Bios Diploma Programme Bios Electives Course Directory
There are four categories of courses - Academic (A), Beyond the Curriculum (B), Community (C), and Development (D). There are many courses in each category. From these options you need to choose one for Autumn and one for Spring. Over the two years of Sixth Form you will need to choose at least two A category courses, and at least one from any other category. Most courses are open to all Transitus and Sixth, however please note that some only run for one year group in a specific term. This is detailed under each course title.
Click here for A Courses
Click here for B Courses
Click here for C Courses
Click here for D Courses
Category A: Academic
A range of academic courses that provide students with opportunities to explore their chosen subjects beyond the A-level syllabus. The courses challenge and stretch students' knowledge, while also giving practical experience in their chosen field.
Art Course available to Transitus and Sixth. Autumn Term or Spring Term. This highly practical course is open to current A-level Art pupils and anyone curious to try out the subject. Students can explore a variety of materials and techniques with hands-on portfolio building exercises and curated trips to inspiring exhibitions. Join us and unlock the power of self-expression.
Applied Biological Sciences Course available to Transitus and Sixth. Autumn Term or Spring Term.
1 Pharmacology
2 Genetics
3 Pathology
4 Epidemiology
Learn about the study of drugs and their effect on living organisms
Explore heredity and variation in living organisms
Understand the medical specialty of Study the incidence, distribution, and control diagnosing and treating diseases of diseases in populations The Applied Biological Sciences course will give you a glimpse into university-level tutorials, where you can present your own research and hone your scientific communication skills.
Chemistry This course is available to Sixth in Autumn Term only, and to Transitus in Spring Term only.
Inorganic Chemistry
Learn the fundamental principles of chemical reactions
Organic Chemistry
Biochemistry
Explore organic compounds, Discover the chemical processes including their properties, within and related to living structure, and reactions organisms Develop your problem-solving and teamwork skills, gain valuable preparation for university interviews, and craft compelling personal statements by exploring theoretical and environmental Chemistry.
Classics This course is available to Sixth in Autumn Term only, and Transitus in Spring Term only. Step into the captivating realm of ancient Greece and Rome, where an abundance of texts and material culture has profoundly shaped the minds of writers, artists, and thinkers throughout the ages. Each session will explore a specific text and its enduring influence on subsequent generations. Through this journey, we gain a profound understanding of antiquity and learn to critically examine our own perceptions of the world. No prior knowledge of Latin or Greek is required.
Computer Science: Machine Learning Course available to Transitus and Sixth. Autumn Term or Spring Term.
1 Python Programming
Develop coding skills by using Python library and design programs that can learn from data
2 3
Fundamentals of Machine Learning
Discover the mechanics behind modern machine learning algorithms and the role they play in artificial intelligence
Independent Research
With guidance, design and build your machine learning applications in pairs
Embark on an exciting journey into the world of machine learning! Explore the latest trends in this rapidly evolving field and develop the skills necessary to create programs using Python.
DT: Designer Maker Course available to Transitus and Sixth. Autumn Term or Spring Term.
The Process
Tackle exciting design briefs, from ideation to prototyping.
What You'll Learn
Innovation in design The art of ideation and prototyping The creation of visuallyappealing pieces
Suited To…
Students who want to hone their design skills and problem-solving abilities.
Economics: Reading Beyond the Syllabus This course is only available to the Transitus and runs in Spring Term. Sixth should choose Advanced Economics.
Donut Economics
Explore the groundbreaking ideas presented in Kate Roward's book and see how a transformative view of economics can shape our choices and policies.
Good Economics for Trade Wars are Hard Times Class Wars Delve into Abhijit Bannerjee and Esther Duflo's book and uncover the thought-provoking insights relevant to the economic challenges we're facing today.
Explore the thought-provoking insights of Michael Klein and Michael Pettis in their book
This course immerses you in the world of 21st-century economics as you engage with influential academic texts and broaden your understanding of contemporary economics.
