KES Sixth Form Guide 2024-2025 by King Edward VI School

King Edward VI School

SIXTH FORM 2024 -2025

KING EDWARD VI SCHOOL

Contents From the Director of Sixth Form

Chemistry

Sixth Form Concourse

Classical Civilisation

Facilities

Computer Science

Admissions

Design and Technology

Financial Assistance

Drama and Theatre Studies

The Academic Curriculum

Economics

Academic Enrichment

English Language

Sixth Form Support and Guidance

English Literature

Sport at Sixth Form

French

The Creative Arts at Sixth Form

Geography

Clubs and Societies

German

Charity Opportunities

History

Duke of Edinburgh Award

Latin

Trips

Mathematics

Leadership Opportunities

Further Mathematics

A Level Examinations Results

Music

Where Next?

Physics

A Level Subject Options

Politics

The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) 33

Psychology

Art and Design – Fine Art

Religious Studies

Art and Design – Photography

Spanish

Biology

Sports Science

Business

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KING EDWARD VI SCHOOL

From the Director of Sixth Form

It is with enormous pleasure that I welcome you to this

the Open Forum programme. All Sixth Formers are

latest edition of our Sixth Form Guide. I hope that the

expected to attend these carefully curated weekly talks

pages that follow inspire you to join us for the most

that seek to widen their understanding and challenge

exciting two years of your education so far. The Sixth

their preconceptions through speakers with interesting

Form at King Edward’s is full of young people that are

and inspiring stories to tell.

full of enthusiasm, that are unafraid of challenge and care enormously about the people and environment

Many of our Sixth Formers choose to stay well beyond

around them.

the end of the school day; to work in the Concourse or

The King Edward’s Sixth Form is unashamedly

production, to use the gym facilities or the Art Studios.

academic. Classes are small and taught by subject

Being a Sixth Former at King Edward’s means being

specialists. You will be encouraged to debate and

inquisitive, ambitious, caring and inclusive. It is the

challenge ideas, have open-minded discussions and

time where you get to specialise academically, develop

explore your subjects in both breadth and depth. We

your independence and challenge yourself personally.

recommend that most pupils start on four A Levels; the majority will narrow to three during their course of study. Many of these will choose to maintain a wider curriculum by embarking on an Extended Project

the Library, to take part in sport or rehearse for a drama

Through all this we seek to support you with outstanding pastoral care. A team of dedicated tutors work with each pupil individually to support

Qualification.

their progress during the Sixth Form, and supported

Our academic curriculum is complimented through the

to support you and help you realise your next steps

Foundation Studies programme. Here all our pupils

beyond our gates.

develop the wider skills needed for future success; a core programme ranges from delivering presentations to personal finance, politics to road-readiness for

by the Careers and Higher Education team, we work

We are incredibly proud of our Sixth Form and welcome you to come and visit us, to see for yourself the

young drivers while optional modules include cookery,

opportunities on offer.

art-appreciation and travel safety. Additionally, we

Dr Emma Thomas Director of Sixth Form

welcome a diverse range of external speakers through

KING EDWARD VI SCHOOL

The Award-Winning Sixth Form Concourse ™

We are delighted to have opened a completely redeveloped 5 concourse for all Sixth Formers in September 2022. The

refurbishment took place during the summer holidays, and provides our Sixth Form students with a modern, versatile and purpose designed hub from which students can work, socialise and relax.

Café The exciting addition of our brand-new café provides students with the chance to make themselves drinks and snacks whenever they’re in need of a pick-me-up. The café also operates a ‘grab and go’ lunch service, providing those who sign up to school lunches the choice of delicious street food options. The large, open and modern area surrounding the café, provides students with the space to socialise, relax and spend some time away from the rest of the school.

Study Area There is a large dedicated study area. Students can use this during free periods, before and after school and for private study sessions. The space is completely laptop friendly, with printing facilities, ample desk space, individual booths and group tables, perfect for collaborative working.

Facilities Hill Lane King Edward’s has occupied the Hill Lane site since 1938. With over thirteen acres it comprises an extensive range of facilities including a number of additions and major refurbishments completed over the last few years. The site also has a games field, a sports hall, netball courts and a full astro pitch.

Wellington Sports Ground Situated in Stoneham Lane, just ten minutes from the main school site, the Wellington Sports Ground was purchased in 2004 from the University of Southampton. It contains thirty-three acres of grounds, six tennis courts, four netball courts and a water based astro pitch. A large pavilion with eight changing rooms, a kitchen and catering facilities for over one hundred students is also available.

Lovaton The Lovaton Rural Study Centre was purchased in 2004. Located near Yelverton on Dartmoor, it has easy access to the moor, and was converted to provide an offsite facility for twenty-four students including accommodation, a refectory, a study area and a drying room. It is used as a base for the Duke of Edinburgh Award as well as for academic study weekends and fieldwork.

Library The library is the heart of the school. Recently fully renovated, this bright, popular space can be used for study, reading, meeting like-minded peers and joining our Library Leader team. Spread over two floors, the library area provides a mix of formal work space and comfortable quiet reading areas, home to over 15,000 books, including fiction, non-fiction, magazines and academic texts.

The Dobson Theatre Opened in 2017, the Dobson Theatre is a modern, versatile space designed to host a diverse programme of events for the school. The Dobson Theatre is frequently used for theatre, music, dance and presentations/ lectures.

Classrooms There are 92 classrooms available to students at our Hill Lane site. All classrooms are large and fully equipped with technology and facilities to assist students’ learning, including science labs, dedicated music practice rooms, recently extended art studios and ICT rooms.

Fitness Suite Sixth Formers have the opportunity to develop physically through the use of our brand new fitness suite. All students are inducted on how to use age appropriate movements and equipment in the facility and this gives them the opportunity to attend the fitness suite during lunch times, in free periods and after school. Students are educated on how to develop their own training programmes, as well as having access to specialist 1:1 advice from the Head of Strength and Conditioning. There are also weekly fitness classes run in the suite that aim to challenge students to ensure they reach their physical ambitions.

Wellbeing Centre The Wellbeing Centre connects all of the relevant areas of the school for enhancing the students’ wellbeing: learning support, the counsellor, the chaplain, the nurses, and a dedicated wellbeing room. The wellbeing room has been designed to be a quiet, safe space in the heart of the school where any student can go when they need to get away from the hustle and bustle of school life. The extra comfy chairs and bean bags are ideal for our Peer Support programme, in which students offer their time to talk to younger students and offer support.

Admissions & How to Apply Internal Candidates If you have successfully completed your GCSE courses of study in the Upper School here, we expect you to be able to make the transition to our Sixth Form. However, in making your A Level choices, remember to choose subjects that you enjoy, that you are good at and that are in line with your intentions for higher education. Under normal circumstances students must have at least three GCSEs at grade A/7 and at least three at grade B/6 or higher. Additionally, we expect all students to have achieved a minimum of C/4 grade in both English Language and Mathematics.

If you intend to take a new subject in the Sixth Form, you should have done well at GCSE level in an equivalent subject. The school’s policy is that we would normally expect a student to have a B/6 or higher at GCSE in the relevant subject or its near equivalent unless there are mitigating factors. An A/7 is preferable, however, and in a number of subjects such as Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics and Modern Foreign Languages it is the expectation of the school that a student achieves at least an A/7 at GCSE. This is to ensure that the student’s knowledge and skills are at a sufficient level to allow access to the subject in the King Edward’s Sixth Form and to offer the realistic prospect of a successful outcome at A Level.

Advice Talk to your subject teacher before committing yourself to a particular A Level, and talk to your tutor about your intended combination of Sixth Form courses.

Transition from Lower to Upper Sixth The continuation of a subject into the Upper Sixth is dependent on achieving a pass grade in the Lower Sixth examinations. Students must study a minimum of three courses to full A Level. General queries about the Sixth Form curriculum should be addressed to Dr Waymark either by emailing bmw@kes.hants.sch.uk or by calling 023 8070 4561.

External Candidates If you have successfully completed your GCSE courses of study at your present school, we expect you to be able to make the transition to our Sixth Form. However, in making your A Level choices, remember to choose subjects that you enjoy, that you are good at and that are in line with your intentions for higher education. All students must have at least three GCSEs at grade A/7 and at least three at grade B/6 or higher. Additionally, we expect all students to have achieved a minimum of C/4 grade in both English Language and Mathematics.

If you intend to take a new subject in the Sixth Form, you should have done well at GCSE level in an equivalent subject. The school’s policy is that we would expect a student to have a B/6 or higher at GCSE in the relevant subject or its near equivalent. An A/7 is preferable, however, and in a number of subjects such as Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics and Modern Foreign Languages, it is the expectation of the school that a student achieves at least an A/7 at GCSE. This is to ensure that the student’s knowledge and skills are of a sufficient level to allow access to the subject in the King Edward’s Sixth Form and to offer the realistic prospect of a successful outcome at A Level.

The Admissions Process Senior members of staff and subject specialists will interview Sixth Form candidates at the beginning of March. As a result of these interviews, and on the basis of a candidate’s potential GCSE results, either conditional or unconditional offers of a Sixth Form place may be made. To learn more about joining our Sixth Form and to request an application pack, contact our registrar, Mrs Sheppard by emailing registrar@kes.hants.sch.uk.

Key Dates Sixth Form Information Evening Thursday 19 October 2023 This event is a perfect chance for Year 10 and Year 11 students and their families to learn more about the wide range of A Level courses available at King Edward’s. You can also explore our fantastic facilities.

Sixth Form Tea Thursday 30 November 2023 The Sixth Form Tea is an opportunity for prospective Sixth Form pupils to meet with staff and students in school for the afternoon and find out a little more about life at King Edward’s.

Closing Date for Applications Monday 5 February 2024 Sixth Form Interviews Saturday 9 March 2024 Sixth Form Offers Emailed Friday 15 March 2024

Deadline for Acceptances Wednesday 27 March 2024

General queries about the Sixth Form curriculum should be addressed to Dr Waymark either by emailing bmw@kes.hants.sch.uk or by calling 023 8070 4561. 11

Financial Assistance Sixth Form Fees Fees

Lunches

The fee for 2023-2024 is £19,995 per annum all-inclusive with a 5% reduction for brothers and sisters who are not receiving any bursary awards. For the convenience of parents, this annual fee is divided into three termly payments of £6,665. All sports, sport fixtures, societies and clubs are included within the fee. The only exception is Sailing Club, which requires a £60 yearly membership fee, Paddle Boarding, which is pay as you go and curriculum trips, which are subsidised. Optional extras include: lunches, school bus, insurance, instrumental tuition, residential trips and tours.

For 2023-2024, the cost of lunch is £5.70 per day. For that price, students have a choice of salads, soups, sandwiches, hot dinners, vegetables and desserts. Alternatively, students can opt for a ‘grab and go’ lunch from the Concourse café.

Financial Assistance in the Sixth Form External Candidates Bursaries The school offers a number of means-tested bursaries each year to pupils entering the Sixth Form. Bursaries will have a maximum value of 100% of the full fee which would value them at £19,995 in 2023-2024. In addition to taking account of all relevant sources of income, the school takes account of relevant capital assets. Applicants should note that subject to your capital assets, if your gross family income is below approximately £40,000 you may qualify for a full bursary. If your gross family income is in excess of approximately £85,000 you would not qualify for any assistance. Between these two figures a sliding scale will operate. This scale is subject to annual review. Once awarded, the entitlement to a bursary will remain with a pupil throughout his or her time at the school subject to the standard bursary terms and will be reviewed annually.

Frank Misselbrook Award for Economics and Business This award will, in the first instance, be awarded to an applicant who will be studying Economics and/or Business in the Sixth Form at King Edward’s and can be up to 100% of the fee for both years. The family income need not come within the requirements for a formal bursary but we will need to establish with parents that financial assistance is justifiable. 12

Sir Edward Abraham Memorial Award for Chemistry and Biology Awards of up to 25% non means-tested can be allocated to a student from the state sector who is studying Chemistry and/or Biology in the Sixth Form at King Edward’s. This can be in conjunction with a means-tested bursary and the bursarial element of the award will be calculated in accordance with the income levels already quoted.

