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History - A Level
COURSE OUTLINE & ASSESSMENT
The course covers a range of historical periods, each examined by a separate paper.
Unit 1 The Crusades, c1095-1204
Assessment: a 135 minute examination comprising two essays and a question about evaluation of interpretations. 30% of A Level.
Unit 2 Anglo-Saxon England and the Anglo-Norman Kingdom, c1053-1106
Assessment: a 90 minute examination. One question is focused on source material, and the other will be an essay. 20% of A Level.
Unit 3 Rebellion and disorder under the Tudors, 1485-1603
Assessment: a 135 minute examination. One question is based on primary source material, one question will be an essay to assess student understanding of the period in depth, and one is an essay to assess the breadth of understanding across the whole time period studied. 30% of A Level.
Unit 4 (coursework) Germany and the outbreak of the First World War.
Assessment: an extended and fully referenced essay of 4,000 words. The purpose of this coursework is to enable students to develop skills in the analysis and evaluation of interpretations of history in a chosen question, problem or issue as part of an independently researched assignment. Students carry out an independently researched enquiry to analyse and evaluate interpretations. 20% of A Level.
DETAILS
Subject Leader: Mrs E Grossman
Exam board and course/syllabus No:
Pearson Edexcel Syllabus 9H10
Independent study commitment:
Five hours per week
Additional course entry requirements:
GCSE History at grade 6 or above.
WHAT DOES IT COMBINE WELL WITH?
English Literature, Religious Studies, Geography and Modern Foreign Languages all complement one another at advanced level. However History can be taken alongside any other subject to provide a balanced nature of study.
WHY STUDY HISTORY?
This course aims to develop a student’s interest in and enthusiasm for History, and an understanding of its intrinsic value and significance. It also allows students to acquire an understanding of different identities within society and an appreciation of social, cultural, religious and ethnic diversity through the study of aspects of British and non-British history.
WHERE CAN IT LEAD?
The study of history helps develop research and analytical skills as well as the ability to present information and argument. These skills are valuable in a variety of careers including law, politics and economics.
A wide range of university courses accept History as a subject that proves students had the skills required to progress to the next level of study.
History A Level can lead to studying History at university, which could then contribute to a career in areas such as law, teaching, journalism, PPE. Other courses also require an essay-based subject, so History also complements applications for medicine.
COURSE OUTLINE & ASSESSMENT
Students will develop a common core of IT knowledge and study areas such as the relationship between the hardware and software that form an IT system, managing and processing data to support business and using IT to communicate and share information.
Paper 1: Information technology systems
The use of computer systems and the implications of their use in personal and professional situations.
Assessment: written exam of two hours. 33% of BTEC.
Paper 2: Creating systems to manage information
The design, creation, testing and evaluation of a relational database system to manage information.
Assessment: 5 hour exam split into two sessions. Completed and submitted electronically. 25% of BTEC.
Non-exam assessment: Using Social Media in business
Students will explore the impact of social media on the ways in which businesses promote their products and services. They will develop a plan to use social media in a business to meet requirements.
Assessment: internal with external moderation. 25% of BTEC.
Non-exam assessment: Data Modelling
Understand how and why businesses use spreadsheets. Students will design and build a spreadsheet to solve a specific business problem.
DETAILS
Subject Leader: Mr S Parker
Exam board and course/syllabus No:
Pearson Edexcel 601/7575/8
Independent study commitment:
Five hours per week
Additional course entry requirements:
GCSE English and Mathematics at grade 5 or above.
WHAT DOES IT COMBINE WELL WITH?
Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Computer Science, Media Studies.
WHY STUDY INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY?
IT is everywhere and every day IT changes the world. By studying IT students can help drive this transformation.
WHERE CAN IT LEAD?
This qualification is suitable for learners intending to pursue any career in which an understanding of technology is needed.
The course is good preparation for higher education courses in IT and other subjects. It will also boost employment prospects as you will have developed a wide range of skills including problem solving, communication and team work.
Mathematics A LEVEL
COURSE OUTLINE & ASSESSMENT
The course will enable students to develop logical and methodical thought, the ability to persevere with a task and to employ mathematics confidently in order to analyse and solve problems.
