Kingsmead School
A partner academy in John Taylor MAT
Sixth Form Informa on Evening Thursday 26th November 6:00 - 8:00pm CHALLENGE, ACHIEVEMENT, PRIDE
Contents Ÿ Welcome Ÿ Who’s who? Ÿ Applica on
Deadline Ÿ Entry Requirements Ÿ Subject Offers
Ÿ Curriculum
Informa on Ÿ Leadership Roles Ÿ Student Voice Ÿ Further Informa on
Welcome The Sixth Form at Kingsmead School is an exciting place to work and learn. Choosing to continue your education with us will give you the opportunity to flourish academically, grow and develop into mature young people, and be ready to embrace the exciting challenges of university, higher level apprenticeships or employment. This prospectus will guide you through the broad range of subjects we offer and convey our high expectations that ensures the excellent working ethos in our Sixth Form. We have a track record of academic excellence, securing places for all students who want to progress to university. Last academic year 75% of our students gained places at universities including University College London, Birmingham, Warwick, Keele, Nottingham and Loughborough. We are very proud of our student success. At Kingsmead Sixth Form we put your welfare first and seek to ensure your success through our partnership between you, our staff and your parents. If you choose to join us we ask you to commit to our high aspirations and expectations; in return you will be a valued member of our student community where we will do everything possible to help you thrive and succeed. Our Sixth Form offers a wide range of academic and vocational courses as well as extra-curricular and enrichment opportunities. A strong pastoral system will give you the scope to lead, take responsibility, develop effective relationships with adults and younger students and gain greater confidence. We recognise that every student is different and our individualised approach to advice and guidance means that personal and academic goals can be achieved. Kingsmead is a popular and thriving Sixth Form where all students are encouraged to achieve their potential. Whatever your career ambitions, subject choices or interests, I am sure you will find it a challenging, exciting and enjoyable place to be.
Mrs Diane Pritchard Senior Leader ( Post 16)
The Sixth Form Team
Mrs D Pritchard Head of Sixth Form
Mrs T Gunner Sixth Form Administrator
Mrs H Roden Work Experience
Mrs J Butler Informa on & Guidance
Mrs J Kendall Progression Mentor
Mr M Sewell Progression Mentor
Contact Mrs D Pritchard Mrs T Gunner Mrs J Kendall Mr M Sewell Mrs J Butler Mrs H Roden
Head of Sixth Form Sixth Form Administrator Progression Mentor Progression Mentor Informa on & Guidance Work Experience
d.pritchard@kingsmeadschool.net t.gunner@kingsmeadschool.net j.kendall@kingsmeadschool.net m.sewell@kingsmeadschool.net j.butler@kingsmeadschool.net h.roden@kingsmeadschool.net
Sixth Form Student Team
Ellie Ryder Head Girl
Joshua Robinson Head Boy
Laura Greenwood Deputy Head Girl
Jordan Warren Student Ambassador
Luther Williamson Deputy Head Boy
Natasha Tsang Student Ambassador
Kayleigh Ghent Student Ambassador
Charlie Walker Student Ambassador
Lucy Morson Student Ambassador
Lauren Cross Student Ambassador
Helena Pickerill Student Ambassador
Sixth Form Curriculum 2016 - 2017 Curriculum Area English
Maths Science
Performance
MFL ICT/Business
Art and Technology Humanities
Subject English Language & Literature English Literature Media Studies (Btec) Mathematics Chemistry Physics Biology Health & Social Care – Double offer (Btec) Child play and Early years (Btec) Sport (Btec) Performing Arts (Btec) Music (Btec) French Business Studies Business Studies (OCR Technicals) ICT (OCR technical) Computer Science Art and Design Sociology Religion & Ethics Geography History Psychology
Entry Requirements At Kingsmead Sixth Form we oer a wide range of academic and voca onal courses designed to meet students' individual needs. We take each young person on their own merit and guide them onto courses that will allow them to achieve their individual poten al. All courses will have an entry requirement and it is important that you make a note of these before selec ng that par cular subject. This informa on is located on the subject syllabus along with the web address of the course provider. Academic subjects (A levels) will require you to have passed the subject at GCSE level at grade B or above. For Maths and Science, subjects passes at GCSE will need to be at A/A* level. For access to Btec courses we will require 4 A* - C passes at GCSE level. Many subjects have an Average GCSE point score (APS) to guide you; this is based on points per GCSE grade. Most courses will expect you to have passed English and Maths GCSE at Grade C or above. Resits are oered for these subjects if needed. GCSE Point Score per grade
Grade A* A B C D E F
Point Score 58 52 46 40 34 28 22
The APS is based on your points tally divided by the number of GCSEs taken. Although this is only a guideline it gives you a good idea as to the standard required to pass the A level or Btec course.
