Bishop Vaughan Catholic School Sixth Form Prospectus 10/11
Sixth Form Prospectus 10/11
Sixth Form Prospectus 10/11
01
Contents Foreword
2
The Purpose of the Sixth Form
3
Characteristics of Sixth Form Learning
4
Responsibilities in the Sixth Form
5
“Will I be able to cope in the Sixth Form?”
6
Courses
7
Option Choices
18
Option Blocks
19
Notes
20
Making Choices
22
Working in Partnership
23
My Notes
24
Bishop Vaughan Catholic School Mynydd Garnllwyd Road, Morriston, Swansea SA6 7QG T: 01792 772006
E: bishop.vaughan.school@swansea-edunet.gov.uk
Foreword Dear Parents and Students,
Students who come from other schools
Thank you for your interest in Bishop
experience a warm welcome and
Vaughan Sixth Form. We hope that you
quickly find themselves fitting in well.
will be excited by what is available. Yet
Our Sixth Form students are expected
again we have developed our curriculum
to work hard and take full advantage of
to add new courses to our already wide
the expertise and commitment of our
range of vocational and academic sub-
staff.
jects. With a Sixth Form of around 250
make the most of a wide range of extra
we are able to provide students with av-
curricular opportunities and activities
erage class sizes of 15 students, which
and we are proud of what we have to
allows for greater individual guidance
offer.
and direction.
All students are encouraged to
At Bishop Vaughan
School, we aim for the highest standards
The pastoral support provided for all
possible and we are convinced that this
students is excellent and encourages
can be achieved only in an environment
them to achieve their full potential. This
where students feel secure and happy.
combines with an Enrichment Pro-
Most of our Sixth Form students are not
gramme and a wide range of social
new to our school, having chosen to con-
events, many organised by an energetic
tinue their studies in an environment in
Sixth Form Committee.
which they are well known and valued.
Sixth Form Prospectus 10/11 02
Please feel free to contact our school to find out more or to arrange a visit. You may also wish to speak to some of the Sixth Form students themselves who will no doubt be able to provide you with a good deal of useful and positive information. Mr J Blackburn, Headteacher
Bishop Vaughan Catholic School Mynydd Garnllwyd Road, Morriston, Swansea SA6 7QG T: 01792 772006
E: bishop.vaughan.school@swansea-edunet.gov.uk
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The Purpose of the Sixth Form at Bishop Vaughan School “The glory of God is humanity fully alive” – St. Irenaeus At Bishop Vaughan School we are committed to the provision of an inclusive, Christian education for all our pupils in accordance with the principles and teachings of the Catholic faith. The learning experiences of students are intended to embrace the various aspects of a broad education: academic, emotional, aesthetic, physical, social, moral and spiritual. In the Sixth Form we are dedicated to helping learners develop personally and socially as young adults; to deepen knowledge of themselves and their relationships with others and to allowing them to recognise and appreciate meaning in their own lives and in the community around them.
In essence we set ourselves the task of helping our young people to get the most out of their lives and to be the best that they can be At our Sixth Form we do our utmost to channel students’ best skills and develop weaker ones in order to help them gain the best qualifications for the next stage in their careers, whether in Higher Education or the working environment. Much of this is achieved through structured programmes of Careers and Curriculum Enrichment as well as through a wide range of sporting and extra-curricular activities on offer.
Characteristics of Sixth Form Learning In many respects studying in the Sixth Form is rather different from studying lower down the school. There are several privileges and benefits: At Sixth Form level the teacher is much more of a ‘guide’ rather than a provider of all the information. Pupils learn to become students and the teacher does not always provide all the answers. Instead the teacher often points students in the right direction and explains where or how the information can be found. This is a big step and it takes time to get used to, but it is worthwhile and there is always plenty of help. Classes are usually much smaller and the atmosphere is friendly and relaxed. Students are expected to join in discussions about problem-solving and their own opinions and ideas take on a much greater importance. Students are expected to behave in a more mature and reasonable way and in turn are treated more like adults. Students are allocated independent study time. This is used by many students to get much of their work done and to even get ahead with reading and other research. It’s not all work though – every student has an average of at least one free period per day which can be spent relaxing in the Sixth Form Common Room, working out in the Gym or sometimes helping out in their favourite subject areas. Sixth Form students are also free to leave the premises when they do not have timetabled lessons or study periods. Students have open access to the Sixth Form Study Centre and Library where they may work in peace and quiet or where they may make use of the computers. This year we are making further investment to expand the Sixth Form Study Centre so that students have improved facilities, including significantly more room and upgraded computers.
