KEY STAGE 5 OPTIONS BOOKLET
INTRODUCTION
Welcome to The 6th Form at Doha College.
This booklet aims to guide you through the options process and provide an overview of the diverse subjects available in the 6th Form curriculum.
Herein, you’ll discover concise summaries of the offered subjects, along with essential information on course requirements and the minimum entrance criteria.
Traditionally, esteemed universities typically encourage students to pursue 3 A-levels. However, at Doha College, students in Year 12 have the flexibility to opt for either 3 or 4 AS levels. Notably, students initially undertaking 4 AS levels commonly transition to 3 in Year 13.
Should you aspire to study a particular A-level subject without having studied the corresponding IGCSE prerequisite (e.g., wishing to pursue Psychology without prior Biology studies), it is essential to engage in a discussion with the Head of Department in your desired field. Their evaluation of your overall performance will be integral to determining your eligibility.
Moreover, students pursuing the Double Award in Science must attain a grade 8/AA to qualify for the study of a separate science subject at Doha College. For non IGCSE applicants, in addition to the standard Doha College entrance assessment test, departments may request candidates to undertake a subjectspecific evaluation, allowing for a comprehensive assessment of the candidate’s suitability for the A-level program.
For any queries:
Internal applicants may contact the Assistant Head (Key Stage 5) Miss S Jackson at sjackson@dohacollege.com
External applicants may contact the Admissions office at admissions@dohacollege.com
GCSE to A Level Pathways
A LEVEL SUBJECTS
• University entrance only requires 3 A Level subjects.
• Maximum: 4 A Level subjects.
• Fewer than 3 A Level subjects can be taken but this may limit university options.
AS LEVEL RESULTS REQUIREMENTS:
• Must pass AS Level exams to continue to A Levels.
• If a student receives a U in any AS subject, they cannot continue in that subject.
GCSE RESULTS REQUIREMENTS:
• To enter Sixth Form: Must attain grades 5 or above on at least five subjects (including English and Maths).
• To choose AS Level subjects: Must attain grades 6 or higher.
AS LEVEL SUBJECTS
Students will study:
• Maximum: 4 AS Level subjects
• Minimum: 3 AS Level subjects
GCSE SUBJECTS
Students will study: A positive pastoral record, including attendance, is also required to move into GCSEs and Sixth Form. *
• Core Subjects:
◦ Maths
◦ English Language
◦ At least 2 Science subjects
• Subject Choices:
◦ 4 additional GCSE subjects
• Total GCSE Subjects:
◦ Maximum: 10 GCSE subjects (11 if studying BTEC Media)
◦ Minimum: 8 GCSE subjects
GCSE PATHWAY
CORE SUBJECTS
All students must take exams in:
• Maths
• English Language
• At least 2 Science subjects
SUBJECT CHOICES
Most students will also study:
• English Literature (as part of English lessons)
• Further Maths/Statistics (as part of Maths lessons)
Students choose an additional 4 subject resulting in:
• Maximum: 10 GCSEs (or 11 if studying BTEC Media, equivalent to 2 GCSEs)
• Minimum: 8 GCSEs*
• There is no flexibility for students to drop GCSE subjects. All students must continue with their full suite of GCSE options.
*For some students, an assessment from Learning Support is made as part of the year 9 options process to determine whether a modified curriculum is beneficial.
ENTRANCE TO SIXTH FORM (AS LEVEL)
MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS
• At least five subjects at grade 5 or above, including English and Maths.
• Students cannot progress to Sixth Form without these grades.
*A grade 5 in English Second Language is acceptable, however, this limits AS subject choice options for students. They cannot study English Language or Literature, and for essay-based subjects entry onto courses is at discretion of the Head of Department.
SUBJECT SELECTION
• For each AS subject, a Grade 6 or higher is required.
• Flexibility: Students may need to adjust subject choices if grade 6 is not met. (The process determining the correct course pathway is led by senior Secondary staff)
• Students take a maximum of 4 AS Level subjects, and a minimum of 3 AS subjects.*
*For some students, two AS subjects might be advisable, but this significantly limits further education pathways.
AS LEVEL RESULTS PROGRESSION TO YEAR 13 (A LEVEL)
• Students must pass their AS exams to continue to A Levels.
