2024-2026 NHSG Sixth Form Curriculum Brochure by ncl38

Sixth Form Course Details 2024 - 26 Where girls learn without limits

The stepping stone to your future Studying at NHSG Sixth Form is an important stepping stone to future success, placing you firmly on the road to university or degree level apprenticeships, your future career, and life beyond university in the world of work. Intellectual development, personal growth and a love of learning are at the heart of what we offer at Sixth Form. Sixth Form at NHSG provides the ideal bridge between the final years at school and the world beyond. Time and time again when I speak with NHSG Sixth Form pupils and alumnae they tell me that the most treasured time of their educational experience was the Sixth Form at NHSG – they tell me about the support they have received from teachers and friends, the inspiring academic journey they have been on as they specialise in their chosen areas of study, the strength of our community, the wide ranging opportunities they were offered and how they have been empowered to reach for their dreams. Sixth Form at NHSG is an exciting next step. Girls frequently comment on just how different Sixth Form is from earlier years of school, stemming from the greater intellectual freedom and challenge they experience, the greater independence they have and the evolving interactions with teaching staff. Our academic programme in Sixth Form is shaped by outstanding teaching delivered by inspirational teachers whose aim is for you to achieve the very best you can; teachers who are keen to share their passion for their subjects and encourage you to learn more. Lessons are high energy and pace; they encourage your spirit of enquiry and challenge you intellectually to explore subjects in greater depth. Our superb facilities and smaller class sizes are the perfect combination to enable you to learn without limits, and achieve outstanding A Level results. Our Life 360 enrichment programme ensures that you are prepared for life beyond university and a huge range of additional opportunities are available to you, both

locally and nationally through our membership of the Girls’ Day School Trust, from the GDST Oxbridge preparation weekend to the GDST LEAD programme run in conjunction with the London School of Economics. Our substantial links with universities and businesses serve to expand the range of opportunities even further. As NHSG’s vision is to empower girls to be leaders, trailblazers and world-shapers, we place high importance on personal as well as intellectual growth. Our superb leadership, enrichment and co-curricular programmes are designed to broaden horizons and develop new skills that will enhance your Sixth Form experience; these will stand you in good stead for the rest of your life. It is through these programmes, and shared experiences with your peers, that you will develop strong friendships and feel a real sense of community here at NHSG. NHSG Sixth Form is, without doubt, sociable, lively and exciting. We are big enough to offer you a huge range of experiences and opportunities but not so big that we don’t know you as an individual. You will be intellectually challenged and stimulated, in a place where you will learn to be increasingly independent and, with expert teaching and guidance, be supported to realise your dreams.

Mrs H Harrison Director of Sixth Form 3

Welcome to the Sixth Form An exceptional education for every girl. 06 09 10 12 15 18 20 21 22 23 24 25 25 26

Sixth Form is all about your choices Blazing a trail of your own The world needs more women leaders! Our enrichment programme Preparing for your future Our Academic Programme Art & Design: Fine Art; Textile Design; Graphic Communication Biology Business Chemistry Classics: Latin; Classical Civilisation Computer Science Dance Drama and Theatre

27 28 29 30 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42

Economics English Literature Geography History Mathematics and Further Mathematics Modern Foreign Languages: French; German; Spanish Music Philosophy Physical Education Physics Politics Psychology Religious Studies GCSE Requirements for Sixth Form A Level case studies

Sixth Form is all about your choices Life in NHSG Sixth Form is different from the rest of the School. You will enjoy more freedom and choice as well as face more challenges. In the Sixth Form you will follow an academic programme which will include your chosen A Levels and study for the Extended Project Qualification, the project for which you will choose. If you are interested in the Arts, you may choose a Gold Arts Award instead.

Teaching will be different too. You will have more adult style relationships with your teachers as you move towards adulthood yourself. You will have some of your lessons in our tutorial rooms while also taking advantage of all the excellent facilities at Senior School. You will have first-rate resources and technology on hand and plenty of space for independent and private study, including a library exclusively for Sixth Form use – a firm favourite with Sixth Form pupils. Another exclusive area for Sixth Form pupils is the Sixth Form Common Room, a space where you can relax. The Common Room bistro, Café Six, is open all day, offering nutritious breakfasts and snacks. You can choose to have a café-style lunch here or enjoy a three-course lunch in the main school dining area. You will also embark upon an enrichment programme to extend your knowledge and skills to help you make the most of your time in Sixth Form. Our aim is to ensure that you achieve the highest possible grades at A Level and to prepare you for university and the world beyond school.

Even PE and co-curricular activities will feel different too as you will have the opportunity to take more of a lead, campaigning for and even running some activities yourself. Every opportunity we provide contributes to the development of the leadership and collaborative skills that are so highly prized by universities, and employers, while preparing you more broadly for the future. From September, we are introducing a weekly Wednesday afternoon of sport for Year 11 and Sixth Form to allow more fixtures and opportunities to play against other local schools. In the Sixth Form you will be treated as a young adult, with all the choice, decision making and responsibility that entails, whilst also knowing that our expert teaching and pastoral team are here to support you throughout your two years. We want you to immerse yourself in Sixth Form life, take full advantage of the opportunities open to you and play your part as a member of the community that is Newcastle High

Blazing a trail of your own At NHSG, no-one needs to follow the pack or feel they need to fit a mould. Every girl is unique and has her own special characteristics, and has interests she is passionate about. You may already know what future pathway you want to follow, or you may be among the many who are still figuring it out. Indeed, you may think you know your direction but then end up changing your mind once in Sixth Form. All of this is absolutely how it should be at this stage when there is still so much to learn and explore.

One size doesn’t fit all in life, nor does it at NHSG. We want you to blaze your own trail and be the person you want to be. It is for these reasons we offer such a wide range of opportunities, and at NHSG you will be on a journey of discovery during your Sixth Form years. And it is in an All Girl environment at NHSG Sixth Form where this journey of discovery can take flight. Here, you will be able to challenge yourself to take risks intellectually and practically. You will be able speak up and be heard in and out of the classroom. Your decisions will not be influenced by conscious or unconscious gender bias, and you will be able to take a leading role in your studies and wider sixth form life. Most of all, you will be empowered to be unapologetically confident; to stand up for, and defend, your values and beliefs.

The GDST’s report is based on the responses from a nationally-representative sample of girls from GDST and non-GDST single-sex and co-educational schools. The responses from GDST pupils demonstrate the strengths they draw from the care, passion and expertise to be found in GDST classrooms: their resilience, their desire for leadership and their confidence in speaking out. NHSG/GDST girls are more self-assured, more politically aware, more empowered, better able to pursue their ambitions, and feel unhindered by their gender. NHSG/ GDST girls develop confidence early and feel more positive about their futures than girls of their own age nationally. They are also more willing to embrace more flexible careers, take less traditional routes and are prepared to risk change than girls who go to non-GDST schools. Together, this means that girls-only schools, and in particular GDST schools, are the best at preparing girls for the future.

In fact, a major new survey, The Girls’ Futures Report, from the Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST), confirms just how much NHSG, as a GDST school, can impact on your life now and in the future. 9

The world needs more women leaders! Women continue to be paid less and to take up fewer leadership roles – that needs to change and we will empower you to be part of the solution.

We believe leadership skills are critical, and we will encourage you to take a lead in some aspects of your Sixth Form life. This might involve taking the lead on a project in the classroom, getting involved in supporting younger pupils in school, running a club or presenting an assembly. Our Sixth Form Leadership Team, including the Head Girl Team and House Captains, alongside our Sports Captains, play a vital role in being a voice for the pupil community and in running activities. As part of our Enrichment Programme, and working with the London School of Economics (LSE), you can also embark on the GDST Leadership and Enterprise Advanced Diploma, a unique qualification that is designed to allow young women to develop the skills to be future leaders and entrepreneurs.

Alongside this, our ‘See it to be it’ and ‘Trailblazing in ...’assembly programme ensures that you will hear from a range of inspirational women who have carved a successful career in their chosen field, many of whom are alumna of NHSG and once sat where you are sitting now. They will share with you the path they took, talk openly and frankly about the challenges they faced and inspire you with their individual story of leadership success. The girl’s potential is limitless, and we pride ourselves on encouraging the girls to be the very best versions of themselves. We hope that through providing them with academic rigor and varied opportunities, the girls will develop into rounded, enthused learners who not only possess qualities sought after by universities and employers but that they are individuals who can make positive contributions to society.

Our Enrichment Programme Our enrichment programme opens up a world of new experiences and will allow you to engage with people and places and learn something that goes beyond your chosen A Level courses. This programme which runs across the two years of Sixth Form will enrich you as an individual and enhance your understanding of the world around you.

Life 360 Life 360 is an enrichment programme launched in September 2023 to provide Sixth Form girls with a holistic suite of learning activities that will empower them to make the most of the opportunities life brings their way. This is a 4 way carousel covering financial literacy, political understanding, citizenship and social responsibility. You will consider the makeup of the United Kingdom and the impact of Brexit, how the parliamentary system works, including local and general elections, your role within society and how you can make a positive difference locally, nationally and globally. The course also includes a key understanding of the financial systems in the UK and the responsibilities and opportunities they bring, such as pensions, the taxation system, mortgages and investments. Life 360 is part of our future facing approach to education which runs through everything we do, ensuring that we empower you are able to be the very best version of you in every sense – not just in terms of academic success. Mindfulness hour Alongside our Life 360 enrichment programme we also run a creative wellbeing strand where you will have a fortnightly opportunity to start your day with a mindfulness activity such as music, dance or art. This is to encourage relaxation and social connection – an hour of creativity for creativity’s sake enjoyed with friends, free from the demands of assessment and academic deadlines.

