Caterham High School Sixth Form 2018/19 Course & Application Guide
Getting the best from every student
Students’ Successes Elliott What makes Caterham Sixth Form special is the opportunity for everyone to work hard and achieve, and to do so in a friendly and enjoyable environment. I am in the process of applying for university and I am aiming for the very top Universities, as I know this is the level that I can reach, and the school has the same high aspirations for me. Elliott is currently applying to Oxford University.
Jordan Jordan finished her studies at Caterham with five A Levels: A* in Mathematics, Physics, Psychology and General Studies and an A in Economics and Business. She has gone on to study Costume Design at Rose Bruford College.
Michael Michael left Caterham Sixth Form with six A Levels: A* in Business and Economics, English Literature and Mathematics, A in Physics and B in Further Maths and General Studies. Michael studied Economics at Nottingham University and hopes to pursue a career in investment banking.
Savion Savion successfully combined competitive athletics with his studies. Savion gained five A Levels; two A grades in PE and Business and Economics, B’s in Psychology and General Studies and C in English Language and Literature. Savion has now gone on to complete a Masters Degree in Law at Loughborough University.
Milan
Milan, who has a hearing impairment, completed his studies gaining 3 A’s in Applied Business (Double
Award) and Geography and a B in Psychology. He is now studying Human Resource Management at Aston University.
Fatima Fatima is currently studying Medicine and found the Sixth Form environment to be warm and welcoming, with a great support network for students’ university applications.
Gerald Gerald has just started an Economics degree at Loughborough University and found that Caterham Sixth Form has an environment where everyone genuinely wants to succeed, and exceed their potential. It is the diversity, support and outstanding teaching that makes Caterham Sixth Form an enjoyable and pleasant experience.
Aymen My journey at Caterham Sixth Form was nothing short of extraordinary. The teachers were supportive, allowing me to believe in my abilities and achieve the best I possibly could. The diverse atmosphere at Caterham Sixth Form is unique as the students are friendly and encouraging, and this made Caterham Sixth Form the perfect learning environment for me.
Casey and Sitesh In 2017, unconditional offers were received from Winchester and ARU, for Casey (Philosophy) and Sitesh (Banking and Finance) respectively.
Contents How to Apply
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AS and A Levels Art 6 Biology 7 Business Studies 9 Chemistry 10 Drama and Theatre Studies 12 Economics 13 English Literature 14 French 16 Geography 17 History 19 Mathematics 20 Media Studies 21 Philosophy of Religion and Ethics 22 Photography 24 Physical Education 25 Physics 26 Design & Technology: Product Design 27 Psychology 28 Sociology 29 Spanish 30
GCSE Courses (One Year) English Language 36 Mathematics 36
Enrichment Community Languages Personal & Social Education (PSE) Employability Skills
37 37 37
The Extended Project (EPQ)
37
VInspired
37
Vocational Subjects Applied Business (Level 3) BTEC Computing
8 11
Creative iMedia (Level 3)
12
Financial Studies (Level 3)
15
ICT Cambridge Technical Extended Certificate (Level 3) 32 BTEC Health and Social Care (Level 3)
33
BTEC Music (Level 3)
34
BTEC Sport (Level 3)
35
3
How to Apply Welcome from the Headteacher Welcome to our thriving and successful Sixth Form. We have a helpful, caring and tolerant environment where students can enjoy studying, working hard and aiming high. Whatever your aspirations our range of courses, support and guidance can help you to achieve your long term ambitions. We look forward to receiving your application. Dr Alan Atkins, Headteacher
Our Admissions Policy Caterham High School is fully committed to equal opportunities. We welcome applications from all students whatever their background and whatever their needs. All applications will be treated in a fair and positive manner. We encourage our students to believe in themselves as individuals, each different, each developing towards their own chosen ideals and targets.
Our Entry Requirements Those who wish to commence Advanced Level courses should normally have obtained at least seven GCSE passes at grade C or above including at least a grade C (old specification) / Grade 4 (new specification) in Maths and English. Due to the academic requirements of A Level courses, GCSE equivalent courses such as BTEC are not normally accepted as entry qualifications; exceptions apply for BTEC courses. In addition some subjects require their students to have GCSE grade B/5 in relevant subjects. Please check the individual GCSE requirements for each course you wish to take. Students must have at least three D grades at AS-Level to progress onto their A2 courses.
Choosing your Courses You will want to choose subjects that interest you and that you can do well in. If you have a particular career aim make sure that you research which subjects are required at Sixth Form level. If you are thinking about going to University, particularly those in the Russell group (considered to be the top 20 Universities in the UK) certain subjects are recommended: do your research carefully. Art / Drama colleges and Music conservatoires have their own special requirements: please seek advice from the relevant Head of Subject Area. Your choices will need to fit in the table opposite, a maximum of one subject per column. Most students will choose three or four subjects.
A
B
C
D
E
Applied Business
Chemistry
Drama
Business
Art
Biology
Finance
BTEC Health & Social Care
BTEC Computing
BTEC ICT
BTEC ICT
History
French
BTEC Sport
Business
BTEC Music
Maths
Geography
English Literature
English Literature
Economics
Philosophy
Physics
i-Media
Media
Sociology
Product Design
Psychology
Maths
Psychology
Spanish
PE Photography
Sociology
The Government have introduced a number of reforms to make A Levels more up to date and move towards two year courses with one set of examinations at the end. In order to help make this transition smooth for you we will continue to enter you for AS examinations if you are taking A Levels even though they may not count towards the end results in some subjects. Please see your subject teacher for details.
How to Apply Students already at Caterham To apply for your place, please complete our online application form by Monday 8th January 2018. You will be interviewed by a member of the Sixth Form team and will then have an opportunity to reconsider your choices if you wish to do so. Applications after this date will be considered subject to availability of places.
External students If you are a student from another school please apply online using the online application form.
We welcome your application! We will invite you to the school to view the Sixth Form after we have received your application form and reference. We will give you a clear decision as soon as possible after your visit.
Our promise to new students and parents Some schools seem to use long waiting lists and complicated systems to limit the number of new students who can enter. We promise you that we are different. We will give new students every encouragement to obtain their school place, and we will make decisions quickly so that families are not left worrying as they approach their exams.
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Art
Year 13 The A Level Art course consists of a further two units
Duration: 2 years
Unit 1
Board: AQA
Students develop their own response to a project title, such as “Distortion”. They should continue to refine and experiment in their artistic practice and show their technical and critical understanding in an extended essay. (60% of the final A Level mark).
Course Entry Qualifications: 7 GCSE’s at grade A*–C/9-4 including English at grade C/grade 4 and GCSE Art at grade C/grade 4.
Course Description
Unit 2
A Level Art is split into 4 Units over the two years. Our aim is that students gain a broad range of skills and are exposed to a wide range of artists’ work and practices enabling them to become independent self motivated learners capable of making in depth and imaginative art work. Drawing is an essential part of the course and an ability to record from direct observation is very important.
Unit 2 is set by the examining body and it involves a 15 hour supervised task that shows how the students develop their own ideas for a final piece of work. (40% of final A Level mark).
Students will be encouraged to use a variety of media and materials and express their individual thoughts, emotions, ideas and observations in visual form.
Year 12 The AS Art Course consists of 2 Units. Unit 1 Students develop a body of work that focuses developing a wide range of techniques that feed into students’ independent work. (60% of final AS mark).
Unit 2 Unit 2 is set by the examining body and it involves a 10 hour supervised exam where the students develop a final piece of work. (40% of final AS mark).
Possible Careers and Higher Education The UK creative industries currently employ 1.1 million people and are hugely influential across the world. Jobs include, Graphic Design/Advertising, Architect, Media/Fashion Photographer, Fashion/Textile Design, Theatre and Television Set Design, Model Making, Web design.
University courses include Fine Art, Visual Communication, Three Dimensional Design, Fashion, Architecture.
