Sixth Form Curriculum Information Booklet for 2018 Entry

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The Sixth Form at Maidstone Grammar School for Girls

Curriculum Information for 2018 Entry

A Tradition of Excellence

Welcome to Maidstone Grammar School for Girls We are delighted to welcome you to our School. Through this booklet and our Open Events, we hope that you will be able to find out what makes Maidstone Grammar School for Girls an exciting and inspiring place to study. Graded as ‘Outstanding’ in all areas in our most recent Ofsted inspection, we are immensely proud both of the academic achievements of our students and the community culture of the Sixth Form, with students and staff committed to ensuring all students achieve their full potential and are able to pursue their individual goals.

Maidstone Grammar School for Girls has a tradition of excellence, and we have designed a Key Stage 5 curriculum to reflect this. We value academic rigour and, as an Advanced Thinking School, actively promote the resilient attitude and higher level thinking required for Sixth Form study, particularly relevant to the synoptic nature of the new linear A level courses. Most of our students pursue undergraduate study or higher level degree apprenticeships, and the structure of our curriculum and the nature of our teaching and learning is excellent preparation for this. Maidstone Grammar School for Girls celebrates our tradition and our students are proud to continue the legacy of the many exceptional students who have gone before them, particularly pertinent as we celebrate our 130th birthday during this academic year. However, this tradition is complemented well by our modern approach to learning, and we are delighted that we have recently been awarded status as a Google ‘Leading Light’ school. Students enjoy access to the G Suite for Education, through which we are able to enhance learning both in and out of lessons.

Our current students often comment on the community of the Sixth Form, which underpins all we do, and reflects our firm belief in our school motto, non sibi sed omnibus, ‘not for oneself but for all’. We enjoy working together for success, and look forward to offering you opportunities beyond your study to develop the skills, talents and interests that are individual to you. Our bespoke Sixth Form Extra programme, Student Leadership structure, work experience, school service, trips, visits and extracurricular activities will all contribute to your experiences here. The pastoral care we offer supports this, with an extensive transition programme and highly personalised mentoring for all students during their time with us. We have recently started using the A Level Mindset at MGGS to help students explore their vision and cultivate the practices required for success as they begin an academic programme quite different to Key Stage 4. Our vision is that each MGGS Sixth Form student is healthy and happy, and to that end, we tirelessly seek to provide all that students need to achieve their ambitions after leaving school.

This booklet outlines the pathways and programmes available from September 2018. We are confident that within it you will find a route that will suit you well as you embark on this exciting and important stage of your education with us. In addition to a broad selection of Advanced Level courses, including all facilitating subjects, we are also pleased to be offering three equivalent Level 3 qualifications, Food Science and Nutrition, Health and Social Care and Information Technology. Students also have the opportunity to pursue additional courses, including the Extended Project Qualification. Because we design our blocks around student choices, almost any combination of subjects is possible and we are able to offer most students their preferred programme of study.

We very much hope that, having visited our Sixth Form and examined the details in this booklet, you will choose to apply and will join the next generation of successful students to study at Maidstone Grammar School for Girls. We look forward to working with you.

Miss Deborah Stanley Headteacher

Mrs Christie Ransom Assistant Headteacher for Key Stage 5

Pathways and Programmes of Study From September 2018, Maidstone Grammar School for Girls is pleased to offer the following courses in the Sixth Form (all Advanced Level unless otherwise indicated):              

Art (Art, Craft and Design) Art (Graphic Communication) Biology Business Chemistry Computer Science Design and Technology Product Design Drama and Theatre Economics English Language and Literature English Literature Food Science and Nutrition (Level 3 Diploma) Geography Health and Social Care (Level 3 Cambridge Technical Extended Certificate)

 History  Information Technology (Level 3 Cambridge Technical Extended Certificate)  Mathematics and Further Mathematics  Media Studies  Modern Foreign Languages French, German and Spanish  Physical Education  Physics  Politics  Psychology  Religious Studies  Sociology

These courses have been carefully selected to reflect the broad interests of the students who apply to MGGS, recognising the importance of providing an academically rigorous curriculum. Full information on each of these courses, including subject specific entry requirements, is included in the second half of this booklet.

Students joining Year 12 in September 2018 will pursue one of two pathways:  Pathway 1 - 3 A Level/Level 3 subjects to completion at the end of Year 13 (final examinations in Summer 2020)  Pathway 2 - 4 A Level/Level 3 subjects to completion at the end of Year 13 (final examinations in Summer 2020).

Those students wishing to pursue Pathway 2 will need to achieve 8+ 7-9 or A*/A grades at GCSE. We design our option blocks around student preferences, and therefore, an exceptionally wide range of subject combinations is possible; we will do our very best to provide you with a course of study that is appropriate to your requirements and ability.

In making your decision consider carefully what you enjoy studying at the moment – you will need to be proactive in your study and it is important that you enjoy what you are doing. Also

consider your academic strengths - if you are finding a subject difficult at GCSE Level it is unlikely that you will be advised to study it at Key Stage 5. Finally, you should ensure you keep your options open to any potential career or course that you may like to pursue in the future. Seek advice from subject specialists or our dedicated independent Careers and Higher Education Coordinator, Miss Rhodes, if you have questions related to this.

Application and Admissions We welcome applications to our Sixth Form from both male and female students, whether currently attending our own or any other school. Each year we welcome many new entrants from other schools, including approximately 30 boys. Our Sixth Form Management Team and student Ambassadors provide support for transition, and all students very quickly become valued members of our Sixth Form community.

The entry requirements for the Sixth Form, and the application process for internal and external students is outlined below. All offers are conditional on GCSE results, and therefore, will not be made firm until results and enrolment day.

Entry Requirements: st  Students must be 16 years of age by 31 August of year of entry into Year 12.  The minimum entry requirements for the Sixth Form at MGGS are at least six full course GCSEs at Grade C (or Grade 5) or above, including English Language and Mathematics.

At least four of these subjects must be at Grade B (or Grade 6).  In addition, students must meet subject entry requirements, which in most cases require a minimum of Grade B (or Grade 6) in the subject to be studied, or related subjects. Please note that the range of subjects available is limited for students without a Grade 6 in English Language or English Literature.  All applicants will be invited to a Guidance Meeting with a senior member of staff early in 2018.  If you have been offered a place in the Sixth Form, it is very important that you participate in our Induction Day on Wednesday, 11th July 2018 and you will therefore be expected to attend this event, at which you will be given your enrolment pack. rd  Enrolment to the Sixth Form will take place on GCSE results day on Thursday, 23 August 2018. Internal applicants will be invited to enrol in the morning and external applicants will be invited to enrol in the afternoon.  If you fail to meet the entry requirements, you will first be advised to consider whether it is appropriate to seek a remark of your GCSE. If you do not meet the minimum entry requirements you will be offered the opportunity to appeal for a place at the School. If you do not meet the subject entry criteria, you may be offered an alternative programme of study with us for which you are eligible.

Application Procedure for Internal Applicants  You and your parents or carers are invited to attend the Sixth Form Open Evening on Thursday, 9th November 2017 from 5.30pm - 8.30pm. You will have an opportunity to meet with the Sixth Form Management Team, to talk to teachers about the subjects you wish to

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study and to attend a presentation giving general information about the Sixth Form. Throughout the evening current Sixth Form students will be available to talk with you about courses and life in the Sixth Form.

Focus Day 2 at the beginning of December will be used for talks about new subjects and future choices, and for advice about how to research these. Online application forms will be completed in school during the December Focus Day. This initial information enables us to arrange subject option blocks so that as many first choices as possible are met.

All Year 11 students will have an interview with Miss Rhodes, our Careers and Higher Education Officer, before the end of December.

Following your mock examinations and completion of subject reports, you and your parents will be invited to a Guidance Meeting with a senior member of staff in January to discuss your progress and future plans.

Application Procedure for External Applicants  In addition to individual enquiries, you and your parents or carers are invited to attend our Sixth Form Open Evening on Thursday, 9th November 2017 from 5.30pm - 8.30pm. You will have an opportunity to meet with the Sixth Form Management Team, to talk to teachers about the subjects you wish to study and to attend a presentation giving general information about the Sixth Form. Throughout the evening current Sixth Form students will be available to talk with you about courses and life in the Sixth Form. th  You are also invited to attend our Sixth Form Open Morning on Wednesday, 6 December 2017, 9-11am, during which you will be able to observe a working day at MGGS.  Applications should be made online at www.ucasprogress.com. There is no final closing date for applications, but to ensure the best possibility of obtaining your subject choices we strongly recommend that you return your application form as early as possible and by Friday, 2nd February 2018. All applicants will then be offered a Guidance Meeting with a senior member of staff in February 2018. Please note that the meeting is designed to find out more about your aspirations and academic interests; it is not a factor in deciding whether to make a conditional offer.

If you would like to discuss your application at any stage please contact Mrs Debbie Harding, our Sixth Form Administrator on 01622 752103 Ext 405 or email dharding@mggs.org.