Voluntary Service Every girl is encouraged to volunteer in the local community in some way; perhaps by working with children, disabled people or the elderly. Sixth Form girls

are involved in a wide range of volunteering opportunities including working on the Science is my Superpower STEM scheme, leading sporting activities through our in-house sports leadership programme, going to a local primary school to listen to readers, taking a Junior School club or helping out at a local care home. This will enable you to have a wider understanding of the world and the impact of being a good citizen can have on others. Careers, Employability and Your Future (CEF) Programme Through the CEF Programme, you will hear from a variety of speakers on topics relevant to Careers, Employability and your Future. Recent lectures have included transferrable skills from the London School of Economics, choosing courses from Sheffield University and 21st century recruitment from GDST. In addition, we invite NHSG alumnae to School to speak about their career journey and promote potential future opportunities through GDST Rungway. PHSE and Personal Development Personal, Social and Health Education lessons provide you with guidance in a variety of areas such as managing stress, how to stay safe and developing a healthy lifestyle. In addition, you will meet with your Form Tutor every term to discuss your progress and Personal Development Plan. These meetings are designed to support you in reaching your goals. Physical Education “Physical fitness is not only one of the most important keys to a healthy body, it is the basis of dynamic and creative

intellectual activity.” John Fitzgerald Kennedy. With these fitting words in mind, PE is compulsory in Sixth Form. It is our hope that you can find an activity that you enjoy and will therefore continue into adulthood. We offer a range of activities and there is also the opportunity to use our stateof-the-art fitness suite. The programme we offer will reflect the interests of the girls involved. Participation is key to a healthy lifestyle and making sure you enjoy the sessions and therefore want to do more is our ultimate goal. Our planned weekly Wednesday afternoon of sport for Year 11 and Sixth Form will allow more fixtures and opportunities to play against other local schools. We are also re-introducing pre-season training and Saturday fixtures to ensure we are offering an extensive range of opportunities. GDST Leadership, Enterprise Advanced Diploma (LEAD) and Language Ambassadors You will have the option to follow the GDST LEAD and Language Ambassadors programme to enhance and develop your leadership skills. You don’t have to be studying Business or a language at A Level to participate. GDST LEAD is designed to develop the skills you need to be a future leader and entrepreneur and you will be working with students across the GDST to gain a diploma endorsed by the London School of Economics. The Young Language Leader Award aims to teach young people how to lead others through basic language activities by working to develop their communication, organisation and motivational skills. You will be involved in helping with or organising clubs and one-to-one lessons to Senior School girls in Years 7 to 11.

Trips and Visits There are many trips and visits organised for the girls in Sixth Form both in this country and abroad. The following is simply a selection of the brilliant opportunities on offer. Those taking Modern Languages can enjoy travel to France, Germany and Spain where they are encouraged to carry out work placements in the host language. Those taking A Level English have the opportunity to join a weekend study trip, where they immerse themselves in literature. Girls taking Biology benefit from a residential field trip to the Cranedale Centre in Yorkshire and those taking Physics have regular visits to CERN in Switzerland. The Drama and Dance departments offer trips to theatres, museums and exhibitions locally and in London and have previously visited New York. There have been Politics trips to visit the Houses of Parliament in London and also to the USA. The History department provide the opportunity to visit Berlin where they spend time exploring this fascinating history and its rich history. The Sports staff arrange a biennial sports tour. Locations for previous tours have included South Africa, Australia and Sri Lanka. There are also regular ski trips and numerous excursions to Regional and National sporting competitions, where girls may compete against sister GDST schools in a wide range of sports. You will be invited to attend lectures, workshops and other events of interest in order to consolidate and extend your learning as well as to help you to develop a real passion for your chosen subjects.

Preparing for your future. Whatever you want to study, we will prepare you well for the future. Almost all girls go on to university or Art, Dance, Drama and Music Schools. Every year we have a significant number of girls achieving places at Russell Group institutions in a vast range of subject areas. We also have a number of girls who are successful in applying for highly competitive degree apprenticeships.

At NHSG we have a dedicated Head of Careers, Mrs Ridley, who works closely with our teaching team and with you to help you make the right choice of career path and higher education institution. Understanding your options As well as the CEF programme referenced on page 12, we will invite a variety of speakers to School to tell you more about their careers and to offer you advice as you begin to focus on your choices for higher education and beyond. Our Trailblazer in .... series introduces you to successful women, many of them alumnae of NHSG, who will tell you more about their own career path and opportunities. This is further supplemented by our dedicated Careers channel on Teams, which lists a whole host of programmes, webinars, and work experience opportunities from major organisations in the UK and sometimes abroad.

To help you make the right choice, we have a substantial programme of activities and support. If you would like to apply to Oxbridge we provide specific in school support and practise interviews. We also recommend you attend the GDST Oxbridge Conference where GDST take over an Oxbridge College for a weekend and immerse potential applicants in university life, as well as specialist Oxbridge practise interviews. If you would like to pursue Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary Science, we provide specialist support and opportunities to practise interview technique. Whatever route you choose, you will be assigned a personal tutor to help you with your application and Personal Statement and the Director of Sixth Form and Head will meet with you to discuss your application to ensure it is the best that it can be.

Making your university application Not only do you receive superb access to career-based opportunities, you will also receive outstanding support in choosing the right higher education courses for you including opportunities to study abroad. You will provided with an account for Unifrog which describes itself as ‘The universal destinations platform’. This excellent tool, allows you to compare every university course, every apprenticeship, and to make a successful application. 15

The GDST Difference means we offer you more Another of the significant benefits of being part of the Girls’ Day School Trust is the number of special scholarships and awards for which girls can apply. These are unique to the GDST and include: •GDST Travel Scholarships •GDST Creative Writing Prize • Johnston Memorial Scholarship for Law •Minerva Prize for all-round achievement •Pearson & Silver Awards for financial assistance in attending courses or meetings with a classical content •Frederica Lord University Scholarship and Lorna Cocking Scholarship •Laurie Magnus Poetry Prize •Somerville and Gurney Awards Rungway Rungway, our mentoring app, enables you to draw on the help and experience of GDST alumnae to ask any questions you have about future study, career options and life after school. You can sign up to Rungway at www.go.rungway. com/gdst GDST Alumnae Network Even when the Sixth Form years are over, results received and university places accepted, we will continue to help. All girls join the unique GDST Alumnae Network – a powerful and supportive group of over 75,000 women offering a gateway to professional and social coaching, mentoring and networking opportunities. You don’t need to wait to become an alumna to benefit from the network. When you join the Sixth Form at NHSG you automatically become a member of the GDST Alumnae Network and can take full advantage of everything it offers.

Work Experience In addition to the careers support you receive from staff in school, the GDST Alumnae Network can also put you in touch with people in all kinds of jobs, who can tell you about their own experiences and the routes they took to get there. You can also apply for work experience with GDST alumnae who are happy to help. In addition, we have close links with a number of major employers with whom GDST arrange special events. We can provide advice, examples, opinions, opportunities for personal experience – everything you need to help choose the career path that is right for you.

Our Academic Programme Our Academic Programme is designed to allow you to pursue the subjects you love, to develop and acquire new skills and prepare you for university and beyond.

You will: •Study three A Level subjects – see course options on page 20 • Have the option of Further Maths as a fourth A Level choice •Undertake an Extended Project Qualification (the equivalent of an AS Level, which is completed in Year 12). This qualification is greatly prized by universities including Oxbridge and other Russell Group universities. Alternatively, you have the option to take a Gold Arts Award. •Take part in a full enrichment programme. Extended Project Qualification The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) assesses your ability to carry out research and work independently. It enables you to step outside the confines of your A Level courses and work on something in which you are passionately interested. You have 120 hours to complete a project on a topic of your choice. Most girls will be expected to undertake the EPQ. An important aspect of EPQ is the taught element. All girls in Year 12 attend three lessons every fortnight on study skills, incorporating independent learning, research, academic writing and presentation skills. This programme promotes invaluable skills that are highly sought by universities and employers. When you undertake an EPQ, you will then build on these skills to conduct your own research and produce a 5,000 word project. You will be assessed on the project, a presentation given to your peers, teachers and invited guests, and a log that you create to outline the different stages of your research journey. It is important to understand that, although a member of staff will be your 18

supervisor, all work must be your own and the responsibility for keeping on track is yours alone. The EPQ is demanding but rewarding. Recent titles have included: • How has the development of Conventional Medicines affected the use of Complementary and Alternative Medicines in the Western world, specifically the USA and the UK’s NHS? • To evaluate the factors contributing to opioid dependence in the UK. • To what extent have the Conservative government or ageing population in England been responsible for the strain on the National Health Service from 20102023? • Is artificial intelligence a disrupter to our society? Gold Arts Award The Gold Arts Award is a Level 3 qualification in Arts and is the highest recognition of your abilities as a creative arts leader. At Gold level, you are working as an arts practitioner while broadening your horizons within the arts world. Working at this level will extend your creativity, communication, planning, teamwork and leadership skills, and will support your progression through any education, training or career pathway. Unit 1 – Personal Arts Development Unit 2 – Arts Projects Leadership During contact time with your teacher you will plan your work and keep a record by creating your own Arts Award portfolio. You can pick your own style of portfolio – this could be a diary, video, website blog – or something different.

