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LEVEL 3 courses
COURSES
LEVEL 2 BTEC COURSES PLEASE NOTE: Entry requirements may change for some courses, please check the website.
FOUNDATION LEARNING TIER
Applied Science Edexcel BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma (3 A Level equivalent) Art and Design AS/A2 Bengali AS/A2 Biology AS/A2 Business Edexcel BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma (3 A Level equivalent) Business Studies AS/A2 Chemistry AS/A2 Creative Media Production Edexcel BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma (3 A Level equivalent) Drama and Theatre Studies AS/A2 Economics AS/A2 English Literature AS/A2 Film Studies AS/A2 French AS/A2 Further Mathematics AS/A2 Geography AS/A2 Government and Politics AS/A2 Health & Social Care Edexcel BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma (3 A Level equivalent) History AS/A2 Information Communication Edexcel BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma Information & Communications Technology (ICT) AS/A2 Mathematics AS/A2 Media Studies AS/A2 Music AS/A2 Music Technology AS/A2 Photography AS/A2 Physics AS/A2 Product Design (3D) AS/A2 Psychology AS/A2 Religious Studies (Philosophy and Ethics) AS/A2 Sociology AS/A2 Spanish AS/A2 Sport Edexcel BTEC Level 3 Diploma (2 A Level equivalent) Textiles AS/A2
01 Facilitating Subjects Facilitating Subjects equip you with the skills required for a large number of competitive courses. They also increase your chances of getting onto those A Levels and Degree courses you are interested in.
Facilitating subjects at GCSE for A Levels Art and Design
Additional or Applied Science
History
Music
Biology
Mathematics
Chemistry
Physics
English Language
Physical Education
French
Photography
Geography
Spanish
Drama
Textiles
Facilitating subjects at A Level for University Biology
History
Chemistry
Maths
Further Maths
English
Physics
Geography
Languages (Classical and Modern)
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level 3 courses Applied Science EDEXCEL BTEC Extended Diploma (3 A level equivalent)
Business Edexcel BTEC Extended Diploma (3 A level equivalent)
WHY STUDY THIS SUBJECT?
WHY STUDY THIS SUBJECT?
The Applied Science specification extends GCSE science and contains elements of biology, chemistry and physics, as well as earth science and environmental science. The course is purpose built for those students who wish to continue with a broad study of science beyond GCSE, but who choose not to specialise in the separate A-level sciences. This diploma is the equivalent of three A2 levels.
This is a vocational course of full time study, equivalent to 3 A Levels. You will study a range of topics over two years including Exploring Business Activity, Introduction to Marketing, Introduction to Accounting, Investigating Recruitment and Selection, Introduction to e-Business and Starting a Small Business.
WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS?
General entry requirements.
General entry requirements and two of the following facilitating subjects at grade C: GCSE Additional Science, GCSE Applied Science, GCSE Core Science, GCSE Biology, GCSE Chemistry, GCSE Physics.
ART and DESIGN AS/A2 WHY STUDY THIS SUBJECT? Art & Design crosses subject boundaries and ignores rules; it challenges preconceptions and encourages personal enquiry. You are challenged to think, question, experiment and innovate. There are opportunities to develop new skills and forms of communication but the subject is primarily about the person making the art, his/her ideas and interests.
WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS? General entry requirements and the following facilitating subject at grade B or above: GCSE Art and Design.
BIOLOGY AS/A2 WHY STUDY THIS SUBJECT? If you are interested in the living world and how organisms live and interact with each other, then you will enjoy this course. If you plan to follow a science or medically related degree course at university, Biology is very desirable and will give you a considerable advantage. If you plan to take Chemistry at A Level, Biology is a complementary subject which will help to reinforce many similar skills.
WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS? General entry requirements and one of the following facilitating subjects at grade B or above: GCSE Biology, GCSE Additional Science.
WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS?
