2022 Sixth Form Prospectus

T: 0191 237 1505 E: reception@svf.org.uk W: www.svf.org.uk Astley Community High School, Elsdon Avenue, Seaton Delaval, Northumberland NE25 0BP @seatonvalleyfed

@astleyhigh

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ASTLEY COMMUNITY HIGH SCHOOL

SIXTH FORM PROSPECTUS 2022

MESSAGE FROM EXECUTIVE HEADTEACHER JOHN BARNES Dear Prospective Student Our Sixth Form is a very dynamic and vibrant place. In the two years that you are with us, you will not only make great progress academically in your chosen subjects, but you will also have opportunities to participate in a range of activities outside the classroom that will develop both your thinking and a broad range of life and leadership skills. When you leave our Sixth Form, our aim is that you will be fully prepared for the next step in your life.

I am sure that you will be looking for an institution which has firmly established structures for supporting students in all aspects of their studies. We guide students through the challenging transition from Key Stage 4 to Key Stage 5, by helping students develop independent study skills and therefore gain the self-confidence and personal discipline necessary to take full control of their learning. This should help them to achieve success in their courses and prepare them for university or continuous professional development in the workplace.

We are proud of the fact our Sixth Form does all of these. For those students who have been with us throughout Key Stage 4, there is the additional advantage that you know the school and the school knows you and understands how to meet your needs as a learner.

have ever experienced in your school life.

In return, we will expect far more from you in terms of maturity and self reliance.

Our outstanding Sixth Form team will do all they can to ensure that your time in our Sixth Form is a successful experience and we hope that you will help us to build upon the success that Ofsted has recognised.

Sixth Form study is a very different experience from the schooling you will have received so far. You will study a smaller number of subjects, and be given more freedom and responsibility than you

I look forward to seeing you all in September 2022 as our new Year 12.

The jump from GCSE to Level 3 study can be quite a challenge but please be assured that in our Sixth Form we shall not leave you alone to flounder. As part of a very supportive environment you will never be just a number, an anonymous individual, but will find lots of personal encouragement and help. I wish you all the best as you embark upon this new and enriching path to success.

Yours sincerely John Barnes

CONTENTS Message From Assistant Headteacher 01 What Parents/Carers Can Expect 02 Financial Support 03 Wider Sixth Form Experience 04 Sixth Form Centre 05 Senior Students 06 Choosing Your Pathway 07 A Level Art and Design 09 Biology 10 11 Chemistry English Literature 12 French 13 Geography 14

History Law Maths Performance Physics Psychology

15 16 17 18 19 20

BTEC Level 3 21 ICT with Applied Science 24 Business

22 Web Design Health and 25 23 Physical Activity Social Care and Sports Coaching Travel and Tourism 26

Learners in the sixth form thrive.

They make good progress in lessons and are very well prepared for the next stage of their education.

OfSTED 2016

Level 2 Courses GCSE Resit English/Maths

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It is a national requirement that students who do not achieve at least a grade 4 in English and/or Maths GCSE in Year 11, must continue to study the subject(s) whilst in Sixth Form.

MESSAGE FROM ASSISTANT HEADTEACHER ADAM IRONSIDE Dear Student Astley Community High School provides excellent opportunities for students wishing to continue their education. We are proud that students in our care achieve academic success and are therefore able to continue into university, apprenticeships, and the world of work. It is because of this provision that every year we attract students to our Sixth Form from many other local schools.

Our Sixth Form has excellent facilities including independent study spaces in the main school building and a dedicated Sixth Form Centre for Year 12 and 13 students to eat, relax and study.

Once you have made your choices, teachers will always be on hand to support you with any help that you need, and this is something that current students really appreciate about Astley.

For many students their decision to remain at Astley is very straight forward. One of the benefits of a smaller school like Astley is that your teachers know you very well and they know how you learn and how to support you to succeed. Students currently in our Sixth Form have chosen to move forward with their A Level subjects with the support of these teachers, for that very reason.

These opportunities include work experience, university visits and preparation, the Duke of Edinburgh Award, educational and cultural visits, voluntary work and the chance to visit Milkhope, our field study centre in the Cheviots. We also encourage all students to develop their leadership skills by supporting younger students in the school, including those at Whytrig Middle School.

You can choose to study a more academic A Level route, or a more vocational BTEC pathway. Some students choose a combination of the two. We are confident that you will leave Astley equipped with the knowledge and skills to pursue your dreams.

If you have any questions you would like answered about the Sixth Form please contact either myself, Miss Tyler, Student Progress Leader for the Sixth Form, or Mr Day, Sixth Form Student Support Officer.

Yours sincerely Adam Ironside

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WHAT PARENTS/CARERS CAN EXPECT FROM ASTLEY COMMUNITY HIGH SCHOOL SIXTH FORM • Excellent choice of academic and vocational courses, delivered by teachers who know your child and how he/she learns.

• Excellent outcomes in both vocational and academic subjects.

• Strong pastoral support to guide students through the transition to A Levels/BTEC and throughout their education at Astley Community High School.

• Class sizes which allow personalised attention.

• High standards and expectations of academic performance, attendance, enthusiasm and behaviour.