Applica on Timeline Date 26th November 2015
18th December 2015
4th January 2015
1st February 2016
12th February 2016
25th August 2016
Action ‘Applications online’ will go live Students and parents will be able to access all subject prospectuses, guidance on the process and the PowerPoint from the information evening. Available on the Kingsmead Sixth Form website. Initial application deadline Students will still be able to apply after this deadline however the process of timetabling and subject blocking will need to begin after this date. Review of applications starts This will involve discussions with Curriculum Leaders/Heads of House/Heads of Year and Pastoral tutors as to the appropriateness of course choices for each student. Interview process begins All students will be offered an interview where the appropriateness of subject choices will be discussed. Parents are very welcome to attend these interviews but it must be stressed they will take place during the working day. Interviews process ends At this stage all of the information will be processed and we will begin the blocking of subjects according to subject choices. Further discussions with students and parents may be required over the course of the next few months. You should continue to work very hard towards achieving the best in your GCSEs. GCSE Results Day Results against course choice will be reviewed once GCSE results are received and offers of a place will be confirmed.
Ÿ During this applica on process it is vital that you seek advice from the people around you. Speak to
your Parents, Teachers and Careers Advisors at School. Ÿ Visit Websites which are designed to help in career and subject choices. Please visit the Sixth Form website where a number of very useful websites are linked for you. Ÿ Members of the Sixth Form Team are always available to talk through any issues no ma er how small, please come along and chat.
Curriculum Informa on Exam Board: Edexcel www.edexcel.com
Art & Design
Biology
Art and Design is a challenging but rewarding subject that combines intellectual knowledge with crea ve effort. At Kingsmead, our Art and Design A level courses offer you many opportuni es to get involved in your own area of interest. During the first year, you will follow a broad and balanced course and will have the opportunity to work across a number of specialisms as you develop your ideas and crea ve iden ty before specialising in an area of interest in Year 13. What are the aims of the A level course? The aims of the Year 12 course is to enable you to learn how to think independently, develop and produce personal crea ve work within an art and design context whilst showing understanding of materials and techniques across a broad number of crea ve disciplines. You will learn to analyse your own visual work as well as evaluate and learn from the work of other ar sts, designers and cra s people. In Year 12 you will work on three project themes which finalises in a personal study bringing all three themes together. In Year 13 you will be encouraged to specialise in an area of interest. You will work on a different personal project to Year 12 and can choose to develop your skills in fine art, art, cra and design or tex le desig. You will also receive an external assignment which that you will produce a set of work for.
How will I be assessed? There are two components to the course, 60% coursework and 40% exam work. Assessment methods incorporates three major elements, suppor ng studies, prac cal work and a personal study. You will be assessed on a wri en piece of no less than a 1000 words. What career opportuni es lead from this course? The answer is... Lots! There are many careers in art, cra and design. To name but a few: - Adver sing, Marke ng, Publishing, Anima on, Architecture, Museums, Theatre or Art Gallery work, Tex le Design, Fashion Design, Special Effects for Movies, Stage Design, Theatre/Film/ TV Make-Up, Graphic Design, Interior Design, Architecture, Illustra on, Jewellery Design, Product Design. The course you study at Kingsmead will allow you to progress to University to an Art related degree course or a pre-degree founda on diploma in Art and Design. What are the entry requirements for Art and Design? You would benefit most from a studying at this level if you have 4 GCSE's or equivalent at A*-C, preferable, but not essen al are GCSEs in Art &/or Design. “The real issue is not talent as an independent element, but talent in rela onship to will, desire and persistance”
Biology
Exam Board: OCR www.ocr.org.uk
Why should I study Biology? An A Level in Biology will complement a range of If you love learning about how your body works other subject areas including Mathema cs, other Examal Board:Sciences, OCR then study Biology. As well as developing essen Sport and many more. Website: www.ocr.org.uk knowledge and understanding of the different areas What career paths would Biology be suitable for? of Biology you will also learn to appreciate how Many students enjoy Biology so much they society makes decisions about scien fic issues and eventually choose a Biologically related degree how science contributes to the success of the course. An A level in Biology can also lead to a range economy and society. Biology is never far away of alterna ve careers including Environmental from the headlines......debates about the burning of Science, Agriculture, Teaching, Food and Nutri on, rainforest, DNA cloning, food produc on and Medicine, Forestry, Pharmacy and Veterinary. advances in medicine to name a few. What are the entry requirements for Biology? What skills can I gain from studying Biology? Na onal data suggests this course is suitable for students who have an average GCSE point score of The skills you could gain include prac cal scien fic 46.8 or alterna vely an A*-A in Science. skills, numeracy skills in sta s cal analysis of results, analy cal and evalua ve skills. The skills you “The natural world is the greatest source of gain in Biology can be used in a range of subject excitement, visual beauty and intellectual interest.” areas.
Exam Board: OCR www.ocr.org.uk
Business Studies (Cambridge Technicals)
Why should I study Business Studies? undertaking the course will work on projects Exam Board:Students OCR Studying Business Studies develops students' Website: www.ocr.org.uk individually and part of a team. knowledge and understanding of the business sector. This course is assessed through six units of coursework. Students who undertake Business Studies will look at There is no examina on for this course. how to set up a business, how products are produced, What career paths would Business Studies be suitable marketed, financed and legalised. Students will gain for? an understanding of the world of business and The course is designed to introduce students to the employment within a range of business disciplines. concepts such as Finance, Human Resources and small The study of Business Studies encourages students businesses. The course would therefore be suitable for understanding of current affairs within the Economic students who may wish to have their own businesses in sector. the future. What skills can I gain from studying Business Many of our Business students go on to study Business Studies? Students studying Business Studies will related degrees at University. Students undertaking develop a range of skills including mathema cal skills, Business Studies go on to many career paths including analy cal skills, and evalua ve skills. They will also Finance, Adver sing and Marke ng, Opera ons develop their prac cal skills of me management, Management, Engineering, Business Management and personal organisa on and planning together with many more. presenta on skills addressing audiences using a What are the entry requirements for Business variety of media and forms. Interpersonal skills Studies? including communica on and group work, cogni ve Na onal data suggests that this course is suitable for skills such as reflec on and review of own and others' students with a minimum of 5 GCSEs with grades performances will also be developed. A* - C.
