sixth-form-prospectus-2013 by RidingsFederation

Prospectus 2013-2014

Dear Student,

Let me welcome you to our unique and independent Federation Sixth Form which provides courses for nearly 500 students. You will be able to access a variety of qualifications, including traditional A Levels, the International Baccalaureate Diploma and Vocational qualifications. Further opportunities will also be available to access Level 1 and Level 2 courses. Your time in our Federation Sixth Form will be enriched by your involvement in the international ethos of the Federation through our Community Action Service (CAS) Programme. Importantly, this aspect of Sixth Form life will allow you to become engaged with the local and wider community. This is an exciting time to be joining our Federation Sixth Form with opportunities to access national and international qualifications. During your Sixth Form studies you can expect to be taught by highly qualified teachers who will inspire you and prepare you for Higher Education or employment, either in this country or abroad. We are proud of our high academic and vocational standards locally, nationally and internationally. Student performance in a range of qualifications is a strong feature of our Federation with examination results consistently high. I wish you well in your studies and look forward to welcoming you to our Federation Sixth Form.

www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform for more information

Yours sincerely

Dr R S Gibson Chief Executive Principal

Contents Public Examination Results - 2012 (provisional) Key Stage 4 - GCSE Results

Sixth Form Prospectus | 2013-2014

WIA

YIA

5 or more A* - C Grades (inc. English and Maths)

73%

48%

5 or more A* - C Grades

88%

80%

WIA

YIA

A*/B Grades

47%

26%

A* - C Grades

74%

49%

Overall Points Score per student

856.8

507.2

Average Points Score per entry

215.6

183.0

Key Stage 5 - A Level Results

Key Stage 5 - IB Results

WIA

24+ Diploma Points

94.4%

International Pass Rate

78.16%

A unique feature of the Winterbourne International Academy is its combination of IB and A Level Post-16 courses. 24 points at IB is the equivalent of more than three A grades at A Level.

Welcome by Federation Director of Sixth Form

Key Dates

Ethos

Why study with us?

Course Index

Choosing your courses

Courses Explained: IBDP

Courses Explained: Other Post-16

Courses Explained: The Core

Level 3 Courses

Level 2 Courses

143

Level 1 Courses

155

Student Support

159

Community

161

Finance and Travel

163

Dress and Appearance

164

How to Apply

166

Key Dates

167

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Introduction - making the right decision We are delighted to introduce you to The Ridings’ Federation Sixth Form. Our link means we are able to offer an even wider range of courses to suit the needs of the vast majority of students who wish to continue their Post-16 studies. The Ridings’ Federation Sixth Form promotes a culture which values learning and participation within a purposeful and businesslike environment. In addition to achieving academic success, we aim to work with you to develop your individual skills and interests, enabling you to enter the world as confident, independent, forward-looking individuals. The emphasis is on the active; we wish you to be encouraged and motivated to aim for higher aspirations and achieve greater accomplishments individually, but also as a member of The Ridings’ Federation of Academies, and beyond this as a global citizen. The decision to continue your education beyond the age of 16 is an important one. For many, life in the Sixth Form is at first quite different from their present experience. As an active student you will need to be responsible for the organisation of your work and you will experience more freedom to manage and develop your own interests. You will therefore need to show initiative, imagination and maturity in order to fulfil the aims decided on in consultation with us. It is essential that you receive sound advice when making the decision to enter Sixth Form education and that you discuss the implications with your parents/carers and teachers. The Federation Sixth Form provides the very best in terms of quality provision in the area. Serving up to 500 students we will be able to provide learning opportunities at all levels. We are proud of our International status and all students will be encouraged to engage with local and global communities, most notably through the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). Other Level 3 courses include an extensive range of A Levels and BTEC qualifications, as well as excellent Level 2 provision. Our students progress to further training or employment having gained relevant and appropriate education

www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform for more information

sector skills and qualifications. Access to other creditable and recognised qualifications such as CISCO networking are also available. The range and diversity of courses available for students joining the Federation Sixth Form is excellent, with access to over 50 courses on both sites. As our vision statement ‘Achieving Success through Motivation, Knowledge and Skills’ states, our focus is entirely on the development of the whole student. We aim to ensure that all students are given the opportunity to develop their individual talents and aptitudes both within and beyond the classroom. The Ridings’ Federation Sixth Form is a vibrant, caring and supportive community that equips students with the best possible preparation for their future lives. All community members of The Ridings’ Federation take advantage of opportunities to study and develop new skills, but also form lasting friendships and achieve academic success. Whether you stay for one, two or three years, we are sure your time with us will be enjoyable, challenging and productive.

Claire Giblin and Allan Parris Federation Director of Sixth Form and Acting Head of Sixth Form at Yate International Academy

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www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform for more information

Key Dates 3rd September 2012

Application for entry 2013-14 opens Prospective Sixth Formers and their parents/carers are welcome to visit either Academy at any time. All we ask is that you telephone to arrange a suitable time.

11th and 12th October 2012

Year 11 Transition Day Join with our students to consider Post-16 options

7th November 2012

Prospective Sixth Form Open Evening at Winterbourne International Academy

14th November 2012

Prospective Sixth Form Open Evening at Yate International Academy

21st November 2012

IBDP and IBCC Information Evening at Winterbourne International Academy

21st December 2012

Deadline for first round applications Applications received by this date inform our curriculum model. We construct our timetable around student choice, applications received by this date decide the subjects offered in the 5 pools. Students who apply by this date are therefore most likely to be able to study all of their initial choices.

January/March 2013

Interviews All Year 11 students within Winterbourne International Academy and Yate International Academy will be interviewed at this stage. All other applicants will also be interviewed following receipt of their application form. The interview is designed to ensure you are embarking on the correct pathway in relation to your prior performance and future career plans. Provisional places for those meeting the entry requirements for their chosen courses will be offered at this stage.

23rd April 2013

Years 9, 10 and 11 Sixth Form and Beyond Information and Advice Evening For those Year 11 students who would benefit from further advice and guidance regarding Post-16 pathways and how to apply, and Year 9 and 10 students who are beginning to plan their Post-16 journey.

3rd June 2013

Deadline for second round of applications. Students applying from January to the end of May will need to select options from the pools created following the first round of applications in December.

June-September 2013

Late applications Subject to places being available, applications will be considered until 21st September 2013. Please note that places are limited and early application is advised.

1st and 2nd July 2013

Year 11 into Year 12 Induction days

22nd August 2013

GCSE Results Day

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Our Ethos: Achieving success through Motivation, Knowledge and Skills The motto of The Ridings’ Federation of Academies is “Achieving success through Motivation, Knowledge and Skills” and within The Federation Sixth Form this underpins everything we do. Raising achievement in every aspect of a student’s life is our primary focus, and we seek to facilitate this through the development of learning, leadership and enjoyment. These three aspects are interconnected and together facilitate the raising of achievement. Students are encouraged to take positions of leadership, for example as Head Boy and Girl, House Captains, Mentors for younger students and link ambassadors with Year 7 tutees. Students are also encouraged to develop leadership qualities through the wide range of events and functions on offer, for example the £10 challenge, where students have to devise innovative ways of raising funds, the ideas are wide ranging from cake sales to staff versus student football matches and even a dunk the Academy Principal in the pool event! When students act as leaders they learn essential skills for their future and enjoy what they are doing, and the achievements that result. Enjoyment is also fostered through the various events held by the Student Voice body and through learning in lessons and beyond.

www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform for more information

Our Ethos: Working within the Community ‘As four Year 12 Art students, we were provided with a great opportunity to deliver an Art workshop to 31 Year 1 and 2 pupils at Frampton Cotterell C of E Primary School. We decided that we should teach a lesson that the children would enjoy and that was personal. Having already studied Guido Danielle through our ‘Identity’ coursework earlier in the year, we agreed that Danielle would make an excellent artist to inspire the children - his style of painting animals on to hands is both fun and interesting! We planned the lesson entirely ourselves and prepared some shoes to create 3D canvases on which the children could paint their animals. We made our own examples and also prepared some visual resources of animals in advance. When we arrived at the school we set up the presentation and talked the children through the lesson plan, showing them the examples we had made. We then broke into groups and assisted the pupils individually with painting their base colour and then adding the detail of the animals they had chosen. The children were surprisingly capable and all really well behaved. More importantly, they all appeared to enjoy the experience; some even wanted to continue after they had finished and so painted a second shoe! At the end of the lesson we asked them which their favourite designs were, and what they liked most about them. They were all very proud and wanted to show them off - as a result their teacher decided they would hold an exhibition and invite parents along to look at the work they had created. The creativity and imagination of the children was fascinating and the day’s experience gave us all more confidence to speak publicly.’

Hayley, Nicole, Lauren and Holly - Year 13 students, The Ridings’ Federation Sixth Form

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Our Ethos: Internationalism ‘Our world is a global village’. How many times have we heard this expression in the media? This common phrase points to an idiosyncrasy of the world we live in: a global society in which local issues quickly take on an international dimension , and therefore may have an influence on our daily lives. The Ridings’ Federation Sixth Form aims to deliver the very type of education that will equip our students to adapt to the ever-changing global village in which they live: international education. Our mission statement is twofold: 1 Bring the global dimension into the classroom by offering a dynamic and exciting curriculum supported by a range of international activities throughout the year.

As you read through this prospectus you will find more information on the International Baccalaureate Diploma under the section entitled ‘Courses Explained: International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme’. You will also find more about the internationalism of our Federation Sixth Form on our website www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform.

Federation Sixth Form involvement in International Events The development of international mindedness for all students is important within our Federation Sixth Form. Although particularly a key component for International Baccalaureate students, all students have the opportunity to engage in a variety of global learning activities.

2 Offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma, which provides a holistic approach with a broad range of learning areas, development of research and inquiry skills through its ‘Extended Essay’ and ‘Theory of Knowledge’ components as well as personal growth provided by the ‘Creativity, Action and Service’ element. Our Federation Sixth Form provides a vibrant and exciting learning environment in which students thrive and learn to become excellent communicators, open-minded citizens, reflective and caring students , together with balanced individuals and enquirers. What better way is there to ensure young people entrusted in our care are equipped to find their place in this modern world?

Image courtesy of Bristol Evening Post

www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform for more information

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Why Study with Us?: A summary of strengths Why study at The Ridings’ Federation Sixth Form? Alongside the excellent range of courses available across the Academies, studying at our Federation Sixth Form has many advantages:

As well as academic and personal support, you can also look forward to: Being part of the: • Production of the Federation Sixth Form e-Newsletter.

• You will have a Tutor/Mentor and a Head of Year/Head of Sixth Form to monitor your progress and support you while you study here.

• Mentoring students within the Academies.

• We will set aspirational targets with you based on your ability, and regularly let you know how you are doing, and how you can do even better.

• Developing as a global citizen through international events and activities.

• You will build up good relationships with the staff here who want you to achieve your very best: not just academically, but personally too.

• Making the most of being yourself.

• The Federation Sixth Form has excellent facilities in all departments and specialist staff in every area. • There is preparation for what you progress onto next; including preparation and advice for university application and funding, alongside careers advice if you want to go straight into employment. • There are computer suites available every lesson specifically for Sixth Form use. • You will also have access to the Federation Sixth Form common room, where you can study during study periods, and relax at lunchtimes. On the Winterbourne site there is also a café facility for students. • Both sites have excellent library facilities. • All students have access to ‘EBSCO’ - an online resource allowing you to access the very latest papers and articles on any given topic area. • When you apply, we will give you good advice on what courses are most suited to your strengths and ambitions.

www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform for more information

• Taking part in the weekly BIG QUIZ with the whole Sixth Form.

• Helping to organise the Prom. • Taking part in field trips. • Enjoying a wide range of trips, including a visit to Prague. • Planning innovative ways to raise funds for charities. • Team building activities to build friendships. • Ready, Steady, Cook challenge.

Why study with us? The views of students joining The Ridings’ Federation Sixth Form Having lived abroad for ten years, returning to education in the UK was a big change. Upon joining The Ridings’ Federation Sixth Form I was welcomed by both the friendly staff and students. I feel that as an International Academy, the Sixth Form emphasises the importance of understanding the various cultures of different regions of the world. The teachers here have enabled me to reach my fullest potential in not only my academic subjects, but also in other areas such as leadership. At The Ridings’ Federation Sixth Form, there is not only a wide range of subjects to choose from but also provision for a wider range of opportunities to extend and develop my skills.

