A guide to choosing an A Level course

January 2019

Contents Page

Chapter

5-8

10-15

Introduction: Important guidelines for making your choice GCSE performance and making an application to a competitive university Advanced Level subjects required for university courses

16-17

List of Advanced Level Subjects

18-19

Arabic

20-21

Art and Design

22-23

Biology

24-25

Chemistry

26-27

Computer Science

28-29

Design Engineering

30-31

Economics

32-33

English Language

34-35

English Literature

36-37

French

38-39

Geography

40-41

German

42-43

History

44-45

Latin

46-47

Mathematics

Further Mathematics

49-50

Music

51-52

Philosophy

53-54

Physics

55-56

Politics

Psychology

58-59

Russian

60-61

Spanish

62-63

Sports Science

64-65

Theatre Studies

66-67

Theology

Abbrev

January 2019 Page | 3

Appendices Page

Chapter

68-69

Choosing your A Level Courses â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Subject Specific Guidance

UCAS Advisers 2019/2020

71-73

Advice for those intending to study Classics

74-75

Advice for those intending to study Computer Science

76-77

Advice for those intending to study Dentistry

79-80

Advice for those intending to study Economics

81-84

Advice for those intending to study Engineering

85-86

Advice for those intending to study English Literature

87-88

Advice for those intending to study English Language

89-91

Advice for those intending to study Geography

92-94

Advice for those intending to study History

95-96

Advice for those intending to study Law

97-98

Advice for those intending to study Mathematics

99-102

Advice for those intending to study Medical Science

103-104

Advice for those intending to study Modern Languages

105-108

Advice for those intending to study Natural Sciences

109-110

Advice for those intending to study Philosophy

111-113

Advice for those intending to study PPE

114-115

Advice for those intending to study Politics

116

Advice for those intending to study Theology

117-119

Advice for those intending to study Veterinary Science

January 2019 Page | 4

INTRODUCTION LIFE IN THE SIXTH FORM AT HABERDASHERS’ Life in the Sixth Form at Habs brings both privileges and responsibilities, alongside a need for real commitment to independent study, self-discipline and a readiness to make full use of the opportunities for personal development that we offer.

ADMISSION TO THE SIXTH FORM Admission to the Sixth Form at Habs is not automatic. It is conditional upon a satisfactory record of personal conduct, motivation and progress through the Middle School, and an excellent performance at GCSE. If the School has concerns about any of these areas you will be notified during the course of Year 11. Heads of Department will also need to be satisfied that you are adequately qualified for the particular courses you elect to follow.

GCSE SUBJECT REQUIREMENTS As a general rule, where possible, you should have studied your choice of A Level subjects to GCSE. Each subject in the Sixth Form has specific GCSE grade requirements; please refer to the individual course guides. The minimum GCSE grade to continue to study the subject at A Level is a Grade 8 although please refer to individual subjects for guidance. The following new subjects are an obvious exception to this rule: Economics – a Grade 8 in GCSE Maths is expected. Philosophy - a Grade 8 in a related GCSE, such as Theology, English or History, is expected. Politics - a Grade 8 in a related GCSE, such as English or History, is desirable. Psychology – a Grade 8 in a related GCSE such as Theology is expected. In addition, the following subjects may allow students who have not studied GCSE to join their A Level courses: Computing Design Engineering Geography History Theatre Studies Theology Sports Science Heads of Departments will always be happy to discuss individual issues.

Pupils will only be permitted to continue to study a course to A Level (U6) if they achieve at least a C grade at the end of the L6th year.

January 2019 Page | 5

CHOOSING YOUR A LEVEL SUBJECTS You need to choose four academic subjects to study in the Lower Sixth that lead to examinations (external or internal) in June 2020. Students will sit examinations irrespective of whether they intend to continue with the study of the subject in the U6th. Following these examinations, most pupils will continue to study three of these subjects in the Upper Sixth, leading to A Level examinations in June 2021 (in the case of students studying Further Mathematics, all four L6th courses are pursued to the end of the U6th. We strongly recommend that A Levels should be chosen primarily based on interest and ability. Higher education and career aspirations can be relevant factors, but success in the examination depends on motivation. It is unwise to allow vocational goals to outweigh genuine commitment to a particular discipline. The national aim of the reformed post-16 curriculum is to broaden the range of Sixth Form study, an aim which we have supported and practised for many years.

USING THE LIBRARY The School’s library is an excellent source of information and inspiration. All pupils will be expected to use the library regularly during their A Level studies for further research, wider reading or silent working. These are skills that all universities demand of their students. The Library retains an impressive stock of A Level and University level texts, which may help Year 11 pupils to understand the content and nature of a subject at a higher level. The excellent Library team are readily available to support and guide all pupils in their studies. This is a wonderful resource and we encourage the boys to take full advantage of it.

AS LEVELS & L6th EXAMINATIONS Each department at Haberdashers’ Askes’ Boys’ School has chosen whether or not to sit candidates for AS examinations at the end of the L6th year. For those subjects that have chosen to not enter pupils into the external AS examinations, they have designed a rigorous end of year assessment which is able to accurately predict A Level (U6th) performance and has been externally verified to ensure reliability. Most pupils at Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ School study four subjects in the L6th and then drop to three subjects in the U6th. Pupils who study a subject which does not offer AS levels, will not gain a qualification in this subject at the end of the L6th if they decide to cease studying the subject in the U6th. If pupils study a subject in the L6th which does enter candidates for AS examinations, these pupils will be awarded an AS qualification at the end of the L6th year if they cease studying the subject in the U6th.

CO-EDUCATION & CO-TEACHING This year we may, in a small number of subjects, combine some A Level subject teaching with Haberdasher’s Aske’s School for Girls. This may apply to subjects in which there is a clear education benefit from co-education (e.g. Theatre Studies) or where numbers in a subject are very low. Should the timetable permit Art, Classics (Greek), Design Engineering, Drama, German, Sports Science (PE), Music, Computing and Russian and Psychology may be co-taught with the Girls’ School.

A LEVEL CHOICES AND HIGHER EDUCATION Universities are demanding increasingly accurate A Level predictions. At Haberdashers’ these predictions will be based upon performance at the end of L6th examinations. For most subjects these examinations may be in the form of external AS examinations, for other subjects, the examination may be one designed by Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ School and externally verified.

January 2019 Page | 6

Our guidance to pupils remains unchanged. Students who already know which degree course they wish to follow should start researching university entrance requirements now as these may well affect their choice of A Level subjects. Entrance requirements for higher education courses can only be loosely specified in this booklet, and they sometimes vary between universities. You will find the UCAS website (www.ucas.com) particularly useful in this respect. If you click on ‘course search’ you will create a list of all the courses available and their entrance requirements.

CHOOSING A LEVELS FOR ENTRY TO A RUSSELL GROUP UNIVERSITY The Russell Group of universities has produced an informative guide to choosing A Level subjects for their degree courses. The guide is called: Informed Choices and can be downloaded from the Russell Group website as a pdf: www.russellgroup.ac.uk. The Russell Group of universities has identified the fact that some subjects are required for entry to a related degree course. For example, Mathematics A Level is required if students wish to read Mathematics, Engineering or Physics at university. Thus, Mathematics is a facilitating subject. By contrast, other subjects are not required on entry to university. For example, A Level Law is not a facilitating subject because it is not a requirement for any degree course.

‘FACILITATING SUBJECTS’ The use of the term facilitating subject is not a judgement on the quality of the A Level. All the A Levels on offer at Haberdashers’ are academically rigorous and have proved themselves to be excellent preparation for university. Achieving high A Level scores, across all subjects, is the key to all competitive university courses and this is best achieved when students are motivated and stimulated by subjects they enjoy: students should make their A Level subject choices on the basis of interest and ability. By following the guidance given on the following pages and discussion with teachers and tutors, students will make the right subject choice that allows them to make a strong application to the university of their choice.

CHOOSING A LEVELS FOR ENTRY TO CAMBRIDGE There is a statement on both the Cambridge website and in the Cambridge Prospectus which lists certain subjects that, if taken in combination, may cause a problem at entry. Cambridge has made it very clear that it IS acceptable to study any two of these subjects to A Level and any one to A Level. For some admissions the diversity these subjects offer can even look favourable. All the subjects that we offer at Habs are academically rigorous. Our best advice, which is based on many years of experience preparing students for a wide range of highly competitive courses, continues to be ‘study what you enjoy’. This will enable you to achieve the very high L6th exam results, which are a prerequisite for success in any higher education application.

SUBJECT COMBINATIONS For competitive applications the combination of subjects is highly important and therefore consideration should be taken regarding all four subjects. Admissions tutors look at the entire profile of a student before making an offer. It is important to bear in mind that university departments are dealing with a great variety of offered qualifications from UK and international applicants and that is why their website can be vague as to which subjects they prefer applicants to offer; a Habs applicant, who has many courses from which to choose at A Level can offer a most appropriate combination of courses. As well as the compulsory keystone subjects you offer it is in your interest to offer subjects which develop complementary skills. Universities will want to see that a student can develop skills in other subjects which enhance them as an January 2019 Page | 7

overall student. The 4th subject may provide diversity and demonstrate breadth of understanding; something many competitive universities seek. However, these skills must be relevant to the course. For example, students wishing to read English at university should not be studying Physics as a 4th subject, however, Languages are complemented by the skills learnt in English and Latin. For the best advice regarding subject combinations pupils must speak with their university applications advisor, their teachers, Heads of Department, access subject specific information provided on HabsNet, and telephone university Undergraduate Admissions tutors, giving them full information of what is on offer to you in the Sixth Form curriculum here at Habs.

January 2019 Page | 8

GCSE performance and making an application to a competitive university Most students at Haberdashersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; choose to make competitive applications to university. A competitive application is one made to a popular course where there is exceptionally high demand. These courses include: Medicine Dentistry Law Economics PPE Finance and Management. Many students also choose to apply to competitive courses at competitive universities such as: Bristol Cambridge Durham Edinburgh Imperial Kings College London LSE Oxford UCL Warwick

From experience we can see that most of the students who are subsequently offered a place on a competitive course are those who have achieved seven or more A* grades at GCSE. In a few cases a minimum number of A* grades at GCSE is a stated requirement for selection and the university publishes this information on its website. Most universities, however, do not publish such information and look at the whole application including predicted A Level grades, personal statement, the Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reference, and Admissions Tests, if sat. Nonetheless, when faced with a large number of very strong applicants for just a few places, strong A* performance at GCSE inevitably becomes compelling evidence of all-round sustained ability. January 2019 Page | 9

Advanced Level subjects required for university courses Note: Subject requirements differ. Where an A Level subject is stated to be ‘required’ it means that over 75% of university courses currently list this subject as a requirement for entry. It is important to realise that if a university says, “Subject X is recommended/preferable” it really means, “if your school offers Subject X, you must take it and offer it at application”. If you do not offer to A Level the Subject X taught at Habs you are making a weak application. Universities have to make general statements in their requirements as not all applicants have the same opportunities. Always contact Admissions Tutors yourself if you are unsure. The University Admissions Department has made every effort to ensure that the information given in this table is correct at the time of printing. However, universities often change or make additions to entry requirements. It is advised that you check on university websites and carry out your own research regarding entry requirements for the course(s) you are interested in studying post A Level. What is very important is that you achieve a combination of relevant subjects at A Level. For example, a student applying to UCL for Medicine offering Biology, Chemistry, French and Maths would be highly regarded but a student applying to study French with the same combination of subjects would have been ill advised. For subject specific information provided by the University Applications Department please refer to the documents to be found by your son on HabsNet, under the Pupils tab followed by A Level options.

January 2019 Page | 10

University Course

Advanced Level Subjects Required

Notes

Accountancy, Finance, Business and Management

Mathematics and Economics are certainly advantageous, Mathematics required for top universities.

Agriculture

Two of Chemistry, Physics or Biology.

Interested candidates should refer to www.ucas.com/courses, since requirements vary considerably. Biology preferred.

Architecture

Mathematics usually specified, plus one additional Science (Physics usually preferred). A Level Art is recommended as a portfolio of work is required for interview.

Art & Design Foundation A one-year predegree course

Employment in the UK creative industries is growing at around four times the rate of the UK workforce. UK creative industries generate around ÂŁ87.4bn a year to the UK economy. There are an extensive range of courses available across a multitude of universities.

This is a general Art course which will enable the student to make an informed decision regarding the specific type of Art and Design degreed on offer. Degrees

A portfolio of drawings and sketches must be developed, and is required for interview.

Art & Design

Art e.g. Fine Art, Sculpture, Photography

It is very important to research and compare courses carefully as well as thoroughly checking entry requirements. It is recommended that you visit end of year degrees shows to help you in your decision. A portfolio of A Level standard and breadth is required for interview. Universities may also require students to have completed an Art & Design Foundation Course or to have an equivalent level portfolio.

Design e.g. Graphic, Industrial, Product, Art & Design Usually a multidisciplinary course within which students can elect to combine and study a broad range of modules across Art & Design.

Applications for Foundation Courses are usually made directly through the college, not through UCAS, and the deadline is commonly the 31st January.

Biochemistry

Chemistry and two subjects from Biology, Physics or Mathematics.

Biological Sciences (Anatomy, Bacteriology, Botany, Physiology, Zoology)

Biology and Chemistry.

Chemistry

Chemistry and Mathematics to at least AS Level; A Level for Oxbridge and top universities. January 2019 Page | 11

University Course

Advanced Level Subjects Required

Notes

Classics

Latin is preferred for top universities.

No prior knowledge of Greek is expected.

Computer Science Dentistry Drama

Mathematics required by all but a few universities and Physics is sometimes advantageous. Chemistry and Biology A Level are both required. English may be required for top universities.

Economics

Mathematics and Economics are certainly advantageous; Mathematics essential for the top universities.

Economics & Management

Mathematics and Economics are certainly advantageous; Mathematics essential for the top universities.

Engineering: Aero, Mechanical

Physics, Mathematics.

Engineering: Chemical

Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics.

Engineering: Civil

Physics, Mathematics.

Engineering: Electrical

Physics, Mathematics.

Engineering: Electronic English Literature English Language Geography (BA)

Geography (BSc)

Physics, Mathematics.

Further Mathematics is preferred by top universities.

English requested for combined courses with English. Further Mathematics highly recommended for LSE and Oxbridge for certain top universities and Oxbridge colleges. Further Mathematics highly recommended for LSE and Oxbridge for certain top universities and Oxbridge colleges. Many Engineering courses are now open to those without Science/Mathematics qualifications, but such courses are longer and may require an additional foundation year. Further Mathematics recommended for top universities. Further Mathematics strongly advised for Oxbridge and other top universities. Further Mathematics strongly advised for Oxbridge and other top universities. Candidates must check course requirements of individual institutions on www.ucas.com courses Further Mathematics recommended for top universities. Further Mathematics strongly recommended for top universities.

English Literature required. Check university websites. Some want to see A Level English Language Geography required. Geography and one Science; or Geography and two Sciences, or Geography, Mathematics and one Science.

Some universities increasingly prefer a Science background for their BSc Geography course. Refer to www.ucas.com courses for requirements.

January 2019 Page | 12

University Course

Advanced Level Subjects Required

Notes

Earth Science, Geology, Mineral Science, Mining Engineering

Two Sciences and/or Mathematics.

Chemistry and Mathematics recommended for top universities.

History

History required.

HSPS

Different Colleges have different selection preferences, therefore you should check the individual College websites.

Land Economy

N/A

Law

Mathematics

Medicine, Dentistry

None specified though essay based subjects, which develop a careful, analytical approach to reading and which require students to present information in a well-structured and thoughtfully argued way are advantageous for any Russell group university and Oxbridge. Mathematics required. Further Mathematics required for Oxbridge, and frequently preferred for other top universities. Chemistry required to A Level. Biology usually required to at least AS Level. (Some medical and dental schools actively seek a broader academic base with one non- Science subject to at least AS Level).

Metallurgy, Materials Sciences Modern Languages:

Mathematics and at least one of Chemistry or Physics for top universities.

French

German

Spanish

Music

Natural Sciences

Music

Any two Sciences, plus Mathematics.

Economics, Geography and Mathematics are useful subjects Degree courses in Law with a Language, European Law, or English Law with French/German/Spanish Law, require the language at A Level.

Mathematics and Physics often acceptable. Consult the detailed advice sheet offered, which includes the current situation regarding Oxford and Cambridge, and the possible requirement for GCSE Physics. Experience of both the profession and working with people is essential.

Degree courses are available in single languages, but more often as joint honours or in combination with other disciplines. Less common languages may be started ab initio (from scratch). A high level of proficiency in at least one instrument is required, many also expect high-level piano skills. Please speak to a member of the department for the requirements of individual institutions. Oxbridge prefer Further Mathematics. Candidates should January 2019 Page | 13

University Course

Advanced Level Subjects Required

Notes consult university websites to confirm.

Optometry Pharmacology

Philosophy

Physics

Two from: Chemistry, Biology, Physics or Mathematics. Chemistry and two from: Physics, Mathematics or Biology.

None specified.

Physics and Mathematics.

Physiotherapy

One Science (Biology preferred).

Politics/Social Studies/ Sociology

None specified.

Politics, Philosophy and Economics

None specified.

You may apply for Philosophy having done any combination of subjects at School but in order to demonstrate that you have the required skills of writing analytically and abstract reasoning a humanities subject such as English Literature, History, Theology or a MFL along with Mathematics or Physics may be advantageous. It is not necessary to have studied Philosophy but it would help you to demonstrate an interest and develop the tools needed for the required independent reading. Further Mathematics at AS Level or A Level is an advantage. One further Science often preferred. Politics, History, Philosophy, Economics, English Literature or Theology may be useful. You may apply for PPE with any combination of A Level subjects, but competitive applicants should be strong at Mathematics. It is not necessary to have studied Politics, Philosophy or Economics at School; but taking at least one of these subjects with English Literature, Geography, History Theology or any ancient and modern language, would help you to develop and demonstrate relevant skills, knowledge and understanding. You are strongly advised to access the university website course requirements. Oxford requires that applicants sit the Thinking Skills Assessment (TSA).

January 2019 Page | 14

University Course

Advanced Level Subjects Required

Psychology

Mathematics and one Science an advantage or a requirement at a top university.

Religious Studies/ Theology

Although Theology may not be a requirement, it is in a studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interest to be able to demonstrate an enjoyment of the subject to A Level standard.

Sports Science

None specified.

Veterinary Science

Chemistry, Biology Mathematics/Physics.

Notes Available as BA or BSc. Many universities prefer one Science (Biology or Chemistry) and/or Mathematics to at least AS Level. Candidates must check requirements of individual institutions at www.ucas.com/courses. If students decide to study Theology without having studied the subject to A Level, this should not be detrimental to a successful application. For Oxbridge and applications to other top universities, evidence of an interest in language study is important. One Science often preferred (usually Biology). Experience of working with animals essential.

January 2019 Page | 15

Provisional list of available A Level Subjects 2019/2020 Provisional Advanced Level Courses – dependent on student uptake. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27. 28.

Arabic Art and Design Biology Chemistry Classics: Latin Classics: Greek Computer Science Design Engineering Economics English Language English Literature French Geography German History Mathematics (A2 Mathematics) Accelerated Mathematics (A2 Mathematics + AS Further Mathematics) Further Mathematics (A2 Mathematics + A2 Further Mathematics) – counts as two choices. Music Philosophy Psychology (may possibly be co-taught with the Girls’ School depending on up-take) Physics Politics Russian Spanish Sports Science Theatre Studies Theology

January 2019 Page | 16

Notes 1) We cannot guarantee that all subject combinations will be possible but will do our best to support students in their choices. 2)

Courses will only run if a sufficient of students choose the subject. A minimum of 5 pupils at L6th level is required for a course to be offered. Any subject which does not attract 5 pupils may be withdrawn. If a course has to be cancelled owing to insufficient numbers, those involved will be informed and asked to make an alternative selection.

Choices are made in February to enable the staffing to be secured and the School timetable to be constructed. Whilst we will always try to accommodate subsequent requests for a change of subject, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to do so. In particular, we will not allow set sizes to increase beyond a reasonable size.

January 2019 Page | 17

Arabic â&#x20AC;&#x201C; L6th Year Examination Board Specification No.

EDEXCEL 9AA0

AS Levels or L6th Examinations This subject will not enter candidates for the AS examinations at the end of the L6. Pupils who do not carry on studying the subject in the U6 will not gain an AS qualification in this subject. All pupils will sit a rigorous internal examination at the end of the L6. All L6th material is examined at the end of the

U6th within the A Level examination. Pre-requisites There are no pre-requisites beyond having studied the language to IGCSE Level; however, pupils with B grade or below at IGCSE will find the step-up to A Level particularly difficult.

What is Arabic? The study of Arabic in the Sixth Form is a portal into a new world: building on the foundations established during the IGCSE course, you will become an increasingly fluent communicator both orally and on paper as well as a specialist on the culture of the Arab speaking world. You will develop the ability to summarise, narrate, analyse and express opinions in Arabic across a range of topics, from current affairs to cinema, from social issues to youth culture.

What sort of pupil does Arabic suit? The study of Arabic in the Sixth Form suits those who enjoy communicating as well as those who enjoy the close study of how language works. An interest in other cultures is important, as is a keen eye for detail.

Approach to L6th study Discussion and group work; independent study; analysis of literary texts / films.

Key Skills developed at L6th Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 18

Arabic â&#x20AC;&#x201C; U6th Year Pre-requisites A minimum L6th grade of a B is required to continue with the study of A Level Arabic.

A Level Specification All L6th material is re-examined at the end of the U6th within the A Level examination. Module

Title

Content

Assessment Weighting

Paper 1

Translation into English, reading comprehensi on, and writing (research question) in Arabic. Translation into Arabic and written response to film/text.

Topics: Society past and present, political and artistic culture of the Arabic-speaking world

Written examination: 2 hrs 30 mins Translation into English (20 marks) Reading (20 marks) Writing (research question) (40 marks)

Listening, Reading and Writing in Arabic.

Topics as above

Paper 2

Paper 3

Family; Digital world; Youth culture; Festivals and traditions; Art and architecture; Cultural life in Berlin As above

Weighting

40%

Written examination: 2 hrs 40 mins

One set film or text Translation into Arabic (20 marks) Essay on the set film/text (45 marks)

30%

Written examination: 2 hr 15 mins Listening comprehension (30 marks)

30%

Listening, reading and writing question (30 marks)

Degree Possibilities Modern Languages (normally two, but one of these can be ab initio, i.e. you can combine one language you have studied to A Level with one you have never done). Linguistics. Oriental / Asian languages. A combined degree featuring one language and one subject from another discipline.

Approach to A Level study Discussion and group work; independent study; analysis of literary texts / films.

Key Skills developed at A Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 19

Art & Design: Fine Art – L6th Year Examination Board Specification No.

EDEXCEL 9FA0

Pre-requisites B-A* at GCSE Level Art or an equivalent portfolio (Assessed using the GCSE grid).

What is Art & Design: Fine Art? An opportunity to “think differently” and acquire the following skills which are highly attractive to universities and employers across all sectors. • Intellectual, imaginative, creative and intuitive capabilities • Lateral thinking, resourcefulness, problem solving, ability to be reflective and make decisions • Self-motivation, resilience, self-management, enthusiasm designing and presenting • The ability to record observations and insights in visual and written form using a range of media • Investigative, analytical, experimental, practical, technical and expressive skills, aesthetic understanding and critical judgement • Independence of mind in developing, refining and communicating their own ideas, their own intentions and their own personal outcomes • Knowledge and experience of real-world contexts and, where appropriate, links to the creative industries • Knowledge and understanding of interrelationships between art, craft, design, media and technologies in contemporary and past societies and cultures • An awareness of different roles, functions, audiences and consumers of art, craft and design.

What sort of pupil does Art and Design suit? You will need to be: creative, organised, independent, self-motivated and work well as part of team.

L6th Specification Module Title

Content

Assessment

Weighting

Unit 1

Several outcomes (e.g. large paintings or sculptures) accompanied by an extensive range of supporting studies and sketchbooks recording development.

Full project, evidencebased assessment using the A Level assessment grid.

Contributes to 48%

Personal Investigation

Approach to L6th study Pupils will need to work highly independently and respond proactively to constructive criticism.

Key Skills developed at L6th Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 20

Art & Design: Fine Art â&#x20AC;&#x201C; U6th Year Pre-requisites A minimum L6th grade of C is required to continue with the study of A Level Art.

A Level Specification All L6th material contributes to and is re-examined with the final portfolio for the Personal Investigation. Module Title

Content

Assessment

Unit 1

Personal Investigation

Several outcomes (e.g. large paintings or sculptures) accompanied by an extensive range of supporting studies and sketchbooks recording development.

Personal Study

An essay of around 3000 words, supporting the Personal Investigation, accompanied by a sketchbook recording development.

Externally set assignment

In February U6th pupils undertake a new personal investigation inspired by a theme set by the exam board. Over an 8-week period, pupils produce a range of supporting studies and sketchbooks which inform their outcome. (A 15-hour timed piece created under exam conditions).

Full project, evidence-based assessment using the A Level assessment grid. Full project, evidence-based assessment using the A Level assessment grid. Full project, evidence-based assessment using the A Level assessment grid.

Unit 2

Weighting 48%

12%

40%

Degree Possibilities Popular areas of study are Architecture, Graphic Communication, Digital Design, Film & Media, Industrial Design, Product Design, Illustration, Animation and of course Fine Art. In addition, Art & Design may be studied as a combined degree with History, Classics or English, e.g. History of Art, Critical Writing in Art & Design, Classical Studies and History of Art. A degree in Art, Design or Architecture is often preceded by a 1-year Art Foundation Course. This is a general Art course which will enable the pupil to make an informed decision regarding the specific type of Art and Design courses on offer. (Applications for Foundation Courses are usually made directly through the college, not through UCAS, and the deadline is commonly the 31st January)

Approach to A Level study Pupils will need to work highly independently and respond proactively to constructive criticism. In addition to their lessons, boys will be expected to attend a variety of workshops including but not limited to life drawing; plan and take photoshoots; visit a range of exhibitions; take interest in Art & Design related current affairs and undertake extensive wider reading.

Key Skills developed at A Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 21

Biology â&#x20AC;&#x201C; L6th Year Examination Board Specification No.

OCR HO20

Pre-requisites This course builds on the knowledge, understanding and skills acquired in IGCSE Biology. A good pass (A*/A) at IGCSE is a pre-requisite.

What is Biology? Biology is a natural science concerned with the study of life and encompasses everything from the molecular biology of a cell to an appreciation of the ecosystems of the world. Biology has been called the Science of the 21st Century and as such is never far from the headlines. Our progress in understanding the biochemistry of life has led to the development of new treatments for many diseases. Recent breakthroughs in the field include the sequencing and mapping of the human genome, and now there is the tantalising prospect of using the newly discovered CRISPR technology to edit our DNA, effectively paving the way for the treatment of diseases that have thus far evaded us. Developments in Biology have also led to fascinating insights into what it actually means to be human, including the deeply complex workings of the mind and how we evolved. This course will give you an insight into the exciting and contemporary world of Biology, including the study of biochemistry, genetics, physiology, molecular biology, evolution, ecology and medical research. As a Science, it requires practical experimentation to test and refine theories and increasingly Biologists use mathematical modelling and computing. These will all be incorporated into the course.

