The Gifted and Talented Programme at QMC 2015-2016

n i g n i t s e inv s l a u d i v i ind Queen Mary’s College Cliddesden Road, Basingstoke, Hampshire RG21 3HF Tel: 01256 417500 www.qmc.ac.uk

Fax: 01256 417501

Email: info@qmc.ac.uk

d e t n e l a t d n a The gifted

e m m a r prog

Queen Mary’s College has a longstanding tradition of supporting high achieving students through this crucial time of their education. Gifted and Talented (G and T) education is a key priority for us. Every year substantial numbers of our students progress on to top universities, including Russell Group and Oxford and Cambridge to study traditional academic courses including Law and Medical training courses.

When you apply to university you will have the security of knowing that you will have support and advice every step of the way. You will also have the reassurance that your application is backed by Queen Mary’s College, one of the most respected sixth form colleges in England.

While at College many of our high achievers play for national sports teams, win prestigious prizes and awards, are members of highly respected orchestras, or dance and act in national productions. We also have music, drama, dance and sports students who have been accepted to the most renowned specialist institutions in the UK and abroad.

Regardless of your area of talent, QMC is here to help you progress and develop; you will find the facilities, level of support and the opportunities available at the College outstanding and we look forward to working with you to help you reach your full potential.

Ali Foss Principal

Success at QMC and beyond

QMC provides challenging and stretching opportunities for students with higher entry profiles. Students intending to enter medical or veterinary schools and Oxbridge colleges are offered a tailored curriculum and the College undertakes careful and regular reviews of the offer to ensure that it continues to meet the needs of its students and enables them to achieve at high levels.

Ofsted

As a college we are very proud of our student achievements during and after their time here. We enjoy celebrating success and keep in touch with past students who are often very keen to return to QMC to share their stories and offer support, advice and work placement opportunities to current students. Our Alumni students speak enthusiastically about the way they were so well prepared for further study/employment at QMC. Our success in equipping students with both the skills and qualifications needed for success was reinforced by figures released by the Higher Education Statistics Agency. They show that a higher percentage of QMC students gained first class or upper class degrees than those from other colleges and sixth forms. A total of 85 per cent of ex-QMC graduates, who went on to study at the Russell Group of universities, achieved these higher level degrees, which is 10 percent higher than students from other sixth forms or colleges.

The Gifted and Talented Programme

At QMC we will help you to develop the skills and qualifications required to make you an attractive candidate to universities and employers. We will provide you with many opportunities to develop the confidence and maturity to interview well, and to make the most of the university place you achieve.

Degree Classification - Rusell Group (%) Percentage

First class honours

Upper second class honours

First class and second class honours

Queen Mary’s College

22.50%

62.50%

85.00%

Sixth Form College

19.94%

56.53%

76.47%

Independent

18.02%

57.95%

75.96%

State

20.78%

54.51%

75.30%

Source: Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) 2014

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high achievers

You will plan and carry out the work with the guidance of a supervisor, but will be developing independent learning skills which will be invaluable in Higher Education or employment. You will gain experience in research, project management, problem solving, analysis, evaluation, communication and will end the project by reflecting critically on what you have learnt.

If you are likely to achieve seven or more GCSEs at A*- B grades, including English and Maths, you should be looking to study up to five AS Levels in your first year. In addition you should think about enhancing your programme of study with elements that will enrich your studies and maximise your chances of entry to the top universities. Additional study options for high achievers include: • Extension activities in a favourite subject Name: Luke Holdcroft Attended QMC: 2005-2007

• The Extended Project Qualification • Additional AS Levels and other courses • Specialist preparation for Oxbridge

Having completed a Master’s Degree in Civil Engineering at the University of Exeter, and being awarded an engineering scholarship, I graduated from Exeter in the summer of 2011 with first class honours. Upon graduation I worked as a graduate Engineer at a multinational Engineering Consultancy before becoming a Warfare officer in the Royal Navy.

