SIXTH
SIXTH FORM COURSES 2024 – 2026
The Sixth Form (Year 12) represents the beginning of a new and exciting journey which takes pupils from school to university, or to the world of work. We are working hard on growing and developing our Sixth Form and we have a thriving community of young people enjoying and prospering from their learning, increased independence and shared experiences.
In our Sixth Form our pupils are closely supported by tutors and teachers in the pursuit of their academic goals and personal ambitions.
At Sherborne Qatar School for Girls, post 16, we offer AS (Advanced Subsidiary) Levels. These are the traditional qualifications offered by British curriculum schools for Year 12 pupils. They are highly valued by universities and employers and mainly focus on academic subjects.
Pupils sit external examinations at the end of Year 12 (AS Levels) which are mostly assessed by written examinations, although in some subjects, like Art, IT and Digital Media, there is a coursework element to assess practical skills.
It is the norm worldwide to study for three or four AS Levels in Year 12. AS levels are graded A to E. We would expect all Arab passport holders to take Arabic as their 4th AS level subject.
Taking four subjects in Year 12 means: a greater breadth of study – this is important as pupils starting their AS Level studies often do not have a definite idea as to what they want to study at degree level; pupils can keep their options open with regard to which subjects to study as a full A Level (if that is their intention) or what to study at university;
That said, there are occasions when there is a strong argument for a pupil commencing Year 12 to take just three AS subjects including Arabic. Such a decision will only be made after consultation with parents and each exception will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
AS/A LEVEL EQUIVALENCES
For your convenience we are sharing the latest guidance from the MOEHE on grade equivalency. Please read this with caution as the equivalency table can change.
ARABIC AND ISLAMIC STUDIES
It is a Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MoEHE) requirement that all Qatari pupils and other Arab passport holders MUST take Arabic in Year 12. This can be externally assessed as an AS level or A level or pupils can complete their Arabic studies by following the MOE curriculum. Specialist teachers will guide pupils to make the right choice for their future.
The MoEHE also requires that all Muslim pupils MUST study Islamic Studies in Year 12. This is taken outside of the option blocks, is non-examined, and totals 3 lessons each week (non-Muslim pupils will have additional private study periods during this time).
PHYSICAL EDUCATION, STUDY SKILLS & INTERHOUSE
Pupils also have two non-examined Physical Education lessons each week, five tutorial lessons (for careers guidance, teaching life skills, to provide support with university applications, PSHCE, reading and debating skills and assemblies) each week and a fortnightly inter-house and STEM event.
POST 16 STUDY
AS Levels are very demanding and once the academic year has started, every minute of study time is essential. There is more emphasis at this stage in a person’s education on independent learning and many courses demand significant reading in addition to a much deeper and broader knowledge than at i/GCSE. It goes without saying that good results in i/GCSE subjects are crucial as they are an important foundation to a pupil’s Sixth Form studies.
A good knowledge of current affairs is also advisable. Success is highly dependent on good organisation, preparation, hard work and maintaining the correct attitude to work and keeping a good work-life balance. Independence and personal responsibility are really important in the Sixth Form and we encourage our pupils to take a mature approach to their study habits, allowing them private study periods in which they are able to direct their own learning. It is essential that this time is used wisely, and we provide a variety of areas in school where pupils can work independently or in groups.
AS Levels are academically demanding, and we expect pupils to be spending equal amounts of private study to that of formal lessons. We also encourage pupils to read widely, including newspapers and current affairs magazines.
We want to inspire and motivate our pupils to be the best that they can be and to achieve their personal goals and aspirations. We have visiting speakers from universities and companies across the world to help our pupils make informed decisions about their future studies and careers. The Sixth Form team are also always available to provide guidance and to answer questions about university and careers.