All students study Pure Mathematics, Mechanics and Statistics modules. Pure Mathematics consists of calculus, algebra, trigonometry, vectors and numerical methods. Mechanics, probability and statistics are applied mathematics. Both of these applications produce models of the real world and suggest solutions to real-life problems. In Mechanics we study forces, energy and velocity. In Statistics we study probability theory and statistical inference. The most able students are encouraged to study Further Mathematics in addition to Mathematics A Level.
Assessment: at the end of Year 13 all topics studied throughout the two year course will be examined.
Subject Leader: Mr J Newland
Exam board and course/syllabus No:
Pearson Edexcel Mathematics 9MA0
Independent study commitment:
Five hours per week
Additional course entry requirements:
GCSE Mathematics at grade 7 or above.
WHAT DOES IT COMBINE WELL WITH?
Any subject combines well with Mathematics A Level but particularly Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Computer Science, Business, Finance, PE, Geography.
If you are a strong mathematician you can’t go wrong with A Level Mathematics. It will complement any other subject and keep options open for pathways to university and employment.
WHY STUDY MATHEMATICS?
Mathematics is the most popular A Level and a high proportion of those studying it achieve an A grade. Studies have also shown that people with Mathematics A Level tend to be higher earners. Though this itself may or may not be a good enough reason to study mathematics, the skills it allows you to develop include problem solving, logic and analysing situations. Add in the improvements to your basic numeracy skills and that bit of creativity needed to solve mathematical problems and you’ve got yourself a set of skills which would make you more desirable for almost any job.
WHERE CAN IT LEAD?
Higher education: Mathematics A Level is necessary for most engineering and physical sciences. It is also useful for law and of course any mathematical, statistical or computer science course.
COURSE OUTLINE & ASSESSMENT
The BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Music Performance suits students who play an instrument or sing. It is ideal for guitarists, drummers, bassists, keyboard players and pop, rock or musical vocalists.
It offers a specialist qualification that covers the key knowledge and practical skills required for a career as a professional musician. It consists of three mandatory units and one optional unit.
You will complete four units of study outlined below:
Mandatory units
• Ensemble Music Performance • Professional Practice in the Music Industry • Practical Music Theory and Harmony
Optional units
• Composing Music • Music Performance Session Styles • Solo Performance • Improvising Music
DETAILS
Subject Leader: Miss J Ridley
Exam board and course/syllabus No:
Pearson Edexcel BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Music Performance
Independent study commitment:
Five hours per week
Additional course entry requirements:
GCSE Music at grade 4 or above with a good standard of instrumental or vocal ability demonstrated.
WHAT DOES IT COMBINE WELL WITH?
Most other subjects combine well with this course but especially Theatre Studies, Media Studies, IT, English Language or Literature, Sciences and Humanities.
WHY STUDY MUSIC?
You will have the opportunity to develop as a performer and learn about roles within the music industry. You will work both practically and academically in class along with carrying out your own research. You will have the opportunity to enhance and develop your musicianship skills as a solo performer and your communication skills while working as part of an ensemble. Regular performance opportunities will be available during this two year course.
WHERE CAN IT LEAD?
Studying Music BTEC can lead to further study of the subject at university or a music college, however it can also lead to other subjects in higher education. It is desirable for employment in the arts, teaching and other types of jobs which require the skills developed on this course.
COURSE OUTLINE & ASSESSMENT
The BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Performing Arts suits students who wish to act or perform. Equivalent to one A Level, it is ideal for anyone wishing to set foot on a stage in front of a live audience. It offers a specialist qualification that covers the key knowledge and practical skills required for a career as a professional actor.
There are opportunities for theatre visits/ trips/workshops with professional practitioners to inspire and give industry advice.
A great emphasis is on practical work therefore commitment and collaboration are paramount; all students are expected to be fully dedicated to the discipline of rehearsal and performance.
There is a combination of internal and external marking and moderation. There is no final written exam as students will be continually assessed in supervised practical and written specified sessions relating to the relevant unit.
You will complete four units of study outlined below these consist of three mandatory units and one optional unit.