Economics: Business Management Course available to Transitus and Sixth. Autumn Term or Spring Term. Delve into the fascinating world of business through an academic exploration of management, corporate strategy, finance, marketing, and macroeconomic influences. This course offers a rigorous investigation into the intricacies of business decision-making. Engage in in-depth reading of extended articles and books, and be prepared to analyze and answer questions on the material learned. Expand your knowledge, sharpen your critical thinking skills, and gain a comprehensive understanding of the complexities and dynamics of the business landscape. This course is ideal for aspiring business professionals seeking a solid foundation in key business principles.
Advanced Economics This course is only available to Sixth and runs in the in Autumn Term. Transitus should choose Economics: Reading Beyond the Syllabus.
Theory and Science Economists Dive into advanced labour market theory, explore the foundations of economics as a science, and delve deeper into macroeconomics.
Discover the influential economic theories developed by renowned economists such as Adam Smith, John Maynard Keynes, and Friedrich Hayek.
Beyond A Level
This course is a gateway to a deeper understanding of the intricacies of economics and the theories that have shaped the discipline.
Expand your knowledge of economics beyond the A level syllabus with our comprehensive course. Broaden your perspective and elevate your comprehension of this vital field.
English: Beginning Literary Theory This course is only available to Transitus and runs in the Spring Term. Sixth should choose English: Practical Criticism and Critical Practice. This stimulating course invites you to engage with some of the key critical frameworks used to interpret literary texts since the mid-twentieth century, from postcolonialism to feminism, queer theory, psychoanalysis and structuralism. Each week, you will be introduced to a new theory and encouraged to apply its principles to a set of unseen texts from different literary periods and genres. The course is aimed at enthusiastic Transitus A-level English pupils and aspiring English undergraduates. It would be an especially good choice for pupils considering an Oxbridge English application.
English
Practical Criticism and Critical Practice This course is only available to Sixth and runs in the Autumn Term. Transitus should choose English: Beginning Literary Theory. This absorbing course will take you on a journey through the literary canon, from Medieval verse to Renaissance drama, the Rise of the Novel, Romantic poetry, Modernist literature, and Postmodern writing. Each week, you will be introduced to a new set of texts designed to provoke discussion and critical debate. The course is aimed at enthusiastic Sixth A-level English pupils and aspiring English undergraduates, with the latter also benefiting from coverage of tricky university interview questions and ELAT-style material.
Geography: The Geography of Power Course available to Transitus and Sixth. Autumn Term and Spring Term. Embark on a captivating journey through the Geography of Power course, where the intricacies of global geopolitics come to life.
Discover
Examine
The dynamics of power and influence, investigating how they are wielded and transformed over time.
Explore
Delve
The factors that determine a country's power and understand the evolving nature of international borders within power relationships.
Contemporary geopolitical Into the concept of a 'superpower' flashpoints such as the South China and its evolving role in the 21st Sea, China-Taiwan, The Arctic, and century. Russia-Ukraine, unravelling the meaning of 'power' in the context of nations. Join us in this thought-provoking exploration of global power dynamics and gain a deeper understanding of the forces shaping our world.
History: Nuclear Weapons - History & Motivation Course available to Transitus and Sixth. Autumn Term or Spring Term.
The Concept of Mutually Assured Destruction Investigate why nuclear weapons were not heavily used after 1945
1 The Development of Nuclear Weapons
2
3 The Nuclear Taboo
Delve into the influence of the Nuclear Taboo Explore the history of nuclear weapons during during the Cold War leading up to the Cuban the early Cold War. Missile Crisis. Discover why nuclear weapons were not extensively used after 1945 and what drives countries to pursue nuclear capabilities in Nuclear Weapons: History and Motivation course. Delve into the development of the hydrogen bomb, the concept of Mutually Assured Destruction, and the influence of the Nuclear Taboo during the Cold War, leading up to the Cuban Missile Crisis.