• Quiet and supervised study areas in school to support your child to make the transition from GCSE to A Level.

• Academic mentoring and tracking to guide students.

• A programme for our more able students to work with more able students in other schools.

• Outstanding ICT facilities to stimulate every aspect of learning.

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• Excellent support from our partners including all of the local universities and a programme of visits.

• A strong career, work shadowing and higher education programme, including a careers interview programme for every student.

• Regular careers breakfast sessions where students can meet up with adults working in their chosen field.

• Enrichment programme including the Duke of Edinburgh Award to support wider learning and skill acquisition.

• A residential visit in tutor groups to our field study centre, Milkhope.

• A work experience placement at the end of Year 12.

• Exceptional support in making applications to university, apprenticeship providers or employers.

• An extra curricular programme of sporting opportunities such as the Rugby Academy led by Mr Carbutt.

• Our Sixth Form Centre offers a modern space exclusive to Year 12 and Year 13 students to eat, relax and study.

FINANCIAL SUPPORT We appreciate that some students find it challenging to meet the costs of continuing to study. Financial support can help fund the costs of travel, course materials, trips and other essentials.

There are two main routes for financial help for 16-19 year olds with a potential total value of up to £1,200 per year: • A mandatory bursary for students that do not have parental support or receive benefits in their own right; • A discretionary bursary for students that meet criteria set by the school, such as being eligible for free school meals.

Students who travel by bus from an area that is out of our catchment, including the Blyth area, will qualify for a significant contribution towards their bus pass.

Qualifying students complete a short application form for a bursary at the start of the academic year.

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WIDER SIXTH FORM EXPERIENCE In addition to your academic studies in our Sixth Form, we also provide a range of enrichment activities that enable you to play a full role in the life of the school, and the wider community. The skills that you will gain from these experiences will complement your academic qualifications and provide an excellent basis for a potential university or apprenticeship application.

Duke of Edinburgh Award We are a Licensed Centre for the Duke of Edinburgh Award and have the exciting opportunity to offer the Silver Award to Sixth Form students. You will enjoy loads of new experiences, discover talents you never thought you had, challenge yourself and work hard as part of a team.

There are also many other benefits.

• Achieving a D of E Award will give you skills, confidence and a view on life that everyone is looking for, from employers to colleges and universities.

• Being recognised for doing things you want to do and may even be doing already.

• Making a difference to other people’s lives and your community, being fitter and healthier, making new friends and having memories to last you a lifetime.

The D of E Award comprises four areas which will vary in length depending on whether you are aiming for the Bronze or Silver Award.

• Volunteering - helping others in some way.

• Physical - improving personal fitness.

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• Skills - learning or developing a personal skill.

• Expedition - a remotely supervised expedition, where you will carry all your personal kit and camp overnight (one night for Bronze, two nights for Silver).

Milkhope Centre Located near Alwinton in the foot hills of the Cheviots, the Milkhope Centre is leased by Astley Community High School for use by the school and its partner organisations.

The farmhouse has been part of the fabric of school life for over 25 years and is one of the most memorable student experiences providing a unique opportunity to develop teamwork and leadership skills in the heart of the Kidland Forest.

Sports Facilities In addition to our gym, sports hall, tennis courts and football/rugby pitches, students enjoy the benefits of a fitness room and a 20 metre fully heated swimming pool. Our fully qualified coaches for football, rugby league, swimming and lifesaving continue to develop our offer including competitive sport and the ever-popular Football and Rugby Academies.

National Pool Lifeguard Qualification We offer the NPLQ which is recognised world-wide, opening up great opportunities in the form of employment and life skills.

Lifeguarding is an excellent starting point for those interested in a career in the leisure industry. Once qualified, candidates can also apply for a position as a casual lifeguard at Astley Community High School.

SIXTH FORM CENTRE EAT, RELAX, STUDY Our Sixth Form has an academic ethos, with our main priority being that students excel in their studies.

However, life in our Sixth Form is very different to life in the lower school. Students are given new freedoms and privileges. For example, students can sign out of school during ‘free’ periods, or they can spend time working or socialising in the refurbished Sixth Form Centre.

The Sixth Form Centre offers a modern space exclusive to Year 12 and Year 13 students to eat, relax and study.

Eat Café 6 offers an exclusive service for Sixth Form students to eat in the Sixth Form Centre.

Study We provide two attractive and well-resourced study spaces in the main school building for students to use when they are timetabled for independent study. As an alternative to the library during free periods, the centre has additional study space for students to use with free Wi-fi and electric sockets for laptops and mobile devices.

Relax Students can relax in the sofa area and use The Book Exchange or re-focus their minds with a game of pool.

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SENIOR STUDENTS Our Senior Students play a vital role in the life of our Sixth Form and the school in general. They work closely with staff and students in the lower school to help improve the school. They are role models and ambassadors for our school, and their positions carry a high level of prestige.

Students apply for the positions of Senior Students whilst in Year 12, and go through a rigorous interview and selection process. Our most recently appointed senior students are: Alyx Charlton, Kelsey-Ann Scott, Owen Turnbull, Amie Baxter, Jahin Reza, James Anderson. Over the course of the year they will support the school by speaking at our Open Evenings, interviewing staff who apply for teaching positions in our school and supporting students throughout the school both personally and in their academic studies.