What sort of pupil does Biology suit? Students should have intellectual curiosity and a logical mind.

Paper Paper 1

Paper 2

AS level Biology A Assessment overview Marks Breadth in Biology 70 Section A Multiple choice 20 Section B Structured 50 questions covering theory and practical skills Depth in Biology 70 Structured questions and extended 70 response questions, covering theory and practical skills

Duration 1 hr 30 min

Weighting 50%

1 hr 30 min

50%

Key Skills developed at L6th Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 22

Biology â&#x20AC;&#x201C; U6th Year Pre-requisites A minimum L6th grade of C is required to continue with the study of A Level Biology.

A Level Specification All L6th material is re-examined at the end of the U6th within the A Level examination. Biology A ASSESSMENT OVERVIEW Paper Marks Biological processes 100

Paper 1

Section A Section B

Paper 2

Multiple choice Structured questions and extended response questions covering theory and practical skills

Biological diversity Section A Section B

Paper 3

Multiple choice Structured questions and extended response questions covering theory and practical skills

Unified biology Structured questions and extended response questions covering theory and practical skills

Non-exam assessment

Practical endorsement for biology Candidates complete 12 practical activities to demonstrate practical competence.

Duration 2 hr 15 min

Weighting 37%

2 hr 15 min

37%

70 70

1 hr 30 min

26%

Pass/Fail

Non-exam assessment

15 85

100

15 85

Degree Possibilities Biology is directly appropriate for any biological or health-related degree, including Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science and Psychology. The transferrable skills you learn in A Level Biology mean it is also favoured for entry to a large range of other university courses including accounting, law and the arts.

Approach to A Level study Pupils are encouraged to take more responsibility for their learning, both in the preparation and consolidation of notes and by independently reading around the subject. Practical skills are taught throughout the course, and assessed on a regular basis. We also offer a series of opportunities for enrichment including the Biology Society, the Biology Book Group and the prospect to mentor younger students in the school.

Key Skills developed at A Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 23

Chemistry â&#x20AC;&#x201C; L6th Year Examination Board Specification No.

EDEXCEL 8CHO

Pre-requisites A Level Chemistry is recognised to be a very demanding course within the Habs community. A thorough understanding of the IGCSE Chemistry course is essential for any Advanced Level candidate. Although the school allows boys to study A Level Chemistry with an A grade or grade 7 at IGCSE, it needs to be recognised that if you have found the IGCSE material difficult you will struggle with the A level course.

What is Chemistry? Apart from being an intellectually satisfying subject which provides an excellent grounding to be able to explain the world around you, Chemistry occupies a central place among the scientific disciplines. It is concerned with events on a molecular level but at the same time forms the basis of a multi-billion-pound industry that operates on a huge scale. Chemistry remains at the forefront of scientific innovation with the development of new drugs to control and combat disease, the discovery of new materials and the provision of solutions to major challenges facing the world today.

What sort of pupil does Chemistry suit? Students should have intellectual curiosity and a logical mind. The new course placed more emphasis on understanding experimental work, hence, a willingness to develop rigour in their thinking in vital.

Module

Content

Assessment

Paper 1

Atomic Structure and the Periodic Table, Bonding and Structure, Redox I

Both exams have the same format: 90mins, 80marks

50%

8CH01/01 Core Inorganic and Physical Chemistry

Inorganic group chemistry and the periodic table, equations and amounts of substances.

8CH01/02

Topics 1-5 Organic Chemistry - Hydrocarbons: alkanes and alkenes, alcohols and halogenoalkanes including mechanisms.

Core Organic and Physical Chemistry

Modern analytical techniques, Kinetics, Equilibrium, Energetic

Paper 2

The paper may include multi-choice, short open, open-response, calculations and extended writing questions.

50%

Some questions will assess conceptual and theoretical understanding of experimental methods.

Topic 2, and Topics 5-10

Key Skills developed at L6th Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 24

Chemistry – U6th Year Pre-requisites A minimum L6th grade of a C is required to continue with the study of A Level Chemistry.

A Level Specification All L6th material is re-examined at the end of the U6th within the A Level examination. Module

Content

Paper 1 9CH0/01

Same content as AS Paper 1

Advanced Inorganic and Physical Chemistry

+ Further Equilibrium, energetics and redox chemistry, Acid-base equilibria and transition metals. Topic 1-5, 8, 10-15

Paper 2

Same content as AS Paper 2

9CH0/02

+ Further kinetics, organic chemistry (Arenes, Amines and Amides, Proteins, Polymers, and Organic Synthesis), n.m.r. spectroscopy

Advanced Organic and Physical Chemistry Paper 3 9CH0/03 General and Practical Principles in Chemistry Science Practical Endorsement

Weight A level

Assessment

Topics 2,3,5-7, 9 & 16-19 The whole course.

Paper 1 & 2 have the same format.

30%

1hr 45min exams, 90marks All three papers may include multi-choice, short open, openresponse, calculations and extended writing questions. 2hr 30min exam, 120marks

30%

40%

Questions may be drawn from any part of the specification. The paper will include synoptic questions which may draw upon two or more different topics.

In addition to the normal questions, some questions will assess Questions based on experimental methods will draw on conceptual and students’ experiences of the core practicals. theoretical understanding of experimental methods. In addition to the three examination papers, an assessment of laboratory skills takes place during the two-year course leading to a ‘pass’ or ‘fail’ for these skills. This assessment, which appears on your certificate, does not affect you’re a level grade. An ‘A* fail’ is possible!

Degree Possibilities In addition to Pure Chemistry and Biochemistry, Chemistry may be studied as a combined degree with a large number of other scientific and non-scientific subjects, for example Chemistry with Business Studies, and Chemistry with German. Other possibilities likely to be of interest to the Chemistry pupil include Geology, Material Science and a wide range of engineering courses. Chemistry is an important supporting subject for the Biological Sciences and Chemistry at Advanced Level (either AS or A Level) is required for Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary Science. However, for medicine etc., a realistic assessment as to whether an A grade at A level is achievable should be an important consideration in your embarking on such a route.

Key Skills developed at A Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 25

Computer Science – L6th Year AS Levels or L6th Examinations This subject will not enter candidates for the AS examinations at the end of the L6. Pupils who do not carry on studying the subject in the U6 will not gain an AS qualification in this subject. All pupils will sit a rigorous school examination at the end of the L6, which has been externally verified.

Pre-requisites This course builds on, but does not depend upon, the knowledge, understanding and skills specified for GCSE Computer Science. No prior knowledge of ICT or Computing is necessary. However, pupils should be able to demonstrate good written and verbal communication skills and have an appetite for using technology, especially programming.

What is Computing? Computer scientists are highly sought after in a range of fields from commerce to pure research. Although programming skills are a strong focus of computer science, equally important are the skills of the analyst. It is the combination of insightful problem solving, methodical planning and the thoughtful application of customised technical tools that produces top quality work. The course is very ‘hands on’ in nature. The aim is to teach the course using a project-based methodology, so students will take part in developing solution to problems that will bring together a range of topics from within the course. The supporting materials for the courses and our facilities make excellent use of latest technologies. The trips to and collaboration with Google, Dell, Microsoft, Intel, HP and Bletchley Park offer pupils an opportunity to understand potential career opportunities and real-life problems.

What sort of pupil does Computing suit? The study of Computer Science requires mathematical aptitude, but mostly an ability to organise and to think both creatively and logically. So, the subject would suit someone who enjoys solving problems and who can think analytically.

Title

Content

Assessment

Paper 1 - Theory Fundamentals

• Fundamentals of Computer Science including data representation, communication technologies, computer hardware and software and consequences of uses of computing

Paper 2 -Fundamental Problem-solving and Programming Skills

• The fundamentals of problem solving and representing a solution to a problem, including Algorithms, data types, programming basics and software development strategies.

End of year Mock Exam 1 hr 30 mins Examination Worth 50% of predicted grade End of year Mock Exam 2 hr Examination Worth 50% of predicted grade

Key Skills developed at L6th Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 26

Computer Science – U6th Year Examination Board Specification No.

CIE 9608

Pre-requisites A minimum L6th grade of a C is required, failing that, a remedial strategy will be discussed with parents.

A Level Specification All L6th material is re-examined at the end of the U6th within the A Level examination. Title

Content

Assessment

Paper 1 - Theory Fundamentals

• Fundamentals of Computer Science including data representation, communication technologies, computer hardware and software and consequences of uses of computing • The fundamentals of problem solving and representing a solution to a problem, including Algorithms, data types, programming basics and software development strategies. • Building upon Paper 1 topics with a more advanced focus, including representing real and negative numbers, protocols, Boolean Algebra and computer security • How to represent an algorithm as well as program a solution including modelling complex computer systems, the need for abstract data types and recursion, decision tables and different programming paradigms

Written Paper: 1 hr 30 mins Examination Worth 25% of A Level

Paper 2 Fundamental Problem-solving and Programming Skills Paper 3 - Advanced Theory Paper 4 - Further Problem Solving and Programming Skills

Written Paper: 2hr Examination Worth 25% of A Level Written Paper: 1 hr 30 mins Examination Worth 25% of A Level Written Paper: 2hr Examination Worth 25% of A Level

Degree Possibilities A Computer Science degree is both vocational and academic. It may be studied as a combined degree with a very specialised focus, such as Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence, or can be studied with a number of other subjects, such as a foreign language, Mathematics, or Business Studies.

Approach to A Level study Students will be expected to undertake projects which will bring together a variety of topics, so students should develop their problem solving and organisation skills throughout. Students will also be expected to develop an independent project from a topic of their choice within the course.

Key Skills developed at A Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 27

Design Engineering – L6th Year Examination Board Specification No.

OCR H404

Pre-requisites This course builds on, but does not depend upon, the knowledge, understanding and skills specified for GCSE Design and Technology.

What is Design Engineering? This A Level is focused towards engineered and electronic products and systems; the analysis of these in respect of function, operation, components and materials, in order to understand their application and uses in engineered products/systems that have commercial viability. The aim of the course is to provide an insight into a rapidly expanding subject that has enormous influence on many aspects of life in modern society and to stimulate enquiry into an absorbing area of Science and Technology. A practical application of physics and mathematical principles, Design Engineering can reinforce and stimulate understanding across a number of curriculum areas.

What sort of pupil does Design Engineering suit? Design Technology – Design Engineering suits pupils who enjoy designing and making realistic prototypes. An interest in the world of manufacture and how things work is strongly advised. The students in this course engage with the world of engineering, develop exceptional problem solving skills, creativity and critical thinking through the production of real-life working prototypes. An interest in making is a real advantage. Subject Title

Content

Assessment AS

01: Principles of Design Engineering

This paper covers the full scope of the theoretical elements of the course: • analyse existing products • demonstrate applied mathematical skills • apply their technical knowledge and understanding of materials, product functionality, manufacturing processes and techniques • demonstrate their understanding of design thinking and wider social, moral and environmental issues that impact on the design and manufacturing industries • demonstrate their ability to solve problems.

Written Paper: 1 hour 45 minutes 90 marks

02: Design Engineering: Product Development

Learners will be required to undertake a ‘product development’ in response to a given context that is open to their interpretation. Their ‘product development’ will be user-centred and will either deliver iterative improvements to an existing product or re-purpose a product for alternative use. Innovative approaches will be required, resulting in a final prototype that can be tested against the user and the market.

Coursework Unit Non-exam assessment

50%

Approx. 45 hours 90 marks

Key Skills developed at L6th Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 28

Design Engineering – U6th Year Pre-requisites A minimum L6th grade of a C is required to continue with the study of Design and Technology.

A Level Specification All L6th material is re-examined at the end of the U6th within the A Level examination. Subject Title

Content

Assessment

Written Paper: 1 hour 30 minutes 75 marks

25%

This paper predominantly covers technical principles. In this paper student, will be required to:

01: Principles of Design Engineering

• • •

analyse existing products demonstrate applied mathematical skills demonstrate their technical knowledge of materials, product functionality, manufacturing processes and techniques • demonstrate their understanding of wider social, moral and environmental issues that impact on the design and manufacturing industries. This component has two sections that respond to selected tasks. •

02: Unseen Challenge

•

03: Iterative Design Project

Section A focuses on students applying their knowledge, understanding and skills of designing and manufacturing prototypes and products. Section B requires students to reflect on their design task in Section A in relation to wider factors/issues from the design principles.

The ‘Iterative Design Project’ requires learners to undertake a substantial design, make and evaluate project centred on the iterative processes of explore, create and evaluate. Learners identify a design opportunity or problem from a context of their own choice, and create a portfolio of evidence in real time through the project to demonstrate their competence.

Design/Written Paper: 2 hours 30 minutes

25%

75 marks Design/Written Paper: Approx. 45 hours

50%

150 marks

Degree Possibilities Design Technology is both vocational and academic. In combination with mathematics and physics it can lead into courses in all Engineering specialisms, Product and Industrial Design as well as professions requiring precise manual dexterity such as Dentistry.

Approach to A Level study Coursework will involve a significant amount of individual, guided research covering original investigative areas as well as a practical outcome.

Key Skills developed at A Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 29

Economics – L6th Year Examination Board Specification No.

Pearson Edexcel 8EC0

Pre-requisites No prior knowledge of Economics is necessary. Pupils should be able to demonstrate good written and verbal communication skills and have solid skills of numeracy.

What is Economics? “The study of mankind in the ordinary business of life” – Alfred Marshall Economics is an exciting and creative subject. It is about gaining an understanding of the society in which we live and will enable students to develop a better understanding of current affairs. The main aim of the course is to get students to ‘think as economists’ and develop the analytical, questioning and quantitative skills economists use. The course explores how the market economy works as well as its limitations. Topics covered include demand, supply, costs and revenue (microeconomics) but also inflation, unemployment and economic growth (macroeconomics). The course will enable students to understand how models shed light on the economy as a whole.

What sort of pupil does Economics suit? The course encourages an enquiring, critical and thoughtful approach and would therefore attract inquisitive students who take an active interest in current affairs and enjoy thinking and writing. Economics students need to have an open mind and the ability to accept that there are many possible answers to any one question. Weighting AS A2

Module

Title

Content

Assessment

8EC0/01

Introduction to markets and market failure

Scarcity and choice and the basic economic problem. How competitive markets work. Market failure and government intervention.

1hr 30min Examination Includes a choice from two essay questions.

50%

N/A

8EC0/02

The UK economy – performance and policies

Economic policy objectives and indicators of macroeconomic performance. Aggregate demand and supply. Government policies.

1hr 30min Examination Includes a choice from two essay questions.

50%

N/A

Key Skills developed at L6th Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 30

Economics â&#x20AC;&#x201C; U6th Year Pre-requisites A minimum L6th grade of a C is required to continue with the study of A Level Economics.

A Level Specification All L6th material is re-examined at the end of the U6th within the A Level examination. Module

Title

Content

Assessment

Weighting AS A2

9EC0/01

Microeconomics

2hr written paper

N/A

35%

9EC0/02

Macroeconomics

Microeconomic theory. How competitive markets work. Competition and market power (the theory of the firm). Labour market. Market failures and government intervention. International Economics. Poverty and Inequality. The Financial Sector. The role of the state in the macroeconomy.

2hr written paper

N/A

35%

9EC03/03

Microeconomics and macroeconomics

Fully synoptic, combining micro and macro.

2hr written paper

N/A

30%

Degree Possibilities Many of our pupils go on to study Economics, Management or Finance at university. A traditional Economics degree is academic but there are an increasing number of multidisciplinary degrees on offer combining Economics with History, Geography, Mathematics and Foreign Languages and some offer the opportunity to spend one year abroad. When combined with Finance or Management, an Economics degree can also be more vocational. The department offers U6 Enhancement lessons and additional seminars for those wishing to make an application to Oxford or Cambridge.

Approach to A Level study There is a step change between AS and A Level study. Students are encouraged to read The Economist and a quality newspaper regularly. They are expected to study independently and to make active use of the tools and methods learnt at AS.

Key Skills developed at A Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 31

English Language â&#x20AC;&#x201C; L6th Year Examination Board Specification No.

AQA 7701

Pre-requisites A good GCSE English grade (A*-B). This course develops skills of close analysis of how language is used in real life. Pupils should be interested in how they themselves write and speak and should be keen to analyse everyday language use.

What is English Language? English Language at A-Level is very different to the study of English at GCSE Level, both in terms of content and the way in which it is taught and studied. While it retains elements of creative fiction and non-fiction writing, other areas of study are entirely new and take a more scientific approach to the study of spoken language and the structure of meaning. Lessons often take the form of lively debates around language issues, and are frequently led by pupils pursuing their own interests. Coursework sessions take place on a whole class basis and then move to one-to-one consultation and feedback sessions as work progresses.

What sort of pupil does English Language suit? Pupils who have an enthusiasm for original and creative writing will particularly enjoy honing their skills during the coursework module. A willingness to participate in class discussion is essential, as is an interest in why and how we adapt our language on a minute by minute basis to suit different contexts. Module Title

Content

Assessment

Weighting AS A2

Unit 1

Language and the individual

Analysis of two texts, linked by topic or theme, likely to include language and gender, power, technology, accent, dialect etc.

90-minute Examination

50%

40%

Unit 2

Language varieties

A discursive essay on a language topic and a directed writing task for a given purpose and audience.

90-minute Examination

50%

40%

Approach to L6th study There is a marked step up from IGCSE and a shift to seminar style discussions. Pupils will be expected to take more responsibility for their learning and to read widely around topic areas and linguistic research.

Key Skills developed at L6th Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 32

English Language â&#x20AC;&#x201C; U6th Year Pre-requisites A minimum L6th grade of a C is required to continue with the study of A Level English Language.

A Level Specification All L6th material is re-examined at the end of the U6th within the A Level examination. Weighting AS A2

Module

Title

Content

Assessment

Unit 1

Language, the individual and society

This unit builds on AS skills, with the additional topic of child language acquisition.

2hr 30min Examination

40%

Unit 2

Language diversity and change

This unit builds on AS skills, with the additional topic of language change over time.

2hr 30min Examination

40%

Unit 3

Language in action

Students produce a 2000-word language investigation into the topic of their choice and a 1500-word piece of original writing and commentary.

Coursework

20%

Degree Possibilities An advanced knowledge of English is appreciated by university teachers in all degree subjects in the humanities and social sciences. Most universities now offer a degree course in English Language and/or pure linguistics, should you wish to pursue the subject further.

Approach to A Level study Coursework will involve a significant amount of individual, guided research covering original investigative areas and the ability to produce publication quality creative writing for real-world audiences.

Key Skills developed at A Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 33

English Literature â&#x20AC;&#x201C; L6th Year Examination Board Specification No.

OCR HO72

Pre-requisites A good grade (A*/A) at English GCSE.

What is English Literature? The study of English Literature offers particular opportunities for the development of personal response and original thought. The course requires the detailed study of major writers, poets and playwrights, from the seventeenth century to the present day. English Literature at A Level is assessed through a combination of exams and coursework, with a variety of set texts being studied in each year of the course.

What sort of pupil does English Literature suit? Good written skills and an enthusiasm for reading are essential, as is the willingness to participate in class discussion of set texts. You will spend a significant amount of time reading set texts in detail and writing notes and essays and need to be prepared for sustained written work. Module Title

Content

Assessment

Weighting AS A2

Unit 1

Drama and Poetry pre1900

Analyses of a set Shakespeare play and a set poem or collection of poetry

90-minute Examination

50%

40%

Unit 2

Drama and Prose post1900

Analyses of set drama and prose texts.

90-minute Examination

50%

40%

Key Skills developed at L6th Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 34

English Literature â&#x20AC;&#x201C; U6th Year Pre-requisites A minimum L6th grade of a C is required to continue with the study of A Level English Literature.

A Level Specification All L6th material is re-examined at the end of the U6th within the A Level examination. Weighting A2

Module Title

Content

Assessment

Unit 1

Drama and Poetry pre1900

Analysis of Shakespeare, drama and poetry set texts written before 1900.

2 hours 30 minutes Examination

40%

Unit 2

Comparative and contextual study

Close reading, comparative and contextual essays on set texts.

2 hours 30 minutes Examination

40%

Unit 3

Literature post-1900

Close read and comparative coursework essays.

Coursework portfolio.

20%

Degree Possibilities An advanced knowledge of English is appreciated by university teachers in all degree subjects in the humanities and social sciences.

Approach to A Level study Coursework will involve a significant amount of independent reading and research.

Key Skills developed at A Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 35

French â&#x20AC;&#x201C; L6th Year Examination Board Specification No.

AQA 7651V

Pre-requisites There are no pre-requisites beyond having studied the language to IGCSE Level; however, pupils with B grade or below at IGCSE will find the step-up to AS particularly difficult.

What is French? The study of French in the Sixth Form is a portal into a new world: building on the foundations established during the IGCSE course, you will become an increasingly fluent communicator both orally and on paper as well as a specialist on the culture of French and Francophone countries. You will develop the ability to summarise, narrate, analyse and express opinions in French across a range of topics, from current affairs to cinema, from social issues to youth culture.

What sort of pupil does French suit? The study of French in the Sixth Form suits those who enjoy communicating as well as those who enjoy the close study of how language works. An interest in other cultures is important, as is a keen eye for detail. Module

Title

Content

Assessment Weighting

Paper 1

Listening, Reading and Writing

AS topics: Family; Digital world; Place of voluntary work; French heritage; Contemporary French music; Cinema.

Written examination: 1hr 45 mins

Writing

As above

Written examination: 1 hr 15 mins

One set film or text

Translation into French (15 marks) Essay on the set film/text (45 marks)

AS topics as above

Oral examination: 12-14 mins

Paper 2

Paper 3

Speaking

Weighting

Listening (35 marks) Reading (35 marks) Translation (10 marks)

40%

Discussion of two sub-themes based on a stimulus card for each

30%

Approach to L6th study Discussion and group work; independent study; analysis of literary texts / films.

Key Skills developed at L6th Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 36

French â&#x20AC;&#x201C; U6th Year Pre-requisites A minimum L6th grade of a B is required to continue with the study of A Level French.

A Level Specification All L6th material is re-examined at the end of the U6th within the A Level examination. Module

Title

Content

Assessment

Paper 1

Listening, Reading and Writing

A Level topics: Positive features of a diverse society; Life for the marginalised; The treatment of criminals; Teenagers, the right to vote and political commitment; Demonstrations and strikes; Politics and immigration. One new set text in addition to the set text / film from AS level

Written examination 2hrs 30mins

Paper 2

Writing

Weighting

Listening (60 marks) Reading (60 marks) Translation into English (20 marks) Translation into French (20 marks) Written examination: 2 hours Essay on the AS set film/text Essay on the A Level set text

Paper 3

Speaking

A Level topics as above

40%

30%

Oral examination: 21-23 mins Discussion of a sub-theme based on a stimulus card (25 marks) 30% Presentation and discussion of individual research project (35 marks)

Degree Possibilities Modern Languages (normally two, but one of these can be ab initio, i.e. you can combine one language you have studied to A Level with one you have never done). Linguistics Oriental / Asian languages A combined degree featuring one language and one subject from another discipline.

Approach to A Level study Discussion and group work; independent study; analysis of literary texts / films.

Key Skills developed at A Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 37

Geography – L6th Year Examination Board Specification No.

AQA 7037

AS Levels or L6th Examinations This subject will not enter candidates for the AS examinations at the end of the L6. Pupils who do not carry on studying the subject in the U6 will not gain an AS qualification in this subject. All pupils will sit a rigorous school examination at the end of the L6, which has been externally verified.

Pre-requisites None. A good grade (A*/A) in IGCSE Geography is preferred but not required. Good numeracy ability is an advantage.

What is Geography? Geography is the study of Earth’s landscapes, peoples, places and environments. In an increasingly interconnected and interdependent world of uncertainty, Geography is the subject of our times. Its inherently multidisciplinary approach, bridging the social sciences (human geography) with the natural sciences (physical geography), provides an ideal framework for synthesising different fields of knowledge from a spatial and temporal perspective within the context of places and regions. Our AS/A Level Geography course aims to build upon the IGCSE content but focus in-depth on topical geographical issues and twenty-first century challenges, whilst developing a range of transferable skills. Fieldwork is unique to Geography and is an integral part of the A Level course with variety of day and residential trips planned over the two years.

What sort of pupil does Geography suit? Someone who is curious about the world – its people, societies, economies, cultures and natural environments; who is keen to learn and develop a wide range of transferable skills; who is seeking a broad academic qualification with one of the lowest graduate unemployment rates.

Approach to L6th study There is a marked step up from IGCSE and a shift to seminar style discussions. Pupils will be expected to take more responsibility for their learning and be proactive in consolidating their notes and read around the topics covered.

Key Skills developed at L6th Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 38

Geography â&#x20AC;&#x201C; U6th Year Examination Board Specification No.

AQA 7037

Pre-requisites A minimum L6th grade of a C is required to continue with the study of A Level Geography. Most boys achieve an A or B grade.

A Level Specification All L6th material is re-examined at the end of the U6th within the A Level examination. Weighting A Level

Module Title

Content

Assessment

Unit 1

Physical Geography

Section A: Water and carbon cycles Section B: Coastal systems Section C: Hazards

2hr 30min Examination Mixture of short answer and longer answer questions.

40%

Unit 2

Human Geography

Section A: Global systems and governance Section B: Changing places Section C: Population and Environment

2hr 30min Examination Mixture of short answer and longer answer questions.

40%

Unit 3

Geographical investigation

Students complete an individual investigation which includes primary data collected in the field. It is based on a question or issue defined by the pupil relating to any part of the specification.

Non-examined coursework component. 4,000 word report. Marked internally then externally moderated.

20%

Degree Possibilities Many Geographers will choose to continue the subject at university, including entrance to high achieving Russell Group universities and Oxbridge. It can be studied either as a BA/MA (Arts based) or a BSc/MSc (Science based) degree. Graduate geographers acquire a wide range of transferable skills making the subject particularly popular with employers. In a world that increasingly values people who have the skills needed to work across the physical and social sciences, it is not surprising that geographers have enjoyed one of the lowest levels of postgraduate unemployment for many years. Pupils will find the subject has much to contribute to their interest in vocational subjects such as law, management, finance, environmental science, medicine or engineering. Other pupils will choose Geography as a strong complementary or contrasting subject for a broad range of academic degrees including economics, languages, history and science.

Approach to A Level study The format of study in the U6 is broadly similar to that in the L6, as are the opportunities for further engagement beyond the syllabus. However, the Geographical investigation coursework module encourages much greater intellectual independence through primary fieldwork research, data analysis and the ability to infer and draw conclusions.