Key staff If you would like to discuss your subject choices you are welcome to contact any of the staff listed below. The table below outlines the subjects we offer at A Level.* Director of Sixth Form

Mrs H Harrison

h.harrison@ncl.gdst.net

Subject

Head of Department

Art: Fine Art; Graphic Communication;

Miss A Goldie

a.goldie@ncl.gdst.net

Biology

Mrs Waton

e.waton@ncl.gdst.net

Business Studies

Mr C Gibb

c.gibb@ncl.gdst.net

Chemistry

Mr C Reed

c.reed@ncl.gdst.net

Classical Civilisation

Mrs N Cameron

n.cameron@ncl.gdst.net

Latin

Mrs N Cameron

n.cameron@ncl.gdst.net

Computer Science

Mr L Willis

l.willis@ncl.gdst,.net

Dance

Mrs D Hylton

d.hylton@ncl.gdst.net

Drama and Theatre

Mrs A Dobson

a.dobson@ncl.gdst.net

Economics

Mr A Gouge

a.gouge@ncl.gdst.net

English Literature

Ms S Emmett

s.emmett@ncl.gdst.net

French

Mr G Bignot

g.bignot@ncl.gdst.net

Geography

Mrs S Mawhinney

s.mawhinney@ncl.gdst.net

German

Mrs Robinson

s.robinson@ncl.gdst.net

History

Mr D Hyde

d.hyde@ncl.gdst.net

Mathematics

Mrs J Tasker

j.tasker@ncl.gdst.net

Further Mathematics

Mrs J Tasker

j.tasker@ncl.gdst.net

Music

Miss K Waters

k.waters@ncl.gdst.net

Physical Education

Mrs A Wilson

a.wilson@ncl.gdst.net

Physics

Mr Morton

a.morton@ncl.gdst.net

Politics

Mr D Hyde

d.hyde@ncl.gdst.net

Psychology

Mrs A Robinson

a.robinson@ncl.gdst.net

Religious Studies

Mrs L Dodd

l.dodd@ncl.gdst.net

Philosophy

Mrs L Dodd

l.dodd@ncl.gdst.net

Spanish

Ms Estevez-Blanca

a.estevez-blanca@ncl.gdst.net

Textile Design

*The final list of subjects offered in Sixth Form may vary depending on demand and other factors.

Art and Design Would you like to embark on an artistic journey of self-discovery in your Sixth Form studies? The Art department provides a space in which creative and artistic imagination can take flight. It is somewhere that nurtures essential skills and expressive possibilities. Examination Board – OCR Art and Design A Levels at NHSG offer you an opportunity to fully develop and explore your chosen specialism(s), such as Fine Art, Graphic Communication and/or Textile Design whilst expanding your knowledge, understanding and skills in a range of specialist areas.

Graphic Communication can also involve creating visual meaning through Art by an expressive or interpretative response to still and moving imagery achieved through lens-based media. The course encourages the use of digital imagery through using software such as Photoshop combined with imagination and flair.

You will develop a deep understanding of your chosen specialism and the ability to critically evaluate your own work and the work of others. You are able to tailor the course to fit your individual needs, choices and aspirations in order to follow your chosen route through to further or higher education or the workplace.

How you will be assessed

All courses lead to an Art and Design qualification. Specialist options are available: Fine Art, Textile Design, Graphic Communication. If you are hoping to enter the Art world you may choose more than one A Level from the options available. What you will study For this A Level, the coursework comes in the form of projects which include research linked to historical and cultural references. The examination is simply another project produced in response to one of many questions offered on an examination paper and carried out over a period of several weeks. Fine Art A Level Fine Art concerns painting, drawing, collage, sculptural pieces and printing. It is a broad course which allows for personal development in all the traditional areas of Art. We have strong traditions in Fine Art. Textile Design A Level This subject involves textile printing with screens and stencils, dyeing, felt making, fashion and accessory design, machine embroidery and decorative techniques. The manipulation of textiles is created mainly for fashion but can also be used for one-off art pieces or as art for interior design. Graphic Communication A Level This course combines two or more of the following: • Designing book jackets, CD covers, posters and brochures, logos and symbols, page layouts and visual communication of information. • Illustration and advertising for a chosen product. • Package Design – aesthetic and functional package design for specific products.

Component One: Personal Investigation (60% of the overall A Level mark) This involves creating the following in the chosen area of study. (i) a portfolio of practical work showing your personal response to either a starting point, brief, scenario or stimulus, devised and provided by you with advice and support from your teacher. (ii) a related study: an extended response of a guided minimum of 1000 words. Personal Investigation - 120 marks Non-examination assessment (internally assessed and externally moderated) Component Two: Externally Set Task (40% of the overall A Level mark) The early release paper will be issued on 1 February by OCR and will provide a number of themes, each with a range of written and visual starting points, briefs and stimuli. A response should be based on one of these options. Externally set task - 80 marks 15 hour examination after a preparation period from February to May Non-examination assessment (internally assessed and externally moderated) What this course can lead to There are many Art and Design based careers. Employers are looking for creative minds to work in all areas of their companies. An A Level in an Art and Design will give you the skills that are prized by today’s employers. The options for someone with a creative mind are abundant and varied. They could include Fashion Design, Teaching, Product Design, Editorial work, Museum and Gallery work, Architecture, Textile Design, Graphic Design, Filmmaking, Photography, Gaming, Media work, Set Design, App and Web Design, Interior Design, Furniture Design... the list goes on.

Biology Biology is the ‘science of life’ and as such will give you a broad appreciation of the world of living organisms. Pick up a newspaper or listen to the news on television and Biology will never be far from the headlines; from the outbreak of pandemics to the clearing of the rainforests, questions are being asked of biologists every day. Examination Board – AQA As well as diverse and interesting subject knowledge, the course encourages an understanding of current issues related to Biology, how scientists work and how they investigate scientific problems and use the evidence they collect to draw conclusions. You will be encouraged to question the reliability of results and the validity of conclusions. Scientific advances have greatly improved the quality of life for many people. You will look at some of these advances and the impact they have had. The course will also enable you to develop your own research and investigative skills. It is a practical science in which you will carry out experimental work, investigating ideas and theories. What you will study The Year 12 course covers the human digestive system, the heart and the gas exchange system and shows how an understanding of the way they work allows us to appreciate how disease affects our bodies. You will also be introduced to topics such as biological molecules, enzymes, cell structure and how substances get into and out of cells. Biodiversity, variation and its causes are also covered. It considers the range of living organisms, some of the ways they are similar to each other and how they differ. It also looks at the enormous impact humans have on biodiversity. The topic of ecology forms an important theme in the second year of the A Level course. You will be studying the features of communities and ecosystems in order to understand how the sustainability of resources depends on managing the conflict between human need and conservation. Field work techniques will be taught during a compulsory three day residential course at Cranedale Field Study Centre in Yorkshire. You will look at some of the ways in which animals are able to detect stimuli and respond to them. This will allow you to realise that in this way they increase the probability of their survival by moving away from harmful environments and maintaining optimal internal conditions for their metabolism. You will also become aware of the way in which DNA controls the metabolic activities of cells and some of the medical and technological applications that have resulted from this knowledge. Year 12 • Biological molecules • Cells

• Organisms exchange substances with their environment • Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms Year 13 • Energy transfers in and between organisms • Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments • Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems • The control of gene expression How you will be assessed You will sit all examinations at the end of Year 13. There are three 2 hour written examinations: Paper 1 and Paper 2 are each worth 35% of the A Level qualification Paper 3 is worth 30% of the A Level qualification and includes a 25 mark essay from a choice of two titles Practical Assessment Practical assessments have been divided into those that can be assessed in written examinations and those that can only be directly assessed whilst you are carrying out experiments. A Level grades will be based only on marks from written examinations. A separate endorsement of practical skills will be taken alongside the A Level. This will be assessed by teachers and will be based on direct observation of your competency in a range of skills. What this course can lead to Many A Level pupils go on to study Biology related subjects at university, others follow careers in other fields. Biology complements artistic, technological and other scientific outlooks, and can lead to a variety of careers including: Accountancy, Biomedical Sciences, Dentistry, Environmental Sciences, Law, Molecular Biology, Medicine, Nutrition, Nursing, Optometry, Pharmacy, Physiotherapy, Psychology, Teaching and Veterinary Science amongst many others. Biology is a requirement for studying Medicine and Dentistry in many universities.

Business Business Studies is a subject which is constantly developing. Today’s news is tomorrow’s Business Studies question. The subject deals with the various functions of a business such as Marketing, Accounting and Finance, Operations Management and Human Resources. It also looks at the effect of outside bodies, such as the government, on businesses, as well as studying the objectives and strategies which businesses adopt. If you have an interest in running your own company one day or going on to study business-related courses at university such as Management, Accounting or Marketing, then Business Studies A Level is the subject for you. Examination Board – AQA Business Studies is a new subject to most girls when they enter the Sixth Form at Newcastle High School for Girls. For girls taking this subject we would prefer them to have achieved a Grade 6 or above in GCSE Mathematics and English. This is because the course will require you to handle and interpret data and calculate financial ratios.

We will also investigate the causes and effects of change and develop business analysis skills including financial and non-financial measures of performance. How you will be assessed You will be assessed at the end of Year 13 through three 2 hour examinations.

What you will study Year 12 In Year 12, we focus on the market in which businesses operate and external influences on them. You also learn about the different functional areas of a business including Marketing, Accounting and Finance, Human Resources and Operations Management. From the outset you will be building on your skills in using and interpreting quantitative data. You will also be encouraged to put theory into practice by setting up your own start-up business. Year 13 In Year 13, we continue to study the functional areas of a business but with a greater focus on achieving business objectives and strategy. You will explore strategic decisionmaking such as the influences of Corporate Social Responsibility, difficulties in forecasting trends and the importance of assessing feasibility and risk when making decisions.

What this course can lead to Sound business skills are actively sought by employers in all sectors. Your A Level will give you a good understanding of the challenges facing businesses, and an insight into the different functional departments within a business. Should you wish to study further, there are numerous Business Studies courses offered at universities, many combining Business Studies with other subjects such as Languages. You could of course always use your newly acquired skills to set up your own business! You do not have to take Business Studies at A Level to study the subject at university. However, it would be useful for any Business related degree including Accounting and Finance, Management, Marketing, Human Resources and Public Relations.