Business Studies
Exam Board: AQA www.aqa.org.uk
What career paths would Business Studies be Why should I study Business Studies? Exam Board: AQA for? suitable Studying Business Studies develops students' Website: www.aqa.org.uk The A2 course is designed to introduce knowledge and understanding of the business students to the concepts of enterprise, sector. Students who undertake Business Studies entrepreneurs and both small and large will look at how to set up a business, how products businesses. The course would therefore be are produced, marketed, financed and legalised. suitable for students who may wish to have Students will gain an understanding of the world of their own businesses in the future. business and employment within a range of Many of our Business Studies students go on to business disciplines. The study of Business Studies study business related degrees at University. encourages students understanding of current Students undertaking Business Studies go on to many career paths including: Finance, affairs within the Economic sector. Accountancy, Adver sing and Marke ng, Opera ons Management, Engineering, What skills can I gain from studying Business Business Management and many more. Studies? What are the entry requirements for Business Students studying Business Studies will develop a Studies? range of skills including mathema cal skills, Na onal data suggests this course is suitable for analy cal skills, presenta on skills, evalua ve skills students who have achieved a minimum of 5 GCSE or and many more. Students undertaking the A Level equivalents at A*-C. course will work on tasks individually and part of a team, acquire a range of skills including decision“Business opportuni es are like buses; there is making and problem-solving. always another one coming”
Chemistry Exam Board: OCR B (Salters) Website: www.ocr.org.uk
Why should I study Chemistry? Because it is fundamental to the way in which we live our lives! Think about a day in your life and how it would be different without all the things that Chemistry has helped to provide. Think about what you wear, what you eat, your leisure ac vi es and what happens if you get ill. What skills can I gain from studying Chemistry? Studying Chemistry allows you to develop a range of both subject-specific and transferable skills valued by employers. As well as gaining knowledge in tradi onal fields of Chemistry (organic, inorganic, physical and analy cal), some modules include a more applied approach such as medicine. Chemistry is also studied in an environmental and social context, so you gain awareness of its ethical implica ons, as well as issues rela ng to environmental impact and sustainability.
You will also build up a range of other transferable skills, including; analy cal and problem-solving; monitoring and evalua on; and importantly; me management and organisa on. What career paths would Chemistry be suitable for? Not all Chemists wear white coats! With a qualifica on in Chemistry you could go on to Further or Higher Educa on, studying Chemistry or one of the other sciences or related subjects, such as Medicine, Pharmacy, Veterinary Science, Marine Science, Sports Science or Chemical Engineering. The problem solving and analy cal approach in Chemistry can also lead to many career opportuni es outside the sciences such as Law, Management, or Accountancy. What are the entry requirements for Chemistry? Na onal data suggests that this course is suitable for students with an A*-A grade in Science.
Computer Science Exam Board: AQA
www.aqa.org.uk
How does Computer Science differ from ICT? Why should I study Computer Science? Exam Board:Computer AQA Science is the study of how computer Computer Science is an increasingly popular A-Level www.aqa.org.uk systems and technology works. Students learn how to choice with good career prospects. An A-LevelWebsite: in “Preparing students today forcomputer the needs of tomorrow” make their own programs (using Python 3.3) Computer Science will value computa onal thinking, and understand key topics such as binary, the workings helping learners to develop the skills to solve of internal components and networking of computer problems, design systems and understand the power systems. Conversely, ICT provides students with the and limits of human and machine intelligence. tools and skills to use computers in a workplace Computer Science is increasingly relevant to the environment. modern world. What career paths would be suitable? Computer Science is for those students who want to Many students undertaking the Computer Science know how the technology works. They wish to qualifica on go on to further study at University to understand the workings of a computer system, how study Computer Science, Physics, So ware Engineering, data is represented in digital format and how the internal components work. They wish to develop their Computer Games Development, Informa on Systems, Forensic Compu ng, Computer Technologies, Network own programs, solve problems and enjoy the theory of computer systems. Computer Scien sts will apply a Management and Web Design. Others may go into direct employment or appren ceships as a Computer high-level of understanding of mathema cs to the Programmer, So ware Engineer, Database theory and programming elements of the course. Administrator, Games Developer, Informa on Systems Successful students will need to be able to think Manager, IT Consultant, Mul media Programmer, through theory and programming in a logical sense but also have the crea vity to create, develop and test Network Engineer, Systems Analyst or Systems Developer. solu ons. What are the entry requirements? Computer Science students will need to have the capacity for thinking crea vely, innova vely, It is recommended that to be successful, students will analy cally, logically and cri cally. As well as have 5 at least GCSE A*-C including minimum of a B mathema cal skills, the students will require the grade in GCSE Mathema cs, with an A grade preferred. ability to ar culate the moral, social and legal GCSE Computer Science is an advantage, but not opportuni es and risks of digital technology. essen al (especially with a good Mathema cs grade).