Internal Candidates

External & Internal Candidates

Academic Scholarships

Sports Scholarships

Academic scholarships are awarded to a limited number of internal pupils moving into the Sixth Form. These are awarded to pupils of the highest academic merit and carry an annual value of up to 10% of the fee. There is no need to apply for an academic scholarship as all Year 11 pupils are automatically eligible for consideration.

Scholarships up to £700* are available for talented sports performers at entry into the Sixth Form. Candidates will have competed at regional level or higher in their chosen sport(s) and will be invited for interview. Members of the Sports Faculty may also ask to observe a fixture or training session. Successful candidates will be invited into the Elite Sports Performer programme and will be expected to demonstrate a high level of commitment to school sport as well as being a role model to other students.

Studentships A number of studentships, with an annual value of up to 20% of the fee, will be available on entry to the Sixth Form for internal candidates. To qualify, a student should be assessed by the school as likely to qualify for entry to the Sixth Form on both academic and personal grounds. The family income need not come within the requirements for a formal bursary but we will need to establish with parents that financial assistance is justifiable. A studentship could be awarded in addition to a scholarship. If you wish to apply for a Sixth Form Studentship of up to 20% fee remission, please contact the Bursar for an application form.

Music Scholarships Sixth Form Music Scholars reflect our most able and highest achieving performers. Scholars gain a wealth of benefit as we prepare young musicians for performance careers and university study. Scholarships up to £1,000* are awarded on audition to successful candidates who will be taking A Level Music. Scholarships will differ depending upon a range of circumstances. Auditions will take place in March. Applicants will be invited and should be performing at grade 8 standard on one or more instruments. The candidates would be required to perform a piece on their first instrument, alongside some oral tests and sight-reading. *The amount will be awarded once, and will be credited over the two years of Sixth Form study.

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The Academic Curriculum

All students study three or four A Level subjects in the Lower Sixth, with the option to continue all four into the Upper Sixth. Alternatively, Upper Sixth students can focus on three subjects for A Level examination which form the basis of nearly all university offers. A Level study is very different to GCSE, and starting with four subjects not only allows for greater breadth of study, but ensures that students can cherry-pick the right combination of three subjects to continue through to the Upper Sixth. Beginning Lower Sixth with three subjects reduces options available to the student, should the A Level subject not match their expectations from GCSE, but is available as an option with additional time spent in supervised study. The majority of students opt to focus their energies on three subjects in the Upper Sixth. Very few university courses require four subjects, although students taking Further Mathematics, which is recommended for the most competitive Mathematics and Engineering courses, will need to continue all four to allow for sufficient academic breadth. The Sixth Form at King Edward’s aims to deliver consistently excellent results in a wide range of subjects. A favourable teacher to student ratio allows us to focus on the individual, and promotes class discussion. Positive relationships with teachers are a feature of the Sixth Form experience, making it an important stepping stone to the world of university and work.

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Academic Enrichment Open Forum During the course of their time with us in the Sixth Form, students will hear from over 40 guest speakers during weekly Open Forum sessions. We invite a range of inspiring individuals into School to talk to the Sixth Formers about their achievements, how they have overcome challenges and what inspires them. Our speakers are explorers, fundraisers, authors, photographers, scientists, mental health champions, military veterans, Holocaust survivors and a former bodyguard to an icon of the twentieth century. We invite speakers from both the local area and further afield and we often hear from Old Edwardians. Each story that our students hear give them an insight into life beyond school, beyond the classroom and beyond their own experiences.

At King Edward’s we believe that students benefit enormously from engaging with more than the A Level syllabus of their chosen subjects. Academic and personal development is enhanced by learning new skills, sharing experiences and striving for ambitious goals. We want our students not just to succeed in their examination courses but also to look beyond Sixth Form to undergraduate study, professional qualifications and career pathways. We encourage our students to think about where they would like to be in 5 years or 10 years and how they can achieve these goals. We have created an academic enrichment programme that offers students plentiful opportunities to both hone fundamental skills, push the boundaries of their intellectual world and experience entirely new fields. There are 5 elements to academic enrichment in the Sixth Form with each element providing a different way in which students’ formal education is complemented by less formal learning.

Lower Sixth Foundation Studies Enabling our students to make a successful transitions from GCSE studies to A level studies and from adolescent to young adult is at the core of our Foundation Studies programme in the Lower Sixth. Here, all students participate in a series of three week courses throughout the whole academic year. These cover areas linked to academic engagement, wellbeing, citizenship and planning for life after KES. These courses are delivered by teaching staff who have particular interest and expertise in these areas as well as some external providers. • Academic Research Methods • Presentations • Health & Sexual Wellbeing • Politics & You

• Student Finance • Living Sustainably • Essential First Aid • Introduction to UCAS • Gap year planning

Upper Sixth Foundation Studies Once our students have successfully navigated their Lower Sixth year, we offer a range of different courses to choose from with the aim to give them an opportunity to try entirely new activities or return to those that they’d like to brush up on. By engaging in creative, physical and practical activities students will enjoy a different type of learning and push themselves to embrace the unfamiliar. In 2023-24, we are offering 20 different courses from which students will chose 5 to participate in during the Autumn and Spring terms. These courses are delivered mainly by KES staff with a particular expertise in that field although we also invite in guest lecturers and agencies to work with our students.

Languages

Arts & Culture

Sport & Fitness

Mental Wellbeing

Community

Practical skills

Science Roadshow

Touch typing

Forest School

KESTED

Volunteering

Survival Cookery

Japanese

A Bluffers’ Guide to Culture

Powerboating

Resilience – turning pressure into performance

Chinese

Photography

Strength & Conditioning

Mental Health First Aid Kit

These courses are for both terms and can lead to an AS qualification.

Holiday Italian

Self Defence

The Story of Film

Navigation & Seamanship

Dungeons & Dragons

Additional Study

Extended Project Qualification

For Upper Sixth and Lower Sixth students studying three A levels, they will have timetabled Additional Study periods. These are different to private study where students are expected to work independently as they are both structured and supervised. During Additional Study periods, students will complete work that is complementary to their A Level course and has been designed by Heads of Departments to both enhance and consolidate the work required by the formal syllabus. Student will have supervision during these lessons to provide them with guidance and support for this super-curricular A level work.

All students have the option to undertake the Extended Project Qualification which is equivalent to half an A level once completed and assessed. Students chose a research topic in the Lower Sixth and are supported to frame this into a specific line of enquiry that they commence research for in the Summer Term. Upon return in September of the Upper Sixth, students are allocated a supervisor to support them through the process to completion in the Spring Term. Each supervisor is responsible for a small group of students enabling them to build strong working relationships and give personalised guidance. In recent years the topics researched have been hugely varied: the historical accuracy of Les Miserables, gene therapy as a treatment for macular degeneration, human rights and secret courts, contemporary Japanese literature and sustainability in fashion. Full details of this course can be found on page 33. 17

KING EDWARD VI SCHOOL

Sixth Form Support and Guidance Counsellor

Tutors

Sixth Form Pastoral Team

We have an experienced counsellor in school everyday. Students can book a confidential slot with the counsellor for support, whether it’s school related or not.

Your tutor will play a key role in your time at King Edward’s Sixth Form. Your tutor will get to know you well, monitor your progress and support and guide you. You’ll have time with your tutor four mornings a week.

Your Head of Year has an office in the Concourse and is available every day before school, and at numerous points throughout the day, to talk to you about any aspect of your school life or academic, personal and social development. They will offer practical and emotional support throughout your two years in the Sixth Form.

School Nurses We have a team of school nurses on-site throughout the school day. Students can pop in and see the nurses at any point.

Chaplain Our Chaplain offers the opportunity for an informal chat for those of all faiths and none.

Curriculum Support All students at King Edward’s have, as a matter of principle, equal access to the school’s curriculum, notwithstanding any disability or identified learning difficulties. Sixth Form students, who have been assessed with a Specific Learning Difficulty and are on the Curriculum Support Register, will be monitored and their provision based around their SEN reviewed annually. Examples of support that can be offered by Curriculum Support include: study skills, literacy and social emotional intervention.

Careers & Higher Education Support We have an experienced team dedicated to supporting each student during their time with us. A flexible work experience programme is available to all students, providing an insight into an array of possible careers; subject-specific and career-specific Careers Conferences are advertised regularly; Sixth Form Careers lunches provide students with the opportunity to meet people in different occupations (medicine, law, IT, engineering, science, finance, media, etc) and begin networking, whilst the Foundation Studies programme of short courses offers insight into different aspects of preparation for life after King Edward’s such as presentation skills and basic budgeting. The annual HE and Careers Fairs provides students with the chance to meet representatives from most of the top 25 UK universities, plus the Armed Forces, gap year companies, Apprentice Organisations and employers. Representatives are available for information and advice on choosing both a higher education and specific subject options at university. In the Summer Term Lower Sixth students take part in our Careers programme where they receive external support for building CVs and a digital work profile. All members

of the Sixth Form will undergo a ‘work-place’ practice interview and more tailored practice interviews are offered to all those requiring them for university applications or work experience. In the Summer Term, University Open Day visits are arranged. Students considering Higher Education are strongly urged to view potential institutions. Towards the end of the academic year the Lower Sixth are introduced to the central UK university applications programme, UCAS APPLY and are encouraged to research various courses or other options that appeal to them. Students attend Personal Statement workshops to gain a better understanding of how to write the best personal statement of their own and advice is given to all members of the Lower Sixth on the whole application process. Through the year students are also introduced to other possible HE routes other than attending a UK university such as studying abroad or doing a Higher or Degree level apprenticeship. Informal careers advice continues to be given throughout the Upper Sixth Year as students progress through the university application process and during the Summer holidays, a Post Results Clinic is available to offer advice to those candidates on receipt of their A Level results.

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Sport at Sixth Form Taking part and competing in sporting activities is a big part of life at Sixth Form, and we believe it’s important to follow a path of commitment, preparation and hard work. Beyond the two weekly timetabled Games lessons Sixth Formers participate in, students have the opportunity to represent the school in sport. Competitive fixtures usually take place on Saturdays at Wellington, or at the competitor school’s location. Students involved in competitive fixtures are expected to attend after school training sessions, and will practise the sport during Games lessons.

The major competitive sports are rugby, hockey and cricket for boys, and hockey, netball and cricket for girls. Each of these sports also enter national cup competitions and have had good success in recent years. There is also a boys’ football team, that competes in the local Sixth Form College league, with fixtures taking place in the timetabled Games lessons. There are also opportunities to compete in other sports, including badminton, tennis and basketball, although these are less frequent.

Elite Sports Performer Programme There are over 50 students at King Edward’s who are competing in their chosen sport at a regional level or higher. The Elite Sports Performer Programme aims to provide these students with an additional support system, to assist them in achieving their potential in their sporting field whilst also fulfilling their academic potential. Students who are invited on to the programme will receive mentoring support that works alongside the whole school pastoral system as well as access to the fitness facilities, tailor-made training programmes (if required) and an invitation to a series of talks from visiting speakers that cover a wide range of topic areas that are relevant to sports performance at a high level. Students will also have the chance to present to younger students in the school about their sporting achievements. Our Elite Performers are fortunate to receive expert Strength and Conditioning advice in the form of a series of workshops and personalised 1:1 sessions. Students are taught how to move effectively in Strength and Conditioning sessions, the sessions also provide the athletes with a personalised training programme. 20

The Elite Sports Performer Programme supports our Elite Sports Performers in achieving both their sporting and academic potential, through: • Assisting our Elite Sports Performers in managing their time between training, competing, resting and studying • Liaising with their coaches • Communicating with their subject teachers at King Edward’s and making them aware of their commitments to their sport throughout the week / weekend • Assisting in their short term and long-term goal setting • Offering students Strength and Conditioning workshops to help minimise risk of injury • Supporting the Elite Sports Performers throughout their potential rehabilitation processes • Increasing awareness of sporting issues through a series of talks and visits

KING EDWARD VI SCHOOL

The Creative Arts at Sixth Form

The Creative Arts Faculty champions opportunity in the arts. Engaging creatively, building core strengths and qualities. Enabling our community to expand intellectual curiosity through the Creative Arts and embedding the value of creativity in the culture of King Edward’s is what we celebrate!

