WELCOME
E FOSTER
Brinsworth Academy Sixth Form is a popular choice, with a vibrant and growing community of students. Our success is based on a strong focus on achievement and exam success. We offer a wide range of A-level and BTEC courses and wider Academy activities to enable students to develop personally and socially.
We pride ourselves on the academic and pastoral support we offer all students and we are passionate about every student’s achievements and about celebrating their successes. We are extremely proud of the successful routes our students take beyond the Sixth Form.
We have a team of dedicated and experienced staff who are available to guide and support our students throughout their courses.
We are proud of our reputation for excellence and our recent partnership with New Collaborative Learning Trust has given us a platform to grow further. September 2025 sees the launch of exciting new subjects at Brinsworth such as BTEC Law and Politics.
Why not join us and become part of our tradition of success? We have a proven track record of success with Sixth Form students. Our results continue to rise with many students securing places at top universities and in employment.
Before courses begin, students will be provided with enough information to make informed decisions about courses - meeting their individual needs and aspirations. We stage an open evening in the autumn term and hold interviews following the initial application. Students have a second interview in the spring term. Following GCSE results in August, we invite students for a final interview to discuss the options available before enrolling into the Sixth Form.
The aim of our prospectus is to give you an informed view of what we offer here at Brinsworth Academy Sixth Form. If you would like any further advice, please do not hesitate to contact me. We also have a Sixth Form section on our Academy website. We look forward to welcoming you to Brinsworth Academy Sixth Form.
MRS
Head of Sixth Form
HOW DO I APPLY?
If you are already a student at Brinsworth Academy, there’s nothing you need to do at this stage.
Later in the Autumn term, we will arrange a time to meet with students in Year 11 to discuss plans for post-16 education. This interview forms the initial application to Sixth Form and will provide us with an opportunity to explore with you your plans for the future, to provide information, advice and guidance, to discuss the courses on offer at and to consider the ones that might suit you best, alongside the entry requirements for those courses. We look forward to making conditional offers to students who attend well, have good behaviour and demonstrate positive attitudes to learning, and where there is a good chance that you will meet the minimum entry requirements if you work hard.
IF YOU ARE NOT CURRENTLY A STUDENT AT BRINSWORTH ACADEMY, THEN PLEASE CONTACT: E.FOSTER@NCLT.AC.UK FOR AN APPLICATION PACK.
Once we have received and reviewed external applications, applicants may be invited to visit the school for a tour and for an interview to look at next steps and conditional offers based on entry requirements and expectations.
NEW MINIMUM ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
The entry requirements reflect those in place in the three outstanding Sixth Form colleges that we are working closely with, and which have proven to be successful. Minimum entry requirements are there to safeguard students, ensuring that students have a secure platform of knowledge and skills at the very beginning of their Sixth Form courses and that they have a realistic chance of successfully completing the course.
All students need to have completed a minimum of five GCSE courses. The average of all the L2 and GCSE grades a student has achieved forms part of the minimum entry requirements. Some courses require an average point score of 3.5, whereas others require a higher score, for example 5.6 for A-level Maths.
Every course in the Sixth Form requires students to have achieved a grade 4 in GCSE English Language, and some courses may require a higher English Language grade.
In addition to meeting the average GCSE point score requirement for each of the courses you wish to study, you may need to achieve particular grades in specific GCSE courses. For example, a grade 7 in GCSE Maths is required for A-level Maths. YOU CAN
10 GREAT TO COME TO
of A-level and Level 3 Applied courses.
Teachers That know you and will support you.
A Sixth Form Working Closely with outstanding Sixth Form colleges.
A young adult Learning Environment
A Wide Range Regular Assessment and Academic Support
NEW PARTNERSHIPS WORKING ALONGSIDE OUTSTANDING SIXTH FORM COLLEGES
Since joining New Collaborative Learning Trust, we have been working closely with our partners at New College Doncaster, New College Pontefract and New College Bradford, all of which are highly successful Sixth Form colleges.
These colleges have all recently been graded ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted and have a strong track record of delivering exceptional results in A-level courses and A-level equivalent courses.
In the year ahead, many of the courses, teaching resources, assessments and systems that have proven to be so successful at these Sixth Form colleges will be incorporated into Brinsworth Sixth Form. Our teachers at Brinsworth Sixth Form will be working closely with teachers in these Sixth Form colleges to share best practice.
Leaders at Brinsworth Sixth Form and leaders from these outstanding Sixth Form colleges will be working together to drive high academic standards and to ensure the very best support and experience for students in the Sixth Form.
Form tutors
Your form tutor will help you to settle into Sixth Form, and will support you as you adjust to the challenges of managing your workload and achieving your grades.
Your relationship with your form tutor will be key to ensuring you get the very best out Sixth Form life and engage with it fully.
Daily morning guidance sessions, alongside weekly timetabled Personal Development (Y12) and Guidance (Y13) sessions, will be a mixture of one-to-one support and important, relevant topics, such as social and career-related issues.
Assessments
We need to know how you’re performing so we can help you achieve outstanding results. Both your form Tutor and subject teachers will review your progress on a regular basis, focusing on your achievement and attendance in each subject.
Together you will agree targets to ensure motivation, direction and a clear plan of action to keep you on track and improving.
Financial Support – 16-19 Bursary Fund
Financial support is available to assist eligible students during their time in the Sixth Form. Financial support for successful applicants is paid on a half termly basis to support with:
• The purchase of books/equipment.
• Transport costs (public transport) to and from the Sixth Form.
• Trips and visits organised within the Sixth Form.
• University open days and interviews.
Applications are usually considered at the start of the academic year, though students can apply in-year if their household circumstances change. Payment is subject to satisfactory attendance, engagement and conduct.
This financial support is means-tested and students may be eligible depending on their total household income and certain criteria.
Study Space
At Brinsworth, we are lucky to have a number of dedicated social and study spaces exclusively for students in the Sixth Form. The common room is the place for you to socialise with students at breaks and lunchtimes.
We also have a quiet study area and an IT suite where students can complete directed independent learning activities and revision during their independent study periods.
Directed Independent Learning
This is at the heart of every student’s success. Taking responsibility for your own learning is essential if you are to succeed in post-16 education.
Sixth Form life differs in some important ways from school life. Your relationship with your teachers will be more adult, you won’t need to wear a school uniform and you’ll have independent study time as part of your timetable. There is a much greater expectation for you to take responsibility for your learning, particularly outside of lessons.
You will be set independent learning tasks for each subject each week – taking homework to the next level. This will help you to feel prepared for lessons that are coming up, to consolidate your understanding of recent lessons, and to revisit content from earlier in the course.
The time expectation for this will increase as the courses progress. Students will also increasingly take responsibility for preparation for assessments and examinations and your teachers will support you in developing the strategies that will help you be well-prepared.
Careers Advice
You will also be able to access a comprehensive programme of careers advice in the Sixth Form, including access to the careers service, expert advice about degree courses, support in organising work experience placements and assistance in applying to highly competitive universities.
We will help you to make well-informed decisions about your future and to prepare high-quality applications, whether that’s to university, to apprenticeships or into the labour market.