Image from left to right: Alyx Charlton, Kelsey-Ann Scott, Owen Turnbull, Amie Baxter, Jahin Reza, James Anderson.

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CHOOSING YOUR PATHWAY A Level Pathway There are a number of different ways in which you can choose to study at Astley Sixth Form. Some students pick a purely academic pathway and choose to study only A Levels. Most students in Year 12 will study four A Levels, and then focus on three in Year 13. A Levels tend to be assessed through exams at the end of Year 12 and at the end of Year 13.

Vocational Level 3 Pathway Other students are keen to take a more vocational route and therefore study Level 3 BTEC or Cambridge Technical Qualifications. These are equivalent to A Levels but tend to be assessed through both coursework and examination. These courses all run for two years. Some students enjoy studying a mix of both vocational level 3 courses and A Levels.

GCSE English and Maths Resits It is a national requirement that all students must re-sit their English and/or Maths GCSE if they do not achieve at least a grade 4 in Year 11.

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ART AND DESIGN SINGLE OR DOUBLE A LEVEL OVERVIEW Single Award A Level Art and Design Art, Craft and Design This course allows students who would like to take one Art option the chance to work across two or more media areas, such as Textiles and Fine Art, or Graphics and 3D Design.

The work builds on the subjects studied at GCSE. At this stage there is more time and opportunity to explore a greater variety of artistic media and students are encouraged to develop their own ideas and style of working.

There is a written element to the course, beginning with research assignments and homework which will help you to relate your own art work to that of other artists, and culminating in a personal study of an artist or an aspect of Art at A Level.

There is a strong emphasis on developing your own ideas.

Specific Art Options 3D Design, Textiles, Fashion, Graphic Design, Fine Art and Photography.

Students interested in following a specialist course in one of the above areas will be able to select the specific units for their chosen specialism and all final pieces should reflect this choice. The decision to follow a specialist course must be made during the options process for examination entries.

Double Award A Level Art and Design Students who are interested in studying more than one A Level in Art and Design can do this by choosing two specific art options. One A Level will be undertaken in Year 12 and the second A Level will be undertaken in Year 13. Students will be timetabled into both Year 12 and Year 13 classes in order to receive an appropriate amount of tuition.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS 5 GCSEs at grade 9-4, including Art or 3D Design, although students who have not studied Art or 3D Design at GCSE can still gain a place on the course via portfolio submission.

STUDY UNITS For each A Level you are studying you will need to complete each unit below.

Unit 1: Personal Investigation Candidates develop work in response to an idea, issue, concept or theme of their choosing. Candidates are required to develop a personal investigation based on an idea, issue, concept or theme supported by 1000 – 3000 words.

Unit 2: Externally-Set Assignment Eight exciting starting points are given by the examboard. Candidates choose one and produce a body of work based upon this theme.

Candidates must complete 15 hours of unaided, supervised time at the end of this project, the first 5 hours will be consecutive.

ASSESSMENTS Coursework based assessment.

PROGRESSION AND CAREERS Higher education: Foundation course or degree course in art and design.

Careers: Directly relevant career choices include Graphic Design, Product Design, Fashion, Photography, Marketing and Advertising. However, A Level Art encourages an aesthetic sensibility which enhances life on a personal level and is also useful for careers in Teaching, Nursing, Occupational Therapy or any job where a creative approach is required.

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BIOLOGY A LEVEL OVERVIEW The course builds on the biological concepts and principles studied at GCSE. The curriculum develops your practical and analytical skills as well as the ability to apply biological principles to complex situations. It also promotes an awareness of social, environmental and economic issues relating to topics such as genetic engineering.

STUDY UNITS AS Level Four units of study which encompass the following topics: practical skills; cell structure; biological molecules; cell division; cellular organisation; exchange surfaces; transport in animals and plants; microbes and immunity; classification; evolution and biodiversity.

A Level

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS 5 GCSEs at grade 9-4, including English, Maths and Science to grade 6 or Combined Science to 6-6.

Will comprise the four units of study which form the AS plus two additional units.

The two additional units will include the following topics: homeostasis; excretion; plant and animal responses; photosynthesis; respiration; genetics; cloning; genetic engineering and ecosystems.

Students usually go on educational visits to enrich their biological knowledge. Such visits have included: the electron microscopy suite at the Medical School; an ecological survey at Whitley Bay; genetic engineering at the Centre for Life; Edinburgh Zoo; and a residential field trip.

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ASSESSMENTS Exam based assessment.

PROGRESSION AND CAREERS Higher education: Biomedical Sciences, Forensic Science, Nursing, Midwifery, Sports Science, Medicine, Veterinary Medicine, Marine Biology.

Careers: Doctor, Nurse, Midwife, Research Scientist, Forensic Scientist, Drug Analyst, Ecologist in institutions such as hospitals, universities, the government and research organisations.

CHEMISTRY A LEVEL OVERVIEW This programme of study will give you an exciting insight into the contemporary world of chemistry focusing on the structure and properties of matter, including the energy changes that accompany chemical reactions.