• If a student receives a U in any AS subject, they cannot continue in that subject.
• For borderline grades (close to E), consider a priority review of marking.
• If the review of marking results in a grade change to an E, the student can continue with that subject, otherwise they cannot.
A LEVEL SUBJECT REQUIREMENTS
• Students can continue in Year 13 with fewer than 3 A Level subjects, however, this will limit available university applications.
• The maximum number of subjects a student can study is 4. However, for university entrance only three are required. Many students drop one AS subject (if they were studying four) and continue with three into Year 13.
ARABIC - EDEXCEL INTERNATIONAL AS AND A LEVEL AND MOE CURRICULUM
It is designed for students who are studying Arabic in order to enhance their future educational or employment prospects. It is also a foundation for students wishing to progress to further study of Arabic at university.
The IAL Arabic course aims to engage students so that they enjoy advanced level language learning and achieve their full potential. The IAL in Arabic is a modular course, structured into two units with externally marked examinations.
It is inextricably linked to the two language skills of reading and writing in Arabic. Students will be studying contemporary society, cultural background and heritage of Arab countries through documentaries, reading material, and class discussions. Within the AS course, students will consolidate their grammar as well as their communicative skills in a variety situations and via different literary texts.
In Year 13, students will research a range of topics and will be asked to demonstrate independent work and in-depth knowledge of the general topics studied. This will be achieved through essay writing throughout the year and showing clear understanding of the writing techniques to be used.
Students of Arab nationalities are required to select First Language Arabic as a mandatory subject option. This can either be the A level or the MOE Curriculum
““Learning Arabic to A Level will open doors to the Middle East when I return after university”.
- Leonard
course requirements
Grade 6 or above in (I) GCSE Arabic, (or after a successful interview with the Head of Arabic)
Academic Policy for the 3CS
Fine ARTEDEXCEL (LINEAR) A LEVEL
This course is linear and no AS is achieved at the end of Year 12. In Year 12 we will embed and refine observation and drawing skills.
All work from the beginning is submitted as your coursework, and this counts as 60% of the overall mark.
You will investigate and develop art practices (historical, cultural, regional and contemporary art) along with your own ideas, with sustained and fluent drawing and painting skills.
A broad spectrum of media is available: sculpture, 2D skills, print-making, photography and ceramics, though all must be underpinned by knowledge and practice of drawing skills.
At A Level you will also submit a 3000 word personal study based on the artists, media, ideas and techniques that you have employed in your coursework.
The exam unit consists of the same structure but is delivered over an eight week period culminating in a 15 hour practical exam for A Level. This is worth 40% of the final grade.
““Art lets me express my creative side and enhance my abilities that I have enjoyed and hope to continue to enjoy after leaving school”.
- Nikita
Grade 6 or above in IGCSE Art, or evidence of a strong portfolio. course requirements
BIOLOGY - CIE AS AND A LEVEL
The International Cambridge A Level Biology course has been recently updated and now consists of six key concepts:
• Cells as the units of life.
• Biochemical processes.
• DNA - the molecule of heredity.
• Natural selection.
• Organisms in their environment.
• Observation and experiment.
If mastered, learners can use the concepts to solve problems or to understand unfamiliar subject-related material. Students will first complete the AS Level in Year 12 and complete the A Level in Year 13.
Depending on university entrance requirements, it may permit or assist progression directly to university courses in Biology related fields, including Medicine, and is suitable for candidates intending to pursue careers or further study in Biology.
““Biology is the study of living things, and what better subject to immerse yourself in than one that teaches us about the functioning of our surroundings as well as ourselves. It links aspects of our lives together in ways that are borderline genius.
The practical side of biology also provides us with insight of how this subject can be applied in real life, which is great if you want to pursue science research-related fields. From the content point of view, we study matters ranging from the structures of tiny organelles in cells to heavier content such as infectious diseases and interactions of an ecosystem. In a nutshell, biology offers a variety of lessons to learn ensuring an exciting course with no dull moments”.
- Alvi
BUSINESS - EDEXCEL INTERNATIONAL AS AND A LEVEL
This A Level is a natural progression from the IGCSE Business in Edexcel as currently offered.
The International A Level in Business has the global learner in mind, with a specification that can be delivered in an international context to fully equip any student.
