars forSchool successful biologists to come back into to CONTACT: Mrs J Blunt Head of Sciences CONTACT: Mrs J Johnson share their experiences since leaving biologists to come back into School to Head of Biology Merchant Taylors’. share their experiences since leaving Merchant Taylors’.

Head of Sciences j.johnson@merchanttaylors.com j.blunt@merchanttaylors.com j.johnson@merchanttaylors.com

Merchant Taylors’ School Merchant Taylors’ Schools

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B us inessss Busine

Specification – AQA Sp ecif ica t ion – AQ A

Why choose Business?

Why choose Business?

A level Business investigates the nature of A level Business investigates themanage nature their of organisations and how they organisations how they manage activities.and These organisations cantheir include activities. can include smallThese private organisations firms and large public companies small together private firms and large public companies with non- profit-making concerns. together non- of profit-making Thewith principles managementconcerns. and decision making are and then applied to The principles ofexamined management and decision case studies.

Theseand casethen studies demonstrate making are examined applied to the wayThese in which organisations face a case studies. case studies demonstrate number of inter-related problems. the way in which organisations face a

number of inter-related problems.

The A level Business specification requires no previous knowledge of GCSE Business.

The A level Business specification requires It has been designed to provide students no previous knowledge of GCSE Business. with a critical understanding of the internal It has been designed to provide students functions of contemporary business with a critical understanding of the internal organisations of all types together and the functions of contemporary businesswithin dynamic external environment organisations of all types together and the which businesses operate.

dynamic external environment within which businesses operate.

Thespecification specification and and assessment assessment should should The encourages students students to to follow follow business business encourages developments and and think think critically critically about about developments contemporary business business issues. issues. contemporary Mostof of the the assessment assessment material material is is based Most based real business situations, on realon business situations, examining examining and thinking critically about and thinking critically about real business real business situations.

Students will situations. Students will gain an insight gaindifferent an insight into different into contexts which contexts will help whichtowill help them to key understand the them understand the issues facing key issues facing businesses. businesses.

Whatdoes doesAAlevel levelBusiness Businessentail? entail?

What Thespecification specification will will enable enable students students to to The gain a thorough grounding of what really gain a thorough grounding of what really matters in in modern modern businesses businesses and and pupils pupils matters areintroduced introduced to to the the challenges challenges and and issues issues are involved in in aa business business such such as as research research involved andplanning, planning, as as well well as as the the factors factors that that and determine success. success. determine

The A level Business examination consists of 3 written papers, each 2 hours long.

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A level Business examination The questions range from multipleconsists choice of 3 writtenshort papers, eachquestions, 2 hours long. questions, answer data The questions rangetofrom multiple choice response questions questions based questions, short answer questions, data on case study scenarios. response questions to questions based Business Studies helps to develop on case study scenarios. skills such as: Business Studies helps to develop • Interpreting data skills such as: • Developing an analytical argument • Interpreting data • Making judgements based • Developing an analytical argument on available evidence.

• Making judgements based These skills will help you in your other on available evidence.

A Level subjects and at university. At the These will help you inshould your other end of skills the course, students have Levelunderstanding subjects and atofuniversity.

At the aAgood the skills needed endsuccessful of the course, students should have for business management a good understanding of the skillssolving needed and will be familiar with problem for successful business techniques.

This shouldmanagement enable you to and will be familiar with problem solving understand the issues which are of current techniques. should enable you to interest and This importance to businesses understand in Britain. the issues which are of current interest and importance to businesses A Level Business gives a useful insight in Britain. into the nature of management and can

A Level Business gives a useful insight stimulate higher education study in into thefields nature management and can related ofof Business Management stimulate higherIteducation studywith in and Economics. can be linked related of Business anotherfields subject to provideManagement a wide range and Economics.for It can be linked with of alternatives, example, marketing another subject provideforeign a wide range combined with atomodern language. of alternatives, for example, marketing Enrichment within Business combined with a modern foreign language.

We have strong links within industry, local Enrichment within Business universities and their Business Schools.

We strong within industry, local Ourhave alumni andlinks strong Merchant Taylors’ universities their opportunities Business Schools. network alsoand provide for the Our alumni and strong Merchant Taylors’ development and practical support to make network provide for the Businessalso come alive. opportunities We welcome past development and practical supportto togive make pupils and Business professionals Business come alive.

We welcome past lectures within the school and whenever pupils and professionals to give possible weBusiness attend external lectures. lectures within the school and whenever possible we attend external lectures.

CONTACT: FH Lawell​ CONTACT:Mr Mrs Irwin

Assistant Head – Assessment & Learning Head of Business & Economics f.lawell@merchanttaylors.com h.irwin@merchanttaylors.com

MerchantTaylors’ Taylors’Schools School Merchant

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Chemistry Chemistry

Sp ecif Rm Ch e myi sAtr ySpe A Scp code e c c o;d H432 e ; H4 3 2 Specificati o ica n –t ion OC – R OC C he istr

Why choose Chemistry?

Why choose Chemistry?

Chemistry is a demanding yet rewarding

Chemistry is a demanding yet rewarding A Level course, taught by four subject A Level specialists course, taught by four subject in three purpose-built specialists in three purpose-built laboratories. laboratories.

What Chemistry entail?

What doesdoes thethe Chemistry entail?

The Chemistry A Level course

The Chemistry A Level course encompasses three elements: encompasses three elements:

• Physical Chemistry - including

• Physical Chemistry including Atomic Structure, -Kinetics and Atomic Structure, Kinetics and Thermodynamics An A Level in Chemistry is essential for Thermodynamics An A Level in Chemistry isVeterinary essential Science for Medicine, Dentistry, • Inorganic Chemistry - Group Chemistry and many other science-related courses.

Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science and Transition Metals • Inorganic Chemistry - Group Chemistry Weother recommend that at least a grade 7 and many science-related courses. and Transition Metals • Organic Chemistry - including Alkanes, in GCSE Chemistry is needed in7order to We recommend that at least a grade Alkenes and Alcohols. embark on A Level study and preferably a • Organic Chemistry - including Alkanes, in GCSE Chemistry is needed in order to minimum grade 7 in Mathematics also.

Alkenes and Alcohols. embark on A Level study and preferably a Practical tasks are performed alongside minimum grade 7 transition in Mathematics also. the subject content, the knowledge and Indeed, the to A Level can be a Practical tasks are performed alongside application of which will be examined as taxing one and the department introduces the subject content, knowledge and Indeed, students the transition to A Level part of the writtenthe papers at the end of the to the Lower Sixthcan withbea a ‘pre-A application of which will be examined as taxing one and the department introduces full A Level course.

Level’ course. This covers the major studentsprinciples to the Lower with a ‘pre-A of theSixth subject visited at GCSE, part of the written papers at the end of the The department full A Level course. prides itself on its Level’ course. covers the majora firm with a This view towards ensuring thorough approach to teaching. We run grounding prior to visited A Level at studies. principles of the subject GCSE, adepartment rigorous practical The pridesschedule itself onalongside its with a view towards ensuring a firm bespoke notes and homework exercises Having an innate interest in and active thorough approach to teaching.

We run grounding prior to A Level studies. and wepractical provide extra support sessions curiosity for the subject is a prerequisite to a rigorous schedule alongside each week in which students have the the study of Chemistry at A Level. bespoke notes and homework exercises Having an innate interest in and active opportunity to bring any issues that curiosity for the subject is a prerequisite to and we provide extra support sessions require clarification. each week in which students have the the study of Chemistry at A Level. opportunity to bring issues that In short, the courseany is carefully engineered to give students every require clarification. chance to reach their potential; ultimately, In short, the success course is however, atcarefully A Level Chemistry relies heavily onstudents the commitment engineered to give every of the individual student towards continual chance to reach their potential; ultimately, revision and a desire to meet challenging however, success at A Level Chemistry topics withon intent. relies heavily the commitment of the

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individual student towards continual revision and a desire to meet challenging topics with intent.

Enrichment within Chemistry The Chemistry department provides a range of enrichment and extension activities to enhance the work covered in class. This enables aspirational chemists to demonstrate the independence of thought required to access demanding courses at reputable universities. Events are organised through the Royal Society of Chemistry, including the Olympiad for students in the Upper Sixth, the Cambridge Chemistry Challenge for the Lower Sixth and Spectroscopy workshops run by Liverpool University.

Competitive opportunities are also offered to Chemistry students of all ages, including the Top of the Bench and Young Analysts competitions, which involve Years 9 to 11 and Lower Sixth respectively.

CONTACT: Mrs V Copley

Head of Chemistry

v.copley@merchanttaylors.com

Merchant Taylors’ School

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Classical Civilisation S p ecif ec if ica t ion – OC R Sp

Why choose Why choose Classical Classical Civilisation?

Civilisation?

The Greeks and the Romans played a vital part in the development of the language, thought and culture of modern Europe.

Having an understanding of the Ancient World will help you make sense of the modern one.

This course is ideal for anyone who enjoys challenging discussions and appreciates beauty – both visual and literary.

Stories represent the human desire to communicate ideas and beliefs to future generations.

Even in today’s increasingly technological world there is no communication more intense than a story with the power to stir an emotional response.

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You will develop a wide range of transferable skills through this subject, such as analysing sources and developing independent, critical and evaluative approaches.

You learn to formulate and support an argument and develop a valuable understanding of cultures very different to your own.

Classical Civilisation A Level can lead to the university-level study of Classics, Drama, English, History, History of Art, Philosophy and Politics. Classical Civilisation is listed on UCL’s list of preferred A Level subjects and it is also listed on Trinity College, Cambridge’s list of Generally Suitable Arts A Levels.

It is also listed as a useful subject for degrees in Classical Studies and Philosophy in the Russell Group ‘Informed Choices’ document.

Information from UCAS shows that students who studied Classical Civilisation went on to study in such diverse disciplines as Medicine, Veterinary Science and Chemistry.

It is not only those looking to attend university who benefit from the study of Classical Civilisation. The proven ability to write a well-structured extended response to the acknowledgement of the views of others, and a culturally sensitive approach to these, puts Classics students in an excellent position to seek employment and opportunities.

You do not need to know any languages, all Throughout the two year course you will be the texts are studied in English translation, exposed to myths, heroes and villains, gods Throughout the two year course you will be You do not need to know any languages, all and it doesn’t matter if you haven’t studied and mortals: exposed to myths, heroes and villains, gods the texts are studied in English translation, the Greeks and Romans since primary and mortals: and it doesn’t matter if you haven’t studied • How the hero Odysseus struggled school;the allGreeks you need an interest the andisRomans sinceinprimary to• return home after the Trojan War, ancient worldall and cultures.

How the hero Odysseus struggled school; youits need is an interest in the fighting his war through hideous to return home after the Trojan War, ancient world and its cultures. monsters, orderhideous to a fightingand his restore war through What does Classical Civilisation entail? community invaded by aorder lawless monsters, and restore to amob What does Classical Civilisation entail? andcommunity save his besieged Studying Classical Civilisation will allow invadedwife. by a lawless mob you toStudying explore, through of the will oldest and save his besieged wife.

Classicalsome Civilisation allow • How love was viewed in ancient times, extantyou literature andthrough archaeological to explore, some of the oldest • How was viewed in ancient times, from thelove powerful and evocative poetry extant literaturepillars and archaeological sources, the cultural of Western from the powerful poetry of Sappho (one of veryand fewevocative female voices sources, the cultural pillars of Western society. of Sappho (one very few female to survive from theofancient world) tovoices the society. survive fromofthe ancientromance world) to the fun to and flirtation budding From women in the ancient world, to fun and of buddingraised romance in Ovid; howflirtation ethical questions From in beliefs the ancient world, to the study ofwomen religious and ancient in Ovid; howofethical questions raised by these ideas love, desire, sex and the study of religious beliefs and ancient acts of intolerance, Classical Civilisation by these ideas oftolove, desire, sex and acts of intolerance, Classical Civilisation sexuality continue be wrestled over involves interesting discussions that are sexuality continue to be wrestled over involves interesting discussions that are today. directly relevant to today’s world: today. directly relevant to today’s world: • How, after watching his city destroyed • How, after watching his city destroyed by rampaging Greeks, Aeneas flees the “… men grappled with exactly the same by rampaging Greeks, Aeneas flees the “… men grappled with exactly the same smouldering ruins and leads a band of issuesissues that we do: life, death, gods, sex, smouldering ruins and leads a band of that we do: life, death, gods, sex, refugees in a desperate search for a safe refugees in a desperate search for a safe love, family, children, education, the the home while still haunted by the final love, family, children, education, home while still haunted by the final image andand words of his wife who was nature of the world, our origins and image words of his wife who was nature of the world, our origins and lost lost during the fall of Troy. during the fall of Troy.

development, the past, money, health, development, the past, money, health, • status,status, otherother cultures, friendship, cultures, friendship, power, patriotism, politics, law,law, crime, power, patriotism, politics, crime, justice, empire, war.”war.” justice, empire, Peter Jones, advisor to Classics For All, Peter Jones, advisor to Classics For All, ‘Taking the View’ Long View’ ‘Taking the Long

Enrichment within Classical Civilisation Enrichment within Classical Civilisation Trips to Italy, Greece, London, various museums and theatres are offered Trips to Italy, Greece, London, various throughout the course. museums and theatres are offered throughout the course.

