Subject Prospectus

Science

Edexcel

Equivalent to 2 A-Levels.

Minimum Grade 4 in GCSE English and Maths.
Minimum Grade 4 in GCSE Science.

This qualification provides the knowledge, understanding and skills that underpin the study of the applied science sector, and gives learners the opportunity to focus on different aspects of applied science. Learners are given the opportunity to explore, through the optional units, a particular area of science if they wish, to support progression to applied science courses in higher education, and to link with relevant occupational areas

BTEC Applied Science  embodies  a fundamentally learner-centred approach to the curriculum, with a flexible, unit-based structure and knowledge applied in project-based assessments. Students focus on practical, interpersonal and thinking skills.  Students will be required to commit to preparatory reading, revision and independent research. 

The Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma in Applied Science is intended as an Applied General qualification for post-16 learners who want to continue their education through applied learning and who aim to progress to higher education courses. The qualification is wide-ranging and equivalent in size to two A Levels. It has been designed as a two-year, full-time programme of study. Learners who wish to take this qualification will have successfully completed a Level 2 programme of learning with GCSEs and potentially some vocational qualifications.

BTEC Nationals are widely recognised by industry and higher education as the signature vocational qualification at Level 3. They provide progression to the workplace either directly or via study at a higher level.  The qualification carries UCAS points and is recognised by higher education providers as meeting admission requirements for many relevant courses. 

Mr R Davis

Mrs J Clark

IT & Business

Pearson

Equivalent to 1 A-Level

At least a Grade 4 or above in Maths and English GCSEs.

The course is designed to engage students with the foundation of business. Concepts covered in personal finance, marketing and the business environment.

Learners will take 4 units, made up of 3 mandatory and 1 optional unit.  All learners will study the following 3 mandatory units:

1. Unit 1: Exploring Business
2. Unit 2: Developing a Marketing Campaign
3. Unit 3: Personal and Business Finance

Unit 1 provides learners with an insight into the business world and as they investigate the different organisations they are challenged within the field of business theory.

Over the two-year programme, learners will build on their understanding of the themes of ‘strategy’ and ‘managing change’.

Assessment consists of both internally and externally assessed components. Units 2 and 3 are externally assessed: Unit 2 is assignments set by the exam board, which will take place as controlled assessments and then marked externally: unit 3 is taken under exam conditions. All other units are internally assessed through a series of coursework tasks, set over a fixed time period.

The qualification is graded Pass, Merit, Distinction or Distinction*

The broad base of this facilitating qualification makes it suitable for a wide range of future opportunities. It gives students a wide range of progression options into further study such as degrees. training and apprenticeships or other relevant employment within the business sector.

Future courses and possible careers would include: Banking, Retail Management and Business Management.

Ms H Bajomo

Mr T Harrison

Humanities

Eduqas

Equivalent to 1 A-Level

At least a Grade 4 or above in Maths and English GCSEs.

Criminology is the study of crime and punishment, the theories behind what makes somebody a criminal and the punishments that work alongside it. Not all crimes are the same and students will examine what kind of crimes take place within our society and crimes we know little about. The course also explores the criminal justice system and how effective it is at controlling and preventing crime. Topics include:

1. Changing Awareness of Crime, 
2. Criminological Theories, 
3. Crime Scene to Courtroom 
4. Crime and Punishment.

Criminology is a Level 3 Diploma and students have four main areas of study: 50% is examined with 2 examinations of Criminological Theories and Crime and Punishment. The remaining 50% is controlled assessment on Changing Awareness of Crime and Crime Scene to Courtroom. Both parts are spread over the two year course.

Criminology can offer students a number of skills in critical thinking and judgement as well as research skills and understanding how to form an argument effectively. 

Criminology can lead to a diverse range of jobs; these can include policing, social work, CSI units, forensics and the legal profession.

Ms R McHaran

Ms R McHaran

Technology

Pearson

Equivalent to 2 A-Levels

At least a Grade 5 in GCSE English, Maths and Science

The course is a 2 year programme that will be delivered through a range of five mandatory and five optional adding up to 720 Guided Learning Hours (GLS). Two of the Units will be externally assessed. Each student will need to complete.