AS Level provides an introduction to business practice, the importance of the market and how businesses interact with customers and competitors. A Level will explore the world of international business, and consider change management and growth in global economies.
The course is designed to be studied over two years, with the continued option of a one-year AS Level course. AS Levels can be taken as a stand-alone qualification or used as a stage on the way to completing an Advanced Level. AS represents 50% of an Advanced Level.
Assessment takes the form of a 100% examination, in a data response style with no coursework.
course requirements
Grade 6 or above at IGCSE business.
Successful 6th Form entry with 6 or above in GCSE English and Mathematics
““Business makes me think outside of the box, creativity and innovation is essential to adding value”.
- James
CHEMISTRY - EDEXCEL INTERNATIONAL AS AND A LEVEL
Students will study aspects of Chemistry that are often in the media and affect their lives.
It is important that students have the necessary knowledge and understanding to explain many different aspects of contemporary Chemistry including climate change, green chemistry, pharmaceuticals and chemical research.
The course starts with the core principles of chemistry unit and pupils are then required to apply this knowledge to more difficult, complex concepts.
Both units have examinations at the end of Year 12 along with an alternative to the practical paper. Practical work is a fundamental part of the teaching of chemistry so pupils will be fully prepared for this examination throughout the duration of the course.
The A2 course delves deeper into the ideas of rates, equilibria and further organic chemistry. It also introduces the study of transition metals for the first time. Pupils will have two content examinations and one alternative to the practical paper to gain their A2 qualification.
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“Chemistry is an amazing AS course. You learn about new technology which shows the chemistry behind day-to-day objects like plastic and medicines. Anyone interested in engineering or medicine should consider AS chemistry as it provides an excellent base for university courses”.
- Divya
course requirements
IGCSE Chemistry minimum Grade 6
IGCSE Maths Grade 6
Double science award Grade 8/AA
(Preferably studying Mathematics at AS level in addition to AS level Chemistry)
COMPUTER SCIENCE - CIE AS AND A LEVEL
This course will encourage learners to develop an understanding of the fundamental principles of Computer Science and how computer programmes work in a range of contexts.
Learners will study topics including information representation, communication and Internet technologies, hardware, software development, and relational database modelling.
As they progress, they will develop their computational thinking and use problem solving to develop computer-based solutions using algorithms and programming languages. Learners will develop a range of skills such as thinking creatively, analytically, logically and critically.
They will also be able to appreciate the ethical issues that arise with current and emerging computing technologies.
course requirements
““Everyday life is made up of computers and this subject helps guarantee a future in today’s ever changing, high-tech world”.
- Pablo
Grade 6 or above in IGCSE Computer Science or evidence of a strong programming portfolio. Grade 6 or above in IGCSE Mathematics and English.
(Preferably studying Maths or Further Maths at AS level in addition to AS Level Computer Science)
DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY - PRODUCT DESIGN EDEXCEL (LINEAR) - A LEVEL
Design is the link between creativity and innovation, taking thoughts and exploring the possibilities and constraints associated with products or systems. It focuses on analysis, design development, synthesis, manufacture and evaluation. Reconciling the creative tension between concepts, time, costs and the client is a thread that runs throughout.
Design and Technology achieves a high level of design literacy by enabling students to develop critical-thinking and design skills, which they can apply in a practical context. Many of the skills of research, analysis, planning, problem solving and evaluation are directly transferrable to a wide range of vocations and are valuable life-skills.
The A Level Design and Technology course at Doha College has students engaging in aspects such as digital design, design theory, communication techniques, materials performance, materials enhancement and manufacturing processes, all related to industrial practice. Underpinning it all is the recognition that good product design requires a thorough understanding of people, processes and materials, together with a responsible attitude to the environment and ethics on an international level.
A Level Design and Technology is usually an advantage or a prerequisite in courses as diverse as transport design, mechanical engineering, electronics, biomechanics, sports design, robotics, architecture, process engineering and many more.
Learning best takes place in a practical environment and, much of the course focuses on learning through practical application and project work. This is a two-year linear course. The coursework constitutes 50% of the final grade and students undertake a major design activity, focusing on solving a problem.
