OUR SIXTH FORM CURRICULUM GUIDE 2026/27
CONTENTS 02 Welcome from the
08 Leavers’ Results and
03 Welcome from the
09 The Curriculum
Head of Sixth Form Head Pupil
04 Our Sixth Form 05 Bringing out the Best
L eadership Opportunities Beyond the Curriculum Skills Development Physical Education Small Class Sizes Guidance for Life Beyond St James
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Destinations
10 Academics
WELCOME
From the Head of Sixth Form Mr Jonathan Mawer BA (Hons) PGCE, Head of History and Politics
It is a great pleasure to welcome students, parents and carers to the St James Sixth Form. Although this is my first year as Head of Sixth Form, over the past five years I have built up a wealth of experience in Key Stage 5 education, both through A-level teaching and through supporting students with UCAS, pastoral matters and the wider challenges and opportunities that come with these important years. I feel therefore both privileged to work with this outstanding group of young people and well placed to help them put their best foot forward as they embark upon this next stage of their school lives. As a former pupil myself, I know first-hand the value of a St James education. For me, one of the great strengths of sixth form is the opportunity it offers for renewal. However things may have gone before, the Sixth Form is a chance for a fresh start, a kind of blank slate that gives students the space to make new choices, to immerse themselves in subjects that they care about and to begin shaping the direction of their own future. That certainly resonated with me. I developed a love for my subjects during my time in the sixth form, and that love has endured and grown throughout my life. I hope our students will begin journeys here that will stay with them long after they’ve left school. And that sense of growth is something that applies to us all. As I begin my first year as Head of Sixth Form, I know that I too have much to learn, and I hope that we, staff and students, can learn from one another and grow together. Academic success matters, of course, and we were delighted with this summer’s results, but the Sixth Form experience is about more than exams. We want our young students not only to thrive in the classroom and beyond, but also to act as custodians of the Sixth Form and the wider school community. That means understanding that being in the Sixth Form is something temporarily entrusted to them. Their responsibility is to care for that community and ultimately to leave it stronger for those who follow.
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WELCOME From the Head Pupil Rowan R Head Pupil 2026-2027
I am extremely honoured and proud to have been appointed as Head Pupil for the upcoming school year. Having reflected on my St James journey, which started back in 2020, it has made me realise just how much I have grown and matured as a person, and I hope to give back to the very school that has developed me into the young man I am today. St James has been instrumental in the development of my character. I’ve learned so many lessons, both the easy and hard way, and been able to realise and overcome various challenges. Since the day I joined the school in Year 7, I’ve grown exponentially from an extremely introverted junior to a confident young leader in the school community, interacting with both students and staff from across the school. This year, quite frankly, has been like no other. The freedom sixth form allows is certainly remarkable and marks a real noticeable change as we develop into adulthood. However, as the saying goes, with great power comes great responsibility, and this freedom is contrasted by the level of work that comes with A-Levels and UCAS. Whilst the academic side of school has certainly ramped up, Year 12 has been an amazing time. Being a smaller year group, I found myself interacting with people I hadn’t previously interacted much with, both from my year and the year above. I should also note the strong sense of community between both Year 12 and Year 13 this past academic year; our collaboration and friendship amongst one-another has been remarkable, and this is something I hope can be recreated next year. It would be wrong not to thank Nathaniel (Head Pupil 2025-2026) and his outgoing team of prefects for their work this past year, and for their contributions to the school. Their work has been remarkable and inspired me with the confidence to apply for the role of Head Pupil back in January. I’d like to thank Mr Clarke, our Headmaster, for putting his trust in myself and my incoming team of prefects, as well as all the staff who have taught me throughout my six years at St James. 03 I SIXTH FORM CURRICULUM GUIDE
Common Room Our newly refurbished Common Room is a modern, welcoming space and the hub of everyday Sixth Form life. Set apart from the rest of the school, it gives students a sense of independence and a place to socialise and collaborate. With a pool table and kitchen facilities, it provides a comfortable space for students to work and connect between lessons.
Study Spaces A large, open-plan space designed for independent work, with private study rooms available for those who prefer a quieter environment.
Library Our newly renovated Library is a bright, welcoming environment with a wealth of academic and recreational books. It offers a quiet setting for reading, research and consolidating learning.