Mandatory Units

• Engineering Principles
• Delivery of Engineering Processes as a Team
• Engineering Product Design and Manufacturing
• Applied Commercial Quality and Principles in Engineering
• A specialist Engineering Project

Optional Units

• Calculus to solve engineering problems
• Further Engineering Mathematics
• Computer Aided Design in Engineering
• Electronic Devices and Circuits
• Maintenance and Mechanical Systems

BTEC Qualifications are mainly assessed internally. This will be achieved through teacher observations of practical tasks, written reports, formal presentations and specific assessment activities. Students will build a portfolio of tasks that will satisfy the assessment criteria for each unit.  The externally assessed units will take the form of a written examination and a personal project completed under controlled conditions

All units will be graded as Pass, Merit or Distinction. In order to achieve each grade, the students must fully meet the skills required for all specified learning outcomes.

All Sixth Form students will have a range of talks from industrial speakers. This will introduce an understanding of the employment requirements and educational pathways of different engineering sectors. Engineering is a STEM subject, which meets that they could be linked to STEM Mentors, and as a vocational qualification we are seeking to increase the number of industrial and educational visits for each programme.

The BTEC Level 3 Diploma will allow students to move onto higher education possibilities in the form Higher National Diplomas or degree courses. Alternatively, students could access work related training through apprenticeship schemes offered by a number of engineering, manufacturing companies. 

Mr M Taylor

Mr M Taylor

IT and Business

OCR

Equivalent to 1 A-Level.

Minimum Grade 4 in GCSE English and Maths.

Learners will study 5 units, made up of 2 mandatory and 3 optional units.  They will follow the IT Infrastructure Technician Pathway and all learners will study the following 2 mandatory units: Fundamentals of IT, and Global Information.

The first two units provide learners with an insight into the IT sector, as they investigate the pace of technological change, IT infrastructure, and the flow of information on a global scale, as well as the important legal and security considerations.

In addition, learners are required to complete 3 further units, one of which must be the designated mandatory unit for their chosen pathway, thereby ensuring that they are specialising in a specific area as part of their study programme. They will be firmly en route to achieving a qualification that is relevant to the job role they wish to pursue as well as equipping them with relevant employability skills.

Units 1 and 2 are assessed by exam and marked by OCR. The teachers will internally assess a choice of three further units and OCR will moderate them.

The units are graded Pass, Merit and Distinction, and the qualification is graded P, M, D, D*

This qualification is designed to give learners a range of specialist knowledge and transferable skills in the context of applied IT, providing them with the opportunity to enter an apprenticeship, move directly into employment, or progress to a related Higher Education (HE) course.

Learners could progress onto a Level 4 apprenticeship such as Network Engineer or Software Developer or into employment in the IT sector in areas such as technical support, digital technologies, application development or data analysis.

Ms H Bajomo

Ms H Bajomo

Visual and Performing Arts

Edexcel

Equivalent to 2 A-Levels.

Minimum Grade 4 in GCSE English and Maths.

The Extended Diploma is a two-year, full-time course that meets entry requirements in its own right for learners who want to progress to higher education courses in performing arts areas before entering employment. Learners can choose either acting or dance as their chosen pathway, it is not possible to study both. In addition to the performing arts sector-specific content, this qualification provides learners with the opportunity to develop all-round performance skills and transferable skills such as self-confidence, self-presentation, personal discipline, time management and organisational skills which are highly regarded by higher education and employers.

8 units of which 6 are mandatory and 3 are external. Mandatory content (83%). External assessment (46%).

1. Unit 1 (Externally assessed): Investigating Practitioners’ Work
2. Unit 2: Developing Skills and Techniques for Live Performance
3. Unit 3 (Externally assessed): Group Performance Workshop
4. Unit 4: Performing Arts in the Community
5. Unit 5 (Externally assessed): Individual Performance Commission
6. Unit 6: Final Live Performance to an Audience
7. Unit 22 Movement in Performance
8. Unit 26: Physical Theatre Techniques

 This course provides wider opportunities for further study  in Higher education, in the form of a degree in Acting or Performing Arts. It also provides entry into employment in the Performing Arts and entertainment industries. 