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“I enjoy A2 design and technology because you get to express your creativity. The independence that you have allows you to design and create what you want, which gives you a great sense of achievement when the project is completed”.
- Grace
course requirements
Grade 6 or above in IGCSE Design and Technology.
DRAMA AND THEATRE - A LEVEL
Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in Drama and Theatre
Pearson Edexcel A level Drama and Theatre studies is a ‘must do ‘ for anyone interested in how theatre works and the skills needed to produce and perform plays. It is both creative and practical in its delivery, with theoretical understanding at its core.
Students will create and perform a piece of devised work from given stimulus with the influence of a chosen theatrical practitioner, perform in two extracts from a complete play text (monologue and group piece), and analyse and evaluate the creation of theatre in essay form in relationship to their devised piece, and in a written exam where they will discuss two plays studied in class, and a piece of live theatre.
““The whole world is our stage when you study drama, it develops communication skills, builds your confidence and helps you to think creatively. Skills that are great for any career you choose”.
- Lauryn
course requirements
Grade 6 or above in IGCSE Drama
ECONOMICS - EDEXCEL INTERNATIONAL AS AND A LEVEL
Economics A level reflects today’s global world with a focus on the current global issues that impact the economy. Year 12 students are introduced to markets in action and macro-economic performance and policy.
Year 13 expands on both the micro and macro-economics exploring business behaviour and developments in the global economy. The A Level will build on numeracy and communication skills, whilst developing critical thinking and commercial awareness.
The course is designed to be studied over two years, with the continued option of a one-year AS Level course. AS Level can be taken as a stand-alone qualification or used as a stage on the way to completing an Advanced Level. AS represents 50% of an Advanced Level. Assessment takes the form of a 100% examination in a data response style with no coursework.
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“Economics explains how all the stakeholders interact in the market, the theory helps me understand real life and the evaluation skills learnt make me question the validity of data”.
- Thushan
course requirements
Grade 6 in IGCSE Economics OR Grade 6 in IGCSE Mathematics and English.
ENGLISH LITERATURE - EDEXCEL INTERNATIONAL AS AND
The English literature course aims to develop students’ interest in literature, as well as their understanding and enjoyment of all its forms. It does this by providing them with the opportunity to read and respond to a wide selection of prose, verse, and drama written over a period which stretches from medieval times to the present day.
In conjunction with this, the course also aims to extend students’ skills of rhetoric and critical analysis, informed response, and the ability to communicate effectively in writing using a fluent, academic style: vital skills for any university course and, indeed, for life.
Finally, through the texts studied and researched, students develop their knowledge and appreciation of the traditions of literature in English, together with social, cultural, and historical contexts in which texts are written and understood.
Students in Year 12 study the genres of poetry, prose, and drama, and are assessed by two open text examinations. Paper 1 focuses on ‘Poems of the Decade: An Anthology of the Forward Books of Poetry 2002-2011’ and Khaled Hosseini’s ‘The Kite Runner’. Paper 2, focuses on drama, asks questions of students’ knowledge of Shakespeare’s ‘Othello’, and Arthur Miller’s ‘Death of a Salesman.
Students in Year 13 study similar genres at a higher level with texts including two classic novels, a collection of Romantic Poetry, and Shakespeare’s ‘King Lear’. There is also an unseen poetry aspect of the examination at A2.
This course will appeal to students who have an interest in reading a wide variety of contemporary and traditional literature, and to those who are prepared to express opinions and discuss their responses with others, recognising the relevance of literature to their own lives.
““I enjoy being able to both recognise and appreciate links between the texts we study, and a modern drama text”.
- Abagail
Grade 6 or above in both IGCSE English literature and IGCSE English language
course requirements
ENGLISH LANGUAGE - EDEXCEL INTERNATIONAL AS AND A LEVEL
The English language course combines linguistic analysis with original writing, requiring students to recognise how texts are designed for different purposes and audiences, and to recreate this effectively in their own work. In addition, it focuses on new areas of language for students, looking at what happens when the English language collides with other language across the world.
Students develop both analytical and creative writing, both about and in a wide range of forms including travel writing, reviews, blogs, promotional texts, speeches, scripts, and transcripts.