Key Skills developed at A Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 39

German â&#x20AC;&#x201C; L6th Year Examination Board Specification No.

AQA 7661T

Pre-requisites There are no pre-requisites beyond having studied the language to IGCSE Level; however, pupils with B grade or below at IGCSE will find the step-up to A Level particularly difficult.

What is German? The study of German in the Sixth Form is a portal into a new world: building on the foundations established during the IGCSE course, you will become an increasingly fluent communicator both orally and on paper as well as a specialist on the culture of Germany (as well as Austria and Switzerland). You will develop the ability to summarise, narrate, analyse and express opinions in German across a range of topics, from current affairs to cinema, from social issues to youth culture.

What sort of pupil does German suit? The study of German in the Sixth Form suits those who enjoy communicating as well as those who enjoy the close study of how language works. An interest in other cultures is important, as is a keen eye for detail. Module

Title

Content

Assessment Weighting

Paper 1

Listening, Reading and Writing

AS topics: Family; Digital world; Youth culture; Festivals and traditions; Art and architecture; Cultural life in Berlin

Written examination: 1hr 45 mins

Writing

As above

Written examination: 1 hr 15 mins

One set film or text

Translation into German (15 marks) Essay on the set film/text (45 marks)

AS topics as above

Oral examination: 12-14 mins

Paper 2

Paper 3

Speaking

Weighting

Listening (35 marks) Reading (35 marks) Translation (10 marks)

40%

Discussion of two sub-themes based on a stimulus card for each

30%

Approach to L6th study Discussion and group work; independent study; analysis of literary texts/films.

Key Skills developed at L6th Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 40

German â&#x20AC;&#x201C; U6th Year Pre-requisites A minimum L6th grade of a B is required to continue with the study of A Level German.

A Level Specification All L6th material is re-examined at the end of the U6th within the A Level examination. Module

Title

Content

Assessment

Paper 1

Listening, Reading and Writing

A Level topics: Immigration; Integration; Racism; Germany and the EU; Politics and youth; German re-unification and its consequences

Written examination 2hrs 30mins

Writing

One new set text in addition to the set text/film from AS level.

Written examination: 2 hours

Paper 2

Weighting

Listening (60 marks) Reading (60 marks) Translation into English (20 marks) Translation into German (20 marks)

Essay on the AS set film/text Essay on the A Level set text

Paper 3

Speaking

A Level topics as above

40%

30%

Oral examination: 21-23 mins Discussion of a sub-theme based on a stimulus card (25 marks) 30% Presentation and discussion of individual research project (35 marks)

Degree Possibilities Modern Languages (normally two, but one of these can be ab initio, i.e. you can combine one language you have studied to A Level with one you have never done). Linguistics Oriental / Asian languages A combined degree featuring one language and one subject from another discipline.

Approach to A Level study Discussion and group work; independent study; analysis of literary texts/films.

Key Skills developed at A Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 41

History – L6th Year Examination Board Specification No.

AQA 7042

AS Levels or L6th Examinations This subject will not enter candidates for the AS examinations at the end of the L6. Pupils who do not carry on studying the subject in the U6 will not gain an AS qualification in this subject. All pupils will sit a rigorous school examination at the end of the L6, which has been externally verified.

Pre-requisites For those who have taken IGCSE History an A*/A is essential, but it is not necessary to have studied History before. A nature curiosity about the past and a willingness to learn more about it is vital for the study of A Level History.

What is History? History provides valuable experience in developing skills of analysis and critical evaluation of evidence. Above all, however, the study of human thought, experience and action is an engaging pursuit in itself. Our A Level History courses enable the development of transferable skills, but most importantly they are designed to encourage a genuine passion for the subject.

What sort of pupil does History suit? Through its emphases upon developed written argument and rigorous source analysis A Level History is both demanding and intellectually exciting. Successful historians can articulate their ideas in clear and fluent written English. They should be prepared to undertake scholarly reading to develop a detailed knowledge of the topics covered. Above all, A Level History is for you if you are really interested in the past and in seeking to understand people, events and varieties of human experience. Component Content

Assessment

Weighting

Unit 1: Breadth Study

Early Modern: Stuart Britain and the Crisis of Monarchy, 1603–1649 Late Modern: Industrialisation and the People: Britain, 1783-1832

Unit 2: Depth Study

Early Modern: The Reformation in Europe, c1500–1564 Late Modern: America: A Nation Divided, c1845–1861

Examination: Section A critical evaluation of the views of historians; Section B one essay from a choice of two 1 hr 45 mins Examination: Section A analysis and evaluation of primary source material; Section B one essay from a choice of two 1 hr 45 mins

50%

Approach to L6th study The seminar-format of L6th History lessons allows for a great deal of pupil participation; many lessons are timetabled in the History Library to encourage such discussion in a scholarly atmosphere. The allocation of sets and courses will be based on what other A-Level students choose together and where possible personal preference.

Key Skills developed at L6th Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 42

History – U6th Year Pre-requisites A minimum L6th grade of a C is required to continue with the study of A Level History.

A Level Specification All L6th material is re-examined at the end of the U6th within the A Level examination. Module

Content

Assessment

Weighting

Unit 1: Breadth Study

Early Modern: Stuart Britain and the Crisis of Monarchy, 1603–1703 Late Modern: Industrialisation and the People: Britain, 1783-1888

Unit 2: Depth Study

Early Modern: The Reformation in Europe, c1500–1564 Late Modern: America: A Nation Divided, c1845–1877

Unit 3: Historical Investigation

Early Modern: Rebellions in Tudor England, 1485-1603 Late Modern (World): American Civil Rights, 1877-1992

Examination: Section A evaluation of views of historians; Section B two essays from a choice of three 2hrs 30 mins Examination: Section A analysis and evaluation of primary source material; Section B two essays from a choice of three 2hrs 30 mins Coursework: One essay of between 3000 and 3500 words

40%

20%

Degree Possibilities A Level History is studied through reading, critical thinking, discussion and essay writing. A detailed and accurate knowledge of the subject is required and independent thought is prized in historians. That is why History is recognised as providing an excellent preparation for university and a wide range of careers. Formal guidance for university applicants begins in January of the Lower Sixth with a programme of weekly seminars and briefings. The Department runs extension classes in the Upper Sixth to prepare candidates for admission to Oxbridge History courses and supports and advises applicants to other universities. Every History UCAS applicant is also assigned a staff mentor to guide them through the process.

Approach to A Level study The format of study is broadly similar to that of the L6th year, as are the opportunities for further engagement beyond the syllabus. However, the coursework component (begun in the Lower Sixth and completed in the first term of the Upper Sixth) encourages much greater intellectual independence through research, teaches the ability to make connections across an entire century of history and helps develop the skill to synthesise diverse material.

Key Skills developed at A Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 43

Latin â&#x20AC;&#x201C; L6th Year Examination Board Specification No.

OCR H043

Pre-requisites There are no pre-requisites, but a good grade (A*/A) at GCSE is expected.

What is Latin? The main purposes of the Latin course are to develop competence and confidence in the language itself and an interest in, and enthusiasm for, the classical world and its literature. Latin is a multi-dimensional A Level which develops literary skills. As such, it promotes the kind of versatility and attention to detail that are valued so highly by employers. Module Title AS (HO39) Unit 1

Unit 2

Latin Language Latin Verse and Prose Literature

Content

Assessment

Weighting

Two translation passages (one taken from an unspecified prose author, the other from the current prescribed prose author). Two context questions, one on each of the two prescribed authors (i.e. one prose and one verse), each including subquestions and a 'mini-essay'.

Candidates required to translate the two passages of Latin prose into English, the second shorter and harder than the first. Candidates are required to write responses to stylistic and contentbased questions on the texts based on a stimulus passage.

50%

Approach to L6th study Pupils are expected to do some independent research into their literary topics so they can understand the literary and historical context of the texts they are studying. There will be a mixture of individual and group work and pupils will be expected to analyse the texts both in class and at home.

Key Skills developed at L6th Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 44

Latin – U6th Year Pre-requisites A minimum L6th grade of a C is required to continue with the study of A Level Latin.

A Level Specification All L6th material is re-examined at the end of the U6th within the A Level examination. Module Title A2 (H043)

Content

Assessment

Weighting

Two sections: One Unseen Prose Translation and One Unseen Verse Translation (including 5 marks for Scansion) Two sections from which candidates choose one: Section A is comprehension and grammar and Section B is a Latin Prose Composition

Candidates have 100 minutes to translate the two passages.

25%

Candidates have 75 minutes to translate a short passage of English into Latin prose, or to answer comprehension questions on a piece of Latin prose Candidates will choose the texts they have studied. They have 2 hours.

25%

Candidates will choose the texts they have studies. They have 2 hours.

25%

Unit 1

Unseen Translation

Unit 2

Prose Composition or Comprehension

Unit 3

Latin Verse

Three sections. Section A: questions on Group 1/3 text (same as AS). Section B: questions on Group 2/4 text, including a 15-mark essay and 5-mark translation. Section C: One 20-mark essay question on one of Group 2/4 texts.

Unit 4

Latin Prose

25%

Degree Possibilities Latin A Level facilitates access to a Classics degree at Oxbridge or another top university, at which stage new areas of study such as Philosophy and Philology are further optional avenues for exploration.

Approach to A Level study Learning of the literary set texts takes place through a combination of group analysis, independent preparation and study, paired presentations and lecture days. Language learning takes place through exploration and practice of unseen Latin translation passages and through the grammatical guidance of teachers. The course will be delivered by two teachers, each responsible for the study of a set text – one prose, one verse – with each sharing responsibility for language teaching

Key Skills developed at A Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 45

Mathematics – L6th Year AS Levels or L6th Examinations This subject will enter candidates for the AS examinations at the end of the L6. Pupils who do not carry on studying the subject in the U6 will gain an AS qualification in this subject.

Pre-requisites Grade 9 at IGCSE. It is preferred that students will have been in a higher IGCSE set.

What is Mathematics? Study of Mathematics provides an opportunity to develop logical thinking and to stretch your ability to solve problems. Although the actual syllabus is stimulating, the real reason for taking this subject is to sharpen your analytical skills. In the process of doing so you will encounter inspiring connections and patterns that you would never have thought possible, yet the formal structure and watertight meaning of the subject is never lost. Mathematics is a subject that you can engage with, rather than a subject that you observe from afar, and the possibilities for exploration and satisfaction are boundless.

OCR

Title

Content

Assessment

Weighting

Paper 1

Pure Mathematics and Statistics

1.5 hour written paper, 75 marks. A calculator paper consisting of about twelve compulsory questions.

1/2

Paper 2

Pure Mathematics and Mechanics

Coordinate geometry and graphs; Differentiation; Integration; Trigonometry; Polynomials; Discrete probability distributions; Scatter diagrams; Hypothesis tests; Data analysis Coordinate geometry and graphs; Functions; Trigonometry; Exponential functions; Vectors; Proof; Forces; Velocity-time graphs; Motion in two dimensions

1.5 hour written paper, 75 marks. A calculator paper consisting of about eleven compulsory questions.

1/2

Approach to L6th study Mathematics rewards a consistent approach where students solve problems as and when they arise. Reading of notes and last minute cramming usually results in a poor grade. Pupils will be expected to seek out problems for themselves, and to stretch themselves independently. Set work accounts for around half of the expected output for any student of Mathematics.

Reading List / Websites www.mathscareers.org.uk www.m-a.org.uk Yearning for the Impossible: The Surprising Truths of Mathematics – John Stillwell, AK Peters Press A Brief History of Infinity: The Quest to think the Unthinkable – Brian Clegg, Robinson Press How Mathematicians Think – William Byers, Princeton Press Mathematics for the Imagination – Peter M Higgins, Oxford University Press

Key Skills developed at AS Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 46

Mathematics – U6th Year Pre-requisites A minimum L6th grade of a C is expected to continue with the study of A Level Mathematics.

A Level Specification OCR

Title

Content

Assessment

Weighting

Paper 1

Pure Mathematics

2 hour written paper, 100 marks. Calculator paper of 14 questions.

1/3

Paper 2

Pure Mathematics and Statistics Pure Mathematics and Mechanics

2 hour written paper, 100 marks. Calculator paper of 14 questions. 2 hour written paper, 100 marks. Calculator paper of 14 questions.

1/3

Paper 3

Proof; Algebra and functions; Coordinate geometry in two dimensions; Sequences and series; Trigonometry; Exponentials and logarithms; Differentiation; Integration; Numerical methods; Vectors Pure Maths topics listed above, plus: Statistical sampling; Data Presentation and Interpretation; Probability; Statistical distributions; Hypothesis testing Pure Maths topics listed above, plus: Quantities and Units in Mechanics; Kinematics; Forces and Newton’s Laws; Moments

1/3

Degree Possibilities Mathematics is often taken as an intellectual discipline in its own right. However, Mathematics is often a prerequisite qualification for degrees in Science, Engineering, Computing and Economics. For most courses relating to these particular disciplines UCAS offers often specify particular requirements on your Mathematics grade. Mathematics degrees are often undertaken by those studying Further Mathematics.

Approach to A Level study Mathematics rewards a consistent approach where students solve problems as and when they arise. Reading of notes and last minute cramming usually results in a poor grade. Pupils will be expected to seek out problems for themselves, and to stretch themselves independently. Set work accounts for around half of the expected output for any student of Mathematics.

Reading List / Websites Archimedes: What did he do besides cry Eureka? – Stein – Mathematical Association of America The Music of the Primes – Marcus du Sautoy – 4thestate Prime Obsession – John Derbyshire – Plume Press The Divine Proportion – Huntley – Dover Press The Story of a Number – Eli Maor – Princeton Press Zero: Biography of a Dangerous Idea – Charles Seife – Souvenir Press

Key Skills developed at A Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 47

Further Mathematics â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Two Year Course Pre-requisites For this you must be one of the stronger Mathematicians in the School. Your ability will have taken you well above grade 9 in the IGCSE and you will have engaged in extension work as a matter of routine throughout your Mathematics lessons so far. You will also need to have a strong desire to explore Mathematics with a great deal of independence. Pupils must be in a set 1 at IGCSE and will have covered the FSMQ Additional Maths course prior to commencing the Further Maths course.

Specification We will be following the OCR A specification. The Further Mathematics options in addition to the compulsory Pure Core 1 and Pure Core 2 will be Statistics and Mechanics. Students will sit external AS Further Mathematics examinations as well as AS Mathematics examinations at the end of year 12. The Further Mathematics course leads to two separate A level qualifications. Additional year 13 examinations â&#x20AC;&#x201C; these are taken in addition to those shown in Single Mathematics OCR

Title

Content

Assessment

Y540

Pure Core 1

Proof; Complex numbers; Matrices; Further vectors; Further algebra; Series; Hyperbolic functions; Further calculus; Polar coordinates; Differential equations

1/4

Y541

Pure Core 2

Y542

Statistics

1 hour 30 mins written paper, 75 marks. A calculator paper consisting of about eleven compulsory questions. 1 hour 30 mins written paper, 75 marks. A calculator paper consisting of about eleven compulsory questions. 1 hour 30 mins written paper, 75 marks. A calculator paper consisting of about nine compulsory questions.

Y543

Mechanics

1 hour 30 mins written paper, 75 marks. A calculator paper consisting of about eight compulsory questions.

1/4

Permutations and combinations; Discrete random variables; Continuous random variables; Linear combinations of random variables; Hypothesis tests and Confidence intervals; Chi-squared tests; Non-parametric tests; Correlation; Linear regression Dimensional analysis; Work, Energy and Power; Impulse and Momentum; Centres of mass; Motion in a circle; Further dynamics and kinematics

Weighting

1/4

Degree Possibilities The Further Mathematics course is highly desirable for anyone wishing to apply to one of the top universities to study Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Engineering or Economics. For example, potential Cambridge Engineering pupils, and potential LSE or Cambridge Economists are at a definite disadvantage if they have not studied Further Mathematics in the Sixth Form.

Key Skills developed at A Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 48

Music – L6th Year Examination Board Specification No.

AQA L6 – internal based upon 7271, A-level – 7272

AS Levels or L6th Examinations This subject will not enter candidates for the AS examinations at the end of the L6. Pupils who do not carry on studying the subject in the U6 will not gain an AS qualification in this subject. All pupils will sit a rigorous school examination at the end of the L6, which has been externally verified.

Pre-requisites This course builds on the knowledge, understanding and skills specified for GCSE Music. Pupils should be able to demonstrate good performing skills and be of no less than a grade 5 standard on their chosen instrument, as well as enjoying composition and analysis.

What is Music? The course is not only suitable for pupils who intend to continue their musical studies at university or conservatoire, but also for those who wish to extend their understanding of music for its intrinsic value and interest or for the pleasure they derive from it. Universities value music immensely as a subject which requires both artistic and scientific skills, and therefore acts well as a foil to the subjects found in many other “traditional” combinations. Module

Title

Content

Assessment

Weighting

Component 1

Appraising Music

Performance

Component 3

Composition

Written Exam: 2 hours Includes listening and written questions using excerpts of music • Section A – 2 listening questions • Section B – 1 analytical question • Section C – 1 essay • Total performance must last a minimum of 8 minutes A recording of the performance must be provided including a score • Bach Chorale exercise of 12-16 bars, submitted in standard notation. • Free composition to last at least 4 minutes, submitted as notation and recording.

40%

Component 2

Study of two historical topics: • Western Classical Tradition 1650-1910 • One more from a list of five • Solo and/or ensemble performing as an instrumentalist or vocalist Study of compositional techniques: • Bach Chorale harmonisation • Free composition

30%

Approach to L6th study The course is a highly eclectic one, in which each lesson of the fortnight is likely to focus on a different aspect of the course. As such it requires a high level of pupil organisation as well as skills in a number of different disciplines. It also ensures however that every lesson should be new and fresh, with a huge amount of variety in aspects studied.

Key Skills developed at L6th Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 49

Music – U6th Year Pre-requisites A minimum L6th grade of a C is required to continue with the study of A Level Music.

A Level Specification All L6th material is re-examined at the end of the U6th within the A Level examination. Module

Title

Content

Assessment

Weighting

Component 1

Appraising Music

Study of three historical topics: • Western Classical Tradition 1650-1910 • Two more from a list of six

40%

Component 2

Performance

Component 3

Composition

Written Exam: 2 ½ hours Includes listening and written questions using excerpts of music • Section A – 3 listening questions • Section B – 2 analytical questions • Section C – 1 essay • Total performance must last a minimum of 12 minutes • A recording of the performance must be provided including a score • Bach Chorale exercise of 16-24 bars, submitted in standard notation. • Free composition to last at least 5 minutes, submitted as notation and recording.

•

Solo and/or ensemble performing as an instrumentalist or vocalist

Study of compositional techniques: • Bach Chorale harmonisation • Free composition

35%

25%

Degree Possibilities A Music degree is both vocational and academic, although the amount to which each is emphasised varies immensely between courses. It may also be studied as a combined degree with many other subjects, and is highly valued as a supporting subject for other degree courses.

Approach to A Level Study The approach to A Level study is similar to that of the AS course though there will be greater demands in terms of listening, analysis, composition and performance.

Key Skills developed at A Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 50

Philosophy – L6th Year Examination Board Specification No.

AQA AS – 7171 A LEVEL - 7172

Pre-requisites Philosophy is a self-standing A Level option which can be chosen regardless of the pupil’s previous GCSE options. Pupils need not have taken Theology and Philosophy at GCSE to excel in Philosophy at A Level.

What is Philosophy Philosophy has become a subject defined by its method and history. It continues to ask the question posed by Socrates in 399 B.C. “how should I live my life?” by considering what a human being is and how we are related cognitively and morally to each other and to the world. Philosophy formally puts a great demand on analytic clarity and logic. Students will be asked to set out their arguments in premises and conclusion, to evaluate arguments and to reflect on their evaluation.

What sort of pupil does Philosophy suit? A pupil of a reflective and critical nature who wants to assess and inquire further into many of our most basic underlying assumptions and values will flourish as a philosopher as long as he can formulate himself clearly and think logically. Students who are typically good at both Maths and English are highly successful. Module

Title

Content

Assessment

Section 1

Epistemology

What is knowledge? Perception as a source of knowledge. Reason as a source of knowledge. The Limits of knowledge

Section 1 and 2 form part of one 3 hour written exam. Total marks: 80 distributed over 10 questions

Section 2

Moral Philosophy

Normative ethical theories (utilitarianism, Kantian deontological ethics, Aristotelian virtue ethics) Applied ethics (ethical theories applied to stealing, simulated killings, eating animals and telling lies). Meta-ethics (moral realism and antirealism)

All questions are compulsory 100% of AS

Approach to L6th study Philosophy lessons often take the format of an undergraduate seminar where students are asked to come prepared to lessons by having read primary or secondary literature in advance to enable them to discuss the philosophical issues in a clear, concise and informed manner. There is a focus on student presentations and weekly written assignments.

Key Skills developed at L6th Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 51

Philosophy – U6th Year Pre-requisites A minimum L6th grade of a C is required to continue with the study of A Level Philosophy.

A Level Specification All L6th material is re-examined at the end of the U6th within the A Level examination. Module Section 3

Title

Content

Assessment

Metaphysics of God

The concept and nature of ‘God’

Paper 1: Sections 1 and 2 form part of one 3 hour written exam.

Arguments relating to the existence of God

Total marks: 100 distributed over 10 questions.

Religious language

50% of A-level Section 4

Metaphysics of Mind

What do we mean by ‘mind’? Dualists theories (substance and property dualism).

Paper 2: Sections 3 and 4 form part of one 3 hour written exam.

Physicalist theories (behaviourism, identity theory, eliminative materialism, and functionalism).

Total marks: 100 distributed over 10 questions. 50% of A-level

Degree Possibilities Philosophy is taught as a single honours degree and is competitive. Philosophy also forms a natural part of many subject combinations and universities offer a whole host of joint honours degrees with Philosophy as a component such as: Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE), Philosophy and Psychology, Philosophy and Physics, Philosophy and Mathematics, Philosophy with a MFL (French, Italian, or Spanish), Philosophy and Linguistics, Philosophy and Computer Science. Some universities also offer Law and Philosophy, English and Philosophy, and History and Philosophy.

Approach to A Level study The format of the classes is similar to AS although more emphasis will be put on primary literature and independent learning.

Key Skills developed at A Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 52

Physics â&#x20AC;&#x201C; L6th Year Examination Board Specification No.

AQA AS (7407) A-Level (7408)

AS Levels or L6th Examinations This subject will enter candidates for the AS examinations at the end of the L6. Pupils who do not carry on studying the subject in the U6 will gain an AS qualification in this subject. Pre-requisites A thorough understanding of the principles of IGCSE Physics and competence in Mathematics are essential to embark on the GCE course. Pupils who achieve less than an A* at IGCSE will find the demands of the course difficult to meet. It is undoubtedly an advantage to study Mathematics alongside Physics; essential if you are interested in Physical Science and Engineering degrees.

What is Physics? Sixth Form Physicists follow AQA GCE Physics, the specification provides a smooth transition from previous studies and develops interest and enthusiasm for the subject at a more sophisticated conceptual level, and it provides an appropriate pathway to university courses in Physics and other subjects in which Physics is a key component. The course allows a variety of starting points but Lower Sixth pupils will experience contrasting topics in the principles and applications of particle Physics, electricity, materials, mechanics and waves.

What sort of pupil does Physics suit? Pupils must have good mathematical skills and a genuine interest in Physics. This would be likely to include enjoyment of, and proficiency at, practical work and a willingness to read widely in order to broaden personal knowledge and understanding. Successful pupils at GCE possess good organisation skills, they are well motivated and able to work independently. Weighting AS A Level

Module

Title

Assessment

Paper 1

Measurement and their errors. Particles and radiation. Waves. Mechanics and materials. Electricity

1hr 30min Examination Written examination 70 marks of short and long answer questions split by topic. 1hr 30 min Examination Section A: 20 marks of short and long answer questions on practical skills and data analysis. Section B: 20 marks of short and long answer questions from across all areas of AS content. Section C: 30 multiple choice questions

Paper 2

50% 50%

Approach to L6th study Pupils are encouraged to take responsibility for their learning at GCE by preparing notes and organising their folders in preparation for unit tests that occur on a half termly basis. Practical skills are built upon to include a greater appreciation of the accuracy of measurement and awareness of good experimental technique.

Key Skills developed at L6th Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 53

Physics â&#x20AC;&#x201C; U6th Year Pre-requisites A minimum L6th grade of a C is required to continue with the study of A Level Physics.

A Level Specification All L6th material is re-examined at the end of the U6th within the A Level examination. Weighting AS A Level

Module

Content

Assessment

Paper 1

Re-examined AS content and Periodic motion.

Paper 2

Thermal physics. Fields and their consequences. Nuclear physics.

Paper 3

Practical skills and one topic from Astrophysics, Medical physics, Engineering physics, Turning points in physics, or Electronics

2 hr Examination Written examination; 60 marks of short and long answers and 25 multiple choice questions 2 hr Examination Written examination; 60 marks of short and long answers and 25 multiple choice questions. Knowledge of AS content is assumed. 2 hr Examination Section A: 45 marks of short and long answer questions on practical skills and data analysis. Section B: 35 marks of short and long answer questions on option topics

34%

32%

A separate endorsement of practical skills will be taken alongside the A level. This is assessed by teachers and based upon direct observation of pupilsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; competency in a range of skills not assessable in written exams.

Degree Possibilities BSc and MSci Physics degree courses. Also: Engineering, Natural Science and Architecture.

Approach to A Level study The approach is similar to that of the L6th year, with half termly unit testing requiring pupils to prepare and organise personal notes and folders. The option topic that a teaching set undertakes is at the discretion of the set teacher who will discuss these options at the beginning of the year with the set. The option topic is generally taught towards the end of the course. All pupils sit written mock examinations towards the end of the A Level course.

Key Skills developed at A Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 54

Politics – L6th Year Examination Board Specification No.

AQA 7152

AS Levels or L6th Examinations This subject will not enter candidates for the AS examinations at the end of the L6. Pupils who do not carry on studying the subject in the U6 will not gain an AS qualification in this subject. All pupils will sit a rigorous school examination at the end of the L6, which has been externally verified.

Pre-requisites No prior knowledge is necessary, though an interest in the current affairs and an awareness of UK history are undoubtedly useful.

What is Politics? Politics is the study of how power is and should be wielded. We look at the process of decision-making and how political power is executed. We anticipate studying the newly reformed AQA specification for the first time. AS Level Politics gives students a varied insight and an in-depth foundation in UK government and politics. The course is designed for those keen to develop critical awareness of contemporary politics in the United Kingdom, as well as a deeper understanding of the fundamental British values of the rule of law, parliamentary democracy and individual liberty. Pupils assess and debate current political issues while developing an appreciation of governmental systems and structures.