We also regularly share talks and ideas inWe ouralso Symposium jointlytalks withand Merchant regularly share ideas Taylors’ Boys’ School, giving you the in our Symposium jointly with Merchant opportunity to develop independent Taylors’ Boys’ School, giving you the research and to presentation skills while opportunity develop independent discovering more about theskills widerwhile ancient research and presentation discovering about the wider ancient world beyondmore the curriculum. world beyond the curriculum.

CONTACT: Miss J Johnson CONTACT: Miss J Johnson Head of Classics

Head of Classics

j.d.johnson@merchanttaylors.com j.d.johnson@merchanttaylors.com

How the the beautiful, awe-inspiring artart • How beautiful, awe-inspiring of Ancient Greece (statues, vases and of Ancient Greece (statues, vases and temples’ sculpture) developed over time, temples’ sculpture) developed over time, reflecting thethe Greeks’ artistic, religious reflecting Greeks’ artistic, religious societal values ultimately came andand societal values andand ultimately came to influence own concepts to influence ourour own concepts of of artart beauty. andand beauty.

Merchant Taylors’ School Merchant Taylors’ Schools

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Science Computer Science S p ecif ec if ica t ion – OC R Sp

Why choose Computer Computer Science?

Why choose

What does Computer the courseScience entail? entail?

What does

A Level Computer Science offers the Computer Science qualifications will chance for pupils to deepen their inspire and challenge students to apply knowledge and understanding of the knowledge they gain alongside the computing and of computation. It is not creative and technical skills they acquire. only for those who want to gain a grasp of programming languages and their The new qualification will be focused application but also of those who want on programming and will build on to gain an insight into how computers GCSE Computing and emphasise the affect and shape the world that we live importance of computational thinking in. It gives pupils the opportunity to as a discipline. imagine how they can play a part in the industries, economies and technological advancements of tomorrow.

Course structure Unit 1: The course delivers an in-depth This component will introduce learners understanding of computation and the to the internal workings of the Central ability to simulate a wide variety of Processing Unit (CPU), the exchange scenarios through the use of algorithms of data and will also look at software and programming such as decision development, data types and legal and making, the logic of computer games and ethical issues. It is expected that learners searching and sorting data. In the second will draw on this underpinning content year of the course pupils will have the when studying computational thinking opportunity to put this into practice when and developing programming techniques. they create their own software or perform an investigation into a certain area of Unit 2: computing such as 3D rendering, data This component will incorporate and build processing or mathematical simulation. on the knowledge and understanding gained in Unit 1. However, there will be a greater emphasis on the practical application of skills that have been taught.

This will ensure that students understand the principles of solving problems by computational methods so that they will be able to use algorithms in readiness for the Programming Project (Unit 3).

Unit 3: The Programming Project is a substantial piece of work which assesses a variety of different skills including the development and demonstration of computational thought processes (Unit 2). Students will need to choose, in liaison with their teacher, a well-defined user driven problem. Students then embark upon using their software skills to develop a solution to the defined problem.

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Types of learning As well as giving pupils the power to create their own software and systems the A Level Computer Science qualification also gives pupils an understanding of how computers function. The way they represent and store data, the way they interact with their users and function as a collective group of devices in a network. Pupils will also study the impact of computers on the wider world, considering their effect on society, culture, morality and ethics.

The qualification is examined in the form of two papers: “Computer Systems” and “Algorithms and Programming” as well as a programming project that places a huge emphasis on coding software from scratch; independently researching, designing, developing and testing the end product. Whilst a GCSE in Computer Science is not a requirement, pupils should have a high level of IT competency, a firm grounding in Mathematics and at least some experience of computer programming to give them the best possible chance of success in this course.

CONTACT: Mr T Higham

Head of Computer Science t.higham@merchanttaylors.com

Merchant Taylors’ School

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Design & Technology: Fashion & Textiles, Sp ecif ica t ion – OC R Why choose Design and Technology: Fashion and Textiles?

Design is a source of innovation, inspiration, and transformation that allows us to connect technology with innovative experiences, making it a powerful tool for change.

From the clothes we wear to new smart fabrics that are employed in space, fashion and textiles impact on our daily lives.

Studying this subject at A level enables students to develop the latest design thinking and specialist technical skills in a creative environment. This requires critical thinking and problem solving – key skills for the 21st Century. Students also develop a sound understanding of manufacturing and production processes and explore important issues of sustainability, ethics and the social impact of design.

There are a wide range of careers in the creative industries and beyond, that are directly related to this course, from fashion and product design to architecture and engineering; and design thinking is a highly valued skill, used to develop innovative solutions in many industries.

This A level provides an excellent natural progression for students who have studied the subject at GCSE. It is also possible to follow this course if you have a genuine interest in designing and making products. Candidates who have not studied the subject at GCSE can be accepted following a personal departmental assessment.

What does studying Design and Technology: Fashion and Textiles entail?

This course focuses on fashion and textiles products and accessories in a range of applications. Students analyse materials, process, trends and use in relation to industrial and commercial practices of fashion and textiles. They also develop and make prototypes and products that solve real-world problems whilst considering their own and others’ needs, wants, aspirations and values.

Assessment is through 2 written exams at the end of Year 13, and an iterative design project (NEA).

Both exams consist of short answer and extended responses.

Paper 1: Principles of Fashion and Textiles (26.7% of A Level) 1 hour 30 minutes

Paper 2: Problem solving in Fashion and Textiles (23.3% of A level) 1 hour 45 minutes Iterative Design Project (50% of A level) 65 hours The OCR specification for this course can be found at https://ocr.org.uk/ Images/304609-specification-accrediteda-level-gce-design-and-technologyh404-h406.pdf

Enrichment within Design and Technology Design and Technology is a rapidly evolving subject area. Our students are encouraged to utilise a range media, from magazines and websites to documentaries and podcasts to help develop their understanding of the latest developments and debates in the subject. This enables students to engage with a wide range of contemporary issues at the same time as developing their knowledge and understanding of the latest trends and fashions in relation to textile design.

Within school, students are supported to develop their practical skills through a range of clubs and workshops including designing and making costumes for school performances.

Design students are encouraged to take part in the STEM Texas trip to NASA, to develop their understanding of new technologies and the use of design thinking in advanced engineering.

During the course, students will have the opportunity to visit London to take part in workshops and explore the collections of leading design institutions including the Design Museum, the V&A and the Fashion and Textiles museum.

A trip to New York is also planned in collaboration with the Drama department, enabling students to access internationally renowned resources in a vibrant and inspiring environment.

CONTACT: Ms M Hutchins

Head of Design & Technology m.hutchins@merchanttaylors.com

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Merchant Taylors’ School

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Drama && Theatre Theatre Studies Studies ecif OC R SSp p ec if ica t ion – OCR

A Level Level Drama Drama && Theatre TheatreStudies Studies A A Level Level Drama Drama follows follows the the AQA AQA A specification and and is is taught taught on on aa cocospecification curricular basis basis between between both both boys boys and and curricular girls schools. schools. Challenges Challenges are are diverse diverse girls – from from studying studying and and performing performing play play – excerpts to to devising devising and and performing performing one’s one’s excerpts own plays plays for for an an audience. audience. Girls Girls can can also also own specialise in in technical technical fields. fields. Each Each year year specialise A Level Level students students have have the the opportunity opportunity A to take take part part in in workshops workshops with with visiting visiting to theatre companies companies and and practitioners. practitioners. theatre Residential trips trips to to New New York York and and London London Residential take place place on on aa biannual biannual basis basis and and take provide Sixth Sixth Form Form students students with with the the provide opportunity to to participate participate in in workshops, workshops, opportunity tour performing performing arts arts colleges colleges and and watch watch tour professional Broadway Broadway or or West West End End shows, shows, professional as well well as as visit visit places places of of cultural cultural and and as historical interest. interest. historical Performance Opportunities Opportunities Performance Girls have have the the opportunity opportunity to to be be Girls involved in in aa wide wide array array of of productions, productions, involved regardless of of whether whether they they study study Drama Drama regardless academically. Shows Shows are are designed designed to to academically. not only only provide provide aa platform platform for for the the not outstanding and and talented talented to to take take their their outstanding Drama to to the the next next level, level, but but also also to to urge urge Drama the apprehensive apprehensive and and shy shy to to experience experience the the thrill thrill of of theatre theatre and and be be aa part part of of the something special. special. The The major major showpiece showpiece something of the the year year is is the the Autumn Autumn Production, Production, of where students students from from the the senior senior girls girls where and boys boys schools schools combine combine to to create create aa and

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truly extraordinary extraordinary piece piece of of live live theatre. theatre. truly Students can can participate participate as as actors, actors, Students musicians, dancers, dancers, stage stage managers, managers, musicians, lighting and and sound sound technicians, technicians, set set paints, paints, lighting prop makers, makers, costumiers, costumiers, stage stage crew crew and and prop front of of house house staff. staff. front Edinburgh Fringe Fringe Project Project Edinburgh Following completion completion of of their their A A Level Level Following examinations, year year 13 13 students students have have the the examinations, opportunity to put together their own opportunity to put together their own performance which which they they showcase showcase at at performance the Edinburgh Edinburgh Fringe Fringe festival. festival. In In August August the 2019, year year 13 13 performed performed James James Chalmers’ Chalmers’ 2019, ‘A Payment Payment Unkind’ Unkind’ at at the the Sweet Sweet Venues Venues ‘A Grassmarket Venue.

Venue.

Grassmarket LAMDA LAMDA LAMDA courses courses in in Acting Acting and and Public Public LAMDA Speaking are are offered offered to to 6th 6th form form students students Speaking from Grade Grade 66 upwards. upwards. As As well well as as from accruing extra extra UCAS UCAS points, points, LAMDA LAMDA gives gives accruing the students students the the opportunity opportunity to to enhance enhance the their performance performance and and presentation presentation skills skills their whilst building their confidence and whilst building their confidence and self-esteem. Lessons Lessons are are taught taught to to girls girls self-esteem. as individuals individuals or or in in paired paired duologues duologues by by as Drama and and Theatre Theatre specialist specialist teachers. teachers.

Drama

‘The creative industries, for nearly a decade, are the fastest-growing part of the ‘The creative industries, the part ofofthe ‘The creative industries, fornearly nearlyacontribute adecade, decade,are are thefastest-growing fastest-growing partThey the economy.

UK’s creative for industries almost £90bn net to GDP. economy.

UK’s creative industries contribute net totoGDP. economy.

UK’s creative industries contribute almost£90bn £90bn net GDP. They account for one in 11 jobs, a rate rising more almost quickly than all other partsThey of the account for one 1111jobs, aarate rising more quickly parts account for oneinin jobs,also rate rising more quickly allother other partsofofthe the economy.

These jobs are among the least likely than tothan be all lost to automation.’ economy.

These jobs are also among the least likely to be lost to automation.’ economy.