Important Dates for Applicants Sixth Form Open Evening UCAS Progress applications open Focus Day 2 for internal applicants Sixth Form Open Morning for external applicants Internal Guidance Meetings UCAS Progress application preference deadline External Guidance Meetings Induction Day GCSE Results and Sixth Form Enrolment Day

- Thursday, 9th November 2017 - Thursday, 9th November 2017 - Tuesday, 5th December 2017 - Wednesday, 6th December 2017 - January 2018 - Friday, 2nd February 2018 - February 2018 - Wednesday, 11th July 2018 - Thursday, 23rd August 2018

Enriching your time at MGGS At Maidstone Grammar School for Girls, we pride ourselves on providing a holistic curriculum and a wealth of extracurricular opportunities. Although helping you to achieve excellent academic qualifications is at the heart of the MGGS Sixth Form, we recognise that life consists of more than qualifications, and want to resource you to manage challenge, make a positive contribution, and enjoy good health and wellbeing after you leave school.

Sixth Form Extra Alongside your academic programme of study, all Year 12 and 13 students are timetabled to attend Sixth Form Extra. Sixth Form Extra has been designed with the express purpose of enhancing both the development and wellbeing of students. Students are able to construct their own programme, choosing from a range of options each term. The offer is broad but students may also choose the same activity each term, and can use this time to gain additional qualifications, pursue the arts or sports for their own wellbeing, gain new skills, for example through Cookery School, or a combination of the above.

“I have really enjoyed participating in the Sixth Form Choir during my Sixth Form Extra sessions. It is a great opportunity to relax and have some fun during your timetable while working on our wider skill set for later life.” (Year 12 student).

“Through Sixth Form Extra, you get to learn new skills and meet lovely new people through the courses.” (Year 12 student).

“I really enjoy Sixth Form Extra because it allows me to do extra qualifications when I want to, to broaden my scope of knowledge and enhance my UCAS application or CV. At the same time, I can do something fun with friends if I want to! It has a really great mix of different opportunities to take part in and the programme is very flexible.” (Year 12 student).

The full Sixth Form Extra offer is confirmed each term, but examples include the following:  Oxford University Degree Modules These short modules at undergraduate level enable students to experience higher level academic study and extend their understanding of their subjects.  Certificate in Financial Studies The Certificate in Financial Studies is overseen by the London Institute of Banking and Finance and has been designed to provide students the core disciplines of financial capability. Students are encouraged to become responsible borrowers, sensible savers, and have an appreciation of the need for financial planning throughout their life. The purpose is to prepare students for further study through the development of core skills of critical analysis and evaluation, synthesis, verbal communication (through classroom discussion) and written communication. The CeFS course can offer a maximum of 70 UCAS points which can contribute to your university entry.

 Extended Project Qualification Towards the end of Year 12, students may apply to undertake the Extended Project Qualification, which is highly regarded by universities. Students are required to conduct a research-based written report of approximately 5000 words. This can be a research report of a scientific investigation, exploration of a hypothesis or an extended essay. There is also an assessed presentation. The EPQ is ideal preparation for undergraduate study. It is an AS level equivalent qualification and the only one where it is possible to achieve an A* grade.  Recreational Sport Students can choose to use their Sixth Form Extra lessons for physical activity, promoting lifelong health and wellbeing and offering opportunities for teamwork and competition.

Our ambition is that all students are able to find a form of physical activity that they enjoy and to provide opportunities to find out how to participate in these activities after they have left school.  Cookery School Students can choose to use their Sixth Form Extra lessons to gain new skills. In the Cookery School, students learn a selection of recipes designed to be easily replicable for university and independent living. Making good use of good food available at good value underpins this course, which includes advice on how to pack your 5-a-day into one meal.

A Level Mindset Even once you have found the right combination of subjects, the step up to Key Stage 5 study is a challenging one. We are fully invested in exploring how we as a school can support students as they make this step, and this year have started to use the resources and activities from the A Level Mindset. This system has been designed to make students aware of what is needed for success during the two years in Sixth Form. The A Level Mindset suggests, from research, that effective and successful Sixth Form students demonstrate the following traits:  Vision - they have a clear goal that they want to achieve, can make an actionable plan, and voluntarily continue goal-directed actions.  Effort - they invest a minimum of 20 hours of independent study per week.  Systems - they organise their learning resources and time and can complete key tasks to deadline. They naturally allow time to be reflective as part of this.  Practice - they understand the merits of different types of practice and use their independent study time effectively.  Attitude - they have a settled way of thinking about their learning, they are buoyant and positive, they respond to challenge well and they are resilient.

All of these traits can be cultivated and encouraged, and through Sixth Form Extra, form sessions, mentoring and in subject classes, we will explore these themes with you and provide activities for development.

Thinking Skills As an Advanced Thinking School, we are proud to promote a broad array of thinking tools designed to deepen students’ understanding of subject content and promote active engagement in their study. We will train you in the use of Thinking Maps, the habits of mind, de Bono’s Six Hats, Bloom’s taxonomy and many other strategies to order your learning and develop your ideas. These tools are powerful and greatly benefit students in preparing for the synoptic nature of Key Stage 5 study.

Student Leadership In keeping with our school motto, non sibi sed omnibus, all students are encouraged to volunteer their time in service, but as senior members of our school, Sixth Form students will be invited to apply for student leadership roles. All of these opportunities are, of course, open to all students including new entrants, and each year external students hold the highest positions of responsibility alongside internal students.

Towards the end of Year 12, Head Students, Ambassadors, House Leaders and Subject Leaders are appointed. These roles comprise our Senior Student Leadership Team, and they are highly regarded within the school, undertaking a number of responsibilities and often representing the school at formal events or by liaising with visitors.

Sixth Form students aid Year 7 transition in the role of Form Assistants, guiding new students and visiting the form regularly as pastoral mentors. Students are also invited to consider leading whole school initiatives by becoming High Performance Programme and Thinking Assistants.

In addition to formal roles and responsibilities, there are many clubs and other extracurricular activities in the school, many of which are organised and led by Sixth Form students, reflecting their individual interests. If there is a club or society you would be keen to found, you will be supported in creating this leadership opportunity, or you may choose instead to volunteer to co-lead an existing group.

Extra-Curricular Activities We have two drama rehearsal suites and two mirrored dance studios in our outstanding new sports hall. MGGS boasts excellent stage lighting and sound equipment in the Main Hall, and all students are encouraged to use these facilities. There is a drama production and a dance showcase every year, involving a large cast and backstage crew. Members of the Sixth Form also regularly assist with clubs for the performing arts. Our senior dance troupe, G-Fix, performs and competes at an exceptionally high level, and the quality of our performing arts is something we are very proud of. The many musicians in our school are involved in an extensive range of activities, including a variety of ensembles, choirs and orchestras and a

swing band. Equipment includes a digital multi-track-mixing desk, CD recorder and computers with sequencing software. MGGS is a directly licensed centre for the Duke of Edinburgh's Award (Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards). There is the opportunity to help with the running of the school’s DofE Unit, working with and supporting younger students as they too complete their Awards. Other clubs and societies enjoyed and led by Sixth Form students include the Debating Society, Christian Union, and Chess Club.

Pastoral Care and Guidance in the Sixth Form “MGGS provides a sense of both welcoming and belonging for all. If there is a problem with simply finding a room, somebody is there. If there is a problem with your academic life, somebody is there. If there is a problem in your personal life, somebody is there. In many schools, this may just be a form tutor, or maybe a head of year who would be able to help but no, at MGGS, anyone, be it students, be it teachers, be it senior staff, is there to help, to support and to relate. At MGGS, somebody is there.” (Year 12 external student).

At Maidstone Grammar School for Girls, we are committed to ensuring that you are well supported both in your academic study and your wellbeing during your time in the Sixth Form.

We believe that healthy and happy students are best able to achieve their full potential. During your time at MGGS, you will be supported by your subject teachers and your Form Tutor, alongside the Sixth Form Management Team:  Mrs C Ransom, Assistant Headteacher for Key Stage 5  Mrs G Wilkinson and Mrs R Owen, Heads of Study for Years 12 and 13  Mrs M Pender, Key Stage 5 Learning Mentor  Mrs D Harding, Sixth Form Administrator  Miss A Rhodes, Careers and Higher Education Coodinator There are many differences between Years 7-11 and life in the Sixth Form and it is important to make the transition as smooth as possible. To facilitate this you will attend an Induction Day on Wednesday, 11th July 2018. On this day, you will participate in lessons in your chosen subjects, and receive further information about the MGGS Sixth Form. Your induction into our Sixth Form will continue in the first two weeks of the Autumn term, during which you will spend extended time in tutor groups, attend a team building day at Swattenden Activity Centre, and enjoy a ‘getting to know you’ lunch with new friends and the Sixth Form Management Team.

To complement this, an information evening for students and parents or carers is held during the first week in September to provide an opportunity to meet the Sixth Form Management Team and ask any outstanding questions. An invitation to this event will be included in the enrolment pack, which you will receive on Induction Day. You will join a vertical tutor group of approximately 25 students from Year 12 and 13, meeting together twice each day for registration. Your academic progress will be monitored carefully and your Form Tutor will have regular mentoring meetings with you to offer help and advice.

Your Form Tutor will also be closely involved in the preparation of your application for higher education, apprenticeships or employment.

Academic progress is monitored continuously through homework, class work and assessments. In each of your subjects you will have opportunities to discuss your progress with your subject teachers and to raise any concerns that you may have. There are also three tracking and monitoring reports each academic year, as well as a full report. If your subject teachers are concerned, they will talk and work with you to resolve any problems. More serious matters may involve the Head of Department or the Sixth Form Management Team, who are highly experienced in working with students and parents and carers to support progress and ensure students fulfil their personal and academic potential.

Our Sixth Form students enjoy privileges, including being able to leave the school site during the lunch hour, and to dress more casually, in accordance with the Sixth Form dress code.