THE GUIDANCE PROGRAMME
NEW BRINSWORTH SIXTH FORM REPRESENTS AN IMPORTANT STEPPING-STONE BETWEEN HIGH SCHOOL AND UNIVERSITY OR EMPLOYMENT.
Our Sixth Form students are successful in progressing onto university or employment.
A key focus of our work with students is in helping them to secure the best university or best employment which meets their needs and aspirations. To help students achieve this, we offer students a number of opportunities including Realising Opportunities, Transform at Sheffield Hallam University, the University of Cambridge’s HE+ Programme and many more:
Sutton Trust
In 1997 the Sutton Trust was formed and ran its first summer school in partnership with the University of Oxford. Sutton Trust now gives Y12 students from state schools the opportunity to apply for summer schools at leading universities, spending a week experiencing life as an undergraduate, attending lectures, seminars, and social events.
They also offer the Pathways programme where students can apply for a two-year programme alongside their Sixth Form studies. Through work experience, skills workshops and mentoring, and networking opportunities with professionals from specific industries, students will be able to experience what working in that sector is like and decide whether it’s the right choice for them. Pathways programmes usually run for Engineering, Banking and Finance, Engineering, Medicine, Law and Consulting.
Social Mobility Foundation
The Social Mobility Foundation is a charity which aims to make a practical improvement in social mobility for young people. The SMF was founded in 2005 in order to provide opportunities, and networks of career support for 16-17 year olds who do not have links to specific industries through their school or family.
They work with young people prior to and during university, and their Aspiring Professionals Programme offers tailored support across 11 career sectors: Accountancy, Architecture, Banking & Finance, Biology & Chemistry, Business, Digital, Engineering & Physics, Law, Media & Communications, Medicine, and Politics. Students are encouraged to apply for these schemes as they provide valuable connections within the industry.
Access to Sheffield
The Discover programme has been tailor made to give students the experience of what it is like to be a student at the University of Sheffield. They have split the programme into five subject and career pathways so that students can apply to the one that sounds the most exciting, most interesting, or if they want to try something new.
The pathways include:
• Arts & Humanities and Social Sciences.
• Dental Professions.
• Law.
• STEM.
• Medicine.
Alongside this, students also have an enhanced curriculum session offering them access to TED talks, MOOCs and industry-insight seminars.
WHO WE ARE
We are a multi-academy trust comprising of three sixth form colleges, a secondary academy and three primary schools. We have a strong track record of improving the quality of education, raising aspirations and helping young people progress to higher education, apprenticeships and careers. Dinnington High School and Brinsworth Academy will officially become part New Collaborative Learning Trust this year.
OUR VISION: Our colleges and schools will make a significant difference to the lives of young people. As a result, together we will make a positive contribution to social mobility.
OUR COMMITMENT: To provide an outstanding, consistent student experience through collaboration.
OUR 4 PRIORITIES
Student Achievement
Contribution to Social Mobility
OUR VALUES: THE 5 CS
CANDOUR
To be open, honest and fair to everyone.
CHALLENGE
To have high expectations of ourselves and each other.
COLLABORATION
To learn from each other for the benefit of all.
Student Personal Development
Student and Staff Well-being
COMMITMENT
To be dedicated, resilient and strive for continuous improvement.
CARE
To be considerate of others and their needs.
NEW COLLABORATIVE LEARNING TRUST NAMED ‘EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR’
New Collaborative Learning Trust won Employer of the Year at the 2023 MAT Excellence Awards. The national awards celebrate the very best performers from over one thousand MATs across the country.
NCLT were also shortlisted for Wellbeing MAT of the year, reflecting their commitment to putting staff and student wellbeing at the heart of their strategies and policies.
As we continue to thrive, we know that looking after our staff and students is key to our future success.
opening doors to a brighter future
A-LEVEL & APPLIED GENERAL COURSES
COURSES & OPTIONS
BOX A BOX B
Applied Science
Physics
Biology
Business BTEC
Business Economics BTEC
Chemistry
Geography
Maths Psychology
Sociology
History
Children’s Play
Law BTEC
Health & Social Care BTEC (Single)
Performing Arts
Criminology
BOX C
English Literature
Maths
Psychology
Music Performance BTEC
Criminology
English Language
Politics
Human Biology BTEC
Sport
BOX D
Biology
Chemistry
Film Studies
IT BTEC
Religious Studies
Applied Psychology BTEC
French
Art
Textiles
Photography
Health & Social Care BTEC (Double)
Boxes and subjects on offer are provisional and may be subject to change.
SUBJECT CHOICES
SUBJECTS
Art
Biology
Business
Business BTEC
Chemistry
Children’s Play BTEC
Criminology
Economics
English Language
English Literature
Film Studies
French
Further Maths
Geography
Performing Arts
Photography
Physics
Politics
Psychology
Psychology (Applied) BTEC
Religious Studies
Science (Applied) BTEC
Sociology
Health & Social Care (single) BTEC
Health & Social Care (double) BTEC
History
Sport BTEC
Textile Design
MINIMUM ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Students will usually study three courses in the Sixth Form, from the list below. Please note that a course marked ‘double’ will count as two courses. score of 6.8 or above may wish to consider studying four courses, but we will advise students about this at interview and enrolment. A student who has not yet achieved a grade 4 in GCSE Maths will also study GCSE Maths resit alongside a programme of three courses.
not
Grade 5 in GCSE Visual Arts subject. If a GCSE Visual Art subject has not been studied, a
be required
*This qualification is currently subject to a process of review and reform by the Department for Education. If there are any changes to this qualification following your interview for a place at the college, we will be in touch to discuss possible alternative, but related, qualifications.
ART
Subject Intent
Art is offered as a truly creative opportunity for self-expression and growth of confidence. The curriculum provides independence, learning and thinking skills as well as practical elements and professional attitudes.
The Creative Industries are currently one of the fastest growing in the UK and students can expect to develop the skills, knowledge and understanding necessary to continue into professions such as illustration, architecture, advertising, set design and fashion.
What Are Lessons Like In This Subject?
Art is structured to give students the best possible opportunities to develop their skills, understanding and enjoyment of art and design. In addition to painting and drawing, students can be expected to work in textiles, graphic design, printmaking, photography, ceramics and 3D sculpture. Students are encouraged to develop a personal, thematic approach to their studies and make choices and decisions for themselves.
What Will I Study?
• A wide range of practical and research skills.
• How to develop genuine and original ideas.
• A wide range of creative practitioners.
• How to analyse art through research and gallery visits
• How to present creative and personal sketchbook, portfolio and exhibition work.
• How to prepare yourself for onward study at Foundation and Degree level and the world of work in the creative field.
Entry
– Grade 6 in GCSE Visual Arts subject If a GCSE Visual Art subject has – Grade 4 in GCSE English Language of 4.0
In This Subject?
We use metacognition at the heart of our teaching to promote understanding and memory of key concepts. Lessons are taught by teachers who are knowledgeable and have a passion for their subject.