These also among the least likely to be lost to automation.’ (‘Creative Industries arejobs Key toare UK Economy’ The Guardian 1st January 2017) (‘Creative Industries are Key toto UK Economy’ The Guardian 1st1st January 2017) (‘Creative Industries are Key UK Economy’ The Guardian January 2017)

CONTACT: Ms Ms EE Gregson-Burt Gregson-Burt CONTACT:

Performing Arts Studies Head of Drama & Theatre e.gregson-burt@merchanttaylors.com e.gregson-burt@merchanttaylors.com

Merchant Taylors’ Schools

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Merchant MerchantTaylors’ Taylors’Schools School

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Economics Sp ecif ica t ion – AQ A

What does Economics entail?

What The study study of of Economics Economics explains explains the the way way The the economy economy works works and and provides provides the the basis basis the to forecast forecast what what is is likely likely to to happen happen to to the the to economy in in the the future. future. Economics Economics is is the the economy discipline that that investigates investigates how how society society discipline can make make efficient efficient choices choices so so that that we we can can can maximise our our living living standards. standards. Studying Studying maximise Economics will will enable enable pupils pupils to: to: Economics • Develop Develop an an understanding understanding of of economic economic • concepts and and theories theories through through aa critical critical concepts consideration of of current current economic economic consideration issues, problems problems and and institutions institutions that that issues, affect everyday everyday life. life. affect

Why choose Economics?

Economics is the study of how individuals and groups make decisions with limited resources as to best satisfy their wants, needs and desires. We hear daily of unemployment, inflation, interest rates, productivity and the balance of payments.

The state of the economy affects our current and future standard of living and has come to dominate the media.

A level Economics applies economic theory to support analysis of current economic problems and issues, and encourages students to appreciate the interrelationships between microeconomics and macroeconomics.

Students develop the knowledge and skills needed to understand and analyse data, think critically about issues and make informed decisions.

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The specification is split into two main sections, the first section introduces students to microeconomic issues and the second section covers mainly macroeconomic issues. However, students should appreciate that microeconomics and macroeconomics are not entirely distinct areas of study.

For example, microeconomic principles often provide fundamental insights into understanding aspects of the macroeconomy.

• Analyse, Analyse, explain explain and and evaluate evaluate the the • strengths and and weaknesses weaknesses of of the the market market strengths economy and and the the role role of of government government economy within it. it. within

Mathematical and information technology Mathematical and information technology skills are essential. Therefore, it is skills are essential. Therefore, it is recommended that students have attained recommended that students have attained GCSE Mathematics at level 7 or above and GCSE Mathematics at level 7 or above and studying Mathematics at A Level would be studying Mathematics at A Level would be an advantage. an advantage.

The A A level level Economics Economics examination examination The consists of of 33 written written papers, papers, each each 22 hours consists long. The question paperspapers use a variety hours long.

The question use a of assessment styles including real-life variety of assessment styles including case studies dataand exercises to better real-life case and studies data exercises prepare for further and to better students prepare students forstudy further employment. study and employment.

At the end of the course pupils may At the end of the course pupils may wish to continue studying Economics wish to continue studying Economics at university. Economics can be studied at university. Economics can be studied alone or combined with a wide range of alone or combined with a wide range of other subjects such as a language, banking other subjects such as a language, banking and finance, Mathematics, Politics and and finance, Mathematics, Politics and Philosophy.

Philosophy.

No prior prior knowledge knowledge of of the the subject subject is is No required. However, However, Economists Economists need need to to be be required. good at at working working with with figures. figures. They They should should good enjoy looking looking at at aa page page of of numbers numbers and and enjoy working out out what what they they mean. mean. working

Economics has the potential to open many Economics has the potential to open many career opportunities beyond school and career opportunities beyond school and university due to the nature of its content university due to the nature of its content and the flexible skills that those who study and the flexible skills that those who study it then develop. it then develop.

Enrichment within Economics Enrichment within Economics We have strong links within industry, We have strong links within industry, local universities and their Business local universities and their Business Schools. Our alumni and strong Schools. Our alumni and strong Merchant Taylors’ network also provide Merchant Taylors’ network also provide opportunities the development and opportunities the development and practical support to make Economics practical support to make Economics come alive. We encourage pupils to join come alive. We encourage pupils to join our vibrant Economics Society and we our vibrant Economics Society and we welcome visiting speakers from our local welcome visiting speakers from our local universities and Industry. universities and Industry.

CONTACT: Mrs H Irwin

Head of Business & Economics CONTACT: Mr F Lawell​ h.Irwin@merchanttaylors.com Assistant Head – Assessment & Learning f.lawell@merchanttaylors.com

Merchant MerchantTaylors’ Taylors’Schools School

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English Language Sp ecif ica t ion - C IE Why choose English Language?

There has never been a more exciting time to study English Language at Merchant Taylors’. The English Language course places its focus firmly upon exploring the interpretive and creative skills of students.

What does the course entail?

Course structure There are two papers in the first year of the course - Passages for Comment invites students to explore the language and styles of a range of non-fiction and occasionally fiction extracts, while the Writing paper asks students to produce one creative piece, often fiction, and another written response for a different audience (perhaps a travel guide or an advice brochure).

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The second year of the course focuses on more theoretical approaches to the study of English Language, such as sociolinguistics and the acquisition of language. It is an excellent preparation for increasingly popular English Language and linguistics-based courses at reputable universities.

Types of learning English Language is a natural bedfellow for a number of Arts, Languages and Humanities A Levels, with both its creative and analytical focal points, but also serves to advantage those scientists looking to achieve crispness and clarity in their prose style.

Enrichment opportunities with English Language Above all, we are keen to empower our A Level students to write for local and national publications and to oversee the editing and production of our own literary magazine.

Collaborative and leadership skills are therefore vital – student should expect to be asked to lead assemblies and to work with younger pupils to hone their interest in writing.

CONTACT: Mr M Stanley m.stanley@merchanttaylors.com

Merchant Taylors’ School

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English EnglishLiterature Literature SpSp eciecif f ic aica tion –– AQA t ion AQ A

Enrichment within English Literature Enrichment within English Literature

Why choose English Literature?

Why choose English Literature?

What does English What does EnglishLiterature Literatureentail? entail?

A Level English Literature is is the perfect A Level English Literature the perfect course forfor students who have a love ofof course students who have a love reading and a passion forfor discussion. reading and a passion discussion.

Through study texts from a broad Through thethe study of of texts from a broad range of historical periods, you will learn range of historical periods, you will learn how to formulate critical viewpoints how to formulate critical viewpoints and express your ideas and opinions and express your ideas and opinions persuasively.

Discussion and debate persuasively.

Discussion and debate form integral part A Level willwill form anan integral part of of A Level English lessons, and you will write essays English lessons, and you will write essays regularly.

Therefore, English Literature regularly. Therefore, English Literature A Level is the ideal complement A Level is the ideal complement toto other humanities subjects, you will other humanities subjects, asas you will refine both your verbal and written refine both your verbal and written communication skills. communication skills.

We follow We followthe theAQA AQAAAspecification. specification.For For the examined the examinedpapers, papers,there thereare aretwo twokey key themes: themes:‘Love ‘Lovethrough throughthe theAges’ Ages’and and ‘TextsininShared SharedContexts’.

Contexts’.For Forboth both ‘Texts papers,students studentsenjoy enjoyundertaking undertakingan an papers, interdisciplinaryapproach, approach,whereby whereby interdisciplinary responsestototexts textsare areframed framedby byan an responses understandingofoftheir theirhistorical, historical,political political understanding and socialcontexts. contexts.You Youwill willhave havethe the and social opportunitytotostudy studycanonical canonicaltexts texts opportunity whichhave havebeen beeninfluential influentialininthe the which developmentofofEnglish Englishliterature, literature,such such development Othelloand andThe TheGreat GreatGatsby, Gatsby,but butalso also asas Othello the excitingchance chancetotodiscover discovernew new the exciting favourites,such suchasasOwen OwenSheers’ Sheers’poetry poetry favourites, collection, Skirrid Hill. collection, Skirrid Hill.

English literature ischallenging a challenging subject English literature is a subject and is therefore valued by a range and is therefore valued by a range ofof universities and subject departments, universities and subject departments, including Law departments. The including Law departments. The communication skills that you will communication skills that you will perfect are essential for a range of perfect are essential for a range of careers, including journalism, publishing, careers, including journalism, publishing, marketing, public relations, politics, law marketing, public relations, politics, law and media. and media.

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34 Merchant Taylors’ School Merchant Taylors’ Schools

For moststudents, students,the thehighlight highlightofof For most the courseisisthe theindependent independentcritical critical the course study: texts across time (Non-Examined study: texts across time (Non-Examined Assessment i.e. coursework). This involves Assessment i.e. coursework). This involves making an individual choice of two texts making an individual choice of two texts for comparison and most students take for comparison and most students take the opportunity to write about texts which the opportunity to write about texts which have been personally have been personally

The English Department encourages The English Department encourages students inin their creative endeavours students their creative endeavours outside of of the classroom and assists outside the classroom and assists students in entering both local and students in entering both local and national writing competitions.

Current national writing competitions.

Current students have been thethe recipients of of students have been recipients prestigious awards such as the Foyles prestigious awards such as the Foyles Young Poet Award and the Cuckoo Young Young Poet Award and the Cuckoo Young Writers Award and one of our English Writers Award and one of our English literature students is the Liverpool Writer literature students is the Liverpool Writer in Residence. in Residence.

In addition, a weekly extension workshop In addition, a weekly extension workshop is used to introduce students to a range of is used to introduce students to a range of wider reading and literary criticism which wider reading and literary criticism which is directly relevant to the examination is directly relevant to the examination texts. texts.

significant to their own lives. Choices in significant to their own lives. Choices in the past have ranged from Antigone, to the past have ranged from Antigone, to Middlemarch, to Pride and Prejudice and Middlemarch, to Pride and Prejudice and students have written on an impressive students have written on an impressive array of themes. array of themes.

CONTACT: Ms E Gerrard-Jones CONTACT: Ms E Gerrard-Jones Head of English

Head of English

e.gerrard-jones@merchanttaylors.com e.gerrard-jones@merchanttaylors.com

Merchant Taylors’ School

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Geography Geography S pSp e cecif i f i cica a t itoion n ––AQ AQAA

Why choose Geography?

Geography is an exciting, dynamic and challenging subject to study at A Level.

The world we live in is rapidly changing, perhaps more so now than ever.

Why choose Geography?

Geography students’ awareness Geography isincreases an exciting, dynamic and and understanding headline challenging subject toofstudy at Aglobal Level. issues and them tochanging, consider The world weempowers live in is rapidly how these issues can be tackled perhaps more so now than ever. to enable sustainable futures. It can be combined

Geography increases students’ awareness and understanding of headline global issues and empowers them to consider how these issues can be tackled to enable sustainable futures. It can be combined 36

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Merchant Taylors’ School

Merchant Taylors’ Schools

with many other subjects such as arts, sciences or languages, as it contains human, physical and environmental elements.

Manymany girls continue with Geography with other subjects such as arts, at university, either Russell or sciences or languages, as itGroup contains Oxbridgephysical and findand a whole raft of careers human, environmental available to them. Geography graduates elements. are extremely employable as they have multiple skills.

Many girls continue with Geography

at university, either Russell Group or Oxbridge and find a whole raft of careers available to them. Geography graduates are extremely employable as they have multiple skills.

What does Geography entail?

The Geography A Level looks at: • Three Physical Geography topics Glacial Systems and Landscapes, Water What doesCycles, Geography entail? & Carbon and Hazards

The Geography A Level looks at: • Three Human Geography topics Changing Places, Population and the • Three Physical Geography topics Environment, Global Systems and Glacial Systems and Landscapes, Water Global Governance. & Carbon Cycles, and Hazards • Three Human Geography topics Changing Places, Population and the Environment, Global Systems and Global Governance.

Students must also complete a fieldwork investigation of between 3,000 – 4,000 words on any aspect of the specification and this is worth 20% of the overall marks available.

In addition, students further develop a wide range of skills throughout the A Level course, including literacy (essay and report writing), numeracy (including statistical analysis), data collection and data presentation, sense of place, understanding of values and attitudes, teamwork, problem solving, decision making, independent learning and use of information and communication technology.

Enrichment within Geography Research and independent learning are very important aspects of the A Level course and students will undertake four days of field work. This includes a residential fieldtrip to Blencathra Field Study Centre in the Lake District as well as field work investigations in the local area.

There is also an optional bi-annual field trip to Iceland in order to investigate coastal, glacial and volcanic landscapes.