Exam Board: AQA www.aqa.org.uk Why should I study English Language and Literature? This course has a broader scope and topic range than those focusing solely on Literature. The course provides breadth of study and offers students the chance to write crea vely. We study a variety of texts from different eras and offer you the chance to engage crea vely and independently with a range of spoken, wri en and mul modal texts. So.. if you enjoy reading, discussing and analysing novels, plays and poetry then this is the course for you. What skills can I gain from studying English Language and Literature? Skills developed in studying English to A Level are obvious. You will learn how to use words correctly, communicate with an audience, and develop your research skills and wri ng style. Students under taking this course become be er communicators, more ar culate and more confident.
What career paths would English Language and Literature be suitable for? The course can be a stepping stone to a degree in Language, Literature or both! Also it is one which will prove to be an asset should you wish to study any variety of subjects at University, for example: Law, Journalism, Humani es and Educa on. If you are not thinking of doing a degree or you are looking beyond this, English can help you gain careers in Journalism, Police, Poli cs, Business and Sales: the sky's the limit! What are the entry requirements for English Language and Literature? Na onal data shows that this course is suitable for students with an average GCSE points score of 38.9 or more or alterna vely an A*-B in English. “A book is a dream that you hold in your hand.”
English Literature Why should I study English Literature? English Language and Literature is a popular course and for a good reason! The course is varied and the skills you develop over the course will help you in any chosen career. We study a variety of texts from different eras; so if you enjoy reading, discussing and analysing novels, plays and poetry, then this is the course for you. We also however, aim to develop your wri ng skills and broaden your awareness of other cultures and socie es. What skills can I gain from studying English Literature? Skills developed in studying English to A Level are obvious. You will learn how to use words correctly, communicate with an audience, and develop your research skills and wri ng style. Students under taking this course become be er communicators, more ar culate and more confident.
Exam Board: AQA www.aqa.org.uk
What career paths would English Language and Literature be suitable for? The course can be a stepping stone to a degree in Language, Literature or both! Also it is one which will prove to be an asset should you wish to study any variety of subjects at University, for example: Law, Journalism, Humani es and Educa on. If you are not thinking of doing a degree or you are looking beyond this, English can help you gain careers in Journalism, Police, Poli cs, Business and Sales: the sky's the limit! What are the entry requirements for English Language and Literature? Na onal data shows that this course is suitable for students with an average GCSE points score of 38.9 or more or alterna vely an A*-B in English.
Exam Board: AQA www.aqa.org.uk Why should I study French? An A Level in languages is becoming more and more sought a er. This course covers many contemporary issues which are relevant to young people today: Ÿ Media – TV, adver sing, communica on technology. Ÿ Popular culture – cinema, music, fashion trends. Ÿ Healthy living and lifestyles – Sport / exercise, health and well-being, holidays. Ÿ Family rela onships – Rela onships within the family, friendship, marriage / partnerships. What skills can I gain from studying French? Through studying A Level French, you will build on the listening, speaking, reading, and wri ng skills gained at GCSE. Being able to communicate in another language is a vital skill which will not only enhance your employment prospects but will also facilitate foreign travel. You will gain an insight into another culture and society and the study of A Level French will provide you with a sound basis for further study.
What career paths would French be suitable for? A foreign language qualifica on is highly valued by employers and University admissions tutors. Not only is it essen al for the more obvious career choices of transla ng, interpre ng, teaching, travel and tourism, but a foreign language can also complement studies in Law, Journalism, Technology etc. Furthermore, if you choose to study French as part of your University degree, you will have the opportuni es to spend a year studying or working in a French speaking country. What are the entry requirements for French? Na onal data suggests that successful students have a GCSE point score of 45.4 or more or alterna vely have achieved an A*- B grade in GCSE French. “One language sets you in a corridor for life Two languages open every door along the way.”
Exam Board: AQA www.aqa.org.uk Why should I study Geography? Our new specifica on will excite your minds, challenge percep ons and s mulate your inves ga ve and analy cal skills. The course content will incorporate the human and physical Geography you love and nurture a developed understanding of the subject through four days of compulsory fieldwork. What skills can I gain from studying Geography? It offers the opportunity to develop skills in research, analysis, and inves ga on. Geography offers the chance to develop fieldwork and to experience for yourself different places and environments. All of this will provide you with the knowledge, skills and enthusiasm sought by higher educa on and employers.
What career paths would Geography be suitable for? A geographical educa on helps you to develop knowledge and skills that are highly valued in today's ever changing world. Such quali es are widely sought a er and are par cularly useful for careers in: Media, Local Government, Countryside Management, the Environment, Planning, Property, Surveying, Teaching, Banking, Finance, Marke ng, Estate Agency, the Armed Forces, Administra on and Management, Personnel Work, Travel, Tourism, Leisure, Informa on Handling etc. Geography combines well with most other 'A' level and Voca onal courses. It is universally recognised as a bridge between the Arts and Sciences. What are the entry requirements for Geography? GCSE Geography Grade B or above is required to secure entry. In addi on a GCSE Grade B or above in English and Maths is needed. ‘”Geography is all about the living, breathing essence of the world we live in. It explains the past, illuminates the present and prepares us for the future. What could be more important than that?”