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BRINGING OUT THE BEST
Leadership Opportunities Sixth Form is an opportunity for students to take on greater responsibility and play an active role in the life of the school. Through the Sixth Form Leadership Team, students can represent their peers, support younger pupils and help shape the school community, with a range of leadership roles to suit different interests and strengths. These opportunities help students develop valuable skills in organisation, teamwork, public speaking and problem-solving, building confidence and preparing them for life beyond school. Students can also take part in outreach and community projects, making a positive contribution to the wider community while developing skills and experiences that will support them in the future.
Beyond the Curriculum Academic Symposia: The Academic Symposia gives students the opportunity to explore philosophical and literary texts from a range of traditions through discussion with peers and teachers. These sessions encourage students to engage deeply with ideas, consider different perspectives and develop their ability to discuss and debate. Community Outreach: Outreach projects give students the opportunity to contribute to the local community, developing their understanding of the world around them while making a positive contribution. For example, sixth form students have helped coordinate the St James Cup, a series of sporting tournaments for Year 5 pupils from primary schools in the local community. 05 I SIXTH FORM CURRICULUM GUIDE
S enior Lecture Series: Throughout their two years, students participate in our Senior Lecture Series, hearing from a diverse range of speakers, including St James alumni, academics and professionals. Covering a broad range of subjects and perspectives, the series encourages students to think beyond their academic studies, explore new ideas and challenge their thinking. Speakers also share their experiences and expertise, introducing students to different areas of interest and potential career paths. Philosophy and Mindfulness: Advanced Philosophy and Mindfulness sessions provide opportunities for students to continue exploring these areas throughout the Sixth Form, supporting the continuation of our ethos and encouraging reflection, curiosity and thoughtful discussion.
Skills Development Throughout the Sixth Form, there is a focus on developing the skills and attributes students need for employment and further education. Time management, teamwork, organisation, initiative and reliability are developed through everyday Sixth Form life, alongside targeted activities and experiences. • Students complete a one-week work placement in the first week of Year 13, giving them the opportunity to gain first-hand experience of the workplace. Students source their own placements with guidance from the Head of Careers, with flexibility for placements to take place during the summer holidays where appropriate. • Training helps students develop confidence and practical techniques for interviews and presentations.
Students will choose one of the following: Extended Project Qualification (EPQ): Students have the opportunity to undertake an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), an independent research project that allows them to explore a subject or question of their choice in greater depth. The EPQ develops valuable skills for further education and beyond, including independent research, critical thinking, project management, presenting and academic writing. Duke of Edinburgh Award: The DofE award encourages students to set themselves personal challenges, develop new skills, contribute to their community and take part in an expedition, providing opportunities for personal growth alongside their academic studies. Sport Leadership Course: Students can gain practical experience coaching and leading sporting activities, developing their confidence, communication and leadership skills. SIXTH FORM CURRICULUM GUIDE I 06
Physical Education Sixth Form students have one full afternoon of sport each week. They can also take part in Friday sports options when they are not in lessons, providing further opportunities to stay active and enjoy sport alongside their studies. Students also have access to the Strength and Conditioning Suite to support their fitness and sporting development.
Small Class Sizes With small class sizes, students benefit from more individual attention and a learning environment where they are encouraged to ask questions, share ideas and engage confidently. Our Sixth Form students are known not only by their teachers, but across the wider school community, helping them to feel seen, valued and supported. This close-knit environment gives students a strong sense of belonging, while providing the confidence and security to be themselves, take opportunities and make the most of their time in the Sixth Form.
Guidance for Life Beyond St James Throughout Sixth Form, each student receives individual guidance as they consider their options for life beyond St James. Tutors work closely with students to understand their interests, strengths and aspirations, helping them explore the range of pathways available, including university, apprenticeships and employment. Through one-to-one guidance, university visits, higher education events, work experience, and academic talks, students are encouraged to explore different possibilities and make informed decisions about their future. For those applying to university, Sixth Form Tutors provide tailored support throughout the UCAS process, from exploring course options and developing personal statements to completing applications and preparing references. Students considering competitive courses, including Oxbridge, Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary Medicine, receive additional specialist guidance and preparation tailored to the demands of these applications.