Students with good or outstanding attitude to learning scores and excellent attendance and punctuality are also awarded home study; the opportunity to study at home during some of your independent study periods or to use this time to make use of the library and research facilities in Maidstone.

16-19 Bursary Fund The 16-19 Bursary Fund is administered by the school to provide support for Sixth Form students. The purpose of this funding is to remove any barriers to participation in post-16 education. The amount of money available for each school to distribute through the bursary funding is determined by the government, but the distribution of these funds is at the discretion of the school. MGGS is committed to distributing the Bursary Fund to those students with the greatest need. We actively encourage eligible students to apply, and applications can be made at Enrolment Day. Further details, including the eligibility criteria, are available on the Sixth Form section of the school website, www.mggs.org. Successful applicants, our “bursary scholars�, are able to apply for specific funding requests throughout the academic year according to their needs, including travel, resources and subsidies for trips and visits. If you have further questions regarding this please speak to Mrs Ransom, Assistant Headteacher for Key Stage 5 or Mrs Swift, School Business Manager.

Focus Days and Careers Guidance During the academic year the Sixth Form enjoy five Focus Days which comprise activities to enrich and deepen your knowledge and understanding of key contemporary issues and to provide opportunities for PSHE, for educational visits and visiting speakers. Religious Education is provided in the Sixth Form in accordance with the Education Reform Act through Focus Day conferences in Years 12 and 13. During these, you will be encouraged to reflect on contemporary moral issues and questions raised by life and to explore philosophical, religious and spiritual responses.

Focus Days will also incorporate Careers Education, led by our full-time Careers and Higher Education Coordinator. Formal lessons are supported by one-to-one consultations throughout the Sixth Form to give impartial information, advice and guidance. We will assist you in making career decisions, including the choice between higher education, apprenticeship or employment after Sixth Form. You will receive help and advice in seeking work experience, in the preparation of CVs, letters and forms of application, and in preparing for interview. You will supported in planning relevant work experience, particularly important if you are considering medicine or teaching.

We have excellent facilities to enable you to carry out research into future pathways and our well-stocked Careers Library is accessible during independent study and break times. You are also encouraged to attend lectures, open days and sample courses at universities and a higher education convention organised by UCAS. If you choose to pursue higher education, you will be supported at each stage of making applications to universities and colleges through UCAS and to other higher education courses. For students considering apprenticeships or employment, additional careers information is made available through talks and careers conventions. Focus Day sessions and other meetings are used to share information about applications, finance, grants and awards, work-based learning programmes for post-18 students, taking a ‘gap year’ and sponsorship.

Subjects Available at Maidstone Grammar School for Girls

The subjects expected to be available at Advanced Level in September 2018 are as follows: Art (Art, Craft and Design) Art (Graphic Communication) Biology Business Chemistry Computer Science Design and Technology Product Design Drama and Theatre Economics English Language and Literature English Literature Geography History Mathematics and Further Mathematics Media Studies Modern Foreign Languages - French, German and Spanish Physical Education Physics Politics Psychology Religious Studies Sociology In addition, MGGS is pleased to offer equivalent Level 3 qualifications in: Food Science and Nutrition (Level 3 Diploma) Health and Social Care (Level 3 Cambridge Technical Extended Certificate) Information Technology (Level 3 Cambridge Technical Extended Certificate) Please Note: If there is inadequate demand for a particular subject or staffing difficulties arise it may not be possible to run a subject.

Art (Art, Craft and Design) Subject specific GCSE requirements: Grade 6 (or B) or above in GCSE Art. For students who do not have a GCSE in Art and Design, assessment of a portfolio (or of a relevant GCSE controlled assessment project) will be required to study A Level Art (Art, Craft and Design).

Examination Board: AQA The Art, Craft and Design course aims to enthuse students and to build on the skills, knowledge and understanding acquired at GCSE level through the exploration of their talents, interests and strengths. Students are encouraged to think independently throughout the creative process, including the exploration of ideas, skills and media to generate personal and innovative responses. Making connections with artists, designers and craftspeople enhances student projects through practical and critical application of knowledge and understanding. Students have the opportunity to extend this through gallery visits. This course provides an alternative programme for students who are interested in pursuing their study of Textiles*.

Students produce work in one or more areas, including drawing, painting, textiles, mixed media, sculpture, ceramics, installation, printmaking, moving image and photography.

Undertaking the Art, Craft and Design course enables students to develop independent thinking, critical and research skills, to develop innovative solutions to investigations and to engage with current events and issues. For students who are considering entry to Art or Textile/Fashion courses at Art College or University, the course also enables the collation of a portfolio of work.

Before commencing component one, students will undertake a series of techniques workshops and idea development seminars which will provide a strong foundation of technical knowledge and understanding. This work will feed into students portfolios, in addition to informing ideas which can develop into their personal investigation.

Course Details Component One This is a personal investigation comprising practical coursework supported by written work of between 1,000 and 3,000 words. Students are required to conduct an investigation into an idea, issue, concept or theme. The focus of the investigation is independently selected by the student and leads to a series of related finished outcomes. The component accounts for 60% of the grade awarded.

Component Two This is an assignment that is set by the examination board. Students choose one theme from the given question paper and prepare for a final outcome undertaken in 15 hours of supervised time. The component accounts for 40% of the grade awarded. *Please note that this course is not equivalent to the Art Textiles A Level course, but provides an alternative pathway to explore the use of textiles in an Art based subject.

Art (Graphic Communication) Subject specific GCSE requirements: Grade 6 (or B) or above in GCSE Art. For students who do not have a GCSE in Art and Design, assessment of a portfolio of work will be necessary to study A Level Graphic Communication.

Examination Board: AQA The Graphic Communication course develops personal responses within the communication of information and ideas using graphic media. Students apply the skills, knowledge and understanding acquired at GCSE level Art and Design to develop projects that explore graphic specific techniques in the answering of design briefs. The visual communication of ideas and meaning to different audiences underlies the experimentation and the development of work. This is put into context through the exploration of the work of designers and artists.

Gallery visits are an essential part of this process and the knowledge gained enhances practical and critical components of student work. Students produce work in one or more areas, including advertising, packaging design, design for print, illustration, communication graphics, branding and design for film and television.

Undertaking the Graphic Communication course enables students to develop independent thinking, critical and research skills to develop innovative resolutions to investigations and to engage with current events and issues. For students who are considering entry to Art courses at Art College or university the course also enables the collation of a portfolio of work.

Before commencing component one, students will undertake a series of techniques workshops and idea development lessons which will provide a strong foundation of technical knowledge and understanding. This work will feed into students portfolios, in addition to informing ideas which can develop into their personal investigation.

Course Details Component One This is a personal investigation comprising practical coursework supported by written work of between 1,000 and 3,000 words. Students are required to conduct an investigation into an idea, issue, concept or theme. The focus of the investigation is independently selected by the student and leads to a series of related finished outcomes. The component accounts for 60% of the grade awarded.

Component Two This is an assignment that is set by the examination board. Students choose one theme from a series of options on a question paper and prepare for a final outcome undertaken in 15 hours of supervised time. The component accounts for 40% of the grade awarded.

Biology Subject specific GCSE requirements: Grade 6 or above in GCSE Biology or 7-7 or above in GCSE Combined Science. Grade 6 or above in GCSE Mathematics is also required.

BTEC Science courses, GCSE Applied Science and GCSE Additional Applied Science are not suitable preparation for this course.

Examination Board: AQA Biology, simply defined, is the study of living organisms and the processes that make life possible.

Biology provides an excellent foundation for careers in a variety of professions and occupations in the areas of molecular and cellular biology, physiology, industrial microbiology and biotechnology, human genetics, forensic science, health education, plant pathology, oceanography, herpetology, animal behaviour, ecology, environmental studies, entomology, parasitology, botany, mammalogy and postgraduate education.

There is a requirement for mathematical skills to be assessed within the examination papers and therefore this course will suit those students with good mathematical ability. The course links well with Chemistry, Physics, Physical Education and Geography.

Course Details Students will sit all three of the A Level examinations at the end of Year 13. In addition to this, there will be a practical endorsement (pass or fail) element to the course to test students’ practical competence. This will be reported separately to the final grade and will be based on performance in practical assessments throughout the two years.   

Paper 1 - written exam, topics 1 to 4: 2 hours, 35% of A Level - a mixture of short and long answer questions and extended response questions.

Paper 2 - written exam, topics 5 to 8: 2 hours, 35% of A Level - a mixture of short and long answer questions and a comprehension question.

Paper 3 - written exam, any content from topics 1-8: 2 hours, 30% of A Level structured questions, including practical techniques, critical analysis of given experimental data, one essay from a choice of two titles.

The Biology course will contain a variety of topics in Year 12. It builds on the GCSE Biology course and develops both breadth and depth of understanding of a range of biological concepts.

In Year 13 students will extend their learning, and practical skills will be developed throughout the course.  Biological molecules  Organisms exchange substances with their environment  Energy transfers in and between organisms  Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems

 Cells  Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms  Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environment  The control of gene expression

Business Subject specific GCSE requirements: General Sixth Form entry requirements.

Examination Board: AQA Do you harbour ambitions of being a successful business person? Have you got great ideas for a new product or service? Do you want to work for a large company in a specific area, such as finance or marketing? No matter your vision, the Business A Level course gives you an incredibly powerful start to a career in the world of business. All the key topics of running a business are covered; whether you are working for a global corporation or selling lemonade from your home, this course will prepare you.

