Curriculum Guide 2023-2025

HEADMASTER’S

INTRODUCTIONWelookforwardtocontinuing,

The Sixth Form experience is an exciting time for any student. At Whitgift, the boys’ achievements in their final two years have reached exceptional levels in the past few years, confirming Whitgift as one of the country’s leading boys schools. Academic performance is outstanding. The School also offers a rich variety of co-curricular activities, music, drama and sports, superb facilities and the tradition of a commitment to each student’s all-round development. The wide range of options and opportunities for initiative, responsibility and leadership help develop each student as an individual, preparing him for Higher Education, his future life in society and his chosen career.

Education is individually tailored in the Sixth Form to each student’s needs. Courses leading to A Level or International Baccalaureate qualifications are available, and personal advice on suitability and requirements is provided; it is crucial that every boy experiences the right set of courses for his needs.

The great majority of students in the Fifth Form reach a high standard at GCSE, enabling them to transfer, with confidence, into the Sixth Form.

for two further

crucial years, our established relationship with students and their parents – the Sixth Form is, in many respects, the best and most rewarding part of what Whitgift has to offer. We are also very pleased to welcome, each year, new entrants to our Sixth Form from other schools. Integrating quickly, they can benefit from the stimulating new surroundings and wider opportunities.

Preparation for more independent learning and living at university and beyond is also something we take very seriously. The independent sector is rightly highly respected for the quality of preparation for university, and something in which I take a close personal interest.

A scholarship programme also brings a number of very able students to the School from other countries. Financial considerations need not be a bar to entry to the School; scholarships are available, as is a generous scheme for bursaries provided by the Whitgift Foundation.

Chris Ramsey Headmaster

AN INTRODUCTION TO THE SIXTH FORM

Whitgift’s Sixth Form is, quite simply, an inspiring place to learn. The sense of dynamism is palpable; you can feel it as soon as you walk through the doors. Our Sixth Formers are ambitious, articulate, innovative, and well-rounded young people with a powerful sense of identity and strong values, brimming with self-confidence, but with their feet planted firmly on the ground.

So, what makes our Sixth Form so special? First and foremost, this is a school with a soul; a place in which a sense of heritage and modernity combine in a most compelling way. The School’s tradition of academic excellence is at the heart of everything we do, and you should expect to be consistently stretched and challenged; enquiring minds are very much the norm here! But this is no stuffy, ivory tower; Whitgift’s diversity, which truly reflects modern London, is also one of its greatest strengths, ensuring that the atmosphere is genuinely lively and stimulating.

What characterises the Sixth Form experience at Whitgift is the sheer breadth of opportunity available to students. Whether you choose International Baccalaureate (IB) or A Level is only the start of it; the range of co-curricular opportunities is exceptional and there are countless opportunities to develop your leadership skills, not least through Community Service. Whatever your talent, you will find an outlet for it here, whether in the classroom or the concert hall, on the sports field or the stage.

The Sixth Form years promise to be two of the most exciting and challenging that you will experience. You will need to balance increased independence with responsibility. The transition to adulthood isn’t always easy, but your Tutors and the Sixth Form team will be there to inspire, encourage and advise you at every stage of your educational journey. First-class university guidance will direct you towards the best future possible. Ultimately, we aim for our Sixth Formers to emerge as outstandingly-qualified, lifelong learners with the ability to make a positive difference to the world. What’s more, they make friendships and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Our Sixth Formers are ambassadors for the School and role models for the younger boys, and we are immensely proud of them.

Tom Burnside Director of Sixth Form

Entry requirements

The great majority of students enter the Sixth Form directly from the Fifth Form, a tribute to the atmosphere and spirit within the school. We also welcome students from other schools both in the surrounding area and from further afield. Every effort is made to ensure that any new entrant to Whitgift quickly becomes part of the school community and soon feels comfortable.

Admission to the Sixth Form is not automatic. Internal students entering from the Fifth Form and taking 10 GCSEs are expected to achieve at least 62 points under the GCSE grading system. Those taking 9 GCSEs require 57 points, and those taking 8 need 52. The usual requirement for external candidates is a total of 62 GCSE points from nine subjects (or equivalent). This is our current position, but it is kept under review. Certain subjects also have specific GCSE grade requirements (please refer to the Curriculum Guide), and all students should achieve a minimum of a grade 7 in the subjects they wish to pursue

Similarly,post-GCSE.students

are expected to maintain these high academic standards throughout the Sixth Form. Strong university applications require a good academic performance in the Lower Sixth year.

We recommend that applications for entry into the Sixth Form by external candidates are made early in the final GCSE year. All prospective Sixth Formers will sit two examinations (normally in subjects that they intend to study at IB or A Level), as well as a Thinking Skills paper. In addition, those applicants who are non-native speakers will sit a proficiency exam in English. Applicants will usually have an interview with representatives of the Senior Leadership and Sixth Form teams. Receipt of satisfactory references from the student’s current or previous school is also required. The Headmaster may make an unconditional offer or one conditional upon specific grades being achieved at GCSE.

Sixth Form facilities

The Sixth Form Centre is a purpose built, modern space with invaluable neighbouring facilities, including the Raeburn Library, a Quiet Study Area and a newly-refurbished café. The Library is staffed permanently and students have specific private study periods on their timetables to encourage organisation and study skills. The contemporary, bright and expansive Common Room combines areas for relaxing and socialising, whilst also providing modern facilities such as access to Wi-Fi, and tea and coffee making facilities.

Immediately adjacent to the Common Room, Quiet Study Area and Prefects’ Room are offices for the Sixth Form leadership teams comprising the Director of Sixth Form; the Senior Tutor; the Heads of Lower and Upper Sixth together with their Deputies and Assistants; the Director of IB; the Director of Partnerships and Community; the Head of Higher Education and the Sixth Form Secretary. This ensures that support and advice is always at hand.

Co-curricular activities

All students are attached to the Senior School House system. There are House competitions and events covering a wide range of sporting, cultural and artistic activities. In addition to House activities, students can involve themselves in many sports including rugby, football, hockey, cricket, athletics, badminton, climbing, crosscountry running, rowing, fencing, fives, golf, rowing, biking, badminton, shooting, squash, swimming, table tennis, tennis and water polo. In addition, students can join the Outdoor Education Programme or the Combined Cadet Force, or participate in the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme. We also operate an inspiring clubs and societies programme; those of particular interest to Sixth Form students include the Debating Society, MedSoc, Whitonomics, as well as various musical groups and drama activities.

Student leadership

Our Sixth Formers are important role models to their younger peers. There are plenty of opportunities for them to take on a leadership role soon after the beginning of the Michaelmas Term – involvement in Community Service projects or running our House drama competition with Lower School pupils, for example. A busy Student Leadership Team headed by the School Captain and his deputies have a whole school remit, working on events and collaborating on the strategic direction of the School with senior staff. Our vibrant House system is headed by a team of Upper Sixths. We also have Sports Captains, Form Reps, and mentors for younger year groups.

Sixth Form Committee

The Sixth Form Committee meets once a halfterm, with different pupils representing their form groups on each occasion. Its responsibilities include representing the views of the Sixth Form to members of staff, initiating and organising social activities, and fostering links with the world outside Whitgift.

General Studies and Enrichment Programme

General Studies is an extensive enrichment programme taken by both Upper and Lower Sixth Form A Level students. The course offers a mix of academic enrichment, vocational and skills-based workshops, as well as general life skills presentations aimed at fulfilling Whitgift’s aim of giving the best all-round education. The programme includes workshops on leadership, transition skills, team building, DIY, cooking, martial arts, first aid, sexual health, mental health, drugs & alcohol, LGBT and personal finance.

In addition to General Studies, Lower Sixth Form A Level students also participate in Ideatum lessons, which enables them to acquire and develop the attitudes and skills necessary for personal development and critical thinking.

Careers and Higher Education

Sixth Formers are provided with all the resources necessary to assist with career and Higher Education decisions. Career advice and support can be obtained through the Careers Team. The Head of Higher Education and Assistants meet with all students to discuss personal aspirations and the available routes forward. Careers events are spread throughout the year, including guest speakers and careers-related Duringvisits.

the Michaelmas Term, there is a large Careers Convention, the focus of which is to provide vocational information. This is an ideal opportunity to build on the knowledge that students have gathered to date and during work experience. For those who need it, we encourage students to take advantage of opportunities for work experience and we regularly promote external opportunities that tie in with our vacation periods.