Students in Year 12 deconstruct and recreate a wide range of genres which are either narrative, descriptive, persuasive, or argumentative in purpose. They develop both the ability to create these texts and the ability to analyse other writers’ choices. Students also embark on a course of study around language in transition, developing their knowledge of pidgins, creoles, and other varieties of world Englishes such as New York talk, South African English, and Belizean Creole English.
Students in Year 13 continue to build upon these skills of analysis and composition, together with studying ‘real life’ language in greater depth. There is an independent research aspect to the A2 course which requires students to carry out an in-depth investigation into how children develop speaking, reading, and writing skills between birth and the age of eight.
This course will appeal to students who are interested in analysing and creating a wide variety of forms of writing, and who are interested in how language is used in the wider world.
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“I particularly like being able to form and express personal opinions – and have these valued and discussed - whether they are positive or negative”. - James
course requirements
Grade 6 or above in both IGCSE English literature and IGCSE English language
FRENCH - EDEXCEL INTERNATIONAL AS AND A LEVEL
A Level French is a course where the language, culture and recent history of the Francophone countries will be studied in depth. During the two years, students will be exploring music trends, watching films and reading French literature.
Within the AS course, topics such as changing family structures, education and world of work, media, music and traditions will be studied. There are two examinations at the end of year 12: one written paper which will include listening, reading, writing and grammar tasks and one speaking test, conducted by the teacher.
In Year 13, students will research topics such as immigration, international politics and technological and scientific developments. At the end of Year 13, there are further two examinations; one written paper, which will include listening, reading, grammar and a written research task, and one oral. Also, students conduct analyses and research on a film in the target language which enables them to enhance their language skills, and knowledge of the french-speaking world’s history and culture
““While challenging, AS French is fun and provides many different insights into the culture, which is what makes it so fascinating”.
- Sara
course requirements
Grade 6 or above in IGCSE French.
GEOGRAPHY - EDEXCEL INTERNATIONAL AS AND A LEVEL
Geography offers the opportunity to study a broad spectrum of topics from learning about the most powerful forces on earth to the economic struggles of countries. The world we live in is likely to change more in the next 50 years than it has ever done before. Geography explains why this is and helps to prepare you for those changes.
At AS Level you will study global challenges which explores a number of global headline issues such as natural hazards, climate change, globalisation and population change. Students will have two examinations to test their knowledge and investigative skills.
At A2 the students will be examined on their knowledge and understanding of the how we manage our planet’s resources through modules such as energy and biodiversity. We also study global conflict by looking at the superpowers. Students will also have to show their research skills by investigating tectonic activity and the hazards created.
There is no coursework in Geography A Level.
““Geography is a great subject to learn in an international school as we can look at issues from such a range of cultural perspectives”.
- Ana Fabret
course requirements
Grade 6 or above in IGCSE geography.
HISTORY - EDEXCEL INTERNATIONAL AS AND A LEVEL
History is a subject which promotes critical thinking, and extends research and debating skills through an investigation of world changing events of the past.
History helps develop a formal tone of writing and the changing of opinions into judgments through the use of evidence to substantiate the points made. All of the skills in history are very transferable and are useful for future life. The academic basis of history means it is prized by universities and provides the ideal basis for numerous careers and courses including journalism, law, politics, business, management and many more.
History A Level is a modular course examined at the end of Year 12 and the end of Year 13. All students will sit the Year 12 exams and therefore have the option to only study history for a year. Any students who do not continue into Year 13 will be awarded the AS Level qualification. There are 4 units to the International A Level, each worth 25% of the total qualification. There is no coursework element to the specification.
The topics we study are diverse and are chosen on the basis of broadening students’ historical knowledge and skills, which can be deployed effectively - at university and the wider world of work. In Year 12 we study Britain, 1964-90 and South Africa 1948-1994 (examined in the summer of Year 12). In Year 13 students will learn about American Civil Rights, 1865-2009 and the Cold War in Asia, 1945-1990 (examined in the summer of Year 13).
““I find History fascinating, it’s as much a study of human nature as it is of politics and events. It helps us appreciate mistakes that have been made in the past and how we can learn from them”.
- Taylor
course requirements
Grade 6 or above in IGCSE History
MATHEMATICS - EDEXCEL INTERNATIONAL AS AND A LEVEL
The AS course in Mathematics consists of three modules. Pure 1 and Pure 2 and an applied module in either Statistics 1 or Mechanics 1.