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All of our students are encouraged to widen their interests by taking minority subjects (like modern language conversation, ICT skills etc.), by becoming involved in the community service programme (in local special schools, hospitals, old peoples’ homes etc.), or in assisting the Special Education department or in lower school games, drama etc. There are opportunities for work experience in a wide variety of jobs and encouragement to join in public speaking, debates and participate in other programmes. There is a wide selection of curricular enrichment activities such as first aid, sports leadership and work related activities. There are also unique opportunities to join in with overseas trips and projects not open to students lower down the school. Bishop Vaughan Catholic School Mynydd Garnllwyd Road, Morriston, Swansea SA6 7QG T: 01792 772006
E: bishop.vaughan.school@swansea-edunet.gov.uk
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Responsibilities in the Sixth Form As well as privileges and benefits there are, as you might expect, certain responsibilities. These come as a natural and practical part of being a young adult learner. Sixth Form students are expected to set a good example to the rest of the school. They are also expected to respond to requests for assistance from teachers, senior management or any member of the support staff. Sixth Form students represent the school. They are expected to show visitors around, attend some evening functions and act as guides to new pupils. Students appointed to the Sixth Form Committee must attend meetings regularly and frequently. The Sixth Form Committee is appointed by a panel of governors and staff. The Committee consist of: Head Boy and Head Girl; Deputy Head Boy (Social) and Deputy Head Girl (Social); Deputy Head Boy (Finance) and Deputy Head Girl (Finance).
Sixth Form students have the responsibility to see that discipline and order are kept by younger pupils and must report any inappropriate behaviour
“Will I be able to cope in the Sixth Form?” Basically, ‘YES’ but it does depend on two main things – the right course and the right approach. Choosing your subjects is an important task and you need to make sure that you choose the right courses for you. At Bishop Vaughan Sixth Form, we allow students to ‘try out’ courses for the first couple of weeks just in case anyone is unsure. By the end of September, students are really well settled and getting on industriously with their chosen subjects. The right approach means being prepared to work. Joining the Sixth Form is most definitely an exciting time but it is not a holiday or youth club. Obviously reaching the standards required in the Sixth Form takes time and no one expects overnight success. The teachers and tutors are always ready to give help, advice and constructive support as well as a sympathetic ear.
Students are assigned to a personal tutor who is available for discussions.
In addition students have regular and frequent interviews with their tutor, Senior Tutor and the Senior Leadership Team.
Three times per year formal monitoring takes place and the findings are sent out to parents and discussed with individual students. This monitoring is designed to make sure that anyone who is falling behind can be identified and helped to get back on track.
Ultimately, we believe that all of our students can achieve success. Providing the effort is made, all students can enjoy and progress in their learning. We have an
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‘Open Entry Sixth Form’ which means that any Year 11 pupil may apply to enter, regardless of academic ability.
Whatever your previous learning successes, we will do all we can to help you move on
Bishop Vaughan Catholic School Mynydd Garnllwyd Road, Morriston, Swansea SA6 7QG T: 01792 772006
E: bishop.vaughan.school@swansea-edunet.gov.uk
Courses Sixth Form Prospectus 10/11
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Level 3 Courses Applied Science BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma - Forensics Examination board: EDEXCEL Mr J Davies COURSE DESCRIPTION This two year course is equivalent to one A level, but has no examination—all assessment is coursework based. Students will gain a good understanding of the science used in solving all forms of crime. Students will study units on the fundamentals of science; science practical techniques; forensic photography; forensic evidence collection for analysis; using science in the workplace; Criminology.