History of Art: Seeking Representation in the National Gallery Course available to Transitus and Sixth. Autumn Term or Spring Term. Embark on a thought-provoking journey through the rooms of the renowned National Gallery and explore the issue of diversity within its collections. Discover the gaps and reasons behind the lack of representation, from regal portraits to the vibrant cafes of Paris, the gondolas of Venice, and the iconic Hay Wain. Learn the art of dissecting a painting, tracing the evolution of human rights and values frame by frame.
Mathematics and Problem Solving This course is only available to Transitus and runs in the Spring Term. Sixth should choose Advanced Mathematics.
Embark on a thril ing journey of mathematics and problem-solving with our enriching course. Explore complex geometry, master the art of advanced graph sketching, and get a taste of undergraduate-level mathematics. Designed for both Single and Further Mathematicians, this course enhances your problem-solving prowess and equips you to tackle challenging big problems. Prepare to elevate your mathematical abilities and unlock new dimensions of problem-solving excellence.
Advanced Mathematics This course is only available to Sixth and runs in the Autumn Term. Transitus should choose Mathematics and Problem Solving.
Further Mathematicians…
Ignite your mathematical prowess with our Advanced Further Mathematics Enrichment course, designed for aspiring undergraduates in Mathematics, Engineering, Computer Science, and other technical disciplines. Join us in the Autumn term as we delve into the depths of challenging mathematical problems. Navigate your way through STEP questions and tackle big problems that mirror the intensity of university interviews. This course is ideal for Sixth Form students who have studied Further Mathematics and seek to push their boundaries. Unleash your potential, sharpen your problem-solving skil s, and pave your way to academic success. Embark on a transformative mathematical journey.
Medicine This course is available to Sixth in Autumn Term and to Transitus in Spring Term.
MMIs or Panel Interviews
We offer interview practice and strategies tailored for MMIs or Panel Interviews, ensuring you're well-prepared.
BMAT Training
Enhance your medical understanding with BMAT training, designed to help you excel in the essay writing component.
The Qualities of a Good Doctor
Our sessions delve into the structure of the NHS and explore the qualities that define a good doctor.
Our essential Medicine Interview Preparation course offers interview practice and strategies. Improve your medical understanding with BMAT training designed to help you excel in the essay writing component. Our sessions also explore the structure of the NHS and qualities that define a good doctor.
Modern Foreign Languages This course is only available to Transitus and runs in the Spring Term. Sixth should choose MFL: Modern Languages and Cultures.
1 Discover how languages open doors in the professional realm…
2
Delve into the fascinating field of linguistics…
4
3
Invaluable insights into the world of travel and cultural immersion… Unravel the magic of film analysis through a linguistic lens…
Embark on a captivating journey through the world of modern foreign languages! Our sessions offer a comprehensive exploration of language learning, spanning diverse aspects and real-life applications.
MFL: Modern Languages and Cultures This course is only available to Sixth and it runs in the Autumn Term. Transitus should choose Modern Foreign Languages.
1 Metacognition
Explore the fascinating world of metacognition in language learning and unleash your passion by presenting on topics that ignite your linguistic curiosity.
Intricacies of Language
2
Delve into the intricacies of language in poems, lyrics, and real-life applications, paving the way for your future language studies.
3
Preparation for University
Sharpen your interview skil s and boost your confidence in communication. Join us on this transformative adventure, where you'l expand your language horizons and gain invaluable insights for your linguistic pursuits.
Philosophy Course available to Transitus and Sixth. Autumn Term or Spring Term. Embark on an intellectual journey through the realms of moral and political philosophy. This thought-provoking course explores both timeless and contemporary issues, challenging your perspective on morality and justice. Delve into profound questions such as the ethical implications of art and the relevance of addressing current injustices in theories of justice. Engage with the philosophical wisdom of great thinkers and cultivate your own critical thinking skills. Join us as we navigate through complex philosophical terrain, unraveling ethical dilemmas and shaping our own philosophical frameworks.
Physics This course is only available to Transitus and runs in the Spring Term. Sixth should choose Advanced Physics.
