William Hulme 2013 (may take a short time to load)

Sixth Form Prospectus

Welcome to William Hulme’s Sixth Form from Mr P Mulholland - Principal William Hulme’s Grammar School has provided a high quality education for all of its students since its doors opened in 1887. 120 years later the school took the exciting step of becoming a United Learning Trust Academy and since then all of our students have enjoyed the benefits of learning in state-of-the-art facilities whilst being part of a school with a proud history of academic excellence.

Our curriculum is designed to bring out ‘the best in everyone’ and emphasises core subjects such as Maths, English and Science (one of our Specialist areas) with a range of options that can be tailored to suit all our students’ needs. Similarly our pastoral care system focuses on encouraging and supporting individuals in a safe and disciplined environment.

We have an enviable reputation for promoting learning beyond the classroom thanks to our Combined Cadet Force and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme, as well as a wide range of sports, music and drama activities. We also have a variety of clubs and societies. Our House system enables our students to take part in and enjoy activities in the spirit of healthy competition and friendship.

We are a multi-cultural community and value highly the harmony, tolerance and understanding that we promote. This is enhanced by our Languages Specialism and, as an International School, we provide exciting opportunities and links for our students all around the world.

William Hulme’s is committed to building on the success we have achieved so far. We welcome involvement from many different members of the local community such as the Parents’ Association and the Old Hulmeians’ Association and we are part of the United Learning group that is committed to bringing out ‘the best in everyone’. Together we can continue to be a school of which students, teachers, parents, governors and the local community can be proud.

Peter Mulholland Principal

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Welcome from Mr B A Howarth - Head of Sixth Form We are delighted that you are considering the Sixth Form at William Hulme’s Grammar School! We believe that our Sixth Form offers a memorable educational experience that will help you achieve your goals. We provide a professional learning environment that combines traditional academic values with modern facilities and new opportunities.

We value each and every one of our Sixth Formers and pride ourselves on getting to know all our students individually.

With over 200 students we have the optimum numbers to offer a broad range of academic opportunities and provide a high standard of education. The Sixth Form is, nevertheless, small enough numerically for every student to be known, respected and supported as an individual. Our students are a lively and diverse group of people. All new students quickly become integrated into the school community and make strong, lasting friendships.

Life here is about more than just academic success. Our students develop a range of skills and personal qualities through participation in the school’s sporting programme and enrichment activities. There are some exciting opportunities here to take part in a broad range of extra-curricular activities and extend cultural, linguistic and musical interests.

We recognise that the transition to Sixth Form life and then University can be a challenging time. We place great emphasis on forming a working partnership with students, parents and teachers and aim to form a constructive relationship based on trust, encouragement and support.

We look forward to welcoming you to the Sixth Form next September, and to working with you over the next two years.

Ben Howarth Head of Sixth Form

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Curriculum A-Levels The curriculum in our Sixth Form is designed to allow you to choose from a wide range of subjects. This can promote diversity in terms of your subject selections or allow you to specialise. Flexibility is the great strength of our academic provision We expect most of our Sixth Formers to follow a programme starting with four AS subjects in Year 12 and continuing with three or four of these subjects at A2 level in Year 13. Sixth Form students are also expected to broaden their learning by opting for one of General Studies, the Extended Project Qualification or AS Critical Thinking.

Subject Choices Overview of courses How do I choose my subjects?

Depending on the number of subjects you wish to study, we would usually expect you to choose four subjects, one from each option block. Occasionally a fifth subject may be chosen after discussion with the Head of Sixth Form.

You will find details about the option blocks further on in the Prospectus and on the school’s website.

For popular subjects, we are able to offer more than one set, which widens the range of combinations available.

If your ideal combination of subjects does not fit our option blocks, please discuss this with the Head of Sixth Form or a senior teacher when you come for your course discussion in January. If it is not possible to accommodate your combination of subjects we will make every effort to assist and advise you.

When do I choose my subjects?

To help us plan for the next academic year we ask all applicants to make provisional subject choices on their application forms, which should be submitted by the closing date in January.

Making the right choices

You are good at Every A-Level course has its own minimum GCSE grade (please see minimum grade page).

You enjoy Subject enjoyment, interest, involvement and examination success go hand in hand. It is difficult to motivate yourself to do well if you do not enjoy the subjects you are studying.

You may need for a certain career or university course Although certain subjects may be very ‘useful’, anything less than a C grade in even the most useful subject loses its value very rapidly.

At the provisional choices stage you are not making any final decisions, and you may change your mind later on. We cannot guarantee to accommodate changes of subject but we will always do our best to help and advise you.

In selecting your subjects please remember that you should choose subjects which:

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Student support

Academic support

Effective pastoral care should be immediate, personalised and sustained.

We provide a wide range of academic support to ensure that students are making the most of their time in the Sixth Form. At William Hulme’s you can expect to be in classes that are smaller than Sixth Form colleges, thus getting plenty of support from subject teachers. In addition to this, most subjects provide after school support sessions to enhance learning.

We regard ensuring our students’ happiness and well-being as our most important responsibility. The role of the Form Tutor is absolutely central in this. Normally, students see their tutor twice daily at registration.

Tutors provide advice, encouragement and support on a wide range of issues. Mr Howarth (Head of Sixth Form) and Miss Smith (Deputy Head of Sixth Form), both work closely with Form Tutors and Progression Tutors to ensure that students maximise the opportunities available to make the most of their talents and realise their ambitions.

A-Level study A-Levels are academic qualifications that require a rigorous approach no matter where they are taken. At William Hulme’s Grammar School, you will be expected to commit to your studies both in and out of the classroom.

Each AS Level subject is allocated 9 hours of teaching time over a two week period, with the number of hours rising to 10 at A2 Level. In addition to contact time, you will be expected to work during private study periods in the Sixth Form Common Room, the Learning Resource Centre or other free classrooms.

Independent learning is a key ingredient to success at A-Level, and you will be set challenging homework tasks designed to supplement and extend the learning that takes place in the classroom. If you want to be a successful A-Level student, you should expect to complete one hour of private study for every hour spent in the classroom for each subject.

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Alongside support from teaching staff, we run an Academic Mentoring scheme that allows Sixth Form students to work with fellow Sixth Formers in a less formal setting.

Academic monitoring We take our responsibility of providing the best educational experience for our Sixth Formers very seriously, and part of that is monitoring the academic performance of individual students. This is done regularly and involves collaboration with teaching staff and, where necessary, parents or carers. As well as Form Tutors, there are four Progression Tutors in the Sixth Form with specific responsibility for providing academic support for students. We do all this in an encouraging and supportive atmosphere that is designed to get the best out of our students.

Enrichment and Extra-Curricular Sixth Formers are role models for the rest of the school. Our focus is on developing well - rounded individuals as well as achieving academic results, so we encourage all our students to take part in a range of activities which helps them grow into confident, independent young adults.

Curriculum enrichment As well as taking 4 AS and 3 A2 subjects, we expect Sixth Formers to opt for one of three enrichment opportunities.

• The Extended Project Qualification is a guided learning qualification that is highly regarded by universities. Students complete a 5000 word project on a topic of their own choice.