Biology
Core content
Duration: 2 years
• Development of practical skills in Biology Development of practical skills in Biology. This involves ongoing practical tasks that are used to learn practical skills and lead to a practical endorsement award at the end of the 2-year course. 15% of the marks in the exams are based on these skills. • Foundations in Biology Basic components of living systems, Biological molecules, Enzymes, Plasma membranes, Cell division. • Exchange and Transport Exchange surfaces and breathing, Transport in animals, Transport in plants. • Biodiversity, evolution and disease Classification and evolution, Biodiversity, Communicable diseases.
Board: OCR Course Entry Qualifications: 7 GCSE’s at grade A*–C/9-4 including English at grade C/grade 4. GCSE grade B/grade 5 or above in core and additional science, or B’s in the triple sciences. In addition a grade B/grade 5 in GCSE Maths is required. Btec is not suitable for entry onto this A Level.
Course Description This course is designed to offer the students the opportunity to devise and plan experimental activities and to interpret, explain, evaluate and communicate their results. They also develop essential knowledge and understanding of the concepts of biology, and the skills needed for the use of these in new and changing times. Students also gain awareness of the ethical, technological and economic aspects of biology. This course will be invaluable for those wishing to progress into the medical fields. The assessment of practical skills will take place in lessons by the teacher, and also within each exam paper rather than a piece of coursework or a practical exam. The AS and A Level qualifications are now separate courses but are taught simultaneously to enable students to qualify for an AS in the first year. This does mean that the A Level qualification is assessed at the end of the second year: the AS grade is entirely separate, and so does not affect this.
Year 1 content
Year 2 content • Communication, homeostasis and energy Excretion, Animal responses, Plant responses, Photosynthesis, Respiration, Cellular control. • Genetics, evolution and ecosystems Patterns of inheritance, Evolution, Manipulating genomes, Cloning and Biotechnology, Ecosystems, Populations and Sustainability.
Possible Careers and Higher Education Possible careers include technicians within the science or engineering fields. Previous students have gone on to study medicine, dentistry and other biological sciences at degree level.
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Business (Level 3 Applied)
Extended Certificate Level Mandatory units
Duration: 2 years. Equivalent to one A Level
1
Financial planning and analysis
External examination
Board: AQA
2
Business dynamics
Internally centre assessed
Course Entry Qualifications: 5 GCSE’s at grade A*–C/9-4 including English and Maths at grade C/grade 4.
3
Entrepreneurial opportunities
External assignment
4
Managing and leading people
External examination
Course Description
5
Developing a business proposal
Internally centre assessed
This substantial vocational qualification provides a broad and deep understanding of business knowledge and skills to support progress to Higher Education and is suitable for learning alongside other Level 3 qualifications, i.e. A Levels and/or other Level 3 vocational qualifications (such as accounting, sociology, psychology, languages, leisure and tourism, health and social care, retail etc). This qualification will also prepare students to take up employment in business and entrepreneurship, either directly after achieving the qualification or via Higher Education at university or college.
Optional 6
e-Business implementation
Internally centre assessed
7
Managing an event
Internally centre assessed
8
Marketing communications
Internally centre assessed
Units 1, 2, 3 will be completed in Year 1, with units 4 & 5 being the mandatory units in Year 2. One optional unit will be chosen by the school for study in Year 2.
Assessment Format Assessment involves a combination of external examinations, externally and internally set assignments.
Possible Careers and Higher Education After successful completion of this course you can pursue a wide range of careers in business ranging from banking, insurance and retail amongst many others.
Business Studies Duration: 2 years Board: Edexcel Course Entry Qualifications: 7 GCSE’s at grade A*–C/9-4 including Maths and English at grade C/grade 4.
Course Description Theme 1: Marketing and people. Students will develop an understanding of: • meeting customer needs • the market • marketing mix and strategy • managing people • entrepreneurs and leaders Theme 2: Managing business activities. Students will develop an understanding of: • raising finance • financial planning • managing finance • resource management • external influences Theme 3: Business decisions and strategy. Students will develop an understanding of: • business objectives and strategy • business growth • decision-making techniques • influences on business decisions • assessing competitiveness • managing change
Theme 4: Global business. Students will develop an understanding of: • globalisation • global markets and business expansion • global marketing • global industries and companies The course encourages candidates to acquire a range of important and transferable skills: • data skills – candidates will be expected to manipulate data in a variety of forms and to interpret their results • presenting arguments, making judgments and justified recommendations on the basis of the available evidence • recognising the nature of problems, solving problems and making decisions using appropriate business tools and methods • planning work, taking into account the demands of the task and the time available to complete it • conducting research into a specific theme in preparation for one or more tasks • challenging their own assumptions using evidence that has become available
AS Assessment Format All themes are assessed through external written examinations.
Possible Careers and Higher Education Degrees in Business, Finance and Management, Careers in Business, Marketing, Banking.
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Chemistry Course Duration: 2 years Board: AQA Course Entry Qualifications: 7 GCSE’s at grade A*–C /9-4 including English at grade C/grade 4. You must have a minimum of a grade B/grade 5 at GCSE science (double or triple, not single) and GCSE Maths grade B/grade 5. Btec Science is not a suitable entrance requirement for this course.
Course Description Core content Year 1 content • Development of practical skills in Chemistry Development of practical skills in Chemistry. This involves ongoing practical tasks that are used to learn practical skills and lead to a practical endorsement award at the end of the 2-year course. 15% of the marks in the exams are based on these skills. • Physical Chemistry 1 Atomic structure, Amount of substance, Bonding, Energetics, Kinetics, Equilibria, Oxidation, reduction and redox reactions. • Inorganic Chemistry 1 Periodicity, Group 2 the alkaline Earth metals, Group 7 the Halogens. • Organic Chemistry 1 Introduction to organic Chemistry, Alkanes, Halogenoalkanes, Alkenes, Alcohols, Organic Analysis.
Year 2 content • Physical Chemistry 2 Thermodynamics, Rate equations and Kp, Electrode potentials and cells, Acids, Bases and pH. • Inorganic Chemistry 2 Period 3 elements, Transition metals. • Organic Chemistry 2 Isomerism and Carbonyl groups, Aromatic Compounds and Amines, Polymers, Amino acids, Proteins and DNA, Further synthesis and Analysis. Practical techniques are tested in exam questions rather than a controlled assessment or practical coursework. Since Chemistry is difficult, help is available to you at lunchtimes, or you can make an arrangement with the teachers when they are free. You will be given regular tests. We also have a considerable amount of resources and books available for you to borrow. You must be willing to learn new skills, new ways of thinking, learn how to understand scientific literature, have the determination to succeed, especially when you find things difficult.
Possible Careers and Higher Education Degrees in Chemistry, Dentistry, Medicine and Agriculture. Careers in Chemical Engineering, Food Industry, Ecology and Forensic Science.
BTEC Computing Course Duration: 2 years Board: Edexcel Course Entry Qualifications: 5 GCSE’s at grade A*–C/9-4.
Course Description BTEC Computing aims to give students an opportunity to learn and demonstrate a knowledge of the fundamental concepts behind computing. Computing is about designing new algorithms to solve new problems. In this sense it is no more about computers than astronomy is about telescopes. Many great challenges lie in the future for Computer Scientists to solve. This course, with its emphasis on abstract thinking, general problem-solving, algorithmic and mathematical reasoning, scientific and engineering-based thinking, is an excellent foundation for many future challenges.
Sample topics Programming, binary representations & arithmetic, logic & logic algebra, processor architecture, hardware & software, TCP/IP, regular expressions, object-oriented coding, list processing.
Possible Careers and Higher Education This course supports those who want to gain a Level 3 qualification to support further study in Further Education (FE) or Higher Education (HE) in Computing and IT, as well as in Computing and IT related Apprenticeships.