1 Prepare for the future
Our specialised course is designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge to succeed in your future endeavours in physics and engineering. Join us to explore captivating concepts beyond A level physics, delivered in an interactive and engaging manner.
2 Delve into intriguing topics
From mechanics to quantum physics, broaden your understanding with the help of our experienced tutors. Engaging discussions and problem-solving exercises will inspire you to push beyond your comfort zone.
Advanced Physics This course is only available to Sixth and runs in the Autumn Term. Transitus should choose Physics.
Gear up for the future
Take your physics and engineering passion to the next level. Our specialized course is tailored for university applicants aspiring to attend renowned institutions. Dazzle in captivating concepts that go beyond A level physics, delivered in an interactive and enjoyable manner.
Discover fascinating topics
Delve into intriguing aerodynamics subjects like the Bernoulli and Magnus effects. Uncover the mysteries surrounding the Archimedes principle. If problem-solving puzzles ignite your spirit, then you'll embrace this course with open arms.
Politics This course is only available to Transitus and runs in the Spring Term. Sixth should choose
Advanced Politics.
Connect current affairs with political concepts Join our thought-provoking course to analyse how news issues connect with ideologies, beliefs, and political frameworks. Our specialized course is designed for news enthusiasts who relish stimulating debates and engaging discussions. Prepare to delve into research and express fresh ideas.
Advanced Politics This course is only available to Sixth and runs in the Autumn Term. Transitus should choose Politics.
The focus you need Uncover compelling topics
Delve deeper into the intricate connections between political ideologies and their real-world implications. Designed for A level politics enthusiasts, our specialized course closely examines liberalism, conservatism, socialism, and feminism. Topics such as privilege, equality, and ethics surrounding private education will ignite thought-provoking conversations in our engaging and enlightening learning experience. Moreover, prepare to conduct comparative research beyond the borders of the UK to broaden your understanding.
Psychology Course available to Transitus and Sixth. Autumn Term or Spring Term.
Understanding human behaviour
Fostering critical thinking
Embark on a captivating exploration of key theories Engage in seminar-style discussions to evaluate the in psychology that will deepen your understanding merits and values of these ideas, fostering critical of human behavior and experiences. Gain insights thinking and personal growth. Don't miss out on the into your own thoughts and actions, as well as opportunity to enhance your understanding of those of others. psychology.
Category B: Beyond the Curriculum
A series of co-curricular courses encompassing Music, Drama, Sport, and Art, providing a holistic experience that extends beyond the boundaries of traditional academia. These courses offer valuable enrichment opportunities that foster personal growth, creativity, teamwork, physical fitness, and selfexpression.
Click here for A Courses
Click here for C Courses
Click here for D Courses
Gallery Project Committee Course available to Transitus and Sixth. This is an Autumn Term course.
Graphic Design Curation
Audio/Video Recording and Editing
Photography
2D & 3D Making
Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of The Lund Gallery, where collaborative creativity takes centre stage. The culmination of your artistic endeavours will be showcased in an exhibition and celebrated during a private view event.
Jewellery and Silversmithing Course available to Transitus and Sixth. This a Spring Term course. Unleash your creativity in the world of jewellery making with our specialised course. Whether you're a beginner or have some experience, this course offers the opportunity to create stunning pieces using copper or brass. A course which allows you to create jewellery that reflects your personal style and creativity.
Metalwork Techniques
Learn metalwork techniques such as piercing, filing, soldering, and forming.
Shaping Techniques
Master the art of shaping and transforming metal into unique jewellery designs.
Practical
Immerse yourself in a handson learning experience and unlock your potential in the captivating realm of metalwork.
Playwriting Course available to Transitus and Sixth. Autumn Term or Spring Term. Immerse yourself in the art of playwriting with our engaging course. Discover the secrets of crafting compelling plays, delving into the nuances of dialogue, structure, and character development. Unlock your creativity as you learn essential techniques to bring your stories to life on the stage. Whether you're an aspiring playwright or simply intrigued by the world of dramatic writing, this course will ignite your passion and deepen your understanding of the craft. A transformative journey that will unleash your storytelling prowess through the power of playwriting.