The content of the A Level qualification is designed to engage students through topics and issues that are relevant in today’s society. You will study key contemporary developments such as digital technology, business ethics, and globalisation of business activity.

Topic areas include:  What is business?  Managers, leadership and decision making  Decision making to improve marketing performance  Decision making to improve operational performance  Decision making to improve financial performance  Decision making to improve human resource performance  Analysing the strategic position of a business  Choosing strategic direction  Strategic methods: how to pursue strategies  Managing strategic change Students will develop the knowledge and skills needed to analyse data, think critically about issues and make informed decisions; all skills that are needed for further study and employment.

Course Details This course is assessed by 3 two-hour examinations. Each of the examinations assesses the use of all subject knowledge areas. The question papers use a variety of assessment styles including multiple choice, short answer, data response, essay and case studies to enable students to confidently engage with the questions. Recognising this, real life case studies will be used wherever possible to make it easier for students to relate to and apply their knowledge and skills.

Chemistry Subject specific GCSE requirements: Grade 6 or above in GCSE Chemistry or 7-7 or above in GCSE Combined Science. Grade 7 or above in GCSE Mathematics is also required.

BTEC Science courses, GCSE Applied Science and GCSE Additional Applied Science are not suitable preparation for this course.

Examination Board: AQA A Level Chemistry attempts to answer the big question ‘what is the world made of?’ and it is the search for the answer that makes this subject so fascinating. From investigating how one substance can be changed drastically into another, to researching a new wonder drug to save millions of lives, the opportunities that Chemistry provides are endless.

The top five degree courses taken by students who have an A Level in Chemistry are Chemistry, Biology, Pre-clinical medicine, Mathematics and Pharmacology. Studying an A Level Chemistry-related degree at university gives you all sorts of exciting career options, including Analytical Chemist, Chemical Engineer, Clinical Biochemist, Pharmacologist, Doctor, Research Scientist, Toxicologist, Chartered Certified Accountant, Environmental Consultant, higher education lecturer, Patent attorney, Science writer and Teacher.

Course Details  Physical Chemistry: In Year 12 the course covers atomic structure and bonding, energetics, kinetics, equilibria and redox. These ideas are developed in Year 13 to cover thermodynamics, rate equations, acids and bases, electrode potentials and electrochemical cells.  Inorganic Chemistry: In Year 12 the course covers periodicity, group 2 (the alkaline earth metals) and group 7 (the halogens). These ideas are extended in Year 13 to cover the properties of Period 3 elements and their oxides, transition metals and reactions of ions in aqueous solutions.  Organic Chemistry: In Year 12 the course covers alkanes, halogen alkanes, alkenes, alcohols and organic analysis. These ideas are extended in Year 13 to cover optical isomerism, aldehydes and ketones, carboxylic acids and derivatives, aromatic chemistry, amines, polymers, amino acids, proteins and DNA, organic synthesis, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and chromatography.

Throughout the course you will carry out practical activities including measuring energy changes in chemical reactions, tests for identifying different types of compound, studying electrochemical cells, and an advanced form of chromatography for more accurate results.

The linear Advanced Level Chemistry course is assessed through three theory papers detailed below. Separate to your A Level result in Chemistry, you will receive a pass or fail in practical competence assessed through five Common Practical Assessment Criteria.   

Paper 1 (2 hour written examination, 35%, short and long answer questions) Paper 2 (2 hour written examination, 35%, short and long answer questions) Paper 3 (2 hour written examination, 30% , questions on practical techniques and data analysis, questions testing across the specification and multiple choice questions)

Computer Science Subject specific GCSE requirements: Grade 7 or above in GCSE Mathematics.

Examination Board: AQA The Computer Science course will be attractive to students who are interested in or excited by technology. It will also appeal to those thinking of Engineering, Maths or Science and can be taken as part of a broad range of options. The Computer Science curriculum is wide-ranging, and includes both theory and practical skills. You will not be expected to have completed any high-level programming before you start, as we will teach you to write your own programs.

Studying Computer Science at A Level will be a real asset to almost any future career path.

For example students who study Computing can go on to a career in medicine, law, business, politics or any type of science. Progression from Computer Science A Level can be to an undergraduate course in ‘Computing’ itself or ‘Software Engineering’, (subjects offered by almost every university and college in the country) or in a specialism (Business Computing, E-Commerce, Computer Graphics, Animation, Audio Technology, Forensics, etc.) or as one of the many combinations with other subjects.

Students who study Computer Science will develop their problem-solving ability in a computing context, as well as developing communication skills and discovering new ways to use and analyse information. The emphasis of the course is on computational thinking, which is a type of reasoning used by both humans and machines. Thinking computationally is an important life skill and involves questions that have the potential to change how we view the world.

Course Details Paper 1 (40%): Programming, Data Structures, Algorithms, Theory of Computing Paper 2 (40%): Data Representation, Computer Systems, Computer Architecture, Networking and Big Data NEA (20%): The Practical Project

Design and Technology Product Design Subject specific GCSE requirements: Grade B or above in any GCSE Design and Technology subject.

Examination Board: AQA Product design plays an increasingly important role in the world. The skills that students learn on this course and the qualification achieved will help students qualify for an enormous range of higher education and work opportunities.

This creative and thought-provoking qualification gives students the practical skills, theoretical knowledge and confidence to succeed in a number of careers, especially those in the creative industries. They will investigate historical, social, cultural, environmental and economic influences on design and technology, whilst enjoying opportunities to put their learning into practice by producing products of their choice. Students will gain a real understanding of what it means to be a designer, alongside the knowledge and skills sought by higher education and employers.

This course combines all aspects of the Design Technology GCSE courses available into one exciting product design course. The work will be challenging and varied and you will develop a wide range of skills - practical, social and intellectual. You must be hard-working, creative and experimental in your outlook and approach.

Non examination assessment (NEA) forms major part of the course and requires considerable personal commitment. The NEA consists of a single design and make activity for A Level.

Degree options include Industrial Design, Product Design (Engineering or Technology based), Engineering, Interior Design, Sport Technology, Architecture, Game Design, Automotive Design, User centred design, Web design, Interactive media.

Course Details This is a linear course based on the design and manufacture of 3D products:  Core technical principles  Core designing and making principles  Additional specialist knowledge Assessment of the course is:  50% exam (maths and science contribute 15%) across two papers.  50% non-exam assessment (NEA).

Drama and Theatre Studies Subject Specific GCSE requirements: Grade 5 or above in GCSE English Language or English Literature and Grade 6 or above in GCSE Drama. If GCSE Drama has not been taken students must have relevant performance experience and a passion for live theatre.

Examination Board: AQA This is a fascinating and enjoyable course that will develop your dramatic skills and extend your knowledge and understanding of theatre. You will explore practically the characters and contexts of different plays, experience live performances on visits to regional and West End theatres, and create your own original performances to inspire and thrill your audience. You will learn about the social, cultural, political and historical contexts of theatre whilst working on plays from the viewpoint of an actor, director and designer. You will perform in scripted and devised drama and use your own research and experiences of live theatre to inform your development as an actor/actress. You will acquire many practical theatre skills; applying different rehearsal techniques, working in an ensemble and creating physical theatre, as well as consider the technical and design aspects of live theatre.

The course is a blend of written and practical components; analytical and evaluative writing skills will be developed throughout the course and essay writing is an essential part of preparation for the final examination. Students and staff work together as a close, cooperative and disciplined team. Teamwork, creativity, communication and tact are keys to success in Drama and our students develop valuable transferable skills, equipping them for the demands of leadership.

The course can lead to a vocational degree at drama school or university courses in Drama and English/Drama. This subject complements many others due to similarities in the content and focus between English, Social Sciences, RS, Ethics, History and other arts subjects. Drama and Theatre is also satisfying to study as a contrasting discipline with other subjects such as Maths and the sciences; these more unusual combinations can often be a positive sign to universities and employers of a student’s versatility and wide ranging interests.

Course Details Component 1 - Drama and Theatre (3 hour written examination): Knowledge and understanding of drama and theatre; the study of two set plays and the analysis and evaluation of the work of live theatre makers (40%) Component 2 - Creating original drama (practical – notebook and performance): The process of creating devised drama; the performance of devised drama (students may contribute as performer or director); the influence of the work and methodologies of one prescribed practitioner (30%) Component 3: Making theatre (practical – performance and reflective report): Practical exploration and interpretation of three extracts from different plays; the methodology of a prescribed practitioner must be applied to Extract 3, performed as a final assessed piece; reflective report analysing and evaluating theatrical interpretation of all three extracts. (30%).

Economics Subject specific GCSE requirements: Grade 6 or above in GCSE Mathematics.

Examination Board: Pearson Edexcel Economics is a fascinating subject to study, as it helps you to examine the world around you, considering how and why it functions as it does. Economics can also give you new perspectives on some of the most pressing and challenging problems facing the world today.

“Economics is concerned with how society sets about meeting people’s demands for things they want to consume. It looks at the production, consumption and sale of goods and services, both at the level of individual products, firms and consumers and at the level of the total production and consumption by countries. It also compares alternative ways of using the limited resources that countries and individuals possess and considers how efficient and/or fair such alternatives are.” Professor John Sloman Economic decisions and activities impact many different areas of society and our own everyday lives - interest rate fluctuations, levels of taxation, unemployment, labour force migration and football transfer prices, to name but a few. In a world where there is increasing debate about scarcity of resources, Economics plays a key role in that it is fundamentally concerned with how to allocate those resources most efficiently.