We focus on developing the skills needed to excel at Biology, lots of which are transferable and will help students succeed after their time at college.
Many skills are developed during practical work, and we have well-equipped laboratories to support you with this.
What Will I Study?
• Biological Molecules.
• Cells.
• How organisms exchange substances with their environment.
• Genetic information and variation.
• Energy transfer within and between organisms.
• Responses to internal and external environments.
• Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems.
• Practical and investigative skills in Biology.
Entry
– Grade 6 in GCSE Biology
– Grade 6 in one other Science Course or 6.6 in Combined Science
– Grade 5 in GCSE English Language
– GCSE minimum point score of 5.6
A-LEVEL
BUSINESS
Subject Intent
Key contemporary developments in the labour market such as digital technology, big data and the impact of globalisation are considered within the business curriculum.
Opportunities to interact with industry is firmly embedded in the curriculum and students have regular opportunities to apply key employability skills in both the classroom and in the wider work-related opportunities that being a business student offers.
What Are Lessons Like In This Subject?
In Business lessons you will examine the everyday decisions made by businesses through case studies of a variety of firms, from the large well-known multinationals, to small local independent ones.
We use a combination of individual, paired and group work to develop your analysis and evaluation skills, through tasks such as building and delivering presentations, financial calculations, business games, simulations and role-play case studies.
We will have trips to businesses to see the application of theory in practice and real life, as well as to develop employability skills.
What Will I Study?
• Business as a whole, including ownership, stakeholders and aims of the business.
• Key functional areas – HR, Marketing, Operations and Finance.
• Business in the context of the external environment and the competition in the market.
• Analysing key performance indicators in finance, marketing and HR.
• The impact of threats in the business environment and the extents to which different businesses are affected.
• Investment appraisal.
• Innovation in business in product and process.
• Managing change.
• Business operations in international markets.
Entry
– Grade 4 in GCSE English Language – Grade 5 in GCSE Mathematics
In This Subject?
In BTEC Business, we ensure that our lessons allow opportunities for learners to practice developing employability skills. Lessons build on real-life examples to help learners see theory in practice.
We have a range of IT suites to use for lessons and Microsoft Teams will be used as a library of resources to help aid independent learning in this subject.
What Will I Study?
The course contains both exams and coursework units, involves both theory and practical application, and covers a wide range of topics including the following:
Mandatory examples:
• Exploring business.
• Developing a marketing campaign.
• Personal and business finance.
• Managing an event.
Optional examples:
• Recruitment and selection.
• Corporate social responsibility.
• Investigating customer service.
• Work experience in business.
Entry
– Grade 4 in GCSE English Language – Grade 5 in GCSE Mathematics – GCSE minimum point score of 3.5
A-LEVEL
CHEMISTRY
Subject Intent
The Chemistry curriculum allows students to develop an understanding of physical, inorganic and organic chemistry. It provides many transferable skills required for a range of careers. Teaching students’ skills in critical thinking, problem solving, teamwork and organisation prepares them well for the next steps that Chemistry can offer. These include careers in medicine, engineering, research, pharmacology and support the growing shortage in STEM in Yorkshire.
What Are Lessons Like In This Subject?
You’ll experience a range of activities that are planned to both challenge and develop your confidence of Chemistry. New content is introduced using comprehensive booklets of notes, examples and exercises, and lessons are planned to help you develop strategies for applying your new knowledge to a range of exam questions.
Throughout the course, you will undertake a number of practical activities per term. These are designed to meet the requirements of the Practical Endorsement, develop strong laboratory skills and to further develop your understanding of the practical applications of Chemistry. All of these activities will utilise specialist chemical equipment and dedicated teaching labs.
What Will I Study?
In Year 12, you will study:
• Practical skills in chemistry.
• Foundations in chemistry including atoms, compounds and molecules and bonding and structure.
• The periodic table and energy including periodicity, qualitative analysis and reaction rates and equilibrium.
• Core organic chemistry, including hydrocarbons, alcohols and haloalkanes and infrared spectroscopy (IR) and mass spectrometry (MS).
In Year 13, you will study:
• Practical skills in chemistry.
• Physical chemistry and transition elements including enthalpy, entropy and free energy and redox and electrode potentials.
• Organic chemistry and analysis, including aromatic compounds, carboxylic acids and esters, polymers and NMR.
Entry
– Grade 6 in GCSE Chemistry
Course or 6-6 in Combined Science
– Grade 5 in GCSE English Language
– Grade 6 in GCSE Mathematics – GCSE minimum point score of 5.6
CHILDREN’S PLAY, LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT
placement and are regarded as the most prevalent skills required for future employment. Embedding at least one work placement into the curriculum gives students a wider and rich knowledge and provides them with the understanding needed to progress into occupations such as nursery worker, teaching assistant, paediatric nursing, childhood studies, play therapy, social work, midwifery, and primary education.
What Are Lessons Like In This Subject?
The qualification is for you if you are considering a career as a preschool early years co-ordinator, health visitor assistant, child minder or nursery nurse as well as the previously mentioned occupations. The content may be applied during delivery in a way that is relevant to local employment needs and as a result placements have been established within the local area. As part of the course, you will be required to attend at least one work experience setting for a minimum of 50 hours during the 2 year course. This setting should be working with children aged from birth to seven years and 11 months. This will allow you to work alongside professionals and help you to develop your specialised skills. There is a mixture of both internal and external assessment. Lessons in Children’s Play, Learning and Development are engaging, practical, interactive, and relevant. Students enjoy visits to local play centres, pre-schools, primary schools, childminders, and nurseries. The qualification is designed to support and enhance progression to higher education when taken as part of a programme of study that includes other appropriate Applied General or A-level qualifications.
What Will I Study?
You’ll study a range of topics, including:
• Children’s Development – learn about the theories and models of child development, including how this relates to the Early Years Foundation Stage, and the short and long term effects of factors that affect child development.
• Children’s Communication, Literacy and Numeracy about how children develop these skills and how to plan activities in exciting and interesting ways that help to develop their ability to process information and interact with others.
• Children’s Play and Learning – learn about the types of play how this supports their learning and development, including the theoretical perspectives and curriculum approaches that have been developed over many years and how they influence practice in early years settings.
Entry
- Grade 4 in English Language -
WJEC DIPLOMA
CRIMINOLOGY
Subject Intent
The study of Criminology provides an understanding of the complexity of behaviours and social implications of crimes and criminality and the impact of this on wider social issues, including government policies and initiatives.
Students acquire academic skills such as research, report writing and communication along with practical skills including creativity, planning and organisation. Criminology provides the opportunity to apply knowledge to the real world, creating an awareness of the “big picture” and challenging students to hold to account, and question, decisions made on their behalf, encouraging them to engage with the society around them. The course is good preparation for studying the social sciences at university, and also prepares students for work in crimerelated contexts such as the law, policing and criminal justice.
What Are Lessons Like In This Subject?
In Criminology lessons, students participate in a variety of learning activities as they progress through the course. Lessons include a range of teaching methods to support students in their learning, including independent research and group discussion and tasks. Students learn how the criminal justice system operates and investigate a number of case studies of crimes in society.