Throughout Year 12 and 13, students are also given the opportunity to attend lectures given by leading academics.

CONTACT: Mrs R Hames

Head of Geography

r.hames@merchanttaylors.com

Merchant Taylors’ School

37

History Sp ecif ica t ion – AQ A

WhatHistory does History entail?

What does entail?

UNIT 1UNIT 1 1G Challenge and Transformation: 1G Challenge and Transformation: Britain c1851–1964 Britain c1851–1964 This option allows students to study This option allows students to study in breadth issues of change, continuity, in breadth issues of change, continuity, cause and consequence in this period. cause and consequence in this period.

Why choose History?

The department’s aim is that all girls finishing their Sixth Form study have immersed themselves in a variety of historical periods in a number of

38

This course gives you the opportunity to work collaboratively and/or independently and will teach you transferable skills which will help you in other subjects, further studies and your future job.

The skills provided by History include the ability to select and organise information to put forward coherent arguments and to reach independent conclusions. These are central to Arts, Humanities and Science subjects at degree level.

History is an important subject if you want to study History, Archaeology, Politics at University. Some subjects at university also like you to have History as an A Level – e.g.

Law, Journalism, Business, Forensics, to name a few.

Employers also value the academic rigour and the resulting abilities in analysis and evaluation. History is taught by three subject specialists whose passion and enthusiasm for their particular areas of interest transfers to the girls.

Merchant Taylors’ School

• Bolshevik consolidation 1918-1924 • Bolshevik consolidation 1918-1924 • Stalin’s rise to power 1924-1929 • Stalin’s rise to power 1924-1929

Part Two: Stalin’s Rule 1929-1953 Part Two: Stalin’s Rule 1929-1953 • Economy and Society 1929-1941 • Economy and Society 1929-1941 • Stalinism, politics and control 1929-1941 Part One: Victorian and Edwardian Britain,• Stalinism, politics and control 1929-1941 Part One: Victorian and Edwardian • The Great Patriotic War and Stalin’s c1851–1914 • The Dictatorship Great Patriotic War and Stalin’s Britain, c1851–1914 1941-1953 • Reform and Challenge, c1851–c1886 Dictatorship 1941-1953 • Reform and Challenge, c1851–c1886 • Challenges to the status quo, c1886–1914 UNIT 3 • Challenges to the status quo, c1886–1914 UNIT 3 Historical Investigation Part Two: The World Wars and their Historical Investigation Part Two: The World Wars and their • This is a personal study based Legacies: Britain, 1914–1964 • This is aa topic personal study basedchoice.

Legacies: Britain, 1914–1964 on of the student’s • The Great War and its impact, 1914–1939 on a topic of the student’s choice.

• The • Great War and itsand impact, 1914–1939 • It is an internally assessed essay Transformation change, 1939–1964 of 3000-3500 words.

• It is an internally assessed essay • Transformation and change, 1939–1964 of• 3000-3500 40 marks words.

UNIT 2 • 40• marks 20% of the A Level UNIT 22N: Revolution and Dictatorship: • 20% the A Level Russia 1917-1953 2N: Revolution and Dictatorship: Weofare opting to study the Witch-hunts

As well as being academically rigorous, and well-respected by all universities, History is accessible to all abilities.

countries and have the ability to evaluate the validity of differing historical interpretations and a good understanding of historiography.

Russian Revolution PartPart One:One: TheThe Russian Revolution the Rise of Stalin, 1917–1929 and and the Rise of Stalin, 1917–1929 • Dissent Revolution 1917 • Dissent andand Revolution 1917

CONTACT: Mrs C Grindley

Head of History

c.grindley@merchanttaylors.com

Enrichment within History Enrichment within History

The department is very proud of The department is very proud of its commitment to extra-curricular its commitment to extra-curricular enrichment; Sixth Form girls are keen enrichment; Sixth Form girls are keen to pass on their enthusiasm to younger to girls passby ontaking their enthusiasm younger a lead in the to History Club. girls by taking a lead in the History Club.

They have the opportunity to attend They have the featuring opportunity to attend conferences eminent academics. of the 16th to and 17th the Centuries although RussiaThis 1917-1953 option provides for the study in depth We are conferences academics. opting study Witch-hunts In addition,featuring promisingeminent historians are students can17th workCenturies completely independently In encouraged of the provides coming and ofin communism addition, promising historians are to enter, and are supported of the 16th and although This option for practice the study depth and choose a different topic if they wish. in Russia.

It explores such as encouraged to enter, and are supported in, prize essay competitions often run by students can work completely independently of the coming and practice concepts of communism Marxism, communism, Leninism, and in, prize essay competitions often run by Oxbridge colleges.

Many enjoy widening and • choose a different topic they wish. in Russia. It explores concepts such as Factors contributing to if the development Stalinism, ideological control and dictatorship.

Oxbridge colleges.

Many enjoy widening their experience of historical debates by Marxism, communism, Leninism, and of the Witch-crazes It also enables students to consider issues • Factors contributing to the development attending Master at Oxford their experience of Classes historical debatesand by Stalinism, ideological control and dictatorship.

Groups involved in the Witch-hunts Witch-crazes of political authority, the power of individuals of• the the Debate Chamber, run at annually the attending Master Classes Oxford by and It also enables students to consider issues • Reasons for the decline of the and the inter-relationship of governmental • Groups University of London Union. involved in the Witch-hunts the Debate Chamber, run annually by the of political authority, the power of individuals Witch-hunts and economic and social change.

University of London Union.

• Reasons for the decline of the and the inter-relationship of governmental Witch-hunts and economic and social change.

Merchant Taylors’ School

39

Merchant Taylors’ Schools

35

atin ec ifica ti on – OCR

Latin

S pecif e cifica ttion O CR Sp ion – OC

And finally, but only but for only this for this And finally, tetracolon,tetracolon, Latin is fun!

Latin is fun!

Why choose Latin?

Why choose Latin?

Latin is a fascinating subject, subject, designed designed to to

Latin isinspire, a fascinating designed to challenge students motivatesubject, and challenge students inspire,as motivate and challenge encouraging themstudents to read read well as encouraging them to deeper understanding of as well widely as encouraging themunderstanding to read to gain a deeper of thegain life and cultureunderstanding of the the ancient ancient world. world. widely to a deeper of the life and culture of the ancient world.

Employers, such as GCHQ and MI5, often

Employers, such as GCHQ and MI5, often Latinists, because because of of seek to recruit Latinists, Employers, such as GCHQ and MI5, often their language skills and and code-breaking code-breaking seek to recruit Latinists, because of Cambridge University abilities, and Cambridge University their language skills and code-breaking as one one of of their their most most ranks its Classicists as abilities,employable and Cambridge University graduates because of of Arts graduates because the array of transferable transferable skills the subject ranks its Classicists as one ofskills theirthe most subject offers.Arts graduates because of employable

of the the ancient ancient Romans, Romans, showing showing us us the the of

of the ancient Romans, showing us the beauty and and clarity clarity of of the the language language our our beauty beauty andspoke. clarity of the language our ancestors ancestors spoke. ancestors spoke.

Latin demands demands academic academic rigour rigour Latin

and ademands a sustained sustainedacademic level of of high high quality Latin rigour and level quality thought.

The skills skills required to learn learn the thought.

The required to the and a sustained level of high quality underpinning grammatical concepts underpinning grammatical concepts thought.

The skills required to learn the and produce produce aa fluent fluent and and meaningful meaningful and underpinning grammatical concepts translation will will gift gift to to aa Latinist Latinist the the translation and produce a fluent and meaningful process of of knowledge knowledge acquisition acquisition itself itself process translation gift to athen Latinist the – once once this thiswill is mastered mastered then learning – is learning process of knowledge acquisition itself anything becomes easier. anything becomes easier.

– once this is mastered then learning Latin provides provides you you with with the the power power Latin anything becomes easier.

of reaching reaching aa reasoned reasoned conclusion conclusion of even when the terminology becomes even when the terminology provides you with thebecomes power the array of transferablelived skills subject and Latin in the our country country dense (never (never be be confused confused again again by by the the The Romans once lived in our and dense of reaching a reasoned conclusion offers. changed our history fundamentally. fundamentally. Latin Latin complexity of of aa sentence): sentence): such such high high order order complexity even when the terminology becomes opens a window into our our past, past, allowing allowing us us thinking is is vital vital in in today’s today’s fast-paced fast-paced thinking The Romans once livedculture in ourand country and dense (never be confused again by the and literature working world. to experience the culture literature working world.

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Merchant Taylors’ Taylors’ School Schools Merchant

changed our history fundamentally. Latin opens a window into our past, allowing us to experience the culture and literature

complexity of a sentence): such high order thinking is vital in today’s fast-paced working world.

no other academic satisfaction There is noThere otherisacademic satisfaction to the eureka of moment ofthe solving the equal to theequal eureka moment solving piece of atranslation. difficult translation. final piece final of a difficult Imagine listening to the rhetoric of Cicero

within Latin Imagine listening to the rhetoric of Cicero Enrichment Enrichment within Latin

as he lambasts the Senatorial jury to side as he lambasts the Senatorial jury to side Latin entail?

What does What Latindoes entail? with hiswith argument.

Swoon whenwhen Catullus his argument.

Swoon Catullus Throughout the A Level course you willwhispers to you to ofyou life’s brevity whispers ofprecious life’s precious brevity Throughout the A Level course you will continue to develop your language skills and thetoneed to find pleasure in human and the need find pleasure in human continue to develop your language skills to a point where you will be able to tackle as aagainst ward against despair. contactcontact as a ward despair. to a point where you will be able to tackle

Trips to Italy, Greece, London, Trips to Italy, Greece, London,various various museums andand theatres are offered museums theatres are offered throughout thethe course.

We also throughout course.

We alsoregularly regularly share talks and ideas ourSymposium Symposium share talks and ideas inin our jointly with Merchant Taylors’Boys’ Boys’ complex unseen passages with confidence jointly with Merchant Taylors’ complex unseen passages with confidence School, giving you the opportunityto to and flair.

This challenging skill takes time School, giving you the opportunity Blush as Ovid catches you unaware and Blush as Ovid catches you unaware and and flair. This skill takes timeyou will develop independent research and and challenging dedication but, increasingly, fills your earswords with words of such desire develop independent research and fills your ears with of such desire and dedication increasingly, you willmore presentation skills while discovering more noticebut, how your mind becomes that the world melts away and you could presentation skills while discovering more that the world melts away and you could about the wider ancient world beyond the notice howattuned your mind becomes to using words more with precision and quite forget that you are in a public about the wider ancient world beyond the quite forget that you are in a public curriculum. (and all the positiveand effects this attuned to pertinence using words with precision place… or slap him down for his cheeky curriculum. place… or slap him down for his cheeky have on your othereffects studies). pertinencewill (and all the positive this suggestions. React how you will to these suggestions.

React how writers, you willjust to these will have on your other studies). and other Roman do not You will also read some of the world’s and other Roman writers, just do not CONTACT: Miss J Johnson ignore them, for as Cicero says, “to know greatest literature in the original language Head of Classics ignore them, for Cicero “to know You will also read some of the world’s nothing ofas our past issays, to remain forever CONTACT: Miss J Johnson (no more dependent on the nuanced nothingchildren”, of our past remain forever j.d.johnson@merchanttaylors.com greatest literature in the original language andisif to Cicero’s words do not Head of Classics translations of others, you will be able to children”, and if Cicero’s doCatullus not (no more dependent on the nuanced work then perhapswords those of just j.d.johnson@merchanttaylors.com hear the author’s voice for yourself). might as he whispers: with just me, my translations of others, you will be able to work then perhaps those of “live Catullus darling, and let us love...” hear the author’s voice for yourself). might as he whispers: “live with me, my darling, and let us love...”

Merchant Taylors’ School

41

hematics Further hematics

ation – Mathematics Edexcel

and Further Mathematics Specification – Edexcel

ose Mathematics?

joy the challenge of problemWhy choose Mathematics? nd the satisfaction of solving Do you enjoy the challenge n? Are you analytical, logicalof problemsolving and the satisfaction of solving working?a question?

Do you like to make Are you analytical, logical and hard-working?