The Pure section of the course contains content on algebraic manipulation, trigonometrical identities, geometric and arithmetic progressions, the beginnings of calculus and proof. There is an expectation that students have fully grasped algebra at IGCSE to be able to access the core content.
In A2 students will continue with their Pure Mathematics in Pure 3 and Pure 4, and be required to choose a second applied module which is either a continuation of their AS module Statistics 2, Mechanics 2 or select one of the other level 1 modules that they did not take in Year 12, Statistics 1, Mechanics 1 or Decision 1.
Students will sit three examinations at the end of each year, one in each module. Each examination is worth one-third of their AS result. AS is counted as 50% of the A2 mark.
““Maths makes me happy and it’s the brain behind everything, it differentiates us from the rest –and yes that pun was intended”. - Alex
course requirements
Grade 6 or above in IGCSE Mathematics.
FURTHER MATHEMATICS - EDEXCEL INTERNATIONAL AS AND A LEVEL
All students wishing to study Further Mathematics must be sitting AS or A2 mathematics.
Further mathematics AS is an extra three modules.
At AS students will be expected to sit Further Pure 1 and two applied modules not chosen in their mathematics course. At A2 students are expected to sit Further Pure 2 and Further Pure 3 and one other applied module that has not already been taken. Students will sit three equally weighted examinations at the end of each year.
The AS marks are 50% of the A2 marks.
““It is the best subject I do and if I can make maths half my timetable why wouldn’t you. Only one lesson of maths a day is not enough”.
- Mohammad
course requirements
Grade 8 in IGCSE Mathematics.
MEDIA STUDIES - CIE AS AND A LEVEL
Media Studies enables learners to demonstrate skills of enquiry, critical thinking, decision-making and analysis. The subject nurtures both an appreciation and critical understanding of mass media and its role both historically and currently in society, culture, politics and the economy. Media pushes learners to make informed arguments, reach substantiated judgements and draw conclusions on the understanding of global issues surrounding the media. Additionally, Media develops sophisticated practical skills by providing opportunities for creative media production.
Cambridge International AS and A Level Media Studies contemporary issues within our media, such as: who has the power to make our media? What is postmodernism? How do changing media landscapes impact society? Coursework components allows students the opportunity to make their one media: a new magazine for the foundation portfolio and a music video plus cross-media products for a new artiste, all using the latest equipment, video editing software and film studio complete with green screen.
““Media Studies teaches me lifelong skills, including the ability to analyse media products critically, the ability to apply practical skills creatively, research and evaluation skills, as well as project management skills. It has given me a suitable foundation for the study of a media course (or related course such as Business) in higher education”.
- Joe
course requirements
Grade 5 or above in IGCSE English language
MUSIC - CIE AS AND A LEVEL
The three key components of performing, composing and appraising are a central focus:
AO1 Listening
In Year 12: Listening 2 hours 100 marks: there are three sections in the listening paper: A: compositional techniques and performance practice B: understanding music C: connecting music.
Externally assessed 60% of the AS Level 30% of the A Level.
AO2 Performing and AO3 Composing
Year 12: practical music coursework 100 marks: two compulsory elements: performing and composing. Candidates must complete: 6–10 minute performance – two contrasting compositions, 1–2 minutes each internally assessed and externally moderated. 40% of the AS Level, 20% of the A Level.
Year 13: there is no longer a written examination. The students specialise in a choice of two out of three main areas, as follows:
Extended Performance Coursework is 100 marks. There are two parts to Extended Performance: 15–20 minute performance and a 1000–1500 word research report externally assessed and 25% of the A Level.
Extended Composition Coursework is 100 marks. There are two parts to Extended Composition: 6–8 minute composition and a 1000–1500-word research report externally assessed and 25% of the A Level.
Investigating Music Coursework is 100 marks. There are two parts to Investigating Music: a 2500–3000 word essay and up to 500-word reflective statement. It is externally assessed and 25% of the A Level.
It is expected that all A-Level Music students will attend at least one music CCA per week - either Senior Choir or Senior Orchestra depending on their instrument
““A fun and interesting perspective on the subject, that really allows you to hone your creativity and evolve as a performer”.