Art & Design Examination board: AQA Mrs H Gwilliam COURSE DESCRIPTION This course encompasses Fine Art, Textile Design, Graphic Communication, Three-Dimensional Design and Photography. Candidates will be engaging in critical, practical and theoretical study in art and design. The course builds upon both traditional and contemporary methods of working, whereby students are encouraged to develop a personal approach, thinking creatively and imaginatively, with innovative ideas using a variety of media and processes. Assessment is divided between a portfolio of work and examinations.
Biology Examination board: OCR
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Mrs J Davies COURSE DESCRIPTION This course offers students the opportunity to study many aspects of Biology including Anatomy, Physiology, Genetics, Evolution, Biochemistry, Taxonomy, Ecology and Biotechnology. There are two modules in both AS and A2. All modules are externally assessed through written examinations in January and June. Practical work is a major component of AS/A2 Biology and gives students useful reinforcement of the theoretical parts of the subject. Students complete internally assessed practical assignments throughout the course. Practical assessments account for 20% of the final mark.
Bishop Vaughan Catholic School Mynydd Garnllwyd Road, Morriston, Swansea SA6 7QG T: 01792 772006
E: bishop.vaughan.school@swansea-edunet.gov.uk
Chemistry Examination board: OCR Miss V Williams COURSE DESCRIPTION Pupils will develop essential knowledge and understanding of different areas of Chemistry, how they relate to each other and how they contribute to the success of the economy and society. At AS level pupils study Atoms and Reactions, Structure and Bonding, and Energy and Resources. The A2 course looks into Polymers and Synthesis, Equilibrium, Rates and pH, and Analysis techniques. Practical work is an essential element of both courses. Pupils are assessed in 3 areas; qualitative, quantitative and evaluative.
Classical Civilisation Examination board: AQA Mrs E Pole COURSE DESCRIPTION Students will study the history and culture of ancient Greece and ancient Rome. The study of Classical Civilisation can lead to a broad range of degree courses and careers, such as law, medicine and accountancy. The influences of these two great civilisations can still be felt today in so many aspects of our lives. Their appeal is as great as ever, as the popularity of films such as ‘Gladiator,’ ‘Troy’ and ‘300’ shows. The course provides an opportunity to learn more about the Greeks and Romans through their literature and other primary sources (all in English translation). Students will be drawn into the fascinating and compelling worlds of these ancient civilisations.
Computing Examination board: WJEC Dr D Sharp COURSE DESCRIPTION The course requires the completion of the following modules: G1 (AS) This unit is about acquiring knowledge and understanding of software, system development, data and applications G2 (AS) Candidates analyse, design, implement, test and evaluate a solution to a given problem requiring the production of original code (programming) G3 (A2) This unit is about acquiring additional knowledge and understanding of software and requires understanding of knowledge from G1 G4 (A2) Candidates analyse, design, implement, test and evaluate a solution to a substantial problem of their choice requiring the production of original code (programming)
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Childrens’ Care, Learning and Development – BTEC L3 Subsidiary Examination board: EDEXCEL Mr J Davies COURSE DESCRIPTION This is a practical work-related course which is equivalent to one A level. The course is made up of six units which are split into coursework tasks. There are no examinations in this course. This qualification may lead directly to employment or to courses in higher education. Career opportunities include nursing, primary teaching, social work, occupational and speech therapy and many other health care options.
Childrens’ Care, Learning and Development – BTEC L3 Diploma Examination board: EDEXCEL Mr J Davies COURSE DESCRIPTION This course has to be taken with the subsidiary option and together they are the equivalent of two A levels. The course also involves one day per week in a work placement to gain experience of working with children which on completion qualifies for an additional 120 UCAS points. Thus the course is equivalent to three A levels and is a full time programme of study. It can be taken alongside Welsh Baccalaureate which is equivalent to another A level also.