You will learn about Chemistry in a range of different contexts and the impact it has on industry and many aspects of everyday life. You will learn to investigate and solve problems, discovering the role that chemists play in our everyday lives developing new technologies and material for uses in medicines, mobile devices, agriculture and new materials.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS 5 GCSEs at grade 9-4, including Maths and Chemistry to grade 6 or Combined Science to grade 6-6.

STUDY UNITS AS Level Unit 1: Development of Practical Skills This underpins the whole of the A Level specification and covers the practical skills that students develop throughout both AS and the full A Level course.

Unit 2: Fundamentals in Chemistry Unit 3: Periodic Table and Energy Unit 4: Core Organic Chemistry A Level Will comprise the four units of study which form the AS plus two additional units: Unit 5: Physical Chemistry and Transition Elements Unit 6: Organic Chemistry and Analysis

ASSESSMENTS Exam based assessment. For A Level only there is also a Practical Skills Assessment which is separate to the main grade.

PROGRESSION AND CAREERS Higher education: Healthcare such as Medicine, Pharmacy and Dentistry as well as the Biological Sciences, Physics, Mathematics, Pharmacology Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry.

Careers: Wide range of careers in the Chemical, Manufacturing and Pharmaceutical industries and in areas such as Forensics, Environmental Protection and Healthcare. The problem solving skills developed are also useful for many other areas, such as Accountancy and Law.

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ENGLISH LITERATURE A LEVEL OVERVIEW The focus is on the genres of tragedy and crime. Within these genres you will study a Shakespeare play, novels, drama texts and a selection of poetry.

In your second year of study you will complete an independent study and study theories of Literature. You will also be expected to be able to link texts at A Level rather than study them separately. The genre chosen in Year 12 continues through to Year 13. Two pieces of coursework are also completed in Year 13.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS 5 GCSEs at grade 9-5, including a grade 6 in English Language and/or Literature.

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STUDY UNITS

ASSESSMENTS

A Level

A Level

Paper 1: Literary genres: aspects of tragedy Study of three texts: one Shakespeare text; a second drama text and one further text, of which one must be written pre-1900.

Paper 2: Texts and genres : elements of crime writing Study of three texts: one post-2000 prose text; one poetry and one further text, one of which must be written pre-1900.

Examination will include an unseen passage.

Exam based assessment and coursework.

Theory and independence (coursework) Study of two full texts: one poetry and one prose text, informed by study of the Critical Anthology.

Careers: Study of English Literature develops skills that support a wide range of careers including Teaching, Journalism and Law.

Two essays of 1250–1500 words, each responding to a different text and linking to a different aspect of the Critical Anthology.

PROGRESSION AND CAREERS Higher education: This A Level is an excellent basis for further study in the area of English. Specific degrees in subjects such as Comparative Literature are available.

FRENCH A LEVEL OVERVIEW A Level French introduces us to modern France. It explores technological and social change, looks at diversity, current trends and the benefits or problems they may bring.

It studies the highlights of francophone artistic culture, including music, cinema and literature, and addresses young people’s political engagement and current issues in the French-speaking world.

It will also explore the influence of the past on present-day French speaking communities.

You will study a contemporary book and a film and have the opportunity to carry out independent research on a project of your choice.

STUDY UNITS A Level Social issues and trends Political and artistic culture

PROGRESSION AND CAREERS French is highly valued by universities; it is one of the facilitating subjects. French is an asset to any future career and options are wide and varied including Translation, Teaching and Journalism.

Grammar Literary texts and films Individual research project

ASSESSMENTS Paper 1: Listening, reading and writing (2 ½ hour exam).

Paper 2: Writing (2 hours).

Paper 3: Speaking (approximately 20 minutes).

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS GCSE French grade 6 is essential.

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GEOGRAPHY A LEVEL OVERVIEW A Level Geography covers both the physical and human environments and the complex interaction of processes that shape our world. It will also show the applied side of the subject - how human intervention affects the environment and how people adapt and mitigate the effects of processes on their environment. This is complex and dynamic and varies from place to place depending on people’s resources, technology and culture. There is plenty of room for discussion and extended research which will help you become an independent thinker and learner.

Fieldwork will be an essential part of your A Level course.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS 5 GCSEs at grade 9-4, including English and Maths. GCSE Geography grade 6 is essential.

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STUDY UNITS

ASSESSMENTS

A Level

A Level

Component 1: Physical geography • Water and carbon cycles.

• Coastal systems and landscapes.

• Hazards.

Component 2: Human geography • Global systems and global governance.

• Changing places.

• Contemporary urban environments.

Component 3: Geographical investigation Students will complete an individual fieldwork investigation relating to the A Level course. The work will be marked by your teachers and moderated by the examboard.

Exam based assessment and coursework.

PROGRESSION AND CAREERS Geography is highly valued by universities; it is one of the facilitating subjects. Higher education routes are wide and varied from Surveyor, Retail Manager, Teacher, Coastal Engineer, Weather Forecaster to Urban Planner.