In the Lent Term of the Lower Sixth, we begin to plan for university applications. A booklet of guidance on making applications is distributed, to accompany the ‘After Whitgift’ Information Evening for parents and students. This is the time to start selecting Higher Education options at home and internationally, as well as considering Conservatoires, degree apprenticeships and

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Trinity Term sees the beginning of the university Open Day season and students are encouraged to make individual visits. We also ask students to discuss gap years with us as early planning is recommended. Old Whitgiftians are invited back to speak to current students about their experiences, we commence preparation for university admissions tests and there is an ‘After Whitgift’ course, which concentrates on selfpresentation and making successful applications.

All students are offered the opportunity of a practice interview. All university applications are processed in the Michaelmas Term of the Upper Sixth. Candidates for Oxbridge and medical subjects necessarily have an earlier deadline. All students receive individual attention and advice from the Careers Team, Sixth Form Team, Form Tutors and subject teachers.

Community Service

Sixth Form students will be offered a range of opportunities to participate in our community programmes, and it is expected that all will do so in some capacity, as we strongly believe that part of their educational experience should be to actively ‘give back’. These programmes include opportunities which take place in curriculum time (e.g. helping at Primary Project lessons at Whitgift or visiting local primary schools to support and mentor pupils), and those outside of curriculum time (supporting pupils at our Saturday Masterclasses programme or Community Summer School). We also strongly encourage students to use their initiative to take part in community and charitable activities beyond those organised by the School and will support them in their endeavours if possible, for example through the Grant Awarding Body.

The Sixth Form Curriculum at Whitgift is based on three key principles: academic excellence, breadth and choice. There are two academic routes available, and whether a student opts for IB or A Levels, we believe the Sixth Form experience should encompass more than just the traditional academic subjects. This breadth is inherent in the IB Diploma Programme, and for A Level students it is achieved through the additional components of the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) and Community Service;

Route A – International Baccalaureate (IB)

The IB consists of six subjects studied over two years. Students opt to study three of these subjects at Higher Level (HL) for specialist depth and three subjects at Standard Level (SL) to retain breadth. The IB also has three additional elements that must be completed by all students: The Theory of Knowledge (TOK), Creativity, Action and Service (CAS) and an Extended Essay. Students choose one from each of five subject groups: English, Foreign Languages, Humanities, Sciences and Mathematics. The sixth subject is either a creative subject or an optional second subject from the Languages, Sciences or Humanities groups.

The IB Diploma is assessed by the submission of coursework and through examinations at the conclusion of the Upper Sixth year.

The IB is a widely respected and internationally recognised qualification. University Admissions Tutors are aware of the challenge and breadth that the IB provides and Diploma Programme students can be confident of being looked upon favourably. CURRICULUM

Route B – A Level

A Level students are expected to study four subjects in the first year, selected from an extensive list of subject options. In practice, most students will continue with three subjects in the Upper Sixth, although a number will complete four. We also encourage them to complete an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ); this exciting qualification gives students the opportunity to write a dissertation, conduct an investigation or produce an artefact on a topic which is entirely of their own choosing.

It is our expectation that all A Level students will leave Whitgift with at least four academic qualifications. This could be three A Levels plus EPQ, four A Levels, or four A Levels plus EPQ. Those moving to three A Level subjects in the Lower Sixth will pick up EPQ and Community Service in their vacant fourth block. Students continuing on four A Level subjects will also be able to complete the EPQ and/or Community Service. In addition to their chosen subjects, A Level students also study Ideatum and General Studies throughout the Sixth Form. These additional elements add considerable breadth as well as depth to the academic experience of our A Level students.

The following subjects are provided as full A Level courses Please note that some courses may not be available if the demand is insufficient.

Art

French

combination of Business and Economics is strongly discouraged for university applications.

EXTENDED PROJECT QUALIFICTION

A Level students also have an opportunity to complete an Extended Project Qualification in addition to their 4 A Level subjects

Why complete an EPQ?

The Extended Project qualification gives A Level students the opportunity to write a dissertation, conduct an investigation, undertake a performance or produce an artefact on a subject of entirely their own choosing. It supports students with the transition to higher education and the world of work, and provides opportunities for the development of critical, reflective, problem-solving and independent learning skills through the planning, research and evaluation of a self-selected project. It allows students to research a topic which develops their understanding of their chosen A Levels, or to choose a topic in a different area, extending the breadth of their curriculum. It is worth half an A level and earns extra UCAS points, in addition to teaching skills which are highly valued by universities and employers; indeed, a growing number of universities are giving lower offers to Sixth Formers who have completed the EPQ.

What to expect?

The course will be taught during the Lower Sixth. These lessons are in addition to the standard timetable for A Level study and students undertaking the project will need to be well organised and committed. In Michaelmas Term of the Lower Sixth, sessions will focus on broadening specific thinking skills and research techniques, whilst lessons in the subsequent terms will enable students to work on the project and record their progress on a week to week basis.

Extended Projects are different from essays, in that students are marked for the process, not just the outcome of their work. Projects will be assessed at school before being submitted for moderation. The written report (between 2000 and 6000 words) and/or other evidence of work must be accompanied by:

• A completed project log, detailing your initial ideas, plans, research methods, resources used, record of advice from supervisor, development of ideas, record of the presentation and a reflection on the process of producing the project.

• A presentation of your completed project to other students and staff either using a PowerPoint or in the form of a short lecture. This must include a question and answer element with a non-expert audience.

Entry requirements

To complete the EPQ, students need to register their interest in the qualification when they receive their GCSE results. Although an EPQ provides students with a high level of stretch and challenge, any interested students will be considered for a place on the programme.

Students can prepare for their EPQ after finishing their GCSEs by starting to think about their topic and starting to read around the subject. This will enable them to demonstrate a high level of commitment and independence before applying for the programme.

CHOOSING YOUR ROUTE

A student’s path through Sixth Form of Route A (IB Diploma) or Route B (A Level) and the important subject choices within each, should be based upon his individual ability, his interests and his ideas for university application and career. It should be noted that IB and A Level students have approximately the same number of taught periods per fortnight and all students should be spending approximately equal numbers of hours on their homework per week. Students might wish to compare the academic syllabi for their preferred subjects, consider what they enjoy and what will keep them motivated to study over two years, as well as the subjects in which they have been most successful. They might wish to maintain wider interests in addition to studying particular specialisms for university.

Students should be encouraged to discuss their future plans in as much detail as possible to ensure that they embark on a purposeful, rewarding and enjoyable Sixth Form career.

Friendly and knowledgeable support and advice for prospective Sixth Formers and their parents is available from the Sixth Form and Higher Education teams, and other senior staff. Advice on non-university options is also available. The final decision on the most appropriate rRoute must be mutually agreed by the student, his parents and the School.

To enable us to estimate staffing and timetabling requirements for the next academic year, we ask all students to make choices for their preferred route and combination of subjects in the Lent Term of the Upper Fifth year. Although some combinations of subjects will not be possible, and a course may be withdrawn if there is insufficient demand, we will use these choices as the basis for an arrangement of subjects designed to meet as many of the desired combinations as possible. We reserve the right not to allow students who change their minds to switch to a subject where teaching groups might be unacceptably large.

Example combinations

Here are some examples of possible combinations of subjects that can be studied. There are many other possible combinations and indeed you could enter any of the careers with rather different options.

Career

An aspiring medic A

HL Chemistry, Biology, Economics,ChemistryMaths,EnglishHistory,PsychologyFrench,LiteraturePhysics,Maths, Physics

English History,Literature,Philosophy

IB

SL English Literature Maths, German Maths, Spanish ab initio , Geography,EnglishEconomics,EnglishGeographyLiterature,LatinLiterature,Chinese ab initio Biology, Maths, Japanese ab initio

A Level Chemistry, Biology, Maths, Psychology History , French, Politics, Philosophy Maths, English,History,Physics,Economics,Chemistry,Physics,EconomicsMaths,GeographyEconomics,Philosophy

University Course

ClassicsChemicalChemistryManagementAccountancy,Business,BiotechnologyBiology,Zoology,Biology,BiologicalBiochemistryGraphicArchitecture/DesignSciences:Botany,AppliedMicrobiology,StudiesEngineering

Classical Civilisation/ ComputerStudies

University Course Guidance

Some university courses require specific subjects to have been studied at A Level. Other courses prefer certain subjects or subject combinations. Below is a guide to the requirements for some university courses. This is not an exhaustive list and further information can be obtained from the Careers Department. Different combinations may be expected for Oxbridge entry. Please note that combination courses are also available at many universities.