Health & Social Care
Exam Board: Edexcel www.edexcel.com
Why should I study Health and Social Care? Health, safety and security within care se ngs are also Exam Board:vital Edexcel BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma/Diploma in Health and students will learn how to inves gate and Website: www.edexcel.com and Social Care is designed to give students a highly avoid poten al hazards and minimise risks through specialised work related qualifica on. On successful conduc ng risk assessments. comple on of this qualifica on students can progress BTEC Level 3 Health and Social Care also incorporate to studying for a degree/enter into employment the use of Personal Learning and Thinking Skills (PLTS) within the field of Health and Social Care. and the func onal skills of Maths, English and ICT Alterna vely students may wish to undertake the which are essen al to success in learning, life and course to complement their other Level Three work. subjects. What career paths would Health and Social Care be What skills can I gain? suitable for? This subject will give you the opportunity to gain Health and Social Care is an ideal subject for entry to specific knowledge, understanding and skills that are such degree courses as Nursing, Midwifery, relevant to a career in the field of Health and Social Physiotherapy, Occupa onal Therapy, Medicine, Early Care and for life in general. It will develop Years or Primary Teaching and Social Work as well as communica on skills in order to form effec ve being suitable for other non-specific courses. rela onships and work coopera vely with other What are the entry requirements for Health and professionals. Interpersonal skills will also be Social Care? developed which are vital to support people who Na onal data suggests successful students will have require care. Students will have the opportunity to achieved 4A* - C grades at GCSE level. In order to gain an understanding of policies and procedures to study the on the Diploma course, students need to safeguard vulnerable groups in society who are most have achieved a minimum C grade in Maths and at risk of abuse and how to work in a way to promote English. an -discrimina on and inclusion.
History Why should I study History? History isn't a subject that's stuck in the past - far from it. Historical events are what have shaped society worldwide into what it is today. The GCE A Level History course has been designed to help you understand the value and significance of past world events. In the process you'll gain a deeper understanding of social, cultural, religious and ethnic diversity. Knowing how people lived in the past helps to understand why people act like they do today. What skills can I gain from studying History? Historical skills such as understanding cause and consequence, change and con nuity etc., are essen al in any job which requires analysis and strategy. In addi on Historians know how to read documents, ignore irrelevancies, separate propaganda from the truth, and circumstan al from hard evidence. Furthermore students of History will be able to produce extended, logical, reasoned debate in wri ng. What career paths would History be suitable for? An A Level in History can help young people in a wide range of careers from Accountant to Osteopath!
Exam Board: AQA www.aqa.org.uk You name a career and History can give you a relevant key skill. For example think of an Air Traffic Controller How do you organise the flight paths of twenty planes when you have to deal with a problem, listen to instruc ons from your controller and talk with a pilot about his landing gear? The Historian is used to dealing with a mass of facts and informa on, sor ng out the important from the unimportant, working under pressure to organise it all efficiently. Components Studied? Exam Topic – Stuart Britain and the Crisis of Monarchy, 1603-1702 Exam Topic – Democracy and Nazism: Germany, 19181945 Non-Exam Topic – Historical Inves ga on – A personal study, of 3000-3500 words, based on a topic of the student's choice, this take the form of a ques on in the context of approximately 100 years. What are the entry requirements for History? Students need to have achieved a minimum of a grade B at GCSE History. If they have not taken GCSE History they will need to have achieved a grade B at GCSE English.
ICT
Exam Board: OCR Cambridge Technicals www.ocr.org.uk
Why should I study ICT? What career paths would ICT be suitable for? Informa on & Communica ons Technology (IT)Exam is one students undertaking Board:Many OCR Cambridge Technicals the ICT qualifica on go of our most popular subject areas. This qualifica on www.ocr.org.uk on to further study at University. Others may go into Website: gives students an excellent knowledge of a range of direct employment or Appren ceships as ICT units such as installing hardware, crea ng a website, Technicians, Mobile Communica ons Technician, iden fying IT faults, computer anima on and eWeb Designer, ICT Technical Support, ICT Sales commerce. Specialist, Hardware Engineer or So ware It is an ideal founda on for students entering the Developer. workplace, providing them with a theore cal The course is also useful when combined with other background reinforced with prac cal skills that Business, Humani es or Arts based subjects to show transfer into the modern workplace. up-to-date knowledge of ICT. What skills can I gain from studying ICT? What are the entry requirements for ICT? Students will gain a range of skills including Na onal data suggests that successful students will communica on, working prac ces, new technologies, have 4 GCSE A*-C plus a pass in their Level Two ICT maintaining computer systems, IT support and project qualifica on. planning. Students will also undertake some more specialist units including developing computer games, website produc on, computer anima on, media authoring and many more.
“ICT is not only the future of our childrens’ educa on it is the present; and we need to make the investment in ICT now.”