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LEAVERS’ RESULTS 2026
2025
2024
2023
99%
99%
95%
95%
Pass Rate
A* ABC Rate
Pass Rate
A* ABC Rate
Pass Rate
A* ABC Rate
Pass Rate
A* ABC Rate
OUR UNIVERSITY DESTINATIONS In recent years, leavers’ destinations have included the following universities:
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THE CURRICULUM Our pupil-centric approach recognises that every student is an individual, with their own strengths, interests and aspirations. We take the time to understand each student beyond their grades, with individual discussions helping them to consider their options and identify the pathway that is right for them. Each year, we review students’ subject choices and create a curriculum matrix that reflects the interests and needs of the cohort. Where a particular combination of subjects presents a challenge, we will explore possible solutions to help students pursue the subjects that are right for them. Where we believe an alternative qualification, such as an AAQ, would better suit a student’s strengths and ambitions, we will consider this alongside the A Level route. These qualifications carry equivalent UCAS Tariff points to an A Level and do not limit students’ future options. Our aim is to provide the pathway in which each student can achieve their best, while keeping their future options open.
TOP TIPS
Top tips for choosing the right subject choices! • A im for a balanced mix of subjects and skills • Consider your future ambitions
• Select subjects you enjoy • Choose subjects you perform well in or explore new subjects through speaking with Head of Departments or research
We offer a wide variety of subjects to choose from with different entry requirements, including: Chemistry
7 in GCSE Chemistry & Mathematics
Business Studies
6 in any Humanities-based subject
English Literature
6 in both GCSE English Language & English Literature
Politics
6 in any Humanities-based subject
Physics 7 in GCSE Physics & Mathematics
History
7 in GCSE History or 7 in a GCSE essay based subject
Spanish
7 in GCSE Spanish
Physical Education
6 in GCSE P.E or 6 in any GCSE Science
Economics
6 in GCSE Mathematics & English Language
Biology
7 in GCSE Biology
Computer Science
5 in GCSE Maths and 6 in GCSE Computer Science
Classical Civilisation
6 in Classical Civilisation or a Humanities-based subject
Psychology
6 in GCSE English Language, English Literature & Mathematics
Mathematics
7 in GCSE Mathematics
Art and Design 6 in GCSE Art
Further Mathematics 8 in GCSE Mathematics
Design and Technology 6 in Design & Technology and Mathematics
Geography
6 in GCSE Geography & Mathematics
Drama
6 in any Humanities-based subject
French
7 in GCSE French 09 I SIXTH FORM CURRICULUM GUIDE
Art & Design Why study Art & Design? If you love making things, communicating ideas visually and losing an afternoon in a gallery, this course gives you the space to do it properly. You will build a personal portfolio, guided by your own interests and by constant reference to historical and contemporary art, design and culture. Along the way you will develop communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills that travel well beyond the studio. Enthusiasm, visual awareness, a commitment to independent research and confident written English are all essential.
GCSE Grade Requirements Minimum Grade 6 in GCSE Art.
Content • Drawing, painting, printmaking, mixed media, photography and sculpture, shaped by your own interests
• Responding to the work of artists, designers, photographers and architects
• A personal investigation: a portfolio of practical work developed across Year 12 and the start of Year 13
Future Pathways Graphic design, product design, illustration, fashion, photography, architecture, television, film and advertising. Art History leads to careers such as exhibition curator or conservator, and 3D animation and game design offer exciting, future-proof routes.
• A personal study: a written, analytical piece of around 3,000 words on artists or photographers of your choice
• A final externally set assignment, with preparatory studies and a 15-hour sustained period of focused work
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3D Design What is the difference between the Art & Design and 3D Design course? If you love designing things that people can use, wear, live in or walk through, this course gives you the space to turn ideas into real design work. Unlike Art & Design, you will not do any fine art. Instead, you will focus on graphics and computer-aided design (CAD), using industry-standard software including SolidWorks and the full Adobe Creative Suite. Along the way you will develop creativity, problem-solving and technical skills that are valued well beyond the studio. Enthusiasm, visual awareness and a commitment to independent research are all essential.ss, a commitment to independent research and confident written English are all essential.
GCSE Grade Requirements Minimum Grade 6 in GCSE Art.