What sort of pupil does Politics suit? The important attributes for a student to possess are a curiosity about contemporary politics; a keen love of reading books, newspapers and blogs; the ability to think critically and a willingness to write essays. Politics is about debate. If you enjoy arguing, you’ll love studying Politics. It is highly regarded by employers in industries including politics, international organisations, the media, legal services, government, the judiciary and the civil service. Title

Content

Assessment

Government and politics of the UK

Questions that allow students to demonstrate their ability to: recall information, draw together information from different areas of the specification and apply their knowledge and understanding in practical and theoretical contexts. There are two broad areas of study in this specification: • the government of the UK: The nature and sources of the British Constitution, The structure and the role of Parliament, the Prime Minister and the Cabinet, The Judiciary, Devolution • the politics of the UK: Democracy and participation, Elections and referendum, political parties, pressure groups, the UK and the European Union.

Written exam: 3 hours

Weighting 100%

98 marks. A mixture of short answers, extract questions and essays.

Approach to L6th study We encourage independent learning through reading, research and note-taking. Many lessons will be debates and some will involve role play.

Key Skills developed at L6th Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 55

Politics â&#x20AC;&#x201C; U6th Year Pre-requisites A minimum L6th grade of a C is required to continue with the study of A Level Politics.

A Level Specification All L6th material is re-examined at the end of the U6th within the A Level examination. Title

Content

Assessment

Government & Politics of the UK

Democracy and participation, elections and referendums, political parties, pressure groups, the debate surrounding British membership of the EU and the impact of EU membership on UK politics, the nature and sources of the British Constitution, the structure and the role of Parliament, the Prime Minister and the Cabinet, the Judiciary, Devolution

2hr Examination

Government & Politics of the USA & Comparative Politics

The constitution of the USA, the US electoral process, US Congress, the Presidency and constraints on Presidential power, the Supreme Court, US political parties, US Pressure Groups, Civil Rights. Students will analyse key political, structural and cultural similarities and differences between the USA and UK and evaluate what best explains these similarities and differences. Liberalism: including the ideas of John Locke, John Stuart Mill, John Rawls, Mary Wollstonecraft and Betty Freidan. Conservatism: including the ideas of Thomas Hobbes, Edmund Burke, Michael Oakeshott, Ayn Rand and Robert Nozick. Socialism: including the ideas of Karl Marx, Friedrich Engels, Rosa Luxemburg, Beatrice Webb, Anthony Crosland and Anthony Giddens. Anarchism and Feminism: including the ideas of Peter Kropotkin, Mikhal Bakunin, Pierre-Joseph Proudhon, Simone de Beauvoir, Shelia Rowbotham and Kate Millett

2hr Examination

Political Ideas

Weighting 33.33%

A mixture of medium length explain and essay questions. 33.33%

A mixture of medium length explain and essay questions 2hr Examination

33.33%

A mixture of medium length explain and essay questions

Degree Possibilities The course is useful for those wishing to study Politics or International Relations at university. It can assist any Social Science or Humanities degree. A2 Politics students from previous years have gone to study HSPS at Cambridge, PPE at Oxford, History and Politics at Oxford, History at Oxford and Cambridge, International Relations at LSE and a number of other highly competitive degree courses.

Approach to A Level study A Level Politics gives students a varied insight and an in-depth foundation in UK and US government and politics and political ideas. Study will include note-taking, reading articles, producing presentations, writing essays and lots of discussion and argument in class. We will study recent events such as: the EU Referendum of 2016, the UK General Election of 2017, as well as the election of Donald Trump as President of the United States and the rise of populism. The study of political ideas will be a major part of the course, as we will examine the three main core ideologies in the UK tradition of Conservatism, Liberalism and Socialism, as well as the impact of Anarchism and Feminism.

Key Skills developed at A Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 56

Psychology This course is offered by the Girls’ School and may be co-taught. Boys can select this subject and will be advised if the course will go ahead should there be sufficient numbers and the timetable can be designed to fit. Examination Board Specification No.

AQA 7182

AS Levels or L6th Examinations Internally set exam will be taken early in the Summer Term of L6.

Pre-requisites Maths to a high level at GCSE.

What is Psychology? Psychology A Level allows students to investigate and understand key areas of human behaviour and the workings of the brain. They will learn about the wide variety of methods employed by psychologists and how to evaluate and analyse these methods. They will also be exposed to classic debates within the subject, such as the nature-nurture and gender debates. They will acquire skills to argue from many different perspectives.

What sort of pupil does Psychology suit? The course will suit students who study a range of other subjects.

A Level Specification Title

Content

Assessment

Weighting

Psychology

Paper 1 – Introductory topics in psychology Social influence, memory, attachment and psychopathology. Paper 2 – Psychology in context Approaches in psychology, biopsychology, research methods Paper 3 – Issues and options in psychology Issues and debates in psychology Option 1: Relationships, gender or development Option 2: Schizophrenia, eating behaviour or stress Option 3: Aggression, forensic psychology or addiction.

Each Paper is a 2-hour written assessment

The 3 papers are equally weighted (1/3 each)

Degree Possibilities Psychology can be studied as a subject in its own right, but is also useful for other subjects such as law or social sciences.

Approach to A Level study The breadth of skills required for Psychology means that it can offer a compliment or contrast to subjects ranging from mathematics to geography. Psychology at University is studied as a science, and students will be required to understand how science works, use the scientific method and apply previously learned and new mathematical skills. The course is assessed via multiple choice, short-answer questions and extended essays. The ability to think critically and evaluate research is essential. Lesson activities are varied and involve a lot of opportunities for discussion and debate. Hands-on practical work is an essential part of the course.

Key Skills developed at A Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 57

Russian â&#x20AC;&#x201C; L6th Year Examination Board Specification No.

Edexcel 9RU0

Pre-requisites There are no pre-requisites beyond having studied the language to GCSE Level; however, pupils with B grade or below at GCSE will find the step-up to AS particularly difficult.

What is Russian? The study of Russian in the Sixth Form builds on the foundations established during the GCSE course. You will become an increasingly fluent communicator both orally and on paper as well as a specialist on the culture of Russia. You will develop the ability to summarise, narrate, analyse and express opinions in Russian across a range of topics, from current affairs to cinema, from social issues to youth culture.

What sort of pupil does Russian suit? The study of Russian in the Sixth Form suits those who enjoy communicating as well as those who enjoy the close study of how language works. An interest in other cultures is important, as is a keen eye for detail. Module

Title

Content

Assessment Weighting

Paper 1

Listening, Reading and Translation

AS topics: Development of Russian Society; Political and Artistic culture in the Russian-speaking world

Written examination: 1hr 45 mins

Writing and Translation

As above

Written examination: 1 hr 40 mins

One set film or text

Translation into Russian (20 marks) Essay on the set film/text (40 marks)

AS topics as above

Oral examination: 12-15 mins

Paper 2

Paper 3

Speaking

Weighting

Listening (24 marks) Reading (28 marks) Translation (12 marks)

40%

Discussion of both main topics based on a stimulus card for each

30%

Approach to L6th study Discussion and group work; independent study; analysis of literary texts / films.

Key Skills developed at L6th Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 58

Russian – U6th Year Pre-requisites A minimum L6th grade of a B is required to continue with the study of A Level Russian.

A Level Specification All L6th material is re-examined at the end of the U6th within the A Level examination. Module

Title

Content

Assessment Weighting

Paper 1

Listening, Reading and Translation

AL topics: Development of Russian Society; Political and Artistic culture in the Russianspeaking world; Moscow or Saint Petersburg – changes in life in a big Russian city; The final years of the USSR – M.S. Gorbachov (1985-1991) As above

Written examination: 2hrs

Paper 2

Writing and Translation

Weighting 40%

Listening (30 marks) Reading (30 marks) Translation (20 marks)

Written examination: 2 hrs 40 mins

30%

Two set films or texts Translation into Russian (20 marks) Two essays on the set films/texts (50 marks each)

Paper 3

Speaking

AL topics as above

Oral examination: 21-23 mins

30%

Discussion of a topic based on a stimulus card (30 marks) Independent Research Project (42 marks)

Degree Possibilities Modern Languages (normally two, but one of these can be ab initio, i.e. you can combine one language you have studied to A Level with one you have never done). Linguistics Oriental / Asian languages A combined degree featuring one language and one subject from another discipline.

Approach to A Level study Discussion and group work; independent study; analysis of literary texts / films.

Key Skills developed at A Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 59

Spanish â&#x20AC;&#x201C; L6th Year Examination Board Specification No.

AQA 7691

Pre-requisites There are no pre-requisites beyond having studied the language to IGCSE Level; however, pupils with B grade or below at IGCSE will find the step-up to AS particularly difficult.

What is Spanish? The study of Spanish in the Sixth Form is a portal into a new world: building on the foundations established during the IGCSE course, you will become an increasingly fluent communicator both orally and on paper as well as a specialist on the culture of Spain (as well as insights into South America). You will develop the ability to summarise, narrate, analyse and express opinions in Spanish across a range of topics, from current affairs to cinema, from social issues to youth culture.

What sort of pupil does Spanish suit? The study of Spanish in the Sixth Form suits those who enjoy communicating as well as those who enjoy the close study of how language works. An interest in other cultures is important, as is a keen eye for detail. Module

Title

Content

Assessment Weighting

Paper 1

Listening, Reading and Writing

AS topics: Modern and traditional values, cyberspace, equal rights, influence of idols, regional identity, cultural heritage.

Written examination: 1hr 45 mins

Writing

As above

Written examination: 1 hr 15 mins

One set film or text

Translation into Spanish (15 marks) Essay on the set film/text (45 marks)

AS topics as above

Oral examination: 12-14 mins

Paper 2

Paper 3

Speaking

Weighting

Listening (35 marks) Reading (35 marks) Translation (10 marks)

40%

Discussion of two sub-themes based on a stimulus card for each

30%

Approach to L6th study Discussion and group work; independent study; analysis of literary texts / films.

Key Skills developed at L6th Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 60

Spanish â&#x20AC;&#x201C; U6th Year Pre-requisites A minimum L6th grade of a B is required to continue with the study of A Level Spanish.

A Level Specification All L6th material is re-examined at the end of the U6th within the A Level examination. Module

Title

Content

Assessment

Paper 1

Listening, Reading and Writing

A Level topics: Immigration, racism, integration, young people, political regimes, social movements.

Written examination 2hrs 30mins

Writing

One new set text in addition to the set text/film from AS level.

Written examination: 2 hours

Paper 2

Weighting

Listening (60 marks) Reading (60 marks) Translation into English (20 marks) Translation into Spanish (20 marks)

Essay on the AS set film/text Essay on the A Level set text

Paper 3

Speaking

A Level topics as above

40%

30%

Oral examination: 21-23 mins Discussion of a sub-theme based on a stimulus card (25 marks) 30% Presentation and discussion of individual research project (35 marks)

Degree Possibilities Modern Languages (normally two, but one of these can be ab initio, i.e. you can combine one language you have studied to A Level with one you have never done). Linguistics Oriental / Asian languages A combined degree featuring one language and one subject from another discipline.

Approach to A Level study Discussion and group work; independent study; analysis of literary texts / films.

Key Skills developed at A Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 61

Sports Science â&#x20AC;&#x201C; L6th Year Examination Board Specification No.

OCR H155

Pre-requisites It is not necessary for candidates to have studied IGCSE Sports Science, although the content will build on the knowledge, understanding and skills studied at that level. Candidates should, however, be prepared to carry out some independent study and be able to analyse both their own and othersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; performances. It is naturally beneficial for candidates to be a strong performer in one practical sport.

What is Sports Science? The Sports Science course offers candidates an opportunity to study a wide variety of sport related topics. Pupils will study how applied exercise physiology, psychology and biomechanics can be used to optimise sporting performance. There are opportunities to be assessed practically as a performer, coach and/or official.

What sort of pupil does Sports Science suit? Pupils who have very strong practical abilities (county or high club standard as a minimum) in at least one sporting activity, will be suited to the practical assessment. Pupils should have an interest in discovering how sporting performance is affected by a range of internal and external factors. Weighting AS A2 35%

Module

Title

Content

Assessment

Unit 01

Physiological factors affecting performance

70 marks 1 hour 15 minute written paper

Unit 02

Psychological and socio-cultural themes in physical education

Applied anatomy and physiology Exercise physiology Biomechanics, including technology in sport Skill acquisition Sports psychology Sport and society

70 marks 1 hour 15 minute written paper

35%

Unit 03

Performance in physical education

Performance or Coaching Evaluation and Analysis of Performance for Improvement (EAPI)

60 marks Non-exam assessment (NEA)

30%

Key Skills developed at L6th Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 62

Sports Science â&#x20AC;&#x201C; U6th Year Examination Board Specification No.

OCR H555

Pre-requisites A minimum L6th grade of a C is required to continue with the study of A Level Sports Science.

U6th Specification All L6th material is re-examined at the end of the U6th within the A Level examination. Weighting AS A2

Module

Title

Content

Assessment

Unit 01

Physiological factors affecting performance

90 marks 2 hour written paper

30%

Unit 02

Psychological factors affecting performance Socio-cultural issues in physical activity and sport Performance in physical education

Applied anatomy and physiology Exercise physiology Biomechanics Skill acquisition Sports psychology Sport and society Contemporary issues in physical activity and sport Performance or Coaching Evaluation and Analysis of Performance for Improvement (EAPI)

60 marks 1 hour written paper 60 marks 1 hour written paper

20%

60 marks (weighted up to mark out of 90) Non-exam assessment (NEA)

30%

Unit 03 Unit 04

20%

Degree Possibilities The course outlined will provide excellent preparation for all degree courses related to sport. These may include Sport and Exercise Science, Sport Studies and Sports Technology. It is also relevant for Medicine, Physiotherapy, Psychology, Teaching and/or Coaching.

Approach to A Level study This will provide pupils with an opportunity to extend their knowledge and understanding acquired, and to apply scientific principles to crucially analyse their own sporting performance in comparison to an elite model performance.

Key Skills developed at A Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 63

Theatre Studies – L6th Year Examination Board Specification No.

AQA 7261

Pre-requisites The course builds on the knowledge, understanding and skills specified for GCSE Drama, but this qualification is not a pre-requisite. An ability to work creative and co-operatively is vital.

What are Theatre Studies? Theatre Studies offers a highly rewarding mixture of both the practical and the theoretical. It explores the opportunity for pupils to obtain a broad cultural awareness whilst developing a sophisticated critical discernment. Theatre Studies is a suitable companion to all Arts/Humanities A Levels. It also offers different element to those pupils intending to pursue Science or Mathematics combinations. It is complementary to English rather than a simple alternative, in that it requires a quite different mode of approach and analysis.

What sort of pupil does Theatre Studies suit? Students with experience, confidence and skill as a performer will be very suited to Theatre Studies but those with no prior experience have also achieved the highest grades. An open and imaginative mind along with a genuine interest in live performance is essential. A willingness to approach ideas creatively and solve problems imaginatively forms a fundamental part of the course.

AQA 7261

Title

Component 1

Interpreting Drama

Component 2

Process and Performance

(PRACTICAL COURSE WORK)

Content

Assessment

Weighting

Knowledge and understanding of drama and theatre Study of one set play representing Drama through the ages. Analysis and evaluation of the work of live theatre makers

1hr 45mins Examination Section A – One (two part) question on an extract from the set play chosen. Section B – One essay question in response to live theatre seen during the course.

80 marks

Practical exploration and theatrical interpretation of two extracts from different plays. The methodology of a prescribed practitioner must be applied to Extract 2 which is performed as a final assessed piece Portfolio evidencing interpretive process, development of ideas, analysis and evaluation of performance

Marked by teachers and externally moderated on DVD Practical Performance of Extract 2 Portfolio Section 1: Research Section 2: Performance development Section 3: Analysis and evaluation.

40% 50 marks 30 marks 60 marks

60%

30 marks 30 marks

Key Skills developed at L6th Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 64

Theatre Studies â&#x20AC;&#x201C; U6th Year Pre-requisites A minimum L6th grade of a C is required to continue with the study of A Level Theatre Studies.

U6th Specification Component Component 1 (WRITTEN EXAM)

Title Drama and Theatre

Content

Assessment

Knowledge & understanding of drama & theatre Study of two set plays: One chosen from List A (Drama through the ages) One chosen from List B (20th and 21st Century Drama)

Component 2 (PRACTICAL COURSEWORK)

Component 3 (PRACTICAL COURSEWORK)

Creating Original Drama (Practical)

Making Theatre (Practical)

Analysis and evaluation of the work of live theatre makers Candidates study two plays. The study of the process of devising drama and the study of a contemporary theatre practitioner. The creation of a piece of new theatre (in which students may contribute as performer, designer or director) which is influenced by the work and methodologies of the prescribed practitioner. Practical exploration and interpretation of three extracts, each taken from a different play.

Weighting

3hr Examination (Open book)

80 marks

Section A: one question (from a choice) on a set play from List A. Section B: one two-part question on a given extract from one of the set plays from List B Section C: one question on the work of theatre makers in a single live theatre production

25 marks

Marked by teachers and externally moderated on DVD

60 marks

Devised performance An individual record of the processes involved in creating the devised piece which could be a combination of written and/or filmed evidence.

20 marks 40 marks

Marked by visiting external examiner

60 marks

Performance of Extract 3 in front of an audience.

40 marks

Reflective report

20 marks

40%

25 marks

30 marks

30%

(Methodology of a prescribed practitioner must be applied to Extract 3) Extract 3 is to be presented as a final assessed piece (in which students may contribute as performer, designer or director) Reflective report analysing and evaluating theatrical interpretation of all three extracts

Degree Possibilities A Theatre Studies/Performance Art or Drama degree may be studied alone or as a combined course with a wide range of other subjects, such as English, a foreign language or Music. Courses offered range from the theoretical and historical to those with a very high practical content. Some degree courses are now assessed through 100% coursework. Experience has shown that students offering Theatre Studies are as likely to make a successful application to Oxford and Cambridge universities as with any other subject. A large number of boys taking Theatre Studies at A Level have gone on to follow a variety of courses at Oxbridge in recent years.

Key Skills developed at A Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 65

Theology â&#x20AC;&#x201C; L6th Year Examination Board Specification No.

OCR H173

Pre-requisites This course extends the knowledge, understanding and skills acquired by pupils in GCSE Theology and Philosophy, though this is not a pre-requisite (Level 8/9 in GCSE Theology and Philosophy recommended). It is necessary, however, for pupils to enjoy engaging fully in class discussion, critically analysing different theological positions and developing arguments of their own.

What is Theology? Theology offers students the opportunity to engage with some of the ideas that have played a formative role in the development of Western culture, as well as inter-acting with a wide range of scholarly literature, including some extremely influential primary sources.

What sort of pupil does Theology suit? The subject is ideal for someone who enjoys debating, wants to develop their ability to construct cogent arguments and is prepared to read a range of primary and secondary literature thoughtfully and critically. Module Title AS(H173)

Content

H173(01)

Philosophy of Religion

H173(02)

Ethics

H173

Christian Thought

Weighting AS A2

Assessment

Ancient philosophical influences. Arguments about the existence of God. The nature and impact of religious experience. The challenge for religious believe of the problem of evil. The nature of the soul, mind and body. The possibility of life after death. Normative ethical theories: deontological and teleological, religious and nonreligious. Applied Ethics: Euthanasia and business ethics. Critical analysis of the concepts of human nature in the context of the purpose of life, the self and immortality, natural and revealed theology. Historical and theological understandings of the person of Jesus Christ. Sources of wisdom and authority, ideas and impact of Dietrich Bonhoeffer

33.3%

1 hour written Examination. Two essay questions out of four (total of 60 marks) 1 hour written Examination. Two essay questions out of four (total of 60 marks) 1 hour written Examination. Two essay questions out of four (total of 60 marks)

Key Skills developed at L6th Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 66

Theology – U6th Year Examination Board Specification No.

OCR H573

What is Theology? Through a study of the Philosophy of Religion, Religious Ethics and Christian Thought, pupils will reflect upon the fundamental questions of human existence and the contemporary application of various ethical theories.

A Level Specification In addition to the contents of the AS Course, students will also study the following: Module

Title

Content

H573 (01)

Philosophy of Religion

The nature or attributes of God including omnipotence, omniscience, Omni benevolence, eternity and free will Religious language including Aquinas’ analogy of attribution and analogy of proper proportion Twentieth century perspectives and philosophical comparisons including Ayer’s approach to verification and Wittgenstein’s views on language games and forms of life Meta-ethical theories including naturalism, intuitionism and emotivism. Conscience including Aquinas’ theological approach and Freud’s psychological approach Sexual Ethics including premarital and extramarital sex and homosexuality Religious pluralism and theology Religious pluralism and society Gender and Society Gender and Theology The challenge of Secularism Liberation Theology and Marx

H573 (02)

Ethics

H573 (04)

Christian Thought

Assessment

Weighting 33.3%

1 hour written Examination Two essay questions out of four (total of 60 marks). 1 hour written Examination Two essay questions out of four (total of 60 marks). 1 hour written Examination Two essay questions out of four (total of 60 marks).

33.3%

Key Skills developed at A Level Communication & Literacy

Information Technology

Numeracy

Problem Solving

Team work

Independent Study

January 2019 Page | 67

Choosing your A Level Courses Subject Specific Guidance The most popular university courses to which students at Haberdashersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; apply are detailed below by the University Applications Advisers. Refer to Mrs Swallow for advice and guidance if your choice of course does not feature in this section. The advice and guidance offered here is correct at the time of printing. You must bear in mind that applying to study a university course is a very fluid environment, requirements changing from one year to the next. You are recommended to follow websites carefully and to contact Undergraduate Admissions Tutors for clarification.

Subjects Classics Computer Science Dentistry Economics Engineering English Literature English Language Geography History Law Mathematics Medicine Modern Languages Natural Sciences Philosophy Philosophy, Politics and Economics Politics Theology Veterinary Science

January 2019 Page | 68

January 2019 Page | 69

UCAS Advisers 2019/2020 Higher Education Subject Area

Teacher

Head of University Admissions

Mrs J B Swallow

Secretary to University Admissions and Careers

Mrs K Wheeler

Head of Careers

Mrs K Nash

Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Science

Mr C Glanville

Economics

Mr M Catley Mr C Raatz

English Theatre Studies, Linguistics

Mr I Wheeler

Geography and Land Economy

Mr R Cooper

History American Studies

Mr A P A Simm

Law

Mr A Lawrence

Maths and Computer Science Actuarial Science Accountancy and Finance Accountancy and Management

Mr B Brown Mrs G Lyons

Medicine & Dentistry

Dr R Randall

Modern Languages

Mr J C Swallow

Science and Engineering Architecture, Natural Sciences and Physics

Philosophy PPE, Classics, Theology, Religious Studies

Mr R Kingdon Dr J Green

Politics & HSPS

Mr S Clark

American University Applications

Mr S Pinkus

January 2019 Page | 70

Advice for those intending to study Classics Applications Adviser for Classics: Dr J Green What would I study and how do courses differ? "With room for specialists and generalists, the Greco-Roman world offers something for everyone. Pots and plays, Plato and Pausanias – the range of areas Classicists study is exhilarating, offering a great base from which to branch out, alongside a grounding in an inherently fascinating area with excellent travel opportunities. The magic of ancient objects and the thrill of tracing their importance throughout history have inspired people for generations. Enhanced linguistic aptitude, sharp critical skills, excellence in creating and dissecting rhetoric, and a sensitive approach to intercultural issues make Classicists interesting people with excellent employment prospects – a group it’s well worth joining." - Dr Cressida Ryan, classics outreach officer, University of Oxford. You will study classical cultures and languages first and foremost, and generally this means Greek and Latin. Expect in-depth study of the languages and their structures, in order to be able to translate from ancient texts and understand their influence in the formation of modern European languages. You’re also likely to focus on the history of these ancient civilizations, although approaches vary from university to university. Generally speaking, a BA in Classics will take three years or four, if you have not studied Latin before. St Andrews offer a four-year MA course for all students. Cambridge offers a three-year course with an ‘intensive Greek’ stream to get you up to speed on Classical Greek. You can also study a degree which combines either Greek or Latin with a modern language on the Modern and Medieval Languages Course. King’s offers similar courses and Durham has three Single Honours degrees: Ancient History, Classical Past and Classics. It also offers Joint Honours in Ancient History and Archaeology, and Ancient, Medieval and Modern History. The Oxford course is divided into the two sub-faculties of Classical Languages and Literature, and Ancient History and Classical Archaeology. Related degrees: Classical Archaeology; Classical Art; Roman Studies; Ancient World; Greek; Latin; Modern and Medieval Languages. What are typical entry requirements? Previous study in Greek or Latin will obviously help, although it is not compulsory at most universities. For example, Oxford has two pathways for Classics students: one for those with a prior knowledge of the language and one for those without. Classics is offered at more traditional universities and grade requirements are as follows: Cambridge A*AA, Oxford and Durham AAA, St Andrews ask for AAB. In addition to interview, Oxford sets an aptitude test (samples can be found here) www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/undergraduate_courses/courses/classics/classics _how_to.html Cambridge colleges have different entry requirements with most, but not all colleges, setting a written test (see link) http://www.cam.ac.uk/admissions/undergraduate/courses/classics/tests.html). The full range of degree course offers can be found by consulting HEAP 2012 in the Careers library. Are there any essential or recommended AS or A Levels? Any subject which calls for the capacities needed in a Classics degree, such as writing essays, criticising literature, learning languages, and handling historical evidence are useful preparation. Latin, English, History, Philosophy and Modern Languages are ideal. Nonetheless, depending on which course you choose, Latin is not compulsory. Universities stress that what matters is that you show a real desire to study the subject (whether it be reading beyond your set texts in the original language or in translation, or volunteering on a local archaeological dig!). Which are the best universities for Classics? Classics at the more traditional universities Cambridge, Oxford, and Durham are particularly competitive. However, there are very good degree courses offered at UCL, Warwick, St Andrews, Exeter and Bristol. http://www.thecompleteuniversityguide.co.uk/league-tables/rankings?s=Classics+%26+Ancient+History#] The above link shows the current (2012) ranking of Classics and Ancient History courses January 2019 Page | 71

Is there any special advice for Oxbridge applicants? See above. Oxford and most Cambridge Colleges set a written test as part of the interview process. What is important for my personal statement or interview? Admissions tutors will need evidence of a genuine interest in Classics, Ancient History and/or Ancient Civilisation, and one which has not just started a few weeks before the writing of your personal statement. Your reading around the subject(s) and active involvement in, for example, an archaeological dig or a trip to a site of ancient historical interest and your reflections on your experiences, should form an important part of your personal statement. Show an intelligent interest in the literature you have studied and/or discuss your enthusiasm for the study of a classical language and the insight it has provided into modern English, and/or the ancient culture from which it derives. It is particularly impressive to have an area of interest, such as a specific writer or philosopher, an aspect of ancient warfare or politics, or even an interest in ancient art, which you have undertaken to study independently, and about which you can write and discuss with confidence. Be prepared to discuss whatever you have written about in your personal statement in an Oxbridge interview. Your personal statement should also make reference to relevant work experience and you are likely to be asked about this. Suggested reading list: Universities will suggest that you read any Classics materials you find interesting. However, the following websites should inspire you… Go to the BBC archive for Melvyn Bragg’s ‘In Our Time’ series and be prepared to be dazzled at the choice of topics regarding Ancient History and Culture (all introduced and discussed by a panel of academics who not only know their subject inside out but offer fascinating insights into and knowledge of the topic in question, and in an entirely accessible way). For example (link to a programme on Aristotle’s Poetics) scroll down to the fourth choice http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio4/features/in-our-time/archive/culture/all The following books are a great starting point for those interested in Classics: ‘Tales from Ovid’ by Ted Hughes A sumptuous translation of selected stories from the Roman poet Ovid’s Metamorphoses together with a handy glossary of names. A perfect read for mythology fans’. ‘Imperium’ and ‘Lustrum’ by Robert Harris The first two parts of a remarkably vivid and authentic portrayal of the career of Cicero which reads like a pulsating political thriller. Also ‘Pompeii’ by the same author combines a brilliant description of the fatal eruption of A.D. 79 with a ripping yarn. ‘Rubicon: the Triumph and Tragedy of the Roman Republic’ by Tom Holland An atmospheric, scholarly and gripping account of the last days of the Roman republic with the fall of Caesar and the rise of Octavian, later the first Roman emperor, Augustus. The Odyssey by Homer (several translations available) Not only one of the pillars of western literature but a thoroughly entertaining story full of twists and turns and beautiful language. ‘Love, Sex and Tragedy’ by Simon Goldhill A rollicking introduction to the world of Greek tragedy which also reflects on the origins of democracy. The Beazley Archive - Oxford University’s Classical Art Research Centre http://www.beazley.ox.ac.uk/index.htm Do I need to do work experience? Ideally, you should try to get voluntary work in a museum or find a way of participating in an archaeological dig. However, evidence of any work which demands responsibility, reliability and an ability to work with others is acceptable.