Mathematics
Exam Board: Edexcel www.edexcel.com
Why should I study Mathema cs? What skills can I gain from studying Mathema cs? The main reason for studying Mathema cs to an There are a wide variety of skills that can be Exam Board: Edexcel advanced level is that it is interes ng and Website: www.edexcel.com acquired, including the abili es: enjoyable. People like its challenge, its clarity, and Ÿ to use logical thought the fact that you know when you are right. The Ÿ to formulate a problem in a way which allows solu on of a problem has an excitement and a for computa on and decision sa sfac on. You should also be aware of the wide Ÿ to make deduc ons from assump on importance of Mathema cs, and the way in which Ÿ to use advanced concepts it is advancing at a spectacular rate. What career paths would Mathema cs be suitable for? Mathema cs is about pa ern and structure; it is An A Level in Mathema cs opens the door to an about logical analysis, deduc on, calcula on within almost limitless career path. Many students these pa erns and structures. When pa erns are con nue their studies of Mathema cs to degree found, o en in widely different areas of Science level; others will use it in combina on with other A and Technology, the Mathema cs of these pa erns Level subjects. can be used to explain and control natural happenings and situa ons. Mathema cs has a What are the entry requirements for Mathema cs? pervasive influence on our everyday lives, and Na onal data suggests successful students will have contributes to the wealth of the country. a GCSE point score of 48 or more or alterna vely you will have achieved an A*-A in GCSE Mathema cs. “Without Mathema cs there is nothing you can do. Everything around you is Mathema cs. Everything around you is numbers”
Media
Exam Board: Edexcel www.edexcel.com
Why should I study Media? What skills can I gain from studying Media? “The world is for thousands a freak show; the The BTEC Level 3 Na onal subsidiary Diploma in Exam Board: Edexcel images flicker past and vanish; the impressions Crea ve Media produc on will help you to develop Website: www.edexcel.com remain flat and unconnected in the soul. Thus they key skills such as inves ga on, analysis, are easily led by the opinions of others, are content interpreta on, evalua on, communica on and to let their impressions be shuffled and rearranged project management. You will gain an insight to how and evaluated differently.” - Johann Wolfgang Von Produc on Company's work and the processes Goethe (1749-1832) German poet, novelist and involved in crea ng varied media. drama st. What career paths would Media be suitable for? The skills that you will learn in BTEC Level 3 Na onal Living in a world that is increasingly dominated by a subsidiary Diploma in Crea ve Media produc on will dazzling variety of media, it has become be useful to you in any number of careers; Teaching, increasingly vital to understand how the media Journalism, working in the Media Industry and even the Business world. The prac cal applica on of the world works and how it creates meaning and course will allow you to head straight into industry influences our lives. The study of Crea ve Media or to con nue your studies at further educa on. produc ons builds on the knowledge, skills and What are the entry requirements for Media? understanding that students have developed at Na onal data suggests successful students will have GCSE. However, there is no requirement for achieved 4 GCSEs at A*-C. students to have studied Media at GCSE. If you have We are also happy to accept students on to an A an interest in Film and Television and the world of Level course run side by side with the BTEC Level 3. produc on, this course will provide you with prac cal skills and knowledge that can be applied to the Media produc on world.
Music
Exam Board: Edexcel www.edexcel.com
Why should I study Music? What career paths would Music be suitable for? BTEC Music is a performance based subject. The course is designed to fully prepare students for a Exam Board: Edexcel If you enjoy performing on any instrument / voice career in the music industry, and is a natural Website: www.edexcel.com and want to develop your prac cal skills through a pathway for Popular Music Degrees. You may range of projects, this would be a good choice for however have a love for music and/or performing you. If you have a voca onal interest in the music and wish to study it alongside your other A Level industry, you would benefit from the diverse range subjects. of topics. What are the entry requirements for Music? What skills can I gain from studying Music? Na onal data suggest students will have Throughout the course you achieved 4 GCSE A*- C will study 6 units across the grades. two years. Units range from Discussion with delivery performing to managing course staff will ensure performance-based projects, compa bility and the developing technical skills level of prac cal and working with others in musicianship skills a variety of different required to complete contexts. the course.
Level 3 National Award in Children’s Play, Learning and Development
Exam Board: BTEC Na onal www.edexcel.com
Why should I study this Level 3 Award? paths would an Award in Child Educa on Exam Board:What BTECcareer National If you have a desire to do Early Years Study, to www.edexcel.com be a Level 3 offer? Social Worker, to Teach in the Primary Sector, train as From this course, combined with other qualifica ons it a Children's Nurse, or indeed any job working with is possible to go onto further training, for example, to children then this could be a suitable choice of course go to University to train for Primary Teaching, Social for you! Work, Nursing or Midwifery. This 2 year course is a Level 3 Award qualifica on. What are the entry requirements for the Award in What skills can I gain from studying Diploma in Child Children's Play, Learning and Development Level 3? Educa on Level 3? Students must have a minimum of 4 GCSE's at A* - C. This subject will give you the opportunity to gain Na onal data shows is suitable for students with an specific knowledge, understanding and skills that are average GCSE points score of 38 or more. Students relevant to a career in the field of Childcare/Early need a minimum of a Grade C or above in English due Years and life in general. to the nature of coursework on the course. You will gain in-depth knowledge of child development, observa on, assessment and planning “Free the child’s poten al, and you will transform them as well as safeguarding in an early years se ng. into the world.” You will also develop prac cal skills as you par cipate within your chosen are of work placement.