Economics is a discussion-based subject which requires students to form opinions about the world around them. Much use is made of up-to-date resources such as the internet, newspapers and magazines.

Course Details The A Level course is assessed by three external examinations at the end of Year 13 on the following topics:  

Microeconomic concepts; developing an understanding of the nature of economics, how markets work, market failure, government intervention and business economics.

Macroeconomic concepts; developing an understanding of measures of economic performance, aggregate demand and supply, macroeconomic objectives and policy, international economics, the financial sector, and the role of the state in the macro economy.

English Language and Literature Subject specific GCSE requirements: Grade 6 or above in both GCSE English Language and GCSE English Literature.

Examination Board: AQA This course will make you a sophisticated and coherent writer and analyst which is why employers and universities welcome students with this qualification.

You will study a wide range of literary and non-literary texts and will begin to see them as interconnecting disciplines. The skills you have acquired for GCSE will be extended as you analyse more demanding material in a more detailed way. However, be aware that English Language at Key Stage 4 is not representative of this course.

You will further develop your ability to use linguistic and literary critical concepts to comment on spoken and written texts. Your own writing skills will mature as you produce texts for different audiences and purposes. The literary, historical and social backgrounds to texts will also be studied. Many lessons will involve discussion and you will be expected to contribute your own ideas and build on the ideas of others.

This course extends the traditional English Literature course by:  exploring differences and similarities between literary texts and others  analysing speech  allowing students to write creatively. Students develop skills as producers and interpreters of language by creating texts themselves and critically reflecting on their own processes of production.

Students will study texts such as:  ‘The Lovely Bones’ by Alice Sebold  ‘The Kite Runner’ by Khalid Hussein  ‘A Streetcar Named Desire’ by Tennessee Williams  A selection of poems by Carol Ann Duffy  ‘Paris’ Anthology of both fiction and non-fiction texts Course Details 2 written examinations taken at the end of the course  Paper 1: Telling stories (40% of final grade)  Paper 2: Exploring Conflict (40% of final grade) 1 NEA coursework piece  (2500-3000 words) produced by students independently and marked by teachers (20% of final grade)

English Literature Subject specific GCSE requirements: Grade 6 or above in both GCSE English Language and GCSE English Literature.

Examination Board: AQA This is an exciting course for students who enjoy reading and talking about texts, discussing themes, characterisation and the ways the authors present their ideas. You will study in detail a wide range of contemporary and traditional texts and learn to use more advanced literary analysis skills. This will involve using critical concepts and terminology, some of which you will have come across already in GCSE and others which will be new to you. You will develop your own responses to literature and also consider other readers’ interpretations. Most lessons will involve discussion and you should be prepared to offer your ideas and to listen to and build on the ideas of others.

The aims and objectives of the A Level course in English Literature are to enable students to:  read set texts independently and read other texts that they have selected for themselves  engage critically and creatively with a substantial body of texts and ways of responding to them  develop and effectively apply their knowledge of literary analysis and evaluation  explore the contexts of the texts they are reading and others’ interpretations of them  undertake independent and sustained studies to deepen their appreciation and understanding of English literature, including its changing traditions.

The qualification requires students to study six literary texts. Two of these have to be pre-1900 texts (including one Shakespeare play), plus one text first published or performed post-2000.

Students will also study a range of unseen poetry and prose. Core texts are likely to include:    

‘Othello’ or ‘The Taming of the Shrew’ by William Shakespeare AQA ‘Love through the Ages’ poetry collection One prose text, either: ‘Wuthering Heights’, ‘The Awakening’, ‘The Great Gatsby’, ‘Atonement’ or ‘Tess of the D’Urbervilles’ ‘A Streetcar Named Desire’ and ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’

Course Details 2 units assessed by public examination at the end of the course:  Love through the Ages (40% of final grade)  Texts in shared contexts (40% of final grade) 1 NEA coursework unit  (2,500 words) completed by students independently and marked by teacher (20% of final grade)

Food Science and Nutrition (Level 3 Diploma) Subject specific GCSE requirements: Grade 5 or above in GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition, or Grade B or above in any Design Technology subject or a Grade 5 or above in Biology Examination Board: WJEC "To reverse the obesity epidemic we need our fellow humans to be able to source and prepare real food, not to microwave fake food.” Zoe Harcombe (Obesity researcher) The importance of a healthy diet and an understanding of food and nutrition is essential for life. Food science and nutrition is relevant to many industries and job roles: care providers and nutritionists in hospitals use this knowledge; hotels and restaurants, food manufacturers and government agencies also use this understanding to develop menus, food products and policies that that support healthy eating initiatives. Together with other relevant qualifications such as Biology, Chemistry, Sociology, PE and Maths, learners will gain the required knowledge to be able to use the qualification to support entry to higher education courses such as BSc Food and Nutrition, BSc Human Nutrition, BSc (Hons) Public Health Nutrition and BSc (Hons) Food Science and Technology.

The WJEC Level 3 Diploma in Food Science and Nutrition has been designed to provide learners with underpinning knowledge, understanding and skills to progress to further study and training. It offers exciting and interesting experiences through applied learning, specifically through the acquisition of knowledge and understanding in purposeful contexts linked to the food production industry Course Details The WJEC Level 3 Diploma in Food Science and Nutrition is made up of four units. All learners must take Units One and Two and then select either Unit Three or Unit Four.  Unit 1, Meeting the Nutritional Needs of Specific Groups, will enable the learner to demonstrate an understanding of the science of food safety, nutrition and nutritional needs in a wide range of contexts, and through on–going practical sessions, to gain practical skills to produce quality food items to meet the needs of individuals.  Unit 2, Ensuring Food is Safe to Eat, allows learners to develop their understanding of the science of food safety and hygiene; essential knowledge for anyone involved in food production in the home or wishing to work in the food industry. Again practical sessions will support the gaining of theoretical knowledge and ensure learning is a tactile experience.  Studying one of the two optional units allows learners the opportunity to study subjects of particular interest or relevance to them, building on previous learning and experiences. These are Unit 3, Experimenting to Solve Food Production and Unit 4, Current Issues in Food Science and Nutrition.

Food Science and Nutrition (Level 3 Diploma) Subject specific GCSE requirements: Grade 5 or above in GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition, or Grade B or above in any Design Technology subject or a Grade 5 or above in Biology Examination Board: WJEC The WJEC Level 3 Diploma in Food Science and Nutrition is assessed through a combination of a written exam and external assignment set and marked by WJEC and two centre marked assignments.

Unit 1, Meeting Nutritional Needs of Specific Groups (90 marks) will be both internally and externally assessed. Details of the external assessment are as follows: • 90 minute examination; plus 15 minutes reading time • Total of 90 marks • Three sections on each paper; Section A contains short answer questions, Section B contains extended answer questions, Section C relates to a case study.

Unit 2, Ensuring Food is Safe to Eat is an externally set assignment based on an eight hour timed, supervised assessment issued by the exam board. Each external assessment will involve the learner applying the knowledge, understanding and skills learned throughout the unit to information provided in a scenario. The scenario will relate to a food safety situation. It will require learners to analyse the information and make judgements regarding the potential food safety risk.

Optional Units 3 and 4 are internally assessed by way of a controlled assessment assignment.

This qualification is equivalent to an A Level with Distinction* earning equivalent UCAS Points to A* at A Level.

Geography Subject specific GCSE requirements: Grade 6 or above in GCSE Geography or in History/Religious Studies as well as a Grade 6 or above in English Language or Literature.

Examination Board: Pearson Edexcel Students who take Geography have a keen interest in the world around them and how the world is a dynamic and changing place. As a subject that bridges both the natural and social sciences, Geography seeks to understand societies, places and environments, and many geographical issues are highly relevant to current issues. Universities recognise and value that students who have studied Geography develop a range of valuable and transferable skills which make them employable and adaptive learners.

Students will explore and evaluate contemporary geographical questions and issues. They will also have the opportunity to develop an in-depth understanding of physical and human geography, and to become critical, reflective and independent learners.

Studying Geography at A Level will enhance communication skills, ICT (including use of Geographical Information Systems), spatial awareness, team working and problem-solving.

Geography by nature is a very practical subject, and fieldwork plays an essential part of the course. There will be a combination of residential and local physical and human fieldwork.

This will be assessed through questions on examination papers and through an independent investigation.

In Year 12 there is a minimum of 2 days of fieldwork and in Year 13 a minimum of 4 days of fieldwork carried out. Fieldwork must be undertaken in relation to physical and human geography. All A Level students will complete one Independent Investigation, which will be a non-examined assessment and must draw on fieldwork - this is 20% of the A Level.

Course Details  Dynamic Landscapes - Tectonic Processes and Hazards, Landscape Systems, Processes and Change - Coastal Landscapes  Dynamic Places - Globalisation, Shaping and Regenerating Places  Physical Systems and Sustainability - The Water Cycle and Water Insecurity, the Carbon Cycle and Energy Security, Climate Change Futures  Human Systems and Geopolitics - Superpowers, Global Development and Connections and Health, Human Rights and Intervention The A Level course is assessed by 3 examinations at the end of Year 13: Paper 1 is worth 30% of the overall grade.

Paper 2 is worth 30% of the overall grade.

Paper 3 is worth 20% of the overall grade.

Independent investigation is worth 20% of the overall grade.