English Language Examination board: WJEC
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Miss M Foulkes COURSE DESCRIPTION This is an exciting and interesting course that concentrates on many aspects of our language, including both spoken and written language. You will be given the opportunity to: • Develop your own expertise as a writer • Investigate a variety of sources and develop your ability to see how language works • Explore and evaluate language through your own research
Throughout the whole course you will receive plenty of support and guidance as well as the freedom to explore any aspects of language that interest you.
Bishop Vaughan Catholic School Mynydd Garnllwyd Road, Morriston, Swansea SA6 7QG T: 01792 772006
E: bishop.vaughan.school@swansea-edunet.gov.uk
English Literature Examination board: WJEC Miss M Foulkes COURSE DESCRIPTION This is an engaging course where you will be encouraged to develop your enjoyment of literature and literary studies. You will be expected to approach and respond to a range of texts in a creative fashion. The new WJEC GCE English Literature course has a four unit structure which includes the study of Shakespeare, as well as a wide selection of more modern poetry, prose and drama. For the first time you will be provided with an opportunity to write creatively in a chosen style. You will also be asked to provide an analysis of your own work. You will be provided with the opportunity to discuss the texts and your responses in an open and supportive environment. The English Literature course will be both challenging and rewarding.
French and Spanish Examination board: WJEC Mr L Boucher-Hamon COURSE DESCRIPTION In Year 12, the following areas are studied: Leisure and Lifestyles, including travel and tourism, sport, hobbies, entertainment, customs, traditions, healthy living, unhealthy living. The Individual and Society, including relationships and responsibilities, gender issues, youth culture, education, vocational training and future careers. In Year 13, the following areas are studied: Environmental Issues, including pollution, global warming, transport, energy, nuclear energy, renewable energies, conversation, recycling, sustainability. Social and Political Issues, including the role of the media, racism, immigration, social exclusion and integration, terrorism, the world of work.
Further Mathematics Examination board: AQA Mr J Williams COURSE DESCRIPTION Students who study Mathematics at A level may study Further Mathematics as an additional A level. Further Mathematics comprises of units in Pure Mathematics, Mechanics, Statistics and Decision Mathematics, building on concepts and theories studied in A level Mathematics. Pure Mathematics consists of induction, complex analysis, matrices, de Moivre’s Theorem and continuity. Mechanics consists of vectors, circular motion and differential equations. Statistics consists of statistical inference and hypothesis testing. Decision Mathematics consists of network theory and algorithms.
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Geography Examination board: WJEC Mr J O’Sullivan COURSE DESCRIPTION Geography is a popular and useful choice to make post-16. It provides flexibility with its arts/science components and also builds on skills vital for today’s workplace. The course starts in Year 12 with an induction week that gives information on the course structure, the study skills covered, the career opportunities available and the practical application of the subject. Students then go on to study the following units: GG1 (AS) - Changing Physical Environments GG2 (AS) - Changing Human Environment GG3 (A2) - Themes and Research in Geography GG4 (A2) - Sustainability
History Examination board: EDEXCEL Mrs A Williams COURSE DESCRIPTION At AS two units are studied: Communism and Democracy in the Twentieth Century and Conflict and Change in 20th Century Britain. At A2, pupils will study Stalin’s Russia and produce a piece of coursework based upon an historical enquiry. Students acquire a range of transferable skills such as presentation, research, debating and the ability to put forward a compelling and convincing argument. GCSE History is not essential. Good grades in English demonstrate the necessary skills to follow the course.
Mathematics Examination board: AQA
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Mr J Williams COURSE DESCRIPTION The course comprises units in Pure Mathematics, Mechanics and Statistics. Pure Mathematics consists of algebra, calculus, co-ordinate geometry and trigonometry. Mechanics consists of dynamics (the mechanics of motion) and statics (the study of force systems). Statistics consists of probability theory and distributions. Students will study modules in all three disciplines of Pure Mathematics, Mechanics and Statistics. At AS students will study C1, C2 and S1; at A2 students will study C3, C4 and M1. Mathematics is a component of the entry requirement to many higher education courses and professional careers such as engineering, technology and applied sciences.