Mandatory units
• Investigating a practitioner’s work • Developing skills and techniques for live performance • Group performance
Optional units
• Acting styles • Interpreting Classical Text for Performance
DETAILS
Subject Leader: Mr M King
Exam board and course/syllabus No:
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Performing Arts
Independent study commitment:
Five hours per week
Additional course entry requirements:
GCSE Drama is preferred, however, a keen interest and a strong commitment is acceptable
WHAT DOES IT COMBINE WELL WITH?
Art, English, History, R.E., Psychology, Creative Digital Media Production and Film Studies.
WHY STUDY PERFORMING ARTS?
Performing Arts enhances creativity, confidence and competence when delivering performance to any given audience. The community spirit of teamwork and collaboration forms a large part of the course of study. Students will understand how performing arts has and still is reflecting the needs and desires of our communities whilst contributing to education and literacy.
WHERE CAN IT LEAD?
BTEC in Performing Arts is a recognised subject for entrance to university or college. It is also valuable for careers in acting, design, directing, journalism, public relations, teaching.
Photography A LEVEL
COURSE OUTLINE & ASSESSMENT
Throughout the course students produce work in a number of photographic areas, such as portraiture, landscape, documentary, experimental imagery and moving image. They are introduced to a range of digital photographic and editing techniques and will undertake practical coursework projects involving recording observations and experiences, analysing sources, developing ideas, researching photographers/artists and the production of final images.
Component 1: Personal investigation.
A practical photographic investigation conducted through a series of linked projects supported by written material comprising four parts: • An introduction to the key skills • Investigation, to show clear development from initial intentions to the final outcomes with evidence of research and development of ideas • A shorter, more focused unit culminating in the Year 12 mock timed assessment. • An extended written personal study. Assessment: teacher assessed and externally moderated. 60% of A Level
Component 2: Externally set assignment.
The question paper consists of a choice of eight questions to be used as starting points. Students are required to select one of the questions from which to develop a practical photographic project supported by written material. There is a preparatory period plus 15 hours of supervised time.
DETAILS
Subject Leader: Mrs A Vamplew
Exam board and course/syllabus No:
AQA Art & Design: Photography 7206
Independent study commitment:
This course requires a continuous commitment to independent study.
Additional course entry requirements:
GCSE English at grade 5 or above. GCSE Art is preferred although not essential. Commitment and a visual interest is more important.
WHAT DOES IT COMBINE WELL WITH?
English, Information Technology, Art and Mathematics.
WHY STUDY PHOTOGRAPHY?
The Photography A Level course opens opportunities across the design industries. You will be able to pursue personal interests whilst developing your technical skills. In addition this course gives you the opportunity to develop your personal expression, imagination, sensitivity, conceptual thinking, powers of observation and analytical ability.
WHERE CAN IT LEAD?
Many A Level Photography students go on to art and design colleges or university. Previous students have made careers in photography, fashion, film making, photo journalism, fine art, travel photography and animation.
Physical Education A LEVEL
COURSE OUTLINE & ASSESSMENT
The Physical Education A Level course has been designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of the nature of physical education and sport.
Paper 1: Factors affecting participation in physical activity and sport
• Applied anatomy and physiology • Skill acquisition • Sport and society
Assessment: written exam of two hours. 35% of A Level.
Paper 2: Factors affecting optimal performance in physical activity and sport
• Exercise physiology and biomechanics • Sport psychology • Sport and society and technology in sport
Assessment: written exam of two hours. 35% of A Level.
Non-exam assessment
Practical performance in physical activity and sport.
Students are assessed as a performer or coach in the full sided version of one activity plus written and verbal analysis of performance.
Assessment: internal with external moderation. 30% of A Level.
DETAILS
Subject Leader: Mr J Cumber
Exam board and course/syllabus No:
AQA 7582
Independent study commitment:
Four hours per week plus additional study time
Additional course entry requirements:
GCSE PE at grade 6 or above with at least grade 5 at theory.
WHAT DOES IT COMBINE WELL WITH?
Biology, Psychology, Mathematics, Physics, History and English. PE cannot be studied alongside Sport BTEC.
WHY STUDY PHYSICAL EDUCATION?
The A Level in Physical Education is particularly suitable for students who wish to progress to higher education and study subject areas such as coach education, sport science, health and fitness and teaching. It is also suited to students who wish to work in the sports or health and fitness professions. A Level PE can also be valuable for those students interested in sport and wish to study the world of health and fitness and the impact of physical education on the world around them at an advanced level.