Our pupils should strive to enjoy their Sixth Form experience which is not just about the classroom. Learning extends beyond the academic subjects that are taught with a range of activities available in our enrichment programme, including: Model United Nations, art and debating. We strongly believe in the health and well-being of our pupils and encourage participation in our varied enrichment activities, including sports programmes.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
As a rule, a minimum of 7 i/GCSE passes at grade 3 or above is required (including English Language and Mathematics) to study AS Levels; however, pupils should check specific entry requirements in the subjects chosen for AS Level in this booklet. Some subjects will require a higher grade. For Mathematics, Chemistry and Physics we ask for a minimum grade 6 at i/GCSE, but may consider pupils who have performed consistently at least to a grade 5 standard (throughout Year 11, including in the mock examinations) and have been endorsed by their previous subject teacher(s) as having the ability to cope with the rigour of the AS/A Level course. i/GCSE results are a good indicator of likely success at AS Level and A Level, and therefore we consider them very important before pupils are admitted onto courses. Any external applications are welcomed and reviewed individually.
FOR PARENTS
Parents have a key role in the options process, and in partnership with the school, parents can help their child make the best choices for his/her future success.
The right choice of subjects is vital at this stage. The actual process of choosing options is a learning experience that emphasises both independence and collaboration. It makes pupils think about where they are now, where they would like to be and the route they must take to get there. This is both challenging and exciting. Examination results change lives and open doors. Being both aspirational and realistic is a tricky but crucial balance.
FOR PUPILS
Pupils will need to make some important decisions about their next stage of learning, the appropriate route they need to take and the subject choices within this. There will be support for pupils as they make these important decisions; information will be provided for pupils in tutor time, and there will be opportunities for them to discuss their choices with subject teachers and form tutors. Options information will also be available online for pupils to look at in their own time.
CHOOSING THE RIGHT AS LEVELS AND A LEVELS
AS Levels allow pupils to specialise in one area, such as sciences or humanities; however, it is also possible to keep subject choice relatively broad.
Subject choices should reflect pupils’ abilities, strengths and interests. AS Levels are academically demanding and therefore it is important to follow a course that is both interesting and something that pupils have done well in at i/GCSE.
Subject choices can be critical in determining access to university courses and careful thought and research should go into making the right subject choices, especially for pupils who are pursuing medicine, dentistry, veterinary science and engineering.
For pupils who are not sure which subjects they wish to take, the best advice would be to try to keep options open and choose at least two ‘facilitating’ subjects (Biology, Chemistry, English Literature, Geography, Mathematics, and Physics).
If pupils know what they want to study at university, we encourage them to research the universities’ preferred AS Level subjects listed in the entry requirements of courses.
For those who wish to study a new subject some background research should be carried out before choosing it to understand what it involves. It is not enough to simply say it is interesting.
AS LEVEL SUBJECTS
Subject to interest, we will be offering the following AS Level subjects in September 2024:
1. Arabic*1
2. Art & Design
3. Biology
4. Business Studies
5. Chemistry
6. Digital Media
7. English Literature
8. Geography
9. Information Technology or Computer Science
10. Mathematics
11. Physics
12. Psychology
13. Travel & Tourism
As mentioned previously, in line with Ministry of Education and Higher Education requirements: 1, All Arab passport holders MUST study Arabic 2, All Muslim pupils, regardless of nationality, MUST study Islamic Studies. Islamic Studies MUST be taken outside the AS Level option blocks and the course will not result in external examinations and certification.
In the pages that follow, there are course overviews, including the assessment methods, for each of these subjects to enable pupils considering the AS Level route to start considering possible subjects to study in Year 12.
AS ENGLISH LANGUAGE
QUALIFICATION NAME AND NUMBER
Cambridge International AS Level English Language Code: 9093
EXAM BOARD
Cambridge International
ENTRY REQUIREMENT
Grade 6 and above in IGCSE English Language and/or Literature. Students with IGCSE English as a Second Language qualification cannot access this specification.
EXAM BOARD
Cambridge International
SYLLABUS SUMMARY
Cambridge International AS Level English Language provides learners with the opportunity to study English language and its use in communication. Learners will be encouraged to respond critically to a wide variety of texts in a range of forms, styles and contexts, and to promote skills of communication, reading, research and analysis.