Subject choices

Some courses require Mathematics or Physics, but a wide range of subjects is possible. A design portfolio is essential. Chemistry usually supported by another science; Maths or Biology is Chemistrypreferable. and Biology are required. Maths is often preferred.

Aeronautical, Civil, Electrical, Electronic, Marine, GeologyGeographyEnglishEngineeringMechanical

Some courses require or prefer Maths. Economics or Business tend to be Chemistrypreferable. and another science are usually required. Often Mathematics is Chemistry,required. and Physics are required. Maths is often required.

Latin/Greek preferred. No language required, but subjects involving essay writing preferred, such as Classical Civilisation, English or History Maths is usually required. At Russell Group universities, Maths is required and Further Maths preferred A strong achievement in Maths is required for most courses.

A Level/HL Maths is either required or preferred at many Russell Group universities. FM is advantageous at some institutions. Maths and Physics are usually required. (Further Maths for Oxbridge)

English is usually required. Geography is usually required. Two or three subjects in science / Maths are usually required.

University Course History Studies

LawLanguages Mathematics and

Subject choices

History is usually required. Additional essay writing subjects are preferable. Essay writing studies preferred such as English or History

The chosen language is usually required and additional languages are preferred. ‘Essay’ writing subjects are useful. A language and/or Maths are favourable. Maths is required and Further Maths and/or Physics are preferable.

Chemistry and Biology are required. Maths and/or Physics are preferred.

Evidence of communication skills is desirable in a subject or from extra curricular activities. Work experience is expected.

Many courses require specific instrumental standards e.g. ABRSM 7 or 8. This varies depending on the extent to which Performance is part of the course. Two or three science subjects are required, usually including Chemistry.

A science / Maths can be an advantage.

Philosophy is preferred.

Physics and Maths are required.

Chemistry is often required and Biology, Physics and/or Maths are

Politics

VeterinaryTheologySportsSocialPsychologySciencesScienceScience

Politicspreferable.isuseful but not required.

Science subjects are often required.

Usually there are no specific requirements.

P.E. is preferable and a science subject is required for some courses. Theology/Philosophy are preferable.

Chemistry and Biology are required. Maths and/or Physics are preferred. Extensive work experience is required.

Why study Art?

Art stimulates both sides of the brain and enables students to learn to use their senses. It studentsself-esteem,promotesandgivestheconfidence to express opinions about the world around them. Art represents a culture of questioners rather than a culture of responders, and students learn that there is always more than one solution to a problem.

Students learn to think critically, as most questions regarding art do not have a specific answer. Pupils learn to come up with solutions to problems as they arise. This process hones students’ critical thinking skills, which are vital in later life.

What can I expect?

The Edexcel A level course runs over two years for Art or Graphics.

Component 1: Personal Investigation - Students explore and study a wide range of two and three dimensional techniques, integrating critical analysis and contextual research into their ideas and practical investigations. Students also complete a 3000-4000 word essay in the third term of the Lower Sixth based on an area of Art that will inform the development of their work in the second half of the course.

Component 2: Externally set assignment - This is completed in the second term of the Upper Sixth. This incorporates two major elements: preparatory studies and the 15 hour exam based on their preparatory investigations.

Visiting galleries and attending life drawing classes is also an important part of the course.

Visual Arts (IB) Higher Level: Comparative Study – Students produce 13-20 pages of studies and written analysis, comparing at least three different artworks by at least two different Processartists.

Portfolio – Students submit 13-25 pages of artwork across at least three different artmaking Exhibitionforms.–Students submit 8-11 final pieces for exhibition alongside a written rationale.

Visual Arts (IB) Standard Level: The course is run the same way as Higher Level, except students produce 10-15 pages for their Comparative Study, 9-18 pages for their Portfolio, and 4-7 pieces for the Exhibition.

Where could it lead?

For those who study Art, careers can range from Architecture to Graphic Design. Art courses can propel you towards creative and unexpected destinations. The Internet has created an explosion of opportunity for digital designers and multimedia artists. The world is filled with computers and portable electronic devices and the demand for web designers, app designers and other such roles is undergoing unprecedented growth.

Possible subject combinations

Art pairs well with all combinations of subjects. For the vast majority of university degrees, taking an Art-related subject will not disadvantage you, and shows that you have a breadth of interests.

Entry requirements

Whilst it is obviously advantageous to have studied Art or a related art course to GCSE level, we also encourage students who are very interested in the subject to take an Art-subject. It is beneficial for us to see a portfolio of any art work students have done, so that we can guide them into either Fine Art, Graphics or Photography.

Why study Biology?

Biology is the science of life and lies at the heart of major social problems that face the human race. As such, it is a subject of interest to everyone, whether they pursue it as a career or not. It is also the fastest developing science; as we venture further into the 21st century, our body of biological knowledge is expanding at a rapid pace. Studying Biology teaches us to ask questions, make observations, evaluate evidence and solve problems. The wide range of skills acquired during the study of Biology in the Sixth Form, including logical thinking, critical evaluation and data analysis is valued by both university admissions tutors and employers alike. Aside from continuing into directly biological subjects or careers, studying A Level or IB Biology is excellent preparation for studying any scientific subject at university and a wide range of scientific and non-scientific careers.

What can I expect?

At A Level students will study a range of topics including biological molecules, cells, exchange mechanisms, genetics and energy transfer between and within organisms. There are 12 formally assessed practicals and the skills learnt will be examined in the written papers at the end of course. The A Level will be assessed over three papers and will incorporate a mixture of short and long answer questions, in addition to an essay.

In IB Biology, students will study molecular and cell biology, genetics, ecology, evolution and human physiology. In addition, Higher Level students will study plant biology, metabolism, respiration and photosynthesis and advanced animal physiology. Students are assessed across three examination papers and an individual research investigation which makes up 20% of their final

Where could it lead?

Biology is a highly respected, traditional degree which allows students to develop the skills required for a number of different professions. Apart from pursuing a career in Biological or Biomedical research, the degree can provide a strong basis on which to build the skills required for several different careers, ranging from the analytic skills needed for a legal career to the mathematical and logical skills required to venture into the world of finance. Although not essential for some medical-related applications, it is highly recommended if you wish to become a doctor, dentist or vet.

Possible subject combinations Biology pairs well with Chemistry, Mathematics and Psychology.

Entry requirements

To study Biology at A Level or IB Higher Level, students require at least a grade 7 in IGCSE Biology and a grade 7 in IGCSE Mathematics. For pupils who have taken GCSE Dual Award Science, a double grade 8 is required overall, including a grade 8 in the Biology component of this course, and a grade 7 in Mathematics.

Why study Business?

Business is about problem solving within the context of specific businesses and providing solutions as to how the business could proceed. Studying Business will help you to develop a critical understanding of organisations and the markets they serve. You will develop an appreciation that business behaviour can be influenced by different stakeholders such as consumers, competitors and government. The course will help you to acquire a range of skills including decision-making and problem-solving in the context of real business situations. If you have any interest in how businesses are run, are a budding entrepreneur or have a knack for finance then this is the right course for you. The Economics and Business department at Whitgift is made up of teachers who have different backgrounds in the business world (such as HSBC, Deloitte and Procter & Gamble), which adds real context to lessons and makes the learning applicable to the real world.

What can I expect?

The A Level Business course will require students to develop a range of important and transferable skills including data skills, presenting arguments, making judgments and conducting research and will be assessed by three exams at the end of two years. In the first year students will explore marketing and the people within a business, as well as investigating entrepreneurs and business start-ups. They will consider questions such as: How do businesses compete with each other? How important is the rise of social media to businesses? How do businesses motivate their staff? Students will also explore the finances of a business and how they operate, as well as the external influences on

In the second year we look more at business strategy, enabling students to take a strategic view of business opportunities and issues. We will look at the objectives of a business and how businesses grow and explore what determines the success of an investment or a project. Students will investigate businesses that trade on a global scale and explore their reasons for doing so. They will then develop an understanding of the globally competitive environment and will consider questions such as what has driven the growth of Asia, South Africa and the UK? What has driven the world to become a more global market? How can businesses compete on a global scale?

Where could it lead?