HISTORY A LEVEL OVERVIEW Put simply, History is the study of the past. It is a vitally important subject in the modern world as it is inescapable; we study the past from our present perspective, so connecting us to the past and showing us who and why we are.

It allows us to understand the world in which we live, our personal history, by appreciating the events on a national and international stage that have shaped it.

Understanding this is not simply useful, it is crucial.

Furthermore, through the academic rigour of the subject, students who choose History develop key skills for their future lives, such as communication, presentation, analytical thinking, and decision-making.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS 5 GCSEs at grade 9-4, including English and Maths. GCSE History (grade 5 or above) is preferable but not essential.

STUDY UNITS Year 12 Unit 1: England 1445–1509 Lancastrians, Yorkists and Henry VII: including Wars of the Roses 1445–1461, Edward IV’s first rule and the crisis of 1470–1471, Edward IV and Richard III 1471–1485, Henry VII’s rule in England 1485–1509, Henry VII’s foreign policy 1485–1509.

Unit 2: Democracy and Dictatorships in Germany 1919–1963 This includes the establishment and development of the Weimar Republic 1919–1933, the establishment of the Nazi Dictatorship and its domestic policies 1933–1939, the impact of World War Two and defeat on Germany 1939–1949, and a divided Germany, the Federal Republic and the GDR 1949–1963.

Year 13 Unit 3: Russia and its Rulers 1855–1964 The nature of government in Russia includes autocracy, the impact of dictatorial regimes on the economy and society of the Russian Empire and the USSR, the impact of war and revolution on the development of the Russian Empire and the USSR, the Empire, nationalities and satellite states. There are also depth studies on Alexander II’s domestic reforms, the Provisional Government, and Khrushchev in power 1956–1964.

Unit 4: Independent research This unit is a non-exam, independently researched essay of 3000–4000 words in length. The work will be marked by teachers. Students will carry out an independent investigation of a historical issue of their personal choice.

ASSESSMENTS Exam based assessment and some internal assessment with external verification.

PROGRESSION AND CAREERS Higher Education: Ancient History, Medieval History, Early Modern History, Modern History, Archaeology, Law, Teaching. History is generally highly valued by universities; it is seen as a facilitating subject for the study of a wide range of subjects.

Careers: Historian, Teacher, Journalist, Librarian, Lawyer, Solicitor.

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LAW A LEVEL OVERVIEW

STUDY UNITS

ASSESSMENTS

Studying Law gives students an understanding of the role of Law in today’s society and raises their awareness of the rights and responsibilities of individuals.

1. Criminal Law - including: rules and theory of criminal law, fatal and non-fatal offences against the person, defences, property offences.

Exam based assessments.

By learning about legal rules and how and why they apply to real life, students also develop their analytical ability, decision making, critical thinking and problemsolving skills. All these skills are highly sought after by higher education providers and employers.

2. Tort Law - including: rules and theory of tort law, negligence, nuisance and defences.

Higher education: A Level Law is an excellent basis for further study in a range of degree subjects including: Law, Journalism, English, Media as well as providing a foundation for a degree apprenticeship in Law.

Topics are clearly structured and include: • Private law • Public law • Legal skills

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS At least 5 good GCSEs (grades 9-4) including English at grade 5.

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3. The nature of law and the English legal system - including: law and society, law and justice, law and morality, judicial precedent.

4. Human Rights - including: rules and theory in human rights, European Convention on Human Rights and International Law.

PROGRESSION AND CAREERS

Careers: Solicitor, Barrister, Legal Executive, Advocate, Journalist, Court Clerk, any other legal based profession.

MATHS MATHS A LEVEL A LEVEL OVERVIEW If you have a real interest in mathematics, enjoy the challenge of solving problems and can communicate in a logical, efficient manner, then Mathematics could be the course for you.

The content is split between Pure and Applied Mathematics. In Pure Maths, you will develop the algebraic and trigonometric skills you gained from GCSE. You will apply these new mathematical concepts and methods in your Statistics and Mechanics units.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS 5 GCSEs at grade 9-4 including English and Maths. You must achieve the equivalent of grade 6 or above in GCSE Mathematics.

STUDY UNITS AS Level Pure Mathematics • Develop your understanding of algebra, functions, trigonometry, sequences and vectors.

• Discover calculus, exponentials and logarithms.

• Understand the concept of proof.

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Statistics • Use a range of measures and distributions to analyse and model data.

• Test hypotheses to identify stability or change.

• Deepen your understanding of probability using Venn diagrams.

Mechanics • Discover Newton’s Laws of Motion and use them to model real life scenarios.

• Consider the forces acting on an object.

• Apply your knowledge of calculus and vectors to real problems.

A Level Pure Mathematics Extend your study of AS Level content, including: • Developing methods in calculus for functions not in polynomial form.

• Exploring new types of sequences and series.

Statistics • Consider more sophisticated statistical modelling to enhance AS Level skills.

• Develop an understanding of conditional probability.

Mechanics • Extend your kinematics knowledge to include projectiles.

• Consider how inclined planes and friction impact motion.

• Use moments to solve problems involving equilibrium.

ASSESSMENTS Exam based assessment in Year 13.

Two pure papers and one applied paper.