Through their study, learners will develop an ability to read and analyse material, gaining further knowledge and understanding of English language features and issues. Learners will also develop the skills of writing clearly, accurately, creatively and effectively for different purposes and audiences.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
Paper 1 – Reading 50% Written Examination
Paper 2- Writing 50% Written Examination
TEXTBOOKS / RESOURCES / LINK TO THE EXAM BOARD
English Language for Cambridge International AS & A Level Coursebook by Mike Gould & Marilyn Rankin
Specification -
Cambridge International AS&A Level Eng Language 2024-26 https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/ Images/635901-2024-2026-syllabus.pdf
CONTACT PERSON
Mrs Sabbah Ayoub Head of English sayoub@sherborneqatar.org
MATHEMATICS
QUALIFICATION NAME AND NUMBER
International AS Level Mathematics Code:
XMA01-AS
EXAM BOARD
Pearson Edexcel
ENTRY REQUIREMENT
Grade 6 or above in iGCSE Mathematics
SYLLABUS SUMMARY
The AS Mathematics course is offered as a modular course covering Pure 1, Pure 2, and Statistics 1.
Pure 1 builds on iGCSE content and covers Algebra and functions; coordinate geometry in the (x, y) plane; trigonometry; differentiation; and integration.
Pure 2 extends Pure 1 content and covers Proof; algebra and functions; coordinate geometry in the (x, y) plane; sequences and series; exponentials and logarithms; trigonometry; differentiation; and integration.
Statistics 1 is the chosen applied module to complete the AS course. This unit covers Mathematical models in probability and statistics; representation and summary of data; probability; correlation and regression; discrete random variables; discrete
distributions; and the Normal distribution.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
The International AS Maths course is a modular course with three externally assessed exams in the summer, each equally weighted:
Pure Maths 1
Pure Maths 2
Statistics S1
Each unit has a written examination of 1 hour and 30 minutes with 75 marks each. The combined total forms the final grades.
TEXTBOOKS / RESOURCES / LINK TO THE EXAM BOARD
Specification - https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/ qualifications/edexcel-international-advanced-levels/ mathematics-2018.html
Course Textbook -
978 1292244792
978 1292244853
978 1292245140
PUPIL COMMENT
Pearson Edexcel IAL Pure 1
Pearson Edexcel IAL Pure 2
Pearson Edexcel IAL Statistics 1
“It’s fun when I understand. My teachers make math enjoyable. I need it to study engineering at uni.”
-Jenan (future engineer)
“At first Math was very hard to understand and keep up with the work. But when you have the passion for it, it becomes achievable.”
- Fajer (Future interior Designer)
CONTACT PERSON
Mrs Ruksana Begum Head of Mathematics rubegum@sherborneqatar.org
IAL BIOLOGY
QUALIFICATION NAME AND NUMBER
International Advanced Subsidiary Biology Code: XBI11
EXAM BOARD
Pearson Edexcel
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Mathematics – Grade 6
English Language – Grade 6
IGCSE Biology – Grade 6
SYLLABUS SUMMARY
Pupils will develop their knowledge and understanding of biology by applying the concepts in this specification to a range of different problems that include a variety of contexts. The topics covered are listed below:
Unit 1: Molecules, Diet, Transport and Health Unit 2: Cells, Development, Biodiversity and Conservation
Unit 3: Practical Skills in Biology I
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
The Advanced Subsidiary is a linear course which is assessed on 3 final end of year examination papers.
Paper 1 – Unit 1 Written Paper 1 hour 30minutes worth 40% of the AS qualification.
Paper 2 – Unit 2 Written Paper 1 hour 30 minutes worth 40% of the AS qualification.
Paper 3 – Unit 3 Written Paper 1 hour 20 minutes worth 20% of the AS qualification.
Paper 1 and paper 2 will include multiple-choice, short-open, open-response, calculations and extended writing questions as well as a minimum of 8 marks that target mathematics at Level 2 or above. Pupils will be expected to apply their knowledge and understanding to familiar and unfamiliar contexts.
In preparation for paper 3 pupils are expected to develop experimental skills, and a knowledge and understanding of experimental techniques, by carrying out a range of practical experiments and investigations while they study units 1 and 2. This unit will assess pupils’ knowledge and understanding of experimental procedures and techniques that were developed in units 1 and 2.