January 2019 Page | 72

Which jobs can I do with Classics? Despite what one might think, people graduating from classical studies are highly valued by employers. Thanks to their studies, they learn to think logically, to compile and evaluate evidence and to express themselves clearly and succinctly both orally and in writing. Classicists can make their way into careers as diverse as the civil service, insurance, journalism, law, accountancy, public relations, computing and the wine trade. Further study is common, and according to The Times’ Good University Guide, over one third of graduates choose to pursue a postgraduate degree. You will gain invaluable ‘soft skills’ such as commitment, leadership, communication, teamwork from a degree in Classics and that will put you in a good position for just about anything.

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Advice for those intending to study Computer Science Applications Adviser for Computer Science: Mr D Franks What would I study and how do courses differ? Computer Science at degree level varies in content and may include software engineering, programming languages, artificial intelligence, data processing and graphics. All students follow broadly the same programme for the first year and then in subsequent years tailor their degree according to their own interests. There are many related degrees which can be studied, for example, Business Systems Engineering, Computing, European Computer Science, Information Systems and Information Technology, to name a few. You must do your own research by looking at the individual university websites for details as well as www.ucas.ac.uk where there is a very useful tool called Course Search which gives a great deal of information on courses. www.thecompleteuniversityguide.co.uk is an interactive site where you can highlight your requirements and create your own unique guide. https://unistats.direct.gov.uk contains statistics and reports about students’ views on the quality of teaching at different universities. What are the typical entry requirements? IGCSE Maths and English are obviously required. GCSE Physics is preferred. Highly competitive universities will demand A*AA with the A* in Maths. It must be mentioned here that when a university says “Further Maths (FM) is recommended or encouraged” then it really means “if your school offers FM, then you must take it”. Imperial is very highly rated. It is seen as a balanced course with emphasis on both theory and practical applications. The degree leads to a B/MEng. The employment rates are high. They will want A Level Maths (A*) and would ‘encourage’ you to take FM. There are plenty of good universities which offer Computer Science. There are some whose offers could be as low as BBC. Do your research. Are there any essential or recommended AS or A Levels? At highly competitive universities it is a definite advantage to be able to offer AS Further or Further Maths. You do not need to have studied Computer Science at sixth form level, but Maths or a Science A Level is essential. Without one of these your choice of Universities will be severely restricted. You must speak to your Maths teacher/ Head of Maths to ask about your suitability to study FM. There are some universities which do not require FM. Go to www.ucas.ac.uk for precise entry requirements. Which are the best universities for Computer Studies? Go to www.thecompleteuniversityguide.co.uk to find the top ranked universities for Computer Science. Currently they are Cambridge, Imperial, Oxford, St Andrews and Durham. However, the top ranked universities may not necessarily be the most suitable for you. You must do your research; visit them on special open days and so on. Do you like a Campus or a City University? Does their course content appeal to you? There are lots of factors involved – think about all of them. Is there any special advice for Oxbridge applicants? The Cambridge course is very much theory based and FIERCELY COMPETITIVE. A Level Maths is essential and FM is highly desirable. Again, this means, ‘if your school offers it you must do it’. STEP or AEA Maths may be required. Computer Science A Level is not necessary. For more information on STEP, see www.admissionstests.cambridgeassessment.org.uk/adt/step January 2019 Page | 74

There is also a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Thinking Skills Assessmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; on the day of the interview. The Oxford course is also very theory based, with Maths A Level essential and FM highly desirable. This is also a competitive course. Prospective CS students have to take the Maths Aptitude test, which have extra questions added on Logic. At interview, you will be expected to know certain topics (such as Algorithmic thinking, binary representation of numbers and state machines) which are not taught at A level. You will need to have read around Computing if you are to succeed at interview. What is important for my personal statement or interview? You have to demonstrate a real passion for Computing/Computers. Questions asked in interviews are on Computing and Mathematics and are designed to test creative thinking in problem solving and aptitude for understanding new ideas. Interview practice is vital and you must speak to the Head of ICT/Maths about this. Interview questions and personal statements should also reflect a personal interest in Computing, often in the form of discussion on a personal project or work you have undertaken. Do I need to do work experience? Yes, it is essential. Do some relevant work in a field which interests and enhances your subject knowledge and write about it. This can be in or out of school. Anything related to your passion for the subject is worth mentioning. In any case, being able to say that you worked in a team shows that you do not just sit in front of a computer unable to interact with other people. Which jobs can I do with Computer Science? Computing graduates have a unique range of skills to offer, combining in-depth knowledge of computer systems, programming and applications, with a solid grounding in logical reasoning, design, problem solving and communication. They have an understanding of the user requirements and can offer solutions. Graduates can get jobs in computing and communications companies, software houses, accountancy, banking and finance institutions, management and computing consultancies, government departments, research laboratories, and the media industry. Within each industrial or commercial sector, the job opportunities are wide. For example, the media industry has offered graduates employment in publishing, games software, virtual reality, multimedia applications for film and video, computer animation, robotics and internet hardware and software support and development. Computer Science degrees also offer opportunities within other areas of science, the ability to use computational thinking, breaking a large program into a simple set of steps, is a skill that is well-regarded in other disciplines, and one of the reasons why so many CEOs are currently learning to program. Additional information You can find plenty of interesting computing related pages on the internet. Try searching for computing pioneers, the Turing test, von Neumann machines and object-oriented programming to name a few.

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Advice for those intending to study Dentistry Applications Adviser for Dentistry: Mr C Glanville What would I study and how do courses differ? Dentistry is the branch of Medicine that is involved in the study, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases, disorders and conditions of the oral cavity, maxillofacial area and associated structures and their impact on the human body. Dentistry is widely considered necessary for complete overall health. Most dental schools adopt a similar structure in their courses but key differences have begun to emerge in the teaching methodology and delivery of course content. It is therefore important for students to research the details of each course carefully and appreciate the key features and differences via university websites. A dental course lasts five years and most dental schools offer one or two years of pre-clinical study, often taught outside the school covering the following: Anatomy, Biomedical Sciences, Physiology, Biochemistry, Oral Biology, Pharmacology, First aid and Introduction to Clinical Skills. In addition, students cover the effects of anaesthetics and other components common to Medicine and Dentistry such as Psychology. As the course progresses the amount of clinical work carried out increases and most universities offer meaningful contact with patients after the third year. Oral Biology, Disease and Pathology are taught alongside the clinical work, as well as social and psychological aspects of patient care. During the clinical years students are given the opportunity to study some of the following courses: Behavioural Science, Computing and Statistics, Dental Materials, Dental Public Health, Dental Prosthetics, Haematology, Operative Techniques, Children’s Dentistry, Restorative Dentistry, Oral and Medicine Surgery, Orthodontics, Forensic Dentistry, Sedation, Radiology and Pain and Anxiety Management. The final year consists of a common core of academic work and clinical dental practice and is designed to consolidate and enhance all the work and experience of the previous years of study. Near the end of the clinical course a personal study (an elective) is carried out on a topic of interest. At the end of the five years a professional examination is taken to qualify. What are typical entry requirements? There is fierce competition to secure a place at any of the 13 dental schools in the United Kingdom. From Haberdashers’ students most dental schools prefer A and A* grades at GCSE, (particularly in English, Maths, Biology and Chemistry) and again A grades at A Level. It is Most courses now require one A* at A Level. In addition, a number of dental schools require applicants to sit the pre-admissions test, the UKCAT (UK Clinical Aptitude Test), full details of which are given in the most recent edition of the book ‘Getting Into Dental School’, published by Mander Portman Woodward. Are there any essential or recommended A Levels? All dental schools expect you to study A Level Chemistry and most want A Level Biology as well. A Level requirements do vary and it is important to carry out your own research. AS Level Results You must gain the highest marks you can in the AS examinations. A very high equivalent grade A average across your subjects will be needed for us to make strong A Level predictions, i.e. A*. The school will quote exceptional AS marks in the academic reference. As many schools do not offer the option of taking AS Level in the new linear A Level examinations, many universities will not use your AS grade as part of their selection process. However, they will be used as the basis of your predictions, which will be used to process your application. Do your research. Poor AS grades might mean you have to rethink, study Bio Med Sciences, for example, then think about applying for dentistry either as post graduate or as an undergraduate. Which is the best university for Dentistry? All 13 universities in the UK are very good. There is no such thing as a bad dental school in the UK. Information in league tables which is based on a range of variables only tells you a small part of the whole story. League tables should only be used as a guide: they are not substitutes for visiting the dental schools, looking at the course content in detail, reading the university prospectus and speaking to those involved with the course. Several Haberdashers’ students have also gone abroad to study dentistry at private January 2019 Page | 76

universities in Spain and the Czech Republic. The entry requirements for such institutions tend to be lower and the application procedure is entirely separate from UCAS. Is there any special advice for Oxbridge applicants? Neither Oxford nor Cambridge offers a Dentistry course. What is important for my personal statement or interview? As Dentistry is essentially a science, your interest in the science subjects is important. This includes reading scientific journals, writing articles for school publications or carrying out a piece of scientific research. Dentistry involves working in confined spaces, where fine motor skills are important. Your personal statement should include examples of your manual dexterity. Your personal statement should also give details of teamwork activities you have been involved in. A variety of work experience in the dental field is very important for interview. VERY IMPORTANT NOTE: When preparing your statement you much access the Dentistry schools’ websites to ensure you cover what they are looking for eg proof of manual dexterity, specified number of work experience weeks, lab work, etc. Do I need to do work experience? As Dentistry is a vocational subject, most dental schools will be looking for 4-5 weeks of work experience in a dental field, the more the better and the more diverse the better. We recommend having experience in both NHS and private settings, as well as dental surgeries and hospital dental departments. Orthodontics, maxillofacial surgery and dental labs are also areas worth investigating for work experience. Which jobs can I do with Dentistry? As a qualified dentist you can specialise in any of the following: Restorative Dentistry, Orthodontics, Paediatric Dentistry, Oral Surgery, Dental Public Health, Oral Medicine, Oral Microbiology, Oral Pathology, Forensic Odontology, Dental and Maxillofacial Radiology, Cosmetic Dentistry and Prosthetics. Additional information: • Am I likely to be called for interview? Yes. • Is there any particular reading I should do? Scientific journals (e.g. the British Dental Journal) and be aware of key developments regarding health issues as they appear in the media. • Useful websites www.dentistry.co.uk www.bda.org www.gdc-uk.org Related degrees: Biomedical Sciences, Medicine

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Advice for those intending to study Economics Applications Adviser for Economics – Mr Catley, Mr C Raatz & Mrs G Lyons What would I study and how do courses differ? Undergraduate degrees in Economics seek to explain the way people and businesses react to economic events and provide policy solutions for governments to deal with the increasingly critical economic issues which shape the world in which we live. Many topics in Economics are controversial. What caused the economic crisis of 2008 and were the policies used to respond to the crisis appropriate? Is globalisation increasing inequality? How should government deal with underemployment? Should the railways be re-nationalised? Is the housing market broken and how can we fix it? Using a wide range of analytical techniques, Economics degrees tackle a broad range of problems such as those set out above. The method of study is usually focused around formal modelling of economic relationships and testing hypotheses against data. Aspiring undergraduates should therefore have excellent problem-solving skills, including mathematical and statistical abilities. Equally, economists need to be able to explain their ideas clearly, to non-specialists, meaning you will also require the ability to interpret complex theoretical models and communicate the impact of real world events with clarity. The majority of Economics degrees use the first year to teach students the essential foundations of Economics, covering core microeconomic and macroeconomic theory. The second year is then often used to apply this knowledge to a wide range of topic areas, from International Economics to Political Economy. It is usually the case that third year courses give students the opportunity to specialise in areas of the subject which interest them, which tends to include writing a dissertation. You should explore university websites to get more detail about the courses in which you are interested, as each institution has its own particular approach to the study of Economics. An increasingly important field of Economics is Econometrics. Economics must be tested against empirical data and applied to the real world; Econometrics is the statistical branch of Economics which develops and applies mathematical techniques and is an essential tool for modern economists. Again, different institutions put a different emphasis on this area of the subject, and you need to decide how mathematical an Economics degree you want to study. Broadly, BSc Economics courses are more technical in nature than BA Economics courses, although you should look at individual websites for a more accurate picture. What are typical entry requirements? Economics courses are highly competitive: the majority of Russell group universities will require you to achieve A*AA. It is difficult to find a straight Economics course at a competitive university with a standard offer of less than AAA. Joint Honours courses (e.g. Economics & Management, Economics & Finance) often have a lower offer, requiring you to achieve AAA-AAB at most Russell group universities. Standard offers made for the three Oxbridge courses are: • • •

Cambridge Economics: Cambridge Land Economy: Oxford Economics & Management:

A*A*A A*AA A*AA

Do be aware that these are subject to change and some exceptions apply. The full range of degree course offers can be found by consulting HEAP 2019 in the Careers library. Note that as Haberdashers’ students you should expect to be offered at the top of the grade range some universities display – for example, whilst Bristol states a grade range of A*AA-AAB for Economics in order to meet access targets, Haberdashers’ students are unlikely to be made offers below A*AA.

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Are there any essential or recommended AS or A Levels? All Russell group universities require you to study Maths to A Level for pure Economics courses. Studying Economics to A Level is recommended by most universities. Whilst not an official entry requirement, studying Further Maths to A Level is highly recommended if applying to Cambridge or LSE for Economics. Entry requirements vary for Joint Honours courses, but some require Maths to AS Level. BSc courses are more likely to require Maths than BA courses. The precise entry requirements can be found by consulting www.ucas.ac.uk and clicking Course Search or researching individual university websites. Which are the best universities for Economics? The top ranked, and among the most competitive, courses can be found at Cambridge, Oxford, LSE, Imperial, St Andrews and Durham (The Complete University Guide, 2019). Whilst this may help guide your choices, be careful to consider other factors as well. The courses offered at different universities often vary hugely, with different levels of mathematical content and different option papers in the second and third years. You should choose the courses which look most interesting to you and should not base your choices solely on a rankings list which changes each year anyway! Is there any special advice for Oxbridge applicants? Cambridge Economics applicants should be aware that there is a strong correlation between high GCSE and AS module marks and receiving an offer – very broadly, successful applicants tend to have scored at least 8 A* at GCSE and above 90% in their top three AS Levels. 2016/17 saw the introduction of an admissions test for Economics. This comprises an 80-minute paper split equally between problem solving and Advanced Mathematics and a 40-minute essay paper based on an unseen extract. Additional assessment generally occurs at the time of interview while the interviews themselves focus on discussion of a wide range of topics and sometimes have a mathematical component. All Haberdashers’ students who have received offers in recent years have studied Further Maths to A2 Level. Much of the same advice holds for the Cambridge Land Economy course. Many Land Economy applicants will have studied Economics, Geography and Maths at AS Level. Land Economy and Oxford Economics & Management applicants will be required to take the Thinking Skills Assessment (TSA) which tests a range of problem-solving skills and is used to screen applicants prior to interview. Practice papers are available online and support is offered through the Enhancement and Enrichment programme in school. At interview it is particularly important to have considered why you want to study Management alongside Economics. Please note that E&M at Oxford is an extremely competitive course with less than 100 offers made in total and over 18 applicants per place according to the most recent statistics. Enhancement classes are run by the Economics Department in preparation for rigorous academic interviews. In all cases, wider reading and a passion for Economics is essential to a successful application. What is important for my personal statement or interview? University admissions tutors are looking for students who have researched the course they are applying for and have a genuine passion for the subject. Regular reading of a quality newspaper and The Economist can help you develop a more informed understanding of the current global macroeconomic climate and may stimulate questions which you can demonstrate in your personal statement that you have sought the answers to. Successful applicants also need to be able to show strong technical skills and should not be surprised if they are faced with difficult Economics or Maths questions at interview. Most importantly, do your best to stand out from the thousands of applicants who say they are passionate about studying Economics by reading widely around the subject, attending external events and demonstrating what you have learnt from your academic subjects and your reading in your personal statement. Showing that you have conducted personal research through wider reading, delivering a presentation, working on an original topic for your Aske Project, an essay competition entry and writing an article for ‘Equilibrium’ stand you in a strong position and provide inspiring material for interviews. Do I need to do work experience? Economics is an academic degree so work experience is not an entry requirement for undergraduate courses. Applicants should not make the mistake of reeling off a list of work experience placements at January 2019 Page | 79

financial institutions under the assumption that this will impress admissions tutors. This, if anything, will harm your application, as it sends a signal that you are studying Economics because of its potentially lucrative career prospects upon graduation rather than a love for the subject. Instead, you should use work experience placements to highlight any skills or areas of interest you have developed which, crucially, will make you a better or more inquisitive economist at university. It is therefore what you have learnt from your work experience placement which is significantly more important than where you did it. After all, even the smallest firms are presented with the decision making and external challenges with which the study of Economics can help. Which jobs can I do with Economics? Economics degrees provide students with decision making, research and analytical skills which are highly valued by employers. As such, Economics graduates find themselves with a wide range of career options open to them upon leaving university, which may or may not be related to the discipline they studied. Many go on to work in financial services, but it is equally possible that you could go onto work in education, communications, government agencies, consulting or charitable organisations. Additional information The following website, funded by the Royal Economics Society and developed by academics and students from Bristol and other leading universities, provides further detail on many of the issues outlined above: http://whystudyeconomics.ac.uk/ You should also log onto The Economistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website, from which you can access a range of topical articles which will broaden your understanding of the subject and may stimulate areas of interest for you to investigate: http://www.economist.com/ (Unlimited access is available via the Library section of Habsnet) Related degrees Because Economics is a social science, it relates closely to and overlaps with a wide range of subjects. As such it is not uncommon for Haberdashersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; students to study a Joint Honours course which combines theoretical and practical interests, such as Economics and Finance or Economics and Management. Equally, degrees combining Economics with a modern language or History are becoming increasingly popular, alongside the prestigious combination of PPE offered by many leading universities. Many students choose to study Finance, Business or Management related degrees without Economics. These courses are generally less competitive. You should also look out for opportunities to spend a year abroad. Such alternative options are too numerous to list here, but you should research these possibilities further using the Course Search function on the UCAS website: www.ucas.ac.uk Do also consider there are an increasing number of attractive higher level and degree apprenticeship opportunities available as an alternative to going to university. See Mrs Nash for further details.

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Advice for those intending to study Engineering Applications Adviser for Engineering – Mr R J Kingdon What would I study and how do courses differ? Engineering courses have five main branches, General, Electrical, Mechanical, Aeronautical, Civil and Structural. Within some of these you can also choose management or business and finance options. See related degrees for more specialist courses. Generally speaking, you will be signing up for either a 3 year BEng or a 4 year MEng degree. Most universities allow you to change during the course but may insist on a good performance in your 1st year exams for you to step up from a BEng to the MEng course (check individual web sites for detailed information). The MEng is particularly useful if you are interested in becoming a Chartered Engineer. There is a multitude of different Engineering courses on offer through UCAS. It is vital you consider each course carefully and do not assume for example that Mech Eng courses are the same all over the country. Oxbridge is a prime example; their courses are entirely different from each other and from other universities. Have a look at the module options available for you to select in your 3 rd and 4th years – does the university have options that are of particular interest to you? An important point to consider is if you want to include a year’s work experience as part of your degree. Does the course you are applying for offer this as an option? Remember that this will extend your degree by another year. Adding practical experience to your degree is highly valuable to your career. If you are keen to continue a language you should also consider this as part of your short-listing process. Universities on the UCAS website use entry profiles to help them select students – they also help you select the correct course for you. Look for the letters ‘EP’ after course codes. The Institution of Mechanical Engineers has an Accredited Degree list of courses which fulfil the requirements for membership IMechE and chartered status CEng. http://www.imeche.org/membership/professional-registration/eligibility/academicrequirements/accrediteddegrees What are typical entry requirements? Top universities are asking for A*AA. Some will require the A* in Maths rather than Physics. Their thinking here is that they want students who are not going to struggle with the high maths content of the course. Imperial Aeronautical Eng were the first course in the country to ask for A*A*A and they have a 30-minute maths test! Courses which ask for AAB will still insist that the AA grades are Physics and Maths. Many universities do not accept UCAS points: A*AC is not the same as AAB. Foundation degree courses are not aimed at students who have underperformed in their A Level Physics and Maths. They are aimed at students who achieved high grades in the wrong A Levels. The full range of degree course offers can be found by consulting HEAP 2018 in the careers section of the school library. The precise entry requirements can be found by consulting www.ucas.ac.uk and clicking 2. Find a Course Search, or researching individual university websites. Are there any essential or recommended AS or A Levels? Universities generally do not say that Design and Technology is essential. But, for example, if you are interested in product design then AS level D&T may well add depth to your application. The top universities like students to have Further Maths A level; if you do not, then an offer including an A* in single maths is highly likely. January 2019 Page | 81

Which is the best university for Engineering? When I am asked the question “Do you believe university league tables?” I generally reply “Do you believe in fairies?” The Guardian and Times newspapers both offer books/websites of league tables for different university courses. But it is easy for a university to target and increase its position in these tables and boost its standing amongst its competitors. It is important that you research the courses carefully, making sure that you are able to select the courses/options that interest you. The question “which is the best university?” is really asking “which is the best university for XXX student?” and that is up to you! Is there any special advice for Oxbridge applicants? If you are considering Oxbridge you must research the courses carefully and choose the one which most interests you. You must consider what is going to help you stand out from the crowd. Oxbridge is inundated with students with very high module scores – what will make you special? Work experience and wider reading will help. For Engineering most of the Cambridge colleges ask you to take a test at interview or take the Thinking Skills Assessment which assesses critical thinking and problem-solving skills. All candidates who wish to study Engineering at Oxford need to register for the Physics Aptitude Test as part of their application. The PAT is very tough and results of the test will be combined with your personal statement and school reference to draw up a short list for interview. Have a look at the many ‘problem solving’ books in the library. Websites: do the problems on https://isaacphysics.org/ and http://i-want-to-study-engineering.org/. Physics Olympiad past papers are also good for interview preparation. For further information on how Oxford will use the results of the PAT and for further information about the test: http://www.eng.ox.ac.uk/admissions/undergraduate/applying-for-admission/engineering-admissionstest What is important for my personal statement or interview? “A good personal statement should make it clear why the candidate wants to read their particular subject and supply concrete evidence of that enthusiasm. It should reflect the distinctive style and characteristics of its author”, Nicholas Shrimpton Vice-Principal Lady Margaret Hall, Oxford. An engineering related hobby will help demonstrate an interest in engineering beyond the confines of an A Level specification. It is important that you read widely outside your A Level specifications. Your reading should demonstrate your enthusiasm and understanding for the specialism you are considering and help make you stand out from the crowd. Enthusiastic students are also members of a professional society e.g. The Institution of Engineering and Technology, Institution of Mechanical Engineers or Institution of Chemical Engineers to name a few. Have you attended talks at universities or institutions? Do I need to do work experience? Work experience helps demonstrate to the Admissions Tutors how motivated you are. It gives you a chance to confirm that you know something about the world of work you are about to enter and that you understand where 4 years of study will take you. You should speak to Mrs Nash in the Careers Office about what she has available (Y11 will take priority) and be prepared to send your own CV with a covering letter to employers.

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Headstart courses offer a very wide range of courses at different universities and are considered a worthwhile way of gaining an insight into what you will be doing at university. Don’t forget to include what personal and engineering lessons you have learned from it in your personal statement. http://www.etrust.org.uk/headstart.cfm The Smallpeice Trust has a number of Y11 and Y12 specialist residential courses http://www.smallpeicetrust.org.uk/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=23 Gap Year The Year in Industry (YINI) organisation offer help in finding gap year employers. http://www.etrust.org.uk/year_in_industry.cfm Which jobs can I do with Engineering? Imperial College Careers Advisory service has an excellent website dedicated to a survey asking “What do imperial graduates do?” http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/careers/resources/destinations/undergraduates/ It gives lists of employers and occupations for their undergraduates. A popular website for looking for a job in engineering is theENGINEERjobs. This site will help give you an insight into what is available out in the real world. http://jobs.theengineer.co.uk/?cmpid=5027 Additional information Funding IMechE (Institution of Mechanical Engineers): The IMechE offers a number of undergraduate scholarships for students about to embark upon their degree (of up to £1,000 per annum.). http://www.imeche.org/about-us/scholarships-and-awards/undergraduate-and-apprentice/scholarships IET (Institution of Engineering and Technology) The IET offers an impressive range of scholarships both for students just starting university (of up to £3,000 per annum) and those commencing the second, third, or final years of their degrees (of up to £1,000 per annum). http://conferences.theiet.org/achievement/index.cfm Am I likely to be called for interview? Bath says: “In normal circumstances, applicants will not be required to attend an interview or to sit additional selection tests. Decisions on applications are primarily based on the subjects studied, the reference and the personal statement.” Imperial says: “In addition to your academic ability, your application will be considered on your wider profile and an interview where possible to assess your potential for success in your degree choice. We will look at your personal statement and reference to understand your personal motivation, commitment to your chosen area of study. We will invite you to one of our interview afternoons, where you’ll have the opportunity to ask any questions you have about our programmes and life at Imperial. You’ll be shown around the department and campus by our department’s undergraduate students, and interviewed by a member of academic staff.” UCL says: “Interviews allow us to assess your intellectual ability and how interested you are in Electrical Engineering. The interviews typically last around 20-30 minutes. They will be a mix of general questions about your experiences as well as technical questions where we try and find out how you think through problems.” Is there any particular reading I should do? It is important that you read widely outside your A level specifications. Your reading should demonstrate your enthusiasm and understanding for engineering and help make you stand out from the crowd.

