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 18 • 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 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: • Is there a link between the western diet and the development of ADHD? • How valuable is enhanced interrogation to international counter-terrorism efforts? • Are non secular states more socially harmonious than secular states?

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.

A Level Courses

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

Director of Sixth Form

Mrs H Harrison h.harrison@ncl.gdst.net

Subject Head of Department Email

Art: Fine Art; Graphic Communication; Miss A Goldie Textile Design a.goldie@ncl.gdst.net

Biology

Business Studies Mrs Waton

Mr C Gibb e.waton@ncl.gdst.net

c.gibb@ncl.gdst.net

Chemistry Dr D Raymond d.raymond@ncl.gdst.net

Classical Civilisation

Latin Mrs N Cameron n.cameron@ncl.gdst.net

Dance

Drama and Theatre

Economics

English Literature

French

Geography

German

History

Information Technology

Mathematics

Further Mathematics Mrs D Hylton

Mrs A Dobson

Mr A Gouge

Ms S Emmett

Mr G Bignot

Mrs S Mawhinney

Mrs Robinson

Mr D Hyde

Mr L Willis

Mrs J Tasker d.hylton@ncl.gdst.net

a.dobson@ncl.gdst.net

a.gouge@ncl.gdst.net

s.emmett@ncl.gdst.net

g.bignot@ncl.gdst.net

s.mawhinney@ncl.gdst.net

s.robinson@ncl.gdst.net

d.hyde@ncl.gdst.net

l.willis@ncl.gdst.net

j.tasker@ncl.gdst.net

Music

Physical Education

Physics

Politics

Psychology

Religious Studies Philosophy

Spanish Mr D Newey

Mrs A Wilson

Mr Morton

Mr D Hyde

Mrs A Robinson

Mrs L Dodd

Ms Estevez-Blanca d.newey@ncl.gdst.net

a.wilson@ncl.gdst.net

a.morton@ncl.gdst.net

d.hyde@ncl.gdst.net

a.robinson@ncl.gdst.net

l.dodd@ncl.gdst.net

a.estevez-blanca@ncl.gdst.net

The breadth of subjects available is brilliant.

Art and Design

Would you like to embark on an artistic journey of selfdiscovery 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.

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. 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. 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. 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.

How you will be assessed

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.

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 Studies

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.

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.

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. 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 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.

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.

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

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 • Ancient History • English • Sciences • Politics • Law • Archaeology • Theology • History • Oriental Languages • Modern Languages • Philosophy • Psychology • Geography • Medicine

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.

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. This year, four of our pupils went 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. Last year, one of our pupils gained a place at the Northern School of Contemporary Dance, one of the most highly regarded Conservatoires in the UK. 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.

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.

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.

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.

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 2500-3000 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 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. This is externally marked by a visiting examiner. 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.

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!

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.

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 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.

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.

How you will be assessed

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

As a guide, these are the texts that we are studying in Year 12 this year. • Hamlet – Shakespeare • The Bloody Chamber – Angela Carter • Dracula – Bram Stoker • A Doll’s House – Ibsen • Maud – Tennyson

What this course can lead to

“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.

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.

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.

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)

Core Human Geography

Here the content includes the study of: •Population •Migration •Settlement dynamics Assessment – 1 hour 30 minute written examination (25% of total A Level)

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

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

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

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?

1. Geographers can deal with data and people 2. Geographers have critical analysis and writing skills 3. Geographers can keep pace with change - they have the level of rigour, knowledge, conceptual thinking and intellectual curiosity required in the labour market.

The huge variety of skills and knowledge acquired leads to a wealth of opportunities for future study and careers, including: •Civil Service •Computing •Conservation •Environmental Agencies •Environmental Consultancy •Financial Services •Heritage Management •Law •Leisure and Tourism •Marketing & Retailing •Planning •Research •Teaching

“Employers rarely need narrow specialists. They need bright, committed, inquisitive and determined individuals with the ability to draw on what is happening elsewhere in the world. The best Geographers are stars in this respect!” Professor David Rhind, Chief Executive, Ordnance Survey

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.

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 ‘essay-based’ 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.

Information Technology

“Growing at four times the UK average for the coming decade, we expect the IT profession will need more than 550,000 new entrants over the next five years.” Karen Price, CEO of E-Skills UK

Here at NHSG, we offer the Cambridge International GCE in Information Technology (IT). It encourages you to become an effective and discerning user of IT; it helps you develop a broad range of IT skills, knowledge and understanding. You will study the structure and use of IT systems within a wide range of organisations, including the use of a variety of computer networks. As a result, you will gain an understanding of IT system life cycles and how these affect the workplace. You will also learn about the wider impact of IT on society in general. Additionally, you will study some of the underpinning programming behind some of the more popular applications, gaining skills which will allow you to adapt and improve existing application packages relevant to your own use of IT.

We strongly recommend that girls who are beginning this course should have previously completed either an IGCSE or GCSE course in Information and Communication Technology or Computer Science, preferably with a minimum achievement of Grade 6.

What you will study and how you will be assessed

In a world where IT is constantly changing, individuals increasingly need technological and information literacy skills that include the ability to gather, process and manipulate data. The impact of IT on society is enormous and as the percentage of businesses and households connected to communication networks such as the internet grows, so does the need for individuals who understand these new technologies.

At A Level, you will also study simple programming for the web relevant to your own use of IT. This course encourages you to explore the subject in depth: developing not only subject knowledge, but also a strong understanding of some of the key concepts that are critical to mastering the subject. The syllabus is regularly updated so that it reflects the latest thinking. The course will encourage you to be responsible, reflective, innovative, engaged and confident in the use of IT.