Public Speaking Course available to Transitus and Sixth. Autumn Term or Spring Term. Unleash the power of your voice and enhance your communication skills with our dynamic course. Through the transformative tools of drama, we'll focus on improving your public speaking and interview abilities.
Develop Confidence and Clarity
Improve Voice Projection
Audiences and Interviews
From voice projection to body language, we'll empower you to captivate any audience and excel in interviews. Whether you aspire to be a performer or simply seek to enhance your communication prowess, this course offers a valuable opportunity to unlock your full potential.
History of Jazz Course available to Transitus and Sixth. Autumn Term or Spring Term. Embark on a captivating journey through the rich history of jazz, immersing yourself in its harmonies, rhythms, melodies, instrumentation, and lyrics. This course goes beyond mere musical exploration, delving into the intricate relationship between jazz and the socio-economic climate of different eras. Tailored for students with a solid technical foundation on their instruments, these sessions offer the unique opportunity to study and perform jazz material. Join us as we unravel the captivating tales of jazz, honing your skills and deepening your understanding of this influential genre.
Sport Science Course available to Transitus and Sixth. Autumn Term or Spring Term. Discover the power of sports science in this dynamic short course. Uncover the secrets behind data collection and interpretation, enhancing health, exercise, and sports performance. Explore cutting-edge techniques utilized to monitor biological measures, physiological markers, and performance metrics. Gain valuable insights from real data sourced from elite sporting environments. This course empowers you to make a tangible impact and drive positive change.
Category C: Community
A range of volunteering opportunities promoting empathy, compassion, and a sense of social responsibility. These options provide the chance to develop leadership, communication, and teamwork skills. Options in the Community category foster personal growth, self-confidence, and a broader perspective on life. Through volunteering, you can make a positive impact on the community, gain valuable life experiences, and cultivate a lifelong commitment to service.
Click here for A Courses
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Click here for D Courses
Primary School Placements Course available to Transitus and Sixth. Autumn Term or Spring Term. Take on the rewarding role of supporting Reception to Year 6 students in local Primary Schools, primarily in reading and maths. These sessions occur either in the classroom alongside the teacher or in a separate room, maintaining a ratio of 1:2 or 1:3. The true value lies in the meaningful connections our pupils forge with the younger ones, serving as mentors in addition to their role as teaching assistants. A very valuable, and very rewarding, opportunity to give back to your local community.
Junior Branch Course available to Transitus and Sixth. Autumn Term or Spring Term. Play a vital role in supporting Reception to Year 4 students in Art, Design Technology, Music, and Drama at the Junior Branch. The true value lies in the meaningful relationships you will forge with the younger ones, serving as both mentors and teacher assistants, and making a positive impact while developing your leadership and mentoring skills. Join us in nurturing creativity and fostering a strong bond within our school community through this engaging opportunity.
Secondary School Placements Course available to Transitus and Sixth. Autumn Term or Spring Term. Join our impactful initiative where UCS pupils actively support GCSE Maths students at Westminster Academy. Through this collaboration you will establish meaningful connections with your peers at a different school. Witnessing the progress of the students you help not only boosts your own confidence but also enhances your understanding of mathematical concepts. This dynamic partnership promotes academic growth and development for everyone involved. Don't miss out on this rewarding opportunity!
Ukrainian Svitlo School Course available to Transitus and Sixth. Autumn Term or Spring Term. Empower yourself by leading your own online classes or clubs for Ukrainian students in Ukraine and the UK! These exciting opportunities are extra-curricular and customizable based on your passions. Collaborate with a partner to conduct engaging one-hour classes every Friday afternoon. Additionally, mentoring support is provided to assist Ukrainian students throughout their A Levels and GCSE journey. Join us in making a positive impact while enhancing your leadership skills. Unleash your potential and inspire students through this fulfilling experience!