Nicola Andrews

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Courses Level 3 courses

Economics SL and HL (Element of IBDP, Level 3)

Further Mathematics (AS/A Level, Level 3)

Applied Art and Design S and D (AS/A Level, Level 3) 32

Economics (AS/A Level, Level 3)

Geography SL and HL (Element of IBDP, Level 3)

Art and Design (AS/A Level, Level 3)

Engineering (BTEC Level 3)

Geography (AS/A Level, Level 3)

Beauty Therapy (Massage) (Level 3)

English SL and HL (Element of IBDP, Level 3)

German SL and HL (Element of IBDP, Level 3)

Biology (AS/A Level, Level 3)

English Language (AS/A Level, Level 3)

German (AS/A Level, Level 3)

Biology SL and HL (Element of IBDP, Level 3)

English Language and Literature (AS/A Level, Level 3) 61

Hair and Media Make-up (Level 3)

English Literature (AS/A Level, Level 3)

Applied Health and Social Care (AS/A Level, Level 3) 86

Environmental Studies (AS/A Level, Level 3)

History SL and HL (Element of IBDP, Level 3)

History (AS/A Level, Level 3)

ICT (OCR Nationals, Level 3)

Italian ab initio SL (Element of IBDP, Level 3)

Law (AS/A Level, Level 3)

Mandarin ab initio SL (Element of IBDP, Level 3)

Mathematics (AS/A Level, Level 3)

Mathematical Studies SL (Element of IBDP, Level 3)

Business and Management SL and HL (Element of IBDP, Level 3)

Business Studies (BTEC, Level 3)

Business Studies (AS/A Level, Level 3) Chemistry SL and HL (Element of IBDP, Level 3) Chemistry (AS/A Level, Level 3) Childcare (Level 3) Classical Civilisation (AS/A Level, Level 3) Computing (AS/A Level, Level 3) Drama and Theatre Studies (AS/A Level, Level 3)

Environmental Systems and Societies SL and HL (Element of IBDP, Level 3)

Film SL and HL (Element of IBDP, Level 3)

Film Studies (AS/A Level, Level 3)

Food Technology (AS/A Level, Level 3)

Forensic Science (BTEC, Level 3)

French SL and HL (Element of IBDP, Level 3)

French (AS/A Level, Level 3)

www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform for more information

Level 2 courses

Mathematics SL and HL (Element of IBDP, Level 3)

102

Psychology (AS/A Level, Level 3)

125

Maths AS over 2 years (AS, Level 3)

103

Religious Studies (AS/A Level, Level 3)

127

Beauty Therapy (VTCT, Level 2)

144

Media Studies (AS/A Level, Level 3)

105

Sociology (AS/A Level, Level 3)

128

Business (BTEC, Level 2)

145

Music SL and HL (Element of IBDP, Level 3)

106

Childcare (BTEC, Level 2)

147

Construction (BTEC, Level 2)

148

Engineering (BTEC, Level 2)

149

Hairdressing (VTCT, Level 2)

150

Music (AS/A Level, Level 3) Music Technology (AS/A Level, Level 3) Performing Arts (BTEC, Level 3)

107 108 109

Philosophy SL and HL (Element of IBDP, Level 3)

110

Philosophy (AS/A Level, Level 3)

111

Photography (AS/A Level, Level 3) Physics SL and HL (Element of IBDP, Level 3) Physics (AS/A Level, Level 3) Political Studies (AS/A Level, Level 3) Product Design (AS/A Level, Level 3) Psychology SL and HL (Element of IBDP, Level 3)

113 115 117 119 122 123

Social and Cultural Anthropology SL and HL (Element of IBDP, Level 3)

129

Spanish ab initio SL (Element of IBDP, Level 3)

130

Spanish SL and HL (Element of IBDP, Level 3)

131

Spanish (AS/A Level, Level 3)

132

Sport Exercise and Health SL and HL (Element of IBDP, Level 3)

133

Health and Social Care (BTEC, Level 2)

153

Sport (BTEC, Level 3)

135

ICT (BTEC, Level 2)

154

Sport Science (AS/A Level, Level 3)

137

Textiles (AS/A Level, Level 3)

138

Theatre Arts SL and HL (Element of IBDP, Level 3)

139

French (NVQ, Level 1)

156

Travel and Tourism (BTEC, Level 3)

140

German (NVQ, Level 1)

157

Visual Arts SL and HL (Element of IBDP, Level 3)

141

Spanish (NVQ, Level 1)

158

Hair and Media Make-up Diploma (VTCT, Level 2) 151

Level 1 courses

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Choosing your courses The Ridingsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Federation Sixth Form is based upon the principles of equality of opportunity and aspiration, we appreciate the individual needs of each student and have developed an entry policy to embrace this. In a move away from the traditional approach of Sixth Forms which state one entry policy for acceptance to their institution, we have developed the following table to guide you onto an appropriate Post-16 pathway. Based upon your GCSE predictions you will be able to see which pathway best suits you and choose a combination of courses from those suggested. We have also included a list of additional courses that are available and opportunities for Creativity, Action and Service (CAS) in which you can partake. It is important at this early stage to consider your wider development as an individual. The concept of Creativity, Action and Service derives from the IB Diploma Programme (see pages 19-24 for further details). At Winterbourne International Academy, CAS has run successfully for a number of years with many benefits to individuals and the community, so much so that it has been extended to all students within the Federation Sixth Form. As part of your CAS you will be encouraged to explore your personal development and take part in local and international service.

How to use this table: 1. Know your predicted grades - these are available on your last progress report (if you are not currently at Winterbourne International Academy/Yate International Academy then please ask your school/Academy for this information). 2. Match your predictions to the appropriate level pathway. 3. Read about the courses available and make your selections.

www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform for more information

Suggested Levels of Compulsory GCSE Predictions qualifications and Core number to be taken Mainly A*- B’s (BTEC Distinction* / Distinction) in all subjects studied (inc English and Maths) Mainly B’s and C’s (BTEC Merit) in all subjects studied (inc minimum of C’s in English and Maths)

4 Level 3 courses (possibly taking all 4 at A2) OR The IBDP

EPQ General Studies

Additional qualifications recommended / to consider

Critical Thinking NVQ Language Playwork

Creativity, Action Service (all students should undertake CAS, it is compulsory as part of the IBDP) The following are examples of some of the opportunities on offer: Playwork course Sports Leaders Award

4 Level 3 courses (dropping to 3 at A2) OR The IBDP

EPQ General Studies

Critical Thinking NVQ Language Playwork

Primary school Mentoring

Post-18 Progression routes

Higher Education Employment and Training

Academy Mentoring programme International school links

3 Level 3 courses (maintained to A2) OR Mainly C’s (BTEC The IBDP OR Pass) in all subjects A combination of 3 studied Level 3 and 2 courses (inc minimum of C’s (NB some Applied and in English and Maths) BTEC Level 3 courses should be considered)

Charity Work Sign Language EPQ or Higher Project

General Studies ASDAN Level 3 NVQ Language Playwork

First Aid

Foundation Degrees

Pyramid Scheme

Higher Education

Wide range of sports Work experience

Employment and Training

Drama and musical productions Maths challenge

5 passes, mainly C’s (BTEC Pass)

2 Level 3 courses (combined with additional qualifications) OR A combination of 2-3 Higher Project Level 3 and 2 courses (NB some Applied and BTEC Level 3 courses should be considered)

A combination of Level 5 passes, C-G (BTEC 2, OR Pass) Level 1 and 2 courses

Higher or Foundation Project

Work shadowing General Studies ASDAN Level 2 or 3 Maths / English resit NVQ Language Playwork

We are also happy to help you develop any further ideas you may have - CAS is Foundation about you! Degrees Further Education Employment and Training

ASDAN Level 1, 2 or 3 Maths / English resit NVQ Language Playwork

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Courses explained: International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme

IB Learner Profile IB Learners strive to be • Inquirers

• Open-minded

• Knowledgeable

• Caring

• Thinkers

• Risk-takers

• Communicators

• Balanced

• Principled

• Reflective

These values are embedded throughout all aspects of the IB Diploma and across The Ridings’ Federation of Academies. The Ridings’ Federation aims to develop responsible global citizens in all students. ‘IB programmes promote the education of the whole person, emphasising intellectual, personal, emotional and social growth through all domains of knowledge.’ International Baccalaureate Organisation, IBO

The IB Diploma is designed to be flexible and broad offering a dynamic and challenging programme of study suitable to prepare you for life and university. This is an ideal choice for those wishing to continue on to university, those not ready to specialise, and for students with a good work ethos wishing to undertake a challenging programme of learning. The IB Diploma Programme focuses on developing the whole person both academically and personally. The specially-designed programme is academically challenging, well-received by universities and offers superb opportunities for the student to participate in events and courses to develop key personal skills and internationalmindedness. These include leadership roles in large international day celebrations and workshops, video-conference events, presentations at local universities and international exchange programmes. Students select six subjects from a range available in order to achieve a well-balanced, broad and thorough academic base. Students will be able to demonstrate their areas of skill through the selection of higher level subjects. It is certainly not an expectation that an IB student should be specialist in all six areas! Select one subject from each of the six Groups: 3 at Standard Level and 3 at Higher Level Want to study two from the same Group? You can select any second subject from Groups 2 - 4 instead of choosing a Group 6 subject Maths not your strong point? You can choose Mathematical Studies Never studied a language? You can learn a new language from scratch - i.e. ‘ab initio’ Group 1

• English

Group 2

• French • German • Spanish • Spanish ab initio • Italian ab initio • Mandarin ab initio

Group 3

• History • Geography • Psychology • Philosophy • Economics • Business and Management • Social and Cultural Anthropology • Environmental Systems and Societies (can be studied as either Group 3 or Group 4)

Group 4

• Biology • Chemistry • Physics • Sport, Health and Exercise • Environmental Systems and Societies (can be studied in either Group 4 or Group 3)

Group 5

• Mathematics • Mathematical Studies

Group 6

• Visual Arts • Theatre • Music • Film OR Choose another from Group 2 - 4

www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform for more information

The Core Creativity, Action, Service Students engage in a whole variety of events and activities throughout the programme focusing on developing their creativity, action and community service. A designated CAS Coordinator supports the students in achieving their individual and group goals, whether this is a fun run charity event, abseil down the BRI hospital, a horse riding competition, Duke of Edinburgh Award or helping at a local primary school. In addition, students engage in joint ventures, such as running a big international day for primary children and a team building activities weekend.

Theory of Knowledge Students attend designated lessons focusing on how they perceive the world, critical thinking and reflection. Students engage in presentations and debates which help prepare them for university, careers and interviews. Students currently at university having completed the IB Diploma have reported that both the Theory of Knowledge lessons and CAS experiences have helped them significantly in their personal and academic life.

Extended Essay An extended essay is completed on a topic of your choice and supported by a designated extended essay supervisor. In addition, students are given one week off timetable to complete their research, including trips to local universities to complete their studies. The extended essay has been particularly useful to those wanting to continue their studies at university in the completion of their dissertation. In addition to the six subjects, students complete â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Coreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; comprising of three elements which aim to develop personal life skills such as confidence in presenting, critical thinking and how to organise events. University and industry representatives have commented that for students who have completed the IB Diploma Extended Essay it has been a valuable aspect of the programme which distinguishes IB students from the rest. Find out more about their thoughts at www.ibo.org

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Why study the IB Diploma? The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme is a high quality internationally recognised qualification undertaken by over 900,000 students in over 140 Countries The Programme offers a broad spectrum of learning areas and a core component focusing on the development of personal life skills suitable for progression to higher education as well as key skills and experience useful in the workplace. If you are not sure what you want to do but enjoy a challenge, then the Diploma Programme is right for you. Students who have selected the IB Diploma at Winterbourne International Academy over the years have done so for a variety of reasons. Some simply did not want to specialise so soon, some wanted to become vets and required Sciences and Mathematics but were not ready to discontinue other subjects they enjoyed, some wished to continue their studies abroad at international universities, some were interested in developing international mindedness, some were keen on the core aspects or prospects of travel and some wanted the breadth and depth of the programme, which is so attractive to universities and the workplace. Whatever your interests and personal skills, you will benefit greatly from the core component. Our extensive international partnerships and video-conferencing facilities enable travel opportunities and a full programme of events and activities to provide a real international experience.

“I wanted to do IB because I have a great interest in diverse cultures and aspire to work abroad with languages some day.” Amie Brillu Ogden, Year 13IB Student

How is the IB Diploma received by Universities?

“IB is well known to us for excellent preparations. Success in an IB program correlates well with success at Harvard. We are always pleased to see the credentials of the IB Diploma Programme on the transcript.” Marilyn McGrath Lewis, Director of Undergraduate Admission, Harvard university

www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform for more information

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The IB Diploma was definitely the right choice for me at Sixth Form. Even with the six subjects and the Core, I have enjoyed every aspect of it. I feel prepared for university and have already received offers from all five universities I have applied for. The IB has helped me learn skills like essay writing and independent thinking which are essential for the future. I now look forward to studying Psychology at Southampton University.â&#x20AC;?

Alena Mogilina, IB Leaver 2011

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Fun and fulfilling The IB Diploma is a recommended programme of study if you are thinking of progressing to university. Students currently at university have reported that the IB Diploma Programme fully prepared them to undertake their Degree with ease. Our students who have completed the IB Diploma Programme have undertaken a whole range of courses at various universities such as: Course

Higher Education Institute

Physics

University of Bath

Veterinary Science

University of Bristol

Mathematics

University of Warwick

Biomedical Science

University of Southampton

Mandarin and Spanish

University of Manchester

Arabic Studies

SOAS

Business Studies (sponsored by LOGIKA)

University of Reading

“Recognised as the leader in international education, the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme fosters the knowledge, skills and attitudes that enable students to excel in university.” IBO Above: Jenny Gregory and Rebecca Whalley, currently completing the Third Year of their chosen degree courses.

“We welcome applicants offering the IB. The qualification provides both breadth and depth of study and it enables us to differentiate candidates very effectively. IB students tend to be extremely well prepared for the independent style of learning expected at university. Lee Hennessy, Deputy Head of Recruitment and Admissions at the University of Bath

www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform for more information

Summary of key findings of recent research conducted by HESA: • 44.2% of IB Higher Education entrants holding 35 or more IB points attended a top 20 Higher Education Institution. • 91.0% of IB Higher Education entrants holding 44-45 points attended one of the top 20 Higher Education Institutions. • IB students go on to be employed in graduate level jobs and in higher paid occupations.