Many students will progress on to Higher education, and employment within the Performing Arts, Media entertainment industries. Possible careers include: Acting, Directing, Producing, Television presenting.

Mr A Coughlan

Ms A Male

Physical Education

Pearson Edexcel

Equivalent to 2 A-Levels.

Minimum Grade 4 in GCSE English and Maths.

This is intended as an Applied General qualification, equivalent in size to two A Levels. It has been designed as part of a two-year programme, normally in conjunction with one or more qualifications at Level 3. This qualification is aimed at learners looking to progress onto Higher Education.

The mandatory and optional content provides a balance of breadth and depth, while retaining a degree of choice for individual learners to study content relevant to their own interests and progression choices. Also, the content may be applied during delivery in a way that is relevant to local employment needs. Some units to be included are: Fitness Training and Programming for Health, Sport and Well-Being, Anatomy and Physiology, Practical Sports Performance, Professional Development in the Sports Industry, Sports Coaching and Organising Sports Events.

3 externally assessed units

1. Anatomy and physiology 
2. Fitness training and programming for health, sport and well-being.
3. Investigating business in sport and the active leisure industry. 

6 units that are coursework based  (4 assignments per unit)

1. Application of fitness testing.
2. Professional development in the sports industry.
3. Sports leadership.
4. Sports Psychology.
5. Skill acquisition in sport.
6. Sports performance analysis.

Studying BTEC sport will open up opportunities for students in leadership, business, anatomy and physiology, health and the fitness industry. The qualification is higher considered by higher education, apprenticeship providers and employers.

Studying BTEC Sport at Level 3 will set students up with the relevant skills and knowledge to successfully progress in their careers. Whether that’s through a degree at University or an apprenticeship in sport, business or health.

Possible careers include:  Fitness centre management, Sports coaches, PE teaching, Physical Training Instructors and HM forces

Mr R Armorgie and Ms V Quintino

Mr R Armorgie

IBCP Career-related Programme

International Baccalaureate

n/a

Minimum Grade 4 in GCSE English and Maths.

This is a compulsory Core component of the IB Career-related Programme (IBCP). Students who choose to follow the IBCP will study Language Development for one hour per week, with the aim of gaining a degree of linguistic competence and exploring the culture of a language they do not already speak and have not previously studied. 

We strive to ensure students can choose a language that genuinely interests them. Languages currently studied include French, German, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Japanese, Korean, and British Sign Language. 

There is no external assessment for this course.  Students complete a portfolio to evidence their completion of the various assignments, and a reflection log to show their growth and development in relation to the Language Development learning outcomes.

As well as building intercultural understanding, students are expected to demonstrate progress in the fields of:

• Oral communication
• Visual interpretation
• Reading comprehension
• Writing

Students will also develop the competencies to communicate appropriately, accurately and effectively; in an increasing range of social, cultural and academic contexts; and for an increasing variety of purposes.

For students who have not had the opportunity to study their preferred language in Years 7-11, this is an opportunity to do just that. Students investigate not only the language, but the culture, customs and traditions of their chosen country or community, with a view to instilling students with the confidence and competences to travel, study, work and live abroad (something which our current Y13 students are actively pursuing).

Many universities value applications from students who are culturally curious, and often encourage students to pursue elective modules in a foreign language.  This willingness to explore and embrace other languages and cultures is also increasingly valued by employers seeking to build diverse and inclusive workplaces.

Mr W Burrows (IBCP) and Mr J Walker (Languages)

Mr W Burrows

IBCP Career-related Programme

International Baccalaureate

n/a

Minimum Grade 4 in GCSE English and Maths.