Health and Social Care (Level 3 Cambridge Technical Extended Certificate) Subject specific GCSE requirements: Grade 5 in GCSE English Language or English Literature.

Examination Board: OCR This qualification is equivalent to an A Level. It can be gained at Pass, Distinction or Distinction*, each of which earns set amounts of UCAS Points. As it is a more vocational style of course it would suit anyone considering a career in any part of the health or social care sector. It would also combine well with Psychology, Sociology and Biology. It would be excellent preparation for any Health and Social Care related vocational degree, apprenticeship or Higher Level Technical Qualification. The course will be run by the Social Sciences Department.

Course Details The course consists of a Core and Optional Units. Within the Core there are four units. These consist of: building positive relationships in health and social care; equality, diversity and rights in health and social care; health, safety and security in health and social care and anatomy and physiology for health and social care. The last three of these are assessed by external examination, whilst the first is internally assessed by teachers. The course will also include the option units psychology for health and social care and sociology for health and social care. These options will also be internally assessed.

The internal assessment will be designed by the teachers and will involve portfolios based on analysis of case studies, research and related work experience. These assessments will be approved by the examination board and moderated externally.

The written examinations will consist of a variety of multiple choice, short answer questions and those requiring more extended responses.

History Subject specific GCSE requirements: Grade 6 or above in GCSE History and Grade 6 in GCSE English Language or English Literature.

Examination Board: AQA Studying History at A Level allows you to develop a deeper understanding of the motives of humankind. You will study a period of great change in British History where you will assess the ability of monarchs to affect religious change peacefully. You will develop your understanding of the role of belief in the history of the Middle East and how far governments can control and mould it. Unusually for one A Level course, we have chosen options from Medieval, Early Modern and Modern History, allowing those who wish to study History at undergraduate level a broad experience.

In studying History, you will learn to acquire historical knowledge independently and this will improve your research skills. You will develop a mind open to evaluating both sides of an argument. You will learn to make well considered judgements and use evidence to support them. Plenty of opportunity will be provided to develop your writing skills to communicate your opinions in a sophisticated fashion.

The ability to criticise sources and their interpretations is central to the course. You will be expected to appreciate different interpretations of the past and to make your own judgements on them. The opportunity to follow your own line of enquiry will be provided in the Historical Enquiry element.

The History course aims to develop an interest in and enthusiasm for History and it also provides a useful qualification. A study of History at this level forms a good basis for a range of careers including the law, journalism, broadcasting, public relations and marketing.

Course Details Units 1 and 2 are assessed by examination. Each Unit is worth 40% of the total A Level.

Unit 1 - The Age of the Crusades, 1071-1204 Unit 2 - Religious Conflict and the Church in England, c1529-1547 Unit 3 - Historical Enquiry You must also complete a Personal Study (untimed coursework), an independently carried out investigation of approximately 3000-3500 words on an historical issue of your own choosing relating to the modern Middle East or, at teacher discretion, to another topic for which you can demonstrate you have sufficient sources. This Unit is worth 20% of your total A Level.

Information Technology (Level 3 Cambridge Technical Extended Certificate) Subject specific GCSE requirements: General Sixth Form entry requirements.

Examination Board: AQA This qualification is equivalent to an A Level and is designed for learners who want to continue their education through applied learning, developing their knowledge and understanding of the principles of IT and global information systems.

Almost all occupations and industries rely heavily on effective ICT. Choosing to study this subject will provide you with an opportunity to understand the factors involved in developing and managing effective and efficient ICT systems used in today's digital world. You will study how and why organisations & individuals use technology using a range of software and hardware. The course develops project management, problem solving, organisation, and creative and technical ICT skills.

Achievement of this qualification can support progression to relevant higher education courses in Computing and IT, Computing Science, Software Developments, Software Engineering, ICT and Computer Networks or Business Information Systems. Also, as the Cambridge Technical Certificates have been developed with leading companies within the IT industry, achievement of this qualification can also support learners with the aim of becoming an attractive candidate for many job roles in a variety of sectors. It is a subject that combines well with a variety of other Level 3 subjects, especially Art, Business, Computer Science, Economics and Media Studies.

Course Details Learners will take five units to achieve this qualification. There are three mandatory units that are externally assessed by examination. These are the Fundamentals of IT, Global Information and Cyber Security. The first two mandatory units provide learners with an insight into the IT sector as you investigate the pace of technological change, IT infrastructure, the flow of information on a global scale and important legal and security considerations. The third mandatory unit reflects an important development in the sector around information security and requires learners to consider how data should be protected and the response of the IT sector to emerging threats such as cyber terrorism. The optional units assessed by coursework include Project management, Product development, Systems analysis and design and the Internet of Everything. All units assist in the development of transferrable skills such as communication and problem solving. The optional units encourage the development of time management, research and analytical skills as well as emphasising the need for good written and verbal communication skills.

The Extended Certificate is assessed using a combination of external assessment and internal assessment. Every unit achieved will be graded as Pass, Merit or Distinction.

Mathematics and Further Mathematics Subject specific GCSE requirements: For Mathematics - Grade 8 or above in GCSE Mathematics or Grade 7 and 75%+ in the induction test in September.

For Further Mathematics - Grade 8 or above in GCSE Mathematics.

Examination Board: Pearson Edexcel If you have enjoyed and felt confident with the Mathematics that you have met at GCSE, then you are encouraged to consider taking Mathematics as an A Level subject. Mathematics has wide applications and is highly regarded by employers. A Level Mathematics is often a prerequisite for university courses (such as Physics, Engineering, Computing, and, of course, Mathematics itself) and is desirable for many other courses including Architecture, Medicine, Chemistry and Accountancy. In addition, degrees in Biology, Economics, Geography and Psychology all involve Mathematics or Statistics modules. There is currently a national shortage of qualified mathematicians which means that completing an A Level Mathematics course can vastly improve your prospects. Mathematics is enjoyable in its own right and provides excellent training in logical thought.

In studying A Level Mathematics you will meet some of the ideas which have absorbed the greatest minds in history. Differential calculus is arguably the most powerful tool of the last 400 years and has led to all of modern Theoretical Physics, space flight etc. However Mathematics is a demanding and challenging subject and you will need strong motivation, a good level of ability and real determination if you are to benefit from the course.

For the best mathematicians it is possible to gain an extra qualification. We offer Further Mathematics as an additional A Level. You will undertake more Pure Mathematics, as well as additional topics in Statistics & Mechanics. If you intend to study Further Mathematics it is required that you have gained a Grade 8 at GCSE. You are strongly advised to consider taking A Levels in both Mathematics and Further Mathematics if you are intending to study Mathematics, Physics or Engineering at university. To find out more about the benefits of studying Mathematics at A Level, visit the website www.mathscareers.org.uk.

Course Details A Level Mathematics There is no coursework and assessment is by three examination papers of 2 hours each; two papers of Pure Mathematics and a paper examining Statistics & Mechanics.

A Level Further Mathematics There is no coursework and assessment is by four examination papers of 1 hour 30 minutes each. These cover Further Pure & some applications; two papers are compulsory Pure Mathematics topics and the other two are Mechanics, Statistics and Further Pure topics.

Media Studies Subject specific GCSE requirements: General Sixth Form entry requirements. However, students may have some difficulty if they did not achieve Grade 6 or above in English Language and/or Literature at GCSE level.

Examination Board: AQA How the media represent the world is the basis for much of our understanding. Therefore, we each need core media literacy skills, as readers of the quotidian flow of television, online media and print media messages. Helping the student become more than functionally media literate is one of the main aims of Media Studies; becoming media literate means becoming an autonomous and critical reader of all forms of media. The media have real relevance and importance in our lives today, providing us with ways to communicate, with forms of cultural expression and the ability to participate in key aspects of society. Media Studies therefore helps students to develop students’ skills of analysis as well as help them to become effective and creative producers of media products.

The A Level course focuses on a range of media forms. These include television, magazines and online media. The course will enable students to:  analyse the representations that are constructed in media products and explore the issues and debates that arise.  explore the contexts of media products. Students will investigate the political, economic, historical and social impact on how media is produced and how it is interpreted.  discuss the global context of media products. How has globalisation affected the production, distribution and reception of media products? What effect has the internet had on our consumption of media messages?  compare contemporary media to historical products to understand how media products and the messages within them have changed.  compare mainstream and alternative media.  understand and critique a range of theoretical perspectives to aid their analysis and understanding. Being able to explain and apply these theories will be key to a student’s success on this course.

Course Details The Media Studies A Level includes a ‘non-examined assessment’. This is a media production unit which is produced in school, marked by the teacher and then moderated by the exam board. This element is 30% of the A Level. Students will be required to produce two products that are linked in some way. The exam board will set briefs for the students but there is likely to be a choice of options.

Modern Foreign Languages French, German and Spanish Subject specific GCSE requirements: Grade 7 or above in the relevant GCSE Modern Foreign Language or Grade 6 and 75%+ in the induction test in September.

Examination Board: French AQA, German AQA, Spanish AQA The aim of A Level language courses is to enable you to communicate confidently, clearly and effectively through both the spoken and written word. During the course, you will also have the opportunity to learn a great deal about the social, artistic and political culture of the countries in which your chosen language is spoken. The course will guide you through from GCSE level to help you reach a more sophisticated level of language whereby you are able to use a wide variety of vocabulary and your expression becomes increasingly accurate and complex.