“Creativity is now the number one soft skill companies are looking for three years in a row”. Julia-Cristina Uta, Brand Minds Creative Arts will give you skills like resilience; problem solving; confidence through performing; critical thinking; community and social collaboration; well-being; organisation; team work and creative thinking, the list goes on and on. Our programme offers exceptional choice and opportunity to match intellectual curiosity. Whether you have a passion for photography, musical theatre, or dance, we encourage everyone from enthusiasts to experts to get involved. The Drama department boasts fantastic opportunities in Sixth Form for productions and a dedicated Sixth Form play in the Spring Term. The Dobson Theatre is well equipped for those not only with an interest in dramatic performance to engage but production, behind the scenes lighting and sound tech. The Dobson Theatre also houses our Steinway concert grand piano, used for our many concerts, recitals and masterclasses as part of the Music Department’s annual programme. With three orchestras, a big band, chamber choir and many chamber ensembles classical and jazz musicians can immerse themselves in our programme. Rock and pop performers too can make the most of our recording studio and Battle of the Bands annual competition.

The newly expanding and vibrant Dance Department has a purpose-built dance studio. Promoting inclusivity and encouraging self expression through the dance programme. The spectacular annual Dance Gala is a showcase of solo and group talent. Clubs offer a diverse range to suit interests from tap, street to music theatre. Art has a purpose-built studio, with an open-door policy, inventive imagination is greatly encouraged and Sixth Form have opportunities for life drawing as well as the rich art and photography clubs available. The Creative Arts make links with charity and local primary school partnerships. It can open the door for Sixth Form to get involved in community projects, or using projects for the Duke of Edinburgh Award skills section.

Music Scholarships Sixth Form Music Scholars reflect the most able and highest achieving of our performers here at King Edward’s. Scholars gain a wealth of benefit unique to King Edward’s as we prepare young musicians for performance careers and university study. Scholarships are awarded on audition to successful candidates who will be taking A Level Music. Scholarship offers comprise of financial support towards the cost of instrumental or vocal lessons. Scholars receive showcase concert opportunities, masterclasses, trips and lecture series invitations for elite musicians. Destination of A Level musicians and Scholars have included: Birmingham Conservatoire (Jazz Performance), Oxford, Cambridge, Royal Academy of Music, Trinity College of Music, Royal College of Music, Royal Northern College of Music, KCL, Brunel and Bristol.

“I came to KES only knowing a few people, but through music soon became friends with people who share the same passion”. - King Edward’s pupil

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Clubs & Societies There is something to suit everyone in the clubs and societies offering at King Edward’s. Sixth Formers, particularly, take a leading role in running our engaging offering. You can run clubs, choose guest speakers, give presentations, dress up as historical figures, you name it! Opportunities for leadership outside the classroom through clubs and societies is your chance to explore passions and talents whilst growing your skill set. If you want to try your hand at podcasting, now is your chance. Where a society does not yet exist, we will support you in setting one up. Clubs & Societies include: Biological and Anatomical Drawing Club, Big Band, Cactus Club, Ceilidh Dance Club, Chamber Music Ensembles, Chamber Orchestra, Chamber Choir, Charities Commission, Chemistry Club, Chess Club, Classical Society, Classical Greek Club, Cyber Ambassadors, Debating & Public Speaking Society, Digital Leaders, Diversity Society, Drama Club, Feminist Society, Economics Discussion Group, Economics Society, Football, French Conversation Club, French Film Club, Geography Society, German Conversation Club, Greenpower, Historical Society, Hockey, Life Drawing, Linguistics Olympiad, Literary Society, Booker Prize Reading Challenge, Medical Society, Paddleboarding Club, Politics Society, Psychology Society, Sailing Club, School Council, Spanish Conversation, Spanish Film Club, Stage Crew, Stage Makeup Club, Sustainability Action Group, Swing Band, Symphony Orchestra, Wargaming.

Charity Opportunities

school life in which everyone gets involved, but where the Sixth Form take the helm. There are three Sixth Form charity projects that take place at King Edward’s. Portsmouth Down Syndrome Association (PDSA) is a charity committed to improving the lives of children and families, our students often run activity sessions for the group and join them on various trips and days out. Summer Camp, which is a residential camp run by the Sixth Form for children who are young carers. Lastly, the Partnerships Project (POP) where the Sixth Form run a range of exciting activities for the students from local Primary Schools with special educational needs.

The student-led Charities Commission is a huge part of school life, with a large number of members at any one time, they encourage the entire school to be involved in awareness campaigns and fundraising activities. The students are active members of the school community, willing to use assemblies as an opportunity to educate their fellow students on topical issues and campaigns the school should be aware of. The commission runs a myriad of events throughout the academic year and in recent years they have raised c.£10,000 annually. It is a part of 24

All three of these opportunities create unforgettable memories for both Sixth Form students and the children involved. These projects are a two-year commitment, and students are required to be creative and come up with successful fundraising ideas so these projects can go ahead. Summer Camp’s residential camp and the Partnerships Project’s day activities take place in July. PDSA activity days take place at the end of August. All projects allow firm friendships to build and invaluable life skills to be established.

Duke of Edinburgh Award

Within the Sixth Form there will usually be around 100 students engaged in the Duke of Edinburgh Awards; some completing their Silver Award, and others already making progress on their Gold Awards.

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is a pathway to leadership, teamwork, communication, independence, growth, confidence and achievement. It is also highly valued by universities and employers.

The Duke of Edinburgh programme is hugely valued at King Edward’s, and plays a big part in the co-curricular programme. We actively encourage students to engage with the scheme, to stretch and challenge themselves in ways that help them develop personal qualities that will serve them so well in adult life. School clubs and societies help participants achieve their Volunteering, Physical and Skills sections and we have a well-stocked, and free to loan equipment store, to support students. This means that with your own boots and clothing, we can equip you with the best quality outdoor gear, so that you are ready to get out there and achieve! We have a full time Duke of Edinburgh Manager to facilitate students’ progress, and the school’s Rural Study Centre at Lovaton is often a support base for Silver expeditions on Dartmoor. Our Gold expeditions will venture further afield to the mountains and hills of Wales and the Lake District, all staffed in-house by our qualified and dedicated team. If you are coming to King Edward’s already armed with a Silver Award, you can enrol straight away onto the Gold programme, otherwise the Silver award is easily within your grasp during your Lower Sixth Year. 25

KING EDWARD VI SCHOOL

Trips Every year our Sixth Form students get multiple opportunities to go global, to learn outside of the classroom and enhance their understanding of chosen subjects and the world. Language students have the opportunity to go and practise their language skills in France, Germany and Spain. We’ve taken Creative Arts students on tours in Paris, Prague, Austria and New York. Students studying any of the art subjects frequently visit museums, galleries and theatres internationally and locally, from Greece to Brighton, London to Southampton! In addition, there is a comprehensive Sports Tour programme. Recent tours include a multi-sports tour to South Africa, netball in the Caribbean, rugby in the USA and Canada, and cricket in India, Sri Lanka and Spain. There’s also a regular ski and snowboarding trip for anyone to attend and frequent expeditions, which have previously taken place in India, Thailand, Cambodia and Alaska. Biologists, and anyone interested can join Operation Wallacea for two weeks of scientific research. Previous locations have included Indonesia, Mexico, Honduras, Madagascar and the Galapagos. Biology and Geography students will have a few residential days of fieldwork in the Lower Sixth. Lastly, students taking part in the Duke of Edinburgh award will take part in a residential trip, which is detailed on page 25.

Leadership Opportunities

Throughout Sixth Form, students have the chance to build and practise leadership skills. There are formal and informal roles of responsibility for students to get involved with. Leadership positions such as Head and Deputy Heads of School, Senior Prefects (known as ‘Prepositors’), Lower School Prefects, Wellbeing Prepositors, and Heads of Houses are open to all by application. Different roles have different responsibilities attached, and all students are encouraged to put themselves forward for those roles where they think they can build skills, add value and have some fun. Some Prepositors will be attached to specific year groups in the school, working closely with staff to support and mentor young students as well as helping organise events such as parents’ evenings. Other Prepositors take a leadership position in a whole school area, such as Charities, Partnerships, Sustainability, or Creative Arts.

All Sixth Formers in positions of responsibility get to work closely with teaching staff; including regular meetings with senior staff to provide a student voice in the school’s decision-making process. Sixth Formers also take the lead in a host of activities, from heading up academic societies to helping run and organise school events. Training days take place for those with formal leadership positions, and all students benefit from developing a range of soft skills during their time in Sixth Form. An important part of the selection process for leadership roles is to what degree students take up opportunities to help the school community in their Lower Sixth year. For example, Lower Sixth students are invited to train as peer supporters and offer up their time to younger students in the Wellbeing Centre. Additionally, there are activities like the Charities Commission and a range of diversity societies such as FemSoc and Multicultural Society that help promote worthy causes and offer opportunities to deliver assemblies.

Lower School Prefects join in and lead group base activities for younger students and may accompany them on team building trips. Heads of House take responsibility for galvanising the House, picking teams and encouraging participation in the best spirit. 27

KING EDWARD VI SCHOOL

A Level Examination Results 2023 A Level Results i. 56.5% of all exams taken were awarded a A* or A grade in 2023

ii. 94.5% of students achieved A*-C at A Level in 2023

SUBJECT

Ent

A*- A%

A*- B%

A*- C%

A*-E%

Art & Design

71.4%

100.0%

Biology

53.1%

87.5%

100.0%

Business

70.0%

100.0%

Chemistry

50.0%

81.6%

100.0%

Classical Civilisation

33.3%

100.0%

Computer Science

20.0%

30.0%

70.0%

100.0%

Design & Technology

16.7%

83.3%

Drama

28.6%

71.4%

100.0%

Economics

72.4%

86.2%

100.0%

English Language

45.5%

90.9%

100.0%

English Literature

66.7%

83.3%

91.7%

100.0%

French

57.1%

85.7%

100.0%

Further Mathematics

100.0%

Geography

87.5%

100.0%

German

75.0%

100.0%

History

46.2%

100.0%

Latin

100.0%

Maths

60.4%

79.2%

90.6%

100.0%

Music

33.3%

100.0%

Photography

40.0%

80.0%

100.0%

Physics

51.9%

70.4%

77.8%

100.0%

Politics

58.3%

83.3%

100.0%

Psychology

39.1%

78.3%

95.7%

100.0%

Spanish

75.0%

100.0%

Sports Science

75.0%

87.5%

100.0%

TOTALS

347

120

56.5%

82.7%

94.5%

99.7%

Extended Project (EPQ)

71.4%

100.0%

2022

335

124

108

69.3%

86.9%

96.1%

100.0%

2021 (TAG)

381

132

130

68.8%

92.7%

98.4%

100.0%

2020 (CAG)

370

123

110

63.0%

87.3%

97.3%

100.0%

2019

328

49.7%

79.9%

94.8%

100.0%

Previous Cohort Totals

Where Next?

Our Sixth Form at King Edward VI School equips students with the knowledge, passion and drive to continue their learning in Higher Education and beyond. The following provides an overview of typical university destinations, courses and paths our students follow after Sixth Form. This data is based on our 2022 leavers in which there were 108 in the year group, 45 took a gap year of which 26 applied for a PQA, 19 applied for a deferred place in 2023 start (rather than 2022).

University Destinations In 2022, 63% of students went on to study at a Russell Group University.

Popular University Courses The most followed course that our Sixth Form students went on to study at University in 2022 was Engineering (all types) with twelve students enrolling onto Engineering degrees. Medicine, Psychology, Business (all types), History and Liberal Arts were also popular degree courses that our students followed post-Sixth Form in 2022. Students also went on to study courses as diverse as Product Design, Film Production, German, Pharmacology and Politics.