Assessment Objectives • Describe and explain the purpose and characteristics of a range of computing applications and show an understanding of the characteristics of computer systems; describe and explain the need for and use of various forms of data organisation and processing to support the requirements of a computer-based solution; describe and explain the systematic development of high-quality solutions to problems and the techniques for implementing such solutions; comment critically on the consequences of current uses of computing. • Analyse a problem and identify the parts which are appropriate for a computer-based solution; select, justify and apply appropriate techniques and principles to develop data structures and algorithms for the solution of problems; design, implement and document an investigation or effective solution using a programming language.
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Creative iMedia (Level 3)
Drama and Theatre Studies
Duration: 2 years
Duration: 2 years
Equivalent to one A Level
Board: OCR
Board: OCR Course Entry Qualifications: 5 A*– C/9-4 including English and Maths at grade C/grade 4. In addition students should have a least a GCSE grade C/grade 4 in ICT/Computer Science, and a keen interest in iMedia.
Course Entry Qualifications: 7 GCSE’s at grade A*–C/9-4 including Maths and English at grade C/grade 4. Drama A Level is the natural successor to GCSE Drama which is strongly recommended as a pre-requisite students should have a GCSE grade C/grade 4.
Course Description
Course Description
This exciting qualification offers students the freedom to explore the areas of creative media that interest them. Core unit requirements designed to build key skills and a range of specialist units with a focus on creative, media production and ICT skills forming the key skills and grading focus of the units that make up the award. Students will plan, manage and review their own individual project following completion of core units to complete this highly regarded vocational qualification.
Possible Careers and Higher Education Digital Media plays an important part in many areas of our everyday lives and is also an important part of the UK economy. There is a demand from employers for an increasingly skilled and technically literate workforce as more and more media products are produced digitally. Cambridge Nationals in Creative iMedia provide students with specific and transferable skills and a solid foundation in understanding and applying this subject, whether it is in employment or Higher Education.
This is an exciting but extremely challenging course, which offers a real opportunity to broaden your experience in Drama. The emphasis is on drama as an intellectual and artistic subject.
For AS Component One: Practitioners In Practise Devising coursework which is assessed by your teacher, and moderated by an external moderator. You will also devise an original performance piece, where there are performer or designer routes available.
For AS Component Two: Exploring And Performing Texts Learners will perform one performance text, examined by a visiting examiner.
For A2 programme: Component Three: Analysing Performance Learners will explore practically two performance texts on a chosen theme. Written Paper. 2 hours 15 mins
For A2 Programme: Component Four: Deconstructing Texts for Performance Learners will interpret and explore practically a performance text considering how to create, develop and direct a performance for an audience. Written Paper. 1 hour 45 mins
Possible Careers and Higher Education Higher Education at university or college, drama school, teacher training. Careers in theatre as performers, designers, administration managers, educational theatre, drama therapy, social work, teaching, work in local regional or national arts provision, arts administration, film, television and radio.
Economics Duration: 2 years Board: Edexcel Course Entry Qualifications: 7 GCSE’s A*–C/9-4. GCSE grade B/grade 5 or above in English and Maths.
Course Description The course offers a progressive and integrated framework for students to investigate how and why businesses operate within an economy. Students develop an understanding of relevant economic and business concepts, and an ability to apply them to real world issues. There is emphasis on the nature and processes of decision making within organisations. Business behaviour is studied from the perspectives of all stakeholders, including shareholders, managers, customers and the local community.
Course Content Theme 1: Markets, consumers and firms Students will develop an understanding of: • scarcity, choice and potential conflicts • enterprise, business and the economy • introducing the market • the role of credit in the economy • market failure and government intervention • revenue, costs, profits and cash
Theme 2: Wider economic environment Students will develop an understanding of: • business growth and competitive advantage • firms, consumers and elasticities of demand • productive efficiency • life in a global economy • the economic cycle • introduction to macroeconomic policy
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Economics (Continued)
English Literature
Theme 3: The global economy
Duration: 2 years
This theme develops the concepts introduced in Theme 2. Students will develop an understanding of:
Board: AQA
• globalisation • economic factors in business expansion • impact of globalisation on global companies • impact of globalisation on local and national economies • global labour markets • inequality and redistribution
Theme 4: Making markets work This theme develops the concepts introduced in Theme 1. Students will develop an understanding of: • competition and market power • market power and market failure • market failure across the economy • macroeconomic policies and impact on firms and individuals • risk and the financial sector
Assessment Format All themes are assessed through external written examinations.
Possible Careers and Higher Education Degrees in Business, Economics, Finance and Management. Careers in Business, Marketing, Banking.
Course Entry Qualifications: 7 GCSEs at grade A*–C /9-4 including Maths. Grade B/grade 5 in either GCSE English Language or GCSE English Literature, with a minimum of grade C/grade 4 in each.
Course Description During this course you will experience reading some of the most celebrated writers of prose, poetry and drama across 700 years of literature written in English, as well as writers still working today. You will study the many ways in which writers craft their work, as well as how writers are influenced by the times and cultures they emerge from and how their work can be read in a multitude of different ways. You will learn to read texts in more depth and to become a more confident and assured writer yourself. You will understand how English literature continues to reflect the concerns of our world and how it has influenced wider culture. In addition, you will be introduced to the world of literary criticism, considering how others view major works of literature. The core content of the course will involve exploring the genre of tragedy through poetry, prose and drama, looking in detail at works by William Shakespeare, Thomas Hardy and Arthur Miller.
Possible Careers and Higher Education English Literature is sometimes called a ‘facilitating’ subject, since studying English Literature teaches broad skills which are useful for a wide range of degrees, rather than the specialist knowledge that comes from studying a vocational subject. English Literature at A and AS-Level is ideal for those who are considering careers in the arts, law, media and education and it is frequently a well-received qualification for entry into a wide range of courses and careers.
Financial Studies (Level 3) Duration: 2 years Equivalent to one A Level Board: The London Institute of Banking & Finance Course Entry Qualifications: 5 GCSE’s at grade A*–C/9-4 including Maths and English at grade C/grade 4.
Unit 3: Sustainability of an individual’s Finances This unit highlights the importance of financial sustainability for the individual. Students will understand the key external financial factors that influence financial performance and the impact that this has on them as a consumer. They will understand the importance of, and be able to, monitor budgets and adapt financial plans to meet changing circumstances in order to maintain financial sustainability and avoid long term debt.
Course Description
Unit 4: Sustainability of the Financial Services System
Unit 1: Financial Capability for the Immediate and Short Term
This unit explores the financial services system and looks at how financial services providers work and compete with one another, their priorities and responses to external influences in maintaining financial sustainability.
This unit highlights the importance of financial capability in meeting immediate and short-term financial needs, introducing students to the financial services industry. Students will gain an understanding of cash flow through balancing income against expenditure. They will gain an appreciation of the differentiation of financial products for savings and the key features of interest and charges on borrowing.
Unit 2: Financial Capability for the Medium and Long Term This unit highlights the importance of planning for the medium and long term with particular reference to the need to budget for future aspirations and life events. It introduces students to the features of risks and reward in managing personal finances. Students will understand the features of different types of financial services products and how to make informed choices about these products. They will also gain an understanding of the differentiation of financial products for investment and borrowing and the charges attached to them.
Possible Careers and Higher Education After successful completion of this course you can pursue a career in banking or study for degrees at a University (e.g. Business, Finance, Accounting) or alternatively for a specialist degree through the Institute of Financial Services. Degrees offered by the Institute of Financial services include the following areas: Banking practice and management, finance and accounting for financial services and politics, finance and economics.
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French Duration: 2 years (AS and A2 are separate qualifications.) Board: AQA Course Entry Qualifications: 7 GCSE’s at grade A*–C /9-4 including Maths, English at grade C/grade 4 and French. French speakers who do not have a qualification in French will need to undertake an assessment by the French Department to establish whether they are suitable for this course.