The course also aims to improve your reading, listening and translation skills. You will be introduced to a wide range of up to date texts and you will also be expected to undertake some of your own research. Through developing these skills, you will also gain a very good insight into the culture and current affairs of your target language countries. You will find that the topics which are studied are varied and relevant to your personal interests, as well as the next stage of your education and your career.

An A Level language offers a satisfying and enjoyable course, with many practical benefits, and we find that the study of Modern Foreign Languages is highly valued by both universities and employers.

Topics studied in French A Level include  Aspects of French-speaking society: current trends  The changing nature of family (La famille en voie de changement)  The 'cyber-society' (La « cyber-société »)  How criminals are treated (Comment on traite les criminels)  Artistic culture in the French-speaking world  A culture proud of its heritage (Une culture fière de son patrimoine)  Cinema: the 7th art form (Cinéma : le septième art)  Aspects of political life in the French-speaking world Students will study a French film and one work of French literature. They will complete an Individual research Project. Students must identify a subject or a key question which is of interest to them and which relates to a country or countries where French is spoken.

Topics studied in German A Level  Aspects of German-speaking society  The digital world (Die digitale Welt)  Youth culture: fashion and trends, music, television (Jugendkultur: Mode, Musik und Fernsehen)  Multiculturalism in German-speaking society  Artistic culture in the German-speaking world

Modern Foreign Languages French, German and Spanish Subject specific GCSE requirements: Grade 7 or above in the relevant GCSE Modern Foreign Language or Grade 6 and 75%+ in the induction test in September.

Examination Board: French AQA, German AQA, Spanish AQA 

Festivals and traditions (Feste und Traditionen)  German re-unification and its consequences (Die Wiedervereinigung und ihre Folgen) Students will study a German film and one work of German literature. They will complete an individual research Project. Students must identify a subject or a key question which is of interest to them and which relates to a country or countries where German is spoken.

Topics studied in Spanish A Level  Aspects of Hispanic society  Modern and traditional values (Los valores tradicionales y modernos)  Equal rights (La igualdad de los sexos)  Multiculturalism in Hispanic society  Integration (La Convivencia)  Artistic culture in the Hispanic world  Modern day idols (La influencia de los ídolos)  Monarchies, republics and dictatorships (Monarquías, repúblicas y dictaduras) Students will study a Spanish film and one work of Spanish literature. They will complete an Individual research Project. Students must identify a subject or a key question which is of interest to them and which relates to a country or countries where Spanish is spoken.

Course Details  Paper 1: Listening, reading and writing (including translations) 50%  Paper 2: Writing (essays on the chosen literary text and film) 20%  Paper 3: Speaking. (a presentation based on the individual research project and discussion of a topic-based stimulus card) 30%

Physical Education Subject specific GCSE requirements: Grade 6 or above in GCSE Physical Education. When GCSE Physical Education has not been taken, a student may be considered with Grade 5 or above in Biology with evidence of competing to county standard in at least one sport.

Examination Board: AQA In following this course you will have the opportunity to study many different aspects of Physical Education. You will learn about sport, from grassroots to elite level, as well as the development of competitive sport. Healthy lifestyles, fitness and training, sport psychology and preparation for sports performance are also covered extensively throughout the course. A minimum of 5% of the overall assessment will be on quantitative skills. You will be assessed practically as a performer or coach in one sport.

The course is a mixture of directed and independent study. You will be asked to research topics and make short presentations to the class whilst keeping up to date with current affairs in sport.

This qualification may be used for a growing number of sports related courses offered at universities including Sports and Exercise Science, Nutrition, Sports Psychology, Anatomy, Sports Management, Sports Journalism or Teaching/Coaching or you may use this qualification to gain employment in the growth industry of sport.

Course Details Paper 1 (35%): Applied anatomy and physiology; Skill acquisition; Sport and society.

Paper 2 (35%): Exercise physiology and biomechanics; Sport psychology; Sport and society and technology in sport Non-exam assessment (30%) Students are assessed as a player/performer or coach in the full sided version of one activity from the list below (15%) and must also complete a written/verbal analysis and evaluation of either their own or the performance of another performance (15%).            

Amateur Boxing Association Football Athletics Badmington Basketball Camogie Canoeing Cricket Cycling Dance Diving Equestrian

           

Gaelic Football Golf Gymnastics Handball Hockey Hurling Kayaking Lacrosse Netball Rock Climbing Rowing Rugby League

         

Rugby Union Sculling Skiing Snowboarding Squash Swimming Table Tennis Tennis Tampolining Volleyball

Eight specialist activities also qualify: Blind Cricket; Boccia; Goal ball; Powerchair Football; Polybat Table Cricket; Wheelchair Basketball; Wheelchair Football; and Wheelchair Rugby.

Physics Subject specific GCSE requirements: Grade 6 or above in GCSE Physics or 7-7 or above in GCSE Combined Science. Grade 7 or above in GCSE Mathematics is also required.

BTEC Science courses, GCSE Applied Science and GCSE Additional Applied Science are not suitable preparation for this course.

Examination Board: AQA Physics is a rigorous and well respected qualification, highly valued by universities. Many students go on to study Science, Medicine, Engineering or Maths at university, but others choose Physics as an interesting and challenging complement to their other subjects. A qualification in Physics is essential for many branches of engineering and recommended for courses in Pure Science, Electronics, Veterinary Science and Medicine. It is also an excellent preparation for many other careers not so obviously related. To make a success of Physics, you should be interested in understanding and explaining physical phenomena and enjoy experimental work. A Level Physics requires a good level of competency in mathematics, and while it is not necessary to take Maths A Level, you will find Physics easier if you do.

You will already have come across some of the concepts of Physics at GCSE: forces, energy, waves, radioactivity, electricity and magnetism. At A Level you will start to see how these ideas work together, and begin to grasp the universal principles that apply to everything from the smallest atoms to the largest galaxies.

Whatever you do in the future the knowledge and skills you gain by studying Physics will be useful. Physics is more than a subject - it trains your brain to think beyond boundaries.

Physics is fundamentally an experimental subject. This specification provides numerous opportunities to use practical experiences to link theory to reality, and will equip students with the essential practical skills they need.

Course Details  Measurements and their errors  Particles and radiation  Waves  Mechanics and materials

   

Electricity Further mechanics and thermal physics Fields and their consequences Nuclear physics

There are five optional topics as part of the full A Level course (students will study one):  Astrophysics  Engineering physics  Medical physics  Electronics  Turning points in physics Paper 1: Core content sections 1 to 5 (2 hours) Paper 2: Core content sections 6 to 8 (2 hours) Paper 3: Practical analysis skills and optional content (2 hours) Practical skills will also be assessed separately to the A Level.

Politics Subject specific GCSE requirements: Grade 6 or above in GCSE English Language or English Literature.

Examination Board: Pearson Edexcel This is an exciting time to be studying Politics at A level. The political landscape is shifting.

Voters in the UK and the USA have surprised political commentators with their choices.

Ideological, political and constitutional change are happening at pace and you can be in the front seat, analysing these events to establish their effects on who really holds power.

The Politics course aims to prepare you for citizenship of the UK and of the world. Here, you will learn about the nature of power and systems through which it is wielded. You will learn how to effectively influence governments and will establish your own political philosophy.

During the course you will develop the ability to understand different political systems, discussing them in the light of recent developments. We use a variety of political sources to understand both the way in which government works and current issues. Apart from acquiring information and skills relevant for careers in politics, the media, law, the civil service and local government, you will have the opportunity to develop a lasting interest in politics and current affairs. Previous students of this course have moved, after university, into the charity and policy sectors, roles in UK political parties, journalism and law.

Course Details  Component 1: UK Politics & Core Political Ideas You will study UK Politics. Here, you will understand the methods by which British citizens ensure their views are heard by government. Topics include: political parties, electoral systems, voting behaviour, the media and pressure groups. Here also, you will learn where your views fit in relation to the core ideologies of Conservatism, Liberalism and Socialism.  Component 2: UK Government & Non-Core Political Ideas You will study the institutions of government in the UK, assessing whether our constitution, Parliament, executive branch and judiciary are sufficiently democratic. We will also study feminism.  Component 3: Comparative Politics: Government & Politics of the USA US Government and Politics includes similar topics to the UK Government and UK Politics courses, comparing the US system to the UK system, examining which system is more democratic, and which provides its citizens with the greatest opportunities for participation.

The A Level course is assessed by 3 equally-weighted examinations at the end of Year 13 of 2hrs duration each. There is no coursework.

Psychology Subject specific GCSE requirements: Grade 6 or above in GCSE English Language or English Literature, Grade 5 or above in GCSE Mathematics, and Grade 6 in any GCSE Science (including Psychology).

Examination Board: AQA Psychology A Level will offer you the opportunity to look at some of the explanations psychologists make to understand humans and their interactions with the world.

The course aims to develop your awareness and understanding of psychological theories, research, concepts and methods and of ethical issues in psychology, such as the ethical implications of psychological research. You will explore many different areas of Psychology, including the core areas of Cognitive, Social, Developmental and Biological Psychology together with Psychopathology, Approaches to Psychology and Research Methods.

The topics covered will reflect some contemporary issues and classic research studies. Through designing and reporting psychological investigations, you will develop the skills of analysis, interpretation and evaluation.

From a personal perspective you should find the fundamental questions of psychology interesting: Why do I behave like this? Why do I feel like this? Why do I think like this?

Psychology combines well with many subjects including Sociology, English Literature, Mathematics and Biology. It is not necessary to have studied Psychology A Level to follow a degree course in Psychology but it is relevant to any of the caring professions as well as employment in such diverse areas as advertising, management and human resources.