PROGRESSION AND CAREERS Higher Education: Mathematics, Statistics, Accountancy, Engineering, Computer Science, Education, Economics, Medicine, Dentistry.

Careers: Statistician, Accountant, Systems Analyst or Programmer, Economist, Teacher, Doctor, Dentist. Many of the ideas in Statistics have applications in a wide range of other fields, from assessing car insurance costs to evaluating risk due to natural disasters. Many techniques are used widely in Sciences and Social Science.

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PERFORMANCE AS LEVEL OVERVIEW This course encompasses drama, dance, music and any genre that involves performing in front of an audience.

Performing arts is a growth industry and this course gives students opportunities to research and gain insights into the industry, engage with effective practice and prepare for employment, further training and/or study.

Students have the opportunity to develop specialist knowledge, understanding and skills in either performance (dance, drama or music) or production (Choreography, set design, costume design, directing, stage management, lighting and sound).

Students choose one discipline, within either performance or production.

This course is an AS level course which will be studied over 2 years. The units involve students developing their performing skills and applying them to practical contexts.

Students will also plan and realise a Performing Arts event.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS A background in performing arts is preferable but not essential. The course builds on knowledge, understanding and skills developed in any GCSE creative and expressive arts subject, for example Drama, Music or Performing Arts.

STUDY UNITS The course has 2 units: Unit AS 1: Developing Skills and Repertoire This unit gives students the opportunity to develop one discipline within performing arts (from either Performance or Production) and then apply this discipline in a performance context. To develop the discipline, students work individually and in groups. They explore two contrasting extracts of repertoire from a range of existing material including musical scores, set works and published extracts.

Unit AS 2: Planning and Realising a Performing Arts Event Students interpret a stimulus to create a performing arts event that will draw on existing material. An external examiner will examine each student in their chosen discipline, which reflects the development of their skills from Unit AS 1.

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ASSESSMENTS AS1: A portfolio of research and development of skills alongside live performance/production.

AS2: Live performance and/or presentation.

PROGRESSION AND CAREERS Higher education: creative arts degrees in Music, Music Technology, Music Promotion, Dance, Drama, Performings Arts, Performance Art, Theatre Studies, Stage,Set and Costume Design, Musical Theatre, Media studies, Film and TV production, Technical Media Production.

Careers: Actor, Community Arts Worker, Choreographer, Dancer, Drama Therapist, Music Producer, Music Therapist, Theatre Director, Musician, Composer.

Jobs where your skills would be useful include: Arts Administrator, Broadcast Presenter, Film Director, Further Education Teacher, Higher Education Lecturer, Primary/Secondary School Teacher, Special Effects Technician, Talent Agent, Theatre Stage Manager.

PHYSICS A LEVEL OVERVIEW Physics is fundamental to our understanding of how the universe works.

By choosing to take an A Level in Physics, you choose to study an enormously stimulating subject that also sits right at the heart of technology development.

Physics today is a very rewarding and exciting field with new discoveries occurring at the frontiers of human knowledge. Its methods and insights are widely applicable and its practitioners highly sought.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS 5 GCSEs at grade 9-4, including Maths and Physics to grade 6 or Combined Science to grade 6-6.

STUDY UNITS AS Level Unit 1: Measurements and their errors Unit 2: Particles and radiation Unit 3: Waves Unit 4: Mechanics and materials Unit 5: Electricity A Level Will comprise of the five units of study which form the AS plus four additional units: Unit 6: Further mechanics and thermal physics Unit 7: Fields and their consequences Unit 8: Nuclear physics Unit 9: Astrophysics

ASSESSMENTS Exam based assessment.

PROGRESSION AND CAREERS Higher Education: Physics, Engineering and other Science-related courses.

Careers: While many students go on to careers that use their knowledge and expertise in Physics, others are readily employed in other areas such as Computing or Electronics. Skills gained through studying Physics, such as problem solving and numeracy, lend themselves to a range of careers including Engineering, Management, Accountancy, Law, Broadcasting and Computing/IT.

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BUSINESS STUDIES PSYCHOLOGY A LEVEL

OVERVIEW Psychology is the scientific study of human behaviour. You will look at different explanations for the way in which humans (and non-humans) behave.

You will also spend time analysing evidence and theories and comparing research in order to be able to reach conclusions about a variety of topics including schizophrenia, aggression and gender development.

You will look at how ideas and theories in each area of Psychology have developed, learn how to critically analyse evidence, and undertake some practical research.

During your studies, you will have the chance to visit local university psychology faculties, and outside speakers will also visit the school to offer particular insight into different areas of the subject.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS 5 GCSEs at grade 9-4, including English and Maths.

STUDY UNITS AS Level Unit 1: Paper 1 Social influence, memory and attachment.

Unit 2: Paper 2 Different approaches within the subject including: biopsychology, psychopathology (including phobias, depression and obsessive compulsive disorder), and finally research methods and the scientific process.

A Level Unit 1: Paper 1 Social influence, memory and attachment.

Unit 2: Paper 2 Different approaches within the subject including: • The humanistic and psychodynamic approaches.

• Biopsychology including brain research, scanning and biological rhythms.