Chemistry Chemistry is an exciting and interesting subject which combines intellectual challenge with investigative skills and practical work. It is a key science needed for a variety of professions from Medicine to Engineering. Examination Board – AQA

What you will study Chemistry is a wide ranging subject which includes a study of the manufacture of essential materials such as medicines, plastics, metals and fuels. You will also study the processes which take place in living things and conservation of the environment. The A Level course gives a fascinating insight into the reasons for the diverse nature and behaviour of our surroundings. It aims to provide a satisfying educational experience whether or not you intend to study Science beyond this level, to enable you to show an informed interest in scientific matters and to develop an understanding of scientific method. Chemistry is essentially an experimental subject and therefore the course includes a wide range of practical work integrated into the lessons. You gain experience in a range of techniques which allows you to develop your ability to question, investigate and evaluate evidence. These practical skills are assessed internally during the course. If you wish to follow a career in Chemistry, you can learn more through our links with Sunderland University and other work experience programmes. You are also encouraged to attend both internal and external lectures. During the course the following units are studied: Year 12 • Physical chemistry – including atomic structure, amount of substance, bonding, energetics, kinetics, chemical equilibria and Le Chatelier’s principle. • Inorganic chemistry – including periodicity, Group 2 the alkaline earth metals, Group 7 (17) the halogens. • Organic chemistry – including an introduction to organic chemistry, alkanes, halogenoalkanes, alkenes, alcohols, organic analysis.

Year 13 • Physical chemistry – including thermodynamics, rate equations, and equilibrium constant for homogeneous systems, electrode potentials and electrochemical cells. • Inorganic chemistry – including properties of Period 3 elements and their oxides, transition metals, reactions of ions in aqueous solution. • Organic chemistry – including optical isomerism, aldehydes and ketones, carboxylic acids and derivatives, aromatic chemistry, amines, polymers, amino acids, proteins and DNA, organic syntheses, NMR spectroscopy, chromatography. How you will be assessed At the end of the course there are three 2 hour examinations. Throughout the two year course your practical skills are assessed. What this course can lead to After success in the A Level examination, girls have pursued courses in: • Accounting • Agriculture • Architecture • Biochemistry • Business Studies • Chemistry • Dentistry • Ecology • Engineering • Food Technology • Geology • Human Nutrition • Law • Marine Biology • Materials Science • Medicine • Natural Sciences • Pharmacy • Physics • Psychology • Teaching • Veterinary Science

Classics The past permeates the present and no peoples have had a greater influence on European culture than the Greeks and Romans. Our language is rich in their vocabulary and our arts and sciences owe much to their lasting achievements.

Examination Board – Latin OCR

Our approach to Classics is varied: you can study the language in A Level Latin, and their culture, both visually and through their words in translation, in A Level Classical Civilisation. Latin What you will study Much of the A Level course is devoted to the detailed study of literary texts, through which you are encouraged to develop your linguistic knowledge, personal response and the skill of critical analysis. The rest of the course contains a variety of language work, which is examined by translation and comprehension. Latin has had a vast influence on English, yet is so significantly different from English that its translation and comprehension will really develop your skills of analysis and expression. Latin literature will provide both intellectual excitement and a moving experience. How you will be assessed For A Level Latin there are four written examinations: Unseen translation 1 hour 45 minutes – 33% of overall result Prose composition or comprehension 1 hour 15 minutes – 17% of overall result Prose literature 2 hours – 25% of overall result Verse literature 2 hours – 25% of overall result Classical Civilisation What you will study • The World of the Hero: a study of the Odyssey and the Aeneid in translation • Greek Theatre • Greek Religion 24

How you will be assessed These topics will be examined in three written papers at the end of the two year A Level course. What these courses can lead to The study of Classics is highly valued both in educational and business circles. Degrees in Classics, Latin and Classical Studies are a popular choice and boast one of the highest rates of graduate employment. In a recent survey an employer in a bank summed up the general attitude, ”Classics seems to train minds that can be used here.” Our own former pupils have found employment in such careers as Commerce, Banking, Law, Teaching, Museum Work, Nursing and Accountancy. Former pupils with one or two Classical subjects at A Level have gained places to study: • Classics • English • Sciences • Politics • Law • Archaeology • Theology • Ancient History • Oriental Languages • Modern Languages • Philosophy • Psychology • Geography • Medicine

Computer Science Computer Science is a practical subject where pupils can apply the academic principles learned in the classroom to real-world systems. It’s an intensely creative subject that combines invention and excitement, and can look at the natural world through a digital prism.

Examination Board – OCR

The aims of A Level Computer Science are to enable pupils to develop: • an understanding of and ability to apply the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science including; abstraction, decomposition, logic, algorithms and data representation • the ability to analyse problems in computational terms through practical experience of solving such problems including writing programs to do so • the capacity for thinking creatively, innovatively, analytically, logically and critically • the capacity to see relationships between different aspects of computer science • mathematical skills • the ability to articulate the individual (moral), social (ethical), legal and cultural opportunities and risks of digital technology.

How you will be assessed Paper 1 - Computer systems (40%) 2 hours 30 minutes Paper 2 - Algorithms and programming (40%) 2 hours 30 minutes Non-exam assessment - Programming project (20%)

What you will study • The characteristics of contemporary processors, input, output and storage devices • Software and software development • Exchanging data • Data types, data structures and algorithms • Legal, moral, cultural and ethical issues • Elements of computational thinking • Problem solving and programming • Algorithms to solve problems and standard algorithms

Dance A Level Dance is a dynamic qualification which encourages you to develop your creative and intellectual capacity alongside transferable skills such as team working, communication and problem solving. All of these are sought after skills by higher education institutions and employers and will help you stand out in the workplace whatever your choice of career. Examination Board – AQA This specification reflects both historical and current dance practices, making it relevant, and inspires a lifelong passion and appreciation for dance. What you will study The A Level Dance specification aims to cultivate creativity by allowing individual enquiry within the areas of performance, choreography and critical engagement with professional repertoire through both practical and written responses. Component One: Performance and choreography (50%) • Solo performance linked to a specific practitioner within an area of study from Component Two. • Solo performance or performance in a quartet (in any style within the defined genres of Ballet, Jazz or Modern Dance). • Group choreography from one of four starting points set by AQA. You will also complete a programme note to support your practical assessment. Component Two: Critical engagement (50%) You will study two professional dance works and their corresponding areas of study. The set works will allow you to complete in-depth analysis of the choreography and production of the work to understand why choreographers make certain creative choices to communicate their intention effectively. Areas of study provide you with the opportunity to investigate the key changes in the development of dance linked to a genre and allow you to demonstrate your contextual understanding.

How you will be assessed Component One: 50% of the A Level Assessed by a practical performance which is recorded and shared with an external assessor from AQA.

The examination normally takes place between March and May of Year 13. Component Two: 50% of the A Level One written examination lasting 2 hours 30 minutes. The paper will comprise both short answer questions and three essay questions to assess knowledge, understanding and critical appreciation of two set works and their corresponding areas of study. What this course can lead to An A Level in Dance is an excellent qualification for anyone considering a career in the creative or performing arts. This can lead to further undergraduate study of dance at university or at a Dance Conservatoire. Recent leavers went on to study at the Northern School of Contemporary Dance (NSCD) in Leeds and Shockout in Manchester. Former pupils have also gone on to study at London Studio Centre, Urdang Academy, Wilks Performing Arts Academy and Leeds Conservatoire, which are some of the finest professional training institutes in the country. A number of previous A Level pupils have successfully completed undergraduate degrees in the performing arts at institutions such as Arts Educational School, Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts and the University of Surrey. Dance develops many key transferable skills which can be utilised in a range of subjects at undergraduate level. Previous pupils of A Level Dance have also gone on to study subjects such as Psychology, Law and Medicine. As the course is delivered by Gateway Studio, Students have been involved in professional projects, performances and work placements at Professional dance organisations and Companies.

Drama and Theatre

This practical, intellectual and artistic subject is designed for girls who enjoy performing in, reading and watching plays. Through various visits (usually including a three day trip to London) you will be shown the amazing diversity in Theatre and will learn to analyse, interpret and create imaginative and compelling performances, whilst becoming a more competent Theatre practitioner. Examination Board – Edexcel

What you will study Whilst this A Level is rigorously academic, the teaching is largely practical and offers a unique approach to learning. It is an active and creative course which aims to nurture your enthusiasm for and interest in Theatre, as an audience member and as a performer, designer and director.

Component Two: Text in Performance (20%) You will take part in a group performance as an actor or designer in one key extract from a performance text. You will also perform a monologue/duologue or create a design realisation from one key extract from a different performance text.

In practical work, the process of creating a performance encourages you to use negotiation, debate and research skills. This multi-disciplinary approach to study will equip you with a range of transferable skills in articulating thoughts, exploring ideas, sharpening communication skills and providing you with the ability to work within a group situation both in a practical and academic setting and will also encourage you to think independently. The confidence gained through Drama and Theatre will enable you to build your confidence and encourage you to use your leadership skills.

This is externally marked by a visiting examiner.

It is important that you are interested in gaining a greater understanding of how theatre and plays work, and that you are keen to be involved with performances. How you will be assessed The Edexcel Advanced GCE in Drama and Theatre consists of two coursework components and one externally examined paper. Component One: Devising (40%) You will devise an original performance piece using one key extract from a performance text and a theatre practitioner as stimuli. You are able to approach this piece as a performer or designer. Internally assessed and externally moderated, there are two parts to the assessment: 1) A portfolio (60 marks) This can be handwritten/typed evidence between 25003000 words or recorded/verbal evidence between 12-14minutes or can be a combination of handwritten/typed evidence (between 1250-1500 words) and recorded/verbal evidence (between 6-7minutes). 2) The devised performance/design realisation (20 marks)

Component Three: Theatre makers in Practice (40%) Written examination The examination is 2 hours 30 mins The examination will be made up of three sections: Section A: A choice of one of two statements requiring you to evaluate a live theatre performance. Section B: You will practically explore a set text in order to be able to answer two extended response questions on an extract from it (you will be provided with the extract in the examination). Section C: You will interpret a second performance text for a contemporary audience. What this course can lead to An A Level in Drama and Theatre provides the perfect foundations for a Drama degree or Drama school training; however, the skills developed through this course are relevant to many different academic courses at top universities and other professional areas. You can progress from this qualification to: • Drama schools and university courses that relate directly to Drama and Theatre. • University courses that will benefit from the skills developed by this course, for example; Law, Human Resources, People Management, Media, Events Management, Creative Arts. • Professions where people skills are essential, for example Management, Medicine, industry and business environments. • Professions where time management, confidence, the ability to work collaboratively and to meet deadlines are desirable.