• An assigned Tutor with an international and IB specialism to provide pastoral support • Excellent opportunities through the Creativity, Action, and Service Programme • Video-conferencing facilities to connect with schools and organisations all over the World • One of a handful of Academies to achieve the International School Award ‘Ambassador’ status • Strong relationships with local industry and universities • Career advice and guidance

Why study the IBDP at The Ridings’ Federation Sixth Form?

• Tutorial Programme, personal counselling, learning support and personal skill development

• Winterbourne International Academy is in its’ seventh year of delivering the IB Diploma • A full commitment to internationalism across the two Academies

For further information

• Fully trained and experienced specialist teachers

please contact:

• An excellent record of results • A member of IBSCA • Coordination of network events with other IB Schools • Extensive international partnerships across the world

Mrs. Shelley Swift Federation Head of International and IBDP Coordinator Telephone 01454 822149 E-mail shelley.swift@trfa.org.uk

• A designated international room • International travel opportunities • Events, conferences and excursions • An IB team to provide support throughout the programme

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IB Career-related Certificate What is the IB Career-related certificate (IBCC)? The IB Career-related Certificate (IBCC) is a new unique qualification specifically designed to enhance vocational courses with elements of the IB.

The IBCC framework Learners complete a level 3 vocational course, two IB subjects, an IBCC core and a language component. These elements come together to help students develop key communication and personal skills necessary for success.

• Communicators • Principled

Mechanical Engineering

Forensic Science

Business Studies

Performing Arts

• Caring

Sport

Travel and Tourism

• Risk-takers

Health and Social Care

Diploma Programme Courses Students select any two of the Diploma Programme subjects at Standard or Higher Level that complement their vocational course.

IBCC Core • Approaches To Learning (ATL) Course Learn to think critically and ethically and communicate effectively.

• Community and Service Engage in fun and valuable community events

• Reflective Project

• Inquirers • Thinkers

Select one level 3 vocational courses:

Intellectual, Personal, Emotional and Social Growth

• Knowledgeable

Level 3 Vocational Courses

The IB Learner Profile

Develop research skills with an essay, short film or webpage

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• Open-minded

• Balanced • Reflective

Language Acquisition Options to learn a language from scratch or develop language skills to an advanced level. The IBCC is suitable for any student wishing to undertake a learning programme incorporating both academic and vocational skills. In addition, the IBCC core will develop practical skills and experience relevant to the career choice as well as a language component to support the learner to compete in a global economy. There is a full range of language courses available for any level of language skills including complete beginners and those who are less confident in this area. Below are some suggested profiles: The Mechanical Engineer

The Health Care Professional

The Forensic Scientist

The Personal Fitness Trainer

The Travel Agent

BTEC Mechanical Engineering

BTEC Health and Social Care

BTEC Forensic Science

BTEC Sport

BTEC Travel and Tourism

IB Mathematics

IB Sport, Health and Exercise

IB Chemistry

IB Sport, Health and Exercise

IB Geography

IB Physics

IB Psychology

IB Biology

IB Language of choice

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Life in the 21st Century places many demands on students, enabling students to become self confident. Internationally minded learners must be integral to their education. The IB Career-related Certificate (IBCC) is a new qualification that increases access to an IB education and is specifically designed to provide a flexible learning framework tailored by the school to meet the needs of students and the local community as well as the work beyondâ&#x20AC;?. International Baccalaureate Organisation

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Courses explained: Other Post-16 qualifications A Levels (Level 3)

Applied A Levels (Level 3)

• A Levels are based upon either four or six units of approximately equal size.

There are two types of applied qualifications available within our Sixth Form:

• Half of these make up an Advanced Subsidiary (AS) course, representing the first half of an A Level. The standard of work required is approximately halfway between that of a GCSE and a full A Level. These units are normally assessed during Year 12. Certification of the result means that the subject does not have to be continued into Year 13 and can be discontinued at this stage.

1. A three unit Subsidiary Award, equivalent to an AS Level which is a one year course. However, the qualification will not be awarded until the spring of the following academic year.

• The other units are known as A2, representing the second half of the A Level. These will be examined in Year 13. • Both AS and A2 courses include the opportunity to sit the unit examinations in January and June. Retakes are possible but will need to be funded by students or their parents/carers. • AS and A2 units count equally towards a full A Level award. • Grading is awarded on an A-E (A*-E at A2) scale with a U for a fail, otherwise known as unclassified. • The majority of students follow four subjects in Year 12 and reduce to three in Year 13. It is also possible to continue with all four in Year 13. A small percentage of our students take only three AS levels; however, it is Sixth Form policy not to allow students to take fewer than three AS/A2 Levels in either Year 12 or 13 if following a Level 3 only programme.

2. A six unit Single Award, equivalent to one A Level which is a two year course. Applied GCE’s have the same pass grades as standard A Levels, i.e. A to E (A*-E at A2) with a U grade being a fail. As with A Levels, unit tests may be re-taken but will need to be funded by students or their parents/carers. Other significant features of Applied A Levels include: • Students work on their own and as part of a team; • Students need to be motivated and have good time management skills to ensure they meet deadlines; • Short projects and longer assignments are expected and students may gain experience in the workplace; • The close links that have been established with a wide variety of employers and relevant agencies in the area provide research opportunities. Presentations and seminars are also provided by employers; There will be opportunities to take part in educational visits in the UK and possibly abroad; • Of the three units undertaken each year, two are portfolio based and one is assessed by exam.

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BTEC (Level 2 or 3)

VTCT (Level 2 and 3)

• BTEC qualifications are designed to provide specialist work-related qualifications

• An abbreviation for courses provided by The Vocational Training Charitable Trust.

• BTECs offer learners the opportunity to study programmes that have been developed in consultation with industry and professionals ensuring that the programmes are progressive, relevant and recognised by professional bodies, employers and universities.

• They are specialist work-related qualifications.

• Skills gained through the course process include communication, problem-solving as well as the production of professional level presentations and reports.

• Students follow a modular course with a range of both practical and theoretical assessments. • VTCT qualifications are flexible and can be taken alongside other L2/3 courses. • There are no external examinations

• BTEC qualifications are flexible and can be taken alongside other A Levels and Applied courses. • All BTECs are made up of core and specialist units. • BTECs are assessed using laid down Assessment Criteria; these are translated into assessment tasks which are assessed. • A learner will have the opportunity to receive a Pass, Merit, or Distinction grade for each unit of the programme. • There are no external examinations in BTEC programmes.

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Courses explained: The Core Personal, Learning, Thinking Skills Universities and the world of work seek individuals who have initiative and are adept in a variety of skills. The Personal, Learning, Thinking Skills are essential tools for effective study and achievement in the workforce. Through your subject courses and the Tutorial Programme students will have the opportunity to be: • Independent Inquirers

All Level 3 only students in Year 12 (non IB) will develop these skills through the study of General Studies which is a skill-based course. It encourages thinking across subject specialisms through evaluative study of cultural, scientific and social domains. General Studies will develop thinking and analytical skills, the capacity to construct arguments, communication and presentation skills, all valuable in Higher Education and the workplace. Due to the high value placed by employers and universities on the skills developed through the EPQ, all students will complete the taught element of the programme and be supervised to complete either a Level 2 or 3 qualification. The projects develop important independent learning skills, encourage exploration of a subject of interest to the student and level 3 projects offer UCAS points and in an increasing number of cases, help students secure their places at the university of their choice.

• Creative Thinkers • Reflective Learners • Self-managers • Effective Participators • Team Workers

The Core: For all students Course Name

Time Frame and Time Commitments

Suited to which students?

Course outline

Skills Developed

Assessment method

Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) (Level 3) OR The Higher Project (Level 2).

The taught element runs from September of Year 12, planning begins in February and the project is written in June-August. Final submission will be in October of Year 13. You will be supported by a supervisor through regular sessions during this period.

All students will be supported to achieve this qualification.

Learners will identify, design, plan and complete an individual project based around one or more of their subject areas or an issue that interests them. Previous titles include: ‘Can Science explain the nature of happiness?’ ‘Is graffti art or vandalism?’ ‘Is the media to blame for Islamophobia?’ ‘Should the voting age be lowered to 16?’ ‘An investigation into whether ASBOs are an effective method of solving anti-social behaviour’. Individual projects may contribute to a group project. Learners will agree a project with their supervisor, carry out a production log throughout the process and submit a product including a written element. On completion learners will give a presentation to a non-specialist audience.

Widely valued amongst universities and employers because it develops valuable skills such as the ability to research, manage time effectively, think creatively and critically and evaluate.

Assessment 100% coursework. The completed Production log and Assessment record and the Project product including a written element are the method of assessment. Products may include models, dvds of performances, photos in addition to a written record of between 1000 and 5000 words at Level 3, 500 and 2000 words at Level 2.

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The Core: For all Level 3 students Course Name

Time Frame and Time Commitments

Suited to which students?

Course outline

Skills Developed

Assessment method

General studies A.

The taught element runs through the Tutorial programme. Additional, optional lectures by visiting lecturers are also offered. The AS is usually sat in January of Year 13 and the A2 in June of Year 13.

All level 3 students will follow the programme and be entered for the examinations.

Learners will learn about the following issues: • An understanding and appreciation of the changing nature and importance of culture. • Creativity and innovation. • Aesthetic evaluation. • Beliefs, values and moral reasoning. • Religious belief and experience and connections between them. • Examination and appreciation of ideologies and values in society. • Media and communication. • Political processes and goals. • Relationship between Law, Society and Ethics. • Understanding the nature of knowledge, truth and belief and the distinctions between them. • Analysis of data, information, ideas, opinions and arguments. • Use of the above to examine questions, form values, make judgements and draw conclusions. • Understanding of different kinds of knowledge, appreciating their strengths and limitations. • Use of language to impart knowledge and understanding and present opinions and argument.

General Studies A is designed to complement other studies and will prove to be useful preperation, for Higher Education work and life in general. Through following the specification students will develop their: • Thinking and analytical skills. • Capacity to construct arguments and draw conclusions. • Facility to deal with broad considerations and subject matter. • Communication and presentation skills. • Ability to work both independently and with others.

AS level: 2 examinations of 1 hour and 30 minutes duration each. AS level: 2 examinations of 2 hours duration each (NB Paper 4 includes a pre-release Case Study).

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The Core: Options Students will also have the opportunity to develop skills further through the options listed in the table. We thoroughly recommend all students select an additional course. Due to the timings of some courses it may be possible to select more than one. This will be discussed with you at interview. Course Name

Time Frame and Time Commitments

Suited to which students?

Course outline

Skills Developed

Assessment method

Open University

Begins after AS examinations in May/June of Year 12, worked on over the summer and submitted in October of Year 13. Alternatively courses can be selected that run at other times during Year 13. You will be supported through resources provided by the OU and a supervisor at the Academy.

Level 3 students, particularly those applying for Higher Education.

Learners will select from the vast array of courses on offer with the Open University.

Widely valued amongst universities and employers because it develops valuable skills such as the ability to research, manage time effectively, think creatively and critically and evaluate. There is a section on the UCAS form to acknowledge this qualification.

Varies dependent on which module is selected, usually an essay and/ or short test questions online.

Introduction to Playwork (15-20 places)

10 week course during terms 1 and 2.

Compulsory for all CACHE students and suited to Level 2 or 3 students interested in working with children in a play setting.

Learners will undertake work experience and learn about childcare, the qualification will enable them to seek employment in government run school holiday schemes.

It is a recognised qualification in the fields of childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s play, education, social work and medical settings.

100% coursework / successful completion of placements.

Level 2 Play Work Award (20-25 places)

39 week course delivered after the Academy day in 1.5 hour sessions.

Level 2 or 3 students who would like a more formal qualification and is considering work with children in a play, education, social work or medical setting.

Learners will undertake work experience and learn about childcare, the qualification will enable them to seek employment in a childcare setting.

Accredited by the CACHE providers it is a recognised qualification in the fields of childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s play, education, social work and medical settings.

100% coursework / successful completion of placements.

Critical Thinking

2 hours a week personal study through online learning. There will also be support from a teacher.

Level 3 students with an interest in analysing and forming arguments.

Unit 1: Introduction to identifying reasoning, analysing and evaluating argument, responding to argument and presenting argument. Unit 2: Application of critical skills to the assessment of information and data, and to drawing inferences. Introduction of a range of skills related to understanding and using data.

The course is not content specifc but rather develops analytical, evaluative and personal reasoning skills.

Assessment 100% examination. Two 1.5 hour examinations of equal weighting.

NVQ Languages (French, German or Spanish)

3 lessons a fortnight.

Any student interested in learning a new language or continuing with a language they have already studied at GCSE / Level 1 NVQ but with a business focus.

The course aims to enable students to learn the practical basics of a new language or develop an existing language basis within a more businessorientated context.

Languages are valued in all sectors of education and the world of work, it could open greater opportunities to work abroad.

100% coursework.

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Students from Yate International Academy and Winterbourne International Academy, who successfully completed an Open University module in their own time, are presented with their records of success from Dr R S Gibson, Chief Executive Principal, and Claire Giblin, Federation Director of Sixth Form.