• Entry for national student awards

QMC has a fantastic team of teachers in a wide variety of subjects as well as dedicated people working quietly behind the scenes who are always willing to help. With their guidance, tuition and enthusiasm I was fortunate to leave the sixth form college with top grades, putting me in a fantastic position when applying to my preferred universities.

The wide range of sporting opportunities was also enticing at QMC and the development of facilities on campus was something that the college continued to invest in throughout the time that I was at QMC and since.

• Discussion groups and specialist speakers • Work experience •S pecialist support for students talented in sport, art and the performing arts

EXTENSION ACTIVITIES Extension activities in a favourite subject Each department has a programme of additional accredited extension courses and activities designed to take your study to a higher level, and demonstrate your preparedness for a top university. For further information about extension activities in a specific subject please enquire directly to the relevant department.

Studying: English Literature, French and Psychology Studying what you’re really enthused about here is a brilliant opportunity to cultivate and broaden your understanding and ability across all your subjects. How much potential you have, and how to use that potential constructively, is one of the most important things you’ll realise at QMC : extra reading, enrichment courses, sports clubs, subject support sessions and the library are all for students to make the most of and enjoy.

I’ve made new friends, become much more confident, and above all, the excellent courses have helped me realise many new interests, as well as focusing me on Psychology. I am now hoping to go on to study Psychology at King’s College, London upon completing my A Levels.

the extended project (epq) An EPQ is a chance for you to carry out an independent project of your own choice, about a subject or topic you are interested in.

This provides a unique opportunity to explore something that you are passionate about and it could take many forms. For example, previous students have done extended essays, a piece of creative work, put on an event, or designed a computer programme.

The Gifted and Talented Programme

Studied: Maths, Physics and Sport

Name: Jenny Watson

An EPQ is worth half a full A Level, with up to 70 UCAS points for an A*, and could be part of a university offer. More importantly, if interviewed by one of the top selecting universities, you will have the advantage of being ‘an expert’ in your project area, and you will be able to talk about it with confidence. Working on an EPQ can also broaden and deepen your understanding of your A Level subjects, helping indirectly to improve your performance here too.

Name: Amena Mezni Now Studying: Biomedical Science at Surrey University Doing an EPQ not only enables you to discover more about a particular interest you have, but it also improves certain skills such as writing, referencing and keeping to deadlines. They are also great to talk about in personal statements and interviews. You get to choose what topic to base your EPQ on and because I have a particular interest in neuroscience I chose to research the effectiveness of antidepressants.

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Other Extension Activities

specialist talks, personal statement preparation and work experience. Perspectives on Science has proven particularly beneficial for those students applying for competitive science courses at university, such as Medicine or Veterinary Science.

• Further reading with specialist materials • Reading groups • Independent study materials and support • Specialist coaching programmes • I nternet access to university academic networks

ADDITIONAL AS LEVELS AND OTHER COURSES

Critical Thinking AS This course will raise the quality of your reasoning and strength of argument. It will help you to analyse other people’s thinking and respond with clear counter arguments. Critical Thinking improves analytical and evaluative skills and is therefore useful preparation for the EPQ and study at university, and is invaluable for the LNAT (Law National Admissions Test) and TSA (Thinking Skills Assessment).

Further Maths AS By taking Further Maths you can study additional topics such as complex numbers, matrices and differential equations, and will also be able to specialise in statistics or mechanics.

This course is recommended if you intend to study Mathematics, or a course that makes substantial use of Mathematics, in Higher Education.

Name: Andrew Gurr Attended QMC: 2013-2015 Studied: Chemistry, Maths, Physics, English and Mock Trial Enrichment

success

Name: David May-Miller Attended QMC: 2013-2015 Studied: Maths, Further Maths, Computing and Physics

Destination: C lare College, Cambridge University, studying Law

Destination: University of Warwick, studying Discrete Mathematics

At QMC you are treated and respected as an independent learner, studying the subjects that you enjoy in a friendlier and more relaxed atmosphere. You also have greater freedom to direct your own learning which is very useful when you head off to university. When I started College I had a very clear vision of what I wanted to achieve and I am very grateful that I received everything needed to get me there, whilst thoroughly enjoying it at the same time. My future plan is to eventually be a barrister but I am open minded to see which areas of law I enjoy and what opportunities I may be presented with after university.