A Level Subject Options Contents The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) 33

Geography

Art and Design - Fine Art

German

Art and Design - Photography

History

Biology

Latin

Business

Mathematics

Chemistry

Further Mathematics

Classical Civilisation

Music

Computer Science

Physics

Design and Technology

Politics

Drama and Theatre Studies

Psychology

Economics

Religious Studies

English Language

Spanish

English Literature

Sports Science

French

KING EDWARD VI SCHOOL

The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) ‘The Director of Admissions at Cambridge has praised the EPQ for developing insight, clarity of thought, and analytical ability’.

Skills Required Should you wish to undertake an EPQ, you should be confident that you can study independently, manage your own time and meet deadlines throughout a long project. You should have an interest in a particular field that can be refined into a research hypothesis. Most students decide to further research into an area of one or more of their existing academic subjects. Alternatively, the EPQ is an excellent way of proving interest in an area that a student wishes to study at university but that is not being taken at A Level, for example Law, Medicine or

Course Overview

Architecture.

In addition to the core A Level subjects, students are encouraged to undertake an Extended Project especially when students drop down to three subjects. The Extended Project Qualification offers an opportunity to explore in depth an area of academic interest to you, leading to an AS Level qualification graded up to A*. The EPQ usually takes the form of a dissertation, but it is also possible to base it around a performance, work of art, experiment or field study. There are very few restrictions on the subject matter, and the choice is down to the individual student in consultation with their appointed supervisor or the EPQ coordinator.

Lower Sixth

Upper Sixth

During the Lower Sixth, students will have specific Foundation Studies lessons in reading, research and academic referencing. From January, students will have access to online resources and be guided through independent tasks to help choose a suitable project. From this point, students are encouraged to formulate a research question on a specific topic. Once this question has been drafted it is submitted for approval prior to the summer holidays so that work on the project can begin before students commence the next academic year.

In the Autumn Term of the Upper Sixth, students are assigned a supervisor and attend EPQ sessions in place of Foundation Studies. Students are expected to work independently towards specific deadlines set by their supervisor. The final deadline is the February half term of the Upper Sixth. On completion of the project all students also deliver a short presentation, which forms part of the final assessment.

Methods of Assessment The work is marked internally and moderated externally by Edexcel, the awarding body. 100% of students have achieved A*-C in the time the project has been running. The project requires high levels of personal interest and motivation and the majority of students who complete it achieve grades of A*-A.

Any student can decide to study for the Extended Project, and the school strongly recommends it for those applying to competitive universities who are not continuing with four subjects in the Upper Sixth.

Why take this course? The EPQ will allow you to research an area of interest in depth, give you a forestate of undergraduate study and demonstrate to universities that you may have many of the skills they require. For example, it shows admissions tutors that: • You are interested in your subject and academic work in general • You are willing and able to take on additional study • You have developed important undergraduate study skills: academic research, independent study, planning, critical thinking, reflection / selfevaluation and delivering a presentation summarising your conclusions. The Director of Admissions at Cambridge has praised the EPQ for developing insight, clarity of thought, and analytical ability. They along with many senior admissions tutors, encourage candidates to undertake one. Some universities will also make modified Higher Education offers to students, for example accepting a lower than usual grade in an A Level subject, when accompanied by a strong EPQ result.

EPQ Co-Ordinator: Mrs S Burt - sb@kes.hants.sch.uk

KING EDWARD VI SCHOOL

Art and Design - Fine Art Skills Required

‘Others have seen what is and asked why. I have seen what could be and asked why not’. – Pablo Picasso

We welcome the opportunity to see students’ past work in the form of a portfolio.

Why take this course? Pathways to further study of Art, Design, Photography, Careers in Fine Art, Curating, Journalism, Architecture, Surveying, Web Design, Graphic Design, Photography.

Course Overview The AQA Fine Art course at King Edward’s offers a step up from GCSE into a world where you will experiment and try new ways of working, hopefully to broaden your approach to the subject. This might be through our life drawing classes or simply working on a scale never attempted before. The Lower Sixth course is experimental in design and leads to a more specialised approach at full A Level. Flair is vital

as is a willingness to try new things and a broad-minded approach to the creative process. Throughout the Art A Level course, students will have the opportunity to visit London galleries and masterclass talks. We also frequently invite artists into the school, to give insight into working as a professional artist.

Lower Sixth

Upper Sixth

During the first year of this course, you will have the opportunity to experience drawing, painting, printmaking, and photography.

Personal Investigation

Externally-set Assignment

(worth 60%)

(worth 40%)

This is a practical investigation, supported by written material. Students are required to conduct a practical investigation into an idea, issue, concept or theme, supported by written material. The focus of the investigation must be identified independently by the student and must lead to a finished outcome or a series of related finished outcomes.

Students are expected to respond to an externally set range of questions.

This phase provides the basis for one extensive experimental project. Alongside this work, you will be expected to build up evidence of your critical awareness of the wider context of art within culture to complement and inform your practical work

The aim is to produce a significant ‘body of work’ such as you might produce for a gallery exhibition.

Head of Department: Mr G Piggott - glp@kes.hants.sch.uk

This involves a preparation period from February and 15 hour supervised time completed in after Easter. Both portfolios of work are then curated by the students with help from the department in preparation for external moderation.

Art and Design - Photography ‘Photography is all around us and has documented the world and how we interact with it for 170 years. The American documentary photographer Dorothea Lange wisely said “The camera is an instrument that teaches people how to see without a camera’.

Skills Required

Course Overview

Why take this course?

The AQA Photography course will certainly try and do this as well as looking at the social, cultural and artistic context of photography. We have an extensive art and design library with over 3,500 titles. The department has its own IT suite running Adobe Creative Studio as well as an A1 printer and dedicated film scanner. There are also DSLR cameras as well as a range of film cameras including a 5x4 plate camera and a darkroom. Throughout the Photography A Level course, students will have the opportunity to visit London galleries and masterclass talks. We also frequently invite artists into the school,

to give insight into working as a professional artist. Topics covered include: • History of photography • Contextual studies of photography and photographers • The creative application of camera skills • Framing and composition • How to create a narrative • Genres – understanding the different topics from fashion, and street photography to still life and Ai. • How to research a Personal Investigation. • Writing about images • Using a darkroom. Processing and printing. • Use of Adobe Creative Suite.

It is not a requirement to have studied Art at GCSE, but you will need to be self-motivated, as many photographic projects need to be undertaken out of school time. You do not need your own digital or 35mm film camera, although both would be useful.

Pathways to further study of Art, Design, Architecture, Engineering, Interior Design, Art Foundation, Ceramics. Careers in Commercial Art, Sculpting, Interior Design, Theatre Design, Architecture, Animation, Conservation, Restoration.

Lower Sixth

Upper Sixth

During the first year of the course, you will have the opportunity to experience both digital and chemical photographic processes and explore and understand the different genres.

Personal Investigation

Externally-set Assignment

(worth 60%)

(worth 40%)

Students are expected to respond to an externally set range of questions.

This phase provides the basis for one extensive practical project. Alongside this work, you will be expected to build up evidence of your awareness of the context of photography within culture to complement and inform your practical work.

This involves a preparation period from February and 15 hour supervised time. Both portfolios of work are then curated by the students with help from the department in preparation for external moderation.

The aim is to produce a significant ‘body of work’ such as you might produce for a gallery exhibition.

Head of Department: Mr G Piggott- glp@kes.hants.sch.uk

KING EDWARD VI SCHOOL

Biology ‘If you need a reason to think A Level Biology relevant you have not been paying much attention for the last couple of years!’ Course Overview This is a course that has been kept up-to-date, dealing with topics in ways that are easily seen as relevant to everyday life. We teach Edexcel Biology A, which maintains the best of the Salters Nuffield approach. The course aims to: use topical contexts; be accessible, yet intellectually demanding; emphasise application of knowledge; integrate activities and practical work throughout the course; make use of a full range of teaching and communication approaches and use student-centred, novel activities that show how biologists think and work in their professional lives. Each student has an individual account with ‘Pearson Active Learn’ which allows you to work at your own pace, using interactive resources. Students can easily follow interests using the links and resources provided. The department also uses a range of data-logging equipment to go along with more traditional practical work, including dissection.

Practical work is fully integrated into the units, with the use of living materials as a central focus of the activities. It includes practical study of a variety of living organisms, including humans and other animals, plants and microorganisms. The approach mirrors the aims of the course, where investigation and process are emphasised rather than prescriptive methods. With the removal of practical coursework from A Level it is worth noting that every other exam board has now adopted the idea of ‘core practicals’, which has been a hallmark of our A Level for many years.

Skills Required You will find, with other subjects, that A Level is more demanding than GCSE. We ask you to achieve a grade 7 or above in Biology to progress to A level and you will find a good grade in Mathematics and Chemistry a real help to. If you are interested in the subject and want to stretch your intellectual and practical skills then Biology is for you.

Topics covered We follow the Salter’s-Nuffield curriculum which uses a contextbased approach. Each topic uses an overarching theme to link a variety of different biological principles. The Lower Sixth topics are:

The Upper Sixth topics are:

• • • •

• On the wild side • Immunity, infection and forensics • Run for your Life • Grey Matter

Lifestyle, health and risk Genes and Health Voice of the Genome Biodiversity and Natural Resources

Methods of Assessment In the Edexcel A Level course there are now three final examinations, each worth 100 marks.

Paper 1

Paper 2

Paper 3

Covers material from the Lower Sixth course and two A Level units.

“The Natural Environment and Species Survival”

“Energy, Exercise and Co-ordination”

Covers material from the whole course and includes questions based on a pre-released article. “General and Practical Applications in Biology”

Fieldwork remains an important aspect of Biology and several core practical’s require it. We complete a residential course at the end of the Lower Sixth. You will be expected to attend this field trip and there will be a cost for accommodation, meals and transport which is around £180. 36

Head of Department: Dr NC Wortham – ncw@kes.hants.sch.uk

Business ‘The study of business is not just about numbers and strategies; it is about unlocking the potential to create, innovate, and lead. Every successful business you admire today started with an idea and a dream: by immersing yourself in the study of business, you are nurturing your own potential to shape the world with your ideas’. Course Overview The provision of this course should enable you to develop a critical understanding of the internal workings of a business, and of its role in the economy and broader external environment. You will become aware of the effects of business behaviour from a range of perspectives and a variety of organisations. The material studied in the Business course will be suitable preparation for a range of degree courses and careers, especially those related to the worlds of finance and business management.

The course being followed is the AQA Business Specification (7132) and covers the following topics: • What is business? • Managers, leadership & decision making • Marketing management • Operational management • Financial management • Human resource management • nalysing the strategic position of a business • Choosing strategic direction • Strategic methods; how to pursue strategies • Managing strategic change

Business draws material from a range of academic disciplines and with its emphasis on applying knowledge to the real world it adopts a more practical approach than many subjects. The subject has a relevance to our lives that make its study both accessible and useful.

Skills Required During the A Level course you will be introduced to a number of business theories and models, and you will be expected to apply them to real world examples and case studies. You will require a range of skills including decision making and problem solving and where appropriate, the quantification and management of information. You will be expected to read around the subject matter, and to build up a portfolio of examples of current business behaviour. The ability to construct logical arguments and to write essays will involve the development of analytical and evaluative skills. The mathematical and data handling aspects of the course require no more than a competent performance at GCSE Mathematics. In addition to the core lessons, the subject has a thriving Business Society and students take part in competitions such as Makyth Ventures and Tycoon, and where possible we organise trips outside the classroom to further bring the subject to life.

Methods of Assessment Students will be required to sit three papers, which cover all aspects of the course content.

Paper 1 2 hours

Paper 2 2 hours

Paper 3 2 hours

Multiple-choice questions, short answer questions and two essays from a choice of four titles.

Data response questions.

Questions based on a business case study.

Subject Co-Ordinator: Mr MO Laverty – mol@kes.hants.sch.uk

KING EDWARD VI SCHOOL

Chemistry ‘There’s much more to Chemistry than white coats, men with beards, stinky laboratories and explosions’. Mrs Millington, Head of Chemistry From the moment you are born, and throughout your life, you are surrounded by Chemistry - the air you breathe, the food you eat and the clothes you wear are just a few examples.