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Art and Design

Level 3 Courses

33-34

French

76-77

Further Mathematics

Physics

115-117

Beauty

Biology

37-38

Geography

79-82

Business

39-42

German

83-84

Chemistry

44-45

Hair and Media Make Up 85

Psychology

Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Play, Learning and Development 48

Health and Social Care

Religious Studies

127

Classical Civilisation

ICT

Sociology

128

Computing

Italian Ab Initio

Drama and Theatre

Law

Social and Cultural Anthropology

129

Mandarin Ab Initio

Economics

56-57

Engineering

History

Mathematics

English

59-64

Media Studies

Environmental

66-67

Music

Film

69-71

Performing Arts

Food Technology

Philosophy

Forensic Science

Photography

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86 87-89

97-103 105 106-108 109 110-111 113

Political Studies

119

Product Design

122

Spanish

123-125

130-132

Sport 133-137 Textiles

138

Theatre 139 Travel and Tourism

140

Visual Arts

141

Applied Art and Design (Single and Double Award) Exam Board OCR

How long is the course? AS - 1 Year A2 - 2 Years

Who is the course for? This course provides an excellent opportunity for students who have a real enthusiasm and commitment for the subject. A key aspect of the course is that students understand and have experience of art and design as a vocation. You will learn from practising artists and designers, through visits, work experience and responding to live briefs set by outside organisations. Professional practice is an integral part of all projects. You will work in a range of materials and have the availability of a dedicated studio room. The course will stimulate your art skills, creativity and imagination, helping you to develop new skills and a process of developing solutions to creative briefs.

How will I be assessed? In the single award you will complete three units each year, in the double award six. Each unit lasts around 14 weeks and you will have feedback through the unit. Two thirds of the units are coursework based and one third externally set assignments. As a vocational course, students will have the opportunity of working in all

areas of art and design: fine art painting, printmaking and sculpture, 2D graphic design, digital media, 3D ceramics building a portfolio of work, which either shows a range of disciplines or demonstrates a specialism in one area. There is a flexibility of choice with a number of units. The coursework nature of the majority of the course allows students to have a clear picture of progress and grades over the year.

What will I be studying? The course incorporates a wide range of flexibly structured units to give candidates plenty of choice to form qualifications specific to their personal aptitudes, interests and ambitions. AS Single Award: Unit 1 Nature in Art: 2D and 3D skills, materials and techniques (portfolio). Working from natural formsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, museum visit, Initial development of skills then more specialist choices for final outcome. Unit 2 Bookcover Design: Communication and meaning through visual language (portfolio); study of contemporary design; visit to bookshop; wide range of research in a variety of mediums; final outcome presentation to client.

AS Double Award: The creative process (examination); Graphic Design (portfolio); Lens-based media and multimedia (portfolio). A2 Single Award: Professional practice and progression (examination); Decorative imagery (coursework); Optional unit choice e.g. Multimedia Specialisms (coursework). A2 Double Award: Students will select from optional units (Spatial Design, Fashion Design, Graphic Design, 3D Design, Fine Art and Textiles), a combination that best suits their chosen future Art and Design career.

What could I do after the course? The course is the ideal preparation for a career in a variety of areas such as Graphic Design, Fashion, Textiles, Advertising, Photography, Interior Design, Theatrical Design, Architecture and Media. Students may enter Higher education directly or via a Foundation course. Entry into employment at trainee level within a range of art and design environments is also possible. Students have also gone on to a range of degrees having gained from the experience and variety of a creative course which has been valued by employers and universities.

Unit 3 Preparing and Working to a Brief (examination) Research leading up to 10 hour exam.

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Art and Design Exam Board AQA

How long is the course? AS - 1 Year A2 - 2 Years

Who is the course for? This course is for students who enjoy being practical and creative. You will have an inquisitive nature, want to develop your art skills and experience a range of different media, techniques and processes; from charcoal to sculpting and digital editing to traditional printing. This course centres on ‘hands-on’ experience as it is the work you produce that counts. Therefore, you need to have the dedication and enthusiasm to realise your creations beyond the confines of class time. This course will allow you to develop your creativity and independence of thought, whilst embracing your imagination to create visually expressive outcomes.

How will I be assessed? In the first year, your coursework accounts for 50% of the AS mark and the externally-set assignment accounts for the other 50% (together 50% of your A Level). The second year is exactly the same, with 25% of the A Level marks awarded for your coursework, which will include

a 1000-3000 word essay and the externally-set assignment, which accounts for the other 25%.

What will I be studying? AS: You will create your first coursework unit on ‘Identity’, where you will explore a range of techniques, processes and media. The aim of the course is to develop your ideas and expertise in working towards creating several substantial images and sculptures. You will be expected to record your research, planning, experimentation and ideas in a portfolio.

‘A chance to express yourself through drawings.’ In January you will be issued with the externally set assignment, where you will have an 8 week period to research, plan and develop ideas. You will be expected to produce developed responses in a range of media and complete within a 5 hour period of supervised time. A2: You will build upon the knowledge, understanding and skills gained in the AS course but with greater depth. The coursework unit is a personal study module where you will develop work in response to an idea, issue, concept or theme of your own choosing, supported

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by 1000-3000 words. In January you will be issued with the externally set assignment, where you will have an 8 week period to research, plan and develop ideas. You will be expected to produce developed responses in a range of media and complete a 15 hour period of supervised time.

What could I do after the course? Being creative is the next big thing. Every good company realises that creativity and good design are important factors in generating new business. Therefore, your creativity is not just a way of satisfying your artistic soul... it can open the door to exciting career opportunities as well. After completing an A Level in Art many students go on to take a Higher Education course in Art and Design, then aim to join the world of advertising as graphic designers, illustrators, typographers, or become painters, sculptors, textile designers, fashion designers, photographers to name just a few. The career opportunities following this course are many and varied and for those wishing to follow a career in Art and Design, this is the first step to a Higher Education course.

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Beauty Therapy (Massage) Exam Board VTCT

How long is the course? 1 year full time

Who is the course for? Students who have already completed and passed Level 2 Beauty Therapy and who are interested in a career as a therapist. Please note there is no requirement to purchase a further kit (the kit used at Level 2 is used again) though students may need to top-up the contents of their kit during the course, depending on the optional modules chosen.

How will I be assessed? A mixture of practical assessments, examinations set by VTCT (taken when students are ready), and assignments set by the Tutor.

What will I be studying? Anatomy and physiology, health and safety, use of facial and body electrical machines and massage. There are other optional modules that can include business skills, aromatherapy, hot stone therapies and further specialist beauty therapy skills.

What could I do after the course? Seek employment in a salon, on a cruise ship or in a spa.

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Biology Exam Board OCR

How long is the course? AS - 1 Year A2 - 2 Years

Who is the course for? Biology is a subject that can provide you with great enjoyment and respect for all things living. It will enable you to acquire biological knowledge and an appreciation of its significance. You will develop many of the topics you have already studied and be introduced to some new exciting areas of Biology in the contemporary world. Biology is a practical science subject, therefore you will develop experimental skills and an understanding of the scientific method. If you are interested in gaining some understanding of the dynamic and exciting nature of biology today, and an awareness of the ethical, technological and economic aspects of this subject, then Biology is for you.

How will I be assessed? AS: 80% examination. Two papers, one sat in January, one in June.

20% Practical Skills Assessment, three tasks taken during the year A2: 80% examination. Two papers, one sat in January, one in June. 20% Practical Skills Assessment, three tasks taken during the year

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;I came to this Sixth Form because it is local to my home and I enjoyed the Academy in lower yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. Edward Spalding What will I be studying? AS: A one-year course, normally taken in Year 12. Students take two content-based units plus one unit of associated practical skills. Topics covered include the study of cell structure, membranes and division, exchange surfaces and breathing, transport systems in plants and animals, biological molecules, diet and food production, health and disease and biodiversity and evolution.

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A2: This is a two-year course in which students must complete the AS course in Year 12 followed by two further content-based units and one unit of associated practical skills in Year 13. Topics covered include homeostasis, the nervous and endocrine systems, functions of the liver and kidney, photosynthesis, respiration, the genetic code and DNA, meiosis and genetics, cloning in animals and plants, gene technologies, biotechnology, ecosystems, population studies, the responses of animal and plants to environmental stimuli. Students also attend a Biology field course to study ecology in Dorset. Students wishing to go on to study Biology at university should choose Chemistry and either Maths, Statistics or Physics as the best A Level combination

What could I do after the course? There are many options available to biologists in the food, drink and biochemical industries, medical and veterinary sciences, forestry and agriculture, conservation, civil service and teaching.

Biology (Standard and Higher Level) Exam Board

What will I be studying?

IBO

The Biology course is intended to give students a broad, general understanding of the principles of Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Human Physiology, Ecology and Genetics. Biological topics are examined in view of their social, ethical and environmental implications; this fosters a coherent understanding of Biology and investigative thinking.

How long is the course? 2 Years

Who is the course for? Any students wishing to pursue Biology related degrees at university such as Biology, Zoology, Environmental Studies or careers in science or health related industries.

How will I be assessed? Higher Internal Assessment 24% External Assessment 76% Standard Internal Assessment 24% External Assessment 76%

The following core topics are studied at both levels: Cells; The Chemistry of Life; Genetics, Ecology and Evolution; and Human Health and Physiology.

or problem, which will enable them to develop their personal skills. At Higher Level, students take further modules including Plant Science, Nucleic Acids and Proteins, and Defence against Infectious Disease.

What could I do after the course? There are many options available to Biologists in the food, drink and biochemical industries, medical and veterinary sciences, forestry and agriculture, conservation, civil service and teaching.

All students must participate in the Group 4 Project - an interdisciplinary activity in which all Science students work collaboratively to analyse a topic

Students on the IBDP Programme will undertake an educational experience that emphasises critical thinking as well as intercultural understanding. As an international qualification the Diploma provides an opportunity for students to go on to study degree courses at universities around the world. To find out more about the IBDP programme please refer to pages 17-24 or contact the co-ordinator at shelley.swift@trfa.org.uk

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Business and Management (Standard and Higher Level) Exam Board IBO

How long is the course? 2 years

Who is the course for? Business and Management is the study of the ways in which individuals and groups interact in a dynamic business environment and the transformation of resources. It examines how business decisions are made and the impact of these decisions on internal and external environments. Business and Management students will want to make sense of the circumstances that drive change in an interdependent and multicultural world, rigorously and critically analysing and evaluating the ideals and ethics of international cooperation, cultural diversity and responsible citizenship.

How will I be assessed? Higher Internal Assessment (2000 words) 25% External Assessment (Two examinations paper 1 is based on a pre-released case study) 75% Standard Internal Assessment (1500 words) 25% External Assessment (Two examinations paper 1 is based on a pre-released case study) 75%

At both levels the assessment can be chosen from any topic in the syllabus. All examinations concider the whole syllabus at the appropriate level

What will I be studying? All students complete a written assessment and study the core curriculum, consisting of: Business Organisation and Environment This includes the nature of business activity, types of organisation, organisational objectives, stakeholders, external environment, planning tools, growth and evolution, globalisation. Human Resources This includes human resource planning, organisational structure, communication, leadership and management, motivation. Accounts and Finance This includes sources of finance, investment appraisal, working capital, final accounts, ratio analysis. Marketing This includes the role of marketing, marketing planning, product, price, promotion, place (distribution), international marketing, E-commerce. Operations Management This includes production methods, costs and revenues, break-even analysis, quality assurance, location, production planning.

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Higher Level students complete extension study in the above topics which includes change and the management of change, organisational and corporate cultures, employer and employee relations, crisis management and contingency planning, budgeting, innovation, project management and also one extension topic; Business Strategy, which includes strategic analysis, strategic choice, strategic implementation.

What could I do after the course? Future careers may include management, retail, marketing, sales, accountancy, research, the civil service and consultancy. It is widely accepted by universities for many diverse courses.

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Business Studies (BTEC National Level 3) Subsidiary Diploma and Diploma. (Equivalent to either 1 or 2 A Levels) Exam Board

How will I be assessed?

Edexcel

This course is 100% coursework or portfolio based, however assessment of each task will be flexible with your teacher. For example, some assessment may take place via the creation of a presentation, a role play scenario equipped with witness statements, small group activities, podcast or video creation, internet research, case study analysis, report writing, event participation along with observer feedback and many more assignment outcomes.

How long is the course? There are two options for the study of this course and to be awarded with a BTEC National. One is to follow the subsidery Diploma route equivalent to 1 full A Level (completing 6 units throughout the 2 years). This can be completed at an AS standard also. Another is to follow the Diploma route equivalent to 2 full A Levels, thereby completing 12 units throughout the 2 years. This is a two year programme.

Who is the course for? This course is for dedicated, flexible and independent learners who have the desire and drive to develop their understanding of the business world. Students must be organised and have the ability to complete coursework or assessments under tight deadlines. Work must be presented in a professional manner with good spelling and grammar delivered throughout. Students must complete all tasks to achieve a pass in the course and must therefore be self motivated to succeed, taking responsibility for their own learning and achievement with the guidance of their teacher.