Bishop Vaughan Catholic School Mynydd Garnllwyd Road, Morriston, Swansea SA6 7QG T: 01792 772006
E: bishop.vaughan.school@swansea-edunet.gov.uk
PE Examination board: OCR Mrs A Hamer COURSE DESCRIPTION The course aims to develop an understanding of the scientific and socio cultural factors that influence physical education and sport. Students will study a variety of topics in the classroom as well as completing two practical activities. GCSE PE is helpful to the study of AS and A2 PE but it is not essential. The A level PE course is ideal for students wishing to progress to degree level study in Physical Education and Sports Studies.
Performing Arts (Single Award) Examination board: EDEXCEL Miss A James COURSE DESCRIPTION: This is a modular course specifically suited to pupils wishing to gain practical experience within the performing arts sector. Pupils have the opportunity to develop their performance skills in either music or drama, studying subject areas ranging from devising drama to vocal techniques. Written coursework is undertaken although the course does have a strong practical emphasis and students will be expected to perform on a regular basis.
Physics Examination board: OCR Mr H Davies COURSE DESCRIPTION At AS level the course gives pupils the opportunities to study Mechanics, Electrons, Waves and Photons. At A2, Fields, Particles, the Newtonian world and Frontiers in Physics are covered. Practical work is an integral part of the course, with practical assessments contributing to your final grade. The aims of the course are to show the importance of Physics as a human endeavour which interacts with social, economical, philosophical and industrial matters. Candidates will recognise the usefulness of scientific principles in every day life. The course will also prepare candidates for employment and further studies.
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Psychology Examination board: WJEC Mrs R Pinch COURSE DESCRIPTION The AS Psychology course is designed to introduce students to each of the main areas of Psychology. A2 Psychology then builds on this broad base and focuses on several areas in more detail. Assessment is entirely through written examinations at both AS and A2. At AS level, there are two exams, one introducing approaches to psychology, the other examining key studies. At A2, students study research methods for one examination and topics and applications of psychology for the other.
Religious Studies Examination board: WJEC Mrs H Hansen COURSE DESCRIPTION The course aims are to encourage a disciplined study of key areas of Religious Studies; to introduce students to some of the key issues in religion which are of perennial interest and of present-day concern; to widen students’ knowledge and understanding of different approaches to received traditions, beliefs and practices. The main areas of study are: •
The Philosophy of Religion
•
Religion and Ethics
•
Christianity
Sociology Examination board: WJEC Mrs R Pinch
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COURSE DESCRIPTION A level Sociology gives you a wonderful opportunity to learn about your own society and how it works, both from a normal point of view e.g. current patterns and perceptions of crime as well as from a totally different, often alternative perspective e.g. why official crime statistics often distort real crime figures among some social groups. A level Sociology is a highly valued qualification in the labour market, as it develops skills such as critical thinking, logical reasoning, independent research and statistical analysis. It can prepare you well for University courses or careers in the police, nursing, medicine, management, politics, teaching and research. You will also enjoy it and have fun debating many controversial issues.
Bishop Vaughan Catholic School Mynydd Garnllwyd Road, Morriston, Swansea SA6 7QG T: 01792 772006
E: bishop.vaughan.school@swansea-edunet.gov.uk
Uniformed Public Services—BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma Examination board EDEXCEL Mr J Davies COURSE DESCRIPTION This two year course is equivalent to a full A level but has the significant advantage of being all assessed by coursework (no exams). Students will study: •
Adventurous activities
•
Team leadership skills
•
Hard-based outdoor activities
•
Physical fitness and preparation
•
Citizens and society
•
The uniformed public services and government
Students will take part in several expeditions, work experience and a week long retreat. Often students will be assessed on the skills they show alongside the written work.