Skills Required The course is undoubtedly rigorous but also hugely rewarding as you learn more about how reactions work. Because of this, we ask that students obtain a minimum grade 7/A in GCSE Chemistry or Combined Science.

Chemistry is the study of substances; what they are made of, how they interact with each other and the role they play in living things. If you have a passion for discovering how things work, using logic and analytical skills, then Chemistry may be the subject for you..

Course Overview A Level Chemistry gives you the opportunity to develop your appreciation of the topics that you were taught at GCSE level and a chance to find out about new themes and ideas that may have significant impact on society today. Like all A Level subjects, the two-year course will be demanding and rigorous but this should allow you to develop a genuine in-depth understanding of this fascinating science. The specification that we teach at King Edward’s is neatly organised into topics with core practical’s embedded into the teaching. These practicals will cover a variety of experimental techniques and should allow you to gain confidence in your ability to manipulate apparatus and handle hazardous substances. We have five specific Chemistry laboratories that allow us to complete a significant number of practicals during the two-year course.

Topics covered over the two years include: • Atomic Structure • Amount of Substance • Bonding • Redox • Energetics • Organic Chemistry • Transition Metals • Equilibrium • Kinetics • Analytical Techniques

Methods of Assessment Paper 1 (30% weighting)

Paper 2 (30% weighting)

Paper 3 (40% weighting)

Advanced Inorganic and Physical Chemistry.

Advanced Organic and Physical Chemistry.

General and Practical Principles in Chemistry.

Papers 1 and 2 are topic based. Paper 3 will assess across the whole subject and have a practical focus. The three papers will contain the following types of question: • Multiple choice • Short response (2 or 3 marks) • Extended response (5 marks or more)

Calculations will make up about 20% of the whole A Level assessment. 15-20% of the total marks will be on practical based questions.

Head of Department: Mrs LA Millington – lam@kes.hants.sch.uk

Science Practical Endorsement (These are a selection of experiments chosen by the exam board that you need to be confident in; both from a theoretical and practical point of view. They are internally assessed and externally moderated, with a pass or fail awarded. Many universities request a ‘pass’ in the practical endorsement as part of their offer.

Classical Civilisation ‘Classical Civilisation offers students the opportunity to study the archaeology, architecture, art, history, literature, philosophy, politics, social history and religion of the Classical World, and to develop their understanding of their social, historical and cultural contexts’.

Skills Required No language skills are required for Classical Civilisation. Students do not need to have studied the subject at GCSE.

Course Overview We aim to: • develop an interest in and enthusiasm for the ancient world • study classical literature (read in translation), thought and material culture to understand how issues and values relevant to the ancient world are reflected in ancient sources and materials • make connections and comparisons between ancient sources • consider the perspective of the ancient world • develop skills of critical analysis and evaluation

Methods of Assessment Assessment is solely by examination.

Module 1

Module 2

ONE OF:

The World of the Hero

The Imperial Image

An in-depth study of both Homer’s Iliad and Virgil’s Aeneid, looking at the nature of both works, themes such as heroism and the values of Homeric society, and the literary devices of Epic poetry.

A study of the rise and success of the first Roman Emperor, Augustus, using a range of primary sources, with focus on the propaganda surrounding his rule.

• The Politics of the Later Republic 30%

40% 2hrs 20mins

30% 1hr 45mins

1 hr 45 minutes

• Love and Relationships 30% • Greek Religion 30%

Head of Department: Miss Painter – imp@kes.hants.sch.uk

KING EDWARD VI SCHOOL

Computer Science ‘Computing and digital technologies are part of every aspect of our lives. The modern world and our society are being shaped by computers. More than ever we need computer scientists to step up and make the world a better place. Computer science is, above all else, the science of solving problems. No single subject offers more of an opportunity to change the world’.

Skills Required The following are features that make a good computer scientist: • Imagination • Logical thinker • Someone who’s not afraid to be challenged It is also helpful, but not essential, to have some programming experience and/or a solid understanding of mathematics.

Course Overview The OCR Computer Science A Level qualification allows students to understand core academic principles of computer science. Academic principles learned in the classroom are transferred into creating real world systems in an exciting and engaging manner. Our A Level will develop students’ technical understanding and ability to analyse and solve problems using computational thinking. In Lower Sixth, students will be introduced to the fundamental technical principles of computing, computational thinking and problem solving. In Upper Sixth, students will progress to study data exchange, software development, data types, legal and ethical issues. Students will also be

able to build on their computational thinking and problem-solving introduced in Lower Sixth, to include algorithms, programming and thinking abstractly. Every year students get the chance to take part in the Oxford University Computing Challenge. Topics covered: • Components of a Computer • Systems Software • Software Development • Exchanging Data • Networks and web technologies • Data Types • Data Structures • Boolean Algebra • Legal, Moral, Ethical and Cultural Issues • Computational Thinking • Programming Techniques • Algorithms

Lower Sixth

Upper Sixth

Paper 1: (50% weighting)

Paper 1: (40% weighting)

Computing Principles 1 hour 15 minutes

Computing Systems 2 hour 30 minutes

Paper 2: (50% weighting)

Paper 2: (40% weighting)

Algorithms and Problem Solving 1 hour 15 minutes

Algorithms and Programming 2 hour 30 minutes

Head of Department: Mr DG Cutler – dgc@kes.hants.sch.uk

Programming Project (20% weighting)

Internally assessed, externally moderated.

Design and Technology ‘An A Level in Design and Technology offers students the opportunity to develop a wide range of both academic and practical skills in a creative and challenging environment. We aim to foster independence while teaching the principles required to go on to study a variety of higher education courses, including Product Design, Engineering, Architecture, Fashion, Costume Design or a foundation course’. Course Overview

Skills Required Students will be expected to exercise initiative, imagination and resourcefulness in both design and manufacture. The A Level course is available to pupils who have studied a GCSE in Design and Technology, regardless of the individual specialism (resistant materials, textiles, graphics products or any other course). Students who have not studied the subject at GCSE are not excluded; however, they are subject to interview with the Head of the Design and Technology Department.

The department at King Edward’s is a modern well resourced centre which comprises; two multi-material workshops, a dedicated textiles room, an ITC suite and staffing and materials preparation rooms. The Department is well equipped with a wide variety of materials, machinery and processes available. There is full technical support from the department technician for both staff and students. At A level, students will study the OCR Design and Technology Product Design course, this strengthens learners’ critical thinking and problem solving skills within a creative environment, enabling them to develop and make prototypes/products that solve real world problems, considering their own and others’ needs, wants, aspirations and values. The A Level qualification requires learners to identify market needs and opportunities for new products, initiate and develop design solutions and make and test prototypes/products. Learners will acquire subject knowledge in design and technology, including how a product can be developed through the stages of prototyping, realisation and commercial manufacture. This qualification will excite and engage learners with contemporary topics covering the breadth of this dynamic and evolving subject. It will create empathetic learners who have the ability to confidently critique products, situations and society in every walk of their lives now and in the future.

Methods of Assessment Assessment in the Lower Sixth is through ongoing practical and written assessments. Students are given the chance to complete a reduced design and make project. This project and the end of year examination will form the main evidence for the production of UCAS grades. Assessment in the Upper Sixth consists of the NEA (Non Examined Assessment), which is 50% of the final grade. Students have a free choice on both the problem and material area. Additionally, students sit two final written papers to produce the other 50% of the final grade.

Head of Department: Mrs AML Blow - amlb@kes.hants.sch.uk

KING EDWARD VI SCHOOL

Drama and Theatre Studies ‘A vibrant, creative, challenging and stimulating course’.

Skills Required During the course you will undertake practical performance work, as well as studying significant plays and relevant theatre practitioners and genres. You will develop your ability to analyse contemporary productions from the perspectives of actor, director and designer. You will acquire skills such as lighting, set and costume and make-up design. We prefer you to have a good grade at GCSE Drama to take this course, but we do not insist on it. More important is that you have an open and enquiring mind, a genuine interest in theatre, be willing to work collaboratively and have a good work ethic and are prepared to have a go at any challenge we throw at you!

Course Overview Drama allows students to develop theatrical skills that will allow them to perform on stage and create innovative relevant contemporary theatre from a directorial and design perspective. Students studying Drama and Theatre Studies will also hone important life skills such as negotiation, cooperation and time management and improve their abilities in public speaking; presenting information in varied and engaging ways and commanding the attention of an audience. Pupils have gone on to study subjects at degree level including, Medicine, History, English and Philosophy and Drama at top drama schools. Please note that the department will organise a variety of theatre trips throughout the course, of which some will be compulsory to meet the requirements of the examination, and to which students will be asked to make a financial contribution. It is also our expectation that Theatre Studies students will visit the theatre as often as they can in their spare time and will be prepared to read widely around the subject. There will also be extra workshops organised to connect students with contemporary theatre practitioners and professionals.

Methods of Assessment Component 1 Drama and theatre

Component 2 Creating original drama

Component 3 Making theatre

Non-examination assessment

Written examination

40% of the qualification

30% of the qualification

Section A: Drama through the ages

Produce an individual Working notebook documenting the devising process

Formally present Extract 3 to an audience

Section B: 20th and 21st century drama Section C: Live theatre production

Contribute to a final devised, group performance.

Head of Department: Mrs LA Gilmour – lag@kes.hants.sch.uk

Produce an individual Reflective report analysing and evaluating their theatrical interpretation of all three key extracts studied.

Economics Skills Required

Economics is a contemporary, thought provoking and evolving subject that considers various aspects of human behaviour. It is always in the news, unearthing new problems and proposing new remedies. The challenge of learning about something that exerts a considerable influence over your behaviour and life is something students relish and enjoy, and many opt to continue their studies in the subject at university.

During the A Level course, you will encounter the underlying models and theories of Economics and be expected to apply them to various real-world situations. In addition to acquiring a sound knowledge and understanding of the subject matter, you will also need to develop your powers of logical analysis and evaluation. To be successful it will help to keep abreast of current affairs and to read around the subject. The statistical and data handling aspects of the work require no more than a competent performance at GCSE Mathematics. In addition to the core lessons, the subject has a thriving Economics Society and Discussion Group, students take part in regular essay competitions and the Economics Olympiad, and where possible we organise trips outside the classroom to further bring the subject to life.

Course Overview The A level course concentrates on how we behave when faced with the economic problem that the world has too few resources to produce enough goods and services to satisfy all its people. Given this microeconomic problem, choices must be made about what, how and for whom to produce goods and services. Economists study how people, businesses and governments make choices and the consequences of their decisions. The macroeconomic side of the course considers the national and international economy, government economic policies and the trade-offs that exist between inflation, economic growth, unemployment, trade & inequality.

Individuals, firms, markets and market failure

The national and international economy

(microeconomics)

(macroeconomics)

• Economic methodology and the economic problem

• The measurement of macroeconomic performance

• Individual economic decision making • Price determination in a competitive market

• How the macro economy works: the circular flow of income, aggregate demand/ aggregate supply analysis

• Production, costs & revenue

• Economic performance

• Perfect competition, imperfectly competitive markets & monopoly

• Financial marks and monetary policy

• The labour market

• The international economy

• Fiscal policy and supply-side policy

• The distribution of income & wealth: poverty & inequality • The market mechanism, market failure & government intervention in markets

Methods of Assessment Paper 1 2 hours

Paper 2 2 hours

Paper 3 2 hours

Microeconomics data response and essay questions.

Macroeconomics data response and essay questions.

Multiple-choice questions and a case study covering all aspects of the course content.

Head of Department: Mr P Sheppard – ps@kes.hants.sch.uk

KING EDWARD VI SCHOOL

English Language ‘Language is interlaced throughout every aspect of our lives’.