Performing Arts
Exam Board: Edexcel www.edexcel.com
Why should I study Performing Arts? Our students have been involved in a range of BTEC Performing Arts offers a range of opportuni es professional workshops including sword figh ng; Exam Board: Edexcel to develop skills within the Performing Arts Industry in Fran c Assembly Website: www.edexcel.com Physical Theatre Company and UV a voca onal context. puppetry. They have also worked with the cast of It provides students with skills and techniques, London West End's Produc on of Wicked and Les personal skills and a ributes essen al for their Miserables. working life. This is a fantas c course, the academic study and skills gained on a Performing What career paths would Performing Arts be suitable Arts course are invaluable and certainly push for? students' crea ve thinking. The course is 100% Performing Arts is not simply for students who wish to performance and por olio based, there is no wri en pursue ac ng as a career. It is a course that lends itself exam at the end of the course. Assessment is to numerous pathways, including; English, History, con nuous throughout the course. Media, Art and Design, Sociology, Tex les and What skills can I gain from studying Performing Arts? Educa on. There is a strong academic element to the Throughout the course we will study 3 units in Year course that is clearly focused on the knowledge, skills 12, a double unit and a single unit in Year 13. Units and understanding of Theatre in prac se. There is of range from Performing to an Audience, Physical course a strong performance related element within Theatre to Applying Ac ng Styles. Students acquire the course and any student wishing to a end Drama skills in the business side of Performing Arts, mee ng School, or study Performing Arts at Degree level would deadlines, business plans, promo on, budgets as well benefit greatly from this course. as gaining an understanding in Theatre History, Social What are the entry requirements for Performing Arts? and Economic contexts, Theatre Styles and Na onal data suggests successful students will have Performance Techniques. In addi on, there will be achieved a minimum of 4 GCSE or equivalents at A*-C. many opportuni es for students to see live Theatre Students with no prior Drama/Performing Arts locally and in London's West End and to take part in experience will be considered. Enthusiasm and hard professional Workshops with visi ng Theatre work are essen al. Companies to school and at Pineapple Dance Studios.
Physics
Exam Board: Edexcel www.edexcel.com
Why should I study Physics? What career paths would Physics be suitable for? Edexcel By studying Physics you're opening the door Exam to a Board:An A Level in Physics sees students enter a range of Website: www.edexcel.com wide variety of rewarding careers. As well as career paths including Medicine, Space, Law and learning about how the Universe works, you'll get a Finance, Environment, Engineering, Transport, broad training in skills that all employers value – an Energy, Music and Television and Educa on. ability to grasp concepts quickly, a determina on to find coherent answers, not to men on problemWhat are the entry requirements for Physics? solving, analy cal, mathema cal and IT skills. Na onal data suggests that successful students achieve a GCSE point score of 43.3 or more or What skills can I gain from studying Physics? alterna vely students may have achieved an A*-A in Skills gained in Physics include applica on of Science GCSE. number, communica on, ICT, problem solving and working with others.
Psychology
Exam Board: Edexcel www.edexcel.com
Exam Board:What Edexcel Why should I study Psychology? career paths would Psychology be suitable Website: www.edexcel.com Have you ever wandered what it is that makes for? Students can access any careers or courses some people act the way they do or why you're rela ng to human behaviour and Psychology forms a scared of spiders? Psychology could hold the component of many training courses where people answer to these ques ons and more. are the main focus; Human Rela ons, Adver sing, Psychology is the scien fic study of the mind and Policing, Medical Careers etc. human behaviour. Psychologists observe and conduct experiments to find out about the way What are the entry requirements for Psychology? people act and interact. Then they try to Na onal data shows that this course is suitable for understand what mo vates, challenges or even students with an average GCSE points score of 42 or changes us. more.
Religious Studies Why should I study Religion & Ethics? Ever since humankind started to think, religion has been a fundamental part of our development. As people look into the vastness of space or witness the miracle of birth, they contemplate the meaning of life and their own mortality. It has always been this way. In the 21st century, religion s ll addresses the same eternal human ques ons about life and death, values and rela onships, right and wrong. Religious Studies is an inclusive subject, designed for people of any faith or people who have no faith. It is not necessary to have taken Religious Studies at GCSE. All that is required is a desire to find out more about religion, ethics and its role in society. Religious Studies involves studying Chris anity and applying the faith to moral and ethical issues. What skills can I gain from studying Religion & Ethics? You will develop the skills of inves ga on, analysis, interpreta on, evalua on, communica on and debate. This course encourages students to: Ÿ Develop their interest in a study of religion and its rela on to the wider world. Ÿ Adopt an enquiring, cri cal and reflec ve approach to the study of religion. Ÿ Reflect on and develop their own values, opinions and a tudes.
Exam Board: AQA www.aqa.org.uk
What career paths would Religion & Ethics be suitable for? The skills that you will learn in Religious Studies will be useful to you in any number of careers; Teaching, Youth Work, Journalism, Civil Service, Social Services or Government to name a few. If you're thinking of a career in Law or Medicine then a Religious Studies ALevel is looked upon favourably for undergraduate courses too. Religious Studies is one of the fastest growing subjects. This is partly because it is compa ble with, and has a similar skills base to, subjects such as English, History, Sociology, Philosophy and Government and Poli cs. It is also a good partner course for not only the subjects men oned, but also for Archaeology, Classical Civilisa on and History of Art and Philosophy. What are the entry requirements for Religion & Ethics? Na onal data suggest successful students will have achieved a GCSE Grade B or more. “There is only one religion, though there are a hundred versions of it.”