What will I be studying? This BTEC national is designed to provide highly specialist work-related qualifications in the vocational sector of business studies. The course will give students the understanding and skills that are needed to prepare for the competitive employment sector. The course explores 4 core units giving students an introduction to and understanding for the business environment, management of resources, marketing and communication- all fundamental to the success of business organisations. The core units are then followed by a series of optional units of which the teacher will tailor to the needs of the class. Optional pathways include

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accounting, marketing, management, law, retail, business environment, ethics, and human resources, the number of these optional units depend on if you have chosen to study your BTEC to the equivalent of 1 or 2 A Levels. Students who are interested in the world of work, current affairs and the working of different areas of industry will find this course interesting and rewarding.

What could I do after the course? Students who complete this course may choose to continue with their studies at university (A BTEC qualification is accepted by the majority of Higher Education establishments as part of their entry requirements). Alternatively students may move on to foundation degrees, modern apprenticeships or employment.

Business Studies Exam Board OCR

How long is the course? AS - 1 Year A2 - 2 Years

Who is the course for? This course is for dedicated, independent learners who have the desire and drive to develop their understanding of the business world. Students must be keen to do well in examination situations and have the ability to delve into a company’s strategy through the use of case study analysis.

different departments of a business including the marketing function, the role of accounting and finance, issues relating to people within organisations and the principles of operations management. A2: This is a two year course in which students take the AS course in Year 12 followed by a further two units in Year 13, which are an optional unit and ‘Strategic Management within a Business’. This final unit is a combination of knowledge learnt through the two years and encompasses economic, political issues, global business awareness and social change within businesses of today.

100% Examination. Two examinations at AS level and a further two examinations at A2.

Students are encouraged to understand business from a strategic view and to keep abreast of current business topics to deepen their learning of theoretical knowledge learnt in class.

What will I be studying?

What could I do after the course?

AS: At AS Level there are two units of study.

This course is an excellent and exciting opportunity for any student wishing to enter Higher Education or pursue a wide range of opportunities in the world of business. For example, students will have the potential to become an entrepreneur, general management, work for advertising agencies, accountancy firms, human resources, global marketing corporations, recruitment, and operations management. An endless list of brilliant opportunities!

How will I be assessed?

Unit 1 is ‘An Introduction to Business’: candidates gain an appreciation of the nature of business, learn how businesses can be classified, see what the objectives of business may be and consider other influences on business. Unit 2 is ‘Business Functions’: candidates gain an appreciation of

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Chemistry (Standard and Higher Level) Exam Board IBO

How long is the course? 2 Years

Who is the course for?

practical and investigational skills. All students study the essential (CORE) elements of the subject: Atomic Theory, Stoichiometry, Periodicity, Bonding, States of Matter, Energetics, Kinetics, Equilibrium, Acids and Bases, Oxidation and Reduction, and Organic Chemistry.

Any student who wishes to pursue a career in Medicine must take Chemistry. It is also suited to those wishing to pursue a science-related career. As it develops practical, numerical, problem solving and communication skills, it is valued in many careers.

Within each topic the material is divided into Standard and Additional Higher. The difference in difficulty can be quite considerable. A more in-depth study of two particular aspects (OPTIONS) is also undertaken.

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The facilities and apparatus for experiments are excellentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

All Students must participate in the Group 4 Project - an interdisciplinary activity in which all Science students work collaboratively to analyse a topic or problem, which will enable them to develop their personal skills.

How will I be assessed?

What could I do after the course?

Higher Internal Assessment 24% External Assessment 76% Standard Internal Assessment 24% External Assessment 76%

Chemistry is a prerequisite for many other courses in Higher Education, such as Medicine, Biological Science and Environmental Science. It also serves as useful preparation for employment due to its requirement for organised and logical thought.

What will I be studying? The Chemistry course combines academic study with the acquisition of

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Chemistry Exam Board OCR

realise this and increase the effort on their studies to make a success of Chemistry

How long is the course?

Data analysis

AS - 1 Year A2 - 2 Years

Who is the course for? As well as practical knowledge of the subject, students will develop the following skills:

Producing and interpreting graphs, including using logs, and finding patterns in data.

How will I be assessed? AS - 80% examination. Two papers, one sat in January (30%), one in June (50%). 20% internal assessment.

Practical techniques Students will carry out a range of hands-on techniques and be able to make precise and accurate measurements.

A2 - 80% examination. Two papers, one sat in January (30%), one in June (50%). 20% internal assessment.

Problem solving Students need to think logically and apply knowledge and principles to novel situations.

AS Units Unit F321: Atoms, Bonds and Groups; external exam sat in June 50% of AS marks

Numeracy Mathematical skills are vital to chemistry calculations and students should be comfortable with manipulating equations, and handling numbers in standard form.

Unit F323: Practical Skills in Chemistry 1; A2 Units If students choose to continue chemistry to a full A Level then a similar style of assessment take place in year 13, marks are then combined 50% from AS units and 50% from A2 units

Communication and Team working To be able to express themselves verbally and in written form and defend and justify arguments and opinions. Time management Chemistry is a subject where there is a large difference in demand between GCSE and A Level. Students will need to

What will I be studying?

Unit F324: Rings, Polymers and Analysis Unit F325: Equilibria, Energetics and Elements; Unit F326: Practical Skills in Chemistry 2;

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What could I do after the course? A qualification in the chemical sciences opens doors to a wide range of career opportunities. There are many interesting and rewarding science-based jobs in the lab, outdoors and in other areas you might not have thought of, such as science journalism, patent law and publishing. Along with being a core requirement for medicine, dentistry and veterinary science. The skills you develop while studying Chemistry mean that you can do a whole range of other jobs as well, such as management, sales and marketing, ICT and finance. Chemistry graduates also tend to be rewarded! Recent research by PricewaterhouseCoopers has shown that, on average, Chemistry graduates earn more during their lifetimes than graduates of many other disciplines

‘My favourite subject is Chemistry. While being challenging, it gives the opportunity to work practically as well as gaining academic knowledge’ ‘I chose to attend Sixth Form because I wanted to gain a higher level of skill and knowledge before entering the workplace’

Liam Chambers, Marcus Purnell Chemistry Enrol today 01454 252051

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Childcare - Children’s Play, Learning and Development (including 800 hours of work placement on which the Level 3 Diploma for the Children and Young Peoples Workforce is also assessed) Exam Board Edexcel

How long is the course? Two years

Who is the course for? Students who know they want to work in a childcare setting. Successful completion of this course confers vocational competence, or a “licence to practice” in childcare. The course requires a very focussed and positive approach from students as academic study is supported by at least two days each week in placement. Students must be able to move maturely between the workplace and the Academy, working with a range of adults other than teachers as well as young children, throughout the two years of the course.

How will I be assessed? One compulsory unit is assessed by examination; the other units are assessed internally by Academy staff

and moderated by the board. There is one board-set assignment; all other assignments are written by Academy staff. The Level 3 Diploma for the Children and Young People’s Workforce is assessed through the placement.

What will I be studying? Eleven units of work over two years, plus a work experience placement in a childcare setting (which will be arranged by Academy staff). The units include child development, play in early years settings, children’s development and health needs, health and safety and working with parents and colleagues in early years settings. These units are also delivered to students following the Level 3 Award in Children’s Play, Learning and Development. Students following the Level 3 Certificate will also study children’s communication and languages, personal social and emotional development, child protection, diversity and equality, and reflect on their own practice.

What could I do after the course? Most students completing this course will follow a career in childcare, working in an early years setting such as a nursery (private or state) or in holiday resorts or on cruise ships. Some may become nannies in private homes (normally after a few years experience is gained post-qualification). Additionally, this qualification is currently accepted by some universities for entry to a Foundation Degree, in preparation for a degree in early years teaching or children’s nursing. Students may also consider moving into social work with children or play work.

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Classical Civilisation Exam Board

What will I be studying?

AQA

AS Units Unit CIV 1: Greek Architecture and Sculpture Unit CIV 2: Homer’s ‘Odyssey’

How long is the course? AS - 1 Year A2 - 2 Years

Who is the course for? This course is for students who want to explore the beauty and brutality of two ancient civilisations that have influenced the Western world beyond measure. The course covers a wide range of disciplines including Art, Architecture, Literature, History, Archaeology and Philosophy. Students who want a diverse programme of study and to truly understand what many deem as the dawn of civilisation will leap at the chance to take Classics!

How will I be assessed? 100% Examination - 2 in AS, 2 in A2. Assessment will be by means of structured source-based questions and essays.

A2 Units Unit CIV 3: Augustus and the Foundation of the Principate Unit CIV 4: Socrates and Athens

What could I do after the course? A grounding in the Classics is an advantage for any student who wishes to further their academic career. Universities see Classical Civilisation as a solid A Level, developing and utilising a whole host of academic skills. Study in this subject can lead to careers in Archaeology, Anthropology, Law, Commerce, Research, TV, Journalism, Politics and History amongst a myriad of others.

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Computing Exam Board AQA

How long is the course? AS - 1 Year A2 - 2 Years

Who is the course for? Computing/Computer Science is about designing new algorithms to solve new problems. In this sense Computer Science is no more about computers than astronomy is about telescopes. Many great challenges lie in the future for Computer Scientists to solve. This course, with its emphasis on abstract thinking, general problem-solving, algorithmic and mathematical reasoning, scientific and engineering-based thinking, is a good foundation for understanding these future challenges.

How will I be assessed? 80% Examination, 20% Coursework

What will I be studying? AS Unit 1 - Problem Solving, Data Representation and Practical Exercise The unit involves: • Defining and understanding the stages of problem solving. • Expressing problems as algorithms, flowcharts, pseudo-code, or structured English. • Utilising high-level programming languages such as Pascal and Visual Basic.

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• Describing the various stages of the Systems Development Life Cycle. • Understanding the fundamentals of data representation. Unit 2 - Computer Components, The Stored Program Concept and the Internet The unit involves: • Understanding the relationship between hardware and software. • Looking at the difference between machine code, assembly language, and high level languages. • Understanding the structure of the Internet with related studies into various web based technologies. • Experimenting with web page design. • Exploring the legal, ethical, economic, and social issues related to computing. A2 Unit 3 - Problem Solving, Programming, Operating Systems, Databases and Networking The unit involves: • Comparing and understanding various complex algorithms. • Looking at abstract data types and structures. • Understanding the role of an Operating System with related studies into resource management and virtual machines. • Reviewing database design and the Structured Query Language (SQL). • Understanding various forms of communication such as networking.

Unit 4 - The Computing Practical Project Candidates will investigate a real problem and must take into account user needs. The object of the project is to produce a complete working solution to a problem. They will go through the following steps when producing the solution: • Analysis • Design • Construction/Implementation • Testing • Training • Maintenance • Evaluation

What could I do after the course? This specification has been designed for students who wish to go on to Higher Education courses or Employment, where a knowledge of Computing would be beneficial. They can study Computing and go on to a career in Medicine, Law, Business, Politics or any type of Science.

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Drama and Theatre Studies Exam Board

What will I be studying?

AQA

AS: The AS Course offers a broad, varied experience of theatre, combining scripted performance, response to live productions seen and the study of one text. You will have the opportunity to fully realise a scripted piece in your chosen style of theatre whilst simultaneously exploring a set text and live theatre for the written paper.

How long is the course? 2 Years

Who is the course for? Students who enjoyed GCSE Drama and who want the opportunity to further develop their knowledge and skill within the subject. Students wanting entry to degree level courses, particularly Performing Arts and Theatre courses. Students need some relevant background within the subject to fully benefit from the course.

How will I be assessed? 60% Examination 40% Coursework/Practical

A2: The second year involves the study of two further plays (Pre and post 20th century) in preparation for the written exam, which are again explored through a combination of independent work, practical realisation and workshop sessions. There is also a performance examination involving a devised performance. At the same time as preparing for the written exam, you

A Level Performance and realisation of Steven Berkoff’s adaptation of Franz Kafka’S “The Trial”.

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will work in a group to devise a piece of theatre for your practical examination. Both practical examinations at AS and A2 involve realisation of the work of a Theatrical Practitioner.

What could I do after the course? Entry to many degree level courses and other further education, particularly Performing Arts and Theatre courses. You will also develop skills which will benefit you, offering a wide variety of employment possibilities.

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Drama challenges me and pushes me to new boundaries giving me confidence that I know will serve me well in later life. It also opens up many opportunities such as the enjoyable Sixth Form productions that give students a chance to improve and expand on their skillsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

Hannah Snary - Drama

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Economics (Standard and Higher Level) Exam Board IBO

How long is the course? 2 years

Who is the course for? The Economics course encourages students to develop international perspectives, fosters a concern for global issues, and raises students’ awareness of their own responsibilities at a local, national and international level. The course also seeks to develop values and attitudes that will enable students to achieve a degree of personal commitment in trying to resolve these issues, appreciating our shared responsibility as citizens of an increasingly interdependent world.

How will I be assessed? SL - 80% exam (two papers of equal weighting), 20% internal assessment. HL - 80% exam (Paper 1 = 30%, Paper 2 = 30%, Paper 3 = 20%), 20% internal assessment.

What will I be studying? Economics is a dynamic social science, forming part of Group 3—Individuals and Societies. The study of Economics is essentially about dealing with scarcity, resource allocation and the methods and processes by which choices are

made in the satisfaction of human wants. As a Social Science, Economics uses scientific methodologies that include quantitative and qualitative elements

• Develop an appreciation of the impact on individuals and societies of economic interactions between nations.