This is a compulsory Core component of the IB Career-related Programme (IBCP). Students who choose to follow the IBCP will study Personal and Professional Skills (PPS) for one hour per week, with the aim of building the essential transferable “soft” skills valued by universities and employers.  

The skills fall into 5 key Themes:

1. Personal development
2. Intercultural understanding
3. Effective communication
4. Thinking processes
5. Applied ethics

There is no external assessment for this course.  Students complete a portfolio to evidence their completion of the various assignments, and a reflection log to show their growth and development in relation to the PPS learning outcomes.

By the end of the IBCP programme, students will be able to:

1. identify their own strengths and develop areas for growth
2. demonstrate the ability to apply thinking processes to personal and professional situations
3. recognize and be able to articulate the value of cultural understanding and appreciation for diversity
4. demonstrate the skills and recognize the benefits of communicating effectively and working collaboratively
5. recognize and consider the ethics of choices and actions

The attributes developed during the Personal and Professional Skills course will equip students with the ability to think critically, self-evaluate, communicate and reflect on personal, intercultural and ethical issues. They will develop leadership, problem-solving, presentation and organisation skills and bring these to bear in a variety of real-world situations.

The skills developed as part of the PPS curriculum are highly valued by universities admissions tutors, apprenticeship providers, and employers.

Mr W Burrows

Mr W Burrows

Modern Foreign Languages

International Baccalaureate

Approximately ½ an AS-Level

Minimum Grade 4 in GCSE English and Maths.

This is a compulsory Core component of the IB Career-related Programme (IBCP). Students who choose to follow the IBCP will study for their Reflective Project for one hour per week, with the aim of identifying, investigating and producing a 2500-word evaluation of an ethical dilemma linked to their Career-related Study.

The reflective project aims to give students the opportunity to:

• produce an extended piece of work
• engage in personal inquiry, action and reflection on a specific ethical dilemma
• present a structured and coherent argument
• engage with local and/or global communities 
• develop research and communication skills
• develop the skills of critical and creative thinking

This is the only component of the IBCP Core which is assessed.  The Reflective Project is marked out of 36 against 5 criteria   

1. Focus and method (6)
2. Knowledge and understanding in context (9)
3. Critical thinking (12)
4. Communication (3)
5. Engagement and reflection (6)

The project is completed as a coursework project, marked in school and then moderated by the International Baccalaureate.  It is then graded using grades A to E, with A representing the highest level of achievement. 

Alongside their written project, students submit an RPPF documenting the development of their project and their reflections throughout the process.

The Reflective Project allows students to put their learning from Personal and Professional Skills into practise, whilst also affording them an opportunity to engage with their Career-related study subject on a deeper level by investigating an ethical dilemma linked to this field.

The Reflective Project provides an excellent opportunity for students to develop the inquiry, research, academic writing and referencing skills necessary in order to succeed at University.

Mr W Burrows

Mr W Burrows

Modern Foreign Languages

International Baccalaureate

Equivalent to 1 AS-Level

Minimum Grade 4 in GCSE English and Maths.

Minimum Grade 5 in any foreign language GCSE.

The ab-initio Spanish course is a two-year Standard level programme for students wishing to gain an academic qualification in Spanish but who have no previous experience of studying the language. Students will learn key grammatical structures and vocabulary to enable them to express a range of views in diverse contexts, as well as building international-mindedness and intercultural understanding.

Students will sit three assessments at the end of Year 13:

• A one-hour writing paper (worth 25%)
• A two-hour listening and reading paper (worth 50%)
• An internally-assessed speaking exam (worth 25%)

Jobs in finance, commerce, hospitality, journalism, tourism and the political and voluntary sectors are all increasingly recruiting candidates who speak another language. Furthermore, certain degree courses (such as law) attach additional value to languages as they demonstrate logic and communication aptitudes.

Students can expect to go on to study a wide range of courses at Russell Group universities and beyond, having studied this course. Languages courses at Post-16 are what universities call ‘facilitating’ subjects: courses which keep doors open to a wide range of degree level courses; helpful iF students are unsure what they would like to study in the future.