WHERE CAN IT LEAD?
Sports science, PE teacher, physiotherapist, professional sportsperson, sports coach, consultant, sports policy at local and national level, diet and fitness instructor, personal trainer.
Physics A LEVEL
COURSE OUTLINE & ASSESSMENT
The Physics A Level course has been designed as a concept-led approach. It begins with a study of the laws, theories and models of physics and finishes with an exploration of their practical applications.
Paper 1: Advanced Physics 1
Covers half the A Level topics and some AS content: further mechanics, electric and magnetic fields, nuclear and particle physics. Assessment: written examination of 1 hour 45 minutes. 30% of A Level.
Paper 2: Advanced Physics 2
Covers half the A Level topics and some AS content: thermodynamics, space, nuclear radiation, gravitational fields, oscillations. Assessment: written examination of 1 hour 45 minutes. 30% of A Level.
Paper 3: Advanced Physics 3
Covers all the AS and A Level topics. Assessment: written examination of 2 hours 30 minutes. 40% of A Level.
Assessment of practical skills
Students are assessed through a series of 16 core practical experiments, reported separately to the A Level grade as pass or fail. This is a teacher assessed component.
DETAILS
Subject Leader: Mr D Hall
Exam board and course/syllabus No:
Pearson Edexcel 9PH0
Independent study commitment:
Five hours per week
Additional course entry requirements:
GCSE Physics or the Trilogy Science Physics modules grade 7.
WHAT DOES IT COMBINE WELL WITH?
Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology and Computer Science.
WHY STUDY PHYSICS?
Physics tries to answer the really big questions. Physicists use the laws they uncover to develop new materials, machinery, and technology to improve our lives and help us explore the universe further, from computers to telescopes and spacecraft.
WHERE CAN IT LEAD?
Physics students become good problem solvers, can work in teams and develop research and analytical skills which can be applied to a variety of work places.
Physics is a highly regarded A Level by universities. It can lead to degree courses in physics, mathematics, engineering, natural sciences, astrophysics, climate science, computer science.
A Level Physics can lead to careers in engineering, astrophysics, biophysics, medicine, food science, forensic science, nuclear physics, theoretical physics, computer game design, cosmology and geophysics.
COURSE OUTLINE & ASSESSMENT
Equivalent in size to one A Level (carries the same UCAS points). Four units of which three are mandatory and two are external. External assessment (58%).
Unit 1 Visual Recording and Communication
120 guided learning hours.
Unit 2 Critical and Contextual Studies in Art and Design
90 guided learning hours.
Unit 3 The Creative Process
90 guided learning hours.
Unit 4 3D Design Craft Materials, Techniques and Processes
60 guided learning hours.
The qualification gives a coherent introduction to the study of Art and Design within a Product Design context. The qualification is designed to give learners a technical understanding of 3D design and crafts, where they develop knowledge in 3D materials, techniques and processes through vocational projects.
Unit 4 is an optional unit that complements the subject and gives breadth to their practice. Learners develop an understanding of the importance and influence of the work of artists and designers to develop and realise their creative intentions and as well as practical outcomes, they also produce a portfolio of their design work. The qualification is for post-16 learners intending to gain employment in the Design sector, after further study in higher education. It is intended to be studied over two years alongside additional BTEC or A Level qualifications. It leads ultimately to employment, in the creative industries.
DETAILS
Subject Leader: Mr R Inman
Exam board and course/syllabus No:
Pearson Edexcel BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate
Independent study commitment:
Five hours per week
Additional course entry requirements:
GCSE English at grade 4, GCSE in Art or Design and Technology Product Design or Textiles at grade 5 or above.
WHAT DOES IT COMBINE WELL WITH?
Art, Mathematics, Physics, Information Technology, Digital Media, Photography, Business Studies and Languages.
WHY STUDY PRODUCT DESIGN?
From the top 10 UK HE Design courses an average of 65% of graduates were in their chosen career within six months of graduating. Jobs include: product designer, interior and spatial designer, exhibition designer, clothing/textile technologist, graphic designer and many more.
WHERE CAN IT LEAD?