These courses provide an invaluable insight into the world of business and commerce for those wishing to enter areas such as Management, Marketing, Human Resources, Accounting and Finance at university and beyond.

Possible subject combinations

Business blends well with many subjects from Mathematics to humanities: History, Politics, English, and Geography. Languages also complement this subject as there is the potential to go on to study international business or joint honour degrees in Business and a language at university.

Entry requirements

As long as the entry requirements for the Sixth Form are met, students will be able to study A Level Business. An enthusiasm for current affairs and the business world is encouraged.

Why study Chemistry?

Chemistry helps you to develop research, problem solving and analytical skills. It helps you to challenge ideas and shows you how to work things out through logic and step-by-step reasoning. Chemistry often requires teamwork and communication skills too, which is great for project management.

Sixth Form Chemistry covers a wide range of topics that will interest and challenge students. Academic study is combined with practical investigations. You will develop your knowledge base of Chemistry and learn about a range of analytical and investigative skills.

The course (both A Level and IB) is split into three topics: physical, inorganic and organic chemistry. Within these three main topics we cover material including kinetics, thermodynamics, periodicity, properties of Group 3 elements, optical isomerism, and polymers. At IB you also study an additional topic on Medicinal Chemistry.

What can I expect?

We follow the AQA A Level Chemistry course. This is a two year course with no written coursework. Assessment is in the form of three written exams taken in the Upper Sixth, and a continuous assessment of practical skills which form the basis of the Practical Endorsement.

The IB course is assessed through three written papers – two on the core chemistry material and one on the option topic material, and a piece of coursework. The coursework takes the form of an Internal Assessment practical after completing the internal exams in the Trinity Term of the Lower

Where could it lead?

Chemistry is an important subject for careers in: medicine, environmental science, engineering, toxicology, developing consumer products, metallurgy (studying how metals behave), space exploration, developing perfumes and cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, energy, teaching, science writing, software development and research.

Possible subject combinations

Many combinations of subjects can be enhanced by studying Chemistry. Chemistry complements Maths, Physics and Biology particularly well.

Entry requirements

To study Chemistry at A Level or IB Higher Level, students require at least a grade 7 in IGCSE Chemistry and a grade 7 in IGCSE Mathematics. For pupils who have taken GCSE Dual Award

Science, a double grade 8 is required overall, including a grade 8 in the Chemistry component of this course, and a grade 7 in Mathematics.

CLASSICAL CIVILISATION

Why study Classical Civilisation?

Classical Civilisation offers the chance to study the dazzling literature, culture and philosophy of the Ancient Greeks and Romans without prior knowledge of Latin or Classical Greek. Students will be immersed in the world of gods and heroes by way of Homer and Virgil’s grand epics (all in translation), as well as covering a range of fascinating topics such as the development of democracy in Athens, or the assassination of Julius Caesar and eventual crumbling of the Roman Republic. Students can discover how the diminutive Greek city states resisted the Persian threat and the greatest army the world has ever known, or experience the theatre of Ancient Athens by way of its tragedy and comedy. Study of the ancient world helps us acquire an understanding of our own society, history, and culture, and develops skills of critical evaluation and analysis.

What can I expect?

Classical Civilisation is only available for study at A Level. The course comprises three components: the world of the hero, culture and the arts, and beliefs and ideas. All three components are studied through a range of primary sources encompassing aspects of literature, visual/material culture and classical thought. Students will study a range of evidence for each component and are required to understand, interpret, evaluate and analyse the sources in their social and historical context. There is no coursework to complete and all components are examined at the end of the two year course by way of three individual exams. The exams comprise essay questions and a selection of shorter ‘gobbet’ style questions designed to test the students’ ability to respond critically to sources.

Where could it lead?

Classical Civilisation is very well regarded by universities. It lends itself very well to continued study of Classics at university, but can equally lead to a variety of other humanities subjects including English, History, Drama, History of Art, Philosophy and Politics.

Possible subject combinations

As Edith Hall, Classics Professor at KCL suggests, ‘It’s a perfect A Level to do with any other subject because the Greeks invented all academic disciplines.’ Perhaps its most common allies however are the other humanities, including English, History, Art, Drama, Philosophy, and Politics.

Entry requirements

There are no particular prerequisites for studying Classical Civilisation. No knowledge of ancient languages is required as all material is studied in translation; an interest in the ancient world and its culture is all you need.

COMPUTER SCIENCE

Why study Computer Science?

Computing and computer technology are part of just about everything that touches our lives from the cars we drive, to the movies we watch, to the ways businesses and governments operate. Understanding different dimensions of computing is part of the necessary skill set for the 21st century. Whether you want to be a scientist, develop the latest killer app, or just know what it really means when someone says “the computer made a mistake”, studying Computing will provide you with valuable knowledge.

Computing couples well with logical subjects such as Mathematics and Physics. In fact, Computing drives innovation in the sciences (e.g. the human genome project, AIDS vaccine research, environmental monitoring and protection) and also in engineering, business, entertainment and education. You will learn how to make a computer behave how you want – this might be making a robot move something from one end of a room to another, it might be making a calculation which saves someone’s life in a medical ward, or it could be creating a whole new world through building pictures or sound.

Students with a computing background will have strong problem-solving skills, allowing them to break problems down into parts, look at possible solutions and develop the most effective one. Computer scientists are some of the most in demand graduates and almost all jobs of the future will be affected by computing; those who can control and develop these technologies will be highly employable and well paid. Even if you don’t follow the route into a computing specific profession, you will be equipped with lifelong skills that you can use in a whole variety of jobs: from management to consulting, from programming to information systems administration, from IT companies to any company, large or small.

What can I expect?

A Level and IB Computer Science are split into two main strands,one based on algorithms and problem solving and one on wider theory, with

teaching time split equally. Students are expected to be self-sufficient when programming and to be willing to research possible solutions to scenarios themselves. It is also imperative that students understand that the exercises given are based on recently taught concepts, but also from concepts taught earlier in the course.

A Level and IB Topics include: information; communication and internet; hardware; system software; security and privacy; ethics; database and data modelling; algorithm design and problemsolving; software development; computational thinking; algorithm design methods; and object-oriented programming.

The A Level course is assessed through four papers. Two written papers are sat at the end of the first year of the course, with a written paper and a practical paper sat at the end of the second year of the course.

The IB course is assessed through three written papers (one each on the core computing material, the optional topics, and a preseen case study) and an internal assessment/project. The internal assessment takes the form of a practical with a linked written report.

Where could it lead?

A third of graduates in employment in the UK six months after graduation are working as programmers and software development professionals. Seven of the top ten graduate jobs are related to computer sciences. Future careers can include: software engineer, project management, web developer, app development, database administrator, games developer, business analyst, data analyst, and IT consultant.

Possible subject combinations Mathematics and Physics

Entry requirements

Grade 7 or better is required in Computing and IGCSE Mathematics. If Computing was not taken at GCSE then a grade 7 or above in IGCSE Mathematics is needed.

DESIGN, TECHNOLOGY & ENGINEERING

Why study Design & Technology?

Design and Technology opens the door to a wide range of careers in the creative, engineering and manufacturing industries. It teaches pupils time management and allows them experience of tackling real world problems and liaising with clients. It teaches students about the world they live in and gives them the tools needed to solve problems and evaluate their outcomes. In careers that are using rapidly developing technologies it will provide students with the skills sought by higher education and employers.

What can I expect?

The new A Level specification has been modernised and includes the very latest design, materials and technology thinking. Students will investigate historical, social, cultural, environmental and economic influences on design and technology, whilst enjoying opportunities to put their learning in to practice by producing products of their choice.

The course is assessed through 2 examination papers, which make up 50% of the final grade, alongside coursework, which makes up the second 50%. The exams will look at topics such as a deep understanding of resistant materials; commercial manufacturing techniques; socioeconomic influences on design; inclusive and iterative design;business enterprise; crowdfunding; marketing; smart materials; virtual modelling and CAD/CAM, feasibility studies and the legal aspects of protecting intellectual rights, copyright and health and safety.

The coursework aspect is focussed on the Upper Sixth and will be a major design, make, evaluate project. Students will need to produce a portfolio of evidence and make a prototype of their solution. It is expected to take about 45 hours and should be no longer than 45 A3 pages.

The A Level course challenges students to solve real world problems, work in a team, develop time management skills and see the possibilities that design and creativity provide in the modern world.