Course Overview As a subject, English Language offers an opportunity to develop a detailed analytical understanding of the way language works, the way it is used and the ways in which it is closely intertwined with social values. The A Level course will enable you to develop a range of skills essential for further education and employment. Studying English Language will help you to acquire a greater technical understanding of how languages work. You will also explore the relationship between language and the development of ideas, beliefs and attitudes; society and social interaction; and the construction of identity.

Skills Required Successful English Language students are inquisitive and open minded, with an interest in exploring how language is used in the world around them. An ability to write creatively is beneficial and students must be prepared to engage in debates and discussions with their peers.

Critical awareness of language not only helps you understand how you express yourself, but also how others use language and for what purposes. You will become a more active and discerning reader and listener, as well as a more skilled, confident writer. Studying English Language at A Level is excellent preparation for Higher Education courses in Linguistics, English Literature, Modern Foreign Languages, Humanities, the Social Sciences and Information Technology. It provides a perfect foundation for careers in journalism and the media, ICT, law, politics, the civil service, teaching and research.

Methods of Assessment During this two-year course, you will prepare for two examination papers and undertake two different pieces of coursework.

Paper 1 Language, the Individual & Society In this part of the course you will develop your skills of linguistic analysis by exploring a wide range of spoken, written, electronic and multimodal texts. You will consider how language is used to create and convey meanings; how language is manipulated to achieve particular aims, and how ideas, people, places and events can be represented in different ways through language. You will also study how young children develop both spoken and written language, exploring the different ideas and theories about how and why this remarkable process takes place.

Paper 2 Language Diversity & Change

Coursework Language in Action

This part of the course explores the two inter-related strands of Language Diversity and Language Change. You will develop your understanding of how language varies according to factors such as gender, ethnicity, social background, geographical location and profession.

ttThe coursework element is vital in enabling you to pursue your individual interests and refine your research and writing skills.

For language change, you will study how and why the English language has changed over time and consider how it may continue to change in the future. Additionally, you will learn about attitudes to controversial issues relating to language diversity and change, and explore contemporary debates surrounding language use today: you will develop your own views through discussion and debate and learn how to express your opinions in writings, in both an informative and entertaining manner.

Subject co-ordinator: Mrs H Arnold – hka@kes.hants.sch.uk

There are two projects; a language investigation and original writing. You will design and conduct a language investigation on a subject of your choice, collecting and analysing your own data independently. In addition, you will create an original piece of writing such as a short story, feature article or blog post, reflecting on your expertise in the analytical commentary.

English Literature ‘Reading literature increases knowledge in an active, intellectually challenging way that other more passive activities cannot do’.

Skills Required You need to have an interest in words, an enquiring mind, and be prepared to share your thoughts with others in the class. An enjoyment of reading is obviously going to be an advantage. We would expect at least a B or 6 at GCSE.

Course Overview A thorough grounding in literature automatically provides knowledge of our literary heritage while at the same time increasing the student’s awareness of cultural values, history, sociology, psychology, and almost every branch of human knowledge. Literary study expands our capacity to sympathise with other human beings, enhances our ability to see and imagine human complexity, and broadens our intellectual horizons by enlarging our power to experience life vicariously. Studying English Literature at A Level allows students to explore texts in more depth than at GCSE. You will be with like-minded students, people who have chosen to do the subject because they enjoy it, which makes the level of debate more intense.

Text studied from: Tragedy: King Lear, Death of a Salesman (Arthur Miller), Tess of the D’Urbervilles (Thomas Hardy)

Crime: The Murder of Roger Ackroyd (Agatha Christie), Atonement (Ian McEwan), Brighton Rock (Graham Greene), The Rime of the Ancient Mariner (Coleridge)

Methods of Assessment

Coursework: there is quite a free choice available, and students this year have written successfully on a range of novels and poems, from poets such as Emily Dickinson or Sylvia Plath to novelists like Charlotte Bronte.

At King Edward’s we take the AQA Literature B Specification.

Paper 1 Literary Genres

Paper 2 Texts & Genres

Coursework: Theory and Independence

2 hours 30 minutes closed book 40% of A Level 75 marks

3 hours open book 75 marks 40% of A Level

50 marks 20% of A Level

Section A: One passage-based question on set Shakespeare text.

Study of 3 texts.

Section B: One essay question on set Shakespeare text. Section C: One essay question linking two texts.

Section A: One unseen Crime passage. Section B: One essay question on a Crime text.

Study of two texts: one poetry and one prose text, informed by study of the Critical Anthology (students have a free choice of one poetry and one prose text). Two essays of 1250-1500 words.

Section C: One essay question on two Crime texts. Head of Department: Dr AJ Schofield – ajs@kes.hants.sch.uk

KING EDWARD VI SCHOOL

French ‘Avoir une autre langue, c’est posséder une deuxième âme’. To have another language is to possess a second soul. - Empereur Charlemagne Studying French in the Sixth Form is extremely rewarding. Students can combine French with a wide variety of subjects and will explore Francophone culture and its rich language through a range of topics and sources.

Skills Required You should aim to begin the course with a firm knowledge of the major verb tenses and forms for both regular and irregular verbs. A working knowledge of the bulk of GCSE vocabulary will also be assumed and an expectation that at least a grade 7 will have been achieved at GCSE.

Course Overview The French Department is a lively and welcoming place to be and the French teachers are dedicated and positive in their approach to students, offering their time generously. French adds to the overall profile of a student and improves a student’s chances of getting into a good university and later into an interesting career. Over the last few years many King Edward’s students have gone on to study French at university or to combine French with an additional subject, including economics, medicine and law. The size of our French classes allows for considerable individual attention and a great deal of lively interaction. Each class has a team of teachers, and students have a 25 minute lesson with our French assistant every week. There are numerous opportunities available to develop linguistic skills, be it in lunchtime workshops, borrowing a French DVD or book, or by taking part in the Sixth Form trip to France. The language facilities are outstanding. The classrooms have interactive whiteboards and students work with their own iPads or laptops using these in lessons to have access

to their digital courses for years 1 and 2 and a wide range of additional information and resources to help support their studies. Students are encouraged to keep up to date with what is going on in the French speaking world.

Methods of Assessment The two main areas of study during the French A Level are; social issues and trends and political, intellectual and artistic culture.

Paper 1 Listening, Reading & Writing

Paper 2 Writing

Coursework Speaking

Students will listen to and read passages from a range of contexts and sources, and answer questions in French as well as non-verbally. There will be text summaries and translation both into and out of French.

Students will answer an essay question in French on both a film and a literary text studied in class.

Students will have a 20-minute speaking assessment, where they will have a discussion around a card based on a theme from the course, and then present and discuss their own research project.

Head of Department: Ms KM Clement – kmc@kes.hants.sch.uk

KING EDWARD VI SCHOOL

Geography ‘Geography: it’s the must-have A Level… it is inherently multidisciplinary in a world that increasingly values people who can work across the physical and social sciences… Geography’s all the rage’. – The Guardian

Skills Required Geography can be taken in combination with either Arts or Science subjects and it is not necessary for students to have studied the subject to GCSE level, although such study does convey certain advantages.

Course Overview A Level Geography provides a contemporary and dynamic opportunity for students to engage with the world around them. The aim is to inspire a love of Geography for lifelong learning, drawing on issues that are relevant to a student’s own learning of the subject in a variety of contexts. The A Level specification has been designed to strengthen geographical and fieldwork skills gained at GCSE and delve more deeply into content. Geography offers students the opportunity to develop their debating and discussion skills, and their statistical and analytical skills as well as applying an evaluative approach in extended writing. There are numerous transferable skills gained through Geography which can be utilised by students across all subjects as well as in their future careers.

Geography is studied by many in order to develop an array of skills, and a depth of knowledge and understanding, which prove essential in the workplace and at university. Students who have studied Geography will have the ability to compose a logical argument and debate issues with confidence and determination. They will approach problems in an investigative and analytical manner, allowing them to look at all aspects of the issue, before drawing supported conclusions, whilst also evaluating any limitations encountered. Those who continue to study Geography as an undergraduate are able to develop these skills further and more than 60% of geography graduates are in full-time employment within six months of graduating, with the most popular areas of work including marketing, the environment, management consultancy and business analysis.

Methods of Assessment There are three examination papers which include a mixture of short answer, medium tariff and extended response questions. There is also an internally assessed and externally moderated independent investigation.

Paper 1

Paper 2

Paper 3

Physical Systems

Human Interactions

This involves the study of: Landscape Systems: Coastal, Glaciated or Drylands. Earth’s Life Support Systems: Tropical Rainforests and Arctic Tundra and the importance of water and carbon to life on earth.

This involves the study of: Changing Spaces; Making Places: Contrasting places at a local scale and understanding economic change and social inequality. Global Connections - Global Systems: Trade in the contemporary world or Global Migration; Global Governance: Human Rights or Power and Borders.

Geographical Debates

1 hour 30 minutes - 22%

Head of Department: Ms TL King – tlk@kes.hants.sch.uk

2 hours 30 minutes - 36%

This involves the study of two of the following debates: Climate Change; Disease Dilemmas; Exploring Oceans; Future of Food; Hazardous Earth.

Non-Examined Assessment Investigative Geography 3,000 - 4,000 words - 20%

This is an internallyassessed and externallymoderated assessment, which is an independent geographical investigation conducted by each candidate based on primary and secondary data. This element of the course includes a compulsory residential field trip.

German ‘The German Advanced Level course at King Edward’s is aimed at keen, successful GCSE students who wish to develop their existing knowledge of the language to a high degree of fluency and to explore a wide variety of aspects of the modern culture of German-speaking countries’. Course Overview There is a strong emphasis on fluency and oral competence and authentic materials are used on topic areas that are chosen to be relevant to young people in a social, vocational, educational, literary or political context. Students receive tuition from two or three teachers in the Lower Sixth. There is full access to IT facilities on the school’s network and the Internet. In addition, students are given time for Directed Study in which they are expected to undertake independent research. There is also a weekly lesson on an individual basis with a language assistant to enhance oral competence. These arrangements allow for thorough coverage of all skill areas and flexibility in meeting the varied needs of the individual student. The more complex grammatical structures required for the Lower Sixth Year are supplied in an intensive structured programme especially designed to bridge the gap between the less rigorous nature of GCSE and the demand for independence expected of the more mature student. The German A Level course is recommended for a variety of students: not only those who wish to make languages the focus of a Higher Education course but also for those who wish to study German in combination with other disciplines. For interested students this is a rewarding and stimulating A Level choice. As well as studying the film ‘Good Bye, Lenin!’ and the play ‘Der Besuch der Alten Dame’, students cover the following topics:

Skills Required The successful A Level student will make full use of our excellent facilities and resources and will embrace all opportunities available in school: borrowing DVDs or library stock and regularly attending their individual speaking sessions with the German Language Assistant. Independence and commitment outside the classroom are a great help.

Aspects of German-speaking society: current trends Artistic culture in the German-speaking world Multiculturalism in German-speaking society Aspects of political life in the German-speaking world

Methods of Assessment The two main areas of study during the German A Level are; social issues and trends and political, intellectual and artistic culture.

Paper 1 Listening, Reading & Writing

Paper 2 Writing

Paper 3 Speaking

Students will listen to and read passages from a range of contexts and sources, and then answer questions in German. They will also translate from both German to English and vice-versa.

Students will answer two essay questions in German on a book and a film studied in lessons.

This consists of two parts: a cardbased discussion covering one of the themes studied and presenting and discussing an Independent Research Project.

Head of Department: Mrs MJ Gorbat – mjg@kes.hants.sch.uk

KING EDWARD VI SCHOOL

History Skills Required

‘A People without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots’. – Marcus Garvey We live in a dramatically changing world and the opportunity that the study of History provides to ground our understanding of the present in the context of the past, and thus to reach a more profound understanding of contemporary issues, is more important than ever. The A Level History course is designed both to engage and excite through the choice of material to be studied and also to encourage contemplation over issues that are immediate to us today.

The aim of the History Department is to present the study of the past in a manner that is both enjoyable and academically stimulating. Above all, A Level candidates must have a real interest in the study of different aspects of the past and a willingness to read both widely and deeply into a period. A generalised knowledge of a period is not sufficient to do well at A Level; you need to read so as to get into the minds, and to understand the motives, of those you are studying.