Course Details Unit 1 Social Influence, Memory, Attachment, Psychopathology.

Unit 2 Approaches in Psychology, Biopsychology and Research Methods.

Unit 3 Issues and Debates in Psychology, Relationships, Schizophrenia, and one other option (to be decided).

There is no assessed coursework, but there will be a need to design, carry out and report on research undertaken in groups as part of the course.

Religious Studies Subject specific GCSE requirements Grade 6 or above in GCSE Religious Studies full course. If Religious Studies was not studied we require Grade 6 or above in GCSE English Language or English Literature.

Examination Board: Pearson Edexcel In this course you will be exploring deep and difficult questions about life within the context of disciplined academic study. The course is separated into three distinct areas that cover Religion, Philosophy and Ethics. You will be required to develop interest in, and enthusiasm for, the rigorous study of philosophical and religious issues and to relate this study to the wider world. You will learn to approach these issues in an enquiring, critical and empathetic manner.

You will learn to sustain a critical line of argument and justify a point of view. In addition, you will learn from some great, traditional and contemporary philosophical theorists.

Course Details Philosophy of Religion (33.3% 2 hour external examination)  Philosophical issues and questions  The nature and influence of religious experience  Problems of evil and suffering  Religious language  Works of scholars  Influences of developments in religious belief Study of Christianity (33.3% 2 hour external examination)  Religious beliefs, values and teachings  Sources of wisdom and authority  Practices that shape and express religious identity  Social and historical developments  Works of scholars  Religion and society Ethics (33.3% 2 hour external examination)  Significant concepts in issues or debates in religion and ethics  A study of three ethical theories  Application of ethical theories to issues of importance  Ethical language  Deontology, Virtue Ethics and the works of scholars  Medical ethics: beginning and end of life issues

Sociology Subject specific GCSE requirements: Grade 6 or above in GCSE English Language or English Literature.

Examination Board: AQA The Sociology A Level course has five main aims. These are to enable you to:     

acquire knowledge and a critical understanding of contemporary social processes and structures. appreciate the significance of theoretical and conceptual issues in sociological debate understand sociological methodology and a range of research methods. reflect on your own experience of the social world in which you live. develop skills which enhance your ability to participate more effectively in adult life.

Specific skills will include the ability to acquire and present evidence and the interpretation and evaluation of that evidence in relation to a range of sociological debates.

The subject is not one in which there is a clear cut correct answer to each issue. Rather there are a number of perspectives which you will need to consider before you reach your own conclusion. Therefore a willingness to keep an open mind and to discuss issues is essential.

You will need to be prepared to work independently on coursework and to maintain a high level of awareness of relevant current affairs.

The course will challenge your previously held views, but should also lead to a much greater understanding of the society in which you live.

Course Details The course is examined in 3 units each of which provides a 1/3 of the total marks. The details of each unit are as follows:   

Unit 1 covers the topics of the Sociology of Education, Research Methodology and Methodology in the Context of Education.

Unit 2 covers Families and Households and Beliefs in Society.

Unit 3 covers Crime and Deviance and Theories and Methodology.

All are examined through a mixture of short answer questions and short and full length essays.

There is no assessed coursework.

A Level Examination Results 2017 Results are based on Year 13 Students A2 Grade A*- A A*- B A*- C 3 or more A*- A 3 or more A*- B 3 or more A*- C

% 26.4 59.0 86.0 8.8 32.4 69.4

Student Destinations Post Sixth Form 2017 Destination University/Russell Group University* Employment Art Foundation Course Apprenticeship Gap Year Other destinations

% of Year Group 71.9 4.68 1.17 9.36 9.36 3.5

* This includes students who have a confirmed deferred university place for 2018.

25.5% of these students are at Russell Group Universities.

Russell Group Destinations University of Birmingham: University of Bristol: University of Cambridge: Cardiff University: Durham University: University of Exeter: University of Glasgow: University of Leeds: University of Liverpool: University of Manchester: Newcastle University: University of Nottingham: Queen Mary University of London: University of Sheffield: University of Southampton: University of York:

2 students 1 student 1 student* 3 students 1 student 2 students 1 student 1 student 3 students 3 students 2 students 2 students 1 student 2 students 4 students 1 student

*One student from the 2016 cohort has also been admitted to the University of Cambridge this year.

Sixth Form Entry Requirements for September 2018 General Sixth Form Entry Requirements: Admission to the Sixth Form will be as a result of applicants achieving a minimum Grade 5 in English Language and Mathematics. In total students need to have achieved at least six GCSEs of which at least four subjects are at Grade 6 (or Grade B). In addition students must meet subject entry requirements. Students meeting only the minimum entry requirements for the Sixth Form are likely to find the choice of subjects which they can access is restricted.

Subject

Subject Entry Requirements (GCSE full courses)

Art (Art, Craft and Design):

Grade 6 (or B) or above in GCSE Art. For students who do not have a GCSE in Art and Design, assessment of a portfolio (or of a relevant GCSE controlled assessment project) will be required to study A Level Art (Art, Craft and Design).

Grade 6 (or B) or above in GCSE Art. For students who do not have a GCSE in Art and Design, assessment of a portfolio of work will be necessary to study A Level Graphic Communication.

Grade 6 or above in GCSE Biology or 7-7 or above in GCSE Combined Science. Grade 6 or above in GCSE Mathematics is also required.

BTEC Science courses, GCSE Applied Science and GCSE Additional Applied Science are not suitable preparation for this course.

General Sixth Form entry requirements.

Grade 6 or above in GCSE Chemistry or 7-7 or above in GCSE Combined Science. Grade 7 or above in GCSE Mathematics is also required.

BTEC Science courses, GCSE Applied Science and GCSE Additional Applied Science are not suitable preparation for this course.

Grade 7 or above in GCSE Mathematics.

Grade B or above in any GCSE Design and Technology subject.

Art (Graphic Communication): Biology:

Business: Chemistry:

Computer Science: Design and Technology Product Design: Drama and Theatre Studies:

Grade 5 or above in GCSE English Language or English Literature and Grade 6 or above in GCSE Drama. If GCSE Drama has not been taken students must have relevant performance experience and a passion for live theatre.

Economics: Grade 6 or above in GCSE Mathematics.

English Language and Grade 6 or above in both GCSE English Language and GCSE English Literature: Literature.

English Literature: Grade 6 or above in both GCSE English Language and GCSE English Literature.

Food Science and Grade 5 or above in GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition, or Grade B or Nutrition above in any Design Technology subject or a Grade 5 or above in Biology.

Geography: Grade 6 or above in GCSE Geography or in History/Religious Studies as well as a Grade 6 or above in English Language or Literature.

Health and Social Grade 5 in GCSE English Language or English Literature.

Care History: Grade 6 or above in GCSE History and Grade 6 in GCSE English Language or English Literature.

Sixth Form Entry Requirements for September 2018 General Sixth Form Entry Requirements: Admission to the Sixth Form will be as a result of applicants achieving a minimum Grade 5 in English Language and Mathematics. In total students need to have achieved at least six GCSEs of which at least four subjects are at Grade 6 (or Grade B). In addition students must meet subject entry requirements. Students meeting only the minimum entry requirements for the sixth form are likely to find the choice of subjects which they can access is restricted.

Subject

Subject Entry Requirements (GCSE full courses)

Information Technology: Mathematics and Further Mathematics:

General Sixth Form entry requirements.

Media Studies:

MFL: French, German, Spanish Physical Education:

Physics:

Politics: Psychology:

Religious Studies:

Sociology:

For Mathematics - Grade 8 or above in GCSE Mathematics or Grade 7 and 75%+ in the induction test in September.

For Further Mathematics - Grade 8 or above in GCSE Mathematics.

General Sixth Form entry requirements. However, students may have some difficulty if they did not achieve Grade 6 or above in English Language and/or Literature at GCSE level.

Grade 7 or above in the relevant GCSE Modern Foreign Language or Grade 6 and 75%+ in the induction test in September.

Grade 6 or above in GCSE Physical Education. When GCSE Physical Education has not been taken, a student may be considered with Grade 5 or above in Biology with evidence of competing to county standard in at least one sport.

Grade 6 or above in GCSE Physics or 7-7 or above in GCSE Combined Science. Grade 7 or above in GCSE Mathematics is also required.

BTEC Science courses, GCSE Applied Science and GCSE Additional Applied Science are not suitable preparation for this course.

Grade 6 or above in GCSE English Language or English Literature.

Grade 6 or above in GCSE English Language or English Literature, Grade 5 or above in GCSE Mathematics, and Grade 6 in any GCSE Science (including Psychology).

Grade 6 or above in GCSE Religious Studies full course. If Religious Studies was not studied we require Grade 6 or above in GCSE English Language or English Literature.

Grade 6 or above in GCSE English Language or English Literature.

MGGS awarded Google ‘Leading Light’ Status!

We are very proud to announce that Maidstone Grammar School for Girls is now a certified Google ‘Leading Light’ School.

MGGS has been integrating GSuite for Education (Google’s education platform) into teaching and learning for over 4 years. During this time Google tools have become part of our school culture and an essential part of day to day academic life. From setting and handing in homework on Google Classrooms, researching and writing up projects on Google Docs, sharing and collaborating on resources using Google Drive, to organising meetings in Google Calendar and communicating via GMail, Google’s tools are always being used.

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