Where could it lead? Engineering, Product and Industrial design and Architecture are the most regular university routes. The breadth of skills and knowledge provides scope for everyone from surgeons to jewellery makers, materials and electronic specialists and even those thinking of setting up their own design business.

Possible subject combinations

Mathematics and Physics are recommended. Chemistry, Economics, Business, Computer Science, Art and Geography will also complement the skills required.

Entry requirements

There are no prerequisites to study the course. However, it is strongly recommended that the student has achieved at least a grade 5 or 6 at GCSE level.

DRAMA & THEATRE STUDIES

Why study Drama?

Drama offers a judicious and exciting mix of the practical, the theoretical and the academic. As a subject with a high proportion of written work, it is excellent preparation for university study, and the group performance elements develop valuable skills in teamwork, empathy, creativity, responsibility and organisation.

It is also important to note that many universities now explicitly state their preference for ‘breadth’ in students’ Sixth Form education, and recommend that Arts subjects are taken alongside contrasting subjects in order to maintain a wider outlook on life. Drama provides an excellent contrast to subjects that are grounded solely in academic theory.

What can I expect?

At A Level, you will study Drama and Theatre (AQA specification), which is assessed in three ways: performances, written coursework and a written exam. Over the two years, you will study at least five different texts (three for performance and two for the exam) and a range of dramatic styles and practitioners. The two pieces of written coursework are reflective and evaluative, based on the performance work you have done. The written exam will require you to respond to a piece of live theatre that you have seen (regular theatre trips are organised to prepare students for this) and write about two contrasting play texts in terms of performance and design.

IB Theatre (Higher or Standard Level) is assessed through performance, coursework and an oral presentation. You will study theatre practitioners, world theatre traditions and methods for devising, as well as coming up with a full directorial concept for a play text of your choice. There is both individual and group work at both Higher and Standard Levels, with the Higher Level course including an additional solo performance based on a theatre theorist.

IB Literature and Performance (Standard Level) is an exciting combination of English and Drama, which is assessed through performance, coursework, an oral presentation and exams. You will study at least five texts (drama, poetry and prose), some of which you will reimagine as performances and some of which you will analyse in a literary style. You will be assessed through one performance, one oral, one piece of coursework and two written exams.

Where could it lead?

Students may opt for drama school or a university degree in Drama in order to pursue a career in the theatre industry; however, this is not the only path forward from an A Level or IB Drama qualification. Drama complements degrees in English, philosophy, psychology and classics. Careers in law, journalism, politics and education also benefit from a study of Drama.

Other subjects

Drama pairs well with other essay- and textbased subjects like English Literature, Classics, Philosophy and History. It also works well as a contrasting subject if maths or science subjects are predominantly chosen.

Prerequisites

GCSE Drama is not a requirement for Drama, but significant interest and experience in theatre and performance is expected.

ECONOMICS

Why study Economics?

Economics is an challenging,intellectuallyexciting and dynamic subject. It is the science of choice. The department at Whitgift is made up of teachers who have different backgrounds in the business world (HSBC, Procter & Gamble) and lead engaging lessons, adding real world context to make the learning in-line with current affairs.

Through the study of decision-making by consumers, businesses and governments, students will gain a fantastic insight into the world. The modern world has changed so much in the last decade as a result of a global financial crisis, technological progress and political change. The study of Economics can help students to understand these changes as well as helping them to understand what the future might look like. Challenging economic concepts and theories are made accessible to you through the use of video clips, new articles and interactive challenges and research using the school iPads.

What can I expect?

Students are assessed in three exams containing a combination of multiple choice, data response and essay questions. Students will cover both micro and macroeconomic topics during the course. Macroeconomic topics in the first year focus on the performance of the UK economy and looks at areas such as unemployment, inflation, changes in interest rates and government policies. In the second year we will look at the broader global context covering topics such as globalisation, international trade and economic development – looking at why some countries are richer and more developed than others. For the micro side of the course we study the theories of how markets work and why they fail and the behaviour of firms in different market structures.

The IB course is broadly similar, with a little more focus on looking at theory in an international context throughout the course. Standard level students will take two exams at the end of two years, with Higher Level students taking an additional paper focused on economic policies. Coursework makes up 30% (SL) or 20% (HL) of the overall grade. In the coursework component, students choose three articles and analyse them using economic theory.

Where could it lead?

You will develop a wide range of skills that universities and future employers value greatly, including the ability to analyse and interpret qualitative and quantitative data; communicate concisely; think critically and solve problems; apply literary and ICT skills.

Economics is a popular subject choice, which is not surprising given the number of doors it can open: from law to finance, consultancy, accountancy, business and politics. Equally it can help further careers and degrees in development and humanitarian work too.

Possible subject combinations

As a social science, Economics blends well with Mathematics and the sciences, to humanities: History, Politics, English and Geography. Students who wish to study Economics at university must study Mathematics. Further Maths is recommended for those wishing to apply to LSE and Cambridge for Economics.

Entry requirements

Pupils must have a grade 7 at IGCSE Maths. IGCSE Economics is NOT required in order to study the subject at A Level or IB.

LITERATURE

Why study English Literature?

If you have a love of books, poetry, or the theatre, an aptitude for critical reading, and an agile mind, you are sure to enjoy English Literature. This is the side of English that deals with the study of novels, poetry and drama. We will explore the impact of culture on literature and vice versa; it is an ideal place to bring your own interests to bear. You can use your knowledge of history, psychology, philosophy and classical literature in StudyingEnglish.

English Literature is a combination of creativity and rigour – you will be encouraged to come up with your own ideas, and justify them through discussion and debate. You will also learn to write well – rigorous, intellectual, well founded argument forms the basis of your work.

What can I expect?

A Level Literature involves the study of a wide variety of texts; Shakespeare, drama and poetry from pre-1900, American literature and modern texts. 20% of your marks come from coursework.

IB Literature is even wider in its scope, involving oral components, literature in translation and the study of alternative forms of writing like the graphic novel. Oral presentations are a significant aspect of the course, with a short coursework essay for Higher Level.

You are encouraged to engage with theatre trips and residential trips, notably an annual visit to the Lake District to study the works of the Romantic

Where could it lead?

English is one of the most respected and versatile degrees that you can study. It demonstrates critical abilities which are valuable in any course of life and does not limit you to any one particular career. It is a foundation for many careers; the law, media and journalism are obvious choices, but any career which requires analytical thought and precise communication will see value in English Literature, including consultancy, academia, banking and publishing, to name but a few.

Possible subject combinations

English goes well with any number of subjects. Its natural bedfellows are other essay-based subjects; History, Theology and Philosophy, Economics. However, it also makes an excellent adjunct to other subjects – the ability to write in long form is very attractive for universities and employers.

Entry requirements

There are no prerequisites to the subject at A Level.

ENVIRONMENTAL SYSTEMS & SOCIETIES ONLY)

Why study Environmental Systems & Societies (ESS)?

Why have rhinos received such attention from conservationists? Can we keep fishing forever? What killed the dinosaurs? What will the human population be in 2100? Should we reintroduce wolves to EnvironmentalBritain?science

is an interdisciplinary academic field that integrates physical and biological sciences (including physics, chemistry, biology, soil science, geology and geography) to the study of the environment, and the solution of environmental problems. Environmental science provides an integrated, quantitative, and interdisciplinary approach to the study of environmental systems.

What can I expect?

You’ll learn through real-world case studies, news and literature research, rather than the theoretical derivations and empirical experiments of Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Modules include ecosystems and ecology, biodiversity and conservation, water and aquatic food production, soil systems and terrestrial food production, the atmosphere, climate change and energy production, and human systems and resource use.

Where could it lead?

We are excited to offer this course, new to Whitgift in 2021, and are seeking a cohort of IB historians, philosophers, economists, psychologists and geographers who would like to understand more about our environment and the big questions our society is facing.

Possible subject combinations

ESS is located in Group 4 and can be taken with any Languages, Individuals & Societies, Sciences, Mathematics and Arts subjects. It is offered at Standard Level only.

Entry requirements

There are no entry requirements, except that you take the IB Diploma. Please contact Mr Calvert or Miss Mitchell for more information.

GEOGRAPHY

Why study Geography?