BUSINESS STUDIES AS/A2 WHY STUDY THIS SUBJECT? This qualification will allow you to study business within the context of the real world and is based upon very topical issues. It will allow progression from GCSE in Business Studies and BTEC First in Business. It will also be appropriate if you have not studied Business Studies at GCSE but have a keen interest in the subject. The core of the qualification is based upon 2 units in AS: planning and financing a business and managing a business. You will be introduced to Entrepreneurship, Finance, Marketing, People and the Legal aspects of business. It will equip you either to work in or to manage a business in an international context. It also forms a strong foundation for further study at degree level.
WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS? General entry requirements and the following facilitating subject at grade B or above: GCSE English Language.
CHEMISTRY AS/A2 WHY STUDY THIS SUBJECT? Chemistry is an excellent qualification for people who want to go on to a scientific career and an excellent way to progress on to a wide variety of university courses. Chemistry forms a “bridge� between Physics and Biology and is highly regarded as an entry qualification to virtually all science and engineering degree courses, especially when combined with other sciences or Mathematics. A Level Chemistry is an essential entry requirement to both medicine and veterinary degree courses.
WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS? General entry requirements and one of the following facilitating subjects at grade B or above: GCSE Chemistry, GCSE Additional Science.
Entry Requirements for all Level 3 Courses: At least 5 A*–C GCSE grades including English and Maths (vocational courses count as one GCSE).
Creative Media Production EDEXCEL BTEC Extended Diploma (3 A level equivalent) WHY STUDY THIS SUBJECT? Creative Media Production covers some of the UK’s most dynamic and exciting industries ranging from film, television and radio, to photography, publishing and sound recording. The industry is huge and growing, employing around 1.3 million people in the UK. London is, of course, a central hub for many aspects of the industry. The BTEC will teach you skills, knowledge and language common to all the creative and media industries. Throughout the course you will develop your own ‘multimedia products’ to assist in achieving your creative potential. Working in groups and individually you will use specially designed media spaces including recording studios, film studios, film and sound editing facilities and/or graphics suites to develop project ideas. This course is equivalent to 3 A Levels.
WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS? General entry requirements.
DRAMA and THEATRE STUDIES AS/A2 WHY STUDY THIS SUBJECT? This course demands practical, creative and communication skills in almost equal measure. You will extend your ability to create drama and theatre, either in a performing or production role. You will also be required to write about drama and to develop your analytic skills to become an informed critic. This course is for students who have an interest in the arts and have a creative instinct for communicating their views through drama. You may be keen on acting, writing or on the visual and technical side of theatre and wish to develop their skills in some or all aspects of these areas.
WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS? General entry requirements and one of the following facilitating subjects at grade B or above: GCSE English or GCSE Drama. If you have not taken GCSE Drama but have extensive experience in the subject, this will be accepted as an alternative. The ability to work both independently and collaboratively is essential.
ECONOMICS AS/A2 WHY STUDY THIS SUBJECT? Economics is a challenging subject which tests your analytical skills, the ability to evaluate arguments and decisions and assess the reliability of information. It can also give you new perspectives on some of the most pressing and challenging problems facing the world today. You will learn about the impact of international trade, both good and bad. You will discover the effect government policies have on the economy and on employment. This will help you make more informed decisions as both a consumer and as a voter.
WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS? General entry requirements and the following facilitating subject at grade B or above: GCSE English Language.
ENGLISH LITERATURE AS/A2 WHY STUDY THIS SUBJECT English Literature or Literature and Language A Level will allow you to study a diverse and exciting range of texts across the centuries and across genres. You will have an element of choice in the texts you focus on for your coursework folder, and will study a range of exams texts, from classics such as Shakespeare to more contemporary writers of the present day. You will need to write analytically and creatively, be able to communicate insightfully and passionately, and engage with big philosophical questions. Furthermore, English Literature and English Literature and Language are a rigorous, academic subject which is well regarded by universities and employers.
WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS? General entry requirements and the following facilitating subject at grade B or above: GCSE English Language.
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04 FILM STUDIES AS/A2
GEOGRAPHY AS/A2
WHY STUDY THIS SUBJECT?
WHY STUDY THIS SUBJECT?
We live in an age where the moving image is of arguably more importance than the written word. Film is a powerful medium of communication and as such, an exciting subject to study. Film Studies is a dynamic, academic and creative subject which combines many different disciplines. Throughout the year you will build your skills in analysis, research and creativity and will develop understanding, appreciation and enjoyment of film, the major art form of the twentieth century, and one developing new modes of expression and exhibition in the first decades of the twenty-first century. Because in Film Studies we study film both as an art form and film within its social and historical context, Film Studies is an excellent complement to other creative or humanities-based subjects and can provide an excellent balance for the sciences or business studies. Throughout the course you will have opportunities to analyse films that you have a personal interest in, you will be exposed to film from World cinema which will broaden your horizons of historical, social and political issues around the world. You will plan, film and edit your own narrative sequence and, if you continue on the A2, you will make and screen your own 5 minute short film.
Tourism is the world’s largest employer. Environmental issues now dominate the news and the political agenda. Gaining an understanding of people and places has never been more important. Studying Geography at AS/A2 will broaden your understanding of both the physical and human environment; how they interact and shape the dynamic world we live in today. A residential field trip will allow you to put your skills and knowledge into practice as well as develop your transferable skills (communication, numerical, team building) all of which are highly recognised by Universities and Employers.
WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS? General entry requirements and the following facilitating subjects at grade B or above: GCSE English Language While it is not a requirement that applicants are ‘film buffs’, an appreciation of film would be useful.
FURTHER MATHEMATICS AS/A2 WHY STUDY THIS SUBJECT? You can take Further Mathematics A Level alongside Mathematics A Level if you wish to broaden your knowledge and understanding of the subject. Not only is it hypothesised that taking Further Mathematics improves students’ grades in Mathematics A Level by broadening their depth of knowledge and understanding of the subject it also is excellent preparation for any students intending to do a Mathematics related subject at University. The subject also combines well with sciences such as Physics and Chemistry.
WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS? General entry requirements and the following facilitating subject at grade A/A*: GCSE Mathematics.
WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS? General entry requirements and the following facilitating subject at grade B or above: GCSE Geography.
GOVERNMENT & POLITICS AS/A2 WHY STUDY THIS SUBJECT? ‘Man [and woman] is by nature a political animal.’ Aristotle ‘Madness is rare in individuals – but in groups, political parties, nations, and eras it’s the rule.’ Friedrich Nietzsche ‘Just because I don’t care, doesn’t mean I don’t understand.’ Homer Simpson Knowledge is power. And this popular A Level gives you the knowledge to understand how government works, particularly in the UK, but also in other countries. We don’t always like politicians and the things that governments do... but the business of politics touches every aspect of our lives. And whilst we might criticise governments for some of their policies, it has to be better than having no government at all. Society just wouldn’t function without an elected body to decide, say, what taxes will be levied, how those taxes will be spent on things like health and education or how the country will be defended. No matter whether government makes you feel angry or reassured, it’s worth having knowledge of how the whole process of an elected government works.
WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS? General entry requirements and one the following facilitating subjects at grade B or above: GCSE English Language or GCSE History. You should have a genuine interest in current affairs and the world around you.
Entry Requirements for all Level 3 Courses: At least 5 A*–C GCSE grades including English and Maths (vocational courses count as one GCSE).
HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE EDEXCEL BTEC EXTENDED DIPLOMA (3 A LEVEL EQUIVALENT) WHY STUDY THIS SUBJECT? This is a vocational course consisting of full time study, and is the equivalent to three A Levels. You will study a range of topics over two years including Developing Effective Communication in Health and Social Care, Anatomy and Physiology for Health and Social Care, and Safeguarding Adults and Promoting Independence.
WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS? General entry requirements. One facilitating subject & English Language at grade C or above.
HISTORY AS/A2 WHY STUDY THIS SUBJECT? How did two bullets lead to 20 million deaths? Why was mass murder part of government policy? History is an excellent subject for learning about the reasons why the modern world is as it is. You will build upon skills developed at GCSE, such as the ability to use a variety of sources and own knowledge to make judgements about historical questions. Analytical skills will become increasingly important as the course progresses.
INFORMATION & COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY (ICT) AS/A2 WHY STUDY THIS SUBJECT? The purpose of this course is to develop and understanding of ICT and the knowledge and skills needed for working in an ICT environment and preparation for a university course. Students will use up to date technology and work closely with local and national businesses.
WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS? General entry requirements and the following facilitating subjects at grade B or above: GCSE English Language
LANGUAGES AS/A2 FRENCH, SPANISH OR BENGALI WHY STUDY THIS SUBJECT? Travel – so the saying goes – broadens the mind. And never more so than when you can speak the language. That way you’ll be able to find out what the local people are thinking, how they live... and how their culture really works. This course has been designed to give you a profound understanding of the language. Not only will you know more about the mechanics of the language – like grammar and vocabulary – but also about how people live and use language on a day-to-day basis.
WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS?
WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS?
General entry requirements and the following facilitating subject at grade B or above: GCSE History.
General entry requirements and the following facilitating subjects at grade B or above: GCSE French, GCSE Spanish or GCSE Bengali.
INFORMATION COMMUNICATION EDEXCEL BTEC EXTENDED DIPLOMA (3 A LEVEL EQUIVALENT) WHY STUDY THIS SUBJECT? This new and exciting course will be exploring how technology influences the way we live. You will learn how to deliver projects and create ICT solutions to meet real business problems. You will use up to date technology and work closely with ICT professionals in business. This BTEC Diploma is equivalent to three A Levels, which can be used for university entry.
WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS? General entry requirements.
MATHEMATICS AS/A2 WHY STUDY THIS SUBJECT? Do you enjoy a challenge? Are you logical? Are you interested in how and why things work? Mathematics is one of the great creations of human intelligence. It is the language of science, technology and engineering. It is essential for architecture and design as well as economics and medicine; even art relies on mathematics to some extent. If you enjoy mathematics you should certainly consider studying the subject at a higher level. Mathematics is a challenging subject and not for the faint hearted.
WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS? General entry requirements and the following facilitating subjects at grade B or above: GCSE Mathematics.
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06 MEDIA STUDIES AS/A2
PHOTOGRAPHY AS/A2
WHY STUDY THIS SUBJECT?
WHY STUDY THIS SUBJECT?
This is a very modern and relevant course, which will allow you to engage with contemporary media through a mixture of theoretical and practical work. Through detailed study of media technologies and issues, you will develop excellent analytical and evaluative skills; at the same time, you will gain practical production experience in areas such as publishing or film. Our specialist facilities will give you access to industry standard software (e.g. FinalCut Pro, Flash, Dreamweaver, Photoshop), preparing you for higher education or work in a wide range of media industries.
Photography crosses subject bounders and ignores rules; it challenges preconception and encourages personal enquiry. It is linked closely with fine art yet often overlaps with media and mass communication. You are challenged to think, question, experiment and innovate. There are opportunities to develop new skills and forms of communication but the subject is primarily about the person making the photograph and his/her ideas and interests.
WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS?
General entry requirements and one of the following facilitating subjects at grade B or above: GCSE Art and Design or GCSE Photography.
General entry requirements and the following facilitating subject at grade B or above: GCSE English Language.
MUSIC AS/A2 WHY STUDY THIS SUBJECT?
WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS?
PHYSICS AS/A2 WHY STUDY THIS SUBJECT?