The IB Diploma Programme Economics course emphasises the economic theories of microeconomics, which deal with economic variables affecting individuals, firms and markets, and the economic theories of macroeconomics, which deal with economic variables affecting countries, governments and societies. These economic theories are not to be studied in a vacuum—rather, they are to be applied to real-world issues. Prominent among these issues are fluctuations in economic activity, international trade, economic development and environmental sustainability.

• Develop an awareness of development issues facing nations as they undergo the process of change.

The ethical dimensions involved in the application of Economic theories and policies permeate throughout the economics course as students are required to consider and reflect on human end-goals and values. Specifically the aims of the economics syllabus at SL and HL are to enable students to: • Develop an understanding of microeconomic and macroeconomic theories and concepts and their real-world application.

What could I do after the course? Economics will prepare you for a wide range of careers in business and the public sector from accounting to marketing and human resources. It is well regarded as a qualification by universities and employers and can be studied in its own right at university or combined with numerous other subjects.

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Economics Exam Board

How will it be assessed?

AQA

AS: 100% examination, two papers, both sat in June.

AS - 1 Year A2 - 2 Years

A2: 100% examination, two papers, both sat in June.

recession? How can global warming be prevented? How will the growth of China’s economic power affect us in the UK? Why are so many young people unable to get a job? Economics will help you come up with some answers.

Who is the course for?

What will I be studying?

What could I do after the course?

Anyone with a lively mind who is interested in what is going on in the world around them. In common with all A Level courses you will need to be able to research, analyse, evaluate and communicate your ideas.

Economics is the study of the forces which affect our lives. Because people, businesses and countries can never have everything they desire they have to make choices. Economics looks at how these choices are made. You will look at questions such as: Why are some people rich and some poor? What caused the

An A Level in Economics will prepare you for a wide range of careers in business and the public sector from accounting to marketing and human resources. It is well regarded as a qualification by universities and employers and can be studied in its own right at university or combined with numerous other subjects.

How long is the course?

‘It helps you see through the spin and see what’s really happening in the world’

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Engineering Exam Board Edexcel

How long is the course? Certificate = A/S Level equivalent (Year1) Subsidiary Diploma = A2 Level equivalent (Year 2)

Who is the course for? The course is for students who have an interest in Engineering and have studied BTEC First Certificate or First Diploma in Engineering or a relevant GCSE in Design Technology.

How will it be assessed? The BTEC course is 100% coursework and will be assessed continuously through assignments

of core units plus a choice of specialist units. The structure of the course allows you to focus on your interests, such as engineering design, computer aided drafting or electrical installation. Please note that the units studied may vary to meet local or learner needs The BTEC National Engineering enables you to make use of the opportunity to develop a creative approach to problems. You will learn to apply principles of physics for analysis, design and manufacturing of mechanical systems. The Engineering student will develop knowledge and skills in: • Engineering Science and Maths • Business Systems

What will I be studying?

• Testing techniques

The course is designed to be adaptable to your abilities and needs: it consists

• Material properties • Analysis and evaluation

• Communication • CAD/CAM • Manufacturing Processes The course is made up of six individual units including two core units plus four specialist units. The four specialist units allow you to study particular areas in depth. The course is equivalent to 1 A Level. Assessment is largely by coursework

What could I do after the course? Employment opportunities With the international recognition of BTEC courses such as this, you can progress straight into employment or an apprentiship. If successful there are a variety of prospective careers that you can explore, all of which will benefit from your studies, for example: electrician, electronics engineer or mechanical engineering technician. Further vocational and academic qualifications The BTEC National in Engineering has the equivalence of GCE A Levels, and it is possible for you to progress further into higher education, as successful BTEC National qualifications give UCAS points for university applications.

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English (Standard and Higher Level) Exam Board IBO

How long is the course? 2 years.

Who is the course for? If you have enjoyed literature at GCSE Level then you will enjoy it even more as part of your International Baccalaureate studies. English A1 involves the detailed, in-depth reading and exploration of a range of texts, including poetry, novels and plays. The level of study is challenging and will involve you in independent work; you will also have the opportunity to develop a wide variety of transferable skills. English Literature gives students the opportunity to read and analyse an array novels, plays and poetry from around the world. There are two levels to choose from: Higher Level and Standard Level. Higher Level students study 13 works during the course, while Standard Level study 10 works.

How will I be assessed? You will be assessed in the following ways:• One coursework essay (25%) on work studied in Part 1 of the course. • Individual Oral Commentary (15%) on work studied for Part 2 of the course. • Examination Paper 1 - analysis of an unseen literary extract (20%)

• Examination Paper 2 - essay question on the genre and works studied for Part 3 of the course (25%). • Individual Oral Presentation (15%) on work studied in Part 4 of the course.

What will I be studying? Part 1 - Works in Translation (3 works for Higher Level Students, 2 works for Standard Level students) This unit focuses on authors and playwrights from across the world, whose works have been translated into English. You will produce an essay of 1200 to 1500 words on one of the works studied. Works studied include Perfume by Patrick Suskind, The Outsider by Albert Camus, Love in the Time of Cholera by Gabriel Garcia Marquez and The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle by Haruki Murakami. Part 2 - Detailed Study (3 works for Higher Level students, 2 works for Standard Level) Students will study works from three different literary genres. At Higher Level, one of the three works must be a collection of poetry. Works studied include the poetry of John Donne, Twelfth Night by William Shakespeare and Dubliners by James Joyce. Standard Level students will then give a 10-minute oral commentary on an extract from one of the works studied. Higher Level students must give their commentary on one of the poems studied, and also complete an additional interview on another of the works.

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Part 3 - Literary Genres (4 works for Higher Level, 3 works for Standard Level) In this unit you will study works linked by the same genre, such as drama or poetry. This part is assessed in the Paper 2 examination at the end of Year 13. Part 4 - Academy’s Choice (3 works for both Higher and Standard Levels) Students study works linked by a specific topic, and deliver a 10-15 minute individual oral presentation on an aspect of one or two of the works. Works studied include Oedipus Rex, The Great Gatsby and A Streetcar Named Desire.

What could I do after the course? IB English Literature, in combination with the other subjects studied as part of IB, will help you to think critically and insightfully, and express yourself coherently in both speech and writing. These are skills which will prepare you for a wide range of careers and education possibilities. Students on the IBDP Programme will undertake an educational experience that emphasises critical thinking as well as intercultural understanding. As an international qualification the Diploma provides an opportunity for students to go on to study degree courses at universities around the world. To find out more about the IBDP programme please refer to pages 17-24 or contact the co-ordinator at shelley.swift@trfa.org.uk

English Language Exam Board AQA

How long is the course? AS - 1 Year A2 - 2 Years

Who is the course for? A Level English Language involves the detailed, in-depth study of a range of language issues, such as how technology affects the form and structure of language, how men and women communicate differently, how we learn to speak as children, and various academic theories and concepts. You will acquire key analytical skills, learn a variety of new terminology, and investigate the research of various linguists. The course is suitable for anyone who wants to learn about the mechanics of language and enjoys experimenting with words to achieve different effects.

How will I be assessed? AS - 60% examination (one paper, sat in the summer), 40% coursework. A2 - 60% examination (one paper, sat in the summer), 40% coursework.

What will I be studying? AS: Categorising Texts (examination, 2 hours) There are two sections to the paper, Categorising Texts and Language and

Social Contexts. You will learn about how different ways of analysing and grouping spoken and written texts, using various linguistic methods such as lexis, grammar, phonology, discourse structure, pragmatics and graphology. You will also learn about how gender, technology and power relationships influence spoken and written language use, and related concepts and theories. Creating Texts (coursework, 2500 to 3500 words) Using the knowledge acquired in your preparation for the categorising texts examination, you are expected to produce two texts which have different purposes and target audiences. For each text you are expected to write a commentary, explaining how your language choices reflect the purpose and target audience, and evaluating your finished piece. A2: Developing Language (examination, 2 hours 30 minutes) For this unit, you will study two topics, Child Language Acquisition and Language Change. Child Language Acquisition involves the in-depth study of the ways in which children develop the ability to speak, read and write.

has changed since 1700, and the reasons for these changes, such as technological development and changing social attitudes towards writing and speech. In both topics, you will build upon the analytical skills acquired at AS-Level and learn about relevant ideas and theories from language study. Investigating Language (coursework, 2500 to 3000 words). You must choose a language topic which interests you and conduct an investigation into your chosen topic, using appropriate methodology and data analysis skills, and evaluating the effectiveness of your research. You must also produce a media text which presents your findings in a suitable format for a particular audience. For example, if you have investigated the development of childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s speech, you could create a related magazine article for a parenting magazine.

What could I do after the course? English Language helps you to develop analytical, communication and research skills which are integral to a wide range of careers and education possibilities. This A Level is particularly useful if you are interested in studying Linguistics, Psychology, Law, Journalism, education, social work and PR and Media.

For Language Change, you will learn about the ways in which the English Language

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English Language and Literature Exam Board

What will I be studying?

AQA Specification A

Unit 1: ELLA1 - Integrated Analysis and Text Production This unit introduces the combined language and literature analysis by developing your ability to write fluently and coherently using accurate terminology to support your analysis of a set text. You study two set texts, using one as the basis for conventional literary study, and the other as a starting point for a piece of creative language production.

How long is the course? AS - 1 Year A2 - 2 Years

Who is the course for? Students who are interested in communication; who have a love of language and a passion for literature; those who enjoy reading, analysing, discussing and writing. This A Level is about how the words we use in various contexts in life can shape the way we view the world, and the way the world views us. By the end of the course you will have developed your own ability to communicate effectively and with sophistication as well as having learnt about some of our most eminent speakers and writers, from Shakespeare to Barack Obama!

How will I be assessed? There are 2 examinations at AS Level and one exam and a coursework component at A2 level.

The exam is 1 hour 30 minutes and you will enter for the first time in January of Year 12, giving you the opportunity of a re-sit in June if necessary. In the past, texts studied for this unit have included: Property: Valerie Martin, The Kite Runner: Khaled Hosseini, Wuthering Heights: Emily Brontë and A Streetcar Named Desire: Tennessee Williams. Unit 2 ELLA2 - Analysing Speech and Its Representation In this unit, you will study speech in a variety of situations. You will build on your English Language GCSE study of speech by focusing on spontaneous speech and the way conversations work in various situations. You also study a further set text,

‘I really enjoy the social side of the Sixth Form; there is always something to get involved with. English Language has to be my favourite subject as it is really in-depth’ Nicole Copestake

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focusing on the way an author represents speech in a prepared text such as a novel. The exam is 1 hour 30 minutes and you will be required to answer two questions. The first question will require an analytical comparison of unseen spoken texts. The second question will focus on speech representation and stylistic and linguistic issues within the set text, with a short section of the text printed to provide a basis for close analysis.

Unit 4 ELLA4: Comparative Analysis Through Independent Study The final ELLA unit is worth 20% of the A Level and is coursework. You will be given a free choice of question based on two set texts, one of which will be poetry. You will write about 2000-2500 word. Poets studied in the past include: Billy Collins, D.H. Lawrence, Robert Frost and Philip Larkin

Texts studied for this section of the course include: The Lovely Bones: Alice Sebold, Great Expectations: Charles Dickens, Waiting for Godot: Samuel Beckett and Othello: William Shakespeare

What could I do after the course?

Unit 3 ELLA3 - Comparative Analysis and Text Adaptation The first unit in Year 13 focuses on the skill of analysis and takes a production task from the set text A House Somewhere: Tales of Life Abroad: Don George and Anthony Sattin. It is examined by a written Paper of 2 hours 30 minutes.

Students who have studied the combined English Language and Literature course at A Level frequently progress to studying English at university. A qualification in this area forms the foundation for a wide range of careers including teaching, banking, insurance, the civil service, the sciences, publishing and all levels of executive management.

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English Literature Exam Board

What will I be studying?

WJEC

AS Level: Post-1900 Poetry and Drama (‘open book’ examination, 2 hours, 30 minutes) In this unit, you will learn how to explore comparisons and contrasts between texts, establishing links and relationships. You will be also identify and consider how attitudes and values are expressed in texts. You will study the work of two linked poets, such as TS Eliot and WB Yeats, and one drama text, such as Arcadia by Tom Stoppard or Broken Glass by Arthur Miller.

How long is the course? AS - 1 Year A2 - 2 Years

Who is the course for? If you have a keen interest in reading a wide range of literature, and enjoyed English Literature at GCSE level then you will enjoy it at Advanced level. A Level English Language Literature involves the detailed, in-depth study of a range of texts, including poetry, novels and plays, from different literary traditions and eras. The level of study is challenging and will involve you in independent work. The course will give you the opportunity to share your interest with your classmates in discussions, presentations and group work, in conjunction with the more traditional methods of study.

How will I be assessed? AS – 60% examination (1 paper, sat in the summer), 40% coursework. A2 – 60% examination (1 paper, sat in the summer), 40% coursework.