Students will study the following topics:
AS Theme 1: Aspects of French-speaking society: current trends • The changing nature of family • The ‘cyber-society’ • The place of voluntary work
Theme 2: Aspects of French-speaking society: current trends • Positive features of a diverse society
Course Description
• Life for the marginalised
During the course you will read and listen to authentic French materials and will study aspects of the contemporary society, cultural background and heritage of a country where the language is spoken. You will have opportunities to develop your understanding and awareness of spiritual, moral, ethical, environmental, health and European issues. You will extend and develop your knowledge of the grammar and vocabulary of French and will use this to speak, write, read and listen to the language.
• How criminals are treated
In addition, you will learn how to:
A2 Theme 3: Artistic culture in the French-speaking world • A culture proud of its heritage • Contemporary francophone music • Cinema: the 7th art form
• be an effective communicator
Theme 4: Aspects of political life in the French-speaking world
• speak and write the language in a range of different situations and for different purposes
• Teenagers, the right to vote and political commitment
• use the language to express facts and ideas • use the language to present explanations, opinions and information
• Demonstrations, strikes – who holds the power? • Politics and immigration At A2 level, students will study the film or book they did at AS in more depth and will also study a further piece of literature. Both will be assessed in the writing paper. At A2 level, part of the speaking examinations will be based on an independent research project of the students’ choice.
AS Assessment Format Paper 1: Listening, reading and writing (45%) (listening, reading and translation into English) Paper 2: Writing (25%) (Translation into French, question on book/film) Paper 3: Speaking (30%) 6–7min (each) discussion on 2 different sub-themes; Stimulus card with follow up questions.
A2 Assessment Format Paper 1: 2 hours 30 minutes (40%) You will answer a range of reading and listening comprehension questions and will be able to control how often you hear the listening material. You will translate from French into English and from English into French. Paper 2: 2 hours (30%) You will write an essay about a text you have studied, then a second essay about a film or another text you have studied. Paper 3: A speaking test lasting 16–18 minutes (30%) This will be conducted by one of your teachers. You will discuss a theme from the topics list and a second theme you have researched yourself.
Possible Careers and Higher Education Degrees in French, Business Studies with French, European Studies, Sciences with French, Law with French. Careers in translating, the travel industry, interpreting, Au Pair work and bi-lingual secretarial work. Languages are viewed as a desirable qualification by many employers showing good communication skills.
Geography Duration: 2 years Board: Edexcel Course Entry Qualifications: 7 GCSE’s at grade A*–C/9-4 including Maths, English at grade C/grade 4 and Geography.
Course Description There are many challenges facing the world today – global warming, development, increasing exposure to hazards, managing environmental processes, environmental destruction and energy security to name but a few. Geographers are uniquely placed to be able to make sense of these challenges and draw conclusions about how best they should be resolved. They not only understand these challenges but their training in a wide variety of skills makes them so desirable in the world of work. It is this that makes Geography so relevant to our lives today. Study in the subject is based on two main principles; the interaction between people and the environment and an enquiry based approach to learning. The Geography Department is well resourced with the required text books and ICT, the latter being necessary for students to be able to use Geographical Information Systems. (GIS). During the course, students are encouraged strongly to subscribe to the specialist magazine Geography Review and attend various conferences. They are expected to keep an up-to-date scrapbook of geography related news as this is vital for personal research. In addition, students take part in a residential field-course in Slapton, South Devon. This is held during the spring term of Year 12 and it is required for them to be able to complete the Individual Investigation which is an integral part of the ‘A’ Level assessment, accounting for 20% of the final mark. A minimum of four days of fieldwork is a basic requirement of the course.
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Geography (Continued) Course Themes There are four core themes studied over two years. 1. Dynamic landscapes – This area includes tectonic processes and hazards, and Landscape Systems – processes and change in either coastal or glaciated landscapes. 2. Dynamic Places – including Globalisation and Shaping Places which examines how areas change. 3. Physical Systems and Sustainability including how the carbon and water cycles influence water and energy security 4. Human Systems and Geopolitics – examining Superpowers and Global development
Assessment Overview Two papers each worth 30% of the total mark. These examine the themes listed above. A synoptic paper worth 20% of the total mark, which bring all the core topics together in an examination of a topical issue. The paper will use three strands, Players, Attitudes and Futures. Independent Investigation – a project based on data collected during the field-trip. This is worth 20% of the total mark. This project can be based on any aspect of the specification and can be a physical, human or integrated physical/human focus.
Possible Careers and Higher Education Geographers are some of the most employable people on the market and they have one of the lowest rates of unemployment for any new graduates. Caterham geographers have an excellent record for going on to read the subject, or others, at university. Geography is one of the Russell Group’s ‘enabling’ subjects necessary for consideration during the application process. Even if Higher Education is not for you, the respect held for geography will open many doors to a wide variety of careers far too numerous to list. However, it is not just the sheer value of the subject in the jobs market but its relevance to everyone in our world, for it plays a vital role in understanding our place in a fast and ever changing world. For that alone, it should be top of the list.
History Duration: 2 years Board: AQA
2M Wars and Welfare: Britain in Transition, 1906 – 1957 This option provides the opportunity to study a period of major change in depth, focusing on key ideas, events and developments.
Course Description
• The Liberal crisis • The impact of World War One • The search for stability 1922 – 1929 • The ‘Hungry Thirties’ • The ‘People’s War’ and peace, 1939 – 1951 • ‘Never had it so good’, 1951 – 1957
Students who study history will develop a coherent knowledge of the past. Students learn the techniques of critical thinking and skills needed to analyse and solve problems.
3 Historical Investigation (Personal Study) Students will study a period of History and write their answer to a question on it (around 3500 words).
Students also develop the ability to communicate arguments and conclusions clearly and succinctly. Students will have opportunities to study significant individuals, societies, events & developments within a broad historical context. Students will be expected to study a range of historical perspectives, for example cultural; economic; ethnic; political; religious; scientific; social or technological.
AS Assessment Format
Course entry Qualifications: 7 GCSE’s at grade A*–C /9-4 including Maths, English at grade C/grade 4 and at least a grade C/grade 4 in either History, Sociology or another essay writing subject.
Students will study 3 Units: 1A The Age of the Crusades, c1071–1204 This option allows students to study in breadth issues of change, continuity, cause and consequence in this period through the following key questions: • What were the motives of the crusaders and the counter-crusaders? • What problems faced the states in Outremer and how successfully were these problems addressed? • How important were faith and ideas for Christians and Muslims? • What was the impact of the crusades on the Muslim Near East? • How did the Byzantine Empire, Outremer and the Latin West change and what influenced relations between them? • How important was the role of key individuals and groups and how were they affected by developments?
Unit 1 1 hour 30 minutes written exam Two questions (one compulsory). 50% of AS Unit 2 1 hour 30 minutes written exam Two questions (one compulsory). 50% of AS
A Level Assessment Format Unit 1 2 hours 30 minutes written exam Three questions (one compulsory). 40% of A Level Unit 2 2 hours 30 minutes written exam Three questions (one compulsory). 40% of A Level Unit 3 3–3500 word coursework on a topic of your choice. 20% of A Level
Possible Careers and Higher Education Degrees in History, The History of Ideas, History and Politics, Careers in civil service, teaching, law, and local government or any career needing logical, progressive thought.
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Mathematics
Students on the AS Level Mathematics course will complete 2 modules of study.
Duration: 2 years A Level
Pure Mathematics (2 hrs 100 marks) Statistics and Mechanics (1 hr 50 marks)
Board: Edexcel
Students on the A Level Mathematics will complete 3 modules.
Course Entry Qualifications: 7 GCSE’s at grade A*–C/9-4 including English and at least a grade B/grade 5 in Mathematics at the Higher Tier.
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Accounting, economics, computing, engineering, design, science, and Higher Education.