What made my time at QMC so good were the teachers who were always so helpful and supportive.

I loved the camaraderie you build with peers and teachers, all based on a mutual interest in the subject you’re studying and one teacher even gave up their free periods for my class so that we could learn an extra module!

perspectives on science (epq) This course explores the history, philosophy and ethics of science, and looks critically at the nature of science and its contribution to current world views. Taking this weekly course will develop your research, thinking and presentation skills in the exploration of fundamental questions such as the origins of the universe or the beginning and ending of life. The course also includes mentoring,

After leaving QMC, Stephen Turrell won the Oxford University prize of £500 for the best performance in first year practical coursework. His name is now added to the board of past winners within the Department of Materials Teaching Laboratory, where he is studying for his Materials Science Degree.

I studied all three of the core science subjects at QMC. There were frequent opportunities to develop our practical skills, and this was often enhanced by the freedom to design our own experiments, making use of the state of the art facilities.

The special support sessions and expert help and experience I had access to were indispensable in my preparation for applying and studying at university.

Being part of the Oxbridge group helped walk me through the UCAS application process and made sure my application was as strong as possible, for every university I applied to. My Personal Tutor was also very helpful, taking a genuine interest and making sure I was doing well in everything both in and outside of College.

The Gifted and Talented Programme

These courses will broaden your study and increase your skills, enhancing your academic profile for the top selecting universities. Courses available include:

celebrating

At QMC I got to study the four subjects that I was interested in, learned a lot and grew a lot as a person. I honestly think things couldn’t have gone better for me anywhere else.

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entry for national student awards

convincing arguments, and helps to build your confidence in public speaking. A wide range of topics are discussed and you will be able to take part in competitions such as the National Debating Matters Competition, and the Hampshire Post-16 Great Debate.

Gifted and Talented students will be able to take part in nationally recognised competitions for which they will receive support and specialist guidance. Many of our students have won awards and found the experience of competing to be of great personal benefit. It adds strength to university applications and gives students confidence at interview.

Opportunities include

Economics and Business Conferences Prominent local and national business people visit QMC to discuss relevant current affairs with students, and as a team you can take part in local and national conferences.

Name: Yosi Kwaw

• Rotary Languages Prize

Attended QMC: 2013-2015

• Maths Olympiads •C ounty, Regional and UK Sports competitions • Young Scientist of the Year • Institute of Physics Awards • ‘Youth Speaks’ Debating Competition • Jane Austen Prize for Literature

Examples of exceptional attainment are numerous and include students winning 37 medals in the United Kingdom Mathematics Challenge.

Ofsted

Studied: Maths, Physics and Chemistry Destination: University of Warwick, studying Chemistry I would definitely recommend QMC because it acted as a great springboard in terms of my academic career. Not only in helping me to achieve decent A-level grades but also by giving me the opportunity to take part in events, speak publicly and generally become a more rounded individual. In my lessons teachers would do their upmost to actively engage all students, always tailoring the teaching to the class and adding in extra review sessions or drop in sessions if needed. There was ample opportunity to get any questions or worries attended to and the overall learning environment was great!

discussion groups and specialist speakers Learning to debate and take part in informed analytical discussion is crucial to developing critical and interview skills. In addition to the discussion-based courses outlined above, you could join:

The Debating Society This lunchtime course gives you opportunities to improve skills in constructing and presenting

Law and Legal Issues This group is open to all students with an interest in Law, whether or not you are taking a Law course. You will look at a variety of Law related activities and will take part in the National Bar Mock Trials competition and several other Law related events.