• AS/A2 General Studies is an opportunity for Sixth Form students to impress universities with their general knowledge and application of academic skills.

• AS Critical Thinking is a qualification that requires students to look at the validity of arguments and is particularly useful for students applying to Oxbridge or those applying for courses such as Law.

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Prefects / leadership

D of E

All Sixth Form students are invited to apply for the positions of Heads of School and Prefects.

This is a fantastic opportunity for students to develop leadership and other essential skills. Heads of School and Prefects are given significant responsibility within the school and only those with initiative, commitment and creativity need apply!

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award aims to provide for young people an enjoyable, challenging and rewarding programme of personal development, which is of the highest quality and challenges each enrolled student fully. We are able to offer students the opportunity to achieve their Bronze, Silver or Gold Awards.

Peer mentoring

Bar Mock Trial

Sixth Form students have the chance to develop and demonstrate so called soft skills such as empathy and patience through our peer mentoring programme. This enables Sixth Formers to give something back to the school and have a real impact on the lives of our younger pupils.

Every year, Sixth Form students from William Hulme’s take part in the Bar Mock Trial. This is a competition held at the Crown Courts in central Manchester. During the competition, students take on a variety of roles in a mock trial performed in front of a real judge. In the weeks prior to the competition, practising barristers come in to school to offer support and advice to participants.

In class support As we are a 3 - 18 school, we are very lucky to have a Primary Phase on site that enables Sixth Formers to offer in class support to primary teachers. Furthermore, we also run a reading support scheme, whereby Sixth Formers help develop the reading skills of Year 7 transition pupils.

Sport There are many sporting opportunities in the Sixth Form. Alongside House competitions in games, there are numerous sports teams that compete against other schools and colleges. If you really love your sport, you can take part in the staff versus student sports that are on offer on a Friday after school.

Clubs and societies

Sixth Form facilities

Below are some of the activities currently available that Sixth Formers can become involved with:

The Sixth Form Common Room is a friendly, welcoming place to be. It comprises a large, newly refurbished room with recreational facilities.

The Common Room is located in the heart of the school community and is light and spacious. It is the focal point for social activity and is a place where students can either work or relax and chat to friends. The atmosphere is good humoured and dynamic. Sixth Formers also have access to the wider resources of the school. These include a well-stocked Learning Resource Centre and state-of-the-art ICT equipment, including an interactive whiteboard in every classroom which is used to enhance teaching and learning.

Amnesty International

Duke of Edinburgh

Art Club

Eco Warriors

Astronomy

Football

Badminton

French for Fun

Biology Support

German for Fun

CCF / RAF

History Homework Club

Compositions / Music Technology

Jazz Band

Chemistry Support

Muslim Prayers

Chess

Netball

Community Languages

Physics Support

Concert Band

Psychology Support

Critical Thinking

Spanish for Fun

Cross Country

Urdu

Debating Club

Weights

Charities William Hulme’s has played an important role in Manchester life for over 100 years and we are proud to continue this tradition through fundraising, work experience and welcoming community groups to the academy. Throughout the year, our students raise thousands of pounds for local charities.

Students also have access to a vast amount of literature and relevant web sites to help them with their University applications. There is a great deal of information about Gap Year opportunities. Experienced tutors can offer advice and support through the University application process.

We encourage all students to stay fit while they are studying. On a weekly basis all students take part in games and fitness activities. We have something to suit everyone, including a sports centre and the school’s well equipped gym. Furthermore, there are 10 acres of sports fields on site, including all weather pitches.

Combined Cadet Force This is one of our most popular activities. The Army and RAF sections are both voluntary and membership is open to all students. A field day is held every term and each section attends two camps in the Easter and Summer holidays.

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Sixth Form laptops

Achievements

Every Sixth Form student will have the opportunity to purchase his or her own laptop through the school. We are able to offer high quality laptops at a very favourable price with the option of an interest free repayment deal over the course of 2 years. The laptops will provide Sixth Form students with full access to the school’s wireless network and enable them to work independently at home and in school.

If you choose to come to William Hulme’s, you will be working alongside a team of teachers and students who aspire to achieve the best. We are proud of the achievements of our young adults, which, as you can see below, compare favourably with many other Sixth Form schools and colleges.

We regard this as an extremely important development in the Sixth Form and one that few other institutions can offer. The development of independent learners plays a significant role in academic success and prepares students for the rigours and demands of Higher Education and beyond.

In addition to this exciting opportunity, there are also 24 laptops available to Sixth Form students in the Sixth Form Common Room. These laptops are stored securely and may be signed out by students, but they must remain in school.

A-Level Results 2012 44% A* - B Grades 72% A* - C Grades 98% A* - E Grades

League tables Each year the DfE produces a league table of A-Level grades for all Sixth Form institutions, measuring them on the A-Level grades achieved by their students, known as the Average Points Per Student (APS - A-Level Grades).

Below is a table showing the APS achieved at A-Level across schools and colleges in Manchester for 2012: William Hulme’s Grammar School King David High School Loreto College St Bede’s College Parrs Wood High School Xaverian College Chethams School of Music Abbey College Whalley Range High School Manchester College

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Source: DfE Performance Tables

864.1 825.3 803.9 800.4 794.7 727.6 716.9 619.5 569.9 546.9

Destination of leavers 2012 The vast majority of our Sixth Form students go on to study in Higher Education. The table below shows you where our 2012 Leavers went and the courses they chose: INSTITUTION Bournemouth University BPP University College of Professional Studies Limited University of Birmingham University of Birmingham University of Bolton University of Bradford University of Bradford University of Bradford University of Central Lancashire University of Central Lancashire University of Chester Coventry University University of Hong Kong University of Huddersfield University of Hull Keele University Keele University University of Leeds University of Leicester University of Liverpool Liverpool John Moores University Liverpool John Moores University Liverpool John Moores University Liverpool John Moores University Manchester Metropolitan University Manchester Metropolitan University Manchester Metropolitan University Manchester Metropolitan University

COURSE Engineering Law Archaeology and Ancient History Classical Literature and Civilisation Psychology Pharmacy Economics with International Relations Psychology Environmental Hazards: Science, Policy & Management TESOL and Modern Languages Religious Studies Accounting and Finance Comparitive Literature/Music/ Languages Pharmacy Politics and International Relations Actuarial Science Criminology and Sociology International Relations Medical Biochemistry Engineering Foundation Applied Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences Building Surveying Sociology Pharmacy Law Social Care Biomedical Science Mathematics

Manchester Metropolitan University Manchester Metropolitan University Manchester Metropolitan University Manchester Metropolitan University Manchester Metropolitan University University of Manchester University of Manchester University of Manchester University of Manchester University of Manchester University of Manchester University of Manchester University of Manchester Oxford University University of Salford University of Salford University of Salford University of Salford University of Salford University of Salford University of Salford University of Salford University of Salford Sheffield Hallam University Sheffield Hallam University University of Sheffield University of Sheffield St George’s, University of London Stockport College Stockport College University of Westminster University of Wolverhampton University of York

Business Psychology of Sport and Exercise Early Years and Childhood Studies Biology (Foundation) Economics/International Business Law with Politics Mathematics Law Engineering with an Integrated Foundation Year Psychology Pharmacy Accounting and Economics Accounting and Finance Philosophy, Politics and Economics Sport Rehabilitation Human Biology and Infectious Diseases Psychology Criminology and Sociology Pharmaceutical Science Law International Relations and Politics Sports Science Contemporary Military and International History Business Economics Architecture and Environmental Design Civil and Structural Engineering Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science Biomedical Science Childhood Studies Foundation Art & Design Business Management Business Management Electronic Engineering with Business Management

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Planning beyond Sixth Form The vast majority of our students progress onto university courses. The school has good links with professional bodies and Higher Education establishments to help students make the right choices for the future.