Mr J Walker

Mr J Walker

Science

International Baccalaureate

Equivalent to 1 A-Level

Minimum Grade of 5,5 in GCSE Combined Science.
Minimum Grade 4 in GCSE English and GCSE Maths,

Biology is the study of life. Students will develop and demonstrate a deeper appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of how science works and how different areas of biology relate to each other.

Topics covered include:

• The Core – This compromises a number of topics, including cell biology; Molecular biology; ecology; evolution and biodiversity; and human physiology. This body of knowledge together with scientific methods and techniques allows you to analyse, evaluate and generate scientific information.
• Additional Higher Qualification – The material extends on the ideas encountered in the core topics and includes nucleic acids, metabolism, cell respiration, plant biology, genetics and evolution and animal physiology.

Internal assessment 

Individual investigation: personal research, investigation and write up (worth 20% of the overall grade)

External assessment

The external assessment is comprised of 3 examinations

• Paper 1: 40 multiple choice questions (1hr and worth 20%)
• Paper 2: Data-based, short answer and extended response questions centred around the core topics (2.25 hrs, and worth 36%)
• Paper 3: Data-based, short answer and extended response questions centred around the additional topics (1.25 hrs, and worth 24%)

Studying the IB in Biology could lead you into a wide variety of career paths that have Biology as a foundation. From Pharmacy to Medicine, from Forensics to Scientific journalism we believe that the IB qualification can prepare you well for a career in the ever changing field of science. The transferable skills you’ll develop on the course will also enable you to comfortably transition into other sectors.

The IB is widely accepted by universities and employers both abroad and in the UK.   Future courses and possible careers include:

• Physiotherapy
• Veterinary
• Nursing
• Pharmacy
• Environmental Sciences
• Teaching 
• Medicine

Mr D Thompson

Mrs K Jess

English

International Baccalaureate

Equivalent to 1 A-Level

Minimum Grade 4 in GCSE Maths.
Minimum Grade 5 in either English Language or English Literature.

The course is organised into four parts, each focused on the study of either literary or non-literary text. Students explore language through its cultural development and use, its media forms and functions, and its literature. Students develop skills of literary and textual analysis and also the ability to present their ideas effectively. A key aim is the development of critical literacy.

Units of work include the study of nonfiction and multimodal texts which explore contemporary and post-colonial issues of race and identity, canon text exploration and modern prose. Setting this course apart from its equivalents is the fantastic opportunity to study texts in translation, widening students’ knowledge and understanding of global contexts and transferable themes and ideas.

Examination 1:

HL Paper 1: Guided textual analysis (2 hrs 15 mins) – 35%  

The paper consists of two non-literary passages, from two different text-types, each accompanied by a question. Students write an analysis of each of the passages. 

Examination 2: HL Paper 2: Comparative essay (1hr 45 mins) – 25%

The paper is based on literary works studied and students must answer one question with reference to two of the literary works they have studied.         

HL Coursework essay: 20%

Students submit an essay on one non-literary text or a collection of non-literary texts by one same author, or a literary text or work studied during the course. The essay must be 1,200-1,500 words in length.  

Non-examined element: (15 minutes) – 20%

One oral activity presenting their analysis of works read. The Individual Oral must be recorded and requires students to present their analysis of a body of work for 10 minutes, followed by a 5-minute teacher-led question and answer discussion.

English Language and Literature is a facilitating subject which is valued for entry into many Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences, Business and Law courses by Universities.

English Language and Literature can also be the basis for a career in a wide range of areas including: Law, Business Communications, Public Relations, Teaching, Librarian Studies, Journalism, Publishing and Marketing.

Ms H Panton

Ms E Barnard

Modern Foreign Languages

International Baccalaureate

Equivalent to 1 A-Level

Minimum Grade 4 in GCSE English and GCSE Maths.
Minimum Grade 6 in GCSE French.