Name: Nicholas Woolmer Attended QMC: 2013-2015

Reading Groups

Studied: Physics, Maths, Further Maths and an EPQ in Physics

There are a series of extra-curricular reading groups that allow students to broaden their experience and knowledge of particular subjects.

Destination: U niversity of Surrey, studying Physics with Quantum Technologies

Lecture visits from local and partner universities

I chose QMC because of the great location, atmosphere and enthusiasm of the staff. The academic record, especially value-added, is one of the best in the area and the facilities are exceptional. Whilst at College I received a lot of UCAS advice which included reading material, personal statements, personal finance advice and university talks with visiting speakers. I also benefitted from additional subject specific support sessions, outside of timetabled lessons. Studying an EPQ helped me to plan and organise my work and time over a long project, giving me the opportunity to learn how to properly source and reference my work. This is proving to be very helpful when writing theses/dissertations, now that I am at university.

Amongst others, there is a programme of science lectures given by staff from the Universities of Portsmouth, Reading, Southampton and Surrey. The aim is to provide you with reliable information on the wide range of careers that can be pursued beyond A levels. The Careers Department also has a wealth of information and contacts to support you with your Higher Education choices.

WORK EXPERIENCE The College has established contacts with many of the major employers and companies in the region to enable you to gain work experience. This is of particular importance to students considering careers in medicine, veterinary science, physiotherapy, legal work, and teaching.

The Modern Foreign Languages Department

The Gifted and Talented Programme

• Bar National Mock Trial

• Chemistry and Physics Olympiads

have well developed schemes where students can undertake work experience in Spain, France, Germany and Italy.

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SPECIALIST SUPPORT FOR STUDENTS TALENTED IN SPORT, ART AND THE PERFORMING ARTS

Sports At QMC we have fantastic sporting and training facilities, with coaches and teachers who can offer advice and guidance. We have particular expertise in a number of sports such as football, through our Football Academy, and rugby, where the College has attained specialist status as a result of its excellent coaching facilities. Whatever your particular sporting specialism we can offer you a specific programme of support, involving access to expert advice. You will also have access to free use of the College’s sports and training facilities. We have our very own Sports Centre complete with fitness suite, weights room, swimming pool, sports hall, gymnasium, 3G pitch, astroturf and grass pitches.

Name: Jess Muller Attended QMC: 2013-2015 Studying: Biology, Chemistry, Sport and an EPQ in Biology and Sport I am a member of the Karate England Squad and have won numerous titles including: British, Welsh and European Champion, as well as being ranked World Number two for my age and weight category.

When I first started College it was made clear to me that I would be fully supported if I was away competing for any length of time. Extensions for deadlines and the revision and help sessions that teachers provide during their own lunchtimes and free periods is invaluable, and I have found that my emails are always replied to quickly - even the ones sent at weekends! This level of support, along with strict time management on my part, means that I can balance training at least five times per week, meet deadlines and achieve good grades. After QMC I am planning to study Dietetics and Human Nutrition at university.

art, design and media

The Gifted and Talented Programme

There are many extremely talented students at QMC whom we support in getting where they want to go, be it playing football for England, acting with the National Youth Theatre, or studying Art at Central St Martin’s College of Art & Design. If your area of talent lies within sports, art, music or the performing arts, we are able to assist you in achieving your ambitions and will help you to balance the demands of training/practice/ competition and performance schedules against academic programmes.

The department offers students unique opportunities to exhibit their work in local and national galleries. This year the best work was showcased in the Basingstoke Festival at Proteus Creation Space attracting a wide and diverse audience. Local companies such as De La Rue and Hctcreative have designers who have been students at QMC and this fosters some superior industrial links through placements, employment opportunities, the sponsorship of awards and consultative projects. Purpose built studios and excellent facilities are available in all specialisms and students receive a great deal of support in developing their portfolios for art school and university applications.