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Quoting books from a prescribed reading list may only demonstrate just how dull you are! Best advice is just to start reading and go on from there. The school library has an excellent range of books. Book shops near universities will have a wider range of engineering books than those in small towns. Cambridge University has a recommended reading list. http://www.eng.cam.ac.uk/admissions/information/reading.html But how motivated are you if all you can do is read what they recommend! There is no point in writing extensively about the books you have read in your personal statement, quote titles and be prepared to talk about them in detail at interview. The following quote from Oxford sum-up how most universities feel about reading lists: â&#x20AC;&#x153;At present we do not produce a reading list for students applying for Engineering Science but we encourage you to read any relevant materials which you find interesting.â&#x20AC;? Related degrees There are a great many specialist Engineering courses. If you know exactly what type of employment you want to enter these can offer a more direct route. Course titles include: Aeronautical, Automotive, Biomedical, Manufacturing, Software and Electronic Engineering. Universities also offer degrees combining business, finance and Management. Courses which offer a language option generally include a year abroad. See the UCAS website for a detailed listing.

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Advice for those intending to study English Literature Applications Adviser for English Literature – Mr I Wheeler What would I study and how do courses differ? You will study a range of literature from across time and cultures and courses differ enormously from institution to institution. It seems an obvious thing to say, but a great deal of your time will be spent reading a combination of core texts, critical writings and areas of your own academic interest. There will also be a requirement to submit essays on a rolling basis throughout the course. It is likely that you will have very little supervised contact time with your tutors – perhaps 10 hours of lectures and tutorials per week. The rest of your time will be spent in the library or consuming literature in the academic venue of your choice. All English Literature courses will have a requirement to study writing from a range of contexts, but some are more prescriptive than others. Some courses will adopt a chronological approach, studying a range of literature from Anglo-Saxon times through to the present day; others allow greater freedom of choice from the beginning and have a selection of core modules that sit alongside a range of options. Are there any essential or recommended AS or A levels? You must have an A-level in English Literature. Other subjects that support an English Literature application include English Language, History and Classics, but there is no requirement to hold these qualifications. You will be expected to produce a number of essays over the course of study, so A-levels in essay subjects would be regarded favourably. Which is the best university for English and what are the typical grade requirements? Many universities offer highly regarded courses. The following list is by no means exhaustive; Cambridge, Oxford, Bristol, Kings College London, Durham, Exeter, York, Warwick, St Andrews, Edinburgh, Nottingham, Sheffield, Leeds, Manchester. Most universities will make an offer in the A*AA – AAB range, but this varies from course to course and some will be as high as A*A*A. Is there any special advice for Oxbridge applicants? Any kind of ‘literary’ activity is valuable here: attending talks and events, creative writing, journalism, theatre/film –all of these both in and out of school. Be sure to make the most of opportunities as and when they occur, and just as importantly go out and find these opportunities yourself. You live a short journey away from one of the most vibrant cultural hubs in the world: use it to your advantage. By far the most important aspect to distinguish the very best English applicants is an independent and ambitious engagement with reading and thinking well beyond the requirements of the A-Level course. Oxford and Cambridge candidates are required to sit the ELAT. This is a written test which examines your ability to read texts closely, synthesize information and write coherently. For more information, see the weblinks below. What is important for my personal statement or interview? The crucial factor will be your ability to show that you are well-read, culturally aware, and able to articulate your original thoughts with care and precision. Do not be coy about basing some of what you say around your A Level texts, but remember that what may distinguish you from the other candidates is what you have studied and experienced independently and outside the classroom. It is imperative that you demonstrate a breadth of reading in your personal statement and that you have engaged with your choice of texts. Find an area or classic author that you enjoy and spend time getting to know their world view. Do I need to do work experience? There is no requirement to undertake work experience directly relevant to the course. If you are able to find a placement which gives you experience of working, say, in a high-profile cultural environment – journalism, publishing, the arts – then this will of course be valuable evidence to show your engagement with the subject outside the curriculum. January 2019 Page | 85

Additional information (From www.whystudyenglish.ac.uk/you-can/index.htm) “Some people say that an English degree won’t help you get a job because it’s not a ‘vocational’ subject: it doesn’t teach you a specific skill for a particular kind of job. The people who’ll actually be hiring you know better. What potential employers want most is someone with motivation, intelligence, and proven ability to work. Getting an English degree shows that you have all of those qualities. The ability to communicate is also very valuable for almost any job. Studying English teaches you how to write clearly and effectively. Most courses also require presentations and seminar discussions to develop your spoken communication skills. All that reading is useful, too. Studying English literature at degree level teaches you how to analyse complex information with the help of sophisticated ideas and theories. That ability to read, reflect, and critique – and then synthesise your conclusions clearly – is essential to many kinds of work – as is the ability to construct and defend an argument.” Am I likely to be called for interview? Oxford and Cambridge always require interviews before offering places; other universities may do so, but this is fairly unlikely. Some universities will require you to complete a written task in place of an interview. Is there any particular reading I should do? Nothing specific. You should aim for a balance of breadth and depth. You should certainly be in the habit of reading novels regularly, and the more poetry, drama and Shakespeare you can engage with the better. Intelligent non-fiction and journalism will be helpful in encouraging the development of your own views. While you should aim to read widely, it would be a good idea to show a sense of connection in some of what you read: it is always impressive, for example, to show that you have read widely around the subject of your curriculum study, increasing your contextual awareness. Keep an eye on the shortlists of the major fiction prizes e.g. the Man Booker. Show an awareness of English Literature as a living and constantly evolving subject by reading publications such as the Times Literary Supplement, the London Review of Book and the New York Times Review of Books. These mostly contain in-depth articles on literary and political subjects masquerading as book reviews, many written by experts in their fields. Newspaper supplements are also worth regular attention (e.g. the Review section in Saturday’s Guardian). Also consider periodicals such as The Spectator, The Economist, Literary Review. Useful websites: University Applications For a broad overview of the degree subject, what you can expect and how it will help career prospects: http://www.whystudyenglish.ac.uk/ (especially the essay But... Why Study English Literature?) Information about the ELAT test for Oxford applicants: http://www.admissionstests.cambridgeassessment.org.uk/adt/elat http://www.thestudentroom.co.uk/wiki/English_Degree Career choices: http://www.afterenglish.ac.uk/ Useful websites: Other Cultural and political writing: http://www.aldaily.com/ Remember that there are any number of ‘LitBlogs’ out there, of varying quality. These may or may not interest you; you may even consider starting your own. Related degrees English Literature is, of course, a subject which combines extremely well with other subjects, and many Joint Honours degrees are available, varying from university to university. These may well be excellent choices for you, but do bear in mind that your interest and expertise in, say, Spanish 20th Century Literature is very likely to be something you can bring in to play in a straight English Literature degree borrowing a paper from Modern Languages, say, or in a dissertation, without necessarily taking Joint Honours. Most humanities subjects e.g. History, Philosophy can combine with English Literature.

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Advice for those intending to study English Language Applications Adviser for English Language: Mr I Wheeler What would I study and how do courses differ? Courses differ considerably from university to university, though most will allow you to select modules of particular interest to accompany a core syllabus. You can opt to pursue a course in English Language and/or Linguistics, and the subject is often paired with other subjects (English Literature, a foreign language, psychology etc) or you can select modules from a related subject area. It is important to undertake adequate research to make sure you are applying for a course that covers areas of particular interest to you. A typical English Language course will cover phonology, morphology and grammar in considerable detail before moving on to historical language change, child language acquisition, discourse analysis, genre studies and range of linguistic theories. Depending on your chosen university, you might be able to study modules that involve accent and dialect, creative writing or the study of American or English Literature, Music, Theology or Chinese. Are there any essential or recommended AS or A levels? Some universities will prefer you to have studied English Language at A-level, but this is not always a requirement. It is more important that you have an interest in language, whether this be the English language or Linguistics in a more general sense. You will be expected to produce a number of essays over the course of study, so A-levels in essay subjects would be regarded favourably. Which is the best university for English and what are the typical grade requirements? Many universities offer highly regarded courses. The following list is by no means exhaustive; Cambridge, Kings College London, Lancaster, Durham, Exeter, Oxford, York, Warwick, St Andrews, Edinburgh, Nottingham, Birmingham. Most universities will make an offer in the AAA â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ABB range, but this varies from course to course and some will be as high as A*AA. Is there any special advice for Oxbridge applicants? By far the most important aspect to distinguish the very best English applicants is an independent and ambitious engagement with language and thinking well beyond the requirements of the A-Level course. You will also be required to sit an entrance exam, which will be one of the MLAT options. If you are interested in a course that includes creative writing as an option, you should have a diverse range of writing in a variety of genres. What is important for my personal statement or interview? The crucial factor will be your ability to show that you are genuinely interested in the study of English Language at degree level and have some background reading and research at your disposal. This may be linked to areas of study from you A-level course (power, gender, technology, acquisition, change) but should show that you have an independent, enquiring mind and that you have developed your interest in the subject beyond the syllabus. Do I need to do work experience? There is no requirement to undertake work experience directly relevant to the course. If you are able to find a placement which gives you experience of working in journalism, publishing, advertising or the media/arts â&#x20AC;&#x201C; then this will of course be valuable evidence to show your engagement with the subject outside the curriculum.

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Advice for those intending to study Geography Applications Adviser for Geography: Mr R Cooper Why study Geography? Geography is an ambitious subject that tackles major global issues: inequality, environmental damage, immigration, climate change, urbanism, locational data security. Geography is one of the most relevant courses you could choose to study. Geographers are highly employable. Geography provides you with knowledge and transferable skills which will help you secure a first job and advance you professionally. The subject has one of the lowest graduate unemployment rates. Geographers are generalists. The world needs generalists who can understand how things interrelate, who can understand the consequences of decisions made by specialists in a fast-moving world. Geographers are by definition equally at home focussing on both broad global or regional issues and local conditions. They have to understand relationships between the hard world of science and the soft world of human behaviour. Geographers cross subject boundaries all the time, equally at home looking at the operation of environmental systems as they are studying aspects of Economics or Politics. Their degree will teach them both quantitative analysis, the hard world of statistics, and qualitative analysis, the ability to evaluate and make judgements. They can use modern technology such as surveying equipment, GIS computer programs and analyse satellite imagery. Geographers are team-players, especially during fieldwork. In all careers, and indeed throughout your life, you will need to collaborate, compromise and communicate. Geography prepares you for this. What is Geography like at university? Fun! Geographers are by nature broad minded, sociable people. They are inherently interested in the world around them. They look outwardly, not inwardly. They are interested in practical solutions. They want to know why the world is like it is. They tend to be busy, energetic people and you will traditionally find them involved in everything on the campus. What will you study? The most popular course for students is a straightforward Geography degree. These degrees have compulsory human and physical geography in Year 1, with free choice after that. Many universities have a BA stream and a BSc stream for their straight Geography degrees. Students apply for the stream which suits their preferred area (BA = human) (BSc = physical). But in both streams you usually do physical and human in Year 1. In Year 2 and Year 3 you can specialise, choosing modules such as Political Geography, Cultural Geography, Population Geography, Historical Geography, Marine Geography, Glaciology, Earth Processes or Development Studies. In the Year 3 most courses expect you to complete a dissertation, which is a sophisticated piece of original geographical research. It is worth checking out how the dissertation is set and marked before choosing your university, and what contribution it will make to your degree, as this can differ. Again, choose one which suits you. You will be taught through a combination of compulsory and optional lectures, seminars, which have a specific theme and are pre-prepared, tutorials, which are smaller and usually based around an element of your own work, such as an essay or pace of research, practicals which often involve lab or ICT work, and of course fieldwork which will vary from one day local, to UK, to foreign. You may be assessed by continuous assessment of your work, or more traditional end of year examinations. Another area well worth researching.

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A ‘typical’ Geography degree will look at: • Why our human and physical environments and landscapes appear as they are, how they form and operate, and how they inter-relate at various scales. • How and why patterns of human and physical landscapes differ from place to place. • Why there are differences and inequalities within the human world; especially the economic, social and political causes of inequality and economic development at all scales and in all environments. • The way in which particular places and regions have evolved to become distinctive. • Stability and instability in both human and physical worlds, including the causes, rates and patterns of change and the prediction of change to the foreseeable future. • How the world operates as one integrated system – environmentally, politically and economically. Skills you will develop: • Geography is both a social and an environmental science, so you can expect your degree to teach you many elements of statistics, quantitative analysis, and related computer-based techniques including GIS. The need to collect data means that a Geography course will teach you how to use a range of survey equipment, as well as how to manipulate remote sensing material such as aerial photographs and satellite imagery. • Intellectual skills, especially the ability to evaluate evidence in order to make informed decisions and develop reasoned arguments • Research skills, using a wide range of methods to collect and analyse both spatial and environmental data • And of course key transferable skills, such as teamwork, problem solving, IT skills and communication skills (presentation, writing, debating). Can I study Geography with another subject as a Joint Honours? As well as BA or BSc Single Honours Geography, the subject can also be studied as a Joint Honours course with a wide range of other subjects. Some may be related, such as Geography and Geology, or Geography and Development Studies. Others may be less obviously related, such as Geography and a Modern Language, or Geography and Economics. Advantages: Broad understanding; you can study two of your favourite subjects. Disadvantages: Two faculties, two sets of friends, two different demands can be confusing, more work than Single Honours, more exams. Some universities will also offer courses in specialist areas of the subject including: Physical Geography, Human Geography, Marine Geography, Environmental Geography, Development Geography, Population Studies, and so on. Advantages: Specialised, suits your exact requirements, easier to get on the course as may be less competitive. Disadvantages: May be limiting, narrow, not understood by an employer. There are also alternatives to a straight Geography degree, include Earth Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Politics and International Relations, American Studies, African Studies, Middle Eastern Studies. Land Economy, for example, is a subject which combines an interest in the built environment, with Politics and Economics. Which are the best universities for Geography? The UK is the best place in the world to study Geography. Geography as an academic discipline was effectively created in the UK and as a result the wealth of knowledge in all Russell Group Universities is similarly excellent. The grades offered for BA and BSc Geography at Russell Group Universities range from A*AA to AAB. The difference is more commonly due to the popularity of the university rather than the quality of the course. In other words, it is possible to go for a less ‘popular’ university and have a lower grade offer for an equally good course. The RGS (Royal Geographical Society) provides a great starting point for researching Geography degrees: https://www.rgs.org/geography/studying-geography-and-careers/geography-at-university/choosing-ageography-course-at-university/ January 2019 Page | 90

Also look at #choosegeography Which careers can I enter with Geography? In simple terms Geography graduates enter one of three career paths: 1)

A career position directly related to their geographical knowledge and skills. Examples: town and transport planning, chartered surveying, land and water management, sustainability, environmental consultancy, development, tourism, conservation, demography, housing and social welfare. At some point these careers will require further qualifications leading, for example, to chartered status, and many will offer you the opportunity to do this whilst you are working.

A career position which uses a geographers' wide range of transferable skills. The majority of geographers choose these. The list is endless, and graduates from other disciplines will also be competing with you, but geographers are well placed. These careers include finance, accountancy, law, business management, information technology, administration and management, marketing, transport, manufacturing, most service industries. Most likely entry is through some undergraduate management training scheme. Your career is then up to you.

Further full-time study or training to develop a career in research (Masters or PhD) or teaching (PGCE), or to advanced qualifications for entry into more specialised professions (Masters or PhD).

What do employers look for and what will I have to offer? Employers seek a mixture of skills, qualifications and experience when they recruit graduates. On completing your Geography degree you will be in demand as you will be: • • • •

A good communicator with strong presentation skills An independent researcher Able to work effectively in a team in a variety of roles Good at combining information gathering from a variety of sources with excellent writing skills

So, I want to study Geography, but what should I do between now and my interview...? READ WIDELY: Ask your teacher or Mr Cooper for advice. It does not have to be a book. Articles, journals, websites, blogs, magazines. Look on the Geography corridor. Come into the Geography library (G18). Look at the Geography list on the main school library website. WORK EXPERIENCE & VOLUNTEER: Choose work experience with a geographic theme, such as a chartered surveyor’s firm, the Met Office, a local council or the civil service. Even small-scale participation, such as local conservation work, will make you stand out from other students who claim an interest in the environment. Volunteering for organisations like the National Trust, the British Trust for Conservation Volunteers, The Wetlands Trust are all possibilities. Volunteering also counts for Duke of Edinburgh award. VISIT PLACES: There are many museums, exhibitions, learning centres, community facilities, private organisations, charities and universities within London and Hertfordshire to visit for FREE to get inspired about Geography. Ask Mr Cooper.

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Advice for those intending to study History Applications Adviser for History: Mr A P A Simm Why would I study History at university and how do courses differ? History is the study of mankind through time. It is an analytical discipline which focuses on change. Intellectually it is firmly rooted in a sceptical tradition which takes nothing for granted: examining assumptions, exploring different perspectives and interrogating evidence. History aims to provide students with the intellectual tools to devise and develop their own independent appreciation of the events and processes of the past. Undergraduate degree courses in History are usually three years in length and encourage students to actively engage in exploring and interpreting the past. Most courses offer a general introductory component in the first two years. This is typically followed by opportunities to select a variety of more specialised topics. In many cases, the third year also offers the possibility of writing a dissertation, based on a student’s independent and original research. Courses offered by universities vary enormously. Many will require some study of British History and nearly all offer the option of studying European and World History. In addition, courses in Ancient, Medieval, Early Modern, Modern and Contemporary History are available. Typically, A Level courses are concerned with Political and International History, in which political leaders and the state plays the leading role. While undergraduate courses will offer students scope to study similar types of history, there is also a much wider choice of ‘histories’, including Cultural, Economic, Intellectual, Military and Social History. All History courses will involve students in extensive and self-directed reading. They will need to be able to select and organise a large body of material. Typically, the form in which students will present their responses to questions is the essay, which will require the presentation of clearly focused, logically structured, well supported and sustained arguments. A wide variety of Joint Honours courses are available: History and Politics, History and Economics, History and a Language. Many courses are modular and enable students to combine a variety of different modules. There are also courses, such as American Studies, International Relations and War Studies, which can comprise a sizeable History component. What are the typical entry requirements? History is one of the most competitive courses and the entry requirements reflect the demand for places. A*AA Cambridge (A* in any of A Level, unless specified) Durham (A* in History) King’s College London (plus an AS Level B) A*AA-AAA UCL Bristol A*AA-AAB Exeter AAA Edinburgh (unless contextual factors apply) Glasgow Leeds (A in History, if taken) Liverpool LSE (V146) Nottingham Oxford January 2019 Page | 92

Sheffield York (or Classics A Level) Warwick (including A in History, plus an AS Level C) AAA-AAB Manchester (A in History) Newcastle (A in History) AAB Birmingham (A in History) Cardiff Goldsmiths(V101) Lancaster Leicester Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) (V101) (A in History) Royal Holloway Southampton (A in History) St Andrews Sussex University of East Anglia (UEA) Are there any essential or recommended AS or A Levels? Many universities do expect that applicants have studied History at AS and A Level. More important than specific AS and A Levels is an ability to convey an enjoyment of reading, a facility for using language to express complex ideas clearly and the capacity for independent critical and logical thought. Which are the best universities for History? The most competitive UK universities are Cambridge, Oxford, Durham, Bristol, London (King’s and UCL). However, all of the Russell Group Universities (which receive the lion’s share of research funding) have excellent History Departments. Some History Departments have particular specialisms, but these can change with faculty personnel and the most up to date information can be found on faculty websites. Some universities have particular collections of documents and materials, such as Churchill College, Cambridge which has the Churchill and Thatcher archives. Other Universities have specialist research institutes. At Southampton there is the Centre for Medieval and Renaissance Culture and the Parkes Institute for the study of Jewish and nonJewish Relations and at Exeter, the Wellcome Trust has funded a Centre for Medical History. Is there any special advice for students intending to apply to Oxbridge? There is fierce competition for places to read History at Oxbridge. Both Cambridge and Oxford require prospective candidates to attend an interview. While formerly Oxford Colleges sought to interview nearly all applicants, the number of applicants has grown so large, that the numbers being called for interview has fallen to c. 70%. Candidates applying for Oxford must sit the History Aptitude Test (HAT). This is marked by individual colleges and may play a role in determining which applicants are not called for interview. Oxford Colleges emphasise the importance they attach to the interview. The basic offer at Oxford is currently AAA. Cambridge Colleges continue to interview nearly all applicants. With the introduction of reformed AS and A Levels, Cambridge is less able than in the past to rely upon AS Level exam scores to discriminate between applicants. Cambridge sets a written admissions test for all History applicants. This, alongside candidates’ submitted work, their public exam qualifications and their performance at interview, will determine whether or not offers are made. The basic offer for Cambridge Colleges is A*AA. The A* is usually required in any of the applicant’s A Level subjects. January 2019 Page | 93

Both Universities will ask those called for interview to send up examples of marked pieces of work. Reading around and beyond the A Level course is the best way in which prospective applicants can demonstrate their passion for the subject and prepare for their application. Oxbridge Extension classes are mandatory for students applying for Oxbridge. What is important for my personal statement or interview? It is essential to communicate a passion for the subject. In compiling a personal statement, it is important to avoid cliché, or using quotes defining History as a discipline. You should also avoid listing, or describing the content of the books you have read, or the topics you have covered. Far more important is focusing on those questions, or issues, that your reading has raised. Explain why topics have galvanised your interest. Do I need work experience? No. What jobs can I do with History? History is the quintessential ‘generalist’ subject. From an employer’s perspective, the analytical skills, ability to assimilate, organise and select material and present ideas and argument clearly and concisely makes History one of the most highly regarded, and useful, degree subjects. History is particularly valued in professions like Law, Accountancy, Business, Management and the Civil Service. http://www.myheplus.com/subjects/history http://www.guardian.co.uk/money/2010/jan/16/history-degree-careers http://www.alec.co.uk/free-career-assessment/careers-with-a-history-degree-or-history-major.htm http://www.telegraph.co.uk/education/universityeducation/degree-courses/8559865/History-degreecourse-guide.html https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/history-teaches-you-how-to-run-the-country-7nsz3xrns

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Advice for those intending to study Law Applications Adviser for Law: Mr A Lawrence What would I study and how do courses differ? The most common reason for reading Law is that you are thinking of becoming a solicitor or barrister. A Law degree provides an excellent foundation of legal knowledge that will stand you in good stead as a lawyer. Nonetheless, you do not have to do an undergraduate Law degree to be a lawyer. You may ‘convert’ from a good first degree in another subject through professional examinations (Graduate Diploma in Law). However, the three or four years reading at degree level provides the chance of a more thoughtful and grounded introduction to the way the law works. It is slightly more costly to convert since you will have to take the first part of the professional examinations which are covered by a Law degree. An alternative for those who do not wish to spend three years reading Law and would prefer a shorter route through their professional qualifications is to look for a Joint Honours degree where you study Law with one other subject. The university website should advise, but do check that the options offer a combination that exempts you from the first part of the professional examinations. What are typical entry requirements? The first thing you must do if you wish to apply for Law is check whether or not your university of choice requires the LNAT (the Law Admissions Test - http://www.lnat.ac.uk/) in addition to ‘A’ levels. For example, Oxford, Nottingham, Bristol, Durham, Kings London and UCL demand the LNAT, but Cambridge and LSE do not. For information on the LNAT you should research their informative website (see below). Here, you will be advised of when registration for the test opens (usually late August/early September) and those universities which require and access practice papers. The entry requirements for a degree course in Law are rising. Currently, the more competitive universities, such as Cambridge, Oxford, Durham and UCL, require A*AA-AAA at A Level. Entry requirements for other Russell group universities typically require at least AAA. You should check the entry requirements for a particular Law course by visiting the university’s website (e.g. http://www.nottingham.ac.uk/ugstudy/courses/law/llb-law.aspx). Are there any essential or recommended AS or A Levels? A levels which demonstrate your powers of analysis and argument, excellent writing skills, the ability to read and absorb a quantity of reading material at one sitting, and strong skills of reason are recommended. Subjects such as Theology, Philosophy, English and History are ideal. However, Modern Languages are also useful, and especially if you intend to practise Law. A second language is extremely useful to a lawyer. Economics, Maths and even a Science will also serve you well since they suggest vital skills of logic, calculation and analysis. A good combination is vital, however. Seek guidance here in School. Which are the best universities for Law? Cambridge, Oxford, Durham, UCL and LSE are particularly competitive. Make sure you research your degree course since the character of the degree course at Oxford, for example, is very different to that at Cambridge and UCL. In addition, you should research all degree courses carefully since the modules offered, in addition to those compulsory to the practice of Law, will vary from university to university. Some will offer Joint Honours with French or Spanish Law, for example. Is there any special advice for Oxbridge applicants? The LNAT is required by Oxford but not Cambridge. The Cambridge Law Test is designed and used by most of the Cambridge Colleges. - See more at: http://ba.law.cam.ac.uk/applying/cambridge_law_test/ What is important for my personal statement or interview? Admissions tutors will need evidence of a genuine interest in the Law and one that has not just started a few weeks before the writing of your personal statement. Below is a reading list and it is strongly recommended you start relevant reading in Lower Sixth, but the really serious student will start earlier. You need to show intelligent thought over your reading and a questioning mind. Keep your eyes and ears open for stories that involve issues of Law in the media. Be prepared to discuss these and your reading in January 2019 Page | 95

your personal statement, and in a way that shows intelligent analysis of points of Law you will have encountered. Be careful of stating your opinion about any point of law. Remember to show, always, a questioning mind and one that is ready to look at a case from many different angles. Your personal statement should make reference to relevant work experience, including your interest in a particular aspect of your experience of the Law. Remember that your personal statement will be referred to in any interview (if relevant). Make sure you are very confident about the areas of Law and reading to which you refer. Court visits (e.g. the Royal Courts of Justice) are highly recommended. Suggested reading list: Law and Modern Society - P S Atiyah, Oxford, 1995 Learning the Law - Glanville Williams and A T H Smith, Sweet and Maxwell, 2010 The Law Machine - Marcel Berlins and Clare Dyer, Penguin, 2000 Getting into Law - Carl Lygo, Trotman, 2010 The Rule of Law - Tom Bingham (Seniro Law Lord, Lord Bingham) What About Law? - Barnard, Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Sullivan and Virgo Letters to a Law Student: A Guide to Studying Law at University - Nicholas J McBride Do I need to do work experience? Yes. If you are not interested in work experience in a legal environment you should ask yourself if you really want to read Law. Which jobs can I do with Law? A degree in Law goes much further than preparing you for a career as a barrister or solicitor. A degree in Law is ideally suited for Banking, Accountancy, Business, Industrial and commercial Management, Teaching/Lecturing, Local Government and the Civil Service. In addition, many Journalists and Politicians have a degree in Law. Additional information http://www.venables.co.uk/students.htm; a very comprehensive website which is aimed at students and practising lawyers. There are downloadable (free) case notes and excellent articles which cover an enormous range: from an introduction to the English Legal System, to lectures on e.g. Internet and Criminal Law; it has links to many other valuable websites including an excellent link to Insite Law Magazine which contains daily online Law news and Law blogs.

