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Super-Curricular Programme Options Booklet 2026-2027

Super-Curricular Programme All pupils must choose three A Levels. All pupils must then choose a 4th option; this should be either: 1. 8 periods of options from the Super-Curricular Programme 2. A fourth A Level This 4th option must be studied until at least the Summer Half Term of Lower Sixth. Pupils may still choose a 5th A Level option if they wish, this could be either Further Maths or an option from the Super-Curricular Programme of up to 4 periods a week. University courses require just three A Level courses, and this change allows us to focus on supporting pupils to achieve the best possible results in these. The Super-Curricular Programme provides opportunities for further study, work experience, volunteering and skills acquisition. Timeline If you have chosen 3 A Levels, or would now like to choose 3 A Levels, read through the options here and select 8 periods of options from the Super-Curricular Programme. If you would prefer, you are able to select up to 8 periods of Supervised Silent Study instead of, or to complement, the options listed here. 23rd February – 9th March All pupils will meet with Mrs Middleton (Director of Academic Administration and the Timetable) and Mrs McAleese (Head of Sixth Form) to discuss their preferred SuperCurricular Programme options and to confirm if these are possible alongside the proposed A Level timetable. This meeting is also a good opportunity for pupils to confirm their most up to date A Level plans. Summer Term Options will be confirmed with pupils and parents. Post GCSE Results Day Pupils will be asked to confirm their A Levels and Super-Curricular Programme options.

Rationale The Super-Curricular Programme looks to provide valuable skills and experience beyond the A Level curriculum without detracting from the time required for a pupil’s three A Levels. Universities now predominantly require only 3 A Levels for entry to their degree courses. Whilst all of our pupils were choosing to start with 4 A Levels, only around 10% completed this fourth A Level each year. This allows us to maintain our high quality teaching and support for our A Level subjects whilst providing pupils with a chance to gain skills, knowledge and experiences ready for the world of work or university after school.

Skills Fifteen of the courses are focused on helping pupils to acquire new skills and knowledge in topics, ranging from Artificial Intelligence and Electronic Music, to Philosophy Beyond the Syllabus. Values Not only are there academic subjects to be explored, but also chances for volunteering for important causes or valuable work experience in a pupil’s chosen field. The skills and perspective gained through this programme will help St Peter’s pupils continue to be thoughtful members of the local community. Interests Whether sporty, artistic, or wishing to refine their business skills, St Peter’s believes that any pupils’ interests could be catered to through the programme’s offering. This programme allows pupils to develop their interests in topics not usually seen on the syllabus. Qualifications Whilst the programme is designed to compliment our A Level qualifications, a number of the options available furnish the pupils with additional qualifications from Core Maths to certificates in Speech and Presentation.

Oxbridge Support The whole of our Super-Curricular Programme offers structured opportunities that align closely with the recommendations published on Oxbridge admissions websites. Further opportunities are available as part of the Co-Curricular programme with a wealth of academic enrichment clubs. For those hoping to apply to Oxbridge, we also provide the following dedicated support: From February of Lower Sixth, pupils join a dedicated Oxbridge Team, coordinated by Dr Flett, who guides them through every stage of the process. Each pupil is paired with a subject‑specific Oxbridge mentor who provides tailored advice on personal statements, wider reading, and interview preparation. Pupils invited to interview receive at least one practice interview with a subject specialist from another school, giving them experience of unfamiliar interviewers and styles. Ongoing support is also available at any time from Ms McAleese and the Careers Team. We continue to see strong results from this provision, and last year we have had twice as many Oxbridge offers as the previous year.

Applying for Medicine A similar level of support is available for our Medicine applicants: A dedicated Team is set up which highlights the various workshops and events that are Medicine focused. Pupils are supported in finding work experience with York hospital and other relevant locations. We offer a Q&A session between Lower Sixth embarking on the process and Upper Sixth Medicine offer holders. Those with interview offers are provided with at least one practice interview. Again, we continue have successful Medicine applicants each year. Last year applicants were accepted to study Medicine at universities across the UK including UCL, Oxford, Liverpool and Sheffield.