Sociology
Exam Board: AQA www.aqa.org.uk
Why should I study Sociology? What makes Sociology an exci ng subject is that it Exam Board:helps AQAus learn more about ourselves and the way we Sociology can be combined with a range of A-level Website: www.aqa.org.uk courses and several ideas and concepts used in live our lives within the social system known as Sociology cross over with Psychology, History, society. Sociology develops analy cal and cri cal English and Media Studies. The ideas used are understanding of society through looking at key challenging and will give a different way of looking ins tu ons such as the family and educa on. at the modern world. What career paths would Sociology be suitable for? What skills can I gain from studying Sociology? A gradua on in Sociology provides a well-recognised Sociology is the study of society to the world we qualifica on for those seeking employment in such live in is both strange and confusing, yet areas as Poli cs, Educa on, Social Work, Finance and fascina ng. Commerce. It can also lead into areas such as the The Sociologist ques ons our everyday existence, Police Force and Industry. for example: are men adop ng a new role within family life? Are more people mo vated to commit What are the entry requirements for Sociology? crime? Can your social class determine your life Na onal data suggests that successful students will chances? The aim of Sociology is to help provide have achieved an average GCSE point score of 38.3 answers to these fascina ng ques ons. or more.
Sport
Exam Board: Edexcel www.edexcel.com
What career paths would Sport be suitable for? Why should I study Sport? Sport is a good subject for entry to such Degree If you have a keen interest in sport, health and wellExam Board: Edexcel courses as Sport and Exercise Science, Teaching being which is part of one of the biggest Website: www.edexcel.com employment sectors, then this is the course for you. Physical Educa on at Secondary, Primary Teaching, Sports Development Officers, Physiotherapy, Level 3 Cer ficate covers the key knowledge and Occupa onal Therapy, Leisure Management, prac cal skills required in the appropriate Medicine as well as being suitable for other nonvoca onal sector. The BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary specific courses. Physical Educa on is also suitable Diploma offers greater flexibility and a choice of for those wishing to go into the Armed Forces, Police emphasis through the op onal units. It is broadly or Fire Brigade. equivalent to one GCE A Level. What skills can I gain from studying Sport? Students will gain a range of skills including leadership, team work, research skills and many more. Students will gain a greater understanding of Principles of Anatomy and Physiology in Sport. The Physiology of Fitness, Assessing Risk in Sport, Fitness Tes ng for Sport and Exercise. Students will cover 3 further modules depending on strengths of the group. This year the groups have covered Prac cal Sport, Nutri on and Leadership modules. These can change year on year. “For sports fans, sports are the epitome of hard work and dedica on. To get to the pinnacle of their sport, even the most naturally gi ed athletes have to give it their all.”
What are the entry requirements for Sport? Na onal data suggests that successful students will have 4 GCSE A* - C or alterna vely a strong Sport qualifica on.
Further Informa on A endance A endance in the Sixth Form is full me. Students are expected to a end every day and arrive on me. A end all metabled lessons, as well as registra on. Appointments such as doctors/den sts/driving lessons should be arranged outside of school me. Holidays during term me are not permi ed. If a student has non-contact /study me they should remain on site and use the me to revise and study. There is now a dedicated study area in school for Sixth Form use. If students are absent due to illness, they are expected to catch up on all missed work. A endance levels below 95% seriously affect the success level in examina ons. Parents should contact the school on the first day of absence.
Dress Code We have a 'smart dress' policy in Sixth Form. All students are expected to wear smart office/business like clothing. No jeans or trainers are allowed. This is because students are role models to the rest of the school, se ng an example for other pupils, and also represent the Sixth Form to the wider community.
Bursary The Sixth Form has a bursary policy. The bursary fund is designed to help those young people between the ages of 16-19 (at the start of their academic studies) who face the greatest barriers to con nuing in Post-16 Educa on. The Bursary award has two main elements the Guaranteed Bursary and the Discre onary Bursary. For more informa on regarding eligibility and making an applica on please contact Mrs Gunner in the Sixth Form office.
Leadership Roles and Student Voice We aim to provide a wide range of leadership roles for our students to take on in the Sixth Form, to help build wider experience and skills. We elect a Head Boy and Head Girl, as well as a Deputy each year and these students represent the Sixth Form at a range of events. They also represent the Sixth Form at School Council. Student voice is something that is encouraged and taken seriously in the Sixth Form. Students take part in 'Quality Assurance' surveys and their views respected and listened to. We have a group of Sixth Form student Ambassadors led by the Head Boy and Head Girl who represent the student body regularly and are ac vely involved in charity events, publicity and primary liaison ac vi es. A recent innova on is our Sixth Form paired reading programme. Students read on a regular basis with year 7 students, se ng targets and having a real posi ve impact on their developing literacy. Sixth Formers can opt to be reading leaders, a great opportunity to develop key skills.
Y13 Des na ons 2015 Leeds College of Music Music Business
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Kingsmead School Kings Avenue Hednesford Stas WS12 1DH Tel: 01543 512455 Fax: 01543 512481 Email: sixthform@kingsmeadschool.net Senior Leader - Post 16: Mrs D Pritchard