For the controlled assessments, students carry out extensive independent research and write a detailed report. This includes planning a campaign to raise awareness of crime in the first year and studying the process of crime investigation from the crime scene to the courtroom in the second year. Students maintain a detailed folder of class resources and notes to prepare them both forms of assessment used in this course – report writing and exams. In addition, students can benefit from guest speakers who work in the field of crime and criminal justice.
What Will I Study?
• Changing awareness of crime: Types of crime, media and crime, official data on crime, crime prevention and awareness campaigns. (Year 1 Controlled Assessment).
• Criminological theories: Theories of criminality from biology, psychology and sociology. (Year 1 Exam).
• Crime scene to courtroom: The criminal justice system from investigation to verdict, personnel and techniques involved in criminal investigations and courtroom procedures. (Year 2 Controlled Assessment).
• Crime and punishment: Law-making, criminal justice, forms and functions of punishment. (Year 2 Exam).
Entry
- Grade 5 in English Language
on a daily basis by students without often realising it. Once they start studying, they begin to review their own choices and opportunities.
What Are Lessons Like In This Subject?
In Economics lessons you will examine the principles and models of economics through real life examples recent UK and world events, as well as everyday applications from your own experiences, such as what affected your decision to buy a particular product or to choose a certain career path. We use a combination of individual, paired and group work to develop your analysis and evaluation skills, through tasks such as responding to exam questions, debates, complex problem solving of economics problems and simulations.
We have trips to local businesses to see how they are affected by economic changes and have visits from guest speakers from the industry and financial institutions who will explain their responses to economic policy changes. We have teaching classrooms and IT suites, and we will use Microsoft Teams as a library for all teaching resources as well as setting and collecting independent work.
What Will I Study?
Microeconomics - individuals, firms and market behaviour:
• How economic decisions are made.
• Price determination in competitive markets.
• Business economics.
• Behavioural economics.
• Distribution of income and wealth: poverty and inequality.
• Government intervention into markets and government failure.
Macroeconomics - development in the national and international economy:
• Inflation, growth and unemployment.
• Macro policy management.
• Banking and Financial markets.
• Economic growth and development.
• Living standards and quality of life.
• The challenges of globalisation.
• The UK and the international economy.
Entry
Grade 5 in GCSE English Language
Grade 6 in GCSE Mathematics
ENGLISH LANGUAGE
Subject Intent
The main focus behind the study of English Language is communication. Students are encouraged to explore how and why we communicate in the world in which we live, and how to express these ideas using their own successful communication skills. The asking of thought-provoking and polemical questions allows students to assess different arguments and to learn the value of their own thinking. Debate is crucial and encourages students to think outside of their own personal circumstances, developing their sense of empathy.
Our English Language curriculum has been designed to enable students to understand the relationship between language and society, with a focus on honing their skills to be fully functioning members within that society.
What Are Lessons Like In This Subject?
You can expect English Language lessons to always be lively, engaging and varied. Through the exploration of a range of spoken and written texts, students will develop their appreciation and understanding for the complex issues that underpin communication. There will be opportunities to debate a range of topical issues, such as the relationship between language and gender identity, political correctness and political bias. In addition, students are encouraged to collect their own data for analysis, from motivational speeches and celebrity interviews to editorial features and sports commentaries. Students are also able to demonstrate their more creative side through the coursework, as well as developing their independent working skills through the completion of a Language Investigation. You will also benefit from our close links with universities, as well as a range of enrichment opportunities including taking part in writing competitions and a creative writing club.
What Will I Study?
Through the analysis of a range of texts, data and theories, you will study:
• How language is used to create meanings and representations.
• Language diversity, including an exploration of gender, region, ethnicity and occupation.
• Language change over time.
• Language discourses.
• Child language development.
The course is assessed through the combination of two exam papers and coursework. The coursework requires you to write a 750-word creative text with an accompanying 750-word analytical commentary, as well as a 2000-word investigation in which you explore a language issue of your choosing. This is worth 20% of the qualification.
Entry
– Grade 5 in GCSE English Language
ENGLISH LITERATURE
exploration of pre-1900 texts, including Shakespeare’s Othello and one post-2000 text. The texts studied encompass drama, prose and poetry. Overall, English Literature provides students with the opportunity to explore current topics, widens their understanding of the world in which they live and provides opportunities to further develop cultural capital.
What Are Lessons Like In This Subject?
You always know when English Literature lessons are happening because our classrooms are filled with enthusiasm and passion for the written word. Students who choose this subject can expect to be encouraged to share their love for literature by exploring a wide range of texts, including prose, poetry and drama.
You will engage in spirited discussions, reflecting on a wide range of different perspectives and write thoughtful essays about the writer’s craft, commenting on how ideas can be shaped by the contexts in which they are written.
What Will I Study?
You will engage critically and creatively with a substantial body of texts and ways of responding to them, including:
• Hamlet by William Shakespeare.
• A Streetcar Named Desire by Tennessee Williams.
• Frankenstein by Mary Shelley.
• The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood.
• An anthology of modern poetry to compare with unseen poetry.
• A collection of poems.
The course is assessed through the combination of three exam papers and coursework. The coursework requires you to write an extended essay of around 2500 words comparing two literary texts of your own choosing. This is worth 20% of the qualification.
Entry
– Grade 5 in GCSE English Language – Grade 5 in GCSE English Literature – GCSE minimum
FILM STUDIES
Subject Intent
Film is one of the main cultural innovations of the 20th century and a major art form of the last hundred years. Those who study it characteristically bring with them a high degree of enthusiasm and excitement for what is a powerful and culturally significant medium, inspiring a range of responses from the emotional to the reflective. Film Studies consequently makes an important contribution to the curriculum, offering the opportunity to investigate how film works both as a medium of representation and as an aesthetic medium.
What Are Lessons Like In This Subject?
During Film Studies lessons, you will study mainstream films from the past and the present as well as a range of recent and contemporary British films, American independent films and global films, both non-English language and English language. The historical range of film represented in those films is extended by the study of silent film and significant film movements so that learners can gain a sense of the development of film from its early years to its still emerging digital future. Studies in documentary, experimental and short films add to the breadth of the learning experience.
What Will I Study?
• Varieties of film and filmmaking.
• Development of film across the world.
• Short films.
• Documentary films.
• Screenplay creation.
• Film directing.
• Film editing.
Entry
– Grade 5 in GCSE English Language
– Grade 5 in GCSE English Literature
– GCSE minimum point score of 4.5
achieve a high level of communicative competence in the four equally important attainment targets of listening, speaking, reading and writing, thus not only developing literacy skills but also strengthening students’ resilience and problem-solving skills.
What Are Lessons Like In This Subject?
Having a languages degree does not mean you have to be a teacher, translator or interpreter. It complements many careers in the world of business and travel. Having a language qualification shows employers that you have transferable skills and are a good communicator and without doubt opens many doors into the European job market.
You could opt to study a language at degree level for four years or you could add a language module to another degree which may mean having the opportunity to study and work abroad. A number of our students have gone on to university and have studied a language as part of their degree.