- Kieran
course requirements
Grade 6 or above in IGCSE music. Grade 6 or above in 1 or more instruments. Grade 5 theory.
This course is linear and no AS is achieved at the end of Year 12. In Year 12 we will embed and refine observational and experimental photography skills. All work that you complete from the beginning of the course is submitted as your course work, which is 60% of the overall exam mark.
PHOTOGRAPHY - EDEXCEL (LINEAR) A LEVEL “
You will investigate and develop a unit of work showing an understanding of others art and photography practices (historical, cultural, regional and contemporary art/photography) and your own ideas, with sustained and fluent recording, experimenting and developing.
The four assessment objectives that you will fulfil cover investigating ideas and photographers, exploring and refining use of media and techniques, recording ideas and subject matter with accuracy and finally presenting finished pieces of work that embody your final concepts, showing mastery of techniques and media.
There is a broad spectrum of media available: digital photography, still and moving imagery, cinematography, editing and image manipulation. All must be underpinned by knowledge and practice of lens based media. At A Level you will also submit a 3000-word personal study based on the artists, media, ideas and techniques that you have employed in your coursework.
The examination unit consists of the same structure but delivered over an eight week period culminating in a 15 hour practical exam for A Level. This is worth 40% of the final grade.
“I enjoy photography, it teaches the students to have a different point of view on different images. I recommend it for anyone as it is really fun and creative subject”. - Kieran
course requirements
Grade 6 or above in IGCSE Photography or evidence of a strong portfolio.
PHYSICS - EDEXCEL INTERNATIONAL AS AND A LEVEL
The aim of the International Advanced Level in physics is to enable students to progress from Key stage 4 to Key stage 5 and maintain their enjoyment and interest in Physics.
Students are encouraged to continue to develop their links between theory and experimental work. They will continually improve their creative design in order to collect accurate and reliable evidence.
Students will observe the importance of physics as a human endeavour that has social, philosophical and economic implications. The international course is a modular course.
External assessments are available in January and June but we focus on the June series for most of our candidates. All modules are external examinations, there are three modules for each of the As and A2 courses with the A2 course being synoptic.
course requirements
IGCSE Physics minimum Grade 6
IGCSE Maths Grade 6
Double Science award Grade 8 /AA
(Preferably studying Maths or Further Maths at AS level in addition to AS level Physics)
““Physics is a great subject, it constantly tests your problem solving skills, and helps you to develop techniques that you may have already learnt in maths. Carrying out many practicals with others helps develop teamwork skills, as well as giving you a better understanding of the world in which we live in”.
- Mohammad
PHYSICAL EDUCATION - EDEXCEL (LINEAR) A LEVEL
An A Level Physical Education qualification allows students to play to their strengths and gain dynamic theoretical and practical skills for further education or work.
In Year 13 students will sit one two-hour and one two-hour and 30 minute exam and submit all their non-exam assessment in April.
Throughout the course students will have an opportunity to perform as well as analyse their performance in their specialised sport (30%). This non-exam assessment is where they will produce a video of themselves in a competitive situation as well as producing a written analysis study. During their other timetabled lessons they will develop their knowledge and understanding of the five main areas of study (70%).
These five areas are:
Topic 1: Applied anatomy and physiology
Topic2: Exercise psychology and applied movement analysis
Topic 3: Skill acquisition
Topic 4: Sport psychology
Topic 5: Sport and society
““It is a challenging but rewarding subject and I really enjoy learning about the history and psychology of it especially! Looking forward to taking it for A2 also”. - Maeve
course requirements
Grade 6 or above at IGCSE PE or Grade 6 or above in IGCSE in English and Science.
Taking part in regular compeitive sport outside of school.
Highly recommended to have taken GCSE PE in years 10/11.
Psychology is the scientific study of human behaviour and mental processes. Why would we teach learners about the external world - History, Geography, Chemistry, and so forth - but never teach them about what is happening in their own minds? Psychology aims to make positive, constructive, meaningful, and lasting changes in people’s lives and to influence their behaviour for the better. At A-level, students complete a challenging Cambridge International Examination programme where they gain a greater understanding into human behaviour. Students are introduced to a wide variety of theories, research, and issues/debates impacting contemporary human behaviour. Students can choose to complete just an AS or continue to A2 for a full A Level qualification.