Do you like to make ns between different aspects connections between different aspects s within mathematics, science and topics within mathematics, science eal-worldand that seem themay real-world that may seem unconnected to others? ted to others?

Both Mathematics and Further Mathematics

Enrichment within Mathematics

Both applied sections use mathematical

Enrichment within Mathematics

modelling that require you to answer Both applied sections use mathematical qualitative questions that you to modelling that require you to ask answer interpret answersthat in the context qualitative questions ask you toof the model. interpret answers in the context of the model.

Support is available through regular Maths Clinics, which girls can use to either work Maths Support is available through regular independently or for help with Clinics, which girls can usehomework. to either work Weindependently encourage our Sixth pass or forForm help girls withtohomework. on their enthusiasm to younger girls by We encourage our Sixth Form girls to pass taking a lead in Maths Clinics and acting on their enthusiasm to younger girls by as Maths Ambassadors to younger pupils.

The Mathematics A Level course is designed to give you plenty of rigorous and consistent The Mathematics A Level course is designed practice of mathematical techniques, with to givestructured, you plentyunstructured of rigorous and consistent and challenge practice of mathematical techniques, with questions as your understanding and structured, unstructured and challenge confidence increases. Our entry requirement as A your understanding Level Mathematics is and a minimum developsquestions yourto study confidence of levelincreases.

7 at GCSE.Our entry requirement

The writing of structured solutions, proof Pure Mathematics further develops your ematics and Further Mathematics The writing of structured solutions, proof Pure Mathematics further are versatile qualifications, well-respected and justification of results will help you to understanding of algebra, equations, by employers and are both ‘facilitating’ and justification ile qualifications, well-respected of results will help youco-ordinate to understanding of algebra, equations, formulate reasoned arguments. geometry and trigonometry to study A Level Mathematics is a minimum subjects for entry to a wide variety of higher from GCSEco-ordinate and introduces new concepts and trigonometryFurther Mathematics A Level can be taken yers and are both ‘facilitating’ formulate reasoned arguments. geometry Throughout the course you will develop of level 7 at GCSE. education courses. The mathematical such as radian measure, exponential in addition to Mathematics A Level, but can excellent numeracy skills and the ability or entry toskills a wide variety of higher you learn in A Level Mathematics from GCSE and introduces new concepts and logarithm functions, calculus only be taken as aAfourth is a 2 Throughout the course you will develop to process and interpret data.

Further Mathematics Leveloption. can beThis taken of great benefit in other A Level courses.are The mathematical and sequences. such as radian measure, exponential year course with exams for both the AS and in addition to Mathematics A Level, but can subjects too, such as Physics, Chemistry, excellent numeracy skills andatthe ability For progression to many courses A Level taken at the end of the 2 years. learn in A Level Mathematics and logarithm functions, calculus only be Applied Mathematics involves both Biology, Computing, Geography, Psychology, taken as a fourth option. This is a 2 university it is important to have strong to process and interpret data. statistics and mechanics.

You will Business Studies. at benefitEconomics in otherand A Level year course withcontent exams includes for both Core, the AS and and sequences.

The course demonstrable mathematical skills. recognise statistics topics from GCSE: A Level taken at the end of the 2 years.

Decision and Further Mechanics. Core oo, such as Chemistry, GirlsPhysics, who have studied mathematics areFor progression to many courses at For most STEM degree courses A Level probability and probability distributions, maths involves some further pure Applied Mathematics involves both in the fortunate position of having an omputing, Geography, Psychology, Mathematics is a requirement and A Level data representation, data analysis and university it is important to have strong The course content includes Core,numbers, content, for example: complex excellent choice of career. There is still a Further Mathematics is often a preferred correlation.statistics and mechanics. You will Decision cs and Business Studies. andcalculus, Furthersequences Mechanics. further andCore series, mathematical skills. huge national demand from employers demonstrable in or desired subject. recognise statistics topics from GCSE: and matrices.

Decision Maths includes maths involves some further pure science, engineering and manufacturing Mechanics involves forces and motion, algorithms, critical path analysis and have studied mathematics arewho can For most content, for example: complex numbers, who have a need for students degree courses A Levelconstant and variable acceleration, probability and probability distributions, What STEM does Mathematics entail? linear programming.

Further Mechanics think logically and analytically. further calculus, sequences and series, kinematics, moments and projectiles. unate position of having an Mathematics is a requirement and A Level data representation, data analysis and looks at momentum and impulse, energy Mathematics A Level is a 2 year linear and matrices. Decision Maths includes solving problems at A choice ofThrough career.

There is still a Level youFurther Mathematics is often a preferred and power, elastic strings and elastic correlation. course with 3 exams taken that cover both algorithms, critical path analysis and will develop resilience and will be able to collisions. onal demand from employers in Pure and Applied topics. or desired subject. linear programming. Further Mechanics think creatively and strategically.

Mechanics involves forces and motion, looks at momentum and impulse, energy ngineering and manufacturing and power, elastic strings and elastic constant and variable acceleration, a need for students who can What does Mathematics entail? collisions.

42 Merchant Taylors’ School kinematics, moments and projectiles. cally and analytically.

Mathematics A Level is a 2 year linear

taking a lead in Maths Clinics and acting

Maths Ambassadors to younger pupils.

Allas Sixth Form mathematicians are entered for the Senior Maths Challenge set Sixth Form mathematicians are byAll UKMT, with many of our girls receiving entered for the Senior Maths Challenge set Gold, Silver and Bronze certificates in this national competition, withofan opportunity

by UKMT, with many our girls receiving forGold, the most successful to progress Silver and Bronze certificates in this further to either the National Olympiad or national competition, with an opportunity Kangaroo Mathssuccessful Competition. for the most to progress further to either the National Olympiad or

The Further Mathematics course is more challenging than Mathematics and so our entry requirement is a minimum of level 8 at GCSE. However, having Level The Further Mathematics courseAis more Further Mathematics on your university challenging than Mathematics and so application is an excellent to makeofit our entry requirement is a way minimum stand out.

level 8 at GCSE. However, having A Level Further Mathematics on your university application is an excellent way to make it stand out.

Some universities require or recommend Kangaroo Maths Competition. girls to take an additional entrance qualification when applying for certain Some universities requirecourses. or recommend undergraduate Mathematical girls to take additional entrance Staff at the Girls’an School provide both one applying for certain to qualification one tuition forwhen STEP and MAT papers undergraduate Mathematical courses. and facilitate access to online preparation courses forthe independent study.

Staff at Girls’ School provide both one

to one tuition for STEP and MAT papers and facilitate CONTACT: Mrs J access Angwinto online preparation courses for independent study.

Head of Mathematics j.angwin@merchanttaylors.com

CONTACT: Mrs J Angwin

Head of Mathematics

j.angwin@merchanttaylors.com

Merchant Taylors’ School

43

Modern Foreign Languages Modern Foreign Languages

Specification – AQA

Specification – AQA

What is assessed: • Aspects French/ German / Spanish What is of assessed: society: current trends • Aspects of French/ German / Spanish • Aspects ofcurrent Frenchtrends speaking/ Spanish society: speaking/ German society: • Aspects of Frenchspeaking speaking/ Spanish current issues. speaking/ German speaking society: current issues.

• Artistic culture in the French/ German/ Spanish speaking world.

• Artistic culture in the French/ German/

The school offers French, German and Spanish at A Level. There are six subject The school offers specialists andFrench, girls willGerman enjoy theand support of native Spanish and German Spanish at A French, Level. There are six subject speakers or additional speaking specialists and girls will enjoy thelessons. support ThereFrench, are alsoSpanish weekly grammar clinics of native and German to help girls improve their linguistic speakers or additional speaking lessons. competence.

There are also weekly grammar clinics to help improve their linguistic Thegirls study of a Modern Foreign Language extends naturally from the skills developed competence.

at GCSE and it is normally expected that girls wishing to studyForeign A Level will have The study of a Modern Language achieved at least a level 7 at GCSE. extends naturally from the skills developed

at GCSE and it is normally expected that girls wishing to study A Level will have achieved at least a level 7 at GCSE.

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Merchant Taylors’ School

but also to develop knowledge and understanding of to thedevelop culture and issues but also knowledge and concerning the country of the language understanding of the culture and issues being studied. Lessons will be conducted concerning the country of the language as far as possible in the target language being studied. Lessons will be conducted and the skills of listening, reading, Why choose a Modern Foreign Language? asand farwriting as possible the target language speaking will bein constantly The study of a Modern Foreign Language and the skills of listening, reading, developed. Students will work with spoken Why choose a Modern Foreign Language? at A Level is highly valued by both and written materials sources such speaking andfrom writing will be constantly universities alike. 17%Language of the as radio and TV programmes, articles from The studyand of aemployers Modern Foreign developed. Students will work with spoken UK`s universities insist on competence at Atop Level is highly valued by both magazines, andmaterials brochures. from sources such andbooks written in a foreign language in order to study any universities and employers alike. 17% of the as radio and TV programmes, articles from What do Modern Foreign Languages degree with them.

UK`s top universities insist on competence entail? magazines, books and brochures.

With of thelanguage world`s research is to study any in a90% foreign in order conducted outside the UK, language skills The A Level qualification in Foreign all three Languages What do Modern degree with them. are at the heart of many global challenges Modern entail?

Languages offered at the school is from terrorism to international crime. is With 90% of the world`s research linear.

outside the UK, language skills The A Level qualification in all three “Ifconducted you speak to a man in a language he Subject Content: are at the heart of many globalIf challenges understands, that goes to his head. you Modern Languages offered at the school is issues and trends fromtoterrorism to international crime. • Sociallinear. speak a man in his own language, that goes to his heart.“ Nelson Mandela.

• Political and artistic culture “If you speak to a man in a language he • Grammar Subject Content: Work for an advanced level language is If you understands, that goes to his head. wide and varied and is designed not only • Literary texts and films and trends • Social issues speak to a man in his own language, that to develop skills in using the language, goes to his heart.“ Nelson Mandela.

• Political and artistic culture Work for an advanced level language is wide and varied and is designed not only to develop skills in using the language,

Spanish speaking world.

• Grammar • Grammar How it is assessed: How it is assessed: • Paper 1 written examination 2hours • Paper 1 written examination 2hours 30 (reading, writing and listening 30 (reading, writing exercises).

This paper and willlistening include exercises).

ThisEnglish paper will translation from intoinclude the target translation English into the target language and from vice versa. language and vice versa.

• Paper 2: written examination 2 hours.

• Paper 2: written hours.

One question to beexamination answered in2the One question to be answered in the target language on a set text or play target language on a set text or play and one question to be answered in the and one question to be answered in the target language on a film, text or play. target language on a film, text or play.

• Oral examination: 21 – 23 minutes • Oral examination: 21 – 23 minutes (including 5 minutes preparation time) (including 5 minutes preparation time) • One of four themes (current issues, • One of four themes (current issues, Artistic culture, Aspects of political life).

Artistic culture, Aspects of political life).

Discussion of of a sub –– theme Discussion a sub themebased basedon onaa stimulus card. stimulus card.

Enrichment within Modern Foreign Language Enrichment within Modern Foreign Language The department uses the latest online

The department also offers a wide range of literary texts, journals and DVDs which The department also offers a wide range give students the opportunity to undertake of literary texts, journals and DVDs which independent language work outside the give students the opportunity to undertake classroom. language work outside the independent

courses to deliver the syllabus and girls The department uses the latest online have the to use of iPods lessons and an courses deliver the in syllabus and girls classroom. individual playback in assessments Girls are encouraged to visit the country have the use of iPodsfacility in lessons and an and examinations. relevant to their A Level studies and there individual playback facility in assessments Girls are encouraged to visit the country will be opportunities to accompany one and examinations. relevant to their A Level studies and there of the organised school visits such as the will be opportunities to accompany one trip. Over school recentvisits yearssuch many ofParis the organised asSixth the Formtrip. language students undertaken Paris Over recent yearshave many Sixth worklanguage experience in France, Germany or Spain.

Form students have undertaken work experience in France, Germany or Spain.

Such ventures enable you to gain Such ventures enable you toAgain invaluable skills for your Level studies invaluable forhighly your Asuccessful Level studies and have skills proved in the and have highly successful the past andproved the department activelyinsupports past and the department actively supports such schemes. such schemes.