Studying Geography in the Sixth Form encourages students to gain enjoyment, satisfaction and a sense of achievement as they develop their knowledge and understanding of the subject. The A Level and IB courses will enable students to be inspired by their geographical understanding, to engage critically with real world issues and places, and to apply their geographical knowledge, theory and skills to the world around them. Students will grow as independent thinkers and as informed and engaged citizens. They will understand the role and importance of geography as one of the key disciplines relevant to understanding the world’s changing peoples, places and environments.

What can I expect?

The Geography A level is a linear course taught over two years, with three summative exams to be taken at the end of the second year. Field work is an important element with a minimum of four days required in both human and physical environments. Students will also undertake an independent investigation which accounts for 20% of their total A Level.

The IB syllabus requires two pieces of coursework (both HL and SL) to be completed. Much of the fieldwork for these essays will be done in conjunction with the A Level fieldwork in a residential visit in locations such as Devon or Dorset. The Extended Essay, a piece of work of 4000 words, can be on a geographical theme; in fact Geography has proved to be one of the consistently popular areas in which to do this work.

Where could it lead?

Geography combines well with both arts and science subjects. It can lead you onto degrees in Geography, Geology and Earth Sciences. It also complements careers in the world of business; an understanding of global economics forms an important part of Geography. If students are thinking of a career in law, human rights, international relations or welfare then Geography provides the opportunity to consider relevant issues too.

Possible subject combinations Biology, Chemistry, Economics, History and Politics.

Entry Requirements

It is strongly recommended that students should have achieved a grade 7 at GCSE.

HISTORY

Why study History?

There are clear reasons why History has been a leading academic discipline for thousands of years. Its content is endlessly fascinating for the inquisitive mind, varying from the political ideologies that transformed whole continents to famines that led to the brutal demise of millions of individual lives. More than that, it is the context that will give depth to your understanding of every political, social, cultural and economic dimension of the modern world.

In an age in which vast quantities of information are readily available online, History will teach you how to research, synthesise, prioritise and evaluate complex evidence with finesse.

In addition you will learn how to make cogent arguments, articulate your thoughts clearly and express yourself in a compelling manner.

In addition, you will learn how to make cogent arguments, articulate your thoughts clearly and express yourself in a compelling manner.

What can I expect?

A Level History comprises three examined units and one coursework component:

Unit 1: Russia 1917-1991, which looks at the rise and fall of Communist Russia from Lenin to Yeltsin.

Unit 2: China 1949-1976, which comprises a study in depth of the transformation of Communist China in the years 1949-1976.

Unit 3: British experience of warfare, c17891918. This unit explores the British experience of war in the most significant conflicts of the past 200 years.

Unit 4: Coursework; an independent enquiry on historical interpretations.

The IB History course aims to stretch, challenge and stimulate students. At Higher Level, the course is examined through three exams and a Historical Examination, and at SL there are two exams plus a Historical Investigation. The first paper focuses on the move to global war. This is a case study-based exam exploring inter-war Italian and German expansionism, and Japanese expansionism between 1931-1941. The second paper explores authoritarian states in the 20th century, and causes and effects of 20th century wars. We will study the dictatorships of Hitler, Stalin, Mussolini and Mao, and 20th century wars including the First World War; the Spanish Civil War and the Falklands War. The final paper looks at selected themes from the History of Europe: Italy 1815-1871; Germany 1815-1890; Imperial Russia, revolution and the establishment of the Soviet Union 1855-1924; Europe and the First World War 1871-1918, and European states in inter-war Europe 1918-1939.

Where could it lead?

As well as enabling you to study History to a higher level, the subject opens doors to many of the most popular university choices, such as PPE, Law and more. It is an impressive subject on any university application. Beyond university it can lead to many careers in areas such as politics, research, law and the Foreign Office.

Possible subject combinations

History is most commonly combined with subjects such as Politics, English, Philosophy, and Modern Languages, but can also been combined very successfully with Mathematics and Economics.

Entry requirements

There are no GCSE grade requirements, but a willingness to read and a wish to study History is a real prerequisite.

Why study Languages?

Modern languages are the gateway to a better, brighter future; your knowledge of a specific language will give you opportunities to live and work in a variety of non-English-speaking environments as well as opening your eyes to different views of the world. The values of tolerance, openness, inquisitiveness and flexibility are all fostered by learning a language. It is also like taking your brain to the gym – the cognitive benefits will impact positively on your other subjects! Languages are an excellent facilitating subject for degrees both in the Sciences and Humanities, as well as making an excellent degree option in themselves.

What can I expect?

We offer all of our languages within the IB (Mandarin Chinese and Japanese as Standard Level only). German, French and Spanish follow the AQA A-Level, whilst in Chinese we follow the Edexcel A-level course. Japanese is only offered as an IB option.

By the end of the Sixth Form you will have covered all the major grammar points of your language and be approaching fluency. You will have read, written and spoken about contemporary social issues, historical events and literature from the culture whose language you are studying. Your analytical, debating and essay-writing skills will have all improved.

Whether IB or A-Level, you will be assessed in the four skills and also on your study of literature or film.

None of the qualifications currently contain coursework as such, although you will be expected to conduct some independent research for the oral

Within the IB you also have the option of taking a language ab initio (from scratch). This is a good option for those who feel they are not so strong or do not enjoy their current GCSE languages.

Your timetabled lessons with teachers will be complemented by weekly oral sessions with our language assistants, and trips abroad are generally run on a biennial basis.

If you are already proficient in a language (even one we do not teach e.g. Russian), it may be possible to sit the examinations with some tailored support, but without having timetabled lessons. Please contact Mr Hunt, Head of Languages, if you would like to explore this option, ajh@whitgift.co.uk

Where could it lead?

Languages are excellent facilitating subjects for a wide range of subjects in the Arts and Sciences. Languages degrees are generally literature-based whilst Oriental Languages degrees generally include more History, Philosophy and Cultural Studies alongside the language. It is possible to study exciting languages from scratch at university (e.g. Arabic, Turkish, Persian) as long as you are studying a language in the Sixth Form.

Languages degrees are highly thought of and languages graduates often go on to work in banking, management consultancy, the civil service, Law (following a conversion course), advertising, journalism, aid work, academia or computer programming (particularly after degrees with a linguistics component).

In the last five years 10 Whitgift pupils have been accepted at Oxford and Cambridge to read Modern Languages degrees.

Possible subject combinations

Languages combine well with any subject. Traditional combinations include Philosophy and a language, English and a language or Classics and a language, but increasingly Science and Economics degrees can be combined with languages too.

Entry requirements

You will need a grade 7 at GCSE in order to study a language in the Sixth Form, unless the language is at IB SL or ab initio level, in which case there is no grade requirement.

LATIN/GREEK

Why study Latin or Greek?

Latin and Greek involve much more than the study of two dead languages. They offer a broad and balanced education in language, literature and civilisation with each of these three areas imparting distinctive skills and knowledge and creating enjoyment and interest of enduring, lifeenriching relevance. Both subjects are also viewed extremely favourably by universities and future employers; in an increasingly competitive market, they serve as easy differentiators between the merely very good and the exceptional. As Richard Dawkins puts it, ‘what Classics has always done is just teach people how to think.’

What can I expect?

Both subjects can be taken at A Level or IB (Standard or Higher Level). The courses are fundamentally very similar, with distinct language and literature components, but there are some key differences. For IB, students can expect to study two ‘genres’ (e.g. epic, love elegy, history etc.) usually via a range of authors. For the language component students follow a two year course building on their GCSE knowledge with a view to tackling unseen work by either Ovid or Cicero for Latin, and Xenophon for Greek. Additionally for IB there is an Internal Assessment, which comprises a small piece of research on a topic of the students’ choosing taken from anywhere within the classical world. A Level Latin and Greek make the distinction between prose and verse. For the language component, all students are required to complete an unseen translation by Ovid for Latin verse, Euripides for Greek verse. Livy for Latin prose, Thucydides for Greek. The second language paper offers a choice between prose composition (translation of English into Latin/Greek) or a comprehension on a further passage of prose.

For the Literature component of both languages students study between two and four authors for both prose and verse (fewer authors equates to greater breadth and depth of study).

Where could it lead?

Both languages bestow an extraordinary range of transferable skills on their students. As such their applications are vast and varied. The most obvious path is towards Classics at university, itself an extremely highly prized degree, but the subjects lend themselves equally well to all humanities and in turn to a variety of sectors including the arts, finance, law, consultancy, journalism, and politics.