TEXTBOOKS / RESOURCES / LINK TO THE EXAM BOARD
Specification https://qualifications.pearson.com/ content/dam/pdf/International%20Advanced%20 Level/Biology/2018/Specification-and-SampleAssessment/International-A-Level-Biology-Spec.pdf
Course Textbook - ‘Edexcel International IAL Biology
Student Book 1’ published by Pearson Education, ISBN 978 1 2922 4484 6
‘Edexcel International Biology Lab book’ published by Pearson - ISBN 978 1 292 24469 3
PUPIL COMMENT
“Studying A level Biology allows you to explore the common chemistry shared by all life on Earth, you have the opportunity to investigate how proteins form different cell structures and how carbohydrates are commonly used by cells as respiratory substrates.”
Yusra – 12 Pearl
CONTACT PERSON
Mrs Saema Kauser
Head of Science skauser@sherborneqatar.org
IAL CHEMISTRY
QUALIFICATION NAME AND NUMBER
International Advanced Subsidiary Chemistry
Code: XCH11
EXAM BOARD
Pearson Edexcel
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Mathematics – Grade 6
English Language – Grade 6
IGCSE Chemistry – Grade 6
SYLLABUS SUMMARY
Pupils will develop their knowledge and understanding of physics by applying the concepts in this specification to a range of different problems that include a variety of contexts. The topics covered are listed below:
Unit 1: Structure, Bonding and Introduction to Organic Chemistry
Unit 2: Energetics, Group Chemistry, Halogenoalkanes and Alcohols
Unit 3: Practical Skills in Chemistry I
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
The Advanced Subsidiary is a linear course which is assessed on 3 final end of year examination papers.
Paper 1 – Unit 1 Written Paper 1 hour 30minutes worth 40% of the AS qualification.
Paper 2 – Unit 2 Written Paper 1 hour 30 minutes worth 40% of the AS qualification.
Paper 3 – Unit 3 Written Paper 1 hour 20 minutes worth 20% of the AS qualification.
Paper 1 and paper 2 will include multiple-choice, short-open, open-response, calculations and
extended writing questions as well as targeted mathematics questions at Level 2 or above.
Pupils will be expected to apply their knowledge and understanding to familiar and unfamiliar contexts.
In preparation for paper 3 pupils are expected to develop experimental skills, and a knowledge and understanding of experimental techniques, by carrying out a range of practical experiments and investigations while they study units 1 and 2. This unit will assess pupils’ knowledge and understanding of experimental procedures and techniques that were developed in units 1 and 2.
TEXTBOOKS / RESOURCES / LINK TO THE EXAM BOARD
Specification https://qualifications.pearson.com/ content/dam/pdf/International%20Advanced%20 Level/Chemistry/2018/Specification-and-SampleAssessment/International-A-Level-Chemistry-Spec.pdf
Course Textbook - ‘Edexcel International IAL Chemistry Student Book 1’ published by Pearson Education, ISBN 9781292244860
‘Edexcel International Chemistry Lab book’ published by Pearson - ISBN 978 1 292 24471 6
PUPIL COMMENT
“Studying A level Chemistry allows you to explore the world round you and offers you the opportunity to learn interesting and challenging concepts that link key chemical ideas together. You develop an understanding of how important Chemistry is in the real world and in so many different industries.”
Shahd – 12 Pearl
CONTACT PERSON
Mrs Saema Kauser Head of Science skauser@sherborneqatar.org
IAL PHYSICS
QUALIFICATION NAME AND NUMBER
International Advanced Subsidiary Physics
Code: XPH11
EXAM BOARD
Pearson Edexcel
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Mathematicss – Grade 6
English Language – Grade 6
IGCSE Physics – Grade 6
SYLLABUS SUMMARY
Students will develop their knowledge and understanding of physics by applying the concepts in this specification to a range of different problems that include a variety of contexts. The topics covered are listed below:
Unit 1: Mechanics and Materials
Unit 2: Waves and electricity
Unit 3: Practical Skills in Physics I
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
The Advanced Subsidiary is a linear course assessed on 3 final end-of-year examination papers.
Paper 1 – Unit 1 Written Paper 1 hour 30minutes worth 40% of the AS qualification.
Paper 2 – Unit 2 Written Paper 1 hour 30 minutes worth 40% of the AS qualification.
Paper 3 – Unit 3 Written Paper 1 hour 20 minutes worth 20% of the AS qualification.