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Sequences and series
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Trigonometry
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Exponentials and logarithms
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Differentiation
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Integration
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Vectors
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Statistics and Mechanics
Possible Careers and Higher Education
Algebra and functions
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Statistical sampling
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Data presentation and interpretation
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Probability
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Statistical distributions
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Statistical hypothesis testing
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Quantities and units in mechanics
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Kinematics
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Forces and Newton’s laws
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Moments
All modules are 2 hour exams with 100 marks each.
A Level
Coordinate geometry in the (x,y) plane
Numerical methods
Statistics and Mechanics
Pure Mathematics 2
Proof
Statistics and Mechanics
Topics of study
Pure Mathematics
AS Level
Pure Mathematics 2
Pure Mathematics 1
All students will complete the AS exam in Year 12, and the final A2 Level exam in Year 13.
Pure Mathematics 1
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Media Studies Duration: 2 years Board: OCR Course Entry Qualifications: 7 GCSE’s at grade A*–C/9-4 including Maths and English at grade C/grade 4. For Media Studies you do not need to have studied GCSE Media but must have a good standard of written communication, a GCSE grade C/grade 4 at English with the new exam focused specification is essential.
Course Description
You will need an inquisitive mind, a good standard of English, good attendance and you must have the enthusiasm required to put lots of time into your studies, your background reading and your practical projects.
Possible Careers and Higher Education Media A Level provides a sound basis for a range of Higher Education courses, including Higher National Diplomas and degrees such as English, Journalism, Media Production or careers in the Media, Radio, Television, Advertising, Film, Editing and Production. Media Studies has a strong relevance to those students who wish to pursue careers in marketing or business.
You will learn to analyse and produce media products, understand what images/sounds are used to create meaning for TV Programmes, Films, Newspapers, Magazines, Advertising (posters, flyers, website etc). The course will focus more on the contemporary media landscape and analyse key case studies in contemporary News and Online Media as well as continuing to analyse TV Drama. The course will now appeal more to academic focused students rather than practically orientated students who may find the reduction in weighting for the coursework component (30% of overall grade) an impediment for their successful engagement with the new exam (70% of overall grade) focused specification. You will study a range of media topics in depth for AS and A2, from: Film, Longform TV, Advertising & Marketing, News Audiences, Social Media plus you will have 9/10 weeks Practical/Technical instruction to create your own choice of Media Product coursework, using filming, editing, mixing and or DTP.
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Philosophy of Religion & Ethics Duration: 2 years Board: OCR Course Entry Qualifications: 7 GCSE’s at grade A*–C/9-4 including Maths, English at grade C/grade 4 and with at least a grade B/grade 5 in either RE, History, Sociology or another essay based subject.
Course Description You do not have to be religious to take this A Level, but need to have an appreciation and empathy with other people’s point of view. To do well in this course you will need to have a genuine interest in this area of study; the willingness to read widely; the ability to think deeply and broadly about the issues raised and to express yourself effectively, both verbally and in writing. Following this course will give you the opportunity to develop knowledge and understanding of some of the key questions of life and human experience. We will examine a range of social, religious and philosophical issues from a variety of points of view. You will develop skills of interpretation, evaluation, analysis and self-expression. As a new course, this A Level can provide you with a fresh start. It is both intellectually challenging and
enjoyable, especially if you value debating controversial issues especially about religious faith and beliefs. The subject allows for an in depth understanding of God’s attributes and his characteristics and an analysis of whether these can co-exist. You will develop empathy both verbally and in writing of the need for religion in the modern world, where science claims to have answered many of the ‘Big Questions’. To complete an A Level each pupil will be required to complete 6 modules over a two year period.
Unit 1: AS Philosophy of Religion Learners will study: • ancient philosophical influences • the nature of the soul, mind and body • arguments about the existence or non-existence of God • the nature and impact of religious experience • the challenge for religious belief of the problem of evil
Unit 2: AS Religious Ethics Learners will study: • normative ethical theories • the application of ethical theory to two contemporary issues of importance
Unit 3: Development in Religious Thoughts
Unit 3: Development in Religious Thoughts
Learners will study: • religious beliefs, values and teachings, their interconnections and how they vary historically and in the contemporary world • sources of religious wisdom and authority • practices which shape and express religious identity, and how these vary within a tradition in the context of one religion chosen from Christianity (03), Islam (04), Judaism (05), Buddhism (06) or Hinduism (07).
• Christianity Exam Each unit carries 60 marks with a weighting of 33.3% per exam. AS exam duration is 1 hour 15 minutes with A2 duration being 2 hours.
Unit 1: A2 Philosophy of Religion • Religious Language • Religious Experience • Miracles • Attributes of God • Life After Death; the Soul
Possible Careers and Higher Education This is a serious academic subject. The study of a Philosophy and Ethics A Level Course is accepted by all universities for entry on to a degree course. It is highly regarded in professions such as Law, Criminology, Social Work and Teaching. However, students will find this subject suitable for any career or course they may choose to follow in the future.
Unit 2: A2 Religious Ethics • Meta-ethics • Free will and Determinism • Virtue Ethics • Conscience • Environmental and business Ethics • Sexual Ethics
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Photography Duration: 2 years Board: AQA
Year 13 Unit 1 Students develop their own response to a project title, such as “Juxtaposition”. They should continue to refine and experiment in their artistic practice and show their technical and critical understanding in an extended essay. (60% of final A Level mark).
Course Entry Qualifications: 7 GCSE’s at grade A*–C/9-4 including Maths and English at grade C/grade 4. Art AS students will be given priority for this popular course that has a reduced class size due to limitations imposed by darkroom practice.
Unit 2 Is set by the examining body and it involves a 15 hour supervised task that shows how the students develop their own ideas for a final piece of work. (40% of final A Level mark).
Course Description
Costs and Liability
Students are taught about a range of different photographic processes in both traditional and new technologies. A historical and critical understanding of how Photography has changed since its invention and of how different photographers have employed different techniques and skills is recorded in a sketchbook alongside students practical work. Students start using and understanding traditional processes in photography such as how to make and use their own pin hole cameras and understanding depth of field they then move on to manipulating digital images using Photoshop.
Year 12 AS Photography students complete 2 units of study Unit 1 Students develop a body of work that focuses developing a wide range of techniques that feed into students’ independent work. (60% of final AS mark).
Unit 2 Is set by the examining body and it involves a 10 hour supervised exam where the students develop a final piece of work. (40% of final A Level mark).
Students are required to buy their own photographic paper and film, which students may purchase through the school. We have industry standard cameras that the students can sign out. When students sign out the school cameras they are accepting full responsibility and liability for loss, theft or damage to the camera and are culpable for any costs incurred.
Possible Careers and Higher Education Degree in Photography. Many different types of photographers exist. Freelance photographers can photograph portraits, work in commercial industries (such as taking photographs for real estate agents), or take scientific photographs – one of the most lucrative industries for photographers is the aerospace industry.
Physical Education Duration: 2 years Board: OCR Course Entry Qualifications: 7 GCSE’s at grade A*–C/9-4 including Maths, English at grade C/grade 4 and GCSE A*–B/ grade 9-5 in PE. Individual cases will be considered from students who gain a distinction in the BTEC First Diploma in Sport. You must be actively participating in at least one sport at school or club level.
Course Description This course covers both theoretical and practical aspects of Physical Education. Candidates are assessed through a written theory exam and a practical exam in both Year 12 (H155) and Year 13 (H555). Students will have 9 hours of lesson time over a two week timetable and subdivided by three teachers, who will teach specific topics. Across the two years, candidates study Anatomy and Physiology, Socio-cultural and Contemporary Issues, Sports Psychology and Skill Acquisition. These aspects are then applied to their chosen sports to enhance understanding of performance in physical activity.
Assessment The practical units are assessed through a moderation process and a written presentation. Students are assessed in one sport of their choice (from a list of sports) via a video submission and log book. Students are then graded in isolation practices (H155) i.e. drills and in performance settings (H555) i.e. competitions / games. The theory exam is sat in June and includes short and long answer questions. The theoretical aspects account for 70% of the final grade awarded at the end of year 13.