The new A level GCE Music course – simple in design but comprehensive – is intended to be stimulating and enriching for students and teachers alike. At both Advanced Subsidiary Levels (AS) and A2, students experience all three main musical disciplines of performing, composing and listening and understanding.
Physics is the science dealing with the fundamental constituents of the universe. Physics is a versatile subject; in combination with Maths and other sciences you will be able to take up a very wide range of higher education courses. Those intending to study medicine frequently take Physics and the subject also combines well with Maths, Chemistry & Biology.
WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS?
WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS?
General entry requirements and the following facilitating subject at grade B or above: GCSE Music or be proficient on an instrument to grade 5 level or similar.
General entry requirements and one of the following facilitating subjects at grade B or above: GCSE Physics or GCSE Additional Science.
MUSIC TECHNOLOGY AS/A2
Product Design (3D) AS/A2
WHY STUDY THIS SUBJECT?
WHY STUDY THIS SUBJECT?
Music Technology plays a key role in music across the world. Whether or not you play a traditional instrument, you will be encouraged to explore your musicality and create original materials using technology. Music Technology, like other forms of technology, advances rapidly. You will be able to embrace recent developments in the field. Music Technology involves much practical work and encourages the cultivation of a wide range of skills. You will have opportunities to: sequence MIDI, sequence audio, record live instruments, produce CDs, and compose using music technology. You will have opportunities to build understanding of the technical processes and principles that underpin effective use of music technology, and comment on it in writing.
Think about the objects that you love. Your mobile phone with its delicious curves was designed on a computer screen; the car you yearn for started life as a reduced size clay model; that building on the corner that you admire sprang into life from the drawing board of an architect. These are not new phenomena. Our fascination with 3D design goes back to flint arrow heads and earthenware pots. As a 3D designer you will be at the crossroads of a number of skills. Of course you need to be creative in order to visualise and imagine the shape and function of the object. But you will also need to know about manufacturing processes, materials and marketing. This course will provide you with opportunities to learn and develop important skills in order to prepare you for your future in the world of design or in the engineering industry.
WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS? General entry requirements and any facilitating subject at grade B or above or an equivalent musical qualification. If you have not taken GCSE Music but have extensive experience in the subject, this will be accepted as an alternative.
WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS? General entry requirements and the following facilitating subject at grade B or above: GCSE English Language.
Entry Requirements for all Level 3 Courses: At least 5 A*–C GCSE grades including English and Maths (vocational courses count as one GCSE).
PSYCHOLOGY AS/A2 WHY STUDY THIS SUBJECT? Psychology is the study of people, how they act, react and interact. It is concerned with thoughts, feelings, motivations and underlying causes of behaviour such as biological and psychological explanations. Psychology is one of the fastest growing A-levels in the country. This course lays an appropriate foundation for further study of Psychology or related subjects in higher education.
WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS? General entry requirements and the following facilitating subject at grade B or above: GCSE English Language.
(PHILOSOPHY and ETHICS) AS/A2 WHY STUDY THIS SUBJECT? Ever since humankind started to think, religion has been a fundamental part of our development. As people look into the vastness of space or witness the miracle of birth, they contemplate the meaning of life and their own existence. Ultimate questions regarding our intrinsic worth and purpose are raised at every trial and difficulty, reminding us that we are human. In the 21st Century, religion still addresses the same eternal questions about life and death, values and relationships, and right and wrong. Religious Studies is an inclusive subject designed for people of any faith or no faith. It is not necessary to have taken Religious Studies at GCSE, although students who have a GCSE will find that the AS/A Level builds on their knowledge, understanding and skills. All that is required is a desire to find out more about religion, faith and their role in people’s lives.
WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS? General entry requirements and the following facilitating subject at grade B or above: GCSE English Language.