Prose Study and Creative Reading (3000 words) You will submit a folder containing 3 assignments – a comparative piece focusing on two prose texts (authors include Dickens and Austen), a creative response linked to your wider reading of prose, and a commentary on your creative response. A2 Level: Pre-1800 Poetry and Drama ‘closed book’ examination, 2 hours 30 minutes) You will learn about the ways in which writers use and adapt language, form and structure in texts, different interpretations of texts by different

readers, how texts relate to literary traditions, movements and genres, and the cultural and contextual influences on readers and writers. You will study one poetry text in depth (possible texts include Paradise Lost Book IX by Milton), and one Shakespeare text alongside a ‘partner’ play (for example King Lear and Oedipus Rex). Period and Genre Study (2,700 to 3,500 words) You will be required to produce a folder of approximately 3,000 words, which will consist of an exploration of three texts, two of which must be of different periods and genres, one prose and the other poetry. These two should be regarded as the ‘core’ texts, selected for detailed study. The third, ‘partner’ text may be drama, another poetry text or prose text.

What could I do after the course? An A Level in English Literature will demonstrate to employers and places of further education that you are articulate, creative, able to communicate clearly and can think critically. These are qualities needed for a wide range of careers and education possibilities. This A Level is particularly useful if you are interested in the further study of English Literature, Drama, Law, Journalism, Education and PR and Media.

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Environmental Studies Exam Board AQA

How long is the course? 1 year AS or 2 years with A2

Who is the course for? The course is for students who are interested in the environment; how it works and the issues that affect it. This is a thought provoking and inspiring course which may appeal equally to students who are interested in the humanities or sciences. The central theme is the development of an understanding of how different events and cycles within the world interrelate; the impact that humans have and how the impact can be minimised.

How will I be assessed? 100% Examination

What will I be studying? AS Unit 1: The Living Environment Unit 2: The Physical Environment

The Living Environment deals with issues such as Wildlife Conservation, Ecosystems and Land-Use Conflict. The Physical Environment looks at issues such as Global Climate Change, Water and Mineral Resources. A2 Unit 3: Energy Resources and Environmental Pollution Unit 4: Biological Resources and Sustainability Energy Resources and Environmental Pollution examines future problems of energy supply and how these may be resolved. The properties of pollutants are considered to explain the cause of environmental damage. Biological Resources and Sustainability is concerned with the demands placed upon the planets resources and life support systems. Food production and forestry systems are analysed and the sustainability of human lifestyles are considered.

An investigative approach using practical work is used throughout the course. There are numerous practical fieldwork sessions including a trip to the zoo in Year 12 and a residential trip in Year 13. We also have talks from visiting speakers throughout the course

What could I do after the course? This is an academic A Level which shows your ability to evaluate, research current issues and undertake practical investigations. Environmental Studies provides an ideal base for employment, a range of vocational qualifications and a very wide variety of higher education courses, including degrees in areas related to the environment, geography, geology, science, climate, planning, agriculture, conservation and teaching

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Environmental Systems and Societies (Standard and Higher Level) Exam Board

What will I be studying?

IBO

You will study the interrelationships between environmental systems and societies which will enable you to adopt an informed response to environmental issues. You will carry out practical scientific investigations and you will develop skills in critical evaluation of global environmental issues. Topics covered on the course include: The Ecosystem, Conservation and Biodiversity, Pollution Control and Global Warming.

How long is the course? 2 Years

Who is the course for? The course is for students interested in environmental issues. Students will study the interrelationships between environmental systems and societies. The course will encourage students to adopt an informed response to environmental issues. The course is equally relevant for students interested in Science or Humanities.

How will I be assessed? Internal Assessment 20% External Assessment 80% Paper 1 - one hour - 45 marks Paper 2 - two hours - 65 marks

What could I do after the course? This course would be beneficial to careers and Higher Education courses in the Environment, Geography, Environmental Science, Planning and teaching. It also serves as a useful preparation to employment as there is a requirement for organised and logical thought.

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Film (Standard and Higher Level) Exam Board

How will I be assessed?

IBO

SL and HL - 50% External Assessment, 50% Internal Assessment

How long is the course? 2 years

Who is the course for? For any student to create, to present and to study film requires courage, passion and curiosity: courage to create individually and as part of a team, to explore ideas through action and harness the imagination, and to experiment; passion to communicate and to act communally, and to research and formulate ideas eloquently; curiosity about self and others and the world around them, about different traditions, techniques and knowledge, about the past and the future, and about the limitless possibilities of human expression through film. At the core of the IB Film course lies a concern with clarity of understanding, critical thinking, reflective analysis, effective involvement and imaginative synthesis that is achieved through practical engagement in the art and craft of film.

External Assessment Independent study comprising the rationale, script and list of sources for a short documentary production on an aspect of film theory and/or film history, based on a study of a minimum of two (HL four) films. The chosen films must originate from more than one country (25%). An oral presentation of a detailed critical analysis of a continuous extract from a prescribed film (25%). Internal assessment Production portfolio. One completed film project with accompanying written documentation (HL also includes a trailer). Group work: The film project may be undertaken as a group project, but all accompanying documentation must be individually produced.

What will I be studying? Film is both a powerful communication medium and an art form. The Diploma Programme Film course aims to develop studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; skills so that they become adept

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in both interpreting and making film texts. Through the study and analysis of film texts and exercises in film-making, the Diploma Programme Film course explores film history, theory and socio-economic background. The course develops studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; critical abilities, enabling them to appreciate the multiplicity of cultural and historical perspectives in film. To achieve an international understanding within the world of film, students are taught to consider film texts, theories and ideas from the points of view of different individuals, nations and cultures. The IB Film course emphasises the importance of working individually and as a member of a group. Students are encouraged to develop the professional and technical skills (including organisational skills) needed to express themselves creatively in film. A challenge for students following this course is to become aware of their own perspectives and biases, and to learn to respect those of others. This requires willingness to attempt to understand alternative views, to respect and appreciate cultural diversity, and to have an open and critical mind. The IB Film course can

become a way for the student to celebrate the international and intercultural dynamic that inspires and sustains a type of contemporary film, while appreciating specifically local origins that have given rise to cinematic production in many parts of the world. The Film course at SL and HL aims to develop in students the skills necessary to achieve creative and critical independence in their knowledge, experience and enjoyment of film. The aims are to promote: • An appreciation and understanding of film as a complex art form; • An ability to formulate stories and ideas in film terms;

• The practical and technical skills of production; • Critical evaluation of film productions by the student and by others; • A knowledge of film-making traditions in more than one country. What could I do after the course? Film will demonstrate to employers and places of Higher Education that you are articulate, creative, able to communicate clearly and can think critically. These are qualities needed for a wide range of careers and education possibilities. This course is particularly useful if you are interested in the further study of Film or Media, Journalism or PR, or working in the technical side of film or television industries.

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Film Studies Exam Board WJEC

How long is the course? AS = 1 Year A2 = 2 Years

Who is the course for? Film Studies is suitable for students who wish to develop their skills of observation, critical analysis and personal reflection by engaging with a wide range of different kinds of films. Students will also be able to demonstrate their creativity and practical aptitude, either in audio-visual or written form. A variety of forms of assessment are used, with the intention of helping students to become imaginative, active learners.

How will I be assessed? AS – 60% examination (1 paper, sat in the summer), 40% coursework. A2 – 50% examination (1 paper, sat in the summer), 50% coursework.

What will I be studying? AS Level Exploring Film Form (coursework) In this unit, you will learn about the micro features of film - mise-en-scene, editing, cinematography and sound – and how these are used by film-makers to achieve different effects. You are expected to produce a written analysis (1500 words) focusing on the use of two micro-features

in a short film sequence of your choice. For the second part of the coursework, you must create a short sequence – either a filmed piece, a digital storyboard or a written step outline – in which you make use of particular micro features. You will then write a reflective analysis of your finished sequence (750 words)

an annotated research catalogue, a 1500-word script in which you present the main findings of your research project, and a creative piece related to your topic area.

British and American Film (examination, 2 hours 30 minutes)

The focus of this examination is critical understanding and appreciation of film. You will study three topic areas: World Cinema, Spectatorship Issues and a Close Critical Study of a single film. World Cinema focuses on national cinema such as Mexican cinema or Bollywood, film styles such as French New Wave, and topics such as the representation of female empowerment. Spectatorship Issues covers aspects of audience interaction with films such as the history of cinema, different styles of documentary and emotional response.

This examination has three sections: Producers and Audiences, British Films and American Films. In Producers and Audiences, students study the workings of the film industry and how it attempts to cater for different audiences. For both British Films and American Films, you will compare two films in relation to aspects such as their representation of national identity, their narrative structures and their treatment of genre. A2 Level Film research and creative projects (coursework) In this unit, you will be required to carry out a small-scale research project, which is designed to develop research skills. It will be based on one focus film, making appropriate reference to at least two other related films. The films will be linked by a particular topic area, such as social, political or cultural issues, or the representation of gender or ethnicity. The coursework consists of three elements:

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Varieties of Film Experience (examination, 2 ¾ hours)

What could I do after the course? An A Level in Film Studies will demonstrate to employers and places of further education that you are articulate, creative, able to communicate clearly and can think critically. These are qualities needed for a wide range of careers and education possibilities. This A Level is particularly useful if you are interested in the further study of Film or Media, Journalism, PR and Media, or working in the technical side of the film or television industries.

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Food Technology Exam Board Edexcel

How long is the course? 2 Years

Who is the course for?

A2: Following on from AS the A2 course consists of a further 2 modules. Unit 3: Students develop knowledge and understanding of a range of food commodities in relation to nutrition, product development and food innovation.

Students who enjoy investigating, designing and making products. This course covers a variety of topics through both practical, experimental and designing sessions.

Unit 4: Students produce an externally moderated portfolio whereby they develop a sustainable product for a chosen client, they will be expected to interact with their client and work on their feedback to produce an exciting new product.

How will I be assessed?

What could I do after the course?

40% Examination 60% Coursework

Food Technologist, Environmental Health Officer, Food Chemist, Food Consultant, Food Photographer, Hotel/Restaurant Manager, Marketing/Advertising, Dietician/Nutritionist or other medical professional, Home Economist, Catering/Chef.

What will I be studying? AS: Unit 1: Students produce an externally moderated portfolio with three distinct sections demonstrating their creativity and flair when investigating, designing and making products. Unit 2: Students study a variety of elements such as additives, processes, food components, large-scale production, preservation and quality of food in relation to the manufacturer and consumer.

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Forensic Science (BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma Applied Science) Exam Board Edexcel

How long is the course? 1 year â&#x20AC;&#x201C; AS equivalent 2 years â&#x20AC;&#x201C; A2 equivalent

Who is the course for? This course is for students who are well organised, self-motivated but most of all interested in Science and how it is used in the world around us.

How will I be assessed? Assessment is assignment-based and depends on a portfolio of evidence. This includes practical investigations as well as course work you produce e.g. photographs, video footage, computer print-outs, research. Work will be marked by your Science Tutor, followed by verification carried out at Yate International Academy and then checking by Edexcel. There are 3 core units to be studied in Year 12, followed by an additional 3 units in Year 13.

What will I be studying? Year 12 Unit 1 Fundamentals of Science Learners will investigate the quantities necessary in chemical reactions, the structure and functions of cells, the calorific value of different fuels and develop skills in communicating scientific information. Unit 2 Working in the Science Industry The aim of this unit is to enable learners to gain the knowledge and skills that an employee in the science industry needs to be an effective, efficient and safe member of a team. Learners will know communication practices, how laboratories are designed, how information is stored in laboratory information management (LIMS) and how to work safely in a scientific workplace.

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Unit 4 Scientific Practical Techniques The aim of this unit is to enable learners to use a range of practical techniques used in science such as the analysis of substances, the separation of substances and the use of instruments/sensors. The variety of techniques in the content allows the unit to be tailored to reflect the focus of different areas of study, e.g. forensic science, biology, chemistry, physics, electronics and environmental science. Year 13 Unit 22 Chemical Laboratory Techniques The aim of this unit is to give learners many opportunities to prepare, purify and analyse compounds made by reactions and by extraction. There is also a focus on qualitative and quantitative analysis, including analysis of compounds contained within commercial formulations. Unit 18 Genetics and Genetic Engineering The aim of this unit is to develop understanding of the principles of Mendelian genetics and to develop knowledge and practical techniques used in commercial, analytical and research laboratories. This will enable learners to appreciate that genes control all of the characteristics of living organisms. Unit 32 Forensic Evidence Collection and Analysis The aim of this unit is to enable learners to develop skills in using chemical, physical and biological techniques in the collection, analysis and reporting of forensic evidence. The unit also gives an overview of the methods used to present results.

What could I do after the course? This course allows you to follow several pathways e.g. degree courses in associated areas, apprenticeships, employment in a Science related area such as working in laboratory. The skills developed are essential to all areas and are valued by higher education as well as employers.

French (Standard and Higher Level) Exam Board

appropriately in unfamiliar, as well as familiar contexts. Students must be able to adapt their language for different audiences and express ideas with clarity and fluency. It is important that students can structure arguments in a clear, coherent and convincing way.

IBO

How long is the course? 2 Years

Who is the course for? Studying a language Post-16 is for people with a passion for communication and a desire to expand the skills developed at GCSE.

The course comprises the following topics: Social Relationships; Political Institutions, Philosophies and Programmes; International Issues; The Media; Traditions and Conventions in the Arts and Typical or Distinctive Leisure Activities.

What could I do after the course?

How will I be assessed?

Linguists are in great demand due to their ability to communicate and think independently.