Welsh (Second Language) Examination board: WJEC Mrs P Smith COURSE DESCRIPTION This course will stimulate your interest and enthusiasm towards Welsh. It encourages you to develop your Welsh oral skills by discussing Welsh film, theatre and media. You will read, analyse and respond to a wide range of written material, including modern and traditional literary texts. You will also be given the opportunity to write creatively and factually: at AS Level this is in the form of a project of personal choice.
Welsh Baccalaureate (Advanced) Mr J Davies COURSE DESCRIPTION The Welsh Baccalaureate is an exciting qualification for students in Wales that adds a valuable new dimension to the subjects and courses already available to students. The Welsh Assembly Government introduced the Welsh Baccalaureate to transform learning for young people in Wales. It gives broader experiences than traditional learning programmes, to suit the diverse needs of young people. Students get a lot of freedom to research topics that interest them and often cover topics using a lively debate format. The advanced WBQ is very prestigious and is given 120 UCAS points (an ‘A’ grade at A level).
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Level 2 Courses Public Services (BTEC First Diploma) Examination board: EDEXCEL Mr J Davies COURSE DESCRIPTION A BTEC First Diploma is a practical, work-related course. Students learn by completing projects and assignments that are based on realistic workplace situations, activities and demands. It introduces students to the employment area chosen and provides a good basis for a more advanced work-related qualification. A BTEC First Diploma is equivalent to four GCSEs grades A*-C and is taken as a full-time course. The course is made up of six units – 3 core units that everyone takes and 3 specialist units. The specialist units involve study in a particular area in more depth. There are no exams, all assessment is via coursework.
Welsh Baccalaureate (Intermediate) Mr J Davies COURSE DESCRIPTION The Welsh Baccalaureate is an exciting qualification for students in Wales that adds a valuable new dimension to the subjects and courses already available to students. The Welsh Assembly Government introduced the Welsh Baccalaureate to transform learning for young people in Wales. It gives broader experiences than traditional learning programmes, to suit the diverse needs of young people. Students get a lot of freedom to research topics that interest them and often cover topics using a lively debate format. The intermediate WBQ is worth the equivalent of three GCSE passes at grade C.
English and Mathematics GCSE Resits
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COURSE DESCRIPTION Students who have not achieved a C grade in GCSE English or Mathematics will have the opportunity to resit. Both GCSEs will be completed during a one year course. Students will receive 3 timetabled lessons a fortnight for each subject. Much of the time will be spent preparing for the exam, revising the necessary skills and techniques. In English, if appropriate, students will also be given the opportunity to complete and submit new coursework folders. There is no coursework element for Mathematics. Exam sessions for English run in November and June. In Mathematics, exam sessions take place in January, March and June.
Bishop Vaughan Catholic School Mynydd Garnllwyd Road, Morriston, Swansea SA6 7QG T: 01792 772006
E: bishop.vaughan.school@swansea-edunet.gov.uk
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Option Choices Level 3 Courses For the most part the subjects on offer at Bishop Vaughan Sixth Form are Level 3 courses, designed to build on the successes that students achieve at GCSE and to prepare them for further study at university or for the world of work. Most subjects on offer are traditional AS and A levels. Some will have coursework elements but all involve formal examinations in Years 12 and 13. There are, however, a number of courses on offer with alternative means of assessment. These include Applied Science: Forensics, Catering, Children’s Care, Learning and Development and Public Services (Level 3). Often known as ‘vocational’ subjects, they are equivalent to full A levels but involve continuous assessment rather than formal examinations. The Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Diploma also involves continuous assessment rather than formal examinations. Those who pass this course gain the equivalent of an A level at grade A (120 UCAS points). You are most welcome to choose a combination of AS levels and Vocational courses but you should note that the vocational courses and the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Qualification are two-year courses. Level 2 Courses There are two Level 2 courses available at Bishop Vaughan Sixth Form: Public Services and the Welsh Baccalaureate Intermediate Diploma. All students not yet ready for Level 3 courses will study Public Services and some will have the additional opportunity to study for the Welsh Baccalaureate Qualification. These are one year courses.