The IB French course allows students to expand their knowledge and skills beyond GCSE level to explore French and francophone life and culture.  Students will explore four key themes:

1. Identities
2. Human ingenuity
3. Social organisation
4. Sharing the planet

Studied wholly in French, the course facilitates a broader understanding of French social issues, whilst also developing student’s linguistic competences and intercultural understanding.  In addition to the content and topics studied, students will also explore a literary text linked to these which will form a key component of their Internal Assessment.

Students will sit three assessments at the end of Year 13:

• A one-hour writing paper (worth 25%)
• A two-hour listening and reading paper (worth 50%)
• An internally-assessed speaking exam (worth 25%)

As well as being an essential foundation for students wishing to pursue languages at university, the course also forms a bedrock for students hoping to study, work or live in francophone countries in the future.  Jobs in finance, commerce, hospitality, journalism, tourism and the political and voluntary sectors are all increasingly recruiting candidates who speak another language. Furthermore, certain degree courses (such as law) attach additional value to languages as they demonstrate logic and communication aptitudes.

Students can expect to go on to study a wide range of courses at Russell Group universities and beyond. Languages courses at Post-16 are what universities call ‘facilitating’ subjects: courses which keep doors open to a wide range of degree level courses; helpful if students are unsure what they would like to study in the future.

Mr J Walker

Ms M Camara

Humanities

International Baccalaureate

Equivalent to 1 A-Level.

Minimum Grade 4 in GCSE English and GCSE Maths.
Minimum Grade 5 in GCSE Geography.

This course embodies global and international awareness in several distinct ways. It examines key global issues, such as poverty, sustainability and climate change. It considers examples and detailed case studies at a variety of scales, from local to regional, national and international.

The assessment is 75% external examination through two exam papers at the end of the second year. There is also an internal assessment worth 25% of their final grade based on a written report of their own piece of historical research. 

Students will be examined with three papers and one geographic investigation. This will involve fieldwork on a local scale and involve the collection of primary information. The chosen topic may be physical or human, or may integrate the two approaches. The internal assessment is completed as one 2500 word report.

Geography takes advantage of its position to examine relevant concepts and ideas from a wide variety of disciplines. This helps to develop an appreciation of, and respect for, alternative approaches, viewpoints and ideas.

Popular university courses for students with IB Diploma level Geography include Geography, Environmental Science, and Development Studies.

The following careers are ones where Geography is useful: Planning; Local Authority and Civil Service; Finance; Personnel; Tourism; Market Research; Environmental Management; Retail management.

Ms R McHaran

Mr G Dolan

Humanities

International Baccalaureate

Equivalent to 1 A-Level.

Minimum Grade 4 in GCSE English and GCSE Maths.
A Grade 4 in GCSE History or GCSE Sociology is desirable but not essential.

Global Politics offers students the opportunity to understand the complexity of politics within the world through exploring current affairs. In an ever changing world, students get to see where they fit within it, providing an exciting and fresh new perspective on their role in the world. Students have an opportunity to study everything from local to national and international issues, including those which may be affecting them directly.  

In the first year students study four topics: Power, sovereignty and international relations; Human rights; Development; and Peace and Conflict.  In the second year students conduct their own engagement activity with a political issue of their choice. They also explore case studies of their choosing on the topics of the environment and identity.

IB Global Politics has a variety of examinations, presentations and an engagement activity. Examination is through two exam papers at the end of year 2 and forms 60% of the final grade. Internal assessment forms the other 40% and comprises an engagement activity and two video recorded oral presentations (10-minute maximum each) of case studies selected by the students.

Global politics provides students with the skills to understand themes from a variety of different views. It encourages critical thinking, debate and understanding of different political angles on the same case study. It allows students to challenge their personal views and open their minds to the world around them both locally and internationally. 

Global Politics can lead to a number of career opportunities including government, civil service roles, public relations, research jobs and journalism.

Ms R McHaran

Ms R McHaran

Humanities

International Baccalaureate

Equivalent to 1 A-Level.

Minimum Grade 4 in GCSE English and GCSE Maths.
Minimum Grade 5 in GCSE History.