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Economics Economics is one of the most relevant and interesting courses on offer to girls at A Level. Economics determine our pay, the jobs we do, the industries we work in, how we travel, where we live, the goods we buy, where we buy them and the price we pay! Examination Board – AQA

To have an understanding of this subject is an essential life skill. Economics is all about the world in which we live and how it impacts on everyday life. It offers us an alternative way of looking at and thinking about our world by developing theories and concepts that can be applied to the day to day problems we encounter. It exists because of the central economic problem – we have limited needs (food, water, warmth, clothing, shelter) but unlimited wants. Given that there is a finite quantity of resources available to combine into output, choices have to be made. These choices can be summed up as what to produce, how to produce it and who to produce it for.

Year 13 In Year 13, the focus moves to the national and international economy and you will use economic models to develop a critical understanding of macroeconomics. You will be able to explain economic policy objectives and indicators of performance, as well as building on your quantitative skills including calculating ratios and percentages and interpreting indices.

Economics is a new subject to girls when they enter the Sixth Form at Newcastle High School for Girls and the only requirement is that girls have achieved a minimum of Grade 6 in Mathematics at GCSE and a Grade 6 or above in English GCSE is preferred. This is because the course will draw on and develop skills of logical argument in both handling of information about the economy, in the form of tables and graphs, and in understanding and explaining the theories underlying economic relationships.

What this course can lead to Economics is a respected social science which opens the door to a vast range of university courses and careers. Common career destinations for Economics graduates include Commercial, Industrial and Public Sector Management and Finance Professionals, such as Investment Advisers.

What you will study Year 12 You will focus your study on economic choices and markets. The emphasis is on the market model of resource allocation with you gaining an understanding of the economic behaviour of consumers, producers and governments in competitive and non-competitive markets. You will understand how resources are allocated, market structures and how a price is determined, and market failure and government intervention.

How you will be assessed You will be assessed at the end of Year 13 through three 2 hour examinations.

Whilst not all Economics degree courses require A Level, it will provide a greater choice of institutions. Anyone doing a course linked to a career mentioned above would benefit from the course but it also complements many science courses including Engineering and Medicine. It should be noted that some, although not all, undergraduate courses require A Level Mathematics.

English Literature “A word after a word after a word is power.” Margaret Atwood

Examination Board – OCR A passion for reading is the most important requirement for the study of English Literature. More than that, though, you will need to enjoy reading what critics have said about the texts that we study and you will have to read about the context in which they were produced. Discussion and debate form the backbone of most lessons in English Literature, so you have to be prepared to voice your opinions and have confidence in your own ideas.

As a guide, these are the texts that we are studying in Year 12 this year.:

Essays will form the bulk of your written work: through them, you will sharpen your powers of comprehension, interpretation, argument and communication.

What this course can lead to

What you will study and how you will be assessed “Some books should be tasted, some devoured, but only a few should be chewed and digested thoroughly.” Francis Bacon You will study a range of classic and modern writing and prepare for an unseen element in the examination. You study poetry, drama and prose and the texts will include a play by Shakespeare. You will also receive a wider reading list and will be expected to read at least some of the selection of books on it. The A Level course is 20% coursework and involves some comparison of texts and some close study of the language that writers use. You will be able to choose the area of study on which you would like to focus. There is also a close study of a theme, such as ‘American Dream’ or ‘Gothic’, which will allow you to pursue some of your own areas of interest.

•Hamlet – Shakespeare • The Bloody Chamber – Angela Carter • Dracula – Bram Stoker • A Doll’s House – Ibsen • Maud – Tennyson

“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you know, the more places you’ll go.” Dr Seuss English Literature makes a great combination with History and Classics. There are obvious connections with Drama, but also with the other creative arts. Some girls who are taking sciences, maybe with the intention to go on to study Medicine, take English Literature as part of their development of another aspect of their understanding of the world around them. People who take English Literature go on to study all sorts of degrees at university: it is accepted by the most academic institutions and the essay-based nature of the assessment makes it an ideal starting point for courses such as Law. English A Levels are always useful for Journalism courses, too.

Geography By studying Geography you will learn from the real world, about the real world. You will learn that Geography is a science that seeks to describe, explain and evaluate the character of places and the distribution of people, features and events as they develop on different scales over the surface of the earth. Examination Board – Cambridge International You will learn that we need to understand the geographical influences and relationships which link people and their surroundings and the importance of safeguarding the environment. You will appreciate that as international links become closer, easier and faster, we need more than ever to understand the geography of the world. You will understand and appreciate that the cultures and backgrounds of people from all over the world help us make the most of our multicultural society.

Advanced Physical Geography options Here the content includes the study of two of the following: • Tropical environments • Coastal environments • Hazardous environments • Hot arid and semi-arid environments

The subject draws on factual knowledge from both the Pure Sciences and the Arts, and aims to develop the analytical powers of the scientist and the descriptive and interpretative skills of the humanities. It has the great advantage of combining successfully with virtually every A Level subject and can act as a useful link between the Arts and Sciences.

Advanced Human Geography options Here the content includes the study of two of the following: • Production, location and change • Environmental management • Global independence • Economic transition

What you will study and how you will be assessed Cambridge International A Level Geography will help you develop the knowledge and skills that will prepare you for successful university study. Core Physical Geography Here the content includes the study of: • Hydrology and fluvial geomorphology • Atmosphere and weather • Rocks and weathering

Assessment – 1 hour 30 minute written examination (25% of total A Level) What this course can lead to Geography continues to be a subject highly regarded by universities. According to research from the Geographical Association, Geography has been defined among the key ‘facilitating’ or ‘hard’ subjects in a guide compiled by the Russell Group and has been identified as one of ten recession-proof degree subjects. Why do employers prefer Geographers?

Assessment – 1 hour 30 minute written examination (25% of total A Level)

1. Geographers can deal with data and people

Core Human Geography Here the content includes the study of: • Population • Migration • Settlement dynamics

3. Geographers can keep pace with change - they have the level of rigour, knowledge, conceptual thinking and intellectual curiosity required in the labour market.

Assessment – 1 hour 30 minute written examination (25% of total A Level)

2. Geographers have critical analysis and writing skills

History The study of History in the Sixth Form offers you the opportunity to develop your skills of analysis and exposition. Since Sixth Form History involves the evaluation of evidence, the construction of convincing arguments and a high degree of literacy, it makes an ideal prelude to many courses or careers including Law, Journalism and the Civil Service, quite apart from the more directly related areas such as teaching or museum and archive work. Examination Board – AQA Girls who study A Level History are expected to contribute to class discussion and read widely around the subject. What you will study Component One Tsarist and Communist Russia 1855-1964 Over the two years, you will examine the decline of Tsarism in Russia and the 1917 revolutions. You will move on to study the attempts to establish a Communist state under the leaderships of Lenin, Stalin and Khrushchev. This breadth study allows you to explore the overarching themes of political, economic and social change that saw the country experience a turbulent century of revolution, war and the establishment of a totalitarian superpower. Component Two The English Revolution 1625-1660 Over the two years, you will examine the causes and key events of the English Civil War. You will move on to study the rise and fall of the Protector leading to the restoration of the monarchy under Charles II. This depth study will allow you to study in great detail the short term causes of the English revolution and the effect of the Civil War on the social and political order of England. In the second year of study the focus will be on the failure of the Protectorate to establish a long term Republic in England and look to explain the return to constitutional monarchy under Charles II. Component Three This is a coursework module. You will undertake a historical enquiry (extended essay) on the subject of British and Irish relations between 1886-1998.

This is a 4,500 word historical enquiry which must be completed by Easter in Year 13. In preparation for this study, you will examine British Government policy and Irish Republicanism across the period. From the Easter Rising and Irish War of Independence to the Troubles and the Peace Process, pupils will assess the causes of political instability, campaigns of violence and the eventual end of the conflict. In this part of the course you must research independently and use all the historical skills you have developed in order to assess the significance of key events and to show an awareness of different historical interpretations. This module is superb preparation for the study of ‘essaybased’ subjects at university. How you will be assessed Components One and Two are examined separately at the end of Year 13 and are together worth 80% of the final grade. Component Three will be completed by the end of the Spring Term of the second year of study and is worth 20% of the final grade. What this course can lead to This course will give you a chance to develop your awareness of political, economic and cultural issues and provides an ideal background if you wish to study History, Politics, Economics or Social Sciences at university. In recent years a large number of our A Level Historians have gone on to read History at university. In Year 13 there are extra lessons available to prepare girls for university entrance, including entrance to Cambridge and Oxford.

Mathematics and Further Mathematics Can you predict where an arrow will fall from a bow? Plot the path of a snooker ball on a table? Maximise the area of a field with a given length of fence? Predict the outcome of the toss of a coin? Find the meaning of the square root of -1? Find the equation of the spiral shape on a shell? Mathematics puts logical thought and reason into situations which appear too complex to grasp – it is both an art and a science. It answers questions but can be appreciated simply for the elegance of its solutions.

Examination Board – Edexcel What you will study The new linear Mathematics and Further Mathematics courses offer a study in Pure Mathematics, Mathematics Mechanics and Statistics. These are the skills, knowledge and applications sought by universities and employers. They are challenging, but rewarding, courses which will equip you to continue with a study of Mathematics in the future whilst also supporting a wide range of other subject areas. Pure Mathematics builds on many of the areas covered at GCSE. You will develop your understanding of trigonometry beyond simple triangles, use algebra in more complex ways and combine methods involving angles and straight lines to solve challenging problems. You will also be introduced to new concepts such as logarithms, matrices and complex numbers. (Remember being told you cannot have the square root of a negative number? Well you can!). All of these ideas will be used in real life situations. Mechanics uses Mathematics to describe the motion of objects and how they respond to forces acting on them from cars and lorries on roads to satellites orbiting around a planet. It includes topics such as energy and collisions. Mechanics links particularly well with A Level Physics and is relevant to university courses in Mathematics, Physics, Engineering and Architecture.