Courses leading from Product Design include: Product/Industrial Design, Art & Design, Animation/Coding/Games, Apprenticeships in CAD, Architecture/Interior Design, Fashion/Textiles, Film/TV, Graphic Design, Marketing, Media/Journalism.
Psychology A LEVEL
COURSE OUTLINE & ASSESSMENT
Psychology A Level encourages students to develop their knowledge and understanding of psychology and the variety of areas that this impacts upon. The A Level provides a broad introduction to the scope and nature of psychology as a science.
Psychology is assessed by three exams at the end of Year 13:
Paper 1 - Introductory topics in psychology
• Social influence • Memory • Attachment • Psychopathology
Paper 2 - Psychology in context
• Approaches in psychology • Biopsychology • Research methods
Paper 3 - Issues and options in psychology
• Issues and debates in psychology • Relationships • Stress • Forensics
All examinations are two hours long, each worth 33.3% of the A Level.
DETAILS
Subject Leader: Mrs A Morrissey
Exam board and course/syllabus No:
AQA 7128
Independent study commitment:
Five hours per week
Additional course entry requirements:
GCSE RE, English, Mathematics and Science (triple or double) all at grade 6 or above.
WHAT DOES IT COMBINE WELL WITH?
Biology, Physical Education, Religious Studies, English Language and Statistics. Psychology cannot be studied alongside Criminology.
WHY STUDY PSYCHOLOGY?
Psychology A Level allows students the opportunity to see the world through a new perspective and to see the real-life applications of psychology.
The study of psychology satisfies the curious mind and allows us to explore and question human behaviour, asking questions to continually raise our understanding.
WHERE CAN IT LEAD?
Higher education, particularly psychology, sociology, RE and law but is relevant for the majority of courses. Psychology can lead to careers in the following fields: psychologist, health and social care, marketing and PR, management and human resources, education and public sector work.
Religious Studies A LEVEL
COURSE OUTLINE & ASSESSMENT
The course provides the opportunity to study some of the fundamental questions which people have always asked: why are we here, how should we behave, what happens to us when we die, how do religions explain and explore their beliefs about God? Students are encouraged to adopt an enquiring critical and reflective approach to the study of Religious Studies and its different components.
The syllabus covers three areas of study:
Philosophy of Religion
• Philosophical issues and questions • The nature and influence of religious experience • The problems of evil and suffering • Philosophical language; works of scholars • Influences of developments in religious belief
Religion and Ethics
• Significant concepts in issues or debates in religion and ethics • A study of three ethical theories • Application of ethical theories to issues of importance • Ethical language • Deontology, virtue ethics and the works of scholars • Medical ethics: beginning and end of life issues
The New Testament
• Social, historical and religious context of the New Testament • Texts and interpretation of the person of Jesus • Interpreting the text and issues of relationship, purpose and authorship • Ways of interpreting the scripture • Texts and interpretation: the kingdom of God, conflict, the death and resurrection of Jesus • Scientific and historical-critical challenges, ethical living and the works of scholars. Assessment: Three two-hour examination papers.
DETAILS
Subject Leader: Miss Á Lyons
Exam board and course/syllabus No:
Pearson Edexcel
Independent study commitment:
Five hours per week
Additional course entry requirements:
GCSE RE at grade 6 or above.
WHAT DOES IT COMBINE WELL WITH?
A Level Religious Studies compliments those subjects in which analysis is a key feature, for example English, History, Psychology and the Sciences. This course tends to attract the more socially aware student and those who wish to consider the origins and developments of philosophical outlooks.
WHY STUDY RELIGIOUS STUDIES?
This course helps develop thinking and analytical skills, the ability to develop and structure an argument, textual analysis and it fosters independent thinking. It facilitates enquiry into, and develops insightful evaluations of ultimate questions about the purposes and commitments of human life, especially as expressed in philosophy, ethics and the study of the scripture.
The course encourages students to compare the significant ideas presented in works of scholars from selected fields. This will enable students to reflect on and develop their values, opinions and attitudes in the light of their studies.
WHERE CAN IT LEAD?
St Gregory’s students who have studied A Level Religious Studies have gone on to study degrees in a range of subjects including law, teaching, journalism, nursing, theology, business, social anthropology, English, psychology and more.