Paper 1 and 2– This will include multiple-choice, short open, open-response, calculations and extended writing questions. The paper will include questions that target mathematics at Level 2 or above, a
minimum of 32 marks will be awarded for mathematics at Level 2 or above. Students will be expected to apply their knowledge and understanding to familiar and unfamiliar contexts.
In preparation for paper 3 Students are expected to develop experimental skills, and a knowledge and understanding of experimental techniques, by carrying out a range of practical experiments and investigations while they study units 1 and 2. This unit will assess students’ knowledge and understanding of experimental procedures and techniques that were developed in units 1 and 2.
TEXTBOOKS / RESOURCES / LINK TO THE EXAM BOARD
Specification https://qualifications.pearson.com/ content/dam/pdf/International%20Advanced%20 Level/Physics/2018/Specification%20and%20 Sample%20Assessment/9781446957783_IAL_Physics_ Iss3.pdf
Course Textbook - ‘Edexcel International IAL Physics Student Book 1’ published by Pearson Education, ISBN 9781292244877
‘Edexcel International Physics Lab book’ published by Pearson - ISBN 9781292244754
PUPIL COMMENT
“Physics seeks to develop your understanding of how the world works from the smallest point to the largest. Of all the topics we’ve covered so far, I enjoyed studying mechanics and materials the most, as this revitalised my interest in why and how things work.”
Noor – 12 Pearl
CONTACT PERSON
Mrs Saema Kauser Head of Science skauser@sherborneqatar.org
ARABIC AS A FIRST LANGUAGE
Qualification Name and Number
Arabic AS - Al (First language)
WAA01/01 – WAA02/01
Exam board
Pearson Edexcel
SYLLABUS SUMMARY
AS level Arabic as a first language is a qualification offered by Pearson Edexcel. It is a one-year course that is designed to help students develop their skills in reading, writing, and speaking Arabic. The course is assessed through a written examination
SKILLS SUMMARY
During the qualification you will need to learn: 1 Youth matters
Family relationships and friendships
Peer pressure and role models
Music and fashion
Technology and communication
2 Lifestyle, health and fitness
Food and diet
Sport and exercise
Health issues
Urban and rural life
3 Environment and travel
Tourism, travel and transport
Natural disasters and weather
Climate change and its impact
Energy, pollution and recycling
4 Education and employment
Education systems and types of schooling
Pupil/student life
Volunteering and internships
Jobs and unemployment
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
The qualification is assessed by the following components:
There is a written examination lasting 2 hours and 30 minutes as a single paper which consists of eight questions.
TEXTBOOKS / RESOURCES / LINK TO THE EXAM BOARD
There are a variety of resources available to help Pupils prepare for the IGCSE Arabic as a First Language (Pearson Edexcel) qualification, including:
• The Pearson Edexcel website: pearson-curriculum
• Specimen papers and mark schemes: pearsoncurriculum
• Revision guides and textbooks: There are a number of revision guides and textbooks available from a variety of publishers.
CONTACT PERSON
Mrs Enas Mhidat
Head of Arabic, Islamic Studies and Qatar History emhidat@sherborneqatar.org
INTERNATIONAL AS INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
QUALIFICATION NAME AND NUMBER
International AS Information Technology 9626
EXAM BOARD
Cambridge International
SYLLABUS SUMMARY
Students will explore a range of topic areas, including:
1 Data processing and information 2
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
Two exams at the end of Year 12 covering Units 1&2: Paper 1- Theory Exam - 70 marks Written Exam: 1 hour 45 minutes
Paper 2 – Practical Exam - 90 Marks Practical Tasks Exam: 2 hours 30 minutes
Each exam contributes to 50% of overall grade
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Grade 6 or above in iGCSE ICT.
TEXTBOOKS / RESOURCES / LINK TO THE EXAM BOARD
Pearson Edexcel International AS/A Level Business Student Book 1 – Rob Jones 2018
https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/programmesand-qualifications/cambridge-international-as-and-alevel-information-technology-9626/
PUPIL COMMENT
“What I like about ICT is that we learn how our everyday objects work, from computers to traffic lights etc. I now have a deeper appreciation for IT, this has developed my IT skills and will help me in my future field of work as everything revolves around IT.”