A particular disease occurs in only one in 10,000 people. There is a screening test which gives an accurate result in 99% of cases. How reasonable is it to tell a patient whose test comes back positive that they have this disease? How you will be assessed Both courses are assessed at the end of Year 13 by a series of written examinations. There is no coursework. You can only take Further Mathematics if you have already chosen to study Mathematics. What this course can lead to When you have successfully completed your course, many options for Mathematics related studies are open to you. These include: • Accountancy • Architecture • Business Studies • Computing • Economics • Engineering • Law • Management • Mathematics • Medicine • Physics • Pure Science • Surveying

An understanding of Statistics and its uses and limitations is an important skill. On this course you will meet the ideas of randomness and variability, and the way in which these link to probability theory. You will also learn the most common statistical techniques for evaluating data, drawing reliable conclusions and making predictions in situations where uncertainty is built in, for example: 32

Modern Foreign Languages We offer A Level courses in French, German and Spanish. The ability to use one or more foreign languages at a more advanced level than GCSE gives young people a considerable advantage over their monolingual peers. Examination Board – AQA

What you will study The Modern Languages A Level specification is designed to develop further the skills required for GCSE – Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing and Translation.

A Level Modern Foreign Languages offer you opportunities to: • Develop and build on the skills acquired at GCSE • Facilitate foreign travel

In addition to the basic skills you will begin a more detailed study of the culture and way of life of the country concerned and if you are particularly interested in any aspect you will be encouraged to pursue it in Year 13, through the study of a specific piece of literature, a specific film, and more widely through the broader study of the cinema, theatre, literature, politics and current issues of the countries whose language you are studying.

• Gain an insight into another culture and society

The whole course emphasises a practical, communicative approach to language learning and provides access to a wide range of up-to-the-minute technological aids that will help you to speak, write, read and listen to the language with confidence.

3 Grammar

We use established resources which include a well-stocked library of recent publications, fully equipped teaching rooms, and an online multi-skill resource, accessible from School and home via Teams, as well as other ICT facilities. The extensive use of ICT facilitates independent learning, helping to meet the individual learning styles of our pupils. The spoken language plays a major role in the course, because the ability to communicate orally is the key skill. You will have regular opportunities to communicate with your teacher, where the specific strategies and skills required for the oral examinations are developed, i.e. stimulus cards, improvisation and debate on topical and cultural issues. You will be encouraged to visit the country at least once during the two years of A Level study and an extended stay in the summer at the end of Year 12 is recommended, either on an exchange or a work placement, which we are able to facilitate. Even with the provision of so many resources in School, nothing can compete with ‘total immersion’ in the country.

• Build a sound basis for further study • Enhance your education and employment prospects beyond the UK The syllabus is made up of four modules: 1 Social issues and trends 2 Political and artistic culture 4 Classic and Contemporary Literature and Film How you will be assessed The A Level course assesses the four key communication skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing. This is assessed in three papers: Paper 1 - Listening, Reading and Writing with grammar questions. Paper 2 - Writing - Two written responses on one film and one literary text or two literary texts. Paper 3 - Speaking - One presentation on an extended research project on a film or literary text. • One conversation based on a subtheme: • Current trends and other aspects of the society • Current affairs issues • Artistic culture • Aspects of political life

Music Music is a huge part of all of our lives. We listen to it every day, go to see concerts, and are moved by film soundtracks. But do we know why? Music A Level will not only reveal how music taps into our emotions, but will also give you the skills to create your own.

Examination Board – Eduqas Studying Music at NHSG means:

Unit 2 – Composition

• Making use of the excellent facilities, with state-of-the-art sound system, lighting, ICT suites, and soundproofed practice rooms – the best in the region.

This will be either 25% or 35% of the course, depending on your choice. You will work on composition skills throughout the two year course, culminating in the creation of two or three compositions in different styles. You will study harmony as well as a way of cementing a coherent skill set in composition.

• Taking advantage of a plethora of performance opportunities including at Sage Gateshead, Northern Stage, and a variety of other top concert venues, as well as intimate performances in School with some of the best classical, folk and pop musicians around.

At NHSG you will study the Eduqas A Level Music syllabus. This course has a high degree of flexibility. You must complete the appraising section, but you can choose to specialise in either composition or performance depending on your strengths – a choice that will be made at the end of Year 12.

There are three areas of study. The first is the history of the symphony from 1750 – 1900. You will look at how this great form came into being, and study the great symphonic composers with our set work being Haydn’s Symphony 104 – ‘London’. The second area of study is Musical Theatre, which will take in all of the great musicals and musical composers of the second half of the 20th century to today. Thirdly, we will look at 20th century music such as Debussy, Satie and Schoenberg. You will sit a two hour exam at the end of Year 13, worth 40% of your overall grade.

Depending on this choice, the structure is:

What this course can lead to

Unit 1 – Performing

Music is a highly regarded academic subject, with a high level of creativity. It is highly regarded by universities for entrance into a wide range of courses. Former pupils have gone on to study Law, Fine Art, Medicine, English, and of course, Music – in a variety of forms.

• A department geared to getting the best grade possible, and affording every opportunity possible to each girl. What you will study and how you will be assessed

This will be either 25% or 35% of the course, depending on your choice. At the end of two years, there is a marked performance with a visiting examiner on your chosen instrument. The expected standard at this stage will be Grade 8. Throughout the two years there will be plenty of performance opportunities and chances to refine and hone your skills.

Unit 3 – Appraising

Philosophy “Philosophy” literally means “love of wisdom”. The grand aim of Philosophy might be said to be “to uncover the secrets of the universe”: the pursuit of truth, goodness and beauty. But, essentially, Philosophy is about asking questions. The philosophical process is one of enquiry; of developing your understanding by questioning the foundations of your beliefs and of trying to reason things through to their logical conclusion. To quote Aristotle: “Wisdom begins in wonder.” Examination Board – AQA Examples of profound questions requiring fundamental enquiry are: • What is reality? • Do our senses deceive us? • Can we know anything for certain? • What is the good life?

• Reason as a source of knowledge • The limits of knowledge Moral Philosophy • Normative Ethical Theories (Utilitarian, Kantian Ethics, Virtue Theory)

• Do you know when you are happy?

• Applied Ethics (around simulated killing, eating animals, telling lies)

• Is morality a matter of opinion?

• Meta-Ethics

• Is beauty subjective?

Year 13

Philosophy is not for everyone. It is not for people who have no interest in asking deeper, sometimes unanswerable, questions. At the end of a lifetime of philosophising, Socrates observed that “the unexamined life is not worth living”. Many people would disagree. Some people do not even care to raise the question. Philosophy, very simply, is not for them. It is not for followers. It is for people who want to understand; who want not just to live, but to live well. It is for people who simply could never be happy without asking why.

Metaphysics of God

Girls find the work that we do in the Sixth Form challenging and interesting. The course is popular and rewarding, with growing numbers choosing to study the subject at university. To quote a former pupil:

• Mind-brain type identity theory

“I enjoy Philosophy because it’s different from all my other lessons. Lessons give you the opportunity to discuss areas of learning in a more challenging way, as opposed to having material dictated to you and it is the only subject which allows you the opportunity to openly challenge ideas. In addition, it links with almost every other subject, whether Sciences, Humanities, Languages or Arts.”

This material will be examined by two 3 hour examinations at the end of Year 13.

What you will study This is Philosophy as a distinct subject and activity. You will study a range of philosophical ideas through an examination of key texts and discussion. You will also have the chance to display critical analysis and construct logical arguments. Year 12 Epistemology • What is knowledge? • Perception as a source of knowledge

• Concept and nature of God • Arguments relating to the existence of God • Religious language Metaphysics of Mind • What do we mean by mind? • Dualism • Physicalism • Eliminative materialism • Functionalism How you will be assessed

What this course can lead to In recent years, many have been proclaiming the rediscovery of the Philosophy graduate. Major employers of university graduates are finding that Philosophy pupils have finely honed analytical skills and problem solving abilities that make them extremely effective in a variety of professional careers. It is not surprising, then, that employers in Law, Business, Journalism, Politics, Media, Management, Public Administration, Medicine and Education (among others) are all attracted to Philosophy pupils as they have an increasing need for candidates who are less narrowly trained, who are able to look at issues from a variety of viewpoints, and who have the ability to think questions through on the basis of sound reasoning and solid evidence. 35

Physical Education Physical Education is a course you may never have considered, but just take a moment to see what exciting course content awaits if you choose to study PE as an academic qualification.

Examination Board – OCR

Physical Education provides an insight into sport beyond the act of performance. The course gives a stimulating and varied theoretical investigation into all aspects of sport and health through an understanding of how our bodies and minds work. It considers the impact of historical and contemporary political decision making on the sporting success of our nation and beyond. What you will study Skills The field of study is wide and offers the opportunity to demonstrate skills in essay writing and quantative data analysis using knowledge from a variety of fields. In addition, the verbal coursework provides great preparation for delivering presentations and interviews.

2 Psychological Factors How personality impacts an our ability to give high level performance and take on leadership roles; personal traits such as confidence and ability to manage stress in relation to performance. 3 Sociological Factors The emergence and evolution of sport in our society; economic and political impact of sport in society through study of the Olympic Games and major sporting events such as FIFA World Cup; drugs in sport; commercialisation and media impact; the impact of modern technology on sports performance. How you will be assessed There are three written examinations at the end of Year 13.