CONTACT: Mrs C Y Whalley CONTACT: Mrs C Rudall

Head of Modern Foreign Languages Head of Modern Foreign Languages y.whalley@merchanttaylors.com c.rudall@merchanttaylors.com

• Individual Research Project: • Individual Research Project: • Presentation and discussion • Presentation and discussionofof individual research project (topic individual research project (topicchosen chosen by by thethe student). student).

• Grammar • Literary texts and films

Merchant School MerchantTaylors’ Taylors’ Schools45 41

Music

Music

Specif ication – AQA

Sp ecif ica t ion – AQ A

Why choose Music?

Why choose Music?

If you want learn moremore about performance, If you to want to learn about performance, historical works, composition andand theory historical works, composition theory then this theiscourse for you.

If you areare thenisthis the course for you.

If you planning a vocational career in music planning a vocational career in music – bein that in teaching, performance – be that teaching, performance or or composition, course give composition, then then this this course willwill give you the grounding you need to move you the grounding you need to move on on to a specialist degree course.

However, to a specialist degree course.

However, it it is also suited to those that simply love the is also suited to those that simply love the subject, enjoy performance and want to subject, enjoy performance and want to develop their skills in this area. develop their skills in this area.

A level Music is a highly regarded subject,

A leveleither Music is a highly regarded alongside other creative subject, courses or eitherin alongside other creative or demonstrating a broader courses range of skills in demonstrating a broader range next to Science, Maths or otherof skills non-creative subjects. next to Science, Maths or other non-creative subjects.

Whilst Music can be a useful subject for andcan Media university, WhilstArts Music be courses a usefulatsubject for the most obvious pathway is going on Arts and Media courses at university, to a degree in Music, which can lead the most obvious pathway is going on to a range of exciting career options, to a degree in Music, which can lead including becoming a professional to a range of exciting options, musician, a soundcareer technician, a music including becoming a professional therapist, a teacher, or a private tutor.

musician, a sound technician, a music Jobsathat are less related therapist, teacher, or directly a private tutor.to a

Music degree, but where a Music degree could beless verydirectly valuablerelated includeto arts Jobs that are a and work in radio, theatre Musicadministration, degree, but where a Music degree and events management. could be very valuable include arts

administration, and work in radio, theatre and events management.

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Merchant Taylors’ School

Theoretical and aural skills are a

Theoretical andaspect aural of skills are a and fundamental the course fundamental aspect of the course and provide excellent preparation for the provide excellent preparation for the study of music in higher education. study of music in Merchant higher education.

Musicians from Taylors’ Girls’ Musicians from Merchant Taylors’ Girls’ School have gone on to study music at School have on to study music at degree levelgone at prestigious universities degree level at prestigious universities and music colleges. and music colleges.

What does Music entail?

What does Music entail?

Although there is a practical element to this course you learn much aboutto Although there iswill a practical element thecourse theories and historical examples this you will learn much aboutthat have shaped not only Western high art the theories and historical examples that music but also other musical genres.

have shaped not only Western high art music butMusic also other genres.

A Level offersmusical opportunities to

develop both performance [solo and/or

A Level Music offers opportunities to ensemble] and composition skills. develop both performance [solo and/or ensemble] and composition skills.

In the composition component students but also assisting whenever possible.

In the composition component students but also assisting whenever possible. A will create music which draws on their A Level Music students help run a series will create music which draws on their Level Music students help run a series own experience and enthusiasm. They will of lunchtime concerts and take part in ownlearn experience and enthusiasm. of lunchtime andmusical take part in also the rules of harmony and They apply will assemblies.

Theyconcerts are in effect also learn the rules of harmony and apply assemblies.

They are in effect it writing chorales in the style of Bach. The ambassadors and set an example tomusical other it writing chorales in the style of Bach.

The ambassadors course builds on the knowledge and skills girls in the school.and set an example to other coursefrom builds on the knowledge girls in the school. gained GCSE Music through and skills Extra-curricular opportunities include gained from GCSE Music through the compulsory Area of Study ‘Western include theExtra-curricular annual in-house opportunities Music Competition, the compulsory of Study ‘Western classical traditionArea 1650-1910’ as well as the annual in-house Music Competition, school concerts, visits, tours, attending studying optional Areas ofas Study; classicaltwo tradition 1650-1910’ well as professional concertsvisits, and undertaking school concerts, tours, attending students a secure studyingwill twotherefore optionaldevelop Areas of Study; work experience.

In short, the life of a professional concerts and undertaking grounding in musical history and analysis. students will therefore develop a secure successful A Level music student islife always work experience.

In short, the of a grounding in musical history and analysis. rich and interesting. successful A Level music student is always Enrichment within Music

Enrichment within Music

Students opting to study A Level Music at Merchant Taylors’ Girls’ School join Students opting to study A Level Music a thriving department and can take at Merchant Taylors’ Girls’ School join part in the numerous extra-curricular a thriving department and can take activities which occur every day of the part in the numerous extra-curricular week. Students take an active role in the activities which occur every day of the department, not only attending rehearsals

rich and interesting.

CONTACT: Mrs M Gervasoni

Teacher of Music

CONTACT: Mr C. Harrison

m.gervasoni@merchanttaylors.com

Foundation Director of Music c.Harrison@merchanttaylors.com

week. Students take an active role in the department, not only attending rehearsals Merchant Taylors’ School

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Philosophy Speci fi ca ti o n – AQ A Why choose Philosophy?

Philosophy seeks to answer questions about ideas and the world that we normally take for granted.

One philosopher, Stephen Pyke, describes philosophy as ‘thinking in slow motion’.

In other words, a philosopher changes the focus of their enquiry to cover not just science or history or maths, but the underlying assumptions that allow us to study those subjects at all. Questions about the nature of reality, how we acquire knowledge and whether there is any purpose to existence are all philosophical questions. In fact, if you keep asking ‘why’ about any question, scientific, linguistic, historical or mathematical you will always eventually end up with a philosophical question rather than the one you started with. Philosophy underpins everything.

If you are still wondering what philosophy is, don’t stop reading yet.

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What does the course entail?

Course structure Philosophy A level consists of two papers each covering two topics. Together they provide an introduction to several broad philosophical themes. Those themes are: Year 1 – Epistemology and Ethics: • The study of knowledge • H ow and whence we derive our system of morals Year 2 – Metaphysics: • The nature and existence of God • T he philosophy of mind and nature of reality Types of learning If you are thinking of studying Philosophy be ready for lots of discussion and ‘arguing’, reading and essay writing. The ability to express ideas and opinions both verbally and on paper (something that

subjects like History and English prepare you for) is an advantage. There are lots of new concepts to challenge you and you will gain invaluable skills in reasoning and logic.

Enrichment opportunities within Philosophy The department has an extensive library of books and journals for wider reading and a range of extension activities are offered to help students develop their analytical skills.

There is also the opportunity to attend various philosophical and ethical conferences relating to the course.

CONTACT: Mr R Fawcett r.fawcett@merchanttaylors.com

Merchant Taylors’ School

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Physical Education Sp ecif ica t ion – OC R

Why choose Physical Education?

An A Level in Physical Education is an excellent base for a university degree in sports science, sports management, healthcare, or exercise and health.

Physical Education can also complement further study in biology, human biology, physics, psychology, nutrition, sociology and many more.

A Level Physical Education takes candidates through a rigorous programme of academic study across a range of disciplines and topics such as: Fluid Mechanics, Ethics and deviance in sport, Muscle function and types of contractions, Leadership, Aggression and the Emergence of the Olympic Games.

A Level Physical Education is taught by three subject specialist staff across the senior boys’ and senior girls’ schools. Each staff member focuses on an aspect of the course which is their own speciality, covering each of the three papers and the non-examined assessment.

Students studying A Level Physical Education benefit from small class sizes with the use of our state of the art Ian Robinson Sports Centre, complete with its own teaching block.

It is recommended that a GCSE grade of at least a Level 7 in Biology is required in order to begin the A Level course.

It is also essential that aspiring A Level Physical Education students have an active commitment to competitive/high performance sport either in or out of school.

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What does Physical Education entail?

What Whatdoes doesPhysical Physical Education Education entail? entail?

Theory lessons work towards preparing Theory lessons work towards preparing Theory lessons work towards preparing students for three separate exams. The students The students for for three three separate separate exams. exams. The newly reformed A Level specification puts newly puts newly reformed reformed A A Level Level specification specification puts an increased emphasis on the Anatomy an an increased increased emphasis on the Anatomy and Physiology section. and and Physiology Physiology section.

Enrichment in Physical Education Enrichment in in Physical Physical Education Education Enrichment The Department offers an engaging The Department offers an engaging The Department offers an engaging theoretical course where students’ theoretical course course where where students’ students’ theoretical curiosity this subject is developed curiosity forfor this subject is developed developed curiosity for this subject is alongside their continued practical their continued continued practical practical alongside their involvement. involvement. involvement.

This topicarea area is examined in a twoThis This topic topic area is examined in a twohourpaper paperat the end two years and hour the end ofof two years and hour paper atat is is weighted at 30%.

Students simultaneously weighted weighted at at 30%. Students simultaneously studyfor fortwo twoseparate separate papers study papers onon study for two the topics of Sports Psychology and the topics of Sports Psychology and the topics of Contemporary factors sport.

Each Contemporary factors inin sport.

Each Contemporary of of thesetopics topicsare are examined a one-hour these examined inin a one-hour these topics paperand andeach each are worth 20% the final paper are worth 20% ofof the paper and each final mark.

The course is delivered through mark.

The course is delivered through mark. The course boththeoretical theoretical and practical sessions, both and practical sessions, both theoretical givingstudents students the chance directly giving the chance toto directly giving students observeand andexperience experience aspects the observe aspects of of observe and the content asasthey they content learn it.it. contentas they learn

Students can begin to apply their Students can begin to apply apply their can begin to their theoretical understanding to their own theoretical understanding to their their own theoretical understanding to own performances in school teams and performances in in school school teams teams and and use useuse performances their study of the A Level PE to support study of of the the A A Level Level PE PE to to support support their study their own practical development. their own practical development. practical development.

The non-examined The isis worth 30%.

Students Thenon-examined non-examined worth 30%.

Students must be able one must perform in,in, oror coach mustbe beable abletoto perform coach one sport, selected sport, from the OCR specification sport,selected selected from the OCR specification list.

This aspect list. ofof the course encourages list.This Thisaspect aspect the course encourages our students their sporting our ourstudents studentstotomaintain maintain their sporting commitments commitments throughout their commitments throughout their AALevel Level study.

A Levelstudy. study.

InInthe the second In ofof the course thesecond secondyear year the course students assess assess and critically evaluate students students assess and critically evaluate performance in their chosen activity aaaperformance performance in their chosen activity (EAPI). They They (EAPI). then apply their (EAPI). Theywill will then apply their theoretical understanding understanding of the course theoretical theoretical understanding of the course to create create a programme of improvements to to createa aprogramme programme of improvements based on on their their selected selected weaknesses. weaknesses. based based on their selected weaknesses.

Students also provided with areare also provided with thethe Students are also provided with the opportunity to attend trips, including opportunity to attend attend trips, including thethe opportunity to trips, including the annual Girls Gold conference.

This Girls GoGo Gold conference.

This annual Girls Go Gold conference.

This allows students to attend practical allows students to attend attend practical triptrip allows students to practical seminars and lectures on prominent and lectures on prominent prominent seminars and lectures on sporting topics. topics. sporting topics.

Students also have plenty of also have plenty of opportunities opportunities Students also have plenty of opportunities to take part in varied extracurricular part in the the varied extracurricular to take part in the varied extracurricular programme within the school. programme within thethe school. programme within school.

They areare able to at high level in able to compete compete at aaat high level in in They able to compete a high level a number of different sports and use their of different sports and use their a number of different sports and use their performance and experiences to performance and experiences to improve improve performance and experiences to improve their practical score. practical score. their practical score.

Students have the chance to part in have thethe chance to take take partpart in in Students have chance to take county and regional tournaments which and regional tournaments which county and regional tournaments which provide vital opportunities for level vital opportunities for high high level provide vital opportunities for high level competitive evidence. competitive evidence. competitive evidence.