• Research methods, including assessment of data and statistics.

Unit 3: Paper 3 Schizophrenia, cognition and development, and forensic psychology.

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ASSESSMENTS Exam based assessment .

PROGRESSION AND CAREERS Higher Education: Educational Psychology, Clinical Psychology, Occupational Psychology, Business Management, Psychiatry and Teaching.

Careers: Police, Nursing, Business Management, Human Resources, Hospitality, Counselling, Social Work, the Prison Service and Criminology.

APPLIEDAND SCIENCE HEALTH SOCIAL CARE BTEC LEVEL 3 OVERVIEW

STUDY UNITS

The BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Applied Science is intended as an Applied General qualification for post16 learners who want to continue their education through applied learning and who aim to progress to higher education and ultimately to employment, possibly in the applied science sector.

Learners will study three mandatory units.

The qualification is equivalent in size to one A Level and aims to give a coherent introduction to study of the applied science sector.

Learners choose one optional unit which has been designed to support choices in progression to applied science courses in higher education. These can include:

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Minimum of 5 GCSEs at grade 9-4, including English, Maths, and Combined Science (or Biology, Chemistry, Physics) to grade 5/5-5.

Unit 1: Principles and applications of science Unit 2: Practical scientific procedures and techniques Unit 3: Science investigation skills

Unit 8: Physiology of human body systems Unit 14: Applications of organic chemistry Unit 15: Electrical circuits and their application

PROGRESSION AND CAREERS The requirements of the qualification help learners develop the transferable and higher order skills which are valued by higher education providers and employers.

For example, when studying Unit 3: Science Investigation Skills, learners will develop skills including how to plan investigations, collecting, analysing, and presenting data and communicating results, all of which are the skills learners need to progress to higher education, employment, self-employment or training.

The qualification carries UCAS points and is recognised by higher education providers as contributing to admission requirements for many courses if taken alongside other qualifications as part of a two-year programme of learning, including, but not exclusively, those which are sciencerelated such as Nursing, Physiotherapy, Laboratory Technician, Food Technology or Engineering.

ASSESSMENTS The assessment for this BTEC is a mix of both internally assessed work and externally assessed assessments.

Unit 1 and 3 are externally assessed while Unit 2 and the optional unit are internally assessed.

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BUSINESS STUDIES CAMBRIDGE TECHNICAL LEVEL 3 OVERVIEW This course has been designed to provide you with a detailed knowledge and understanding of the main aims and objectives of any business. You will learn the roles and responsibilities of people in business and study how to be successful in many aspects of business planning.

Visits to local businesses will be arranged.

In the past, students have visited local businesses such as Greggs, Sainsbury’s and Hilton Hotel as well as Alton Towers and Disneyland Paris.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS At least grade 9-4 in GCSE English and Maths. No prior knowledge of Business is required but if previously studied at least a Level 2 pass in BTEC is required.

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STUDY UNITS Level 3 Cambridge Technical Extended Certificate in Business.

Unit 1: The Business Environment (Exam) Unit 2: Working in Business (Exam) Unit 4: Customers & Communication (Coursework) Unit 5: Marketing & Market Research (Coursework) Unit 8: Introduction to Human Resources (Coursework)

ASSESSMENTS Examinations will be set and assessed externally by the examination board, coursework units will be assessed internally by your teacher and moderated by the examination board.

PROGRESSION AND CAREERS Higher Education: This course will allow you to progress to higher education, go directly into the workplace or take up a higher level apprenticeship in the varied aspects of the business world.

Careers: Financial Management, Human Resources, Marketing/Advertising, Website Design, Operations Management and lots more!

HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE CAMBRIDGE TECHNICAL LEVEL 3 OVERVIEW This course will provide learners with the opportunity to develop a breadth and depth of knowledge, skills and understanding required by the Health and Social Care sector.

The course includes 360 Guided Learning Hours (GLH) which is equivalent to one A Level in terms of size.

Mandatory units Four mandatory units and two optional units.

Three externally examined units and the remaining units will be centre assessed and moderated by OCR.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS 5 GCSEs at Grades 9-4, including English, Maths and Health and Social Care.

STUDY UNITS Level 3 Cambridge Technical Extended Certificate in Health and Social Care.

Unit 1: Building positive relationships in health and social care Unit 2: Equality, diversity and rights in health and social care Unit 3: Health, safety and security in health and social care Unit 4: Anatomy and physiology for health and social care Unit 10: Nutrition for health Unit 13: Sexual health, reproduction and early development stages

PROGRESSION AND CAREERS Higher Education: Midwifery, Nursing, Paramedic Science, Mental Health Nursing, Radiography, Health Care Management, Physiotherapy, Psychology, Social Care and Teaching.

ASSESSMENTS There will be three external exams for units 2, 3 and 4. The remaining units will be assessed by coursework.

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ICT WITH WEB DESIGN BTEC LEVEL 3 OVERVIEW The IT industry is rapidly evolving as our jobs and personal lives are becoming more digital, more connected, and increasingly, more automated. Pressure on companies to stay ahead is intense and they are looking to recruit young people with the IT skills necessary to begin a career in technology.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS At least five good GCSEs (grades 9-4) including Maths and English.