Course Overview Students study three units for the linear History A Level. All students study the same topics. 1) A “depth study” of American History from 1945-1980“The American Dream: reality and illusion, 1945–1980”. This covers hugely interesting and meaningful topics such as the struggle for Civil Rights, the impact of the Vietnam War and the effects of Watergate. 2) A “breadth study” covering the history of the British Empire from c. 1857-1967. This allows pupils to consider the motivating forces behind British imperialism, the impact of imperialism from the perspective both of the British and those they governed and, finally, the story of decolonisation after 1945. 3) A piece of guided coursework, 4,500 words long, on either the French Revolution or Tudor Rebellions. These topics have been deliberately chosen to appeal to, and matter to, our students. The British Empire topic has never been more relevant to the present day, given the current Black Lives Matter situation and the debate over the Empire that this has created, whilst the issues surrounding Civil Rights in the USA are of universal significance. In addition to this, the American topic fits in well with the US section of the Politics A Level.

Outside of the syllabus, the department offers regular and structured preparation for the EPQ and Oxbridge entry. There is also a popular, pupil-directed Senior Historical Society, now known as the Coundley Historical Society, which meets every fortnight to hear presentations given both by members of the Sixth Form and external speakers. To broaden pupil experience of different topic areas, we run a Sixth Form reading group for the most able A Level historians that meets every term to discuss a book on an issue not covered in the normal A Level themes. In addition, the department runs regular trips to places such as Canterbury, Hampton Court, and the Tower of London. There is also a History and Politics trip to Washington DC every other year.

Methods of Assessment The British Empire and American topics are assessed by 2.5-hour examinations at the end of the course. The coursework unit is introduced in the summer term of the Lower Sixth and is completed by the spring half term, with a series of guidance seminars and one-to-one tutorials being offered.

Head of Department: Mr NJ Diver – njd@kes.hants.sch.uk

Latin ‘Latin A Level offers students the opportunity to develop their language skills along with their appreciation of Latin literature. A highly regarded qualification, it works well with any combination of subjects, including the sciences, dealing with both the logical and the imaginative. The study of Latin leads to a greater understanding and appreciation of our own civilisation and heritage, and is still highly relevant to the world today’.

Skills Required Students must have taken the subject at GCSE.

Course Overview We Aim to: • Further students’ interest in and enthusiasm for the ancient world • develop linguistic skills via translation of a wide variety of Latin authors • develop an interest in, and enthusiasm for, the literary, historical and cultural features of the ancient world via the study of extracts from legal speeches, poetry, or Roman history in the original • develop responses to literary techniques, styles and genres • develop students’ ability to apply an analytical, logical and evaluative response

Methods of Assessment Throughout the year students may expect regular testing of vocabulary and grammar, as well as regular practice of unseen translation.

Paper 1

Paper 2

Paper 3 & 4

1 hour 45 minutes - 33%

1 hour 15 minutes - 17%

An unseen translation

A prose composition / comprehension test

Prose literature paper & Verse literature paper

Preparation for this paper is similar to paper 1.

Students study two prose literature texts in depth.

To prepare for this examination we will cover a range of prose and verse authors for language practice and grammar teaching.

2x 2 hours - 25% each paper

Head of Department: Miss IM Painter – imp@kes.hants.sch.uk

KING EDWARD VI SCHOOL

Mathematics ‘Mathematics has beauty and romance. It’s not a boring place to be, the mathematical world. It’s an extraordinary place; it’s worth spending time there’. – Marcus du Sautoy

Mathematics is the most studied of all A Level subjects, both here at King Edward’s and nationally. Not only is it a challenging and interesting subject to get involved in, it gives students the skills and knowledge to access a wide range of courses for further study. So, not only will it help you get where you’re going, the journey itself is part of the attraction. The more mathematics you know, the better it gets! There are two types of A Level Mathematics courses on offer at Sixth Form, Mathematics and Further Mathematics. Both courses follow the OCR B (MEI) linear specification.

Course Overview These courses have been developed by Mathematics in Education and Industry (MEI) and are assessed by OCR. This is a well-established partnership that provides a firm foundation for curriculum and qualification development. The specifications; • Encourage students to develop a deep understanding of mathematics and an ability to use it in a variety of contexts. • Encourage students to use appropriate technology to

Skills Required Very good algebra skills are required to tackle A level Maths along with the ability to apply the skills in the correct context. You should able to simplify, solve and manipulate algebra and numbers with fluency. Of course, determination to solve problems is essential. A minimum grade 7 at GCSE is required.

deepen their mathematical understanding and extend the range of problems they can solve. • Use pre-release data in statistics to enable students to develop an understanding of working with real data to solve real problems. • Include mathematical comprehension in the assessment to prepare students to use mathematics in a variety of contexts in higher education and future employment. OCR A Level in Mathematics B (MEI) builds from GCSE Level Mathematics and introduces calculus and its applications. It emphasises how mathematical ideas are interconnected and how mathematics can be applied to model situations using algebra and other representations, to help make sense of data, to understand the physical world and to solve problems in a variety of contexts, including social sciences and business. It prepares students for further study and employment in a wide range of disciplines involving the use of mathematics. This is a two-year linear qualification with no optional content. The course can be split into three main areas: pure mathematics, mechanics and statistics.

Methods of Assessment Assessment takes place at the end of the course in the form of three two-hour examinations.

Head of Department: Mr GA Eyssens – gae@kes.hants.sch.uk

Further Mathematics ‘It is impossible to be a mathematician without being a poet in soul’. – Sofia Kovalevskaya OCR A Level in Further Mathematics B (MEI) is both deeper and broader than A Level Mathematics. It is designed for students with a real enthusiasm for Mathematics.

Course Overview As well as building on the algebra and calculus introduced in A Level Mathematics, the A Level Further Mathematics core content introduces complex numbers and matrices, fundamental mathematical ideas with wide applications in mathematics, engineering, physical sciences and computing. Choosing Further Mathematics means that you do a double A Level course in Mathematics requiring you to commit to continuing with four A Levels.

Skills Required A Level Further Mathematics prepares students for further study and employment in highly mathematical disciplines that require knowledge and understanding of sophisticated mathematical ideas and techniques. If you are considering the Further Mathematics course you must not only be very able in Mathematics, but also have a great commitment and enjoyment of the subject.

Methods of Assessment The qualification comprises of one mandatory Core Pure examination of two hours and forty minutes which makes up 50% of the total marks. The non-core content includes different options that can enable students to specialise in areas of mathematics that are particularly relevant to their interests and future aspirations. These include additional mechanics, statistics or pure options as well as numerical methods and modelling with algorithms. Candidates have the choice of one major and one minor optional paper or three minor papers giving them the choice between breadth or depth. Head of Department: Mr GA Eyssens – gae@kes.hants.sch.uk

KING EDWARD VI SCHOOL

Music ‘Without Music, life would be a mistake’. – Friedrich Nietzsche

‘I’m grateful for the experiences I’ve gained that I wouldn’t have been offered elsewhere, they’ve prepared me for the adult world in a way normal academia wouldn’t have’. – Music Scholar

Skills Required Instrumentalists and singers Grade 6 and above are well suited to this course regardless of having taken the subject at GCSE.

Course Overview The A Level Music course imaginatively explores the three musical disciplines: performance, composition and analysis. It is tailored to your strengths as coursework is weighted to the skills you most enjoy. We follow the OCR specifications with 60% coursework and 40% examination. It ranges from baroque to jazz and covers diverse musical interests.

From the six areas of study, we will pick several to suit a given cohort: • Instrumental music of Haydn, Mozart and Beethoven

•

Development in Jazz

• Programme music 1820-1910

• Religious music of the Baroque period

• Innovations in music, 1900-present day

Unit 1 Performing

Unit 2 Composing

Unit 3 Historical Study

Students will give a recital in Upper Sixth, for a duration of 6 to 12 minutes depending on your coursework weighting. The recital can be solo or include ensemble works giving you the best experience. The recital is assessed by audiovisual recording.

Over the course you will complete two compositions, and the coursework accounts for 25% of the A Level. Students will have dedicated composition lessons throughout the course, and for those wanting to showcase their composition, you can include an additional technical exercise to increase the weighting of the coursework to 35%.

This is the only examination aspect of the course assessment, and it represents 40% of the qualification. Students will study a range of music, focusing on 20th century jazz, jazz musicians and 19th century music. Students will also study two works, one classical and one jazz, providing invaluable insight and analytical skill that is a huge benefit to performing musicians.

• Popular Song – blues, swing and big band

Methods of Assessment

Head of Department: Mr AC Eadon – ace@kes.hants.sch.uk

Physics ‘Physics is the study of the most fundamental aspects of the world and universe in which we live, it forms the foundations upon which every other science is ultimately built’. Course Overview Students follow the OCR “B” A-level Physics course endorsed by the Institute of Physics. Many students go onto the higher education studying Engineering and Physics amongst a wide range of other disciplines. Taught simultaneously by a pair of Physics teachers, students experience two strands of the course at once.

Skills Required Physics requires a problem-solving approach and a good level of mathematical ability. Students will commonly take Mathematics A Level concurrently. However, this is not essential. We would expect students undertaking Physics A Level to obtain a minimum grade 7 in GCSE Physics or Combined Sciences.

Fundamental aspects of Physics that underpin later study are covered in the lower sixth with many areas that overlap significantly with IGCSE Physics. This enables the students to make an easier transition to A-level Physics. Topics covered: • Dynamics and Mechanics along with Imaging and Signalling • Sensing and Materials along with Wave and Quantum Behaviour • Exams followed by, beginning U6th studies and research project Upper Sixth: The great strides forward in our understanding of Physics made in the 19th and 20th centuries are covered in detail in the upper sixth along with up-to-date particle physics. • Modelling of radioactivity and capacitance, Cosmology and Special Relativity, the Ideal Gas Laws and Gravity, Circular and Periodic motion. • Electromagnetism, Electric and Magnetic Fields, Atomic and Particle Physics along with Uses of the Atom.

Methods of Assessment Paper 1

2 hours 15 minutes - 41%

2 hours 15 minutes - 37%

Paper 2

Paper 3

Fundamentals of Physics

Scientific Literacy in Physics

Practical Skills in Physics

1 hour 30 minutes - 22%

Practical Endorsement in Physics (non-exam assessment) reported separately.

Head of Department: Mr RS Simm – rss@kes.hants.sch.uk

KING EDWARD VI SCHOOL

Politics ‘With an incredible series of unexpected and unpredictable events at home and abroad in recent years, the study of politics has never been more relevant or more fascinating. This is a great subject for those with enquiring minds and a desire to find out just what is going on in the world today and why’.

Skills Required Other than the school entrance requirements, there are no formal expectations. You are recommended to have a reasonable standard in written English and have a clear interest in contemporary events.

Course Overview The A Level course studies the implications and practice of different political systems, as well as in-depth studies of different political ideologies. Politics deals with such ideas as power, authority, rights, liberty, and justice and examines contemporary politics as it occurs. Through your study of contemporary politics, you will develop a strong understanding of the factors shaping both the British and American systems. You will also gain insight into some of the great political ideas which have shaped the world we live in. This subject helps in the development of discussion and debating skills and encourages you to think beyond the constraints of a textbook. Whether you wish to indulge your intellectual curiosity or simply become more aware of the world in which you live, the study of Politics will certainly provide many opportunities for you to become a more knowledgeable and critical thinker.

Methods of Assessment Paper 1

Paper 2

Paper 3

UK Politics and Core Political Ideas

UK Government and Non-core Political Ideas

Government and Politics of the USA

2 hours

Subject Co-ordinator: Mrs RK Potter – rkp@kes.hants.sch.uk

2 hours

Psychology ‘The scientific study of the mind and behaviour’.

Skills Required An interest in ‘people’ is essential to the study of Psychology. Students can succeed in Psychology if they have strengths in Science or Humanities subjects, as it incorporates skills from both areas.