Our curriculum allows for flexibility in subject choice, and whilst some students may select complementary subjects (e.g. Maths, Physics, Chemistry and Biology), others may wish to mix complementary and contrasting disciplines (e.g. Physics, Maths, French and Geography). Selecting a contrasting subject can be beneficial in that it may demonstrate a wide range of skills and abilities to a potential university or employer.

It is worth thinking ahead to what you might want to study at university. Make sure that your subject combination will enable you to meet the requirements of the degree courses in which you are interested.

We provide a full programme of support for students who apply to Higher Education institutions through UCAS, including specialist advice from staff within school and visiting speakers. We are able to provide interview practice for all students should this be required, but in particular those who are applying for courses such as medicine and dentistry.

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William Hulme’s also enjoys strong links with Oxbridge colleges, and we are able to organise trips outside of formal open days, thus allowing students to see colleges in their true light.

As well as providing advice on the UCAS application process, we offer a range of activities and events to highlight employment opportunities and enhance employability skills, including an individual careers interview for each Sixth Former.

Welcome to the Old Hulmeians The Old Hulmeians’ Association (OHA) is a committee of volunteers which helps all former pupils and staff of William Hulme’s Grammar School reconnect. They meet regularly to organise annual events including an Annual Dinner every June at the school.

The current annual fee is £15 and offers the following benefits: • An annual, high quality, printed newsletter • Sports sections such as golf and crosscountry running (lacrosse is available at Brooklands Sports Club, Sale) • Use of the OH Memorial Ground playing fields in Whalley Range and the Whalley Range Cricket Club facilities

Warren Moore was Head Boy in 2009/10.

Below are his reflections on his experience in the Sixth Form.

Whether teaching in the classroom or giving up their free time for extra-curricular activities, I found the staff to be extremely supportive during my time at WHGS. I studied Maths, Further Maths, Classics and Physics in the Sixth Form – I even managed to get an extra AS in Latin in my spare time, with my Classics teacher providing me with as much help and guidance as I needed.

I tried to get involved with as much as I could, and playing an instrument was a great place to start, allowing me to join both the Concert and Jazz Bands, and providing the opportunity to play at high-profile events such as the MEN Christmas Carol Service at Manchester Cathedral each year.

I was also the senior cadet in the Combined Cadet Force, participated in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Bronze, Silver and Gold awards, and was successful in applying for Head Boy at WHGS, helping to raise thousands of pounds for St. Anne’s Hospice and Henshaws Society for Blind People.

I had a real interest in Maths, and the Maths Department definitely pushed me to read around the subject and broaden my knowledge. They recommended books for me to read, as well as extra courses I could take part in which would really enhance my UCAS form when I came to apply to university.

I have very recently completed my second year of a Master’s degree in Maths at the University of Warwick, and alongside my studies, I also run a small company specialising in website design and development.

I am extremely grateful for all the time and effort the staff at WHGS put in to help me achieve my goals and more.

Entry requirements Entry into the Sixth Form requires six passes at GCSE level, which should be Grade C or above including English Language and Mathematics. Four of these should be at least a B grade. You must have at least a GCSE grade B in a subject if you would like to continue it at Advanced Level, except Mathematics which requires a grade A. Please refer to the list showing details of individual course requirements.

In September 2014, there will be 120 places available overall in Year 12.

All students, both internal and external, are required to complete an application form, which can be collected from the school or downloaded from our website.

Internal candidates Students who are already on roll at William Hulme’s are entitled to transfer into the Sixth Form provided that they meet the minimum standards for entry. All students will be offered a course discussion to help them to make the right choices.

Internal transfer forms should be returned to the Registrar in the school office before 10th January 2014 in order to help us determine the number of places available for external candidates. Transfer forms received after this date will still be accepted, but subject choices may be more limited because some courses may already be full. Offers of places will be conditional upon minimum entry requirements being achieved.

Those candidates whose predicted GCSE grades meet the minimum level required will be offered a course discussion. Offers of places will be conditional upon minimum entry requirements being achieved. In the event that a particular course is oversubscribed, places will be allocated according to the admissions criteria agreed with the DfE. Under the School Standards and Framework Act 1998, parents or students have the right to appeal to an independent appeals panel against the decision of an admissions authority not to offer a place at a particular school.

Late applications A limited number of places may become available in late August 2014.

Please contact the Registrar then if you are still looking for a place in the Sixth Form after 21st August 2014.

Important dates Options/Open evening

14th November 2013

Closing date for forms to be submitted

10th January 2014

Course discussions

Spring term 2014

Taster Days

July 2014

Conditional offer letters

Spring term 2014

GCSE results day

Thursday, 21st August 2014

External candidates Students who do not yet attend William Hulme’s should submit an external application form as soon as possible. The closing date for receipt of these is 10th January 2014. However late applications will be considered if places are still available, although subject choices may be limited because some courses may already be full.

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Diary of events

Option Blocks – AS Level 2013/2014 These are the Option Blocks for students beginning AS courses in September 2014. You must choose one subject from each Option Block.

Timetable for S ixth Form provision al offers 2014 Course discuss

ions External candida tes

Mop up course discussions External candida tes

Course discuss ions

Internal Y11s

All provisional offers sent External and int ernal deadline for acce ptance of provisional offe rs

Changes to cour se choices

January 2014

January 2014

January 2014 January 2014

Week commencin g 3rd February 2014 Friday, 21st Febr uary 2014 4.00p m latest

To be notified in writing before Friday, 21st Febr uary 2014 Friday, 25th Ap ril 2014

Notification by school of subject choice being unavailabl e GCSE results published Thursday, 21st August 2014 Deadline for no tifying WHGS of Fr ida y, 22nd August 20 GCSE results 14 12 noon latest Term begins Y12 induction Wednesday, 3rd September 2014

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Block 1

Block 2

Block 3

Block 4

Biology Chemistry Design German History Physics Sociology Sports Science

Further Maths Maths Psychology Religious Studies Spanish Theatre Studies

Chemistry Economics English Literature Geography Maths Music Psychology

Art Biology Business Studies English Language French Maths Politics Psychology

Please note that these Option Blocks may be subject to change

Minimum requirements for each subject Art and Design

GCSE Art Grade B or above desirable

Physics

Biology

GCSE Grades AB or above required in Core Science and Additional Science or GCSE Grades AB or above in Biology and at least one other science if taking three separate sciences at GCSE