What Will I Study?
• Family Life
• Cyber Society
• Voluntary Work
• Diversity
• Criminality
• The Arts
• Immigration
• Political Life.
In addition to these themes you will study the book ‘No et Moi’ and the film ‘La Haine’. Students will also conduct individual research on a subject of personal interest relating to a country where French is spoken.
Entry
– Grade 6 in GCSE French
– Grade 6 in GCSE English Language
– GCSE minimum point score of 5.6
FURTHER MATHEMATICS
Subject Intent
Students who want to continue with Maths or Computer Science at degree level will benefit from studying Further Maths as it is a requirement for some Higher Education providers. Students will see the links between different areas of mathematics and apply their mathematical skills across all areas. Students will learn how to reason logically and recognise incorrect reasoning. Students are taught to read and comprehend mathematical arguments, including justifications of methods and formulae, and students will gain confidence to communicate their understanding. Students will use their mathematical skills and techniques to solve challenging problems, which require them to decide on the solution strategy. All of these skills are highly desirable in the work place and in further education.
What Are Lessons Like In This Subject?
Just as in Mathematics, Further Mathematics lessons always begin with retrieval practice - a quiz, skills check, or past exam question. Then new concepts are introduced using teacher examples, enhanced with interactive graphing software and other exploratory activities. The emphasis is on building a strong conceptual understanding in order to develop problem-solving ability. Time in lessons is devoted to doing as much mathematics as possible - individually, working in small groups, or in whole-class discussion, with students being invited to contribute their solution strategies or lead examples on the board. The use of a graphical calculator is essential for further mathematics and so this is explicitly taught in lessons. Support is provided for those wishing to apply to top-tier universities through mock interviews and assistance with preparing for the STEP, MAT, and TMUA papers.
What Will I Study?
The course will include:
• Proof.
• Complex numbers.
• Matrices.
• Further algebra and functions.
• Further calculus.
• Further vectors.
• Polar coordinates.
• Hyperbolic functions.
• Differential equations.
• Further numerical methods
• Further mechanics (including energy, circular motion, momentum, and centres of mass).
• Further statistics (including random variables, further hypothesis testing, and confidence intervals).
What Are Lessons Like In This Subject?
Lessons in Geography are engaging and interactive. We use IT, media, and a range of academic materials to explore and research geographical issues, like climate change.
There are four days of required fieldwork where students conduct data collection tasks, visiting the Holderness coast,
BTECT EXTENDED CERTIFICATE & DIPLOMA
HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE
Subject Intent
Health and Social Care gives students the chance to look at sociological and psychological underpinnings of health whilst also examining and evaluating human development and key aspects of the working world such as health and safety. It enables students to develop transferable skills and encourages them to self-reflect and regulate to inform their practice. Communication and teamwork skills are integral whilst on work placement and are regarded as the most widespread and ‘baseline’ skills required for employment. Embedding work placements into the curriculum gives students a more broad and rich experience and provides them with knowledge needed to progress into occupations such as nursing, midwifery, youth work or the care sector.
What Are Lessons Like In This Subject?
This qualification is for you if you are considering a career in nursing, midwifery, care work and social work. The qualification at Diploma has 100 hours compulsory work experience to be completed over the two years, allowing you the opportunity to work alongside professionals and help you to develop professional skills. All course pathways have elements of both external and internal assessments that must be completed to achieve the full qualification.
The course follows a rich diverse curriculum, including specialist talks from professionals in the field of health and social care and mental health. Lessons in Health and Social Care are engaging, interactive and relevant. Students enjoy the chance to hold debates and have full class discussions, to prepare and deliver presentations and to be able to work as a team. On completion of the course many, of our students apply to HE, higher level apprenticeships, employment or specialist training.
What Will I Study?
Topics to be studied across the suite of courses may include:
• Human lifespan and development.
• Working in Health and Social Care.
• Enquiries into current research in Health and Social Care.
• Principles of safe practice in Health and Social Care.
• Meeting individual care and support needs
• Promoting public health.
• Physiological disorders.
• Psychological perspectives.
*This qualification is currently subject to a process of review and reform by the Department for Education. If there are any changes to this qualification following your interview for a place at the college, we will be in touch to discuss possible alternative, but related, qualifications.
Entry
- Grade 4 in English Language
- GCSE minimum point score of 3.5
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENT FOR DIPLOMA:
- Grade 4 in any 2 Sciences or 4-4 in Combined Science
Qualification
Available
- Extended Certificate - Diploma
In History we engage learners with sources and text written by historians and use these to interpret events from the past. We use IT quizzes to test student content, whilst prompting students to beat their best score. We promote academic literature which supports student learning and invite guest speakers who are passionate about their subject.
What Will I Study?
Paper 1: The Tudors 1485-1603
The Tudors, 1485-1603. This breadth module covers the entire Tudor reign (Henry VII, Henry VIII, Edward, Mary and Elizabeth). It explores themes such as government, economics, foreign policy, rebellions, society and religion across the whole period.
Paper 2: France in Revolution 1774-1815
A study of another period of rapid change, investigating an event that, more than any other, shaped the modern world. Students will explore the causes of the revolution, the attempts to modernise France and its monarchy, the execution of the King and the launch of the ‘Terror’. The unit will also cover the rise of Napoleon Bonaparte, including his military successes, rule of France, and subsequent downfall.
Unit 3: Coursework
In our coursework module you can choose from 20 questions from over 2000 years of history. Just some of our different options are: the Greek Golden Age, the Fall of the Roman Republic, Alfred the Great, Viking England, The Culture of the Mongol Empire, The collapse of the Ottoman Empire, Medieval Queenship, the fight for Women’s Suffrage, American Foreign Policy in the 20th Century, US Civil Rights and the Israel Palestine Conflict. Each option is fully supported and enables you to personalise your A-level study and explore a wide variety of topics before making your choice. The coursework module will enable you to build up the independent research skills needed for all university courses with the support of your teachers. To see our full range of options, just speak with a member of the History team.
Entry
– Grade 6 in GCSE History (if studied) – Grade 5 in GCSE English Language
– GCSE minimum point score of 5.0
HUMAN BIOLOGY (APPLIED)
Subject Intent
The Human Biology curriculum equips students with the scientific knowledge, understanding and practical skills to support progression into a range of job roles within health and medicine, such as carrying out a range of laboratory and scientific tests to support diagnosis and treatment of disease. There would also be opportunities to progress to job roles working directly with patients, measuring and evaluating particular organs and systems such as scientists working in cardiology. A significant proportion of career opportunities in this sector are at degree level. When supported by other appropriate qualifications, the extended certificate in Human Biology will enable progression to higher education to a range of applied science programmes, such as biomedical science, life sciences and physiology.
What Are Lessons Like In This Subject?
Human Biology is ideal for you if you enjoy learning about human body systems, disease or have an interest in pursuing a career in healthcare or medical research. Human Biology develops key scientific skills to support progress to higher education or employment such as problem solving, organisation, research and analytical skills. The course is assessed using a mix of exams and coursework. Lessons are taught by teachers who are knowledgeable and have a passion for their subject. You will carry out investigations as part of the course and carry out independent research.