Academic All the following academic options lead to a qualification.

Course

Page

Classical Greek

Core Maths

EPQ

English Speaking Board: Certificate in Speech

English Speaking Board: Professional Presentation

iDEA

15-16

Skill Acquisition All of the following options develop skills and knowledge in a variety of subjects. Course

Page

St Peter’s Personal Finance Course

Artificial Intelligence

Astronomy

DT / Art / Music A Level preparation

Electronic Music

Film Studies

Graded Musical Instrument Lessons and Practice

LAMDA

MOOC Skills Pathway

MFL Speaking Lessons

Study Skills

St Peter’s Enterprise Course

The Big Questions: Philosophy Beyond the Syllabus

Virtual Work Experience

Work Experience (In Person)

Sport and Service The following options provide pupils with the chance to develop their own fitness or sport skills or to volunteer their time to help others. Course

Page

Programmed Gym Sessions

Athlete Pathway Support Provision

Level 3 Sports Leader Qualification

Volunteering

Classical Greek Pupils will be taught Classical Greek starting with the alphabet building up to translating short stories. This course would be well suited for those interested in studying languages / linguistics at university but is equally valuable for those who wish to study unrelated degree programmes including Medicine, Computer Science or Maths.

Periods: 4 (Double lesson taught weekly after school. 2 periods for independent prep) Entry Requirements: None Qualifications: Intermediate Certificate in Classical Greek (ICCG) which is equivalent to a half GCSE. Written Exam taken in June.

Core Maths This course focuses on applying maths to real world situations, covering essential skills in data analysis, personal finance, estimation, modelling and statistics. Problem solving is a large part of the course. This course enriches pupils with skills valued by both universities and employers as well as a better understanding of the maths in the headlines and world around us. The course would suit those who would like to focus on Mathematical skills for application in subjects that require looking at data including Biology, Psychology, Geography, Business and Economics. Periods: 8 (6 taught lessons 2 independent preparation allowance) Entry Requirements: Maths GCSE Grade 6. Pupils must not be taking Maths A Level. Qualifications: Core Maths (AQA: Mathematical Studies) This is a level 3 qualification equivalent to an AS level. Grade A is worth 20 UCAS tariff points. 2 written exams taken in June.

EPQ An Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is a self-directed academic project worth 50% of an A-Level. Pupils choose their own topic, with guidance from a one-to-one tutor. There are four types of project but most pupils at St Peter's select a Dissertation (where they debate a question, based on a foundation of academic research) or an Artefact (where they use research to create something for a specific client brief) All pupils gain useful academic skills like referencing, long-term project management, presentations and research skills. These, alongside a focus on critical thinking, are highly valued by universities. In an average week, a pupil will have a lecture on a particular aspect of the EPQ process, a one-to-one meeting with their EPQ tutor, and the rest of their time will be spent exploring their topic. The total number of guided learning hours is 120; 100 of which are completed independently. Periods: 4 (1 weekly lecture, 1 weekly mentor meeting, 2 personal preparation allowance) Entry Requirements: None Qualifications: EPQ - This is an AS Level qualification. Up to 28 points depending on your grade. Please note this course runs from January L6th until December U6th.

English Speaking Board: Certificate in Speech This course focuses on developing confident, clear communicators. There are four core sections: a prepared talk (on a topic of interest or for employability), speaking by heart (memorising poetry or prose), reading to listeners and listening and responding (pupils are expected to ask questions and contribute to group discussions). This course builds skills in performance, communication and confidence. Periods: 2 Entry Requirements: English Language grade 6 or LAMDA qualifications / Debating Club attendance Qualifications: Level 3 certificate. A distinction gains 30 points.