Possible subject combinations

The most obvious complementary subjects are History, English, Philosophy, and Modern Languages. However students of the sciences often opt for Latin or Greek as their ‘fourth’ option to add variety and that all-important UCAS differentiator.

Entry requirements

A grade 7-9 at GCSE in the respective language is strongly advised for continued study in the Sixth Form.

MATHEMATICS

Why study Mathematics?

You relish the challenge of solving problems. You are able to think creatively and strategically. You can present clearly structured solutions. You enjoy the language of algebra and are interested in seeing and being able to produce rigorous mathematical proofs. You want to understand more behind topics such as calculus and trigonometry, where IGCSE barely scratches the surface. You seek to develop the tools required to process and interpret data. You appreciate that Mathematics has a huge variety of applications and would like to gain an insight into how it is used to model the world around us. You know that it is an intellectually demanding subject and that Mathematics qualifications are highly regarded by universities and employers alike, irrespective of your chosen career direction.

Mathematics in the IB Mathematics is a compulsory element of the IB and students taking this route must consider carefully which course is most appropriate to them. Students will have the choice of a Standard Level (SL) course or a Higher Level (HL) course.

Mathematics at SL will have emphasis on Pure Mathematics and the course covers number, trigonometry, functions and calculus, to name a few topics. There is also a focus on solving practical problems that describe the real world, alongside exploring mathematical models. Assessment is by two written papers and one exploration Mathematicsproject.atHL

is designed for students with a strong background in Mathematics; in practice this means that they are likely to be in one of the top sets in the Fifth Form. The emphasis is on

pure mathematics and the course covers algebra, calculus, trigonometry, the exponential function, complex numbers, proof and vector geometry. Assessment is by three written papers and one exploration project.

Mathematics A Level

You will expand your GCSE knowledge in topics such as trigonometry, geometry and algebra and gain the ability to manipulate figures while using abstract reasoning and logic. You will meet new topics such as integration, analysis of data and trends in statistics, and modelling the behaviour of particles in mechanics show how the concepts can be used in real life situations. The new linear course has a greater emphasis on problem solving, reasoning, modelling and use of technology, including the statistical analysis of a large data set. Assessment will take place at the end of the Upper Sixth with three papers. There is no coursework element.

Further Mathematics A Level is recommended to able candidates from the top sets in the Fifth Form, and is taken in addition to A Level Mathematics. It develops the areas of pure maths, mechanics and statistics covered in the A Level course, and also explores the discipline of decision maths. More sophisticated techniques are developed and many more links can be seen between different areas of Mathematics because of the greater depth and breadth of study.

Further Mathematics introduces new concepts such as matrices and complex numbers that are vital in so many Mathematics rich degrees. Assessment will take place at the end of the Upper Sixth with three additional papers on top of the three Maths A Level papers. There is no coursework element.

Where could it lead?

Mathematics forms the basis of many fields of study in Engineering and the Physical Sciences, and is therefore a prerequisite for further development in these areas. The breadth of the applicability of Mathematics is enormous, and it is increasingly used to solve complex problems of management and finance, particularly in industry, and also for research in Economics, Geography and the Biological Sciences. For the most able Mathematicians, studying Further Mathematics is excellent preparation for University if you wish to study any mathematics-related subject, as well as of course Mathematics itself.

Possible subject combinations

Maths complements a wide variety of different subjects, from science subjects to humanities.

Prerequisites

Mathematics A Level is a challenging subject; the standard requirement is a grade 8 in IGCSE ForMathematics.thoselooking to study Further Mathematics or IB HL Mathematics, a sound understanding of the material covered in the OCR Additional Maths FSMQ course (or equivalent) is also expected.

MUSIC

Why study Music?

The study of Music gives students the opportunity to explore the huge diversity of music throughout the world, developing perceptual skills through a breadth of musical experiences. By focusing on a skills-based approach to listening and an open-minded, inquisitive approach to contextualising music, students are encouraged to make connections between musical cultures. They can then reflect on what this tells them about themselves and how it can deepen their musicianship as composers and performers. Studying Music in the Sixth Form will also help students to develop their thinking skills, promoting self-awareness and confidence in their own abilities.

What can I expect?

There is some crossover between A level and IB Music, since both courses amalgamate the core musical skills of appraising/perception, performing and composing/creating. However, there are significant differences in the delivery and process. At A level, students develop aural and analysis skills through the study of 13 varied set works and related pieces, divided into six areas of study. This culminates in a listening exam at the end of the course. Performing and composing are externally examined coursework units. Students submit a recording of a c.10 minute recital and create both an original composition and a stylistic techniques exercise. By contrast, the IB course is 100% coursework and is more open-ended. The students’ roles

as researchers, performers and creators are developed through various processes: exploring music in context; experimenting with music; and presenting music. Students engage with diverse musical material through four areas of inquiry (three for SL). Through the exploration and inquiry into personal, local and global contexts, students engage with both familiar and unfamiliar music.

Where could it lead?

If you wish to study Music at Higher Education, then A Level or Higher Level IB Music is necessary. It is also often required for Popular Music courses and for Music Technology courses. Musicians’ skills of collaboration, discipline and analytical thinking are attractive to employers.

Possible subject combinations Music will complement any set of subjects since it requires confidence, clarity of thought, rigour of practice and analytical thinking.

Entry Requirements

A Level candidates should aim to be of Grade 7 standard or higher. Although Music IB does not prescribe a level of difficulty for performing, it is expected that any student wishing to pursue the course will have at least Grade 5 before commencing.

PHYSICAL

Why study Physical Education?

EDUCATION2.

If you have a genuine passion for sport and wish to gain a deeper insight into the multi-faceted field of study that is Sport Science, then Physical Education is for you. Sport provides so many fantastic opportunities for Whitgift students. The A Level course provides students with an opportunity to learn about the biological, psychological and sociological elements of Physical StudyingEducation.PhysicalEducation

will give you the academic basis upon which to reflect and improve upon your own sports performance, as well as allowing you to develop a number of transferrable skills.

What can I expect?

At A Level, performance in Physical Activity makes up 30% of the overall grade. The theory element makes up the remaining 70% and includes three key areas of study:

1. Physiological factors affecting performance, which focuses on developing the learner’s knowledge of the science behind physical activity. This includes the structure and function of key systems in the human body, the forces that act upon us and the adaptations we make to our bodies through diet and training regimes.

Psychological factors affecting performance, which looks at how different methods of training and feedback work and why their effectiveness differs from person to person. It also includes psychological factors affecting group dynamics and the effects of leadership and stress on 3.performers.Sociocultural

issues in Physical Activity and Sport looks at how sociological and contemporary issues influence and affect physical activity and sport for both the audience and the performer and how sport affects society. It includes the emergence and evolution of modern sport and how social and cultural factors shaped the characteristics of sports and pastimes in pre-industrial and post-industrial Britain.

Where could it lead?

Universities offer degrees across the spectrum of disciplines in Sport Science. The A Level scratches the surface of potential routes for further education and sport science degrees provide numerous opportunities to continue playing sport alongside your studies and can lead to numerous opportunities in the world of work.

Possible subject combinations Biology, Physics, Chemistry and Psychology.

Entry requirements

GCSE Physical Education at no less than A standard; ideally a grade 7 on the GCSE Theory element (Exam paper); one sport at 1st Team school level or equivalent; any individuals who have not studied PE at GCSE level will be considered on an individual basis and will depend on level of practical ability and GCSE science grades.

PHYSICS

Why study Physics?

Physics has no limits – we study everything from fundamental particles to cosmology. Without Physics, the gadgets, Internet and electricity supply that we take for granted wouldn’t be here. Physics also deals with the big questions: Is the universe infinite or finite? Why do we always find the smallest bits of cereal at the bottom of the packet? Can we use technology to increase life expectancy? Whether your motivation is to think beyond boundaries or to open the door to well-paid careers, the knowledge and skills you gain by studying Physics will be useful. The lab skills, applications of Mathematics, insights into modelling and knowledge of instrumentation developed through a study of Physics are applicable to a wide range of university courses and careers.

What can I expect?

Many of the topics covered in Physics will be familiar from IGCSE, but study in both A Level and IB will broaden understanding of more contemporary research in Particles and Quantum Physics. New topics will also stretch students’ problem-solving and conceptualisation skills, particularly in the fields and materials courses. Both Sixth Form courses are heavily grounded in Mathematics. The final applied section of the course will be in Astrophysics for A Level students, whereas IB students will select a topic in conjunction with their strengths.