STUDY UNITS Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Information Technology (Equivalent to One A Level).

Unit 1: Information Technology Systems Unit 2: Creating Systems to Manage Information Unit 3: Using Social Media in Business Unit 6: Website Development

ASSESSMENTS Unit 1: Externally Assessed Unit 2: Externally Assessed Unit 3: Internally Assessed, Externally Moderated Unit 6: Internally Assessed, Externally Moderated

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PROGRESSION AND CAREERS This course enables students to build the technical skills and knowledge needed to work in the computer industry in areas such as Web Design, Digital Technology Solutions, Data Management for Business, Computer Security or Creative Computing.

Many students continue their studies at university on cutting edge courses such as Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Computer Game Design and Digital Forensics.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND SPORTS COACHING CAMBRIDGE TECHNICAL LEVEL 3 OVERVIEW

STUDY UNITS

This qualification is for learners 16 years old or over who want to study sport, leisure or fitness.

Level 3 Cambridge Technical Extended Certificate in Sport and Physical Activity.

This qualification is not just about being able to play sport. It will provide learners with the skills, knowledge and understanding to progress into Higher Education on a sport related programme such as Sport and Physical Education.

Unit 1: Body systems and the effects of physical activity Unit 2: Sports coaching and activity leadership Unit 3: Sports organisation and development Unit 9: Sports psychology Unit 17: Sports injuries and rehabilitation

The Extended Certificate is an Applied General qualification and takes 360 guided learning hours to deliver which means it is equivalent to one A level.

Taking the Extended Certificate alongside other vocational or academic qualifications would allow learners to study sport and physical activity, or another related sector, in higher education or further study.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

PROGRESSION AND CAREERS Higher Education: Sports and Exercise Development, Physical Education with Qualified Teacher Status, Sports Coaching, Exercise Physiology and Physiotherapy.

Career: Sports Coaching, fitness training instruction, PE teaching, Police and Fire service and other uniformed services.

ASSESSMENTS There will be two external exams for Units 1 and 3. The remaining units will be assessed by coursework.

5 GCSEs at grade 9-4, including English, Maths and PE.

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TRAVEL AND TOURISM BTEC LEVEL 3 OVERVIEW This course has been designed to provide you with a detailed knowledge and understanding of one of the world’s fastest growing industries. It is an ideal qualification if you want a broad background into the travel and tourism industry.

Visits to travel destinations will be arranged. In the past, students have visited both local attractions and places further away such as Alton Towers, Disneyland Paris and New York.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS At least grade 9-4 in GCSE English and Maths. No prior knowledge of Travel and Tourism is required but if previously studied, at least a Level 2 pass in BTEC Travel and Tourism is required.

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STUDY UNITS Level 3 BTEC National Extended Certificate in Travel and Tourism.

Unit 1: The World of Travel and Tourism (Exam) Unit 2: Global Destinations (Exam) Unit 3: Principles of Marketing in Travel and Tourism (Coursework) Unit 4: Visitor Attractions (Coursework)

ASSESSMENTS Examinations will be set and assessed externally by the examination board, coursework units will be assessed internally by your teacher and moderated by the examination board.

PROGRESSION AND CAREERS Higher Education: This course will allow you to progress to higher education, go directly into the workplace or take up a higher level apprenticeship in the varied aspects of the travel and tourism industry.

Careers: Tourist Information, Tourist Guide, Customer Service Advisor, Resort Representative, Tour Operations, Telephone Sales, Hotel Manager, Activities Coordinator, Airlines and Airport Work and lots more!

MATHS AND ENGLISH GCSE RESIT OVERVIEW It is a national requirement that the resit course for GCSE Maths and GCSE English Language is a compulsory part of your post-16 study time if you do not achieve at least a grade 4 in one or both of these subjects at the end of Year 11.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Students will be required to continue studying English Language and/or Maths GCSE if they have not achieved at least a grade 4 in Year 11.

STUDY UNITS Maths You will recap and extend your skills in five key areas: Number: Work with integers, fractions, decimals and percentages.

Ratio and Proportion: Calculate with ratio and use it to solve proportion problems in real life context. Combine the use of ratio with fractions, percentages and algebra.

Algebra: Use formulae accurately in a real life context. Solve equations and inequalities. Understand how sequences work and how to find the nth term. Draw and interpret graphs.

Shape: Calculate areas and volumes.

Use Pythagoras’ theorem to find a missing length on a right angled triangle. Discover angle facts and construct loci.

Data: Compare data sets using average and spread. Display data using a range of diagrams. Explore the concept of chance and probability.

ASSESSMENTS Maths

One non calculator and two calculator examinations.

English

A spoken language assessment and two written exams.

PROGRESSION AND CAREERS Most university courses and many apprenticeships require applicants to have the equivalent of grade 4 in GCSE Mathematics and for English.

English You will recap and develop your skills in the following areas: Reading fiction and non-fiction: Identifying and interpreting information; analysing language and structuring; evaluating a text and comparing pre-1900 and modern texts.

Creative and non-fiction writing: Writing to describe or narrate and writing to explain a point of view.

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