–Noora Nasser Alyafei Year 12 ICT
CONTACT PERSON
Miss Laura McCartan Head of Business Studies and ICT lmccartan@sherborneqatar.org
PSYCHOLOGY
QUALIFICATION NAME AND NUMBER AS Level Psychology Code: 9990
EXAM BOARD
Cambridge Assessment International Education
ENTRY REQUIREMENT
Grade 6 or above in iGCSE English Language and Math. IGCSE Biology is also recommended.
SYLLABUS SUMMARY
Pupils will study four psychological approaches: Biological, Cognitive, Learning and Social. Each approach is exemplified through 12 core studies. The core studies illustrate a wide range of research methods used in psychology, such as experiments, self-reports, case studies, observations, correlations and longitudinal studies. By exploring the relationship between the content of the study and teh reseach methods, pupils will gaina broad understanding of hw psychologists study experiences and behaviours and why the research took place.
SKILLS SUMMARY
Pupils will develop the skills of interpretation, application, analysis and evaluation while studying a range of stimulating topics and real-world issues.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
Pupils will be assessed over two papers.
Paper 1 – Approaches, Issues and Debates
1 hour 30 minutes
60 marks (50% of total marks)
Paper 2 – Research Methods
1 hour 30 minutes
60 marks (50% of total marks)
TEXTBOOKS / RESOURCES / LINK TO THE EXAM BOARD
Specification: https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/ Images/634461-2024-2026-syllabus.pdf
PUPIL COMMENT
“Psychology has helped me be more aware of people and their behaviours. “
CONTACT PERSON
Ms Siobhán Behan Head of Humanities sbehan@sherborneqatar.org
IAS BUSINESS STUDIES
QUALIFICATION NAME AND NUMBER
iAS Business Studies XBS11
EXAM BOARD
Pearson Edexcel
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Grade 6 or above in iGCSE Business Studies, English Language and Math.
SYLLABUS SUMMARY
Students will explore a range of business topic areas which they may decide to later focus on as part of their career pathway. This includes:
1. Meeting Customer Needs
2. The Market
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8. Resource Management
9. External Influences
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
Two exams at the end of Year 12 covering Units 1&2:
Paper 1- Unit 1: Marketing and People - 80 marks
Written Exam: 2 hours
Paper 2 – Unit 2: Managing Business Activities - 80
Marks Written Exam: 2 hours
Each exam contributes to 50% of overall grade ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Grade 6 or above in iGCSE Business Studies, English Language and Math.
TEXTBOOKS / RESOURCES / LINK TO THE EXAM BOARD
Pearson Edexcel International AS/A Level Business Student Book 1 – Rob Jones 2018 https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/ edexcel-international-advanced-levels/business-2018. html
PUPIL COMMENT
“I enjoy Business Studies as my parents studies it for their major encouraging me to take it. I enjoy how it relates to everyday life and because it allows me to analyse the inner working of a business. In class, I get to discuss ways to improve business management, operations and financial decisions, helping to improve my skills.”
– Deema Al Mohanndi Year 12 Business Studies
CONTACT PERSON
Miss Laura McCartan
Head of Business Studies and ICT Department lmccartan@sherborneqatar.org
AS GEOGRAPHY
QUALIFICATION NAME AND NUMBER
AS Level Geography Code: 9696
EXAM BOARD
Cambridge International
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Grade 6 or above at iGCSE Geography
SYLLABUS SUMMARY
Geography occupies a central position in understanding and interpreting issues affecting people, places and environments, and change in space and time. This syllabus encourages learners to understand contemporary issues and the complexity of environmental systems. Learners gain an understanding of the impacts of human activity on environments and how these impacts can be managed sustainably. This syllabus emphasizes studying real examples and case studies to show the diversity and interdependence of physical and human environments.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
Students will be assessed over two papers.
Paper 1 – Core Physical Geography
1 hour 30 minutes
60 marks (50% of total marks)
Paper 2 – Core Human Geography
1 hour 30 minutes
60 marks (50% of total marks)
TEXTBOOKS / RESOURCES / LINK TO THE EXAM BOARD
Specification: https://www.cambridgeinternational. org/Images/664556-2025-2026-syllabus.pdf
PUPIL COMMENT
“Studying geography at AS level opens you eyes to the world around you particularly thorugh studying different case studies and countries at different levels of development. “
CONTACT PERSON
Ms Siobhán Behan
Head of Humanities sbehan@sherborneqatar.org
TRAVEL AND TOURISM
QUALIFICATION NAME AND NUMBER
AS Level Travel and Tourism Code: 9395
EXAM BOARD
Cambridge Assessment International Education
ENTRY REQUIREMENT
Grade 6 or above in iGCSE Travel and Tourism.