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performing arts

Name: Anne Danao Attended QMC: 2013-2015 Destination: K ingston University sudying Graphic Design My experience at QMC was very memorable, fun and challenging. I received a lot of help and expert advice from my teachers who encouraged me to develop my artistic potential and skills. I really enjoyed the studio environment in the Art department - being able to interact with other art students made my learning experience even more valuable because I met students from other practices (Photography, Textiles and Graphic Design) and simultaneously learnt and was inspired by them. The facilities were always open for us to use as long as we took responsibility for looking after them. I feel incredibly lucky that, with the intensive support from the Art Department, I produced a portfolio which impressed Kingston University enough to gain a place straight from College, without having to complete a Foundation Degree first. I am really enjoying my time here and hope to eventually set up my own creative based company in the future.

In order to support your development as a musician, we have a scholarship for AS level musicians and workshops throughout the academic year where guest teachers and professional musicians visit QMC to deliver a wide range of practical sessions.

This is in addition to a series of academic seminars delivered by our specialist staff and instrumental tuition.

Many of our music students have successfully gained places at conservatoires and universities such as Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance, ACM (The Academy of Contemporary Music), BIMM (Brighton Institute of Modern Music), Kneller Hall (Royal Military School of Music), The Royal Academy and The Royal College of Music in London, Institute of Contemporary Music Performance in London, University of Surrey (Tonmeister), Liverpool Institute for the Performing Arts (LIPA), SAE Institute and Leeds College of Music.

Having Central Studio (a professional theatre) onsite, as well as the newly opened music building, is hugely motivating for our performing arts and music students.

With state of the art practice rooms, recording studio and performance spaces students have the opportunity to perform in a professional venue and attend workshops by established theatre companies and professionals such as Emma Thompson.

The specialist music facilities meet the needs of the music industry and enable students to learn the correct use of technical equipment, specific to their chosen career.

The Gifted and Talented Programme

Studied: Graphics, Fine Art and History

Music flourishes at QMC. We have a variety of ensembles including the QMC Band, Choral Society and Rock Choir who perform in concerts at College and within the local community. There are also smaller ensembles, such as String Quartet, Chamber Music with Piano, Percussion Ensemble, Jazz Ensemble, Barber Shop, Composers’ Forum, Brass Quartet and The Acoustic Collective. Some of these ensembles have performed at community events such as The Mayor’s Concert, Choir of the Year and in Festival Place.

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Name: Isabelle Kersley

Studying: Music, English and Geography and an EPQ in Music

Attended QMC: 2013-2015

My time so far at QMC has been highly inspirational; I am surrounded by so many like-minded musicians and the excellent teachers have challenged me to achieve highly and have fun at the same time.

They go above and beyond when providing personal support in our studies and advice for the future including putting on very helpful revision sessions during half term and inset weeks. With support from the Oxbridge group I was given the extra boost I needed to apply to top flight universities and we’ve been on great trips and had many performance opportunities, all providing a great insight into a career in Music.

I love being in an environment with musicians who challenge me in my own musicianship, and the facilities are incredible. If you are thinking about coming to QMC ask yourself: why bother with a long journey elsewhere when there is so much personal support on offer here?

The Gifted and Talented Programme

Name: Bethany Lee

Studied: Drama, English, Psychology and an EPQ in Playwriting My time here has been really eyeopening in terms of discovering my passions and wanting to explore them further and I have really developed as a person. There is a real support system here which is what I like most about QMC. The amount of independence you get is worlds away from secondary school, but this is also nicely balanced with the help you receive from the staff, who truly want to see you succeed.

Drama is my favourite and strongest subject. The lessons are really enjoyable and have truly inspired me and improved my confidence and technical skills massively. The facilities available to performing arts students are fantastic.

Students can use Central Studio for plays and more intimate performances, whilst QMC Hall is perfect for bigger productions like musicals and concerts.

After QMC I plan to go to university (Warwick or Exeter) to study a combined degree in English and Drama, followed by a postgraduate acting course at a drama school to continue pursuing my ambition to be an actress, playwright or novelist.

Students are supported to meet their full potential at QMC, whatever their level of study.

Ofsted

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