English Speaking Board: Professional Presentation Build skills in structuring, delivering and engaging audiences with talks. The course focuses on both verbal and non-verbal cues, researching on current issues and interpreting texts. This course runs for one term only and may be of interest to those who plan to take an EPQ from January. The pupils prepare for one 25 minute assessment which includes one 10-15 minute presentation on a professional topic, followed by 5-10 minutes of Q&A on their presentation. Periods: 4 (For one term only.) Entry Requirements: None Qualifications: Certificate of completion but no UCAS points

iDEA – Inspiring Digital Enterprise Award What is iDEA? iDEA (Inspiring Digital Enterprise Award) is an internationally recognised program that helps you develop digital, enterprise and employability skills through short online modules called badges. It is often described as the digital equivalent of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, offering Bronze, Silver and Gold levels. How It Works - Complete interactive online modules to earn badges and points. - Earn 250 points for Bronze, with more needed for Silver and Gold. - Build a Record of Achievement to showcase your progress. Badge Categories - Citizen – online safety, digital ethics, awareness. - Worker – AI, workplace tools, digital research, data skills. - Maker – web design, VR, animation, video editing. - Entrepreneur – business innovation, blockchain, money management. - Gamer – game design and gamification. Why Choose iDEA? - Strengthens UCAS personal statements, CVs and interview answers. - Builds future‑ready digital and enterprise skills valued by universities and employers. - Lets you set your own pace and choose modules that match your interests. - Backed by industry experts and real‑world partners such as Salesforce and Intel. - Over 2 million badges earned worldwide — proven impact and quality.

iDEA – Inspiring Digital Enterprise Award (cont.) Periods: 2 (This could be studied for one term or all year.) Entry Requirements: None Qualifications: iDEA Bronze, Silver and Gold awards. Bronze award could be achieved in a term, Silver would be achieved within a year. With further independent study, pupils could achieve the gold.

St Peter’s Personal Finance Course Learn how to plan your finances for every stage of life, understand financial options and how to build lifelong financial resilience. Pupils can develop a greater understanding of how to make the best financial choices from student loans to pension savings. This course is open to all pupils and skills gained would be useful for interviews and UCAS statements. Periods: 4 (For one term only.) Entry Requirements: None. Ideally you would bring your own device to lessons.

Artificial Intelligence Unlock the world of artificial intelligence with a dynamic, hands-on course. This programme introduces pupils to the core ideas behind modern AI, from machine learning and neural networks to data literacy and real world applications. Explore how AI powers everyday tools, experiment with beginner friendly modelling platforms, and discover the creativity behind generative technologies. Alongside practical skills, the course builds critical awareness of ethics, bias, and responsible innovation—essential knowledge for anyone growing up in an AI shaped world. Through interactive lessons, debates, and a final project, pupils gain the confidence to understand, question, and design intelligent systems. Periods: 2 Entry Requirements: None

Astronomy Pupils will explore some of the most exciting ideas in modern science, developing a deeper understanding of the universe, while building skills that complement and often extend beyond A Level STEM subjects. The course offers a broad introduction to Astronomy, covering topics such as exoplanets and the search for life, measuring the cosmos, the Big Bang and the evolution of the universe, and how telescopes gather data. Pupils will also look at the latest discoveries from modern space missions and what they reveal about our solar system and beyond. Although this course does not lead to a formal qualification, Pupils may work towards additional accreditations and take part in national competitions, including the British Astronomy and Astrophysics Olympiad (BAAO). These experiences strengthen scientific thinking and look impressive on university applications, particularly for physics, engineering, and Natural Sciences. Periods: 4 (3 taught, 1 independent study) Entry Requirements: GCSE science grade 6, Maths grade 5

DT / Art / Music A Level Preparation This option provides pupils already taking these A Levels with additional self-guided time in the subject department for the independent preparation required for these A Level courses. Pupils who wish to take other options from the Super-Curricular Programme do not have to include these periods in their 8 period allowance. Periods: 2 per A Level subject. Entry Requirements: Studying A Level DT, Art or Music.