SYLLABUS SUMMARY
Students will investigate changes in travel and tourism and appreciate the importance of sustainability. Students will acquire an enriched understanding of the development, management and marketing of travel and tourism destinations.
SKILLS SUMMARY
Students will develop critical thinking, independent research, communication and time management capabilities which will equip learners well for progression into higher education or directly into employment.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
Students will be assessed over two papers.
Paper 1 – Themes and Concepts
2 hours
75 marks (50% of total marks)
Paper 2 – Planning and Managing a Travel and Tourism Event
Coursework
50 marks (50% of total marks)
TEXTBOOKS / RESOURCES / LINK TO THE EXAM BOARD
Specification: https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/ Images/634457-2024-2026-syllabus.pdf
PUPIL COMMENT
“Planning and managing a Travel and Tourism event made me appreciate all the differest aspects of Travel and Tourism more. It also helped me develop many skills including time management and organisation. “
CONTACT PERSON
Ms Siobhán Behan Head of Humanities sbehan@sherborneqatar.org
DIGITAL MEDIA AND DESIGN
QUALIFICATION NAME AND NUMBER
Digital Media and Design (9481)
EXAM BOARD
Cambridge International
SYLLABUS SUMMARY
The AS Level in digital media and design allows pupils to develop an awareness of the world of digital media and design. They will study creative areas of digital media such as photography as a way of expressing meaning in their portfolio depending on the theme or brief. They will learn about different styles and genres of photography as well as composition and manipulation related to social, cultural, geographical or historical contexts. Pupils will present their research and evaluate information relevant to their studies.
Component 1: Portfolio 50%.
Component 2: Externally Set Assignment 50%.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
Components 1 and 2 are continually assessed over Year 12. Pupils choose a theme and develop their research using the theme as a starting point. Component 1 is a portfolio of work and there are two elements to the portfolio: supporting studies and a proposal. In component 2 pupils choose one assignment from the question paper. There are two elements to the assignment: supporting studies and a final outcome. The final outcome is produced during a supervised test of 10 hours total duration. There are four assessment objectives, each worth 25%: research and record, explore and select, develop ideas and produce.
The course culminates in a 10-hour exam at the end of Year 12. Components 1 and 2 are externally assessed.
TEXTBOOKS / RESOURCES / LINK TO THE EXAM BOARD
https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/ Images/664544-2025-syllabus.pdf
MINIMUM ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
GCSE English level 6 or above. GCSE Art and Design level 5 or above.
CONTACT PERSON
Ms Carly Moffitt Head of Art & Design Cmoffitt@sherborneqatar.org
ART AND DESIGN
QUALIFICATION NAME AND NUMBER
Art and Design (9479)
EXAM BOARD
Cambridge International
SYLLABUS SUMMARY
The AS Level in Art and Design allows pupils to develop the skills learned from GCSE Art, Craft and Design. They will explore a personal response to a theme through the investigation of traditional, contemporary and emerging techniques using a variety of two-dimensional and three-dimensional media and materials. These include drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, photography and textiles.
Component 1: Coursework 50%.
Component 2: Externally Set Assignment 50%.
HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?
Components 1 and 2 are continually assessed over Year 12. Pupils present their research, experiments and investigations on a series of boards. There are four assessment objectives that are each worth up to 25%: research, recording, development and creating a final outcome.
The course culminates in a 15-hour exam at the end of Year 12. Components 1 and 2 are internally assessed and externally moderated.
TEXTBOOKS / RESOURCES / LINK TO THE EXAM BOARD
https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/ Images/557248-2022-2024-syllabus.pdf
MINIMUM ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
GCSE Art and Design level 6 or above.
GCSE English level 6 or above.
CONTACT PERSON
Ms Carly Moffitt
Head of Art & Design Cmoffitt@sherborneqatar.org