Content • Graphics and computer-aided design (CAD) using SolidWorks and the full Adobe Creative Suite
• Investigating architecture, engineering, product design, jewellery design, interior design, furniture design and set design
• Developing a broad range of design skills through your coursework
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Future Pathways 3D Design opens doors to architecture, civil engineering, interior design, surveying, construction management, accessories and clothing design, CAD drawing, set design and furniture design. It is also a strong foundation for any career in design.
Applied Science Why study Applied Science? Applied Science is an excellent choice for students who enjoy science and want to understand how scientific ideas are applied in practical and real-world contexts. The course develops knowledge across Biology, Chemistry and Physics, while also building practical laboratory, analytical, problem-solving and investigative skills. It is equivalent in size to one A Level and is designed to be studied alongside other level 3 subjects.
GCSE Grade Requirements Students should meet the general Sixth Form entry requirements. A secure foundation in GCSE Science and Mathematics is strongly recommended, as the course includes scientific calculations, data analysis and practical work.
Content
Future Pathways
Students study five units in total:
Applied Science can support progression to university, higher or degree apprenticeships, and employment in a wide range of science-related areas. Possible pathways include biomedical science, healthcare, laboratory science, environmental science, forensic science, pharmaceutical science and other technical or scientific careers.
• Principles and Applications of Biology • Principles and Applications of Chemistry • Principles and Applications of Physics • Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques
• One optional unit, chosen from areas such as Science Investigation Skills or Contemporary Issues in Science The course includes a combination of externally assessed units and internally assessed practical and assignment-based work, giving students the opportunity to demonstrate their understanding in a range of different ways.
Students considering degree courses that specifically require A Level Biology, Chemistry or Physics should check individual university entry requirements carefully.
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Biology Why study Biology? Biology asks the biggest questions there are about how life works, how it evolves and how we can protect it. The course builds on GCSE and goes much deeper, starting with microscopy and cell biology and moving on to topics such as the nervous system, respiration and biotechnology. Practical work runs throughout, and you will also explore how society makes decisions about scientific issues.
GCSE Grade Requirements Grade 7 in GCSE Biology.
Content • Development of practical skills, assessed throughout the course
• Foundations in biology: cell structure, biological molecules, enzymes, membranes and cell division
• Exchange and transport in animals and plants
• Biodiversity, evolution, classification, disease prevention and the immune system
• Communication and homeostasis: nervous and hormonal systems, plant and animal responses, photosynthesis and respiration
• Genetics, inheritance, manipulating genomes, cloning and biotechnology
• Ecosystems, populations and sustainability
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Future Pathways Biology is a recognised entry qualification for medicine, radiography, genetics, forensic science and environmental science, as well as many other health and life science degrees.
Business Studies Why study Business Studies? Business is everywhere, and this course shows you how it all connects. You will use models, theories and real examples to explore live issues such as digital technology, business ethics and globalisation. You will learn to analyse data, think critically and make informed decisions, always with an eye on who is affected and where the information has come from. Keeping up with current business news is part of the fun.
GCSE Grade Requirements Grade 6 in GCSE Business, in English or in any Humanities subject.
Content • What is business? • Managers, leadership and decision making
• Decision making to improve marketing, operational, financial and human resource performance
• Analysing the strategic position of a business
Future Pathways Business, management, marketing, finance, accountancy and entrepreneurship degrees, as well as apprenticeships and direct entry into business careers. The data analysis and decision-making skills are valued in almost every sector.
• Choosing a strategic direction • Strategic methods: how to pursue strategies
• Managing strategic change
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Chemistry Why study Chemistry? Chemistry takes you deeper into inorganic, organic and physical chemistry, and sharpens your practical, analytical and problem-solving skills. Hands-on experiments are central to the course, so you will apply the theory in the lab and grow in confidence as a scientist. It is the ideal subject if you are curious about how the world works and enjoy challenging but rewarding problems.
GCSE Grade Requirements Grade 7 in GCSE Chemistry and Grade 7 in GCSE Mathematics.