Unit H155/01: Physiological factors affecting performance • Applied Anatomy and Physiology • Exercise Physiology • Biomechanics, including technology in sport
Unit H155/02: Psychological and socio-cultural themes in physical education • Skill Acquisition • Sports Psychology • Sport and society
Unit H155/03: Performance in physical education (NEA) • Performance or Coaching of an activity taken from approved lists • Evaluation of Performance for Improvement (EPI)
Unit H555/01: Physiological factors affecting performance • Applied Anatomy and Physiology • Exercise Physiology • Biomechanics
Unit H555/02: Psychological factors affecting performance • Skill Acquisition • Sports Psychology
Unit H555/03: Socio-cultural issues in physical activity and sport • Sport and Society • Contemporary issues in physical activity and sport
Unit H555/04: Performance in physical education (NEA) • Performance or Coaching of an activity taken from approved lists • Evaluation and Analysis of Performance for Improvement (EAPI)
Possible Careers and Higher Education Sports and Exercise Science; Physiotherapy; Teaching Physical Education; Sport Coaching; Sports Psychology.
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Physics Duration: 2 years Board: OCR Course Entry Qualifications: 7 GCSE’s at grade A*–C/94 including English at grade C/grade 4. GCSE grade B/ grade 5 or above in core and additional science, or B’s in the triple sciences. In addition a grade B/grade 5 in GCSE Maths is required (as 40% of the course content is mathematics based). BTEC is not suitable for entry onto this A Level.
Course Description Physics involves the exploration of the limits of space, the beginning of time, and everything in between. It is the most fundamental of the sciences, where you use mathematical skills to interpret the world, and indeed the universe. This A Level follows on closely from GCSE Physics, and builds on the knowledge gained by further exploring mechanics, and waves, and then taking this into the more abstract world of quantum physics, particle physics, fields and the many applications that have come from these, from astrophysics to electronic materials. The Physics A Level no longer has any controlled assessment: the practical skills taught through the course are evaluated by the teacher in class and are tested in the exams sat. The AS exam is stand-alone: it does not contribute to the final A Level grade, as this is determined solely by the second year exams.
First year course content • Module 1 – Development of practical skills in Physics. This involves ongoing practical tasks that are used to learn practical skills and lead to a practical endorsement award at the end of the 2-year course. 15% of the marks in the exams are based on these skills. • Module 2 – Foundations of Physics: maths based skills such as manipulating equations, prefixes and vectors in two dimensions.
• Module 3 – Forces and motion: constant motion and constant accelerated motion, projectiles, SUVAT equations, materials physics. • Module 4 – Electrons, waves and photons: Circuits, resistivity, power, Kirchoff’s laws, e.m.f and p.d. Wave characteristics, standing waves, interference effects, photoelectric effect and basic quantum physics.
Second year course content • Module 5 – Newtonian world and astrophysics: thermal physics, circular motion, oscillations, gravitational fields, astrophysics and cosmology. • Module 6 – Particles and medical physics: capacitors, electric fields, electromagnetism, nuclear and particle physics, medical physics.
Possible Careers and Higher Education Possible careers include jobs within the science or engineering fields, or areas where logical thinking is at a premium such as finance or banking. Previous students have gone on to study physics, medicine, dentistry, engineering and other sciences at degree level.
Design & Technology: Product Design
Subject content
Duration: 2 years
AS Assessment Format and Course Description
Board: AQA
Studies in Year 12 have been designed to build upon and consolidate the skills already gained at GCSE and bring together the different design disciplines. You will study the theoretical aspects needed to develop your knowledge and understanding of materials and manufacturing processes as well as the role of the designer in society. There will also be sessions in CAD/CAM. Content in AS matches the first year of A-level content to enable progression onto full A-Level.
Course: A Level Design & Technology: Product Design (7552) AS Design & Technology: Product Design (7551) This qualification is linear, this means that students will sit all of their exams and submit all of their non-exam assessment at the end of the course. Course Entry Qualifications: 7 GCSE’s at grade A*–C/9-4 including Maths and English at grade C/grade 4 and at least a GCSE grade C/grade 4 or above in a relevant D&T subject; Graphics, Resistant Materials, Product Design, Electronics or Textiles. A good pass in Maths and Science is also essential for this course as 15% of the exam units consist of Maths/ Science based questions.
1. Core technical principles 2. Core designing and making principles 3. Additional specialist knowledge
Assessments: 1: Non-Exam Assessment (NEA) What’s assessed: Practical application of technical principles, designing and making principles and specialist knowledge. How it’s assessed: Single design and make project. Context set by AQA. 35 hours, 80 marks, 50% of AS.
Course Description
2: Exam
This creative and thought-provoking qualification will strengthen your critical thinking and problem solving skills within a creative environment, enabling you to develop and make prototypes that solve real world problems. During the course you will investigate historical, social, cultural, environmental and economic influences on design and technology, whilst enjoying opportunities to put your learning into practice by producing products of your choice. This will enable you to gain a real understanding of what it means to be a designer, alongside the theoretical knowledge, practical skills and confidence sought by Higher Education and a number of careers, especially those in the creative industries. During the course there are opportunities to visit relevant exhibitions, industries and lectures to assist with your studies. Examples of these include the Design Museum, Vitra, the V&A, and New Designers.
What’s assessed: Core technical principles and designing and making principles, additional specialist knowledge. Questions: Multiple choice, short answer and extended response. How it’s assessed: Written exam: 2 hours, 80 marks, 50% of AS.
A2 Assessment Format and Course Description In Year 13 there is one single self-directed project. This forms the main practical element of the course and is supplemented with theory aspects such as product disassembly, technological developments and historical influences upon design to enable students to prepare for the final exam.
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Design & Technology: Product Design (Continued)
Psychology
1: Non-Exam Assessment (NEA)
Course Entry Qualifications: 7 GCSE’s at grade A*–C /9-4. Students should have grade B/grade 5 or above in GCSE Mathematics, English and Science.
What’s assessed: Practical application of technical principles, designing and making principles and specialist knowledge. How it’s assessed: Substantial design and make task. Evidence: Written or digital design portfolio and photographic evidence of final prototype. 45 hours, 100 marks, 50% of A Level.
2: Exams (x2) Paper 1: What’s assessed: Core technical principles and core designing and making principles. How it’s assessed: Written exam (Mixture of short answer, multiple choice and extended response) 2 hours, 100 marks, 25% of A Level. Paper 2: What’s assessed: Specialist knowledge, technical and designing and making principles. How it’s assessed: Written exam. Mixture of short answer, multiple choice and extended response questions. Section A: Product Analysis. Up to 6 short answer questions based on visual stimulus of product(s). Section B: Commercial manufacture. Mixture of short and extended response question 2 hours, 25% of A Level.
Possible Careers and Higher Education This course is suitable for anyone interested in a career in ‘Design’. We have had a number of students in the past move into Higher Education to study the following subjects: Engineering, Architecture, Automotive Design, Scenery/Props construction for film & theatre, Industrial Design, Graphics, Illustration, CAD Engineers, Jewellery design, Shoe design, Sports Technology Design, Biomedical Design Engineering, Teaching, Fashion, Material Science.
Duration: 2 years Board: AQA
Psychology is one of the most popular subjects in schools and universities because it is fun to study and useful in a wide range of professions. Modern Psychology Includes elements of neuro-science, evolutionary theory and genetics. Universities regard it as a science, with equal status to Biology, Chemistry and Physics.