There is a large emphasis on biological science which should not be underestimated. Students will also learn mathematical measures of central tendency and measures of spread; they will be expected to draw bar charts, histograms, and scatter graphs to determine correlation. There is a requirement for excellent written and literacy skills. To succeed in Psychology, a commitment to independent study is required; the large amount of content is not only interesting, but very challenging.
In the first year, research methods will be introduced, alongside the principles of ethics, validity, and reliability. In addition, biological, cognitive, learning, and social theories will be covered together with issues and debates (nature vs. nurture, cultural differences, etc.) using 12 core studies. There will be two external examinations at the end of the year, each 1hr 30 minutes. In the second year, clinical psychology of mental and behavioural disorders will be covered, as well as one from health, consumer, or organisational psychology. Further research methods are learnt, as well as the debates of reductionism vs. holism and determinism vs. free-will. There will be two external examinations at the end of the year, each 1 hour 30 minutes.
Links:
PSYCHOLOGY - CIE AS AND A LEVEL
““I am not what happened to me, I am what I choose to become”.
- Carl Jung
Grade 6 or above in IGCSE English language and Mathematics. Biology is not a requirement, but it is recommended. course requirements
https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/programmes-and-qualifications/ cambridge-international-as-and-a-level-psychology-9990/
SOCIOLOGY - CIE AS AND A LEVEL
Sociology is a linear two-year A Level course where students complete an examination at the end of Year 12 (AS) which contributes to 50% of their overall grade. Students then complete an examination at the end of Year 13 on separate components which makes up the rest of their grade (50%). However, it is possible to take an examination in Year 12 and achieve an AS.
Most students enjoy Sociology as the lessons often deal with topical and controversial issues. Lessons encompass a range of activities including notetaking, answering structured questions, planning and writing essays, debating issues, student presentations, watching videos and preparing for exams. Students will also be expected to research topics and complete written work at home or in study periods.
In Year 12 students look at the importance of research methodology and the scientific debate surrounding the subject. They then explore the processes of socialisation, identity and the role of the family. In Year 13, students dive deeper into the complex issues of globalisation & media as well as the nuances of the education system today.
Almost all universities have large and thriving sociology departments. Sociology can also be taken as a joint degree with other subjects such as English, Media, Psychology, Philosophy and Politics.
Sociology is very relevant to the world of work. Sociology A- Level students or graduates enter a variety of careers including: nursing, police service, advertising, journalism, teaching and lecturing, politics, law, advice and welfare work, leisure and tourism, public relations and students who want to take their studies to post-graduate and beyond are helped by the research methods units tested in paper one and two.
““Sociology is probably the most important subject I could have studied at school. Not only did it improve my writing skills, I didn't expect it to enhance my journey as a student of medicine”.
- Fatima
Grade 6 or above in IGCSE English language, Mathematics and Biology or Grade B in IGCSE Sociology course requirements
SPANISH - EDEXCEL INTERNATIONAL AS AND A LEVEL
A Level in Spanish is a course where the language, the culture and the recent history of Spanish speaking countries will be studied in depth. During the two years, students will be exploring music trends, watching films and reading Hispanic literature.
The AS course covers topics such as the impact of tourism in Spain, changing family structures and the world of work.
At the end of Year 12 there are two examination; one written paper which includes listening, reading, writing and grammar tasks and one speaking examination, conducted by the teacher.
In Year 13, students will research topics such as immigration, history and politics of the Spanish speaking world and technology. At the end of Year 13, there will be a further two examinations; one written paper, which will include listening, reading, grammar and a written research task, and one oral.
Also, students conduct analyses and research on a film in the target language which enables them to enhance their language skills, and knowledge of the spanish-speaking world’s history and culture
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“Learning
Spanish has been one of the most challenging and enriching processes in my life”.
- Catherine
Grade 6 or above at IGCSE in Spanish course requirements
OUR MISSION
With the growth-mindset philosophy of High Performance Learning, we develop confidence, creativity and intellectual curiosity in a safe, caring and inclusive environment for our students to make a lasting contribution to global society.
• Excellence and diligence
• Respect and integrity
• Commitment and accountability
• Perseverance and honesty
• Fun and enjoyment.
• Challenge and reward