Content • Development of practical skills in chemistry
• Foundations in chemistry • The periodic table and energy • Core organic chemistry • Physical chemistry and transition elements
• Organic chemistry and analysis (synthesis and analytical techniques)
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Future Pathways Chemistry is a gateway to medicine, dentistry, veterinary science, pharmacy, chemical engineering, biochemistry, materials science and forensic science, as well as careers in research, industry and the environment. It is also a strong partner to Maths and Physics.
Classical Civilisation Why study Classical Civilisation? This is a chance for a truly holistic study of the ancient world, its literature, history, politics and culture. You will read some of the most influential texts ever written, including epic poetry and Greek tragedy, and explore the political values of Republican Rome. There is a strong focus on building persuasive arguments, structuring your thoughts and using texts to support your opinions, all skills that universities value highly.
GCSE Grade Requirements Grade 6 in GCSE Classics or in any GCSE Humanities subject.
Content • The World of the Hero: an in-depth study of Homeric epic (the Iliad or the Odyssey)
• Culture and the Arts: visual and material culture, focusing on Greek theatre
• Beliefs and Ideas: classical thought
Future Pathways Popular degree choices include History, PPE (Politics, Philosophy and Economics), English and Law. Classical Civilisation also prepares you for careers in journalism, law, media, the Civil Service and politics.
and the politics of the Late Republic
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Computer Science Why study Computer Science? Computers are everywhere, and this course asks whether you are equipped to shape what comes next. If you are a logical thinker who enjoys numbers and problem solving, it is the ideal start. You will learn to model and analyse problems, design solutions and program at an advanced level. For your independent project, you build a program on a topic of your choice, such as a game, a quiz app or a database application.
GCSE Grade Requirements Grade 5 in GCSE Mathematics and Grade 6 in GCSE Computer Science.
Content • Computer systems: CPUs, input, output and storage devices
• Software and software development • Data types, data structures and algorithms
• Legal, moral, cultural and ethical issues
• Computational thinking, problem solving and programming
• Standard algorithms and how to apply them
• An independent programming project: analysis, design, development and evaluation
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Future Pathways Computer science skills open doors in consultancy, IT services, telecommunications, aerospace, robotics, defence, financial services, banking, retail, healthcare, manufacturing, agriculture, the public sector and more.
Drama Why study Drama? You will work with plays as a director, designer, performer and critic, building your knowledge of the language of theatre while developing your performing and analytical skills together. You will devise original work, perform published plays and reimagine texts for a contemporary audience, growing more autonomous and confident with every project. You will also have the chance to study a wide range of drama practitioners and to perform in their styles, coming to understand how different theatre productions are created. You will learn about creating your own scripts and the skills needed to put together an entire performance. You will also be given opportunities to go to the West End and watch exciting productions, as well as take part in workshops.
GCSE Grade Requirements Minimum Grade 6 in GCSE English or in any Humanities subject.
Content • Devising an original performance piece, inspired by a key extract from a performance text and a theatre practitioner
• Performing a monologue and an extract from a professionally published play
• Live theatre evaluation
Future Pathways Drama can lead to a wide range of careers across the creative industries, including acting, directing, stage management and theatre design. The confidence, communication and teamwork skills also lead to careers in media, teaching, law, marketing and public speaking.
• Practical exploration of a complete performance text, focusing on how it can be realised for performance
• Interpreting a second text through the lens of a chosen theatre practitioner and reimagining it for a contemporary audience
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Economics Why study Economics? Economics helps you make sense of the political, global and social forces shaping everyday life. You will develop an enquiring, critical “economist mindset” and learn to analyse, explain and evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the economy and the role of government within it. It is a rigorous subject, with extensive reading, writing, analysis and reasonable quantitative ability required, and it rewards intensity, selfmotivation and hard work. No prior knowledge of economics is assumed.
GCSE Grade Requirements Minimum Grade 6 in GCSE English Language and Mathematics. You should also show an interest in current UK, government, international business and economic affairs, and you will be asked to submit summer work for assessment.
Content • Markets and market failure: the economic problem, competitive markets, production efficiency, government intervention
• The national economy: macroeconomic performance, the circular flow of income, macroeconomic policy
• Business economics and the distribution of income: the firm, concentrated markets, the labour market
• The national and international economy: macroeconomic indicators, managing the national economy, the international economy
• Economic principles and issues across the whole course, with extended-response questions
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Future Pathways Economics, finance, accountancy, business, politics and PPE degrees, and careers in banking, consultancy, government and policy. It also combines well with Maths, Geography, History and Politics.