GCSE Grades AB or above required in Core Science and Additional Science or GCSE Grades AB or above in Physics and at least one other science if taking three separate sciences at GCSE

Politics

-

Business Studies

-

Psychology

GCSE Grade C or above in Core Science

Chemistry

GCSE Grades AB or above required in Core Science and Additional Science or GCSE Grades AB or above in Chemistry and at least one other science if taking three separate sciences at GCSE

Religious Studies

-

Sociology

-

Spanish

GCSE Grade B or above required

Classical Civilisation

-

Critical Thinking

-

Design and Technology

GCSE Grade B or above in one of the Design Technology subject areas

Drama and Theatre Studies

Extra-curricular drama participation e.g. school play desirable

Economics

GCSE Grade B or above in Mathematics

English Language

GCSE Grade B or above required

English Literature

GCSE Grade B or above required

French

GCSE Grade B or above required

Further Maths

GCSE Grade A or A* in Mathematics

General Studies

-

Geography

GCSE Geography useful but not essential

German

GCSE Grade B or above required

History

GCSE History useful but not essential

Mathematics

GCSE Grade A or above required

Music

GCSE Music or equivalent

Physical Education

GCSE Grade B or above in Core Science or Sports Science

Subjects will be offered subject to demand

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Name Josh Chisambo – Head Boy September 2012/13 Previous School William Hulme’s Grammar School Studying AS Business Studies, Biology, Sports Science and Psychology Career Aspirations Sports Psychologist, Professional Footballer, Physiotherapist or Actor Why I chose WHGS I chose to come to WHGS because I’ve been here since Year 7 and I’ve enjoyed myself thoroughly as the teachers here care for the students both academically and personally.

The school also offers a wide range of extra-curricular activities from debating to football.

Course Index

Course Index

Art Biology Business Studies Chemistry Critical Thinking Design Technology Drama & Theatre Studies Economics English Language English Literature French General Studies Geography German Government and Politics History Mathematics Music Physical Education Physics Psychology Religious Studies Sociology Spanish

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ART

BIOLOGY

What will I study?

The main purpose of any course in art, craft and design is to develop your ability to appreciate the visual world, respond in a personal and creative way and perhaps even contribute for the benefit of everyone.

What will I study?

The format for the AQA A-Level Biology course comprises nine one hour periods per two weekly cycle presented by four specialist Biologists in a department consisting of two fully equipped laboratories. There is a well-stocked departmental library for sixth form research purposes.

Additionally there is access to computers and the internet.

Which exam board?

AQA (www.aqa.org.uk)

The skills you develop will be varied. Among them, you will develop a working knowledge of materials, practices and technology within art. You will develop the skills to interpret and convey your ideas and feelings using art, craft and design. You will develop your imaginative and creative powers and your experimental, analytical and documenting skills. You will also develop a specialist vocabulary and the knowledge and understanding of the place of art, craft and design in history and in contemporary society.

Additional information This course is suitable for: • Students who wish to undertake further studies in art, craft and design, usually at art college or further education.

• Students who are looking to take up careers for which an art background is relevant.

These might include advertising, publishing, architecture, museums, theatre or art gallery work.

• Students who have an interest in and aptitude for the subject, but who do not intend to take the subject beyond AS or A level.

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Which exam board?

AQA (www.aqa.org.uk)

The work is covered in 6 units, two of which are coursework.

Year 12 AS Level Unit 1 – Biology and disease.

Unit 2 – The variety of living organisms Unit 3 – Investigative and practical skills Year 13 A2 Level Unit 4 – Populations and environment Unit 5 – Control in cells and organisms Unit 6 – Investigative and practical skills.

Additional information Students who wish to study medicine, dentistry, veterinary science, biochemistry, agriculture, forestry, pharmacy, microbiology and marine biology (to suggest just a few!) to a higher level will find Biology ‘A’ level usually specified as an entrance requirement.

GCE BUSINESS STUDIES

GCE CHEMISTRY

What will I study?

Unit 1 – Planning and Financing a Business This module provides students with an introduction to the scope of Business Studies within the context of starting a new business. Students will develop an understanding of the range of activities involved in setting up a small business. These include; how to research a market, how to protect a business idea, how to choose the right legal structure, possible sources of finance, how to decide where to locate a business and how to recruit employees.

What will I study?

In the first year there are three learning units. In Unit 1 you’ll cover foundation subjects like atomic structure, periodicity and organic chemistry. Then in Unit 2 you’ll work up to topics like kinetics, alkenes and analytical techniques. Unit 3 happens throughout the year and is dedicated to investigative and practical skills. It’s ‘How Science Works’.

Year two follows a similar format. Unit 4 introduces you to 17 topics, including equilibria, polymers and aromatic chemistry. Unit 5 covers thermodynamics, energetics and inorganic chemistry. And Unit 6 - like Unit 3 - is the practical, hands-on part of second year.

Which exam board?

AQA (www.aqa.org.uk)

Unit 2 – Managing a Business This module focuses on the core theme of improving the effectiveness of a business. Students will learn to calculate and interpret data measuring the effectiveness of a business in four areas; finance, management of people, management of operations and marketing.

Unit 3 – Strategies for Success In this module the focus is on setting objectives, measuring performance and devising strategy. Students will examine a variety of methods of strategic planning that businesses of different types might use to help them achieve their objectives. Financial strategies, operational strategies, human resources strategies and marketing strategies are all considered.

Unit 4 – the Business Environment and Managing Change This unit is synoptic and, as such, draws on all other units of the specification. Students will consider the relationship between businesses and external factors. They will examine how external factors may impact on a business, and the responses they may take. The unit also focuses on themes of leadership and corporate culture, particularly when attempting to manage change successfully. To be successful in this unit of study students must have a good understanding of real businesses.

Which exam board?

AQA (www.aqa.org.uk)

Additional information Who takes this course?

Students with a wide range of interests enjoy the chemistry course.

Whether you want a job in medicine or industry, chemistry is the solid platform upon which careers are built.

What skills will I learn?

The Chemistry A Level course helps students develop a number of skills: • How to assemble data and assess it • How to investigate facts and use deduction • How to put over your point of view fluently • How to work as a team to achieve results Where will success take me?

Chemistry is a great choice of subject for people who want a career in health and clinical professions, such as medicine, nursing, biochemistry, dentistry or forensic science. It will also equip you for a career in industry, for example in the petrochemical or pharmaceutical industries.

Additional information This course is very popular and will give you an insight into how businesses operate. It is excellent preparation for anyone seeking to pursue business related courses in Higher Education and those who may be aiming to run a business of their own.

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GCE CRITICAL THINKING

GCE DESIGN TECHNOLOGY

What will I study?

This qualification seeks to bring together the skills involved in thinking and arguing in a critical and logical way. The aim is to provide candidates with a framework, which can be applied in a practical manner to a range of materials, situations, problems and issues.

What will I study?

Whether you have thought about it or not, Design is part of everyday life. We use millions of products to make our lives easier and it is the role of the Designer to provide solutions to our problems.