What Will I Study?
Year 12 Examined Unit:
• Cells, tissues and biological molecules.
• Nervous system.
• Cardiovascular and respiratory systems.
• Digestive and excretory systems.
• Cellular injury and repair.
• Diagnostic techniques.
• Immunity.
• Genetic disorders and diagnosis.
Year 12 Coursework Unit:
• Practical microbiology and infectious disease.
Year 13 Examined Unit:
• Human biology and health issues.
Year 13 Coursework Unit:
• Biomedical science.
*This qualification is currently subject to a process of review and reform by the Department for Education. If there are any changes to this qualification following your interview for a place at the college, we will be in touch to discuss possible alternative, but related, qualifications.
Entry
- Grade 5 in Biology
- Grade 5 in one other Science subject or 5-5 in Combined Science
- Grade 4 in English Language
- Grade 5 in Mathematics
- GCSE minimum point score of 4.5
Qualification
- Extended Certificate
growing digital employment market.
What Are Lessons Like In This Subject?
A range of teaching and learning methods are employed on this course, from teacher-led lecture style lessons to paired and group activity work, practical activities and workshop style evidence gathering sessions. Industry standard software, such as Microsoft Office and Adobe Creative Suite, is available as well as specialist virtual box software, and build computers and networking components for the practical work.
What Will I Study?
The course will include:
• Information Technology Systems (exam)
• Creating Systems to Manage Information (set task).
• Cyber Security and Incident Management (set task).
• Social Media in Business (coursework).
• Programming (coursework).
• IT Project Management (coursework).
• Data Modelling (coursework).
• IT Technical Support (coursework).
Entry
- Grade 4 in English Language
- GCSE minimum point score of 3.5
LAW (APPLIED)
Subject Intent
Law provides a grounding and basis for students to become an informed citizen. Our curriculum helps to develop the Fundamental British values of students by reviewing the rule of Law and how key cases have helped to shape the English Legal system and their impact on society. Through studying Law students also develop individual liberty and mutual respect of others and are able to identify how their decisions can influence decision making.
Our curriculum also enables our students to review different viewpoints from individuals and make informed decisions based on evidence, leading to many careers within the field of Law such as legal clerks, barristers or becoming a judge.
What Are Lessons Like In This Subject?
Throughout the course, a variety of different teaching methods are used to support learner’s knowledge and understanding. The lessons concentrate on varied retrieval techniques and group activities. The subject is taught using legal case law and students use this knowledge to apply to scenario-based activities. Due to the nature of the subject, discussions and debates often occur.
Students maintain a detailed folder of class resources and notes to prepare them both forms of assessment used in this course – report writing and exams. In addition, students can benefit from guest speakers who work in the field of crime and criminal justice.
What Will I Study?
• Dispute solving in the English legal system: resolution, enforcement of civil law, how precedent works, application of the law of negligence, damages.
• Investing aspects of criminal law: legislation, delegated legislation, law reform, European law, legal profession, advice and funding, lay people, elements of a crime, non-fatal offences and sentencing.
• Applying the law: Fatal offences, property offences, general defences, police powers.
• Aspects of tort law: Law of negligence, occupiers’ liability, vicarious liability and land law.
• 50% internal assessment.
• 50% external set task.
• 4 units over 2 years.
Having the skills from Mathematics makes students employable in virtually all careers as it blends communication and problem solving skills together. It also prepares learners for a wide range of destinations in Higher Education and employment as all of the skills taught in A-level Mathematics are transferable in to Higher Education and the work place.
What Are Lessons Like In This Subject?
Lessons start with retrieval practice: previous topics taught are consolidated using quizzes, skills tests, or exam questions. Exemplar models are worked through in the lesson to introduce new topics. Time is allocated to practising skills and application in problem solving. Students are encouraged to engage in discussion to deepen their knowledge. Mini whiteboards, card matching activities, interactive resources and web sites are used in lessons.
Students become proficient in the use of a graphical calculator. Activities such as sketching graphs, solving simultaneous equations, carrying out statistical calculations and much more are performed in lessons on their calculator.
What Will I Study?
The course will include:
• Proof.
• Algebra and functions.
• Coordinate geometry.
• Sequences and series.
• Trigonometry.
• Exponentials and logarithms.
• Calculus.
• Numerical methods.
• Statistics (including data, probability, binomial and normal distributions, and hypothesis testing).
• Mechanics (including vectors, kinematics, Newton’s laws, and moments).
Entry
– Grade 4 in GCSE English Language
MUSIC PERFORMANCE
Subject Intent
Music pervades life and is all-encompassing. The Music curriculum helps students develop, engages them creatively and challenges them in an intellectual sense. We intend to unlock our students’ genuine love of the subject through listening, composition, performing and analysing music from a wide range of styles and cultures helping students develop a greater sense of appreciation of the power of music throughout the world.
It supports the development of a range of transferable skills such as, communication, memory skills, creativity, collaboration and problem solving that students can employ in their next steps whether that be Higher Education or employment.
What Are Lessons Like In This Subject?
BTEC Music lessons are practically orientated; performance underpins everything we do in lessons. Much time is spent in lessons on solo and ensemble performance whilst developing the skills to be a good all-round performer. Unit 1 focuses on the theoretical side of music and how important it is to understand the music we perform. Unit 2 considers how the music industry works and particularly how to plan and take charge of a large music event.
We have a suite of practice rooms which can be used for private practice, instrumental and vocal teaching and developing composition ideas. In addition, we create compositions using a number of industry standard notation software packages. Student performances take place around Sixth Form and within the local community.
Trips to see professional concerts, musicals, and universities are arranged throughout the year.
What Will I Study?
Practical music theory and harmony (mandatory):
• Professional practice in the music industry (mandatory and externally marked). be completed in two weeks.
• Ensemble music performance (mandatory and externally marked). This is a task set by the exam board and will be completed within a set time frame. You will study one other unit, which is often solo performance, but this is dependent on your specific strength.
PERFORMING & PRODUCTION ARTS (ACTING)
resilience and a strong social conscience, exploring ideas in a safe environment.
Through their appreciation and review of live theatre, students develop their analytical and evaluative understanding of their own and others’ contributions and ideas, enabling them to celebrate the richness and depth of human expression in all its forms.
What Are Lessons Like In This Subject?
Lessons in UAL consist of a blended learning approach. Studying a range of practitioners and their key methodologies will enable you to apply your learning to a wide range of practical work. This course has an industry focus, which means we teach you everything you need to succeed in this competitive industry and progress onto higher education, if you wish to.
As a UAL student, you will develop all areas of performance skills, including singing, dancing, physical theatre and stage management. By the end of your course, you will have the necessary skills to plan, market, light and stage your own performance.
What Will I Study?
An introduction to the skills necessary to explore their creative development. Requires the student to apply their skills, knowledge and understanding in a series of production and performance assessments. Students will undertake a production and/or performance role in a performance. An examiner will watch the performance work.