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Our partnership with Morriston Sixth Form also provides the opportunity for students to enrol on a full-time NVQ Hairdressing course. This is a two-year course. For further information and an Option Choices booklet, please contact Mrs Pole, Director of Sixth Form, at the address below.
Bishop Vaughan Catholic School Mynydd Garnllwyd Road, Morriston, Swansea SA6 7QG T: 01792 772006
E: bishop.vaughan.school@swansea-edunet.gov.uk
Biology (B) Chemistry (B) English Literature (B) Hospitality (M) ICT (M) Mathematics (B) Media Studies (M) Psychology (B) Public Services (B)
Advanced WBQ (M)
Biology (B)
Biology (M)
CCLD Subsidiary Diploma (Single) (B)
Further Maths (B)
Law (M)
Product Design (M)
Public Services (B)
Welsh (B)
Psychology (M) Spanish (J)
Sociology (B) Sport (M)
Level 2 Courses
Psychology (B)
History (B)
English Language (B)
Computing (M)
Computing (B)
Chemistry (M)
Chemistry (B)
Business (M)
Applied Science - Forensics (B)
Option 4
Physics (B)
Performing Arts (J)
PE (B)
Maths (M)
History (M)
French (J)
Classical Civilisation (B)
CCLD Diploma (Double) (B)
Art & Design (M)
Option 3
Religious Studies A2 (B)
Religious Studies (B)
Physics (M)
Music (M)
Maths (B)
Geography (M)
Geography (B)
English Literature & Language (M)
Art (B)
Advanced WBQ (B)
Option 5
Sixth Form Prospectus 10/11
1. Public Services plus Intermediate Diploma in the Welsh Baccalaureate Qualification (B) 2. NVQ Hairdressing (M)
(J) after a subject means that delivery will be shared between both schools.
(M) after a subject means that it is being offered in Morriston
(B) after a subject means that it is being offered at Bishop Vaughan
Notes:
Option 2
Option 1
Level 3 Courses
Option Blocks
19
Notes
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•
Level 3 subjects are grouped into five different blocks: Options 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5. You can choose one subject from each option block. To permit different combinations some subjects appear in more than one block.
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Most students study the equivalent of four subjects in Year 12. Only in exceptional circumstances will the school permit the study of less than four, so you should select four subjects from the option blocks, leaving one space blank.
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A few students choose to study five subjects. To do this you must achieve A or A* grades at GCSE. If you are confident of reaching this standard, if you wish, you can select five subjects, one from each block. It is wise to seek the advice of teachers if you are thinking of choosing to study five subjects.
•
To do four Level 3 courses (AS or Vocational) ordinarily you need to achieve at least five GCSEs at grade C or better, including English and Mathematics. If a subject you are choosing is one you have studied for GCSE, you will usually be expected to achieve at least grade B in it.
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If you do not achieve either or both of English and Mathematics at least at grade C you may still be allowed to do AS courses on the condition that you make every effort to achieve in English and/or Mathematics in Year 12. Each individual case will be considered on its merits.
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If you obtain only four GCSEs at grade C or better you may still be permitted to do AS and Level 3 vocational courses. Again each individual case will be judged on its merits.
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For some subjects at AS level it is not necessary to have studied them at GCSE previously. Discuss this with the relevant teachers.
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You cannot choose to study AS Further Mathematics without also studying AS Mathematics. This will count as two choices. Furthermore, you cannot choose to do Mathematics unless you have gained a GCSE in the higher tier.
•
You can choose to do English Language and English Literature. These count as two separate choices.
Bishop Vaughan Catholic School Mynydd Garnllwyd Road, Morriston, Swansea SA6 7QG T: 01792 772006
E: bishop.vaughan.school@swansea-edunet.gov.uk
•
If you are interested in studying Dentistry, Medicine, Pharmacy or Veterinary Science at university, it is essential that you choose Chemistry.