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Advice for those intending to study Mathematics Applications Adviser for Mathematics: Mr B Brown What would I study and how do courses differ? Mathematics at degree level covers Pure and Applied Maths, Statistics, Computing, Analysis and Applications. All students follow broadly the same programme for the first year and then in subsequent years tailor their degree according to their own interests. Most courses will cover analysis, algebra and geometry in their first year; however, this will be very different from algebra and geometry at A level. You are greatly urged to research some first-year material before committing to a Mathematics Degree. There are many related degrees that can be studied, such as Actuarial Maths, Philosophy of Maths, Statistics, Applied Maths, Computing Maths, Environmental Maths and many more. There are also many Joint Honours Degrees, even Maths with a foreign language. You must do your own research by looking at the individual university websites for details as well as www.ucas.ac.uk where there is a very useful tool called Course Search which gives a great deal of information on courses. www.thecompleteuniversityguide.co.uk is an interactive site where you can highlight your requirements and create your own unique guide. https://unistats.direct.gov.uk contains statistics and reports about students’ views on the quality of teaching at different universities. What are the typical entry requirements? IGCSE Maths and English are obviously required. Highly competitive universities will often demand A*A*A with the two A*s in Maths and Further Maths. Warwick, Imperial, Bristol and Bath have been known to ask for STEP qualification as well. See www.admissionstests.cambridgeassessment.org.uk/adt/step for more information. Warwick normally asks for STEP 1 or AEA in Maths. There are plenty of good universities which offer Maths. There are some which will not ask for Further Maths (FM) and the offer could be as low as BBC. Do your research. Are there any essential or recommended AS or A Levels? At highly competitive universities, it is expected that a student from Haberdashers’ will be able to offer Maths and Further Maths as two separate A Levels. It is important to realise that if a university says, “FM is recommended” then it really means, “if your school offers FM, then you must take it”. You must speak to your Maths teacher/ Head of Maths to ask about your suitability to study FM. There are some universities which do not require FM. Go to www.ucas.ac.uk for precise entry requirements. Which are the best universities for Mathematics? Go to www.thecompleteuniversityguide.co.uk to find the top ranked universities for Maths. Currently they are Cambridge, Oxford, Imperial, Warwick and Durham. However, the top ranked universities may not necessarily be the most suitable for you. You must do your research; visit them on special Open Days and so on. Do you like a Campus or a City University? Does their course content appeal to you? There are lots of factors involved – think about all of them. Is there any special advice for Oxbridge applicants? Cambridge will normally require a ‘1’ in Step Papers 2 and 3. Only exceptionally able students should apply (typically those in the top part of Set 1). You would have a number of A*s at GCSE, strong AS Module results (typically above 95 % in mathematics) and would be predicted to achieve very high marks in A2 and STEP papers. You are able to tackle challenging, ‘off syllabus’ topics and read widely around the subject. Students who meet most of these criteria will be invited to an interview. The Cambridge Maths course is extremely theoretical and abstract. THE COMPETITION TO READ MATHS AT CAMBRIDGE IS FIERCE. January 2019 Page | 97

Oxford has its own Admissions Test, usually in November of U6. Much the same goes for Oxford, except that the Admissions Test result will determine which students are interviewed. Oxford offers a 3-year course leading to BA in Mathematical Sciences and a 4-year course leading to MMath in Mathematics. What is important for my personal statement or interview? You have to demonstrate a real passion for Mathematics. Questions asked in interviews are mostly all on Mathematics and are designed to test creative thinking in problem solving and aptitude for understanding new ideas. Interview practice is vital and you must speak to the Head of Maths about this. Do I need to do work experience? It is not a requirement for this academic subject, but if you have done any relevant work in a topic that interests and enhances your subject knowledge then write about it. Which jobs can I do with Mathematics? Graduates can be found throughout industry, business and commerce, the public and private sectors, with large employers and in small organisations. Employers value the intellectual ability, rigour and reasoning skills that mathematics students have acquired, their familiarity with numerical and symbolic thinking, and their analytic approach to problem-solving. In virtually all areas of life-Science, Industry and Commerce, Community, Design, Engineering, Manufacturing and Finance- in fact just about anywhere you can think of, Mathematics is a skill that is highly valued. Additional information More Mathematics related information can be found at: http://nrich.maths.org/public/ http://www.lms.ac.uk/

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Advice for those intending to study Medical Science Applications Adviser for Medicine: Dr R Randall What would I study and how do courses differ? The structure of all Medical courses is similar: most schools offer two years of Pre-Clinical studies then three years of Clinical. However, there are different approaches: PBL (problem based learning) courses which focus on the student to demonstrate self-motivation and proactive, self-directed learning, integrated courses which teach basic Medical Sciences alongside clinical studies, and traditional courses which offer lecture-based learning. There are intercalated degrees which give you the opportunity to incorporate a further degree (BSc or BA). You may want to take an elective, usually a two month period when you might work in a hospital abroad. You may wish to study e.g. Biomedical Sciences and then apply for Medicine as a postgraduate. Which is the best Medical School? There are oversubscribed Medical Schools and vastly oversubscribed Medical Schools. The latter do not necessarily constitute the best! UCL and Imperial are popular with our students because they are in London and because students think they offer the best teaching and placements in the best hospitals. This is not necessarily the case. The best Medical School is the best one for you! First choose the course you want. Then think location (London or not?), campus or not, traditional or modern, large or small, facilities and accommodation. Then consider what else is on offer, sports etc., which you already do/would like to take up. What are the typical entry requirements? Initial Screening This process takes place in most Medical Schools before your application is passed to the Admissions’ Tutor. To succeed in this first stage candidates from a selective school such as Haberdashers’ should aim to achieve GCSE grades above the requirement quoted in the admissions literature. Overall GCSE grades are often scored, so you should try to achieve A and A*s in all subjects if you are to be hopeful of passing through initial screening. Our experience shows that even one B grade can affect your application. If you are uncertain about your position, you must telephone the Admissions’ Tutor. General statements on the website are not necessarily true for an individual. Do your research. GCSE/IGCSE Subject Choice You must take Chemistry and Biology and we strongly recommend Physics to IGCSE and that you must achieve an A* in these subjects. Whilst Physics may not be quoted as a requirement by every Medical School, it is essential at some (e.g. Nottingham), and there is an increasing reliance on technology for diagnosis. This makes Physics very desirable for potential Medical Scientists. IGCSE Physics is also required knowledge for those who wish to apply to one of the schools which require the BMAT (see below). You must consult your Science Teachers before you make your option choices to check that you are capable of achieving an A* in these subjects, and of continuing to A Level. You must check the course requirements before you apply. For some courses you are also expected to achieve a high grade in English Language. Do your research. A Level Subject Choice We recommend all candidates from Haberdashers’ offer Chemistry and Biology to A Level. Most Medical Schools require two Sciences at A level. If you research you may find a school whose requirements are less demanding, but remember that if you have difficulty with a science now you are not going to cope at Medical School. Furthermore, questions are going to be asked as to why you did not continue a science to AS/A Level at a school such as Haberdashers. You must read the MPW guide “Getting into Medical School 2017” ISBN 978-1911067054. You should also consult the Medical School’s prospectus and website and ring the Admissions Tutor for precise information at the time of application. Maths Maths and Further Maths will only count as one subject. Candidates taking Double Maths may not be able to demonstrate sufficient breadth of skills within their A Level studies. This does not rule out Double Maths, January 2019 Page | 99

but such candidates will need to convince selectors that they also have the right personal skills and qualities through voluntary work and other school activities. Do your research. Keeping a Humanity Recent years have seen a significant shift in recruitment. Medical Schools are moving away from candidates with a strong scientific/Maths background and are looking at those who can offer more broadly based A Levels, and who can demonstrate good inter-personal skills. We strongly encourage you to broaden your choice by including at least one academic non-Science subject to AS Level, i.e. Geography, History, RS, a Modern Foreign Language or English. We suggest you check the requirements of the Medical Schools as these requirements are subject to change. Many Habs’ students have found the study of T&P to AS/A Level useful for ethical debate, particularly in the BMAT test. Many Haberdashers’ students apply to UCL which positively encourages candidates to offer a Humanity as the third A Level. See their website. AS Level Results You must gain the highest marks you can in the AS examinations. A very high equivalent grade A average across your subjects will be needed for us to make strong A Level predictions, i.e. A*. The school will quote exceptional AS marks in the academic reference. As many schools do not offer the option of taking AS Level in the new linear A Level examinations, many universities will not use your AS grade as part of their selection process. However, they will be used as the basis of your predictions, which will be used to process your application. Do your research. Poor AS grades might mean you have to rethink, study Bio Med Sciences, for example, then think about applying for Medicine either as post graduate or as an undergraduate. A Level Results. For recent entry, applicants have needed AAA, A*AA or even A*A*A at A Level (see below for Oxbridge info). These requirements may rise yet again for Sept 2020 entry. Are there supplementary tests I need to take? Biomedical Admissions Test (BMAT) Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial and UCL, amongst others, require applicants to sit the Biomedical Admissions Test, the BMAT. You are advised to read the test specifications which are posted on the website: www.bmat.org.uk. Do not underestimate how difficult it is to complete this test in the allotted time. You will need to know and understand IGCSE Chemistry, Biology, Physics and Maths and be able to apply your knowledge in an imaginative way. For help with the preparation of this test buy a copy of “How to do the BMAT”, an MPW publication. This test is set nationally on two days only, in the September and November of your Upper Sixth Year. The November BMAT is sat here in school, but for the September date you will need to take the BMAT externally and arrange yourself. There is guidance for the BMAT here in school in the second half of the Lower Sixth in Enhancement lessons. UKCAT Test Most Medical Schools require candidates to take the UK Clinical Aptitude Test, the UKCAT. Further information is available on the website www.ukcat.ac.uk This test is aimed at assessing your aptitude and personality rather than academic achievement and scientific knowledge. You take this in the Summer between Lower and Upper Sixth at a centre near you (as you would the driving test Theory Paper/Grade 5 Music Theory), between July and the beginning of the Autumn Term. The Medic Portal is an organisation who, working with the Royal College of Medicine, offers detailed advice on all stages of applications. Some of this is free and registration on the website is very useful www.themedicportal.com. For the past few years they have delivered an in-house course (not cheap) to advise students on preparation for the UKCAT. They offer similar courses for BMAT and other aspects of the process. Other organisations offer similar courses, KAPLAN being the best known. What is important for my personal statement and interview? Comprehensive advice is provided by Dr Randall to help you write your personal statement. Dr Mistry has been invited to conduct an interview seminar here at Haberdashers’ for the past six years. In addition to this each medical applicant at Haberdashers’ is given at least one individual mock interview by a guest medic.

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VERY IMPORTANT NOTE: When preparing your statement you much access the Medical schoolsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; websites to ensure you cover what they are looking for eg proof of manual dexterity, specified number of work experience weeks, lab work, etc. Personal Qualities You will be called for interview. Admissions Tutors are looking for exceptional personal qualities. School sports teams, Drama, Music, your SCS activity, CCF, Duke of Edinburgh are all excellent ways of allowing you to show that you can make decisions, work as part of a team, take responsibility, be a leader. It is also very important that you gain experience of people in society outside your immediate experience, for example through voluntary work, organised local community schemes, Sunday School, youth groups, or part-time paid employment. Admissions Tutors are looking for genuine interest and commitment on the part of sincere applicants. Professional Experience It is essential that candidates demonstrate their understanding and commitment to the Medical profession. Clinical experience in a GP surgery and hospital is highly desirable if not essential. You need to understand that less glamorous activities, such as working as a long term volunteer at e.g. a riding school for mobility impaired children, the terminally ill, young children, or as a hospital visitor are highly regarded and show your true motivation. You must organise work experience placements well in advance. Selectors are not impressed by candidates who simply do their work placement alongside a family member nor are they impressed by work experience placements that you have done alongside leading experts: a week in the A&E, which you have found for yourself, gives you a much better view of what life as a doctor involves. Is there any special reading I should be doing? Applicants must have a genuine, enthusiastic and informed interest in some of the basic medical conditions that affect the human body. You will also need to be up to date with current political and ethical issues that are affecting the medical profession and the National Health Service. The School Library keeps journals, such as the BMJ, which also has a website, and the daily papers. If Medicine is truly your goal you will be keen to keep up to date with current issues. Is there any special advice for those intending to apply to Oxford or Cambridge? 1. Initial screening at Oxbridge is tough. Medical applicants who are made an offer routinely have an average of 9.9 A* at GCSE. Successful candidates for Medicine also have an average of over 90% in AS modules in three relevant subjects. You will have to provide raw AS scores for the Cambridge SAQ (Cambridgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own entry form). You will also need very high marks in the BMAT. 2. If you are thinking of reading Medicine at Cambridge you will need A*A*A at A Level, including Chemistry and at least one other A Level in Biology, Maths or Physics. Most applicants have at least three science/mathematics A Levels and some Colleges require this and/or particular subjects. Do check individual colleges: although some prefer a specific combination, this is often not openly stated in any literature. Go to open days and do your research thoroughly. 3. For Oxford you will need A*AA at A Level. You will need Chemistry plus one from Biology, Physics or Maths to A Level. You can still therefore offer a non-science subject at A Level. 4. You will need to sit the BMAT for these universities. 5. Emphasis is placed upon how well you apply your scientific knowledge at interview. You have to be knowledgeable, adaptable and teachable. Some very important things to remember: 1 Entering Medicine at a young age is a huge commitment on your part. The course is long and hard. You must honestly and carefully examine your motives for wanting to enter this profession, or you may not last the course. 2 This is a highly competitive field and no path will guarantee success. You must consider a safety net career. On the UCAS form you will be invited to apply for up to four Medical Schools. You will have the option of applying for another course with your fifth choice. Applicants routinely choose Bio Med Science. 3 Be aware that the course requirements quoted above are open to change. It is vital that you read the current prospectuses of your chosen Medical Schools and check the website carefully, contact the admissions tutors to confirm your eligibility before you apply. January 2019 Page | 101

Useful Links Research each Medical School website www.opendays.com www.thetimes.co.uk (good University guide) www.thestudentroom.com www.bmj.com www.bmat.org.uk. www.ukcat.ac.uk www.bma.org.uk www.gmc-uk.org www.rcseng.ac.uk (Royal College of Surgeons) www.ucas.ac.uk www.themedicportal.com

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Advice for those intending to study Modern Languages Applications Adviser for Modern Languages: Mr J C Swallow What would I study and how do courses differ? The so-called "world language", English, is spoken as a first language by just 7% of the world's inhabitants; 75% of people speak no English. Languages are some of the oldest, deepest, most thoughtful human inventions. The study of Modern Languages at university undergraduate level provides opportunities to develop not only linguistic skills but also to explore aspects of Literature, Linguistics, History, Art, Philosophy, Film and Contemporary Society and Politics, to name but a few. It is possible, in most cases, to study just one language or to combine the study of two or more languages. It is also possible to take one language (if already offering one post-A level) ab initio i.e. from scratch. In this way a Languages degree is open to those offering one language at A level or indeed to those offering two or more as well as those who might want to consider learning a new language. Languages degrees are often flexible and can be tailored to the interests of the individual. Most languages courses have a year abroad requirement, which allows the student to spend their third year working or studying in the target language country. It is often possible to split the year between two countries if the student is studying two languages. Are there any essential or recommended AS or A Levels? At least one modern language to A2 Level is essential and a second is highly advisable, depending on the course for which the student is applying. Offering two modern languages is best, even if you do not intend to continue one of them at university. One modern language plus A Level Latin, if this is what you can offer, would demonstrate your linguistic ability. Subjects such as English Literature or other essay subjects can be helpful, but linguists have a range of other subject interests and there is no one typical A level subject profile. Which is the best university for Modern Languages and what are the typical grade requirements? The following are typical choices for Modern Languages applicants: Cambridge A*AA (plus interview) (At Cambridge all linguists begin by studying two languages within the Modern and Medieval Languages Tripos. In later years you can concentrate on one, two or more modern languages. It is possible to study a modern foreign language together with History/ Latin/ Arabic/ Hebrew or Persian. Many students also â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;borrowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; papers from other Tripos subjects such as English, History or Linguistics.) Oxford AAA (plus interview) UCL AAA-ABB Durham AAA Nottingham ABB KCL AAB Bristol AAB-ABB Southampton AAB (sometimes plus interview) It would be advisable, however, to look at university subject league tables such as those published by The Times or The Guardian and to investigate different courses to find the ones which best suit your requirements or interests. It is worth bearing in mind that some less competitive universities are highly rated for Languages. Is there any special advice for Oxbridge applicants? Those considering an Oxbridge application would be well advised to begin their research and preparation early. Reading beyond the A Level course and exploring areas of personal interest is essential as is researching details of the chosen course and college. The importance of independent reading of literary texts, news, cultural and social issues cannot be highlighted enough. A tangible and genuine passion and motivation for studying the chosen languages at both a linguistic and cultural level as well as a clear aptitude for the language is essential. What is important for my personal statement or interview? In addition to the above, time spent in the target language country/ies is extremely beneficial. January 2019 Page | 103

Will I have to study literature? The short answer to this question is that you will undoubtedly study some literature during a Modern Languages degree. Whilst this is something which can seem a daunting prospect, it is essential to bear in mind that this is usually because you will not necessarily have studied a large amount of Literature before embarking upon your university studies. Upper Sixth students do, however, frequently cite the literary material covered at A2 level as the most enjoyable aspect of their final year of studying Languages at school. It is important to remember that the more you read, the more accessible literary texts will become and thus independent reading is an essential part of your preparation for a Modern Languages degree. Do I need to do work experience? Since a Languages degree opens the door to many possible careers, it is not essential to have completed any specific work experience; however, the possibility to undertake a work experience placement abroad or to demonstrate linguistic skills in a work context would only enhance an application. Which jobs can I do with Modern Languages? Languages graduates are very highly sought after in many professional contexts, including Business, Management, Law, Government, Civil Service and Journalism. Indeed, a Modern Languages degree is seen by employers as offering outstanding intellectual training as well as developing communicative and analytical skills. Alternatively a Languages degree could lead to a career in which language skills are essential. Examples include translation, interpreting and teaching and can encompass work within the EU, UN or GCHQ or simply working for a company abroad. Native speakers of English with fluency in one or more other languages are in high demand. Some graduates may choose to continue to a Masters degree or PhD. In essence, studying Languages at university provides the student with a wide variety of transferable skills which can be applied to a correspondingly wide variety of careers. Am I likely to be called for interview? Oxford and Cambridge always interview applicants and require completion of an admissions test (Oxford tests take place in November at School and Cambridge tests at the time of interview). Other universities may interview (Southampton, UCL, KCL). Interviews typically include discussion in both English and the target language. Applicants are often required to submit examples of written work. Is there any particular reading I should do? The ability to demonstrate independent reading and development or pursuit of personal areas of interest beyond the realms of the A level course is highly recommended, whether that be literary, journalistic or linguistic. Useful websites http://www.whystudylanguages.ac.uk/post16 http://www.studyinglanguages.ac.uk/ http://www.thirdyearabroad.com/quick-questions/why-should-i-study-languages.html Related degrees Modern Languages can often be combined with subjects such as English, History, Philosophy, Linguistics, Business, Management and Law. There are many possible combinations available. You should, however, bear in mind that by combining two separate academic disciplines in one degree, you would not be achieving the same depth of study in either discipline as you would be through studying a single discipline.

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Advice for those intending to study Natural Sciences Applications Adviser for Natural Sciences: Mr R J Kingdon What would I study and how do courses differ? There are currently over 14 UK universities offering a course titled Natural Science, of which only 8 are in the Russell Group. You will be signing up for either a 3-year BSc or a 4 year MSci degree. Most universities allow you to change during the course – check individual web sites for detailed information. The MSci is particularly useful if you are interested in a career in research. The structure of the course varies significantly from university to university; some demand that you specialise early e.g. into Biological or Physical Sciences. It is important that you research your course carefully to ensure that you are interested in all of the modules/lecture courses that you will encounter. You need to investigate the subject combinations/streams/routes/pathways for each university. Do you want a year’s work experience as part of your degree? Does the course you are applying for offer this as an option? Adding practical experience to your degree is highly valuable to your career. If you are keen to continue a Language you should also consider this as part of your short-listing process. What are typical entry requirements? Many of the top universities are asking for A*AA. Do not be surprised if they ask for A*A*A! Durham: after the first year of Nat Sci it may be possible to transfer to a Single Honours degree if you decide that is what you want. Because of this, Admissions’ Tutors do not want Nat Sci to be seen as a back door into a Single Honours course. Hence if you are taking Physics based Nat Sci then the entry requirements will be the same as for single honours Physics e.g. A*A in Physics and Maths. If you are taking Further Maths then Tutors require A* in Maths and A in Further Maths. If you have taken AS Further Maths, then A* in Maths and A at AS Level in Further Maths. Birmingham: A*AA. The A* can be in any of the three subjects. Nottingham: A*AA or AAA. Depending on which ‘pathway’ you have chosen. Many universities do not accept UCAS points A*AC is not the same as AAB. The full range of degree course offers can be found by consulting HEAP 2018 in the careers section of the school library. The precise entry requirements can be found by consulting www.ucas.ac.uk and clicking Course Search, or researching individual university websites. Are there any essential or recommended AS or A Levels? Natural Science has become popular in recent years. Two Science subjects and Maths are the commonly preferred A Levels. It really depends on what stream or path you will be following; in some cases Maths A Level may not be a course requirement – you must research university requirements carefully. Cambridge does say that they make offers to students who only have Single Maths, but our experience is that they are looking for students with Further Maths A Level. Which is the best university for Natural Science? When I am asked the question “Do you believe university league tables?” I generally reply “Do you believe in fairies?” The Guardian and Times newspapers both offer books/websites of league tables for different university courses. But it is easy for a university to target and increase its position in these tables and boost its standing amongst its competitors.

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It is important that you research the courses carefully making sure that you are able to select the courses/modules that interest you. The question “What is the best university?” is really asking “What is the best university for XXX student?” and that is up to you! Is there any special advice for Oxbridge applicants? Oxford does not offer a course in Natural Science, preferring to keep to the traditional course titles. They do offer courses in: Biochemistry (Molecular and Cellular), Biological Sciences, Earth Sciences (Geology), Chemistry and Physics. You must consider what is going to help you stand out from the crowd. Cambridge is inundated with students with very high module scores – what will make you special? Work experience and reading books will help. Cambridge colleges ask you to take a test at interview or take the Thinking Skills Assessment which assesses critical thinking and problem-solving skills Cambridge does say that they make offers to students who only have Single Maths, but our experience is that they are looking for students with Further Maths A Level. What is important for my personal statement or interview? “A good personal statement should make it clear why the candidate wants to read their particular subject and supply concrete evidence of that enthusiasm. It should reflect the distinctive style and characteristics of its author” Nicholas Shrimpton Vice-Principal Lady Margaret Hall, Oxford. Your personal statement is an opportunity to tell the university not only why you are interested in Natural Sciences but also why that university should be interested in you; those who can support their application with evidence will stand out, for the right reasons! Universities are looking for applicants who are interested in studying more than one subject throughout their three or four years of undergraduate study. They expect the personal statement to reflect this interest. If in the personal statement an interest is only expressed in a single subject, then such applicants will be less likely to receive an offer. Use language that makes you sound enthusiastic and passionate about Natural Sciences and that you understand how it differs from a Single Honours programmme, and why that is important to you. Bring in personal qualities and achievements to show why you are suited to study at university and why Natural Sciences, in particular, appeals. It is important that you read widely outside your A Level specification. Your reading should demonstrate your enthusiasm and understanding for the subject(s) and help make you stand out from the crowd. Enthusiastic students are also members of a professional society e.g. Institute of Physics, Royal Society of Chemistry and Society of Biology. Outside of school, have you attended talks at universities? Do I need to do work experience? Work experience helps demonstrate to the Admissions Tutors how motivated you are. It gives you a chance to confirm that you know something about the world of work you are about to enter and that you understand where 4 years of study will take you. You should speak to Mrs Nash in the Careers Office about what she has available (Y11 will take priority) and be prepared to send your own CV with a covering letter to employers. Nuffield Foundation Science Bursaries offer extended work placements (4-6 weeks) and money towards travel costs. http://www.nuffieldfoundation.org/science-bursaries-schools-and-colleges Headstart courses offer a very wide range of courses at different universities and are considered a worthwhile way of gaining an insight into what you will be doing at university. http://www.etrust.org.uk/headstart.cfm January 2019 Page | 106

The Year in Industry (YINI) organisation offer help in finding gap year employers. http://www.etrust.org.uk/year_in_industry.cfm Which jobs can I do with Natural Sciences? Many employers prefer the advantages of a diverse multidisciplinary Science degree. Because of the way in which the Natural Sciences programme is structured you will be used to making connections between different areas of Science, this is an important skill in the modern workplace. By combining more than one area of study you will graduate with a greater breadth of subject knowledge than Single Honours students. Natural Sciences graduates have the potential to enter a variety of careers including: Technical Consultancy; Industrial Research; Science and Mathematics Teaching; IT support; Scientific Journalism; Accountancy and Finance; Management Consultancy; Community Work and Industrial Law. Many graduates also choose to take their studies further, to Masters or PhD level. For many jobs the skills you have developed are more important than the content of your degree and a Natural Science degree will enable you to have developed a wealth of skills. These include: • • • •

Ability to research, evaluate, critically interpret and analyse information Communication in written, verbal and presentational forms Ability to work methodically and accurately Decision making and ability to self-manage

Imperial (Physics Chemistry) have an excellent graduate destinations website http://www.imperial.ac.uk/careers/exploring-your-options/destinations/ Durham University has an excellent webpage on career options and employability http://www.dur.ac.uk/natural.sciences/prospective/careers/ Am I likely to be called for interview? For Cambridge you can expect two demanding interviews as well as the college testing procedure. Bath: Generally, applicants are not interviewed. Nottingham University say: “Offers to school-leavers are usually made without an interview, but all successful candidates will be invited to the UCAS visit days when they receive their offer. The aim of the visit is for you to ensure that you will be entering an institution that meets your needs and aspirations.” Durham: At present say they do not interview. For Chemistry preparation tackle problems on the Cambridge challenge website http://www.c3l6.org/ Physics: have a look at the many ‘problem solving’ books in the library. Websites: Do the problems on the https://isaacphysics.org/ and http://i-want-to-study-engineering.org/. Physics/Chemistry Olympiad past papers are also good for interview preparation. Deferred entry Nottingham University say: “We are happy to accept applications more than 12 months before the date of admission if you have sensible plans for making use of your gap year, or good reasons for deferring. It is best to apply for your place before you take a year out as you will then know that you have a place waiting for you. If you choose to defer with a gap year then make sure you make good use of this year in your own development.” Is there any particular reading I should do? Your reading should be based on your interests in the subject(s) you are taking and combine with your personal statement to help make you stand out from the crowd. Quoting books from a prescribed reading list may only demonstrate just how dull you are! Best advice is just to start reading and go on from there. The school library has an excellent range of books. Book shops near universities will have a wider range of science books than those in small towns. January 2019 Page | 107

Related degrees The benefit of Nat Sci is that it offers a significant flexibility of study throughout your degree. Hence related degree titles tend to make you specialise earlier. Other degrees might include: Biological Sciences, Biochemistry, Environmental Chemistry and Biomedical Physics. See the UCAS website for a detailed listing.