Electronic Music Explore a wide range of techniques involved in sound design and use this to develop your next masterpiece. We will study the maths and physics of sound, including basic Fourier analysis, harmonics and Formant frequencies. We will manipulate these by studying and using additive, subtractive and FM synthesis and more advanced techniques such as wave tables and modulation. You will develop skills in designing modular synthesisers and creating your own patches for advanced open-source synthesisers such as Surge XT. Once these are developed, we will explore making complete music tracks in a Digital Audio Workstation and explore techniques used in music production. For an example of the things we will get up to see: Periods: 2 Entry Requirements: An interest about how Physics, Maths and Music link together is essential. Curiosity and creativity are essential. A basic knowledge of musical scales would be an advantage. Access to a decent windows laptop (with a dedicated graphics card) would be an advantage.

Film Studies The St Peter’s Film Studies course aims to inspire pupils’ vivid imaginations, giving them the opportunity to watch and critique various cinematic releases, both old and new, and discover the stunning visual effects and cinematography that turns something mundane into something spectacular. The course also focuses on the filming process itself, with pupils being encouraged to explore a range of factors, such as the power of lighting, sound and setting, to name but a few. It is also key that pupils are able to visualise, storyboard and ‘scale-up’ their designs, and this is something we will focus on during the pre-production stage of the course. In contrast, the editing process (during post-production) allows pupils to finalise their ‘message’, mood and aesthetic, to truly captivate the viewer. This course may appeal to those pupils who are interested in business studies and the advertising involved in marketing a product; pupils who wish to create a show-reel for drama school; those who strive to develop their passion for photography, art or design; future, aspiring filmmakers; or those simply wishing to see what goes on behind the lens of a camera. The course aims to equip pupils with the skills in which to stand out in this ever-competitive world. Periods: 4 Entry Requirements: None

Graded Musical Instruments Pupils who have 1:1 music lessons either in or out of school may continue with their lessons as part of their Super-Curricular Programme allowance. Pupils may study more than one instrument and use the allowance for each. Pupils who wish to take other options from the Super-Curricular Programme do not have to include these periods in their 8 period allowance. Periods: Grades 1-8: 2 periods (1 taught lesson and 1 independent prep) Diploma: 4 periods (1 taught and 3 independent prep) Entry Requirements: Enrolled in a graded musical instrument

LAMDA Pupils who are enrolled in the LAMDA programme, either in or out school, may use their lesson and one prep lesson as part of their Super-Curricular Programme allowance. This is a popular option with our A Level pupils and does result in UCAS Tariff points (Distinction at Grade 8 equals 30 points). Periods: 2 (1 taught lesson and 1 independent prep lesson) Entry Requirements: Enrolled in a LAMDA course either in or out of school.

MOOC Skills Pathway MOOCS (Massive Open Online Courses) offer the chance to study almost any subject in self-paced programmes from renowned universities and experts around the world. This is an excellent option for those looking to improve their skills or knowledge in specific subjects not already provided as part of the Super-Curricular Programme. Pupils will be provided with guidance on MOOCS available to them and will be required to evidence their learning in a 1:1 meeting each half term. Periods: Up to 4 (this is an independent study allowance) Entry Requirements: None

MFL Speaking Lessons This option offers pupils an allowance for their 1:1 lesson with a Language Assistant to support language acquisition for the Speaking Exam. Pupils who wish to take other options from the Super-Curricular Programme do not have to include these periods in their 8 period allowance. Periods: 1 Entry Requirements: Studying A Level language

Study Skills An opportunity to brush up your skills as you move from GCSE to A Level study. It acts as a helpful foundation for any A Level pupil. This course will cover topics including note taking, research skills and revision techniques. The course will also cover the basics for using technology to support your studies. This course will support pupils in finding the most effective way to use their time when making notes and then revising both with and without technology. Periods: 1 (One term only.) Entry Requirements: None

St Peter's Enterprise Course Keen to hone your entrepreneurial skills? Then this course is for you! Work as a team to complete tasks and then build your own small business proposal. This course would suit those pupils studying Business or Economics A Level. This course has been created based on pupil feedback and is open to all A Level pupils interested in learning all about what being an entrepreneur is like. It will also offer a great opportunity to work as a team, as well as gain new skills. Periods: 4 (One term only.) Entry Requirements: Interest in being an entrepreneur!