English Literature Why study English Literature? English Literature is an exciting and inspiring A Level, viewed very highly by universities. You will explore a range of literature from the classic canon to newer voices, and will study Drama, Poetry, and Prose. You will build on your GCSE skills and additionally will use literary theories and critics to explore different interpretations and develop an increasingly sophisticated academic voice. Each year is team-taught, so you learn several skills and study several texts at once. Keen readers thrive here, and you will be encouraged to read widely beyond the course.
GCSE Grade Requirements Minimum Grade 6 in GCSE English Language or English Literature.
Content • Shakespeare, Drama and Poetry pre-1900
• Comparative and contextual study of texts: The Gothic
• Coursework: a comparative essay plus an analytical or creative task
Future Pathways English Literature opens the door to a range of future pathways. Many students go on to study Law, History, Classics or Languages. Career opportunities include Media & Television, Law, Marketing, Civil Service, Journalism, Publishing, Teaching, and many more!
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French Why study French? French A Level is varied, exciting and challenging, and it says a lot about your ability to stick at something that takes time to perfect. You will study how French-speaking society has been shaped socially and culturally, and how it continues to change, while becoming far more fluent. You will also develop the skills to learn any language. The course opens up opportunities to stay with a host family and combine that with work experience, watch French films at the French Institute, and support younger pupils with GCSE speaking practice, all of which look good on a university application.
GCSE Grade Requirements Minimum Grade 7 in GCSE French.
Content • Aspects of French-speaking society: current trends and current issues
• Artistic culture in the French-speaking world
• Aspects of political life in the Frenchspeaking world
• The study of one book and one film • An individual research project, presented in the speaking exam
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Future Pathways Language skills are valuable in almost any career, especially in businesses that trade internationally. Directly related jobs include academic researcher, interpreter, political risk analyst, secondary school teacher and translator. Useful in roles such as broadcast journalist, diplomatic service officer, international aid worker, logistics manager, marketing executive, publishing rights manager, sales executive and tour manager.
Geography Why study Geography? Geography helps you understand your place in a rapidly changing world. You will learn to analyse and interpret visual, written, graphical and data sources while exploring the key issues facing our planet, from tectonic hazards to global power shifts. You will complete your own fieldwork investigation during a residential trip in Activities Week in Year 12, then write it up in Year 13.
GCSE Grade Requirements Grade 6 in GCSE Geography and Grade 6 in GCSE Mathematics.
Content • Tectonic processes and hazards • Coastal landscapes • Globalisation • Diverse places • Geographical investigation • The water cycle and water insecurity • The carbon cycle and energy security • Superpowers • Global development and connections (migration, identity and sovereignty)
• A synoptic investigation of a contemporary geographical issue
Future Pathways Geographers are among the most employable graduates. Degrees include Geography, environmental science, government and politics, and travel and tourism. Geographical skills are valued in journalism and the media, town and country planning, law, engineering, accountancy, finance, business management, ICT, teaching, marketing, and leisure and tourism.
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History Why study History? History is the study of us: real people in real situations, how they responded and what followed. It offers fascinating insight into human nature and the world that people like us have created. The course spans the medieval to the modern, with everything from the Crusades to Churchill and the development of warfare and ends with an independent study on a topic of your own choosing.
GCSE Grade Requirements Grade 6 in GCSE English (Language or Literature) and Grade 6 in GCSE History.
Content • The Crusades and the Crusader states: the First, Second and Third Crusades and the Crusader states in the twelfth century
• Britain from the 1930s to 1997: Churchill as wartime and post-war Prime Minister, Conservative and Labour governments, Thatcher and the end of consensus
• The development of warfare from the French Revolution to the end of the Second World War
• Depth studies on the French Revolutionary Wars, the American Civil War and the Western Front in the First World War
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Future Pathways History is respected at every top university and pairs well with English, Geography and other Humanities. A History degree opens the widest range of careers, including journalism, the Civil Service, teaching, business and politics.