CONTACT: CONTACT: Miss Miss L.Hilton L. Barker CONTACT: Miss L. Barker

Head of Girls’ Games Head of of Girls Games Head Girls Games

l.hilton@merchanttaylors.com l.baker@merchanttaylors.com l.baker@merchanttaylors.com

MerchantTaylors’ Taylors’Schools School 51 45 Merchant Merchant Taylors’ Schools 45

Physics Sp ecif ica t ion – OC R Ph y s i c s A

Why choose Physics?

Are you interested in understanding the technology that surrounds you – how it works and how to create ever more useful gadgets? Does safeguarding our energy supply while saving the planet strike you as a worthwhile career aim? You might like to improve prosthetic limbs or replacement heart valves, or to develop better instruments and machines to care for the critically-ill or prematurely-born.

The careers options are endless if you study Physics, and the skills you develop are sought after in all walks of life. Its analytical approach to problem-solving, its development of rational thinking skills and its emphasis on investigative and practical skills make Physics a universally-respected A Level for university entrance.

The skills developed in studying Physics are relatable and desirable to all professions.

By studying Physics you are taken on a journey from the subatomic to the outer reaches of our universe. It is fundamental to all that is around us and studying it makes you stand out from the crowd.

What does Physics entail?

The topics covered at A Level Physics are already familiar from GCSE and you will develop your knowledge of forces, waves, radioactivity, electricity and magnetism.

You will look at these areas in more detail and find out how they are interconnected.

You will also learn how to apply maths to real-world problems and explore new areas such as quantum phenomena and special relativity. Most importantly however, you will develop skills that can be transferred to just about any other area of work, from medicine to business to law.

Even if you don’t want to become a Physicist, learning to think like one will help you get to the root of any problem and draw connections that aren’t always obvious to others.

These skills are obtained by being given abstract problems and completing required practical work throughout the course, collecting and analysing data.

encouraging our students in all aspects It It is not necessary to study A Level Enrichment within Physics of Physics, whether medical, engineering Mathematics to achieve the highest grade Mathematics encouraging our students in all aspects It is not necessary to study A Level Learning doesbased. not just take place in the in A Level Physics. We teach the required in or astronomy of Physics, whether medical, engineering Mathematics to achieve the highest gradeclassroom and our strong extra-curricular mathematical techniques as an integral mathematical or astronomy based. in A Level Physics.

We teach the required programme focuses on engaging and In recent years several of our students part of the course for all students and also part Each year we have a number of pupilsand who and further their passion for Physics encouraging our students in all Nuffield a mathematical techniques asfor anScience’ integral have been awarded prestigious also offer additional ‘Mathematics for offer additional ‘Mathematics choose to study Physics or Engineering invite former Physics university graduates spectsIn ofrecent Physics, whether Placements atseveral themedical, end of Science’ lessons for anyone who needs lessons anyone who extra years oftheir our students part of thefor course for allneeds students and alsoResearch based at university. guide back todegrees share their experiences. and further We their passion for Phys engineering or astronomy based.

Lower Sixth year.

Being part the Physics Nuffield extra support. support. have been awardedofprestigious offer additional ‘Mathematics for Science’ them each stepinvite of the way ensuring former Physics university g Partners Group also means that girls who Almost 50% of our last cohortare went their UCAS applications fullon of Research Placements at the end ofthat their lessons for anyone who needs The opportunities provided by dedicated Our entry requirement to A extra Level Regular Physics Clinics arestudy run throughout back to share their experiences. study Physics at Merchant Taylors’ Girls’ to Universities of their choice to study Lower Sixth year. Being parttoof theenriching Physics activities. support. staff are endless, chance Physics minimum ofensuring level 7 atthat GCSE the weekisata lunch times, School may have including the uniquethe opportunity Physics or Engineering courses and take part in the national XMaS scientist Physics andgiven a minimum of level 7to atseek GCSE all girls are the opportunity Partners Group also means that girls Almost 50%ofof our last cohort wen to collaborate with students from nearby we who guided them every step the way, experience competition, has Taylors’ Girls’ Regular Physics Clinics are run throughout Mathematics. assistance and further develop their skills, study Physics atwhich Merchant schools.

Such opportunities include ensuring their to UCAS application was full choice to s Universities of their included from MTGS each them to reach their true potential. theallowing week at lunch times, ensuring that acting as winners Physics Ambassadors andyear opportunity of enriching activities.

School may have the unique Physics or Engineering courses a that we have Thein prize?

A four with entered. pupils from which they all girls are given the opportunity to seek working to collaborate with students from nearby we guided them every step of the Our entry requirement to study A Level day trip to Grenoble to visitand the act ESRF. host Physics Masterclasses as role assistance furtherofdevelop schools.

Such opportunities include Physics is and a minimum level 7 attheir GCSE skills,Staying ensuring their UCAS application w closer to home we allow our models for younger students. allowing reach their true Physicsthem and a to minimum of level 7 atpotential.

GCSE Physics students to act as role models acting as Physics Ambassadors and enriching activities.

CONTACT: Mrsof J Lynch Mathematics. to younger pupils by enabling them working with pupils fromto in whichHead they of in Physics Recent activities have seen students Second Science Our entry requirement to study A Level attending run masterclasses in primary schools, from leading scientists, hostlectures Physics Masterclasses and act j.lynch@merchanttaylors.com as role Enrichment within Physics developing a wealth of skills.

Our trip Physics is a minimum of level 7 at GCSE trips to CERN, involvement in national models for younger students. to Texas to take part in the NASA space and even a trip to NASA, Physics and a minimum level at GCSEcompetitions Learning does not just takeof place in 7 the CONTACT: Mrs J Lynch university programme, is run every Texas. We encourage girls to take part in classroom and our strong extra-curricular Mathematics.

Recent have seen students Second in Science three years andactivities is a highlight intheir the a range of activities to develop skills programme focuses on engaging and schoolattending calendar. lectures from leading scientists, j.lynch@merchanttaylors.com

Enrichment within Physics 52

Merchant Taylors’ School

Learning does not just take place in the classroom and our strong extra-curricular

trips to CERN, involvement in national competitions and even a trip to NASA, Texas. We encourage girls to take part in a range of activities to develop their skills

MerchantTaylors’ Taylors’Schools School Merchant

53 47

Enrichment within Politics

Politics Sp ecif ica t ion – AQ A Why choose Politics?

Politics is a dynamic A level that will help you develop essential skills such as analysis, forming an argument and thinking independently.

The subject is in the news every day and there are always contemporary issues which have relevance to the course. The current era is particularly interesting, with Britain’s departure from the EU, unpredictable party politics in the UK, and the various controversies associated with the Trump presidency.

A well respected A Level choice, Politics is useful for a range of degree courses. Many of our students have gone on to study Politics at university, often in combination with subjects such as Economics and History. However, it is also useful for those wishing to study other subjects such as Law and Sociology, and even courses in the sciences or Medicine as these students benefit from being able to develop structured and analytical work.

Politics A Level is also good preparation for those wishing to pursue a career in Journalism, the Civil Service and Law. One of our ex-pupils has worked in the European Parliament in Brussels, but we have yet to produce our first MP.

What does Politics entail?

Students need to keep abreast of recent political developments such as the UK General Election, Britain leaving the EU and the Congressional Elections in the USA, as well as the impact of leading political personalities. This is what makes Politics an ‘up to the minute’ A Level.

For the student, Politics is a new subject, so no prior study of Politics is needed, although it is expected that students will have an interest in current affairs.

The course is examined as follows.

Module 1: Government and Politics of the UK The British Government section covers the British Constitution, the structure and role of Parliament i.e. the House of Commons and House of Lords, the work of MPs, the Prime Minister and the Cabinet, the judiciary and devolution i.e. the Scottish Parliament, Welsh Assembly and Northern Irish Assembly.

The section on Politics looks at democracy, political participation, voting behaviour, election systems (including referenda), political parties, pressure groups and protest movements, and the EU.

Module 2: Government and Politics of the USA and Comparative Politics

The department is very proud of its commitment to extra-curricular Learning about Politics helps students to enrichment; Sixth Form girls are keen understand the world in which they live. to pass on their enthusiasm to younger Through a study of newspapers, textbooks, girls by leading the Debating Society Enrichment within Politics The department is veryofproud of and newsEnrichment programmes, thePolitics course develops within department is very proud toThe encourage lively discussion and its commitment to extra-curricular its commitment to extra-curricular the students’ political awareness. of opinions. They have Learning about Politics students todevelopment Learning about Politics helpshelps students to enrichment; Sixthgirls Form enrichment; Sixth Form aregirls keenare keen opportunity to visit the Houses of understand world in which understand the the world in which they they live. live.the to pass on their enthusiasm to younger to pass on their enthusiasm to younger This gives them an insight into current Through a study of newspapers, textbooks, Parliament and participate in workshops Through a study of newspapers, textbooks, girls by leading the Debating girls by leading the Debating Society Society issues and such as the anddebates, news programmes, the factors course develops and news programmes, the course develops on process. to the encourage lively discussion and tolaw-making encourage lively discussion and which influence voting behaviour, electoral thethe students’ political awareness. students’ political awareness. development of opinions.

They have development of opinions.

They have reform and the influence of pressure the opportunity to visit to thevisit Houses of the opportunity the Houses of This gives them an insight into current gives them an insight into current Parliament and participate in workshops groups and This protest movements on the Parliament and participate in workshops Mr G Evans issues andand debates, suchsuch as the issues debates, asfactors the factors CONTACT: on theon law-making process. government.

Overall, the subject develops the law-making which influence voting behaviour, electoral Teacher of Politics process. which influence voting behaviour, electoral a student’s general knowledge, along with reform and the influence of pressure reform and the influence of pressure g.evans@merchanttaylors.com groupsskills. and protest movements on the their debating CONTACT: Mr G Evans groups and protest movements on the

CONTACT: Mr G Evans government. Overall, the subject develops The section on the US Government Module 2: Governmentcovers and Politics government. Overall, the subject developsTeacher of Politics Module 2: Government and Politics Teacher of Politics a student’s general knowledge, along with the Constitution,ofCongress (i.e.Comparative the SenatePolitics the USA and a student’s general knowledge, along with g.evans@merchanttaylors.com of the USA and Comparative Politics their debating skills. g.evans@merchanttaylors.com and the House ofThe Representatives), the their debating skills. section on the US Government covers TheConstitution, section on the US Government covers President and Cabinet. the Congress (i.e. the Senate the Constitution, Congress (i.e. the Senate and the House of Representatives), the

and the House of Representatives), the The section on US politics covers the President and Cabinet.

President and Cabinet. electoral process and direct democracy, The section on US politics covers the voting behaviour,electoral political parties The section on US politics covers the process and direct democracy, (Democrats and Republicans), and voting behaviour, political parties electoral process and direct democracy, pressure groups and protest movements.

(Democrats and Republicans), and voting behaviour, political parties pressure groups protest movements.

(Democrats andand Republicans), and

There is also a section comparing pressure groups andBritish protest movements.

There is also a section comparing British government and politics with the USA, government politicscomparing with the USA, There is alsoand a section e.g. the constitutions, andCongress and British e.g. theCongress constitutions, government and politics with the USA, Parliament, the president prime and prime Parliament,and the president e.g. the constitutions, Congress and minister, the judiciaries, political parties minister, the judiciaries, political parties Parliament, the president and prime and pressure groups. and pressure groups. minister, the judiciaries, political parties and pressure groups.

Module 3: Political Ideas

Module 3: Political Ideas

This unit3:covers political Module Political Ideasideologies such

This unit covers as political ideologies such conservatism, socialism and liberalism, This unit withcovers nationalism andideologies feminism.such as conservatism,along socialism andpolitical liberalism, as conservatism, socialism and liberalism, along with nationalism and feminism. along with nationalism and feminism.

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Merchant Taylors’ School

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Psychology Psychology S p eci f i ca ti o n – AQA Sp ecif ica t ion – AQ A

What Whatdoes doesPsychology Psychologyentail? entail?

A ALevel Level Psychology Psychology comprises comprises three papers: papers: •• Papers Papers 11 and and 22 are are studied studied in in the L6 year and and Paper Paper 33 in in the the U6 U6 year. year.

•• Paper Paper 1:1: Introductory Introductory Topics Topics in Psychology.