Which exam board?

OCR (www.ocr.org.uk)

Critical Thinking is a four unit A-level course: two units at AS and 2 units at A2: Unit 1: Introduction to Critical Thinking The first unit is designed to give candidates an introduction to important skills within Critical Thinking.

Unit 2: Assessing and Developing Argument In the second unit, candidates will be asked to assess the structure of the arguments presented.

Unit 3: Ethical Reasoning and Decision-making The third unit requires candidates to apply skills in the context of the familiar ethical and moral.

Unit 4: Critical Reasoning In the fourth unit, candidates will be asked to analyse the structure of arguments in detail, and to take an overview of larger arguments.

Additional information Critical Thinking skills are of great benefit in preparation for a wide range of careers, including the fields of law, academic research (e.g. in the disciplines of science, arts and humanities), social science, journalism, medicine, business and accounting.

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Which exam board?

AQA (www.aqa.org.uk)

The first year of the GCE course will be spent developing the skills and knowledge necessary to design and make products suitable for the Design Market. You will explore and develop ideas and learn the correct 3D processes needed to create pieces of work. During the second year of the course you will focus on how to build on the skills you have developed and explore your knowledge of production.

• • • • • • • • • • • •

Broad range of materials and components Setting realistic aims and objectives Evaluating design and consumer need Environmental sustainability of products Health and safety issues Computer aided design (CAD) Computer aided manufacture (CAM) Costing Ergonomics and anthropometrics Hand and commercial processing Understanding the Design process Studying Designers and Artists

Additional information Students will gain all the necessary skills to progress on to a degree in Product Design or building a career in a Design based environment.

GCE DRAMA & THEATRE STUDIES

GCE ECONOMICS

What will I study?

Year 1 – AS Level

What will I study?

All areas of macro and microeconomics are covered over the two year course including:

Which exam board?

Edexcel (www.edexcel.com)

Unit 1 - Exploration of Drama and Theatre: This unit explores two contrasting plays through practical workshops. You will keep a log of your learning in the form of a set of Exploration Notes. You will also get the opportunity to go to the theatre and learn how to analyse and review live, professional theatre.

Which exam board?

AQA (www.aqa.org.uk)

Unit 3 – Exploration of Dramatic Performance: You will explore a theme or issue and shape it into an original piece of live theatre. Alongside this you will produce a Supporting Written Evidence Document. You will also write an evaluation of both process and product.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Unit 4 – Theatre Text in Context: You will watch a live performance of a set text, which is specified by the examination board. You will also explore the play during practical workshop as a director.

Additional information Students will gain a combination of the language, theory and skills associated with the subject.

Unit 2 – Theatre Text in Performance You will take part in the performance of a published play, which will be presented to a public audience. You will also perform either a monologue or duologue from a different play, for which you will write a supporting rationale for your choice.

Year 2 – A2 Level

Supply and demand Markets and market failure Public, merit and demerit goods Taxation and public expenditure Market structures Labour markets Inequality Absolute and relative poverty Keynesian and monetarist models Interest rates Inflation Unemployment International trade Exchange rates The European Union Aid and development economics

Additional information In order to succeed in Drama you must have the ability to be energetic, enthusiastic, creative, and analytical. Theory will be based in practice and vice versa, so the ability to evaluate the dramatic potential of yourself and others is a must. Knowledge of performance styles, playwrights and practitioners is desirable though not essential. You will need lots of drive, confidence, energy and commitment for this subject.

Please be aware that in preparation for performance exams, you will be required to take part in Lunchtime and/or after school rehearsals in place of private revision and study.

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GCE ENGLISH LANGUAGE

GCE ENGLISH LITERATURE

What will I study?

At AS Level, this specification will introduce candidates to advanced language study and develop their ability to write for a variety of specific audiences and purposes. It introduces key concepts of use-related variation and develops the ability to use linguistic frameworks to analyse and interpret language.

What will I study?

At AS, Unit 1 will introduce candidates to the central position of narrative in the ways in which literary texts work. Unit 2 will introduce candidates to aspects of genre.

Which exam board?

AQA GCE English Language Specification A (www.aqa.org.uk)

Unit 1: Seeing through Language You will look at how to analyse texts using linguistic frameworks & grammar and its importance and then look at the way children’s language develops from birth onwards. In the exam there will be one Language Analysis task and one Language Development essay.

Unit 2: Representation and Language You will undertake one language investigation looking at how texts might produce, maintain or change social values. You will be taught and undertake one language production task involving the production of a genre based text written to challenge a particular representation of a social group, individual, event or institution.

Unit 3: Language Explorations You will be taught issues surrounding the causation and result of language change, on a variety of issues of prescriptivism and descriptivism. In the exam you will complete one Language Change or Language Variation essay and one analysis task.

Unit 4: Language Investigations and Interventions You will undertake one Language Investigation and one Intervention task which involves writing about a language debate in a particular form for a non-specialist audience.

Additional information This is a very demanding and rigorous course and is not suitable for candidates who do not like reading a range of texts from Chaucer to Benjamin Zephaniah and analysing language in depth. It is very different from GCSE English and involves a detailed study of grammar, lexis, semantics, pragmatics and phonology. There is a creative element, but objective analysis predominates in this course.

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Which exam board?

AQA English Literature Specification B (www.aqa.org.uk)

The AS specification has 2 units: Unit 1: Aspects of Narrative Topic list • Section A – Prose post 1990: Arundhati Roy, Ann Tyler, Khaled Hosseini, Andrea Levy, Ian McEwan, Sebastian Faulks, Mark Haddon • Section B – Poetry 1800-1945: Tennyson, Browning, Coleridge, Keats, Auden, Hardy and Rossetti.

Unit 2: Dramatic Genres Topic list • At least two plays within the dramatic genre of comedy. At least one of the plays must be by Shakespeare.

At A2, Unit 3 teaches candidates to develop ideas on the significance of genre. In Unit 4, candidates will study a wide range of texts, the different ways of reading texts and critical ideas applied with discrimination to literary texts.

Unit 3: Texts and Genres Candidates will study a minimum of two texts. At least one of these texts must be taken from the groups labelled 1300-1800 • Elements of the Gothic – 1300-1800; Shakespeare, Marlowe, Webster, Milton • Post 1800 – Mary Shelley, Emily Bronte, Bram Stoker, Angela Carter • Elements of the Pastoral – 1300-1800; various including Shakespeare, Goldsmith and Blake Post 1800 – various including Twain, Hardy, and Waugh Unit 4: Further and Independent Reading • a study of at least four texts, one of which will be a pre-released anthology of critical writing.

GCE FRENCH

GCE GENERAL STUDIES

What will I study?

Topics covered at AS will include: • Media • Popular culture • Healthy living / Lifestyle • Family / Relationships Topics covered at A2 will include: • Environment • The multicultural society • Contemporary social issues

What will I study?

The course is based on 4 modules ranging across Arts, Humanities and Science.

Which exam board?