In A Level the examination assesses all content from the two years in three papers, one of which has a focus on practical skills and data analysis. All students need to complete 12 key practicals, which expose them to apparatus and experimental techniques that may be examined in the form of longer answer questions in the examinations.

Both Higher and Standard Level IB are assessed through three written exams. Physicists are required to maintain a logbook of investigative work and to carry out an Internal Assessment (IA) which makes up 20% of the course. The IA is an individual project in which the student designs and carries out a full investigation and write- up similar in style to an undergraduate lab report.

Where could it lead?

Many students taking Physics continue to study the experimental and theoretical physical sciences or apply their understanding in engineering. Physicists are also highly sought after in meteorology, astronomy, media production and architecture. Energy resources, medical physics and computing are growing fields and will present opportunities for innovation in the future.

Possible subject combinations

At least 40% of the Physics course will require the use of mathematical skills. A Level physicists are strongly advised to study AL Mathematics with an emphasis on Mechanics.

Entry Requirements

To study Physics at A Level or IB, students require at least a grade 7 in IGCSE Physics and a grade 7 in IGCSE Mathematics. Pupils who have taken GCSE Dual Award Science require a double grade 8, including a grade 8 in the Physics component of this course, and a grade 7 in Mathematics.

Why study Politics?

Politics is essentially a study of the complex interplay between political institutions, individuals, ideas and events, which provides a broad and deep understanding of the ways in which human beings choose to organise complex social Politicsaffairs.helps

individuals understand the world around them; everything from the morality of war to the merits of progressive income tax.

The study of Politics has never been more useful, necessary and interesting in the wake of the ‘Brexit’ decision, the onset of the Trump presidency, and the rise of the ‘rest’ against the ‘West’.

What can I expect?

Students will study the Politics of the United Kingdom in the Lower Sixth, and American Government and Politics in the Upper Sixth.

The course will investigate UK politics and core political ideas, including democracy and participation, political parties, electoral systems, voting behaviour and the media. In addition we will look at the UK Government and optional political ideas will assess the constitution, parliament, Prime Minister and executive, and relationships between the branches. We will also assess UK and USA comparative politics, including the US Constitution and federalism, US Congress, US Presidency, US Supreme Court and civil rights, democracy and participation and comparative

The A Level Politics course aims to challenge students’ preconceptions about the nature of politics and build a deeper appreciation for the ideas, institutions and conventions that underpin the democracies of the United Kingdom and the United States of America. Although the focus is on contemporary twenty first century Anglo-American political developments, the course offers a broad and critical analysis of the development of the two political systems. We teach Politics through debates, classroom discussions, academic seminars and investigations

Where could it lead?

A respected subject among the competitive top Russell Group universities (e.g. Oxford, Cambridge, Durham), A Level Politics would prepare students for a range of different degree subjects at university (e.g. History and Politics; Politics, Philosophy and Economics; Human and Social Political Sciences) and a range of different career routes (e.g. legal, academic, journalistic professions).

Possible subject combinations

History, English Literature, Economics, Geography, Mathematics, Philosophy and Ethics.

Entry Requirements

There are no prerequisites for the course, although there is a standard expectation that you (will) follow current affairs closely.

Why study Psychology?

Psychology is the scientific study of the human mind and behaviour. It has roots in both the natural and social sciences, making it a fascinating subject that is directly relevant to our everyday Psychologylife.develops

a huge range of skills and competencies, balancing essay writing with statistical and data analysis.

Students are given opportunities to design and conduct their own experiments, applying various methodological techniques, experimental designs and data analysis, whilst maintaining ethical principles, on a chosen topic. This helps to develop their understanding of biological, cognitive and social influences on human behaviour.

What can I expect?

Psychology is a two year course. In the Lower Sixth year students explore the foundations of Psychology, looking at social psychology, cognitive psychology, biological psychology and some learning theories. In the Upper Sixth year students will apply this knowledge to different fields within Psychology, including schizophrenia, human relationships and Forensic Psychology for the A Level students and Abnormal Psychology and Personal Relationships for the IB students.

The A Level course has 3 linear examinations and no coursework. The exams consist of short and extended answer questions as well as stimulus response questions.

The IB course is assessed through 3 external assessments at Higher Level (2 at Standard Level) and coursework. The exams consist of short-answer questions and extended response questions.

The A Level course has a greater emphasis on maths and statistics than the IB course.

Where could it lead?

Psychology is a broad discipline that can lead to a number of different careers. It is the 3rd most studied subject at university behind Law and ItBusiness.isoffered

as a 3 or 4 year BSc and/or BA at Oxford, Cambridge and all Russell Group universities. Students are advised to select a BPS accredited degree as this will allow them to specialise further and become a practicing psychologist should they wish to follow this career path. Practicing psychologists include: clinical,sports, educational and forensic Otherpsychologists.careers

closely linked to psychology include: sales & marketing, human resources, law and teaching.

Possible subject combinations

A Level Psychology is classified as a Science subject, and is complemented by Biology and Chemistry. Maths would help with the statistical analysis that is involved in Psychology. History, Politics, Economics, PE and English are also interesting combinations with Psychology.

Entry requirements

Students will need a minimum of a grade 7 in IGCSE Mathematics. For students who have taken GCSE Dual Award Science, two grade 7s are required overall including a grade 7 in Biology. For Triple Award students, a grade 7 is required in Biology.

THEOLOGY AND

PHILOSOPHYTheemphasisofIB

Why study Theology and Philosophy?

At his trial for heresy, Socrates is said to have uttered that ‘An unexamined life is not worth living’ and as a department we agree that a meaningful life is one of reflection and contemplation. Theology and Philosophy at A Level is a critical reflection on our fundamental beliefs, and all you need to begin is a fascination with ideas.

What can I expect?

The A Level Theology and Philosophy course includes a wide range of topics from within Ethics, Theology and Philosophy, all of which are considered from a critical, academic approach. In the Lower Sixth you will debate subjects including the morality of Euthanasia, Platonic Philosophy, and the changing landscape of belief in the UK. In the Upper Sixth we consider Marx’s influence on religious belief, sexual ethics and whether feminism demands that we rethink society and reject religion. There is no coursework, and the course is ultimately assessed through three exams at the end of the Upper Sixth.

The IB Philosophy programme (please note – the IB course is Philosophy rather than Theology and Philosophy) explores many of the fundamental questions that have been asked since the beginning of time and confronts new problems arising within contemporary society: What is real? What defines a human being? How should government rule? These questions are explored through an examination of philosophical themes and texts.

Philosophy is on doing, rather than just learning philosophical content. It demands intellectual rigour, an open and critical mind, and a willingness to appreciate alternative views. IB Philosophy encourages candidates to be aware of conceptual biases, including their own.

The IB Higher Level Philosophy course is assessed in three exam papers and one piece of coursework (a 2000 word piece on a philosophical issue of the student’s choice).

Where could it lead?

If you end up doing a degree in TP, it is unlikely you will find the job of Philosopher being advertised online – but it is not a subject that limits you; it removes limits. The A Level lays an appropriate foundation for any degree at University, such as Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE). It gives you the ‘tools’ to succeed in a wide variety of vocations; for any job where one needs to be able to think logically and present ideas clearly from business to journalism, from law to public services, from education to medicine.

Possible subject combinations

Those more inclined to the Arts will enjoy the discursive, seminar-style lessons, though scientists and mathematicians may also choose this course to enhance their critical analysis skills.

Entry requirements

A strong English Language GCSE grade is preferable. GCSE in Theology and Philosophy is not required.

ENGLISH AS AN ADDITIONAL LANGUAGE

International students are assessed for their level of English when they join the school. Based on this information, extra support is offered to ensure they reach their full potential in all subjects. The support available can consist of small EAL- classes, in-class support and 1-to-1 lessons.

IELTS exam

International students who wish to study at a British University are required to sit the Academic IELTS exam which consists of 4 components: a reading, writing and listening section and an oral exam of 15 minutes. The IELTS course provides students with a set of transferrable skills which are designed to help them with their academic studies at university. International students joining Whitgift School in the Lower Sixth, attend 7 classes a fortnight which take place either before or after school. International students already at Whitgift School take a fast-track IELTS course in the first term of the Upper Sixth. The exam is sat externally in an accredited centre and the cost is covered by the student.