Psychology. The The topic topic areas areas studied are are Memory, Memory, Psychopathology, Psychopathology, Social Influence Influence and and Attachment.

Attachment.

•• Paper Paper 2: 2: Psychology Psychology In In Context.

Context. The topic topic areas areas studied studied are are Approaches, Approaches, Biopsychology Biopsychology and and Research Research Methods and and Statistics.

Statistics.

Why Why choose Psychology? choose Psychology?

Psychology is theisscientific study of the Psychology the scientific study of the mindmind and human behaviour.

Psychologists and human behaviour.

Psychologists observe and conduct experiments to find observe and conduct experiments to find out more the way people act and out more aboutabout the way people act and interact. to understand what interact.

TheyThey try totry understand what motivates, challenges or changes motivates, challenges or changes us us andthis use understanding this understanding to help and use to help us us approach personal and social problems. approach personal and social problems.

Psychology is a very popular A Level Psychology is a very popular A Level choice at Merchant Taylors’ and is taught choice at Merchant Taylors’ and is taught by two dedicated teachers who demand by two dedicated teachers who demand It is recommended that a GCSE grade the very best from all students studying It is recommended that a GCSE grade the very best from all students studying of at least a Level 7 in both English and the course. of at least a Level 7 in both English and the course.

Mathematics is required in order to begin Mathematics is required in order to begin To be an effective Psychology student, it the A Level course.

To be an effective Psychology student, it the A Level course. is expected that wider reading and study is expected that wider reading and study If you choose to study Psychology you’ll beyond the specification is undertaken.

If you choose to study Psychology you’ll beyond the specification is undertaken. be able to hone your analytical and be able to hone your analytical and The Department prides itself on organisational skills and learn about The Department prides itself on organisational skills and learn about scientific research methods, including consistent, excellent examination results scientific research methods, including consistent, examination results collecting and working with data. and theexcellent number of previous pupils who collecting and working with data. and the number of previous pupils who have gone on to read this subject at have University. gone on to read this subject at University.

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56 Merchant Taylors’ School Merchant Taylors’ Schools

Paper 3: 3: Issues Issues and and Options Options in •• Paper Psychology. The The topic topic areas areas studied Psychology. are Gender, Gender, Forensic Forensic Psychology, Psychology, are Schizophrenia and and Issues Issues and and Debates Schizophrenia in Psychology.

Psychology. in Each paper paper is is aa two-hour two-hour examination examination and Each worth 96 96 marks. marks. worth Learning about human behaviour can Learning about human behaviour can also help to build your communication also help to build your communication skills and improve your teamwork and skills and improve your teamwork and leadership skills. leadership skills.

The style style of of the the examination examination questions questions The comprises of of multiple multiple choice, choice, shortshortcomprises answer responses responses and and extended extended writing. answer Enrichment within withinPsychology Psychology Enrichment The Department Department offers offers aa stimulating stimulating The and engaging engaging theoretical theoretical course course where where and students active active curiosity curiosity for for this this subject subject students is developed in preparation for the wide is developed in preparation for the wide variety of of Psychology Psychology related related courses courses at at variety University. A A wide wide range range of of enrichment enrichment University. and extension extension activities activities are are undertaken undertaken and

in order to enhance the material material studied studied in class and to enable aspiring psychologists psychologists the opportunity to develop their their analytical analytical thinking skills.

Pupils are provided with the opportunity opportunity to attend various trips, including including the the annual Criminology Conference.

Conference. Eminent Eminent lecturers in the field of both Criminology Criminology and Forensic Psychology present present key key issues in the style of a University University lecture lecture and this has proved to be an enjoyable enjoyable and and engaging trip for previous pupils. pupils.

CONTACT:Miss MissSSLadbrook Ladbrook CONTACT:

Headof ofPsychology Psychology Head

s.ladbrook@merchanttaylors.com s.ladbrook@merchanttaylors.com

Merchant Taylors’ Taylors’ Schools School 57 51 Merchant

Religious Religious Studies SSp p eecif c i f i ica c a tti ion o n –– OOC C RR

What does Religious Studies entail?

A Level Religious Studies comprises of three papers which are studied in both the L6 Year and U6 Year. Each examination paper is two hours and requires pupils to answer three essay questions from a choice of four. Each essay question is marked out of 40.

Whychoose chooseReligious ReligiousStudies?

Studies?

Why Areyou youinterested interestedin indeveloping developing your your Are abilityto toreason reasonand andargue arguelogically? logically? ability Areyou youconsidering consideringaacareer careerin in medicine, medicine, Are law,science scienceor orpolitics, politics,where wherean an law, understandingof ofethics ethicswill willbe be valuable? valuable? understanding Areyou youinterested interestedin inconsidering considering major major Are philosophicalquestions questionssuch suchas as whether whether philosophical thereisisproof proofGod Godexists? exists? there so,then thenReligious ReligiousStudies Studiesmay may be be the the IfIfso, course for you. course for you.

58 Merchant MerchantTaylors’ Taylors’Schools School 52

Religious Studies allows you to have the Religious the opportunity to discuss your ideas about opportunity about some of the most challenging and exciting some exciting issues of our time, such as whether there issues there is aa satisfactory satisfactory explanation for existence is existence of evil evil and whether there is the possibility of possibility of life life after death. of

religious, religious, philosophical philosophicalor orethical ethicalissue issue and and to to present presentaabalanced balancedargument, argument, reaching reaching aa personal personalconclusion. conclusion.

Religious Studies offers breadth and depth Religious depth in its its study study of of religion religion from in from a a variety variety of of perspectives, including including the perspectives, the interpretation interpretation of religious religious texts, texts, the the sociology sociology and of and psychology of of religion religion and psychology and the the impact impact of religious religious thinkers. thinkers. It It will of will also also teach teach you how to write extended answers you how to write extended answers on on aa

The The course course accommodates accommodatesthe theneeds needs of of students students who whohave havenot notcompleted completedaa GCSE GCSE in in Religious ReligiousStudies, Studies,whilst whilstallowing allowing others others the the opportunity opportunityto tobuild buildupon uponthe the knowledge, knowledge,understanding understandingand andskills skills already already gained gainedin inthe theGCSE GCSEReligious Religious Studies course.

Studies course.

The The specification specificationis isan anintellectually intellectually demanding demandingand andacademic academiccourse courseand and compliments complimentsboth bothScience Scienceand andArts Artsbased based Advanced Advanced subject subjectchoices. choices.

Paper 1: Philosophy of Religion - topics include arguments about the existence or non-existence of God, the nature and impact of religious experience and the challenge for religious belief of the problem of evil.

Paper 2: Religion and ethics - topics include normative ethical theories, the application of ethical theory to euthanasia and business ethics and the influence of ethical and religious thought on sexual ethics.

Paper 3: Developments in Religious thought - topics include beliefs about death and the after-life, Christian moral principles and action, gender and society and the challenge of secularism.

Enrichment within Religious Studies The department has an extensive library of books and articles for wider reading.

A range of extension activities are offered to help students develop their analytical skills.

There is also the opportunity to attend various philosophical and ethical conferences relating to the specification.

CONTACT: Mr A Hill

Teacher of Religious Studies a.hill@merchanttaylors.com

Merchant Taylors’ School

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Oxbridge Oxbridge

University Applications At MTGS we place great emphasis on helping and supporting students so that they can make the best decisions for themselves regarding higher education choices. For this reason we provide a structured programme of preparation and support for application to university through UCAS, which administers all UK Higher Education applications.

Lower Sixth During the Lower Sixth year dedicated sessions, as part of the PSHE programme, offer detailed guidance on researching and choosing courses so that students can make informed decisions about their future.

During the Spring and Summer terms Lower Sixth students may be invited to a guidance interview with our UCAS Director or Career Advisor in order that individually tailored support and advice can be offered. This will look at undertaking recommended work or voluntary experience and research, in addition to attending relevant courses or other events which can make all the difference when making applications to the most competitive institutions, such as those belonging to the Russell Group of universities, as many of our students do.

CONTACT: Mrs J Mayne

Head of Sixth Form

j.mayne@merchanttaylors.com

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Merchant Taylors’ School

Those girls who wish to consider options other than university are referred to experts within the Careers Department where bespoke advice is given about career routes.

The final weeks of Lower Sixth include a visit to the Merseyside Higher Education Conference, where there is an opportunity to discuss courses with representatives from a wide range of universities.

We then hold an information evening for parents and an intensive preparation period follows, with students working closely with form tutors preparing personal statements, a vitally important element of their application.

Upper Sixth Support continues throughout the application process in Upper Sixth, with completion of applications, interview preparation and practice as well as a mentoring programme to meet the specific needs of applicants to Oxford and Cambridge.

Our aim is to ensure that each student makes the right decision about her future direction and is well-equipped to pursue it.

International Universities For those who choose to study at international universities the same level of assistance is provided during what can seem a daunting process. Throughout Lower and Upper Sixth, UCAS clinics offer individuals the chance to discuss any aspect of application for degree level study and they are encouraged to talk through their plans from an early stage in their A Level studies.

All students complete a detailed questionnaire, administered by Cambridge Occupational Analysts, in order that interests and academic strengths can be identified, encouraging them to become aware of and consider a wide range of degree courses, often beyond their A Level subjects.

Initially within School, sessions focus on

Initially withinwhat School, sessionsapplication focus on outlining an Oxbridge outlining whatthe ancharacteristics Oxbridge application involves, that Oxford involves, the characteristics that Oxford and Cambridge look for in potential and Cambridge look for ininpotential students and advice order to prepare for students and advice in order to prepare for an application. an application.

In the Spring Term, Lower Sixth students

then Term, given the chance tostudents attend the In theare Spring Lower Sixth Oxbridge Regional Conference are then given the chance to attendwhich the is usually heldConference at Aintree Racecourse.

Oxbridge Regional which This provides them with an excellent is usually held at Aintree Racecourse. opportunity to hear the Admissions This provides them withfrom an excellent Teams, tutors and current students at opportunity to hear from the Admissions both universities and gain advice on Teams, tutors and current students at course choice and the wider application both universities and gain advice on process. In the Summer Term students course choice and the wider application are encouraged to visit either an Oxford or process.

In the Summer Term students Cambridge University Open Day, to allow are encouraged either aninstitutions Oxford or students to to getvisit a feel for the Cambridge University Open Day, to allow themselves. students to get a feel for the institutions themselves.

Once a student has made the decision to apply at thehas start of the Upper Sixth, Once a student made the decision then support becomes more individually to apply at the start of the Upper Sixth, tailored and subject mentors guide then support becomes more individually students in extending their subject tailored and subject mentors guide knowledge, preparing for entrance tests students in extending their subject and interviews.

knowledge, preparing for entrance tests andThe interviews. annual Oxbridge Symposium, which is a joint venture with the Boys’ School,

Theisannual Oxbridge Symposium, which an important opportunity for applicants is atojoint withofthe Boys’ School, gainventure experience discussing their is an important opportunity for applicants to gain experience of discussing their

subject in an academic setting, both exploring defendingsetting, their ideas: subject in and an academic both valuable experience when it comes exploring and defending their ideas: to the rigorous interview process.

valuable experience when it comes to the rigorous interview process.

CONTACT: Mr J. Whitton

Director of Enrichment & Co-curricular

CONTACT: Mr J. Whitton

Director of Enrichment j.whitton@merchanttaylors.com & Co-curricular j.whitton@merchanttaylors.com

Merchant Taylors’ School

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Leavers’ Destinations 2021

Course Destination Choice 2021

University of Liverpool

Psychology

University of York

Biomedial Sciences

Newcastle University

Geography

University of Leeds

Business Management

University of Nottingham

Pharmacy

In 2021, more than 95% of our girls left to take up university places across the UK and beyond. The range of courses included Archaeology & History at York, Biochemistry at Imperial College London, Law at Leeds, Geography at Newcastle and Biomedical Sciences at Warwick.

Other student destinations included a full scholarship to the Northern Ballet School and a place on the highly competitive Art Foundation course at Central St Martins, London.

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Merchant Taylors’ School

Merchant Taylors’ School

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Liverpool Road, Crosby, Liverpool L23 0QP. Call: 0151 949 9366 www.merchanttaylors.com

@MerchantsCrosby /merchanttaylorscrosby @MerchantsCrosby