AQA (www.aqa.org.uk)

Plus two from the following cultural topics: 1. A region in France / French-speaking country 2. 20th century French history 3. Study of a French author 4. A French speaking poet / dramatist 5. The work of a French director/architect / musician / painter

Which exam board?

AQA (www.aqa.org.uk)

Additional information The skills developed in General Studies have been increasingly recognised as valuable by both “recruiter” and “selector” universities.

Indeed, the A Level grade in General Studies is often considered as the best predictor of a student’s ultimate degree class.

We believe that General Studies strengthens our students’ candidature for all higher education courses, broadens their base of knowledge, refines various skills and helps towards educating sixth formers to be flexibly adaptive to the needs of the modern world.

Foundation and Higher tier papers are available.

Additional information In Year 12 students are guided carefully through the transition from GCSE to A-level and they are encouraged to adopt a much more independent approach towards their studies. In Year 13 students develop critical insights into the contemporary society and culture of countries where French is spoken. The development of these skills, together with their knowledge and understanding of the structure of the language, lay foundations for the future study of French or of other languages at University.

The MFL department makes extensive use of the Virtual Learning Environment to allow remote access to a wealth of written and audio resources. We encourage all A level students to make full use of this excellent resource.

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GCE GEOGRAPHY

GCE GERMAN

What will I study?

AS subject content is divided into two sections – Physical and Human Geography. All candidates study a physical and human core plus one physical and one human option.

What will I study?

Topics covered at AS will include: • Media • Popular culture • Healthy living / Lifestyle • Family / Relationships

Which exam board?

AQA (www.aqa.org.uk)

In ‘Core Physical’, knowledge and understanding in a key environment is developed. The compulsory ‘Rivers and Flood Management’ unit relates to environments familiar to most if not all students study of the role of water in landscape development and its management for human welfare.

In ‘Core Human’, fundamentals of ‘Global Population Change’ are addressed with an emphasis on changes and development over space and time and their geographical implications.

The ‘Physical Option’ studied focuses on the world’s Cold Environments, and involves a consideration not only of the glacial, processes shaping these lands but examines their exploitation and development and assesses the future of Antarctica. The ‘Human Option’ to be followed assesses the Geography of Health around the globe.

Additional information Investigation forms an integral part of geographical study and Geographical skills at this level. Accordingly, students undertake fieldwork throughout the North West of England, both locally and slightly further afield.

Which exam board?

AQA (www.aqa.org.uk)

Topics covered at A2 will include: • Environment • The multicultural society • Contemporary social issues Plus two from the following cultural topics: 1. A region in Germany / German-speaking country 2. 20th century German history 3. Study of a German author 4. A German speaking poet / dramatist 5. The work of a German director/architect / musician/painter Additional information In Year 12 students are guided carefully through the transition from GCSE to A-level and they are encouraged to adopt a much more independent approach towards their studies. In Year 13 students develop critical insights into the contemporary society and culture of countries where German is spoken. The development of these skills, together with their knowledge and understanding of the structure of the language, lay foundations for future study of German or of other languages at University.

The MFL department makes extensive use of the Virtual Learning Environment to allow remote access to a wealth of written and audio resources. We encourage all A level students to make full use of this excellent resource.

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GCE GOVERNMENT & POLITICS

GCE HISTORY

What will I study?

Unit 1: People and Politics looks at how people in the UK are linked to the government, through the themes of democracy and political participation, party policies and ideas, and pressure groups. . This exam will be sat at the end of Year 12.

What will I study?

Unit 1: Historical Themes in Breadth In this unit you will study two broad topics which are linked by a period or theme. We examine “The Expansion and Challenge of Nationalism�.

The periods that we study are: a) From Second Reich to Third Reich: Germany 1918-45 b) The Collapse of the Liberal State and the Triumph of Fascism in Italy, 1896-1943

Which exam board?

Edexcel (www.edexcel.com)

Unit 2: Governing the UK focuses on the main institutions of UK government such as Parliament and the Prime Minister and Cabinet. In Units 1 and 2 you will have the opportunity to debate current issues in UK politics. This exam will also be sat at the end of Year 12.

Unit 3: Key Themes in Political Analysis Topic C: Representative Processes in the USA. Unit 4: Extended Themes in Political Analysis Topic C: Government and Politics of the USA.

Which exam board?

Edexcel (www.edexcel.com)

Unit 2: British History Depth Studies In Unit 2 you will study carry out a depth study of one period of British history. You will explore source material to develop an in-depth understanding of the attitudes, beliefs and structures of the societies studied. The option followed in this unit is: Henry VIII: Authority, Nation and Religion, 1509-1540

Additional information Advanced GCE in Government and Politics will give you adaptable skills which will enable you to understand and assess ideas and arguments, and to construct and communicate clear answers to problems based on well-validated evidence.

With a GCE in Government and Politics, you can progress to higher education courses such as honours degrees in politics, international politics/relations and political science as well as to degrees in related subjects such as history, geography, economics and social policy.

The study of politics can lead to a variety of careers within areas such as journalism and broadcasting, management, publishing, local government, public policy and policy research, interest groups, local government and the voluntary sector, as well as within politics itself.

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Unit 3: Depth Studies and Associated Historical Controversies In Unit 3 you will carry out a depth study of a period, and will gain a firm understanding of key issues, problems and debates associated with it. Our option in this unit is: The United States, 1820-77: A Disunited Nation?

Unit 4: Historical Enquiry In this unit you will carry out an historical enquiry. This enquiry will be based on a period of at least 100 years. While your teacher will provide a broad overview of the chosen period, you will be able to choose an aspect within this period which particularly interests you, upon which to base your enquiry.

The period that we study in this unit is: EITHER: Crusading Europe 1095-1204 OR: The Middle East and the Arab-Israeli Conflict 1900-2001.

Additional information You can progress to higher education courses such as honours degrees in History, or to degrees in related subjects such as Politics, English Literature, Economics or Geography; or to vocational qualifications such as the BTEC Higher National Certificate/Diploma in Media (Journalism) or in Travel and Tourism.

An Advanced GCE in History will give you a number of skills relevant to many types of employment, such as the ability to seek information and to analyse it in order to identify facts and motives and to present information clearly for others to understand.

GCE MATHEMATICS Which exam board?

OCR (www.ocr.org.uk)

What will I study?

Although some students may want to study Mathematics purely for its own sake, and perhaps end up taking a Mathematics degree, the majority of potential students of the subject will see it more as an important tool for other disciplines. For a Sixth Former intending to be a physicist, engineer, designer, chemist, pharmacist, geographer, doctor, dentist or economist, the more mathematics he or she knows the better. Mathematics is an essential tool in any technological subject, in business and in commerce, primarily because it provides a means of communication which is powerful, concise and unambiguous.

Three modules are needed for AS Mathematics. They are Core Mathematics 1 and 2 and either of Statistics 1 or Mechanics 1. Core 1 and 2 build on the student’s GCSE work, extending the range of mathematical techniques and developing the basic concepts necessary for advanced study, for example in calculus, algebra and co-ordinate geometry.