Course Description The AQA Syllabus includes a range of interesting topics such as: • Approaches: Different ways of studying Psychology. • Abnormal Psychology: The causes and treatment of psychiatric illness. • Biopsychology: Scientific explanations of how the brain works. • Memory: How we remember things and why we sometimes forget. • Attachment: Explaining attachment between children and their parents. • Social Psychology: Why some people do as they are told, whilst others don’t. • Scientific Research Methods. • Relationships: Why people are attracted to each other? Why do we fall in love? Why do some relationships last whereas others break up? • Schizophrenia: the causes and treatment of a major psychotic illness. • Aggression: What causes aggression? Why are some people more aggressive?
This is the perfect course for someone who is good at Maths and Science but also enjoys discussion and writing. The departmental staff are very experienced and the lessons are interesting and well organised. You will find that your knowledge of psychology helps you to understand people better and improves your self-confidence. Skills learned in Psychology will help you to get better results in other subjects as you will be able to improve your own mental processes.
Possible Careers and Higher Education This course is ideal for those who wish to study medicine, or clinical psychology as well as a wide range of other careers such as educational psychology, forensic psychology, nursing, social work, teaching, counselling, human resource management, educational psychology, criminology, politics, public relations, advertising and journalism.
Sociology Duration: 2 years Board: AQA Course entry Qualifications: 7 GCSE’s at grade A*–C /9-4 including Maths, English at grade c/grade 4 and either Sociology, History or another essay writing subject. If a student has taken GCSE Sociology they should have achieved a grade B/grade 5 in the full exam course.
Course Description Studying Sociology will improve your understanding of yourself and your relationship with others in the context of the wider society in which you live. The skills required rely upon understanding and analysing the nature of scientific method; objectivity and the relative values of quantitative and qualitative methods. There are opportunities to develop your understanding of spiritual, moral and cultural issues throughout the course. Candidates will learn to appreciate that society is made up of a rich variety of groups from different social cultural and religious backgrounds. You will be encouraged to reflect upon these within a sociological framework in relation to your own beliefs. A Level Sociology develops your ability to interpret and evaluate information and to apply knowledge in a variety of social contexts. • Families and Households • Education and sociological methods • Beliefs in Society • Crime and deviance and theory and methods
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Sociology (Continued)
Spanish
Skills you will gain include:
Duration: 2 years (AS and A2 are separate qualifications.)
• Leadership • Critical thinking • Effective speaker • Deconstructing and applying material • Transferable skills • Looking at the global aspect of Sociology
Board: AQA
Possible Careers and Higher Education A Level Sociology is a respected qualification and is accepted for entrance to all universities. It is particularly useful for careers in Media; Market Research and Advertising, Journalism; Community and Social Work; Local Government and the Civil Service, Public Relations; Law; Business Management; Teaching; Police; Health and other Public services.
Course Entry Qualifications: 7 GCSE’s at grade A*–C /9-4 including Maths, English and Spanish at grade c/ grade 4. Spanish speakers who do not have a qualification in Spanish will need to undertake an assessment by the Spanish Department to establish whether they are suitable for this course.
Course Description During the course you will read and listen to authentic Spanish materials and will study aspects of the contemporary society, cultural background and heritage of a country where the language is spoken. You will have opportunities to develop your understanding and awareness of spiritual, moral, ethical, environmental, health and European issues. You will extend and develop your knowledge of the grammar and vocabulary of Spanish and will use this to speak, write, read and listen to the language. In addition, you will learn how to: • be an effective communicator • speak and write the language in a range of different situations and for different purposes • use the language to express facts and ideas • use the language to present explanations, opinions and information Students will study the following topics:
AS Theme 1: Social Issues and Trends • Family • Use of the Internet • Gender equality
Theme 2: Political and Artistic Culture
A2 Assessment Format
• Influence of celebrities and idols • Regional Identity in Spain • Spanish heritage At AS Level, students will study a film or book which will be assessed in the writing paper.
Paper 1: 2 hours 30 minutes (40%)
A2 Theme 3: Immigration and multicultural society
Paper 2: 2 hours (30%)
• Origins of Spanish immigration • Muslim influence in Andalusian culture • Influence of immigration in North Africa and Latin America • Benefits and challenges of immigration
Theme 4: Franco’s dictatorship and transition to democracy • The role of King Juan Carlos • Spanish Civil War • Political oppression / censorship • Divisions in society At A2 level, students will study the film or book they did at AS in more depth and will also study a further piece of literature. Both will be assessed in the writing paper.
You will answer a range of reading and listening comprehension questions and will be able to control how often you hear the listening material. You will translate from Spanish into English and from English into Spanish. You will write an essay about a text you have studied, then a second essay about a film or another text you have studied. Paper 3: A speaking test lasting 16–18 minutes (30%) This will be conducted by one of your teachers. You will discuss a theme from the topics list and a second theme you have researched yourself.
Possible Careers and Higher Education Degrees in Spanish, Business Studies with Spanish, European Studies, Sciences with Spanish, Law with Spanish. Careers in translating, the travel industry, interpreting, Au Pair work and bi-lingual secretarial work. Languages are viewed as a desirable qualification by many employers showing good communication skills.
At A2 level, part of the speaking examinations will be based on an independent research project of the students’ choice.
AS Assessment Format Paper 1: Listening, reading and writing (45%) (listening, reading and translation into English) Paper 2: Writing (25%) (Translation into Spanish, question on book/film) Paper 3: Speaking (30%) 6–7min (each) discussion on 2 different sub-themes. Stimulus card with follow up questions.
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ICT (Level 3 Cambridge Technical Extended Certificate) Duration: 2 years, 360 GLH (equivalent 1 A Level) Board: OCR Course Entry Qualifications: 7 GCSE’s at grade A*–C/9-4 including Maths and English at grade C/grade 4.
Course Description This qualification is designed for learners 16 years old or over who want to continue their education through applied learning by developing their knowledge and understanding of the principles of IT and global information systems.
Units of Study Three externally examined units and a choice of two further units which are centre-assessed and moderated by us. It will provide learners with the opportunity through applied learning to develop the core specialist knowledge, skills and understanding required in the IT sector. Learners will study three mandatory units: • Unit 1: Fundamentals of IT • Unit 2: Global Information • Unit 3: Cyber Security This qualification includes a choice of optional units, including: • Unit 8: Project Management • Unit 9: Product Development • Unit 11: System Analysis and Design
Possible Careers and Higher Education This course supports those who want to gain a Level 3 qualification to support further study in Further Education (FE) or Higher Education (HE) in IT, as well as IT related Apprenticeships. Achievement of this qualification can support progression to go on and study relevant IT degrees in a Higher Education institution such as, Computing and IT, Computing Science, Software Developments, Software Engineering, ICT and Computer Networks or Business Information Systems.
BTEC Health and Social Care (Level 3) Duration: 2 years (equivalent 1 A Level) Board: Edexcel Course Entry Qualifications: 5 A*-C/9-4 grades at GCSE Level including a C/4 in English Language as well as Science.
Course Description Health and Social Care stands out from other A Levels and BTECs as it gives you the skills and training head-start that you need in any career where you are working primarily for the care and wellbeing of other people. It will improve your understanding of yourself and your relationship with others not just in wider society but in specific health and social care contexts. Assessments are in the form of exams, coursework and vocational work experience.
Skills you will gain include: • Leadership • Critical thinking and problem solving • Effective communication • Presentation, extended writing and analysing case studies • Interpersonal skills • Team-working
Possible Careers and Higher Education Health and Social Care is a respected vocation and is recognised by higher education institutions and employers as a vital pathway into different careers as it is very skills focused which can set you aside from other qualifications. Choices include Nursing, Primary Education, Children’s Play, Learning and Development, Social Work, Sport, Sports Studies and Development, Psychiatry, Physiotherapy, Adult Learning and many more. Students should always check the entry requirements for degree programmes with specific higher education providers.