Students will study Rights and Protest for their Paper 1. This will explore the Civil Rights movement in the United States and Apartheid in South Africa. In Paper 2, we will focus on the causes, practices and effects of war in the 20th century. Case studies will involve the world wars, independence wars to civil wars. The second element of this paper will address the conditions that facilitated the rise of authoritarian states in the 20th century, as well as the methods used by parties and leaders to take and maintain control. The final element of this course will be an independent investigation of the student’s choice.

The assessment is 75% external examination through two exam papers at the end of the second year. There is also an internal assessment worth 25% of their final grade based on a written report of their own piece of historical research. 

History helps us understand those forces and influences that have shaped the way we think, act and organise ourselves as people and societies.  A study of history reminds us of those human qualities and conditions that continue through time, from genius to greed or from apathy to ambition.  Through our discussions, the sources and historical interpretations that we will use throughout our courses, you will be able to critically evaluate major events in the world’s recent past and assess their significance.  History helps you develop a critical consciousness.

People who study history are fearless explorers of the past. They investigate past politics, societies, cultures, languages, health, art, education, money, conflicts and more, look at how things have developed over time and connect the dots to understand how we got where we are today.
It might be about the past, but there are plenty of careers in history that you can pursue today. Skills developed in history, such as analysis, research, communication and problem solving are important building blocks for a successful career in fields such as: law, politics, public sector, business, marketing, journalism, economics, teaching, research, archaeology and curation.

Ms R McHaran

Ms J Miah

Mathematics

International Baccalaureate

Equivalent to 1 A-Level.

Minimum Grade 4 in GCSE English.
Minimum Grade 7 in GCSE Maths.

The course emphasises the applied nature of the subject and is designed for students who wish to understand how mathematics relates to the real world and to other subjects.  Students who take this course will be interested in developing their skills in solving practical problems, harnessing technology and exploring mathematical models.

The course covers the five key areas of mathematics: Number and Algebra, Functions, Geometry and Trigonometry, Statistics and Probability, and Calculus.

The core topics are assessed through three written papers taken at the end of the course. These contribute 80% of the final mark. The shorter paper will be focussed on problem-solving questions.  

Students will take three written exam papers consisting of short and longer answers: one without the use of technology and one using a graphic calculator.  Paper 3 will be a one-hour problem-solving paper.  The Internal assessment, which contributes the remaining 20% of the final mark, is through a written mathematical exploration.

The course aims to enable students to understand and be able to recall mathematical facts, concepts and techniques; recall, select and use their knowledge of mathematical skills to both abstract and real world contexts to solve problems; communicate and interpret their mathematics accurately; use technology accurately and efficiently to explore new ideas and solve problems; construct mathematical arguments using precise language; and investigate unfamiliar situations, making conjectures, drawing conclusions and testing their validity.

The course focuses on applying and interpreting statistics and would therefore be an appropriate course for students who are considering, for example, Engineering, Social Sciences and Biomedicine.

Mr J Beswick

Mr B Rajendran

Humanities

International Baccalaureate

Equivalent to 1 A-Level.

Minimum Grade 4 in GCSE English and GCSE Maths.

Psychology is the study of human behaviour. It aims to understand how our minds process information such as memories and moods. Psychology uses principles from many other disciplines such as sociology, biology, maths and philosophy to determine what causes an individual or society
to act in a certain way.

In year 1, students study a foundation in psychology through four topics; biological, cognitive, and sociocultural psychology as well as research methods in psychology. At the end of the first year students conduct their own piece of research for their internal assessment. In the second year of the course students consolidate and apply their learning from the first year to an in-depth study of human relationship psychology.

The assessment is 75% external examination through two exam papers at the end of the second year. There is also an internal assessment worth 25% of their final grade based on a written report of their own piece of psychological research.

Recognised and well respected by universities and employers, psychology can lead to further study in many subject areas, including psychology, sociology, biology, criminology, counselling, marketing and accounting.