Statistics 1 is concerned with the ability to present data in clear and manageable ways, to apply practical knowledge in theoretical situations using simple probability models and to understand the fundamental ideas of hypothesis testing. University courses such as medicine and pharmacy use statistics extensively for incidence of diseases or for drug trials. Many business or finance degrees also contain modules of statistics.

Mechanics 1 introduces the student to mathematical modelling and the basic concepts in kinematics, statics and dynamics. A large part of the mechanics course replicates work done in physics.

Additional information Those who found much of the GCSE work difficult or uninteresting would be ill-advised to take A-Level, because of its greater demands. A good grade at GCSE is an essential pre-requisite for AS or A level studies.

GCSE Grade A or above required.

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GCE MUSIC

Which exam board?

AQA (www.aqa.org.uk) What will I study?

Unit 1 Influences on Music • The Western Classical Tradition (compulsory) • Choral Music in the Baroque Period • Music Theatre: a study of the Musical from 1940 to 1980 • British Popular Music from 1960 to the present day Unit 2 Creating Musical Ideas Brief A Compositional techniques Brief B Free composition or pastiche in response to a given genre Brief C Arranging Unit 3 Interpreting Musical Ideas Candidates offer two performances chosen from the following: (a) a solo performance on an instrument (b) a solo performance on voice (c) a solo performance on a second instrument (d) an ensemble performance (e) a technology-based performance 1 – Sequencing (f) a technology-based performance 2 – Multi-track/close microphone recording.

Unit 6 Musical Performance Candidates offer two (or more) contrasting pieces to form a short programme for either acoustic performance and/or performance via music technology chosen from: (a) solo acoustic performances (b) technology-based performances (c) one solo performance and one technology-based performance - each performance to be at least 15 minuets. The programme should last 10-15 minutes. The pieces will be chosen to show a variety of style, technique, period and/or approach. Candidates may perform their own compositions if these make sufficient technical and expressive demands on them.

Additional information We recommend that candidates should have acquired the skills and knowledge associated with a GCSE Music course or equivalent. The Music A level course extends the skills from GCSE into areas of performance, composing and understanding of different musical styles.

Unit 4 Music in Context • The Western Classical Tradition (compulsory) • English Choral Music in the 20th century • Chamber Music from Mendelssohn to Debussy • Four decades of Jazz and Blues 1910–1950 Unit 5 Developing Musical Ideas Candidates demonstrate their ability to create and develop musical ideas with technical control and expressive understanding, making creative use of musical devices, conventions and resources in response to one of three briefs as follows: Brief A Compositional techniques Brief B Free composition or pastiche in response to a chosen brief Brief C Arranging: The brief will consist of arranging a piece of popular ‘classical’ music selected by AQA from any musical period from the baroque onwards.

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GCE PHYSICS

Which exam board?

AQA (www.aqa.org.uk) What will I study?

A-level Physics allows students to appreciate how fundamental Science works and to study optional topics that particularly interest them – including Astrophysics and Medical Physics.

There are six units in the specification – three at AS and three at A2.

Four of the units are assessed by exam. There are two units assessing investigative and practical skills. These can be completed via a teacherassessed or examiner-assessed route.

Name Angela Wu Previous School Beijing No. 55 High School, China Studying AS Chemistry, Physics, Maths and Further Maths Career Aspirations In the future I would like to become a chemical engineer as I am interested in Chemistry, Maths and Physics Why I chose WHGS It has a wide range of extra-curricular activities and achieves good A-Level results and classes are quite small so you get more one to one time with the teachers.

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AS Physics

A2 Physics

Unit 1: Particles, Quantum Phenomena and Electricity - Particles and Radiation - Electromagnetic Radiation and Quantum Phenomena - Current Electricity

Unit 4: Fields and Mechanics - Further Mechanics - Gravitation - Electric Fields - Capacitance - Magnetic Fields

Further

Unit 2: Mechanics, Materials and Unit 5: Nuclear Physics, Thermal Waves Physics and an Optional Topic - Mechanics - Radioactivity - Materials - Nuclear Energy -Waves - Thermal Physics Unit 3: ISA Unit 6: ISA - Investigative and practical skills - Investigative and practical skills AS Physics A2 Physics Additional Information Who takes the course?

A-level Physics builds on the concepts and skills developed in the Physics GCSE and is particularly suitable for students who have the skills and knowledge associated with a good GCSE Additional or triple Science course.

What skills will I learn?

Apart of the obvious skills if you want to be a Physicist or Engineer, pupils take Physics to improve their employability, increasing their cognitive skills/brainpower as they develop the ability to identify and

solve problems, work with information and handle a mass of diverse data, assess risk and draw conclusions.

Where will success take me?

A Level Physics students are equipped with skills and knowledge that can transfer to a range of varied careers. You could choose to seek employment in engineering, medicine, forensics, sports science, geophysics, aeronautics, nanotechnology, research or teaching. If you intend to continue studying at university level, the Physics A Level can lead to a host of degree courses such as physics, photonics, engineering, information technology and medicine.

GCE PHYSICAL EDUCATION Which exam board?

Edexcel (www.edexcel.com)

What will I study?

Students will have the chance to take on the roles of ‘performer’, ‘leader’ or ‘official’ at AS, before focusing on one of these roles at A2. In the context of their chosen role(s), they will: • Review their current participation in physical activity.

• Identify opportunities locally, nationally and internationally for them to advance their participation in physical activity.

• Create a development plan and a life plan for their participation in physical activity.

Elsewhere, students will learn about sport, from the grass roots to the elite level, and the development of competitive sport. Healthy lifestyles, fitness and training, and preparation for sports performance are also covered extensively.

Additional information The course is an academic based course with the majority of the timetabled lessons being taught in the classroom. A good level of representational/individual sporting performance and experience of Physical Education at examination level is beneficial for success on this course. We welcome applications from candidates who have gained at least a B grade in GCSE Physical Education level. We also welcome applications from candidates who have not studied GCSE PE but offer a high a level of performance in more than one sport and they should also have at least a Grade B in Core Science.

Name Waqas Anwar Previous School William Hulme’s Grammar School Studying AS Business Studies, Sociology, Sports Science and Psychology Career Aspirations I would like to become a Sports Psychologist for many different sporting clubs. This will allow me to help different sports stars to get them back in the right frame of mind.

Why I chose WHGS I have been here since Year 7 and I know all the teachers so it helped a lot. Wearing a suit attracted me as I like to look smart and WHGS has a great reputation.

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GCE PSYCHOLOGY Which exam board?

WJEC (www.wjec.co.uk)

What will I study?

In Unit 1 of the AS year, you will develop a broad understanding of the main assumptions, theories and therapies of the four main psychological approaches, including: • behaviourist • biological • psychodynamic • cognitive Unit 2 of the AS course covers research methods used by psychologists and applies these to 10 core studies.

Students will: • develop skills of analysis and evaluation.

• understand that no one explanation is enough to fully explain complex human behaviours.

• study both psychological research and scientific methodology.

• gain a broad skill set that prepares them for higher education or a wide range of potential careers including Medicine.