Mathematics Why study Mathematics? Where does Mathematics show up in the world of work and in society at large? Almost everywhere. A Level Mathematics builds your confidence and a strong foundation for further study, extending your skills in algebra, geometry and statistics and introducing calculus and mechanics. You will need to commit to a degree of independent learning, but the payoff is a qualification that is respected across every field.
GCSE Grade Requirements Minimum Grade 7 in GCSE Mathematics.
Content
Future Pathways
Pure mathematics • Proof • Algebra and functions • Coordinate geometry • Sequences and series • Trigonometry • Exponentials and logarithms • Differentiation and integration • Numerical methods • Vectors
Actuarial science, engineering, data analysis, research and computer science. Mathematics goes especially well with the sciences, particularly Physics.
Statistics • Sampling • Data presentation and interpretation • Probability • Statistical distributions • Hypothesis testing Mechanics • Quantities and units • Kinematics • Forces and Newton’s laws • Moments
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Further Mathematics Why study Further Mathematics? How can mathematics help us understand, predict, explain and solve society’s big questions? If you are considering Mathematics, Physics, Engineering or Economics, or if you simply love maths, Further Mathematics is a fascinating and demanding course to take alongside A Level Mathematics. Classes are small (typically two to six students) and taught by experienced specialists with a true love of the subject.
GCSE Grade Requirements Minimum Grade 8 in GCSE Mathematics.
Content • Core pure mathematics: proof, complex numbers, matrices, further algebra and functions, further calculus, further vectors, polar coordinates, hyperbolic functions and differential equations
• Two further options chosen from those the school offers: Further Pure, Further Statistics, Further Mechanics and Decision Mathematics
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Future Pathways Excellent preparation for Engineering and Sciencerelated courses, and usually a prerequisite for a degree in Mathematics. It pairs especially well with the sciences.
Physical Education Why study Physical Education? Physical Education gives you a holistic understanding of how the mind and body work together in performance, and how global influences shape sport today. The course uses your own practical experience to reinforce the theory, so what you learn in the classroom comes to life on the pitch, the court or the track. You will also be assessed in one practical activity as a player, performer or coach, so you need to be able to play one sport to a high standard.
GCSE Grade Requirements Grade 6 in GCSE PE or in a GCSE Science subject, plus the ability to play one sport to a high standard.
Content • Applied anatomy and physiology • Exercise physiology • Applied movement analysis • Skill acquisition • Sports psychology • Sport and society • Practical performance in one activity as a player, performer or coach
Future Pathways The course lays the foundations for Sports Science degrees and for apprenticeships in the sports and coaching sectors. It also gives access to medicalrelated courses such as Physiotherapy and Sports Therapy.
• Performance analysis and a personal development programme
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Physics Why study Physics? Physics is the search for the laws that govern everything from the very small (quantum mechanics) to the entire universe, and the practice of putting those laws to work. Practical experiments run through every topic, so the course is both academic and hands-on. You will learn to apply key concepts to problems in a range of contexts. Physics is one of the most widely accepted qualifications for university, and Maths, Physics and Chemistry make a powerful combination.
GCSE Grade Requirements Grade 7 in GCSE Physics and Grade 7 in GCSE Mathematics.
Content • Development of practical skills: planning, implementing, analysis and evaluation
• Foundations of physics: physical quantities and units, measurement and data analysis
• Forces and motion: motion, forces in action, work, energy and power, materials and momentum
• Electrons, waves and photons: charge and current, energy, power and resistance, circuits, waves and quantum physics
• The Newtonian world and astrophysics: thermal physics, circular motion, oscillations, gravitational fields, astrophysics and cosmology
• Particles and medical physics: capacitors, electric fields, electromagnetism, nuclear and particle physics, medical imaging
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Future Pathways Physics is essential for Physics and Engineering courses, and it is highly regarded for medicine, law and economics because of the thinking and problem-solving skills it develops.
Politics Why study Politics? Politics gives you a thorough grounding in key concepts such as democracy, legitimacy, power and rights, plus real insight into how politics works in this country. In Year 12 you will ask how democratic the UK really is, explore political ideologies and analyse institutions such as Parliament, government and the Supreme Court, focusing on what is happening right now. In Year 13 you turn to the United States, comparing two political systems in action.
GCSE Grade Requirements Grade 6 in GCSE English (Language or Literature), History or Geography.