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Advice for those intending to study Philosophy Applications Adviser for Philosophy: Dr J Green What would I study and how do courses differ? Why should I be governed and what is the best political structure? Is something good because we think it is good, or do we think it is good because it is? Can we talk meaningfully about God and things of which we cannot have any empirically experience? What is a good argument? Is knowledge a justified true belief? In order for us to know something, must we also necessarily know that we know it? Is there a difference between the mind and the brain? Do the theories of the natural sciences get closer and closer to uncovering the truth, or is there no mind-independent truth to be uncovered? What is the relationship between language and the world? What is the relationship between the perceiver and the perceived? How do we know that we are not in the Matrix? What is justice? Philosophy asks a legion of questions which are most often pigeonholed into the disciplines of: Epistemology, Metaphysics, Ethics, and Logic The arguments of past philosophers will form a point of entry into most philosophical problems and you can be expected to read at least one ancient philosopher (Plato or Aristotle) along with Descartes, Locke, Hume, and Kant during your first years, in which The History of Philosophy will form part of the core syllabus. Questions of how language and reality hang together are often raised in the second or third year and you can be expected to read some Russell or Wittgenstein. Many students study Philosophy as part of a Joint Honours degree together with a very wide range of other subjects such as Economics, Politics (see the entry on PPE), Mathematics, French, German, Italian, Classics, War Studies, Physics, Computer Science, History of Art, Linguistics, Management, and Psychology (this list is not exhaustive). Different universities offer different Joint Honours courses and it is worth spending some time researching which universities do exactly what if you are interested in a Joint Honours degree with Philosophy as a component. Both LSE and UCL offer a very attractive BSc in Economics and Philosophy. Oxford, unlike Cambridge, offers Philosophy only as part of a Joint Honours programme. If you do a Single Honours degree in Philosophy, you will gain a BA, but if you do Philosophy as part of a degree where Science forms a substantial part, you might gain a BSc. What are the typical entry requirements? Entry requirement for UCL, KCL, Bristol, and Durham is AAA. Cambridge requires A*AA. Oxford requires AAA. Warwick, Nottingham, and Birmingham typically want AAB. Manchester and Leeds require ABB. Are there any essential or recommended AS or A Levels? In short “no!” However, you need to demonstrate an interest in and understanding of philosophical problems, so studying Philosophy at AS or A2 Level might in that respect be advantageous. Furthermore, if you wish to do a joint degree there will typically be specific subject requirements (i.e. if you wish to study Philosophy and Mathematics you will be required to have studied Mathematics to A Level) Which are the best universities for Philosophy? The most competitive UK universities are Cambridge, Oxford, KCL, UCL, Bristol, Warwick, and Durham, but that is not to say that you could not get as “good” a degree from York, Leeds, Sheffield, Birkbeck, or Reading. It is worth having a look at the website below which reflects how the international academic community rank the various universities (scroll down for the UK): http://www.philosophicalgourmet.com/overall.asp January 2019 Page | 109

Is there any special advice for Oxbridge applicants? As stated above, Cambridge offers a Single Honours BA degree in Philosophy whereas Oxford offers Philosophy as part of a Joint Honours degree only. Both universities are fiercely competitive and you will need to demonstrate interest, engagement, and aptitude for the subject. This typically means that you will need to read and analyse philosophical books independently (see below). For Oxford, you will need to sit the TSA – the Thinking Skills Assessment – for PPE (Philosophy, Politics, & Economics), Psychology & Philosophy, and Philosophy & Linguistics. You do not need to take the TSA for Cambridge Single Honours Philosophy. See your Applications Adviser for a reading list. What is important for my personal statement or interview? You will need to demonstrate interest, engagement, and aptitude for the subject. This typically means that you will need to read and analyse philosophical books independently and include a discussion of what you have read in your personal statement. It is not enough to tell the Admissions Tutor what you have read. You will need to demonstrate your skill by showing the Admissions Tutor what you have got out of reading the books. In effect, you will need to assess a given line of thought or an argument, and be ready to reflect on it in the interview. Do I need work experience? You do not need work experience for Single Honours Philosophy. Which jobs can I do with Philosophy? Universities have become better at publishing what their graduates do. UCL reports that “Many recent Philosophy graduates have excelled in the legal profession, training as both solicitors and barristers, while others have entered publishing, journalism, the Civil Service and local government. Philosophy graduates are also sought after as programmers and systems analysts. A high proportion of students go on to further study in Philosophy, both in this country and overseas. Notable graduates of the department include Jonathan Dimbleby, novelist Ken Follett and comedian Ricky Gervais.” Additional information: http://www.open.ac.uk/Arts/philosophy/whatis.shtml http://aap.org.au/resources/video.html http://www.philosophynews.com/post/2011/08/25/What-is-Philosophy.aspx http://www.qcc.cuny.edu/socialsciences/ppecorino/intro_text/Chapter%2012Conclusion/What_is_Philos ophy.htm

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Advice for those intending to study PPE Applications Adviser for Philosophy, Politics and Economics – Dr J Green What would I study and how do courses differ? The degree of Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE) is a fiercely competitive Joint Honours degree providing an exciting possibility of exploring the three subjects in all their connections and depth. Historically, the three subjects are inextricably linked with Economics, for instance, being an offspring of Moral Philosophy, and Politics having been informed in theory and in practice by Political Philosophy and Political Philosophers such as John Stuart Mill and Karl Marx PPE has traditionally been a degree read by those seeking a career in politics, public life (including senior positions in Her Majesty's Civil Service) and journalism. David Cameron, Ed Balls, William Hague, David and Ed Miliband all studied PPE. Indeed, an article published on the BBC (referenced below) begins: ‘In the corridors of power, at the very highest reaches of government, a form of educational freemasonry holds sway. It has nothing to do with Eton College, nor even the Bullingdon Club - both far more commonly-cited lightning rods for resentments about class, privilege and the fast track to power. Instead, the surest ticket to the top - for Conservative, Labour and Lib Dem politicians alike - is surely a degree in politics, philosophy and economics (PPE) at the University of Oxford.’ Politics aside, PPE graduates are eminently employable in a number of other fields. Many graduates go on to top jobs in the City; be it as Bankers, Lawyers or Barristers. PPE at Oxford, which is where the degree originated, serves as a typical example of the content of a PPE course: Year 1: • Philosophy: at least 2 of: general Philosophy; Moral Philosophy; Elementary Formal Logic. • Politics includes the study of current political institutions of Britain, the USA, France and Germany, in light of their recent history and sections on political theories and thinkers and on non-democratic movements. • Economics includes an introduction to Macro- and Micro-Economic Theory; optional study of elementary Mathematical Economics and Statistics. Years • • •

2 and 3: Students may continue with all 3 branches or concentrate on 2 (and even then major in one). Philosophy core: History of Philosophy from Descartes to Kant; ethics. Politics core: 2 of: Comparative Government; British politics and Government in the 20th century; Theory of Politics; International Politics since 1945; Political Sociology. • Economics core: Macroeconomics; Microeconomics, Quantitative Economics. Optional subjects are drawn from a wide range.

There are variations of emphasise in the content covered by the different universities so make sure to visit their websites and read the course content. Also note that York University offers two routes through the PPE programme with one of the routes focusing on Statistics and Economics. What are the typical requirements: PPE is a fiercely competitive degree. The requirements for the five most popular universities that offer PPE are as follows: Oxford requires AAA. Warwick and Durham require A*AA. York requires A*AA or AAA including Maths. Manchester requires AAB.

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It should be noted that Oxford University places a very large premium on the ‘Thinking Skills Assessment (TSA)’. It is unlikely that one will be considered for an interview if they do not score highly enough on this paper (see below). Are there any essential or recommended AS or A Levels? There is a slight difference between the universities. As a rule, you should take Maths at A Level. Even though the university might not formally require you to do it, it could still disadvantage you if you do not take Maths. Also, if you haven’t taken Maths you might struggle with some of the Economics modules. Durham advises its students that “Applicants for PPE should note that the selectors prefer to see a range of A-Level subjects that include an Arts or Humanities subject, in addition to science subjects to provide an adequate background for all the different skills required to cope with three so different subjects as PPE at university Level. You will need an A-grade in A Level Maths. Candidates who study Further Maths are expected to offer a minimum of four subjects (to include Maths) at A2 Level.” Following Durham’s advice will also stand you in good stead with the other universities. None of the universities require you to have studied Philosophy, Politics or Economics at AS or A Level. However, you will be asked to demonstrate an interest and aptitude for each of the three subjects, and for that reason taking at least one or more of the subjects at AS or A Level would be very helpful. Which are the best universities for PPE? Oxford, Warwick, Durham, York, Manchester and Exeter all have well established PPE courses. From 2015, LSE has started to offer a 4 year PPE course. See the following links: http://www.lse.ac.uk/newsAndMedia/news/archives/2014/09/PPE-degree.aspx http://www.lse.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/degreeProgrammes2015/philosophyLogicAndScientificMetho d/L0V0_BSc_PPE.aspx King’s College London (KCL) and University College London (UCL) have followed suit and are also offering PPE from 2015: http://www.kcl.ac.uk/prospectus/undergraduate/philosophy-politics-and-economics http://www.ucl.ac.uk/prospective-students/undergraduate/degrees/ubsppesing05 You can also study PPE at Exeter University, Royal Holloway, University of Essex, Lancaster University, University of East Anglia, Stirling University, and University of Hull. If you drop one of the subjects and want to study Philosophy and Politics, Philosophy and Economics, or Politics and Economics, you will find that most of the Russell Group Universities will offer one or more of those courses as a Joint Honours degree. Is there any special advice for Oxbridge applicants? For Oxford, you will need to take the TSA – the Thinking Skills Assessment. This is a test comprised of two parts. The first section contains elements of both critical thinking and problem solving, whilst the second is a thirty minute short essay on an unseen topic. The University places a very heavy emphasis on scores in the first section and the test largely informs the selection procedure. Cambridge does not offer PPE. There is, however, some overlap between HSPS, which Cambridge does offer, and PPE. However it would be wrong to say that HSPS is Cambridge’s version of PPE. What is important for my personal statement or interview? You will need to demonstrate interest, engagement, and aptitude for the subjects. This typically means that you will need to read and analyse relevant articles or books independently and include a discussion of what you have read in your personal statement. It is not enough to tell the Admissions Tutor what you have read. Your personal statement must attempt to give a well-structured analysis and discussion of one or more central topic(s). January 2019 Page | 112

Do I need work experience? Work experience is not required – but if you could gain some work experience that is relevant for Philosophy (e.g. shadowing a university professor), Politics (e.g. working for an MP), and/or Economics (e.g. working for a think-tank) it would help to make you stand out. Which jobs can I do with PPE? Universities have become better at publishing what their graduates do. Durham reports that: recent PPE graduates have found success in a range of careers, including: Law, Banking and Finance; and Government, in companies such as: • BT • Department of Works and Pensions • Deutsche Bank • EDF Energy • Fallon UK Ltd • Goldman Sachs International • Government Olympic Committee • HSBC • IP Recruitment • KPMG • PricewaterhouseCoopers • Royal Navy • The Roundhouse Additional information: Why does PPE rule Britain?: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-11136511

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Advice for those intending to study Politics Applications Adviser for Politics – Mr S Clark What would I study and how do courses differ? Politics is concerned with the study of power, its distribution and how it is exercised. Politics courses at university will offer students an introduction to a range of political concepts. They will consider political institutions and their workings and most offer a comparative dimension, examining different national, supranational and international political systems. Political theory and ideas will be a major part of a number of courses. Most courses last three years. Politics is widely taught in British universities and the best are among the leading departments in the world. Departments take various names: Politics is probably the most common, but some add International Relations or International Studies. A number, as at Essex, the London School of Economics, and Strathclyde, have Departments of Government. Birmingham and Nottingham have Departments of Political Science and International Studies. Cambridge University has a Department of Politics and International Studies. Oxford, Durham, York, Manchester, Royal Holloway and Warwick offer courses in Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE). Cambridge offers an inter-disciplinary course entitled: Human, Social and Political Science (HSPS). Bristol offers Politics with International Relations. Some universities, including Nottingham offer courses in Politics and Economics. Politics can also be studied alongside History or Sociology. http://www.politics.ox.ac.uk/index.php/undergraduate-study/undergraduate-courses.html https://www.hsps.cam.ac.uk/prospective-students http://www.bristol.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/2018/politics-international-relations/bsc-politicsinternational-relations/ http://www.nottingham.ac.uk/ugstudy/courses/politicsandinternationalrelations/politicseconomics.aspx What are the typical entry requirements? The typical offer for places to study Politics at university is AAA or AAB. However, many of the combined courses in Politics and International Relations require AAA. At Oxford the offer for prospective PPE and History and Politics applicants is AAA. At Cambridge (HSPS) and (History and Politics) and Durham (PPE), the grades required are A*AA. International History and Politics at Leeds is AAA. Government or International Relations at the London School of Economics is AAA. Politics at Warwick requires AAB and Politics and International Relations at Reading or Royal Holloway are ABB. Are there any essential or recommended AS or A Levels? For Politics at university, there are no essential AS or A Levels. Some schools do not offer Politics A Level. However, Politics, History, Philosophy or Economics are potentially helpful, given the introduction they provide to political institutions, political ideas, the formulation of public policy and political decision-making processes. If you are applying for PPE at Oxford, you should take Maths at A Level. Even though the university might not formally require you to do it, it would still disadvantage you if you do not take Maths. Oxford University states that History is a “useful background” for PPE. Which are the best universities for Politics? Oxford, Cambridge, London School of Economics, UCL, Bath, Nottingham, St Andrews, Sheffield, Warwick, Durham, York, Essex, Bristol and QML. See the tables below. January 2019 Page | 114

http://www.thecompleteuniversityguide.co.uk/league-tables/rankings?s=Politics http://politics.guardian.co.uk/studentpolitics/table/0,,580606,00.html Is there any special advice for Oxbridge applicants? Politics courses at both Oxford and Cambridge are inter-disciplinary and fiercely competitive. The expectations for reading and essay writing are extremely high indeed. Read the university and college websites carefully. HSPS (Cambridge) http://www.hsps.cam.ac.uk/prospective-students/entry-requirements History and Politics (Cambridge) http://www.undergraduate.study.cam.ac.uk/courses/history-andpolitics History and Politics (Oxford) http://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/undergraduate_courses/courses/history_and_politics/history_and_poli tics.html PPE (Oxford) http://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/undergraduate_courses/courses/philosophy_politics_and_economics/p hilosophy_politics.html What is important for my personal statement or interview? It is essential that you demonstrate your passion for Politics. Try to also communicate your engagement with the subject through understanding of contemporary political issues, together with an ability to relate these to broader political ideas and developments. It would be valuable to explain areas of personal interest and examples of independent research. You should also indicate your reading of both seminal texts on political thought and assessments of contemporary politics (e.g. biography or journalism). Do I need work experience? No, but it is highly advised. Many Politics applicants have an active interest in politics and this might have involved them in joining a political party or pressure group, community activism, or participating in a local political campaign. Some MPs offer Summer Work Experience placements that our students have found useful in the past. Which jobs can I do with Politics? After university, some students do become involved in the world of politics and public policy formulation. In recent years Habs students with Politics degrees have worked in the No 10 Policy unit or as research assistants to MPs and Lawyers. Many have gone on to post-graduate study of Law. Politics graduates continue to be highly sought after by employers, due to their capacity for independent thought and rigorous scholarship. Politics also opens up a range of opportunities in journalism, working for pressure groups and public policy think tanks. As with other degrees, Politics is an analytical subject which develops a range of skills useful to the spheres of law, business, finance and management.

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Advice for those intending to study Theology Applications Adviser for Theology: Mr A Lawrence/Dr J Green What would I study and how do courses differ? The study of theology and religion is increasingly important in a world where religious belief is a driving force behind social and political events. Theology, Religion, and Philosophy of Religion is a broad and demanding degree that addresses fundamental worldview questions through a range of religious traditions and philosophical standpoints. Encompassing the history, practice and thought of the major world religions courses promise to develop your understanding of the significance of religion and its cultural contexts. What are typical entry requirements? A typical offer from Cambridge is A*AA and Habs has sent one student each year to Cambridge to read Theology for the last six years. Other students have gone on to read Theology at Durham and have made successful applications to Bristol and other Russell Group universities. Oxford usually requires AAA and Durham typically makes offers of AAB at A Level. Are there any essential or recommended AS or A Levels? A Levels which demonstrate your ability to analyse text and write persuasively. The ability to read and absorb a quantity of material at one sitting is essential, and strong skills of critical reflective evaluation are recommended. Subjects such as Theology, Philosophy, English and History are ideal. However, Modern Languages and Politics are also useful. A good combination is vital, however. Seek guidance here in School. Which are the best universities for Theology? Cambridge, Durham, Oxford, Exeter, St Andrews, Bristol, Birmingham and Nottingham. Is there any special advice for Oxbridge applicants? All applicants for Theology, Religion, and Philosophy of Religion at Cambridge are required to take a written assessment at interview, if interviewed. Assessment format: Brief lecture followed by written response (60 minutes). The Theology, Religion, and Philosophy of Religion Admissions Assessment will take the form of a pre-recorded sample lecture lasting up to 20 minutes. You will then have the remaining 40 minutes to answer a set of comprehension questions. This will give you an opportunity to demonstrate how you have developed academically since you took your GCSEs. It will be skills-based, looking at your comprehension and writing skills, but will not assume any prior knowledge. It will provide valuable additional evidence of our applicantsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; abilities and potential to succeed in the Cambridge course for which they have applied. What is important for my personal statement or interview? The ability to think clearly and to reason coherently. Evidence of independence of thought, the ability to structure work and arguments in a logical way, and the ability to write clearly with clear expression of thought. Suggested reading list: See T&P teachers for recommended reading. Do I need to do work experience? Work experience in any professional environment shows independence and ability to work alongside others. Which jobs can I do with Law? A Theology degree equips students with significant transferable skills that are highly valued in a wide range of professions. A large number of graduates go on to work in related disciplines, teacher training or law conversion courses. Other graduates go on to positions such as investment banking, social work, management consultancy, accountancy, personnel management, the police force, marketing and the Civil Service.

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Advice for those intending to study Veterinary Science Applications Adviser for Veterinary Science: Mr C Glanville What would I study and how do courses differ? All courses leading to a degree in Veterinary Science have to comply with the requirements of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons for recognition under the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966. Veterinary courses have a carefully structured and integrated programme with one stage leading logically into the next. The pre-clinical stage involves a lot of theoretical work, followed by the para-clinical and clinical stages. All courses are five years in length and will comprise veterinary anatomy, veterinary physiology, biochemistry and animal husbandry in the pre-clinical stage, veterinary pathology, veterinary parasitology and microbiology and veterinary pharmacology in the para-clinical stage and then a clinical or final stage comprising elements of surgery, medicine and diseases which takes up the final two years of the course. Which is the best veterinary school? Veterinary school is very competitive, on a par with the competitiveness of medical school. There are 7 veterinary schools across the country and so the main thing to decide is where you want to study. The schools are located in London (the Royal Veterinary College, RVC), Nottingham, Liverpool, Glasgow, Edinburgh (Royal School of Veterinary Studies), Cambridge and Bristol. The best veterinary school is the best one for you! First choose the course you want. Then think location (London or not?), large or small and how you would like to work during the clinical stages, where some differences between schools occur. Then consider what else is on offer; sports, etc., which you already do or would like to take up. What are the typical entry requirements? Initial Screening This process takes place in most veterinary schools before your application is passed to the Admissions’ Tutor. To succeed in this first stage candidates from a selective school such as Haberdashers’ should aim to achieve GCSE grades above the requirement quoted in the admissions literature. GCSE grades are often scored, so you should try to achieve A and A*s in all subjects if you are to be hopeful of passing through initial screening. Our experience shows that even one B grade can affect your application. If you are uncertain about your position you must telephone the Admissions’ Tutor. General statements on the website are not necessarily true for an individual. Do your research. GCSE/IGCSE Subject Choice You must take Chemistry and Biology and we strongly recommend Physics to IGCSE and that you must achieve an A* in these subjects. Whilst Physics may not be quoted as a requirement by every veterinary school, it is highly recommended that you have this, particularly if you are planning to take the BMAT. You must consult your Science teachers before you make your option choices to check that you are capable of achieving an A* in these subjects, and of continuing to A Level. You must check the course requirements before you apply. For some courses you are also expected to achieve a high grade in English Language and Maths is very important as well. Do your research. A Level Subject Choice We recommend all candidates from Haberdashers’ offer Chemistry and Biology to A Level. Most schools require two Sciences at A level and one of Physics or Maths. If you research you may find a school whose requirements are less demanding, but remember that if you have difficulty with a science now you are not going to cope at veterinary school. Furthermore, questions are going to be asked as to why you did not continue a science to AS/A Level at a school such as Haberdashers. No school will offer you a place with anything below AAB and below AAA is more realistic. A*AA could well be the offer when you make your application. You must read the MPW guide “Getting into Veterinary School”, ISBN: 978-1-84455-390-7. You should also consult each school’s prospectus and website and ring the admissions officer for precise information at the time of application. Maths Maths and Further Maths will only count as one subject. Candidates taking Double Maths may not be able to demonstrate sufficient breadth of skills within their A Level studies. This does not rule out Double Maths, January 2019 Page | 117

but such candidates will need to convince selectors that they also have the right personal skills and qualities through voluntary work and other school activities. Do your research. AS Level Results You must gain the highest marks you can in the AS examinations. A very high equivalent grade A average across your subjects will be needed for us to make strong A Level predictions, i.e. A*. The school will quote exceptional AS marks in the academic reference. As many schools do not offer the option of taking AS Level in the new linear A Level examinations, many universities will not use your AS grade as part of their selection process. However, they will be used as the basis of your predictions, which will be used to process your application. Do your research. Poor AS grades might mean you have to rethink, study Bio Med Sciences or Zoology, for example, then think about applying for Vet Med either as post graduate or as an undergraduate. A Level Results. For September 2019entry applicants need AAA at A Level. Entry to Cambridge and Glasgow require A*AA. Are there supplementary tests I need to take? Biomedical Admissions Test (BMAT) Cambridge and RVC requires applicants to sit the Biomedical Admissions Test, the BMAT. You are advised to read the test specifications which are posted on the website: www.bmat.org.uk. Do not underestimate how difficult it is to complete this test in the allotted time. You will need to know and understand IGCSE Chemistry, Biology, Physics and Maths and be able to apply your knowledge in an imaginative way. For help with the preparation of this test buy a copy of “How to do the BMAT”, an MPW publication. You might also like to research www.kaplan.co.uk. Kaplan is an organisation, located just behind the National Gallery, which prepares students for all sorts of tests. This is not cheap. This test is set nationally on two days only, in the September and November of your Upper Sixth Year. The November BMAT is sat here in school, but for the September date you will need to take the BMAT externally and arrange yourself. There is guidance for the BMAT here in school in the second half of the Lower Sixth in Enhancement lessons. Personal Qualities If the Admissions Tutors are interested in your application they will call you to interview. Being a Vet is not a lucrative business. You must not become involved if you seek wealth. Obviously you must have a passion for animal welfare. Making quick and sometimes difficult decisions is vital. You must emotionally resilient and be able to think objectively. Admissions Tutors are looking for exceptional personal qualities. School sports teams, Drama, Music, your SCS activity, CCF, Duke of Edinburgh are all excellent ways of allowing you to show that you can make decisions, work as part of a team, take responsibility, be a leader. It is also very important that you gain experience of people in society outside your immediate experience, for example through voluntary work, organised local community schemes, Sunday School, youth groups, or part-time paid employment. Admissions Tutors are looking for genuine interest and commitment on the part of sincere applicants. Professional Experience It is essential that candidates demonstrate their understanding and commitment to the veterinary profession. This means a lot of work experience in the varying fields of Vet Science. For example, the Royal Veterinary College requires at least six weeks “hands on” experience: two weeks with one or more vet practices; two weeks or more working with larger domestic animals on a livestock farm; and two weeks of other animal experience (e.g. kennels, riding school, zoo, etc.). This is a good benchmark of work experience to work towards but check each school to find out their exact requirements. Some schools, such as Cambridge, are more relaxed about work experience. VERY IMPORTANT NOTE: When preparing your personal statement you much access the Vet schools’ websites to ensure you cover what they are looking for eg proof of manual dexterity, specified number of work experience weeks, lab work, etc. Is there any special reading I should be doing? Applicants must have a genuine, enthusiastic and informed interest in some of the basic medical conditions that affect animals. You will also need to be up to date with current political and ethical issues that are January 2019 Page | 118

affecting the veterinary profession. Keep up with the national press for any topical issues. You must read the MPW guide “Getting into Veterinary School”, ISBN: 978-1-84455-390-7 for useful resources. Some very important things to remember: • Entering Vet Science at a young age is a huge commitment on your part. The course is long and hard. You must honestly and carefully examine your motives for wanting to enter this profession, or you may not last the course or the job. •

This is a highly competitive field and no path will guarantee success. You must consider a safety net career. On the UCAS form you will be invited to apply for up to four Vet Science courses. You will have the option of applying for another course with your fifth choice. Applicants routinely choose Bio Med Science or Zoology.

•

Be aware that the course requirements quoted above are open to change. It is vital that you read the current prospectuses of your chosen schools and check the website carefully, contact the Admissions Tutors to confirm your eligibility before you apply.

Useful Links Research each school’s website www.opendays.com www.thetimes.co.uk (good University guide) www.thestudentroom.com www.ucas.ac.uk www.rcvs.org.uk (Royal College of Vet Surgeons) www.spvs.org.uk (Society of Practising Veterinary Surgeons) www.vbd.co.uk (Vetsonline database and resource) www.walksoflife.org.uk (Admissions requirements for UK Vet

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www.habsboys.org.uk /habsboys @habsboys

JS - January 2019