Knowledge

• Physiological factors – 2 hours

Study includes three main theoretical strands:

• Psychological factors – 1 hour

1 Physiological Factors

• Sociocultural issues – 1 hour

How the muscular, respiratory and cardiovascular systems both function and supply energy for sports performance; the impact of exercise, training, diet and nutrition on performance and health; the physiological impact of injury and recovery from injury; the impact of force and how to optimise technique through application of biomechanical principles; how we learn and how that affects training and performance.

What this course can lead to This is a subject totally in keeping with our modern lifestyle and the debate about the commercialisation of sport in our society. It provides the theoretical knowledge and skills base for a range of careers in this ever growing employment sector. The traditional male dominance is being eroded and doors are being opened by women not only as professional sports players and coaches, but also as managers, agents, physiotherapists, doctors, psychologists, engineers, dieticians, journalists and lawyers.

Physics ‘Physics’ derives its name from the Greek word for Nature. It is the study of matter, energy and their interactions, the study of which takes us away from the world of celebrity and veneer to the furthest flung reaches of the Universe to try to understand how everything works and how it all fits together.

Examination Board – OCR

Physics does not just look at the grand in scale; it gazes at the very small particles that constitute matter itself - the very building blocks of everything we see around us. Physics is a challenging subject that brings together observational science and mathematical theory. What you will study The A Level course is designed to provide a balanced and coherent study of Physics in which you are given the opportunity to explore certain areas of the subject in depth. Throughout the course, you develop your ability through experimental and investigative work and increase your skills in analysing evidence to draw conclusions.

What you need to be able to study Physics 1 Fundamental is wanting to understand how things work. 2 A good GCSE in Physics or Trilogy Science. 3 An ability to manipulate equations to solve questions. 4 An excellent work ethic that allows you to spend time thinking. If you are intrigued about the Universe around you from the very small (a quark) to the very large (the Universe) and love a challenge, then Physics is for you. How you will be assessed

What you will gain by studying Physics

There are three written examinations at the end of the A Level course.

• A greater understanding as to how the world works

• Modelling Physics – 2 hours 15 minutes

• An ability to predict the consequences of actions

• Exploring Physics – 2 hours 15 minutes

• Understanding of theoretical models

• Unified Physics – 1 hour 30 minutes

• Grasp of the unifying ideas of the universe

Throughout the two year course your practical skills are assessed.

Topics covered on the Physics course include some that you have seen before, but taken to a greater depth: Forces, Resistance, Electrical Theory and Kinetic Energy. Other topics are new and you will explore Wave Phenomena and the weird world of Quantum Theory. Topics such as Nuclear Physics (including Fundamental Particles), Medical Imaging and Modelling the Universe are also covered, plus many others.

What this course can lead to Studying Physics enables you to progress into further or higher education to follow courses in Physics, Engineering, one of the other sciences or related subjects, or to enter employment where a knowledge of Physics would be useful. Physics can lead to numerous career paths from research and development, to computer software or even banking. Physicists are seen as able problem solvers who are much in demand. Physics A Level also provides an interesting and stimulating experience even for those who do not wish to pursue the subject further.

Politics Politics is a vibrant contemporary course that allows you to explore the political systems of the UK and other countries. It involves political theory, a study of representative democracy and an analysis of how government operates. If you are interested in current political affairs and want to deepen your knowledge of political systems, then this course is a superb A Level option. Examination Board – Edexcel

What you will study The A Level has three components. 1 UK Politics • Democracy and Political Participation • Party Policies and Ideology • Elections and Voting Behaviour

• US Elections and Political Parties • US Pressure Groups • US Constitution • The Presidency and Congress • The US Supreme Court and Civil Liberties

• Pressure Groups

You will also have to compare the US system to that of the UK.

• Role of the Media

How you will be assessed

2 Governing the UK • The Constitution and the role of the EU in British Politics

Each component will be separately examined in three 2 hour papers at the end of Year 13 with all parts equally weighted.

• Parliament

What this course can lead to

• The Prime Minister and Cabinet

Politics is regarded as a facilitating subject by Russell Group Universities and is therefore compatible with any academic degree subject. A study of Politics is a good basis for further studies of Law, History, PPE and Social Sciences. A Politics degree will give great flexibility in future career paths but has direct links to work in Government, Journalism, Law, Finance and Banking and International Business and Trade.

• Judges and Civil Liberties In Year 13 there is a module on the US Political System.

3 Comparitive Politics – USA

Psychology Psychology is the scientific study of the mind and behaviour. The course is interesting, engaging and enjoyable. A Level Psychology covers a diverse selection of topic areas including attachment, eating behaviour and social influence and it is in the investigation of these that we address a number of questions which psychologists research: Why do children form attachments to their caregivers? Why do we forget things? Why do people prefer certain foods? Why do we dislike some food? For what reasons do people commit crime? Examination Board – AQA Psychology is fun! It is a challenging, but accessible and enjoyable subject. It is a very popular choice at A Level. Psychology will enable you to develop a range of skills including; essay writing, analysis, evaluation and mathematical skills, as well as providing an understanding of how psychological investigations are conducted. What you will study Year 12 Unit 1– Introductory topics in Psychology This unit includes the study of social influence, memory and attachment. Social influence This is the study of people and their behaviour. The topic covers conformity and obedience as well as the influential research of Zimbardo, Milgram and Asch. Memory Here we study the structure of memory, why people forget, how people recall information in eyewitness testimony and how leading questions may affect their accounts as well as criminal trials. Attachment Here we study how attachment types differ between people, different cultures and how these important attachments may have a significant impact on adult romantic relationships. Psychopathology This topic encompasses the study of abnormal behaviours. We look at how abnormality is defined and focus on three key psychopathologies: OCD, phobias and depression. Unit 2 – Psychology in context This unit includes approaches in Psychology, Psychopathology and Research Methods. Approaches in Psychology The focus of this is the historical background of Psychology and the development of psychology as a science. We also study the theoretical underpinnings of the subject including behaviourism, social learning theory and the biological approaches. Bio Psychology This unit looks at the biological aspects of psychology. We look at the stress response, hemispheric lateralisation, the sleep/wake cycle and the way the brain is studied.

Research Methods This part of the course focuses on the methods that psychologists use to investigate human behaviour from laboratory studies to observations. Year 13 Unit 3 – Issues and Options in Psychology Issues and Debates In this topic we look at the issues and debates which arise throughout the course including nature nurture, freewill determinism and gender bias. Relationships This unit picks up where the attachment topic left off and the focus is on adult romantic relationships. We study how relationships are formed, maintained and break down. In addition, we take a close look at the modern phenomenon of parasocial and virtual relationships. Eating behaviour This topic takes us on a journey through the biological, social and cultural explanations of why people eat, why some diets are successful, and some are not! We also look at the biological and psychological explanations of anorexia nervosa and obesity. Aggression This part of the course looks at how aggression affects individuals, the complex relationship between neural and hormonal mechanisms in aggression, including aspects such as ethological explanations and human explanations of aggression, including a focus on how prison effects an individual and whether aggression is a factor brought into the prison environment or whether it exists solely within the institution. How you will be assessed Assessment will be based on three 2 hour examinations at the end of Year 13. What this course can lead to Psychology fits with many careers. After all Psychology is the study of people. So, wherever there are people Psychology exists. Psychology is useful for a variety of careers including; Medicine, Law, Forensic Psychology, Clinical Psychology, Counselling, Sports Psychology, Advertising and Marketing, Management, Educational Psychology – including teaching and Child Psychology.

Religious Studies Do you want to study a subject that teaches you how to think, not what you should think? Are you interested in the purpose of life, and looking at a range of perspectives on what happens after we die? Do you feel that science has replaced the need for religion and think that belief in God is a purely psychological phenomenon? Do you ever find yourself debating moral issues such as ‘saviour siblings’ or assisted suicide? Then this is the course for you! Examination Board – OCR

In Religious Studies, the subject matter is deep and the issues profound, dealing with ultimate questions about existence, morality and the meaning of life. It suits people interested in both Sciences and the Arts, and having a wide spectrum of opinions inevitably leads to the most interesting discussions in class. You will enjoy this popular and exciting course if you have an open-minded approach to religious and philosophical questions and a willingness to consider different points of view. What you will study and how you will be assessed At A Level you will be studying three units: 1: Philosophy of Religion This unit considers the significance and influence of philosophical issues on religion. You will study the Traditional Arguments for the Existence of God, Life after Death, Religious Language, Religious Experience, the Problem of Evil and Suffering and the Nature of God. You will be asked to analyse and evaluate a wide range of ideas from Anselm’s Ontological Argument to Marx’s judgement that ’religion is the opium of the people’. 2: Religion and Ethics This unit focuses on Ethical Theories. You will explore Natural Law, Kant, Utilitarianism, Meta Ethics, Situation Ethics and Conscience. These theories and principles will then be applied to issues such as euthanasia, business and sexual ethics. 3: Development in Christian Thought

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This unit bridges the gap between Philosophy and Ethics and modern day Christianity. It is a systematic study of key concepts in Christian thought. It will explore religious beliefs and teachings: how they have developed historically and how they are understood now. You will study Knowledge

of God, Nature of Jesus and the Nature of Humans, Christian Moral Principles and Actions and Religious Pluralism, Secularism and Gender in today’s society. Assessment will be based on three 2 hour examinations at the end of Year 13. What this course can lead to Through studying and discussing these issues you will learn how to think; you will improve your analytical skills and ability to develop an argument. You will learn to think philosophically about issues, understand how key ideas have developed through the work of philosophers in the past and recognise their influence on ideas in society today and in the future. You will also have the opportunity to reflect upon your own points of view in relation to these ideas. The transferable skill-set delivered through A Level Religious Studies is valued by a wide range of disciplines and professions such as Law, Business, Journalism, Politics, Media, Management, Medicine and Education, where employers want candidates who are able to look at issues from a variety of viewpoints and have the ability to think through questions on the basis of sound reasoning and solid evidence. In addition, subjects such as Law and Medicine often actively require some evidence of an appreciation and understanding of ethical issues such as those raised through the study of Religious Studies. Moreover, because of the wide-ranging impact of religion across our culture, you will undoubtedly find parallels with other areas of study such as Art, English Language and Literature, Psychology, Music and Science.