Biodiversity Course available to Transitus and Sixth. Autumn Term or Spring Term. Discover the wonders of biodiversity, learn essential gardening skills, and become a steward of the environment in our engaging program at the UCS Allotment! This unique educational experience introduces pupils to the fascinating world of nature while emphasising the importance of environmental stewardship. Through hands-on activities and interactive workshops, participants gain practical knowledge on cultivating and maintaining thriving ecosystems. Join us at the UCS Allotment and unlock a lifelong passion for biodiversity conservation and sustainable gardening practices.
Category D: Development
A selection of courses that cultivate both practical and intellectual skills, while offering valuable qualifications. From mastering the ACT for college admissions to gaining fluency in British Sign Language (BSL), these courses empower you to excel. Develop critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving abilities through hands-on activities and engaging learning experiences.
Click here for A Courses
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Click here for C Courses
SAT Course This course is only available to Transitus and runs in the Autumn Term only. There is an additional cost. If you are interested in studying in the US, this course will prepare you for your SAT exam. Over the course of the Autumn Term, you will be taught the intricacies and content of the new Digital SAT. Parents will receive a separate letter to sign up to this course, and it is run online by UES - an external company. Vital to those wishing to study in the USA.
Novel Writing Course available to Transitus and Sixth. This course only runs in the Autumn Term. Embark on a transformative term-long course dedicated to the art of novel writing, culminating in the exhilarating National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo).
Beginning
Immerse yourself in the intricacies of character development, narrative structure, and storytelling techniques.
Middle
Explore your identity as a writer, and develop the discipline of writing.
End
As the pinnacle of the course, NaNoWriMo will challenge you to write a 50,000-word novel in November, giving you the opportunity to compete with other talented writers.
Whether you're an aspiring novelist or simply passionate about writing, this course offers a unique journey to unleash your creativity and become a published author.
Super Curricular Seminar Series This course is only available to Transitus and runs in the Spring Term. Elevate your knowledge and excel in your chosen subject area with our exclusive seminar series, and suitable for those considering applying to the most competitive courses/universities. Designed to push the boundaries beyond A Level, this course offers a collaborative environment where you'll engage in group discussion based around your chosen subject area, present weekly on reading and research, tackle complex problem-solving tasks, and develop your ability to think out loud. Sharpen your critical thinking skills and enhance your academic abilities in preparation for universities applications and interviews. A course focused on intellectual growth and academic excellence.
Student Support Service This course is only available to Transitus and it runs in the Spring Term.
Become part of our dedicated team of student volunteers running the Student Support Service. Open to all members of the school community seeking someone to talk to, this service is designed by students, for students. Join us for comprehensive training throughout the Autumn term, focusing on active listening, effective communication, and cultivating empathy in a supportive and constructive manner. As a fully trained volunteer, you will then take over as a member of the Student Support Service in January. Make a difference by providing valuable support to your peers. Together, let's create a caring and empathetic environment within our school community.
British Sign Language Course available to Transitus and Sixth. Autumn Term and Spring Term. Embark on an exciting online journey to learn British Sign Language (BSL) and earn a valuable qualification. This comprehensive course is designed to provide you with the essential skills and knowledge to communicate effectively using BSL. From basic vocabulary and grammar to conversational techniques, you'll gain a solid foundation in this vibrant and inclusive language. An online course, with practical exercises, and assessments. Upon completion, you'll receive a recognised qualification, opening doors to diverse career opportunities and enhancing your ability to connect with the Deaf community.
MOOCs Course available to Transitus and Sixth. Autumn Term and Spring Term. This option allows you to take charge of your education by selecting a MOOC that aligns with your passions and academic goals. Explore an extensive range of subjects and gain valuable knowledge beyond traditional curricula. Embrace the freedom to design your own learning path, fostering independent thinking and self-motivation. Elevate your A Level experience with a personalized MOOC adventure tailored to your interests and future aspirations.