Entry
- Grade 4 in English Language, Merit L2 or GCSE grade 4 in Drama/Acting
- GCSE minimum point score of 3.5
Qualification
Available - Diploma
PHOTOGRAPHY
Subject Intent
Photography offers students a diverse and in depth range of skills from learning how to use DSLRs manually to an in depth experience in the black and white darkroom. Students gain a broad knowledge in critical analysis developing thoughtful and conceptual ideas, expressed in still images.
The curriculum is designed to encourage, practice and develop their technical skillset to develop as photographers and to bridge the gap between technical understanding and creativity. Students are taught professional practices to aid them in further education and employment/self-employment.
What Are Lessons Like In This Subject?
Photography lessons vary in teaching and learning methods and include a combination of practical workshops, 1:1 tutorials and independent project work. In Year 12 the course is structured to develop fundamental photographic skills which include; composition, exposure, traditional darkroom procedures, studio lighting techniques and digital editing using Adobe software. Practical work is informed by contextual research and critical analysis of other photographers work and recorded digitally and in physical sketchbooks. Students progressively explore their own independent photographic interests, selecting themes appropriate for their future career aspirations.
We have a dark room and a wide range of other arts-based specialist tools and equipment to encourage students to explore multidisciplinary techniques. We operate an ‘open door’ policy to allow students to use the equipment and studio spaces independently outside of their lessons.
What Will I Study?
The course will include:
• Composition: How to frame an image and create visually exciting photographs.
• Digital photography: The functions of a digital camera.
• Digital manipulation: Use of Adobe applications to correct and alter images.
• Studio and location photography.
• Darkroom photography: How to use a traditional 35mm film camera and how to develop and print photographs.
• How to present your work creatively in both digital and hand-made sketchbooks.
• How to critique your work and that of others.
• How to best communicate concepts and/or meanings to your viewer.
Entry
– Grade 5 in GCSE Visual Arts subject If a GCSE Visual Art subject has not been studied, a portfolio
– Grade 4 in GCSE English Language of 4.0
In This Subject?
New content is shared in small chunks to support students in their understanding. After the initial explanation, the understanding of the material is then deepened through problem solving, group work and analysing exam questions. Physics is a very hands-on subject so whenever there is opportunity to do so, the learning of new content is supported with demonstrations or practical investigations.
In addition to discovering new material, we will also spend part of our lessons on content that we have already covered. Retrieval practice is the most effective way to ensure that we are prepared for the examination, and this will be a part of every lesson.
What Will I Study?
Year 12
• Waves, including the strange things that happen when waves meet.
• Particles and radiation, including antiparticles, quarks and quantum phenomena.
• Mechanics and materials, including projectile motion and collisions.
• Electricity, including resistivity and superconductivity.
• Practical skills.
Year 13
• Further mechanics, including oscillations and circular motion.
• Thermal physics, including gas laws.
• Fields and their consequences, including electrical fields, capacitors, gravitational fields, orbits, magnetic fields and electromagnetic induction.
• Nuclear physics, our knowledge of the nucleus and its application.
• An optional unit, ‘Turning points in Physics’, which builds on a range of the physics studied in earlier sections.
• Practical skills.
Entry
– Grade 6 in GCSE Physics
– Grade 6 in one other Science course or 6-6 in Combined Science
– Grade 5 in GCSE English Language
– GCSE minimum point score of 5.6
POLITICS A-LEVEL
Subject Intent
A-level Politics enables students to question the structures and systems that shape their lives on a daily basis. The intent of the course encourages student to think critically and form developed arguments grounded in their own knowledge and experience. Politics allows students to gain a deeper understanding of their own country not just as it is today but how it has been shaped by past events, as well as covering aspects of economics, sociology and philosophy.
The course also has strong links to contemporary issues that young people preparing for life outside of the school environment should be aware of such as human and civil rights, individual liberty and the value of a society that values democracy and free expression. Students will also encounter viewpoints both from course content but also their peers that do not align with their own, and will develop the skills to engage with arguments and individuals whose ideas differ from their own in a mature and professional way.
What Are Lessons Like In This Subject?
In Politics lessons, we learn how to form and structure a consistent argument in the form of essays. Lessons are engaging and interactive, and students are expected to keep up to date with political news, both in the UK (United Kingdom) and in the USA.
What Will I Study?
Component 1: UK Politics
• Democracy and political participation.
• UK political parties.
• Electoral systems.
• Voting behaviour and the media.
• Core political ideas: conservatism, liberalism, and socialism.
Component 2: UK Government
• The constitution.
• Parliament.
• The prime minister and the cabinet.
• Relations between the branches.
• Non-core political ideas: nationalism.
Component 3: Comparative Politics: The USA
• The constitution.
• The presidency.
• Congress.
• The Supreme Court.
• Comparative approaches - how do US/UK politics compare?
mental health issues, how to be responsible parents, when to conform and obey others, and what triggers aggression.
What Are Lessons Like In This Subject?
Psychology is the academic and scientific study of the brain, mind, and behaviour. The role of biology, upbringing and culture on behaviour will be explored, and you will gain a greater understanding of why people act the way that they do.
Typical lessons include a range of activities where students work independently and collaboratively with others completing mini white board tasks, exam questions and quizzes, for example.
All lessons involve students being active participants in their learning by taking part in class discussions and sharing thoughts and opinions about topics studied.
What Will I Study?
• Paper 1 Exam - Memory, attachment in children, social influence (conformity and obedience), psychopathology (mental disorders).
• Paper 2 Exam - Approaches in Psychology (different perspectives), biological psychology, research methods used in Psychology.
• Paper 3 Exam - Schizophrenia, relationships, aggression, issues and philosophical debates in Psychology.
Entry
- Grade 5 in any two Sciences or 5-5 Combined Science
- GCSE minimum point score of 5.0
BTEC EXTENDED CERTIFICATE
PSYCHOLOGY (APPLIED)
Subject Intent
The psychology curriculum allows core areas in the history and development of psychology to be studied, and offers different perspectives into the explanations of the human mind and behaviour. Psychology encourages skills to be developed that focus heavily on developing an insight into the methodological strengths and weaknesses of research, and critical analysis of theories, which are useful life skills which can be transferred into the work place. The knowledge gained will help students to develop into well-grounded adults, with an understanding of the causes of mental health issues, how to be responsible parents, when to conform and obey others, and what triggers aggression.
What Are Lessons Like In This Subject?
Psychology is the scientific study of the brain, mind, and behaviour. The role of biology, upbringing and culture on behaviour will be explored, and you will gain a greater understanding of why people act in the way that they do. Applied Psychology involves using psychology in real-life situations and students will enjoy writing their own psychological reports, based on independent research into mental disorders, and conducting experiments. Applied Psychology is particularly suitable for students who are reasonably confident with exams, but also like to support their learning with coursework research type tasks also. Typical lessons include a range of activities where students work independently and collaboratively with others, completing mini white board tasks, exam questions and quizzes, for example. All lessons involve students being active participants in their learning by taking part in class discussions and sharing thoughts and opinions about topics studied.
What Will I Study?