Psychology can lead to a diverse range of jobs, including public service jobs, education, counselling, social work and stress management 

Even if university isn’t the route you wish to take, Psychology gives you a great stepping stone into the world of work as it enriches you with invaluable interpersonal skills. These include conflict management, listening, empathy and communication which are highly sought after in any profession.

Ms R McHaran

Ms R Ade-Davis

Modern Foreign Languages

International Baccalaureate

Equivalent to 1 A-Level.

Minimum Grade 4 in GCSE English and GCSE Maths.
Minimum Grade 6 in GCSE Spanish.

The IB Spanish course allows students to expand their knowledge and skills beyond GCSE level to explore Spanish and Latin American life and culture.  Students will explore four key themes:

1. Identities
2. Human ingenuity
3. Social organisation
4. Sharing the planet

Studied wholly in Spanish, the course facilitates a broader understanding of Spanish social issues, whilst also developing student’s linguistic competences and intercultural understanding.  In addition to the content and topics studied, students will also explore a literary text linked to these which will form a key component of their Internal Assessment.

Students will sit three assessments at the end of Year 13:

• A one-hour writing paper (worth 25%)
• A two-hour listening and reading paper (worth 50%)
• An internally-assessed speaking exam (worth 25%)

As well as being an essential foundation for students wishing to pursue languages at university, the course also forms a bedrock for students hoping to study, work or live in Spanish-speaking countries in the future. Jobs in finance, commerce, hospitality, journalism, tourism and the political and voluntary sectors are all increasingly recruiting candidates who speak another language. Furthermore, certain degree courses (such as Law) attach additional value to languages as they demonstrate logic and communication aptitudes.

Students can expect to go on to study a wide range of courses at Russell
Group universities and beyond. Languages courses at Post-16 are what universities call ‘facilitating’ subjects: courses which keep doors open to a wide range of degree level courses; helpful if students are unsure what they would like to study in the future.

Mr. J Walker

Mr J Walker / Mr E Godina

Visual & Performing Arts

International Baccalaureate

Equivalent to 1 A-Level.

Minimum Grade 4 in GCSE English and GCSE Maths.
Minimum Grade 6 in Art & Design GCSE.

The Visual Arts syllabus is divided into 3 core areas:

• Visual Arts in context, (understanding how and why artists make their work)
• Visual Arts methods ( ways of making artworks)
• Communicating Visual Arts ( ways of presenting artworks)

The course addresses this through 3 parts:

• an extended written comparative study of artists work
• a theme based process portfolio
• a self curated exhibition of artworks

Assessment 1 (20%): Creating a digital comparative study of at least 3 artworks by different artists, explaining how they have influenced students own artwork

Assessment 2 (40%): Creating an art portfolio to evidence the exploration, experimentation, manipulation and refinement of art made in response to themes

Assessment 3 (40%): Creating an exhibition of resolved artworks with rationale and artists statement

The study of Visual Arts can provide opportunities in professional art practice and further study in  Art & Design. This course could lead to a career in Fine art, graphic design, Illustration, printmaking, sculpture, interior design, photography and architecture.

Visual  Arts  can also be the basis for a career in a wide range of areas including: Fine art, Commercial art,  Advertising, Art historian, Illustrator, Graphic designer, Art teacher or lecturer, Art therapy,  Product  or furniture design, Automotive designer,  Interior designer,  Architect,  Games designer.

Mr. A. Coughlan

Mr. A. Coughlan

• The value of digital technology and gain an understanding of customer and commercial needs, alongside the ethical and moral issues raised by the increasing reliance on technology and its impact on culture, autonomous operations, and addiction. 
• Use of physical, virtual, and digital cloud environments, emerging technology trends, and the application of tools and testing to influence innovation, algorithms, and usability are key parts of the course.

• Paper A written examination
• Paper B written examination

• The employer-set project provides the opportunity to develop and apply a minimum range of core skills important for employability.

• Skilled employment within the IT sector 
• Higher Level apprenticeships at Level 4 and above which may progress you into careers such as a Network Technician.
• Higher education as UCAS points have been awarded to T Levels, they facilitate progression to Higher Education.