SOCIOLOGY AS/A2 WHY STUDY THIS SUBJECT? Sociology is an immensely challenging and exciting discipline. It’s aim is to understand how societies work. It investigates the structures and cultures of different societies throughout the world and throughout history. When you study sociology you will acquire the knowledge and skills to analyse society in the United Kingdom in the 21st century. You will also gain an understanding of the theories and concepts which form a key part of the current debate about contemporary society and the critical changes taking place.
WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS? General entry requirements and the following facilitating subject at grade B or above: GCSE English Language.
SPORT EDEXCEL BTEC Extended DIPLOMA (3 A level equivalent) or subsidiary diploma (1 A Level equivalent) WHY STUDY THIS SUBJECT? If you are a student who has a keen interest in sport and would like to have an involvement in the health, fitness industry or progress to a related course in higher education. This challenging course seeks to develop in all candidates a critical appreciation and understanding of physical activity, within the context of sport and physical education. It takes a multidisciplinary approach with the focal point throughout being the performer and performance, particular emphasis being on the interaction between theory and practice. You will be required to understand that performance in physical activity is influenced by, and dependent upon, a range of physiological, biomechanical, psychological and socio-cultural factors. This diploma is the equivalent of two A2 levels.
WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS? General entry requirements and a keen and active interest in sport. It would be advantageous to be at county standard in at least one sport.
Textiles As/A2 WHY STUDY THIS SUBJECT? If you are interested in fashion, printed and constructed textiles, or illustrated design, then this could be the course for you. Studying Textiles course will give you the chance to explore embellishment and construction techniques. You will find inspiration from a wide range of design specialisms such as product and greeting card design, haute couture, fashion illustration and interior design. Through studying Textiles you will get practical hands-on experience in of a broad range of skills which play an important role in today’s design world and can aid you in accessing a wide variety of very exciting and varied career opportunities.
WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS? General entry requirements and the following facilitating subjects at grade B or above: GCSE Textiles or GCSE Art.
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level 2 courses For Details, See website
Entry Requirements for all Level 2 Courses: 5 A*–E GCSE grades including English and Maths and an interest in the subject.
Foundation Learning Pathway WHY STUDY THIS SUBJECT? Foundation Learning gives you a progression pathway to independent living, further study and employment. The course will include vocational and subject-based learning, personal and social development, and basic key skills. It includes a range of units and qualifications designed to support you in making the transition between secondary school and the wider world of independent living and employment.
Qualifications and Assessments ENTRY level 1 OCR Functional skills (Internally moderated assessments) Diploma in Personal Progress (Portfolio based assessment)
ENTRY level 2 OCR Functional skills (Internally moderated assessments) ASDAN PSD (Portfolio based assessment)
ENTRY level 3 OCR Functional skills (Internally moderated assessments) ASDAN PSD (Portfolio based assessment) ASDAN Employability (Portfolio based assessment) ASDAN Employability (Portfolio based assessment)
LEVEL 1 OCR Functional skills (External exam) ASDAN PSD (Portfolio based assessment) ASDAN Employability (Portfolio based assessment)
Skill areas to be covered will include: Skills for developing your own knowledge and self-awareness, e.g. the skills of finding out your strengths and weaknesses in a given area. Interactive skills, e.g. skills you use when dealing with others; for example, self-Expression, talking clearly, interpreting other people’s motives. Problem-solving skills, e.g. skills you might need to deal with difficult issues or situations; such as finding information, filling in forms, making decisions, making long-term plans about work, leisure or family life. You will also take the Functional Skills: English, Maths and ICT OCR qualifications. Alongside this you could also spend some time following a vocational course at another institution if you wanted to.
HOW IS THE COURSE ASSESSED? Most of your work will be assessed by portfolio/coursework but some qualifications may require you to take a short skills test.
WHAT ARE THE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS? A commitment to completing the course and to continued study and personal development.
WHERE DO I GO NEXT? You will be able to progress onto a range of vocational courses at a sixth form college or go into employment.
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Email: enquiries@cambridgeheath.towerhamlets.sch.uk www.cambridgeheath.towerhamlets.sch.uk