1st Year Modules: • Human Lifespan Development (1.5 hour exam) • Meeting Individual Care and Support Needs (coursework) 2nd Year Modules: • Working in Health and Social Care (1.5 hour exam) • ONE of the following: sociological perspectives/ psychological perspectives/ supporting individuals with additional needs/ physiological disorders and their care (coursework)
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BTEC Music (Level 3) Duration: 2 years Board: Edexcel Course Entry Qualifications: 5 GCSE’s at grade A*–C/94 including Maths and English grade C/grade 4 with at least a grade C /grade 4 in Music, or a Merit in a Level 2 Music qualification.
Course Description BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Music (Performing) is equivalent to one A-level.
Core Units (30 credits): • Music Performance Techniques (Compulsory) 10 credits • Solo Performance Music Skills (Compulsory) 10 credits • Working and Developing as a Musical Ensemble (Compulsory) 10 credits Through these units you will develop a variety of skills and techniques on your primary instrument (this can be any instrument, including voice) which you will practice both in class and during your free time. You will be expected to produce concerts that last 30 minutes for the solo and 30 minutes for the ensemble, so you need to be confident with performing for a long period of time. Optional Units: (Must total 30 credits) which will be chosen together with your teachers • Composing Music 10 credits You will learn how to compose your own pieces of music at a more advanced level than Level 2/GCSE. You will need to compose in three different styles and produce a full length composition. This may be created through sheet music, lead sheet or audio recordings.
• Improvising Music 10 credits You will learn how to improvise in a variety of styles and develop techniques to create music ‘on the spot’. • Music in the Community 10 credits You will take on the role of teacher within a primary school and lead a variety of music sessions for younger students. They must be engaging, exciting and musically beneficial. • Singing Techniques and Performance 10 credits You will develop skills and techniques specific to singing. • Aural Perception Skills 10 credits You will develop your musical ‘inner ear’ showing a good understanding of music and how it is created. • Pop Music in Practice 10 credits You will study a variety of different pieces of pop music to understand their context, how they were composed and why they were popular. You will then perform in a pop style using the knowledge you have gained and evaluate it’s success.
Possible Careers and Higher Education Careers in performing, teaching, composing, music therapy, management and the recording industry. Degrees in music, performing arts, music technology. Any careers involving public speaking, as music greatly develops your ability to perform and present yourself. When seeking employment or a place at university students are finding that a breadth of interest and a diversity of skills are becoming more effective than a narrow specialisation in determining the success of their applications. A high grade in A Level music, therefore – showing evidence of academic study, self-discipline, creative self-expression, an awareness of cultural heritage and an enhanced listening capability – is a much respected and sought-after qualification.
BTEC Sport (Level 3) Duration: 2 years (equivalent 1 A Level) Board: Edexcel Course Entry Qualifications: 5 GCSEs grade A*–C /9-4 including English, Maths at grade C/grade 4, Science and PE. Alternatively a Distinction grade on an appropriate Level 2 programme and Functional Skills may also be sufficient. This course requires pupils to be able to produce a number of extended writing pieces along with the use of various ICT packages.
Course Description Some of the areas covered include: • Anatomy and Physiology for exercise • Principles of Exercise, Fitness and Health • Knowing how to support clients who take part in exercise and physical activity • Developing career skills and understanding career opportunities in sport • Leadership in sports (Leading sessions, officiating games and providing opportunities for sport) • The process of acquiring skills in sport
This course allows students to gain UCAS points that can allow them to pursue Higher Education opportunities. Pupils will also be expected to play a part in sports provisions in the school, participating in school teams, assisting in the delivery of clubs as well as specific events such as sports day. This experience will help them create their portfolio for the course (a requirement) as well as for their UCAS application statements.
Possible Careers and Higher Education The course promotes looking at sport from a number of views, offering you experience as a leader, a trainer, a provider as well as an informed individual in the field of sport. Successful students may be equipped to pursue Sports Science, Sports Studies or with relevant commitment to coaching/teaching a related degree in these areas.
This Level 3 course is ideal for those with a keen interest in sport who wish to pursue the vocational nature of the course. Pupils will complete mixture of mandatory units assessed through externally set and marked exams as well as a series of assignments, all which must be completed successfully. Often these assessments will involve pupils planning to complete sessions in their own time and gathering video evidence of this, this is usually followed up with a detailed written report/ evaluation. There will be 4/5 hours of theory lessons per week in order to help you prepare for assessments, these will be coupled with independent tasks and research. On some occasions lessons may have a practical nature; although this will be based around the topic in hand rather than as sports participation.
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GCSE Courses (One Year) English Language
Mathematics
Duration: 1 year
Duration: 1 year
Board: AQA
Board: Edexcel
Course Entry Qualifications: This course provides an opportunity for you to improve your English GCSE result if you have not already achieved grade C/grade 4 or above.
Course Entry Qualifications: This course provides an opportunity for you to improve your mathematics GCSE grade if you have not already achieved a grade 4 or above.
Course Description
Course Description
You will work on the skills of reading and writing and will be assessed by two exams: Paper 1: Explorations in Creative Reading and Writing
The new GCSE grade 4 is currently equivalent to the previous GCSE grade C and the course follows the Level 2 Pearson Edexcel GCSE (9 to 1) in Mathematics.
Paper 2: Writers’ Viewpoints and Perspectives,
The assessments will cover the following content headings:
Your skills as a speaker will be endorsed separately.
• • • • • •
Number Algebra Ratio, proportion and rates of change Geometry and measures Probability Statistics
Two tiers are available: Foundation and Higher. The qualification will be graded and certificated on a nine-grade scale from 9 to 1, using the total marks across all three papers where 9 is the highest grade. • Foundation tier – grades 1 to 5 available • Higher tier grades – 4 to 9 available (grade 3 allowed) You will be expected to attend all lessons regularly and practice exam questions. A grade 4 or above is required for almost all careers in life.
Enrichment Opportunities Community Languages
The Extended Project (EPQ)
If you are proficient in all four areas of language (speaking, listening, reading and writing) you may take examinations at AS/A2 Level. It will be your responsibility to look at past papers and prepare yourself for the examination. Recent subjects taken include: Spanish, German, Turkish, Urdu and Arabic. Other Language examinations are available.
The Extended Project is a single piece of work of a student’s choosing that requires evidence of planning, preparation, research and independent learning. It is available as a standalone qualification for A Level students or may form part of a diploma qualification.
Personal & Social Education (PSE)
• a design; • a report with findings from an investigation or study; • a dissertation presenting an argument; • an artefact; • a performance.
All students participate in the course in Personal and Social Education, including Careers Education, Citizenship, discussion of moral issues and lessons in the dangers of drugs and alcohol abuse. The programme of study is designed to support the growth of students as individuals and to develop the key life skills needed for the work place.
Employability Skills All students participate in a number of employability and Work Skills sessions that are run throughout the year, including the following areas: • CV and Applications • Interview Skills • Time Management Students will also have the opportunity to take part in a two week Work Experience placement in the summer term. We also offer Industry Insight days and apprenticeship opportunities to students throughout the school year. We offer the Duke of Edinburgh Award at Gold Level.
An Extended Project might be:
The Extended Project offers opportunities for learners to: • have significant input into the choice and design of an extended piece of work; • develop and apply decision-making skills, problem-solving skills, initiative and enterprise; • extend their planning, research, critical-thinking, analytical, synthesis, valuation and presentation skills; • use their learning experiences to support their personal aspirations for Higher Education and career development. The skills that students develop through the Extended Project are directly relevant to, and useful for, university-level study. Students can refer to the Extended Project in their UCAS personal statements and at interview to demonstrate some of the qualities that universities are looking for.
VInspired Students have the opportunity to gain national recognition for any volunteering work that the carry out during their time at Caterham High School. They can even claim between 10-30 hours from the NCS programme that they may have participated in during the summer months.
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Caterham High School Sixth Form Caterham Avenue, Clayhall, Ilford, Essex IG5 0QW Tel: 020 8551 4321 Fax: 020 8551 1933 SixthForm@ecaterham.net www.ecaterham.net