Year 1
• Psychological approaches and applications to gender, aggression and consumer behaviour. Externally assessed exam.
• Conducting Psychological Research: Principles of research, data collection and analysis. Internally assessed written coursework reports.
Year 2
• Health Psychology: Stress and addiction theories and treatments. Externally assessed exam.
• Psychopathology: Definitions of mental illness, types of disorders and treatments. Internally assessed written coursework reports.
*This qualification is currently subject to a process of review and reform by the Department for Education. If there are any changes to this qualification following your interview for a place at the college, we will be in touch to discuss possible alternative, but related, qualifications.
Entry
- Grade 4 in any two Sciences or 4-4 Combined Science
- Grade 4 in English Language
- Grade 4 in Mathematics
- GCSE minimum point score of 3.5
Qualification
Available
- Extended Certificate
RELIGIOUS STUDIES
In This Subject?
Religious Studies is an exciting and challenging subject that provides an outstanding education in thinking and communicating. You will learn to evaluate and argue with precision, skills your future university and employer is looking for. This course gives students an opportunity to ask and consider the ‘big questions’ in life such as, “is there a God?”; “how should we behave and what do the words ‘right’, ‘wrong’, ‘good’, ‘bad’ actually mean?” and “how should Christians practice their faith today”? It also encourages students to reflect on and develop their own values, opinions and attitudes.
We use detailed study packs which we have in class and independent activities. This allows us to spend time discussing, challenging and evaluating ideas, concepts and theories from all aspects of the course.
This enables us to develop essential essay writing skills. The course is enhanced by talks by speakers from universities and religious and non-religious organisations.
What Will I Study?
• Religion: Christianity – religious figures, sacred texts, religious concepts, social and historical developments in religious thought, e.g. who was Jesus? What is God’s nature? Is Christianity relevant today? Christian attitudes to inequality. Religious practices.
• Ethics: Religious and secular theories about morality, e.g. utilitarianism, situation ethics and ethical egoism, and their application to issues, e.g. polyamorous relationships, capital punishment, immigration and animal testing. The debate about free will and determinism.
• Philosophy: Arguments for the existence of God and challenges to them from atheism, science and psychology. The problem of evil and religious responses. Religious experiences and the debate around religious language.
Entry
– Grade 5 in GCSE English Language
– GCSE minimum point score of 4.5
SCIENCE (APPLIED)
Subject Intent
Applied Science is an Applied General qualification for students who want to continue their science education. The course allows students progression onto science courses in Higher Education and jobs in this sector without achieving an A-level qualification in a science subject.
In addition to organisation skills and analytical skills developed in preparation for exams, students will develop skills including how to plan investigations, collecting, analysing, and presenting data and communicating results which support some of the skills students need to progress to higher education, employment, self-employment or training. The qualification can be taken as part of a diverse programme, leaving progression options fully open.
What Are Lessons Like In This Subject?
Applied Science lessons include a mixture of both theory and practical methods. The theory lessons present new knowledge in small chunks with a focus on how to apply your knowledge and incorporate retrieval practice using online tools such as Kahoot and Seneca.
For the practical aspects of the course, you will use equipment such as burettes, volumetric flasks and pipettes to make and test your own solutions, colorimeters and different types of chromatography to test the purity of solutions and components such as diodes, thermistors and LDRs to make and test electrical circuits. You will also venture outside to collect biological data to apply statistical tests learnt in the classroom to real-life situations.
What Will I Study?
You will study topics ranging from cells, atomic structure and bonding to waves and communications.
• Practical scientific procedures and techniques: You will study practical techniques ranging from titrations, colorimetry, calorimetry and chromatography.
• Science investigation skills: your scientific skills including recording and interpreting data and analysing and evaluating scientific findings.
• Applied Science: develop your theory and practical skills.
from careers in the public sector to media and business.
What Are Lessons Like In This Subject?
In Sociology lessons, students engage in a range of learning activities including individual and group work, discussions and quizzes. Students are encouraged to discuss contemporary issues in society such as why people commit crime, or why social class affects educational achievement.
Sociology is a subject that develops critical and analytical thinking skills, so students are encouraged to read, analyse and discuss sociological research and theories.
Students are supported in developing their essay writing and evaluation skills. In addition, the department invites professional sociologists to talk to students about their research into society.
What Will I Study?
• life, childhood, functions of the family, gender roles, and social policy.
• Education: Education policy, theories of the role of education in society, class, gender and ethnic differences in achievement.
• Beliefs: Theories of religious organisations including cults, the relationship between social groups, beliefs and practices, significance of religion in the contemporary world.
• Crime and deviance: Theories of crime, social patterns of crime, victims, prevention and punishment, global crime.
• Research methods: Surveys, interviews, observation, secondary sources.
• Sociological theories: Sociological views such as feminism, functionalism and postmodernism.
– GCSE minimum point score of 4.5
BTEC EXTENDED CERTIFICATE
SPORT
Subject Intent
In this modern era it is important that students understand the importance of exercise and our Physical Education curriculum is designed to enable learners to become confident, resilient and healthy learners; both theoretically and applied practically and encourage a lasting interest in sport and physical recreation. Applied general and A-level routes require students to be metacognitive and self-regulating in their grasp of exercise physiology and each route demands a confidence in applying this knowledge into different roles within challenging environments (for instance, community fitness centres or competitive sport).
What Are Lessons Like In This Subject?
If you have a passion for sport and are potentially considering a career in the sport, health and leisure industries, then this is the course for you. You will study a range of units from anatomy and physiology through to practical sports performance, each one designed to develop new skills and knowledge.
You will be assessed through a combination of coursework, examinations and controlled assessments. Coursework is assignments on practical tasks based on workplace scenarios. Controlled assessments are again tasks based on workplace settings, but completed in realistic, time-based situations. Examinations are tests on specific course content.
What Will I Study?
You will complete a range of units depending upon which BTEC course you choose to study. The list below are some of the key units on the courses.
• Anatomy and Physiology.
• Fitness Training and Programming for Health, Sport and Well-being.
• Professional Development in the Sports Industry.
TEXTILE DESIGN
designers in areas such as the fashion industry, marketing and communications, interior design, and textile art.
What Are Lessons Like In This Subject?
Throughout this course students will have the opportunity to develop their skills, increase their understanding and really experiment with textile design. Students will look at famous artists and designers and take inspiration from their work. They will gather research and record findings by creating mood boards, sketching, drawing and painting.
Students will have the opportunity to work in many different areas of textiles for example, fashion, interior design and decorative art textiles. Students will be allowed the freedom to make decisions about their own work which will encourage independence.
What Will I Study?
• Observational drawing.
• Mark-making.
• Fabric manipulation.
• Embroidery.
• Collage.
• Printmaking.
• Experimental textiles.
• Felt-making.
• Concept building and contextual research.
• Portfolio presentation.
• Time management and problem-solving skills.
• Presentation skills.
Entry
– Grade 5 in GCSE Visual Arts subject If a GCSE Visual Art subject has
– Grade 4 in GCSE English Language
– GCSE minimum point score of 4.0