Course Overview Psychology is the second most popular A Level and degree course in the UK, demonstrating that although Psychology is a new subject for many at A Level it often becomes a passion that develops into a lifelong career. Students are encouraged to become independent thinkers who can critically analyse. The course is broad, for example the many facets that make someone ‘them’ is taught, including the influence of genes, upbringing and the environment on behaviour. Key historical events that changed the world are explored and students analyse how these can be explained from a psychological perspective. The causes and treatments of mental illnesses including depression, anxiety, phobias, OCD and schizophrenia are also investigated. All students have the opportunity to carry out and analyse their own research throughout the course, for example in the Lower Sixth students visit Marwell Zoo to observe animal behaviour. Other course events include a mock trial at the Royal Courts of Justice and an interactive ‘Brain Day’ for which an acclaimed neuroscientist helps students to understand the influence of the brain on behaviour.

Lessons are interactive and varied, incorporating many pedagogical methods. Students become independent learners who have confidence in their abilities and understand their learning style. Booklets are used to aid organised note taking. Lunchtime workshops are available for anyone who would like extra help, including ‘drop-in’ workshops for those who would like to discuss a topic one-on-one with a teacher and taught workshops where students can revisit topics or skills in small groups. There is also a weekly Psychology Society where areas beyond the specification are explored and speakers are invited to talk about their specialism. These sessions are invaluable for those who want to study Psychology at university. Psychology is recognised by universities as a rigorous and demanding Science A Level, and is valuable for students who may wish to progress to degree courses in clinical subjects (medicine, physiotherapy, veterinary sciences, nursing), social work, and education. A Psychology degree is essential for Clinical Psychology, Educational Psychology and Forensic Psychology, and can lead to many other specialist fields such as Sports Psychology and Human Resources. It is also very useful for other careers such as business, journalism and law.

Methods of Assessment We follow the AQA specification. There are three examination papers, all taken at the end of the Upper Sixth. They include a mixture of multiple choice, short and longer questions, with the longest requiring about 500 words of writing. There is no assessed coursework but students undertake their own psychological research, with guidance, during the Lower Sixth.

Head of Department: Mrs E Brindley-Ewan – ecbe@kes.hants.sch.uk

KING EDWARD VI SCHOOL

Religious Studies ‘Many people would sooner die than think; in fact they do so’. – Bertrand Russell Course Overview Philosophy, Ethics and Religion come under the auspices of Religious Studies. The aim of the subjects is to provide students with sound knowledge of key thinking in three key areas which help humans explore questions of meaning.

Skills Required The course is also open to all regardless of whether they have studied GCSE Religious Studies or not. The only prerequisite to the A Level course is a willingness to engage in debate and to have an open mind.

Students at King Edward’s will be studying the OCR A Level in ‘Philosophy, Ethics and Religion’ (Religious Studies). Studying this subject is not simply about learning a body of knowledge, it is also about learning an invaluable skill - how to recognise, evaluate and construct arguments, whether on the page or in classroom debate. The department aims to promote honest and robust discussion and to provide students with a stimulating, enjoyable and academically rigorous study of philosophy, ethics and developments in religious thought. An A Level in this subject can be extremely valuable. An understanding of ethical issues is required in many professions such as Law, Medicine, Chartered Accountancy, Banking, and the Armed Forces. It is also an excellent subject for any pupil who wants to go on to work with people. Philosophy graduates are highly sought after by developers of AI. This is an area of growth in the modern world and critical thinking about uses of AI is essential for the future of humanity. Topics covered: Component 01: Philosophy of Religion Students study philosophical language and thought, and issues and questions raised by belief: • Ancient philosophical influences (Plato and Aristotle) • The nature of the soul, mind and body • Arguments for the existence of God using both observation and logic • The nature and impact of religious experience • The problem of evil for religious believers • Ideas about the attributes of God • Issues in religious language. Component 02: Religion and Ethics Students explore key concepts and the works of influential thinkers, ethical theories and their application: • Normative ethical theories • The application of ethical theory to two contemporary

issues of importance • Ethical language and thought • Debates surrounding the significant idea of conscience • Sexual ethics and the influence on ethical thought of developments in religious beliefs. Component 03: Developments in Religious Thought Students study Christianity systematically and explore: • Augustine’s views on Human Nature • Death and the afterlife • Knowledge of God’s existence • The person of Jesus Christ • Christian Moral Principles and Moral Action • Religious Pluralism in theology and society • Gender in theology and society • The challenge of Secularism • Liberation Theology and Marx

Methods of Assessment Paper 1

Paper 2

Paper 3

Philosophy of Religion

Religion and Ethics

Developments in Religious Thought

2 hours - 33.3%

Head of Department: Mr AE Cross – aec@kes.hants.sch.uk

2 hours - 33.3%

Spanish ‘Spanish at A Level is the gateway to communication with the over 400 million Spanish speakers worldwide and a key to a fun and truly diverse culture’. Course Overview Lower Sixth builds on the foundations laid at IGCSE. Familiar topics form the basis of the first parts of the language course, but a lot of new vocabulary is added. As the language course progresses, more advanced structures are introduced, and these require a sound understanding of the more basic structures if they are to be effectively added to your linguistic armoury. By the end of the first term, you should find yourself beginning to cope successfully with understanding and communicating in genuinely advanced Spanish. By the end of the two year course to A Level, our best students achieve nearnative fluency in a wide variety of topics and situations. Work will be done mainly in Spanish. Your teachers will speak to you in Spanish for the great majority of the time and you will be expected to conduct yourself, even for the most routine issues, in Spanish. You will be expected to undertake a good deal of independent work as well as the work set.

Skills Required You should aim to begin the course with a firm knowledge of the major verb tenses and forms for both regular and irregular verbs. A working knowledge of the bulk of IGCSE vocabulary will also be assumed. Topics will be introduced by reading a variety of original texts and listening to recorded authentic material, often from Internet sources. All you do will improve your ability to communicate in speech and in writing, develop your ability to construct a convincing argument and use evidence appropriately, and as you do so, you will also gain confidence in defending your arguments against those of others. It is expected that a minimum grade 7 at GCSE will have been achieved.

The department offers students the opportunity to travel to Salamanca during February half-term. The 6-day trip involves staying with families (normally in pairs) and attending daily culture and language classes at a local language school (4 hours/day). Although this is not a compulsory trip, it is highly recommended as it helps greatly with fluency, comprehension skills, confidence and gives a real insight into Spanish life and culture.

Methods of Assessment The A Level exam consists of 3 papers:

Paper 1 Listening, Reading & Writing

Paper 2 Writing

Paper 3 Speaking

Students will have to respond (in Spanish) to passages from a range of contexts and sources as well as translate two short texts, one into English and one into Spanish.

Students will answer two essay questions in Spanish about the film and book studied in lessons.

Students will have a 20 minute speaking assessment, where they will have a discussion around one of the themes studied in class and also present and discuss their own research project.

Head of Department: Mrs EM Ladislao – eml@kes.hants.sch.uk

KING EDWARD VI SCHOOL

Sports Science ‘If you love playing sport and enjoy learning how your body works for sport… this is the course for you!’

Skills Required You don’t necessarily need to have studied GCSE Physical Education or Sports Science to study this subject at A Level, however it is an advantage. Solid foundations in Biology would also be advantageous. 30% of the course is assessed through practical skills and therefore students will need to perform at a decent level in one sport that is on the AQA specification.

Course Overview Studying Sports Science at A Level will give you a fantastic insight into the amazing world of sports performance. Not only will you have the chance to perform or coach a sport through the non-examined assessment component, you will also develop a wide range of knowledge into the how and why of physical activity and sport. The combination of physical performance and academic challenge provides an exciting opportunity for students. You can perform, and then through the academic study improve your performance or coaching though application of the theory. Physical Education is studied through a range of different contexts and the impact it has on both ours and others’ everyday lives. You will learn the reasons why we do things, why some people out perform others, mentally and physically. You will also delve into the ethical considerations behind the use of drugs and also the influence that modern technology is having in and on physical activity and sport.

Methods of Assessment Paper 1

Paper 2

Factors affecting participating in physical activity and sport.

Factors affecting optimal performance in physical activity and sport.

2 hours - 35% of A Level

Head of Department: Mr D Kent – dk@kes.hants.sch.uk

Assessment 3 Practical performance in physical activity and sport. Internally assessed and externally moderated. This section of the course contributes to 30% of the A Level. Students will be assessed as a performer or coach in the full sided version of one activity and then will be assessed in an analysis and evaluation coursework.

Curriculum FAQs How do I choose my subjects for the Sixth Form? You will be studying a much narrower range of subjects than in the past and spending more time on each of them, so it certainly makes sense to choose subjects you know you enjoy! Equally, your results in these subjects will be your passport to Higher Education, so they should also be subjects in which you can reasonably expect to achieve good results. A combination of subjects offering a degree of variety of study is often a good idea. If you have clear future intentions for university and beyond, check if you should take certain subjects at A Level. If you are not sure what you want to do beyond the Sixth Form, it’s best to choose a range of subjects that keep your options open. Take advice as widely as possible and visit the HE and careers centre to talk to our dedicated HE staff.

Should I do 3 or 4 subjects? In the Lower Sixth our advice is to start on four subjects and consider reducing to three mid-way through the year or at the start of the Upper Sixth. In the Upper Sixth, Further Mathematics, Mathematics, plus two other subjects is the traditional four-subject combination, but you can take all four of your subjects forward to A Level if you wish, whatever combination you are studying. It is important not to underestimate the potential demands of any four-subject Upper Sixth course of study, and to take advice as widely as possible. Universities are generally looking for the three best A Level grades, and focusing on three subjects can increase your chances of obtaining the highest grades.

Which subjects are the best preparation for university later on? The school believes that all the subjects offered at A Level have good academic credentials and are suitable for study by Sixth Formers intending to enter Higher Education. Some HE courses have specific subject requirements, very many do not. Students who are concerned whether their A Level subjects are appropriate preparation for their intended course of study at university should consult the websites of the universities concerned or look at the entry profiles for courses featured on UCAS Course Search. The HE and careers department can also offer guidance and advice.

When do I have to decide which subjects I want to carry on to full A Level? Having chosen four subjects for your Lower Sixth year, you don’t have to decide which three you will carry on with in the Upper Sixth until the Spring Term of the Lower Sixth year, or after the Lower Sixth exams in the Summer Term. Requests to change your choice of subjects after that will be considered but will be subject to considerations such as staffing, set numbers and timetabling implications. Internal exams held at the start of the Summer Term in the Lower Sixth will help you with this process.

Will I have the same teachers in both years in the Sixth Form?

Can I drop my fourth A Level subject in the Upper Sixth? If you decide to keep with four subjects in the Upper Sixth, this is fine. You should consider the demands of four A Level courses carefully before embarking on this route. If, however, you later decide to reduce to three subjects, you will be allowed to drop the fourth subject.

Will subjects be examined in both the Lower and Upper Sixth? Yes. All subjects will be examined in the Summer Term of the Lower Sixth year internally. In January of the Upper Sixth year, mock examinations are arranged by subject departments and A Level subjects will be externally examined in May of the Upper Sixth year.

What is Open Forum and Foundation Studies? In Lower Sixth, every student will enter the Foundation Studies programme and attend a series of weekly sessions designed to equip students with key skills and to extend their education beyond the examined curriculum. In Upper Sixth, the programme evolves into a series of five short courses chosen from a wide-ranging list. Full details of these will be made available in the Spring Term of the Lower Sixth year. In addition, all Sixth Form students will attend Open Forum, a series of weekly presentations by staff and guest speakers, intended to interest, inspire and broaden the experience of all students.

Continuity of teaching cannot be guaranteed, as we will need to make some rearrangements to teaching sets in the light of choices for Upper Sixth, but we will do our best to provide continuity for as many sets and students as possible.

Any questions you might have which are not answered above should be addressed to Dr BM Waymark - Deputy Head (Academic) Tel. 023 8070 4561 Email. bmw@kes.hants.sch.uk

King Edward VI School . Wilton Road . Southampton . Hampshire SO15 5UQ

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