Content
Future Pathways
Politics in the UK • Democracy and participation • Political parties • Electoral systems • Voting behaviour and the media • Conservatism, Socialism and Liberalism • The UK Constitution • Parliament • The Prime Minister and the executive • Relationships between the branches of government • Feminism
Journalism, the Civil Service, local government and business (which is regulated and influenced by politics). There are many degree courses in Politics and International Relations, and the subject is a useful companion to Economics, History and Geography.
Politics in the USA • The US Constitution and federalism • The US Presidency • The US Supreme Court and civil rights • Democracy and participation • Comparison with the UK
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Psychology Why study Psychology? Psychology answers questions you have probably already asked yourself. How does memory work, and why do we forget? Why do people develop phobias or depression? How do social influences shape our behaviour? Biopsychology takes you into the world of neurons and the human brain, and you will learn a wide range of research, data collection and analysis methods. The course builds on skills from both science and the humanities, and no previous experience is needed.
GCSE Grade Requirements Grade 6 in GCSE English Language and Grade 6 in GCSE Mathematics.
Content • Social influence • Memory • Attachment • Psychopathology • Approaches in psychology • Biopsychology • Research methods • Issues and debates in psychology, with one option chosen from: – Relationships, gender, cognition and development – Schizophrenia, eating behaviour and stress – Aggression, forensic psychology and addiction
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Future Pathways Psychology, neuroscience, sociology, criminology and education degrees, plus careers in clinical and forensic psychology, counselling, social work, HR and marketing. The critical thinking it develops is well regarded by employers.
Spanish Why study Spanish? Spanish A Level is varied, interesting and one of the most enjoyable challenges you can take on, because you finally get to use the language to discuss real-life issues. It shows your ability to persevere at something that takes time to perfect and gives you a lifelong skill for learning any language. In Year 12 you will explore Spanish society and political and artistic culture, including Franco’s dictatorship and the film Ocho Apellidos Vascos. In Year 13 you will cover immigration and multiculturalism, South American dictatorships, the Spanish monarchy, and Gabriel García Márquez’s novel Crónica de una muerte anunciada. Enrichment includes Cervantes Cultural Programme events, trips to London to watch Spanish plays and films, and opportunities to stay with a host family alongside work experience. You will also help inspire younger pupils by running events such as cinema evenings, Spanish clinics and speaking clubs.
GCSE Grade Requirements Grade 7 in GCSE Spanish.
Content • Aspects of Spanish-speaking society: current trends and current issues
• Artistic culture in the Spanishspeaking world
• Aspects of political life in the Spanish-speaking world
Future Pathways Language skills are valued in almost every career, especially in international business, diplomacy, translation and interpreting, journalism, teaching, law and international development.
• The study of one book and one film • An individual research project on a sub-theme of your choice, presented in the speaking exam
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PSHE & RSE Sixth Form is about more than grades. PSHE & RSE (Personal, Social, Health, Economic, Relationships and Sex Education) prepares you for life beyond St James: keeping yourself safe, handling money, starting work, moving away from home and building healthy relationships. It reflects our ethos of spiritual and emotional development and makes sure you leave ready for whatever comes next. All Sixth Form students take part, with fortnightly lessons throughout Year 12 and Year 13. It is a statutory requirement, so there are no entry grades. There is no external exam, but we assess internally to track how well each topic has been understood and to offer extra support where it is needed.
Content • Risk and personal safety: travel safety,
• Personal finance: budgeting, money
drugs and alcohol education, and gang safety
in the economy, credit and debt management
• Media and the digital world: privacy
• Looking after yourself: body image
and professional presence, social media and extremism
and self-esteem, eating well on a budget, and work/life balance
• Interacting with others: prejudice,
• Relationships and sex education
meeting new people and managing dangerous situations
• Relationships and sex education (Part 1): contraception and STIs, understanding parenthood and investigating rape culture
• Career and employment: job application skills, salary management and workplace conduct
• Change at university: looking after your mental and physical health away from home, and first aid
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(Part 2): healthy relationships, managing unwanted attention, the practicalities of relationships and managing expectations
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Aim for the Best, Speak the Truth, Live Generously.
St James Ashford Church Road Ashford Surrey TW15 3DZ
www.stjamesboys.co.uk