The key concepts on which the syllabus is built are set out below: • Impact of IT • New Technologies • Hardware and Software • Networks • System Life Cycle • The Internet

There are three possible assessment approaches for Cambridge International A Level but we will offer you the opportunity to take all four papers during the course of the two years where appropriate.

What this course can lead to?

You may chose to study IT further at university, or you may use the skills you have learned to support your study of other subjects. Furthermore, when studied alongside an A Level course in Mathematics, a wide choice of Computing and Electronic Engineering degree courses are also available for further study at university. Girls who have previously studied this course have progressed to courses in: • Ethical Hacking • Computer Engineering • Data Forensics • Computing and Electrical Engineering • International Business with IT • Events Management

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.

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. 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:

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

A Level Modern Foreign Languages offer you opportunities to: • Develop and build on the skills acquired at GCSE • Facilitate foreign travel • Gain an insight into another culture and society • 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 3 Grammar 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

What this course can lead to

As a nation, it is important for us to demonstrate an ability to communicate with others in their language, be it for business or pleasure. You may choose to study one or two languages in combination with other disciplines. This last option is becoming increasingly popular as universities offer more courses in which the study of a foreign language is one component: Law, Business and Management Studies, Information Technology, Media Studies and International Relations to name but a few.

An A Level in a Modern Foreign Language gives you the opportunity to work or study in Europe during your undergraduate experience and beyond university.

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.

Studying Music at NHSG means: • 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. • 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. • 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

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.

Depending on this choice, the structure is: Unit 1 – Performing 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 2 – Composition 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.

Unit 3 – Appraising 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.

What this course can lead to

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.

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.”

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? •Do you know when you are happy? •Is morality a matter of opinion? •Is beauty subjective?

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.

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:

“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.”

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 •Reason as a source of knowledge •The limits of knowledge

Moral Philosophy

•Normative Ethical Theories (Utilitarian, Kantian Ethics, Virtue Theory) •Applied Ethics (around simulated killing, eating animals, telling lies) •Meta-Ethics

Year 13 Metaphysics of God

•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 •Mind-brain type identity theory •Eliminative materialism •Functionalism

How you will be assessed

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

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.

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.

It 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.

Knowledge

Study includes three main theoretical strands:

1 Physiological Factors

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.

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. • Physiological factors – 2 hours • Psychological factors – 1 hour • Sociocultural issues – 1 hour

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’ 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.

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 will gain by studying Physics

• A greater understanding as to how the world works • An ability to predict the consequences of actions • Understanding of theoretical models • Grasp of the unifying ideas of the universe 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 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

There are three written examinations at the end of the A Level course. • Modelling Physics – 2 hours 15 minutes • Exploring Physics – 2 hours 15 minutes • Unified Physics – 1 hour 30 minutes Throughout the two year course your practical skills are assessed.

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.

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 • Pressure Groups • Role of the Media

2 Governing the UK

• The Constitution and the role of the EU in British Politics • Parliament • The Prime Minister and Cabinet • Judges and Civil Liberties

In Year13 there is a module on the US Political System.

3 Comparitive Politics – USA

• US Elections and Political Parties • US Pressure Groups • US Constitution • The Presidency and Congress • The US Supreme Court and Civil Liberties You will also have to compare the US system to that of the UK.

How you will be assessed

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

What this course can lead to

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.

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?

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.

Addiction

This part of the course looks at what addiction is, psychological explanations for nicotine and gambling addictions as well as ways of reducing addiction, such as drug therapy.

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!

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

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 at least nine GCSEs, and at least six of these should be at Grade 6, 7, 8 or 9 (or B, A, A*). 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 Studies Grade 6 or above in Mathematics and English is preferred.

Chemistry

Classical Civilisation

Dance

Drama and Theatre

Economics Grade 7 or above in Chemistry or Grade 77 or above in Trilogy Science is required. Grade 7 or above in Mathematics is preferred. No specific GCSE requirements. Grade 6 or above in Dance is preferred. No specific GCSE requirements but should have acting or design experience. Grade 6 or above in Mathematics is required. Grade 6 or above in English is preferred.

English Literature

French

Further Mathematics

Geography

German

History

Information Technology Grade 6 or above in English and English Literature is required. Grade 7 or above in French is preferred. Grade 9 in Mathematics is preferred. Grade 6 or above in Geography is preferred. Grade 7 or above in German is preferred. Grade 6 or above in History is preferred. Grade 6 or above in ICT or Computing is preferred.

Latin

Mathematics

Music

Philosophy

Physical Education

Physics

Politics Grade 6 or above in Latin is required. Grade 7 or above in Mathematics is required. Grade 6 or above in Music is required and ABRSM Music Grade 5 or equivalent is preferred. No specific GCSE requirements. Grade 6 or above in Biology and Physics is preferred. Must be participating in Sport outside of school at a club or county level. Grade 7 or above in Physics or Grade 77 or above in Trilogy Science is required. Grade 7 or above in Mathematics is preferred. No specific GCSE requirements but prior discussion with relevant member of staff is needed.

Psychology

Religious Studies

Spanish Grade 6 or above in Mathematics, Biology (or Grade 66 or above in Trilogy Science) and English is required. Grade 6 or above in Religious Studies is preferred. Grade 7 or above in Spanish is preferred.

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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Registered in England No. 6400 Registered Charity No. 306983 Registered Office: 10 Bressenden Place, London SW1E 5DH

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