GCSE Requirement for sixth Form Girls are required to attain generally eight or nine GCSEs, and at least six of these should be at Grade 6, 7, 8 or 9. In addition, girls wishing to study certain subjects at A Level may be required to achieve a particular grade in a specified GCSE subject or subjects, as shown below.

A Level Subject

GCSE Requirement

Art and Design – Fine Art

Grade 6 or above in Art is preferred.

Art and Design – Graphic Communication

Grade 6 or above in Art is preferred.

Art and Design – Textile Design

Grade 6 or above in Art is preferred.

Biology

Grade 7 or above in Biology or Grade 77 or above in Trilogy Science is required. Grade 7 or above in Mathematics is preferred.

Business

Grade 6 or above in Mathematics and English is preferred.

Chemistry

Grade 7 or above in Chemistry or Grade 77 or above in Trilogy Science is required. Grade 7 or above in Mathematics is preferred.

Computer Science

Grade 6 or above in IT or Computer Science is preferred.

Classical Civilisation

No specific GCSE requirements.

Dance

Grade 6 or above in Dance is preferred.

Drama and Theatre

No specific GCSE requirements but should have acting or design experience.

Economics

Grade 6 or above in Mathematics is required. Grade 6 or above in English is preferred.

English Literature

Grade 6 or above in English and English Literature is required.

French

Grade 7 or above in French is preferred.

Further Mathematics

Grade 9 in Mathematics is preferred.

Geography

Grade 6 or above in Geography is preferred.

German

Grade 7 or above in German is preferred.

History

Grade 6 or above in History is preferred.

Latin

Grade 6 or above in Latin is required.

Mathematics

Grade 7 or above in Mathematics is required.

Music

Grade 6 or above in Music is required and ABRSM Music Grade 5 or equivalent is preferred.

Philosophy

No specific GCSE requirements.

Physical Education

Grade 6 or above in Biology and Physics is preferred. Must be participating in Sport outside of school at a club or county level.

Physics

Grade 7 or above in Physics or Grade 77 or above in Trilogy Science is required. Grade 7 or above in Mathematics is preferred.

Politics

No specific GCSE requirements but prior discussion with relevant member of staff is needed.

Psychology

Grade 6 or above in Mathematics, Biology (or Grade 66 or above in Trilogy Science) and English is required.

Religious Studies

Grade 6 or above in Religious Studies is preferred.

Spanish

Grade 7 or above in Spanish is preferred.

A Level case studies Lucy Subjects: English Literature A*, History A*, Politics A* Lucy is now studying Law at the London School of Economics. Why I chose the subjects I did I chose history because of how much I had enjoyed GCSE history, and the curriculum at A level really interested me, particularly Russia, and the Irish coursework. I had always intended to choose essay-based subjects having decided quite early on that I would most likely be going down the lawroute, which recommends essay-based A levels. Technically I only needing one or two essay subjects to apply to study law but I decided to take three as I enjoy the creative freedom in writing, students can produce wildly different essay, but still all get a top grade. This helped me develop my ability to form my own opinions and explore different viewpoints throughout my time in the sixth form. Politics was the only A level I chose that I had not studied at GCSE, as it was something I wanted to improve my knowledge about, and that I thought it was important to be engaged in as a woman, as well as just being useful for my degree- (which it has really has proven to be so far: especially for public law lectures where topics I studied at A-level have been used as key examples). Study methods I found useful I thought it important from the start to ensure that I approached learning the content and taking notes to avoid being in a position where I needed to re-teach myself forgotten material. I dedicated lesson times to listening and really understanding the content, and then would use free periods or time after school that day to write up the relevant notes in my own words (not just rewriting the PowerPoint or the textbook). In order to memorise facts, figures, content and quotes in the run up to mock exams and the real exams, I used a method known as ‘blurting’. Essentially, I would read through all the notes of the topic I was focusing on, then walk away and give myself a 5-minute-or-so break to prevent myself just ‘brain dumping’, then I would go back and write down as much as I could remember of the topic. Any key things missed I would go back and highlight so that I could focus on remembering them the next time around.

For History and Politics, I found that planning essays and sources, as opposed to fully writing every possible essay out, made for a better use of my time. Planning a source question can be done in 5 minutes, so I could plan and analyse four in the time I could have written just one out. My main method of revision was essay planning so I could practice building an argument around topics that may show up in the exam, while once again not having to spend hours writing up essays in full. I often compared and wrote essays with a fellow student, the addition of a second perspective and often a different conclusion to my own, was beneficial to critical thinking about my arguments. Subject specific teaching methods Something that was really useful for me in History and Politics, not just at the beginning of year 12 but throughout the courses, was being shown different exemplar responses to a question that scored different grades. This helped me to know the difference between what a level 3/4 answer sounded like compared to a level 5 answer. Detailed supporting material covering the content also allowed me to feel as though I could focus on understanding the content in lessons without being distracted by the feeling that I should be making constant notes. English literature lessons very much encouraged an open discussion in class, in a seminar-like format, which was incredibly useful for developing my ability to view a text from lots of different angles, even if they differed from my own interpretation. There was regularly, for example, varied opinions on the characters of Hamlet and Winston Smith, but the teachers’ encouragement of such debate, and role as devil’s advocate, allowed us to develop our understanding of the set texts, and indeed our chosen texts in the coursework, to make for more interesting and personal responses to questions.

Maia

How I studied for my A-levels

Subjects: Geography A*, Maths A*, Further Maths A, Physics A*

Personally, I found notes and practice questions my preferred way of studying across the two years. I found going through the teacher made resources whilst making my own notes useful. Then I would complete practice questions around the topic to consolidate my learning. I completed revision notes on each topic, as well as flashcards on relevant case studies and equations, a day or two after the lesson to go over the material again to check my understanding.

Maia is now studying Geography at Oxford University. Why I choose the subjects I did As I was unsure about what I wanted to do in the future, I chose the subjects which I enjoyed the most. Geography has always been my passion, so it was an easy choice! I also chose Maths and Physics as I find them both very interesting and knew that I wanted to spend more time studying them. I chose to do Further Maths as well because I liked how it was going to be challenging. For all my subjects, it was a case of what I enjoyed doing and so would happily invest extra time in studying throughout the week.

What I enjoyed about the teaching at NHSG For Geography, I appreciated the wide variety of material provided, including through PowerPoints, TED talks and multiple case studies. The Friday lunchtime essay practice was also extremely beneficial, and it improved my essay writing skills under timed conditions. For Physics, I liked the 10-question recall starter at the beginning of the lesson which helped identify which topics I knew, and which I needed to go over again. For Maths and Further Maths, the format of notes followed by questions was ideal in solidifying my understanding of each topic. 43

Émilie

Subjects: Spanish A*, Physics A, Mathematics A*, Further Mathematics B

Subjects: History A*, Politics A, Mathematics A Be is now studying Politics at Glasgow University.

Emilie is now studying Mathematicss at Newcastle University. Why I chose my A-Levels I chose Mathematics and Further Mathematics because of enjoyment of the subject and my desire for a career in the subject area. The Further Mathematicss was tough but really helped me understand and be more confident in my core Maths. I enjoyed the challenge and worked very hard for my grade. I took Physics because I thought it would go well with Maths but also enjoyed it in its own right. I chose Spanish because I was strong at GCSE level and it was rewarding to improve my language skill. The wonderfully supportive department frequently sent my extra resources to suit my own individual interests. In terms of studying, I would recommend doing lots of practice papers. However, taking breaks and giving time for leisure activities is vital to make yourself more rounded and to avoid academic burnout.

I chose History because I always known it was something that I wanted to study. I am really interested in Current Affairs and thought that Politics was something that I would really enjoy studying every day for 2 years and this certainly proved to be the case. What study methods you found most useful I found group studying to be the most useful generally, particularly in History and Politics, where we would pick a topic, and one person would stand up and we would discuss the topic. I found it helpful to do this whilst creating essay plans for as many questions as we could, this meant we had already analysed many of the angles which the exam could approach the topics from. This increased confidence with the material and allowed us to then ask our teachers specific questions on areas where we felt we had learning gaps. What I enjoyed about teaching at NHSG I liked having all the digital resources available on teams with all the information for the lessons. I could use lessons to focus on listening and participating to make sure I fully understand the topic.

Ishika Subjects: Chemistry A, Biology A, Maths A Ishika is studying Medicine at Nottingham University. Why you took the option subjects you did After GCSE I was sure I wanted to go down the science, STEM type pathway and do Medicine, but I also really loved Humanities and History and didn’t want to abandon them completely. I tried to juggle 4 A-Level with Chemistry, Mathematics, Biology and History and even tried to see if I could take History AS Level, but ultimately four was too much. I still found the skills I learned in the weeks of taking History useful to this day in analysing and weighing sources of information and sometimes would drop into lessons for greater academic enrichment. What study methods you found useful My favourite study method for anything is to ‘brain-dump. Which is essentially after the initial round of learning, you come back and, in a mind-map or other format, try and “brain dump” anything and everything you remember about the topic. This tends to both reassure you that you remember more than you thought you did. It also highlights the things you want to remember. Rinse and repeat until you remember all the content you need to! What you appreciated about subject specific teaching methods Any sort of group discussion around a topic always helped me remember the subject more in my mind. It varied from subject to subject—for some I loved a consistent teaching and note-giving/taking method from week to week, for others I found variety in teaching styles helpful—but I think getting lots of material and resources to go through in both lesson and your own time and activities that actively tested my learning always helped the most.

Contact For all enquiries please contact our Admissions Manager on 0191 201 6511 or via email admissions@ncl.gdst.net Senior School Tankerville Terrace Jesmond Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 3BA 0191 281 1768 newcastlehigh.gdst.net

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