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If you wish to do a Science subject at A level, you can do so providing you are confident of achieving grade B standard in the specific Science subject at GCSE (please contact any member of Science staff for further details).
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If you wish to study AS level in Psychology, you must ordinarily have grade B in GCSE Mathematics.
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If you choose to study Double Children’s Care, Learning and Development, you need to be aware that this is a full-time course involving work placement. You are able to study for the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Diploma alongside but cannot choose any other courses.
•
If you think it is likely that you will not achieve five GCSEs at Grade C or if you are particularly interested in the course, you may choose Public Services (Level 2).
•
Some students who choose Public Services will have the opportunity to enhance their qualifications by studying for the Welsh Baccalaureate Qualification.
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In 2010 the school expects to run with the blocks of subjects presented in this booklet.
•
However, if there is something not included that you would like to study or a combination of subjects that does not seem to be possible, please write the details in the comments box.
•
Please note that some of the subjects on offer will be taught at Morriston Comprehensive School. Transport is provided for any students who move between schools for their studies.
•
Bishop Vaughan Sixth Form also works with Swansea’s other 11-18 schools (Gowerton, Bishop Gore, Olchfa, Bryn-Tawe and Gwyr). This means that there are likely to be some additional subjects on offer which we will know about at a later date.
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Making Choices “How do I begin to choose?” If a decision has already been made on a career (or even narrowed down to an area) then there are often particular A levels which are required by each profession – e.g. Medicine requires Chemistry and Engineering requires Mathematics. Check with the Careers Adviser, if in any doubt. If you have no specific ambitions career-wise but would like to continue with further education, you must choose courses carefully. Here are some questions to think about: • • •
Which subjects give you the best results? Which subjects do you enjoy most? What will give you most choice when you finish?
Everyone is different but a mixture is often the best idea – while you must be prepared to work, it is unlikely that you will work well if you don’t enjoy your subjects. It is said, for example, that Science subjects should always be chosen if possible because there is an acute shortage of well-qualified scientists. There is indeed a shortage, yet over 60% of all advertisements for jobs do not specify either the A level subjects required, nor the degree specialism. So any choice should be made only after careful checking and consultation. If a student enjoys Arts subjects now and is likely to get better results by choosing them, then it would be very foolish indeed to pick only Science A levels. Better results are always earned in a subject that is enjoyed.
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It is, however, important to be are aware that there are serious shortages of highly skilled people in some areas and this may affect your choice of subjects. These areas are Engineering, Computing and Science. There are also high demands for well qualified personnel in the caring professions. Clearly, final job prospects will be improved if subjects are chosen in these areas. Please discuss such issues with Sixth Form staff and with the Careers Adviser. This prospectus is designed to provide you with some useful information about Bishop Vaughan Sixth Form. However, it probably won’t answer all of your questions. So please do speak to the staff and students. They will be more than willing to help you.
Bishop Vaughan Catholic School Mynydd Garnllwyd Road, Morriston, Swansea SA6 7QG T: 01792 772006
E: bishop.vaughan.school@swansea-edunet.gov.uk
Working in Partnership Bishop Vaughan School has an established tradition of working with other schools in Swansea through the Sixth Form Consortium, which has enabled students to access a wide range of courses. At present, we enjoy a flourishing partnership with Morriston Comprehensive School, which has gone from strength to strength. This partnership working has enabled students from Bishop Vaughan to access courses at Morriston and vice versa. This has resulted in students having a much wider choice of subjects available to them and reflects the Welsh Assembly Government’s 14-19 agenda. Close working with Morriston School has also allowed students to enjoy a wider range of extra-curricular experiences, including expeditions to the Himalayas and Equador and the opportunity to play competitive rugby in a joint Bishop VaughanMorriston team. Both schools are confident that there will be increased opportunities available to students in the coming academic year.
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My Notes
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Bishop Vaughan Catholic School Mynydd Garnllwyd Road, Morriston, Swansea SA6 7QG T: 01792 772006
E: bishop.vaughan.school@swansea-edunet.gov.uk