At A2, topics include: • Abnormality (e.g. schizophrenia & depression) • Levels of consciousness (e.g. hypnosis, sleep, dreaming) • Forensic psychology (e.g. theories of crime, offender profiling) • Controversies in Psychology (e.g. free will vs determinism) Additional information Studying an A-Level in Psychology will help you understand why individuals in society behave as they do. It reflects many contemporary issues and provides an informed way of looking at the challenges facing us in 21st Century life.

Name Meghna Bhatt Previous School William Hulme’s Grammar School Studying AS English Language, Economics, Biology and Maths Career Aspirations Marketing – Working for a large organisation preferably in buying or selling products Why I chose WHGS I chose WHGS as the school has a great sense of community in terms of its house system and extra-curricular activities. Teachers are willing to help and having been here through high school I have realised the school places emphasis on both the academic and extra-curricular, helping to develop well-rounded individuals.

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GCE RELIGIOUS STUDIES

GCE SOCIOLOGY

What will I study at AS? Philosophy of Religion deals with the major problems in philosophy of religion. These include trying to prove the existence of God; evaluating scientific theories about the origins of the universe; explaining why a powerful, loving God would allow suffering and evil to exist, and is evil personified in a Satan figure?

What will I study?

From the start, students are encouraged to see the links between the different areas of Sociology, through two core sociological themes: • socialisation, culture and identity, and • social differentiation, power and stratification.

Which exam board?

OCR (www.ocr.org.uk)

The unit looks in some detail at the challenges from psychology (e.g.

Freud and Jung) and sociology (e.g. Marx, Weber and Durkheim) as well scientific and philosophical views on the creation of the universe; particularly the debate between Creationism and the Big Bang theory.

We examine religious responses to challenges posed by scientific views and ask can a religious believer follow Darwinism and various developments of evolutionary theory.

Candidates should be able to discuss critically their own views as well as analyse the views and claims of a variety of thinkers and philosophers.

Religious Ethics is a study of ethical theory and a number of applied ethical topics. GCSE students will recognise topics such as euthanasia, genetic engineering and terrorism and the AS level allows students to apply their theoretic learning to a choice of such topics. The subject stimulates students to look at the world of today in new and interesting ways and the knowledge gained has practical applications beyond the classroom.

Additional information The course does not assume or require any previous study of Religious Studies. The course is open to candidates from any religious background and success in this subject will in no way depend upon a candidate’s religious beliefs or lack of them. In fact, of almost two hundred and fifty pupils who have gained A-Level RS at WHGS, only about a half would claim to hold religious beliefs themselves. The majority of students continue beyond AS to a full A-Level in Religious Studies, where the pass rate is currently 98% and most students secure their highest grade in this subject. The RS course covers a variety of interesting issues. In one lesson you may be attempting to prove that a God exists or trying to justify the existence of Satan if God really loves us, the next you could be looking to justify armed interventions around the globe or to justify the use of torture.

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Which exam board?

AQA (www.aqa.org.uk)

These themes underpin the topic areas and encourage students to think about the subject as a whole.

AS Topics include: • Families and Households • Education • Sociological methods At A2 there is the opportunity for more detailed study and specialisation.

Topics here include: • Beliefs in Society • Theory and Methods • Crime and Deviance Additional information Sociology is the study of patterns and trends of behaviour in society, specifically Modern British Society. Sociology is a subject to which students can relate. It’s relevant to everyday life so you can immediately engage with the subject even if you haven’t studied it before. Studying sociology encourages students to develop critical and reflective thinking skills, and a respect for social diversity, which are useful skills to take to higher education and working life. AS level Sociology gives students a broad knowledge and understanding of the social processes and social change which affect their everyday lives.

GCE SPANISH

Which exam board?

AQA (www.aqa.org.uk) What will I study?

Topics covered at AS will include: • Media • Popular culture • Healthy living / Lifestyle • Family / Relationships Topics covered at A2 will include: • Environment • The multicultural society • Contemporary social issues Plus two from the following cultural topics: 1. A region in Spain / Spanish-speaking country 2. 20th century Spanish history 3. Study of a Spanish author 4. A Spanish speaking poet / dramatist 5. The work of a Spanish director/architect /musician/painter Additional information In Year 12 students are guided carefully through the transition from GCSE to A-level and they are encouraged to adopt a much more independent approach towards their studies. In Year 13 students develop critical insights into the contemporary society and culture of countries where Spanish is spoken. The development of these skills, together with their knowledge and understanding of the structure of the language, lay foundations for future study of Spanish or of other languages at University.

The MFL department makes extensive use of the Virtual Learning Environment to allow remote access to a wealth of written and audio resources. We encourage all A level students to make full use of this excellent resource.

In addition, A level students currently have one class per week with the Spanish assistant.

Name Paula Gavenyte Previous School Vytautas Magnus Gymnasium, Lithuania Studying AS Business Studies, Maths, Sociology and Politics Career Aspirations After a year of A-Level Maths I am considering doing a Degree which requires a lot of Maths skills. I am pursuing this by taking AS Further Maths in my A2 year.

Why I chose WHGS I chose WHGS because after a lot of research I noticed that it is the best school in Manchester and in order to achieve all my goals I wanted to get the most out of my experience in the Sixth Form.

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United Learning ‘The Best in Everyone’ United Learning Group Ethos and Values Statement United Learning is a group of schools committed to providing excellent education through which all pupils are able to progress, achieve and go on to succeed in life. Our approach is underpinned by a sense of moral purpose and commitment to doing what is right for children and young people, supporting colleagues to achieve excellence and acting with integrity in all our dealings within and beyond the organisation, in the interests of young people everywhere. We summarise this ethos as ‘The Best in Everyone’.

Governance WHGS Local Governing Body (LGB) supports the Principal in monitoring policies and operations such as admissions, behaviour, and discipline; the academy budget; the curriculum and its delivery: and maintaining the quality of the academy and its links with the community. It has special responsibility to monitor academic progress as it is reviewed year by year.

• The LGB consists of a minimum of 5 and a maximum of 15 members • The Chairman • The Principal

This ethos underpins our core values

• One elected parent member

• Ambition – to achieve the best for ourselves and others; • Confidence – to have the courage of our convictions and to take risks in the right cause; • Creativity – to imagine possibilities and make them real; • Respect – of ourselves and others in all that we do; • Enthusiasm – to seek opportunity, find what is good and pursue talents and interests; • Determination – to overcome obstacles and reach success.

• One elected non teaching staff member

As a single organisation, we seek to bring together the best of independent and state sectors, respecting both traditions and learning from each. We believe that each of our schools is and should be distinctive – each is committed to developing its own distinctive strengths and identity while sharing our core values as institutions which promote service, compassion and generosity.

This ethos is our expression of our Christian roots, in schools which are fully inclusive and both welcome and respect students and staff of all faiths and none.

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• One elected teaching staff member • One person elected by the LEA • Other such members as appointed by the Board of ULT

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William Hulme’s Grammar School Spring Bridge Road Manchester M16 8PR t 0161 226 2054 f 0161 232 5544 e enquiries@whgs-academy.org w www.whgs-academy.org.uk United Learning Company number: 4439859