The Big Questions: Philosophy Beyond the Syllabus This course explores questions about knowledge, personal identity, consciousness, free will, and morality, using contemporary debates, thought experiments, and real-world examples. Pupils will learn about famous philosophers and their impact on these ideas, develop independent arguments, and practice discussing and debating complex questions. The course culminates in an essay competition, giving pupils the chance to present their own philosophical ideas. This might suit: Those taking the A Level in Philosophy, Ethics, and Theology who want to push further right from the start, or pupils considering philosophy, politics, economics (PPE), law, or other humanities courses at university. Periods: 2 (One term only.) Entry Requirements: For pupils curious about philosophy who are ready to think, discuss, and debate beyond the A Level syllabus

Virtual Work Experience Pupils will be supported to explore the varied online work experience opportunities available. Online work experience is offered by a variety of businesses in just about any sector. Work experience opportunities are self-paced so can be completed around other commitments each week. Pupils will be provided with guidance on the opportunities available to them and will be required to evidence the work experience completed and their learning from this in a 1:1 meeting each half term. Periods: Up to 4 Entry Requirements: None

Work Experience (In Person) Pupils may have secured themselves work experience locally, this can be included as part of the Super-Curricular Programme, but pupils will also be expected to keep a log of their hours that is reviewed with a tutor each half term. Previously, pupils have sought work experience to support applications for Medicine at university. Periods: Up to 4 (if further time is required, please speak to Mrs McAleese) Entry Requirements: None

Programmed Gym Sessions Complete two sessions in the school gym following the programme set up by the Strength and Conditioning Coach or Pathway Programme Coach. This is an excellent change for pupils to utilise the on-site athletic facilities to pursue their specific goals in a supportive environment. Periods: 2 Entry Requirements: None

Athlete Pathway Support Provision Pupils taking part in a sport pathway beyond the school co-curricular programme will be given time as part of their Super-Curricular Programme allowance. They will be assigned a member of staff who will provide oversight of their sporting commitment which they need to balance alongside their studies. Periods: 4 Entry Requirements: Pupils need to be part of a recognised governing body pathway. To confirm that you qualify for this course, please speak to Mr McTurk and Mrs McAleese.

Level 3 Sports Leader Qualification For those interested in learning how to coach sessions, officiate matches and lead through sport. The Level 3 Sports Leader qualification empowers pupils to build essential life and employability skills through sport and physical activity. Learners consistently report increased confidence, resilience, and improvements to their physical and mental wellbeing. This course uses sport as a powerful vehicle for personal development, enabling learners to plan, lead, and deliver meaningful activities that benefit their schools and wider communities. The Level 3 Qualification in Sports Leadership is a nationally recognised qualification that leads to 16 UCAS points. Modules include: 1.Leadership Skills 2.Planning, leading and evaluating a sport / physical activity 3.Planning, leading and evaluating a progressive series of inclusive sport/activity sessions Periods: 6 (4 periods with staff / coaching others and 2 periods for preparing to coach sessions) Entry Requirements: None

Volunteering Whether you are working towards your Gold DofE qualification, hoping to apply for Medicine / teaching degrees or simply want to give back to the local or school community, this is a great opportunity to improve your skills and gain relevant experience. There are two options for volunteering: 1 – You have found a voluntary role in the local community either during your free periods or after school. 2 – You would like to volunteer in school, options include: Sport clubs or lessons with pupils at our Junior School (ages 2-11) Co-curricular clubs (incl. drama, debating, chess) at our Junior School. Breakfast or after school clubs for pupils aged 2-13. Academic mentoring with pupils up to GCSE.

Periods: Up to 4 periods recommended Entry Requirements: None