Higher Internal Assessment 30% External Assessment 70% Standard Internal Assessment 30% External Assessment 70%

What will I be studying? The main emphasis of the Modern Foreign Language course is on language acquisition and usage. The course focuses on enabling students to communicate spontaneously and

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French Exam Board

What will I be studying?

AQA

How long is the course? AS - 1 Year A2 - 2 Years

Who is the course for? Studying a language Post-16 is for students with a passion for communication and a desire to expand the skills developed at GCSE. Students undertaking this course require at least a Grade B at GCSE.

How will I be assessed? 100% Examination 30% Speaking 70% Listening, Reading and Writing paper

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Learning a language has really boosted my confidenceâ&#x20AC;? They will build up fluency through a wide range of authentic listening and reading material, and small group sessions with a Language Assistant.

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In Year 13, students discuss in-depth topics such as wealth and poverty, the environment, new technology and scientific advances, multicultural societies and a culture topic. This may include studying French literature, French films or a French-speaking region.

What could I do after the course? Linguists are in great demand due to their ability to communicate and think independently. Graduates tend to go into Manufacturing, Business, Law and Teaching. A good subject to combine with Law, Engineering or Business.

Further Mathematics Exam Board

How will I be assessed?

OCR

A2 Mathematics-100% examination: 6 papers, Core 1, Core 2 and Mechanics 1 in January Year 12 . Core 3, Core 4 and Decision 1 in June Year 12.

How long is the course? A Level Mathematics = 1 year A Level further Mathematics = 2 years

Who is the course for? Mathematics is a highly regarded discipline that increasingly underpins contemporary life and is a fascinating subject in its own right. Mathematical expertise provides insight for decision-making in business and industry, and plays an important role in diverse areas ranging from finance, transport and medical science through to digital communications and weather forecasting. Studying Further Mathematics is an excellent preparation for a career in these exciting fields and is regarded almost as a prerequisite for studying Mathematics and other related degrees at the very top universities. Students who study Mathematics need to be resourceful and diligent in their approach to tackling problems. They need to have been very successful at GCSE Mathematics and really enjoy a challenge. Students study A2 Mathematics in the first year and then take the Further Mathematics A2 course in Year 13. Consequently, this course is exceptionally demanding. Students will need to have achieved a high grade A, preferably an A*, in GCSE Mathematics.

A2 Further Mathematics – 100% examination, 6 papers, Further Pure 1, Further Pure 2 and Mechanics 2 in January Year 13. Further Pure 3 and Statistics 1 and 2 in June Year 13.

What will I be studying?

A Level Further Mathematics Further pure 1 – summation of series; induction; roots of polynomial equations; complex numbers; matrices. Further pure 2 – rational functions of graphs; polar coordinates; hyperbolic graphs; differentiation and integrations; numerical methods. Further pure 3 – differential equations; vectors; complex numbers; groups;

A Level Mathematics Core1 – Algebra and functions; coordinate geometry; sequences and series; differentiation; integration

Mechanics 2 – Centre of mass; equilibrium of a rigid body; motion of a projectile; uniform motion in a circle; coefficient of restitution and impulse; energy, work and power.

Core 2 – Algebra and functions; coordinate geometry; sequences and series; trigonometry; exponentials and logarithms; differentiation; integration

Statistics 1 – Representation of data; Probability; Discrete random Variables; Bivariate data.

Decision 1 – The study of networks; linear programming; graph theory; Algorithms. Core 3 – Algebra and functions; trigonometry; exponentials and logarithms; differentiation; numerical methods. Core 4 – Algebra and functions; coordinate geometry; sequences and series; differentiation; integration; vectors Mechanics 1 – Force as a vector; Equilibrium of a particle; Kinematics of motion in a straight line; Newton’s laws of motion; Linear momentum

Statistics 2 - continuous random variables; Normal distribution; Poisson distribution; hypothesis testing and sampling;

What could I do after the course? Many students carry on studying Mathematics at degree level whereas others study a course with a high mathematical content. All students would tend to attend one of the very top universities. Students and employers find the analytical skills developed in an A2 further Mathematics course to be essential in the workplace and actively seek those who study this subject.

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Geography (Standard and Higher Level) Exam Board IBO

All examinations are completed in May in Year 13.

How long is the course?

What will I be studying?

2 years

Who is the course for? Geography is concerned with the study of place, both locally and globally and the questions â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;where, why and howâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; are central to its study at this level. It focuses on the interactions between people and the physical environment in both time and space. It seeks to identify patterns and trends in these interactions and examines the processes behind them. If you are interested in the study of places, both physical and human, and why they are like that, Geography is the subject for you.

How will I be assessed? Higher Internal Assessment 20% Written report based on fieldwork. External Assessment 80% Paper 1 - Core (structured and extended response questions) Paper 2 - Optional Topics (structured questions on 3 topics) Paper 3 - Extension Paper (essay) Standard Internal Assessment 25% Written report based on fieldwork. External Assessment 75% Paper 1 - Core Topics (structured and extended response questions) Paper 2 - Optional Topics (structured questions on 2 topics)

The course is made up of core and optional themes. The core focuses on human geography and the interrelated themes of population change, disparities in wealth and development, patterns in environmental quality and sustainability and patterns in resource consumption. Optional themes are also undertaken at both Higher (3) and Standard (2) Levels and the topics include: Freshwater - issues and conflicts - where you will study rivers landforms and processes as well as the causes, effects and responses to flooding in contrasting parts of the world. Hazards and disasters - where you will study the causes, effects and responses to the following: Earthquakes or Volcanoes, Hurricanes, Droughts and one recent human induced hazard. Urban environments - where you will study the causes of urban change and urban land use in both more and less developed countries. You will also look at aspects of urban stress including urban climates, social deprivation, congestion and crime and have the opportunity to study a city as system and consider sustainable city management.

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Global Interactions - Higher Level students have to complete an additional course on Global interactions which looks at seven aspects of interaction. Fiedwork - You will have the opportunity to develop and evaluate your range of data collection, presentation and analysis skills needed for your fieldwork report. This will include a range of statistical tests to describe and measure relationships between data sources. All students will go on a weekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s field course in Year 12 to enable them to complete their fieldwork report.

What could I do after the course? Geography is beneficial to any career in the environment and also to a wide range of careers, where the skills of analysis and good judgement are integral, including Business, Marketing and Management.

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‘I chose Geography as I enjoy learning about the world and people who live in it. What I find really interesting about this subject is the physical aspect which involves natural landscapes and how they were formed by the earth’s forces millions of years ago. The teachers are fun and show us lots of examples of geographical locations where we then have to study and learn how they got there.’ A student studying Geography at The Ridings’ Federation Sixth Form

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Geography Exam Board AQA Syllabus A

How long is the course? AS is 1 year. A2 is 2 years.

Who is the course for? Geography is concerned with the study of place, both locally and globally and the questions ‘where, why and how’ are central to its study at this level. Patterns and change are key elements of the courses as are issues. If you are interested in the study of places both physical and human and why they are like that geography is the subject for you. Geographers need to be aware of the ever-changing world we live in and the reasons for these patterns and changes. During the course you will have the opportunity to develop your enquiry skills of collecting, presenting, analysing and evaluating data both primary and secondary.

How will I be assessed? AS – 100% examination. 2 papers, Both sat in May of Year 12. A2 – 100% examination. 2 papers, 1 sat in January, 1 in June of Year 13.

What will I be studying? AS Level Paper 1 - In this module you will study two physical and two human topics and in the examination you will have to answer a structured question and piece of extended writing on each topic. You will study the

core physical topic of rivers, flooding and management which includes the study of landforms and processes as well as the causes, effects and responses to flooding in contrasting parts of the world. The other physical topic is coastal environments where a similar approach is applied to the coastal landforms and issues where the sea overlaps the land. Or at Yate International Academy you will study Hot Desert environments and their margins. In this topic you will investigate these unique ecosystems and the factors which affect them including the impact on people living in these areas. You will also study the human core topic of population change which deals with the causes, effects and issues resulting from both natural change, where the demographic transition model is key, and migration. The other human topic is energy issues which again deals with present global issues linked to the exploitation and use of energy. Or at Yate International Academy you will study Health. In this topic you will examine the global pattern of disease focusing on the different health issues between developed and developing countries. Paper 2 - This is a skills module where you will have the opportunity to develop and evaluate your range of data collection, presentation and analysis skills. This will include a range of statistical tests to describe and measure relationships between data sources. The first half of the assessment will be based on either of the core topics of population or rivers. The second half is based on a piece of fieldwork that you have completed where

the question ‘How’ will be key. All students will go on a week’s field course in Year 12 to enable them to complete this section.

A2 Level Paper 3 - In this module you will study four contemporary issues looking at their causes, effects and responses. Appropriate case studies will be used to support your studies. On the physical side you will look at the tectonic issues of earthquakes and volcanoes as well as climatic hazards and change including hurricanes and global warming. On the human side you will study world cities which deals with the issues resulting from urban change in both the more and less developed world as well as the topic of development and globalisation where the case studies of both China and India are an integral part. Paper 4a - This is another skills module where you will have the opportunity to further develop and evaluate your range of data collection, presentation and analysis skills. The first half of the assessment is based on a piece of fieldwork that you have completed where the question ‘why’ will be key. All students will be able use their fieldwork from the Year 12 field course to complete this section. The second section will be based on data provided by the board.

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German (Standard and Higher Level) Exam Board IBO

How long is the course? 2 Years

Who is the course for? Studying a language Post-16 is for people with a passion for communication and a desire to expand the skills developed at GCSE.

How will I be assessed? Higher Internal Assessment 30% External Assessment 70% Standard Internal Assessment 30% External Assessment 70%

appropriately in unfamiliar as well as familiar contexts. Students must be able to adapt their language for different audiences and express ideas with clarity and fluency. It is important that students can structure arguments in a clear, coherent and convincing way. The course comprises the following topics: Social Relationships; Political Institutions, Philosophies and Programmes; International Issues; The Media; Traditions and Conventions in the Arts and Typical or Distinctive Leisure Activities.

What could I do after the course? Linguists are in great demand due to their ability to communicate and think independently.

What will I be studying? The main emphasis of the Modern Foreign Language course is on language acquisition and usage. The course focuses on enabling students to communicate spontaneously and

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”Being taught in smaller groups really helps to boost confidence and aid our learning.” A student studying German at The Ridings’ Federation Sixth Form

German Exam Board

What will I be studying?

OCR

In Year 12, students will build upon the transactional language learnt at GCSE, developing their skills to become more independent users of the foreign language. Students will study, in-depth, the topics of daily life, leisure, media and education. They will build up fluency through a wide range of authentic listening and reading material, and small group sessions with a Language Assistant.

How long is the course? AS - 1 Year A2 - 2 Years

Who is the course for? Studying a language Post-16 is for students with a passion for communication and a desire to expand the skills developed at GCSE.

How will I be assessed? 100% Examination 30% Speaking 70% Listening, Reading and Writing paper

In Year 13, students will further develop their skills to enable them to discuss in depth topics such as the environment, social issues, science and technology and the arts.

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Hair and Media Make-up Exam Board

What will I be studying?

VTCT

There are 8 compulsory units for this course covering a range of advanced make up skills including camouflage, airbrush make-up, fashion and photographic make-up, prosthetics and pastiches. Client care and health and safety are also covered. Optional units allow students to follow their interests (in negotiation with the teacher) in creative hairdressing, bridal hairstyling, fantasy hair for performers or hair extensions. Alternatively there are beauty related topics including self tanning, lash extensions, face and body art, and business related units such as production arts planning, or creating prosthetic pieces and bald caps.

How long is the course? One year full time

Who is the course for? Students who have already completed a Level 2 course in either Hair or Media Make-up, or Beauty Therapy or Hairdressing. This course is for students who are interested in working in the creative side of the hair and make up industry.

How will I be assessed? A combination of board-set examinations which are taken when the student is ready, and internally set assignments. There is a strong practical element to this course and students will also be assessed through demonstrating skills on clients. Please note students will be expected to attend several theatrical or arts performances within the Academy in order to demonstrate they can complete hair and make-up services to a time limit and in a realistic setting.

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What could I do after the course? Students can seek employment in creative industries such as media, television, photographic studios or the theatre. Students are strongly recommended to seek voluntary work opportunities during the course with local theatre groups or dramatic societies, photographic studios or wedding planners to broaden their range of experience.

Applied Health and Social Care (Single) Exam Board OCR â&#x20AC;&#x201C; single award

How long is the course? AS - 1 Year A2 - 2 Years

Who is the course for? Students interested in careers in health or social services. There are aspects of Biology, Psychology and Sociology in the course content.

How will I be assessed? Currently there are 3 modules per year of qualification 33% Examination 67% Coursework (portfolio work) Note that there is a possible flexibility with the above ratio at A2 level. The exam proportion could be higher subject to the A2 units chosen.

What will I be studying?

address health, care and early years within the coursework modules. Students will study three compulsory modules; two are assessed by coursework portfolio and one by external examination. Topics covered are Promoting Quality Care (exam), Communication in Care Settings (portfolio work) and Promoting Good Health (portfolio work). A2: A two year course for which students must complete the AS course in Year 12 and a further three modules in Year 13. These modules may allow a degree of specialisation in health, care and early years. Students will study three modules; Care Practice and Provision (portfolio) is compulsory. The other two modules will be selected based on the majority interest of the cohort and will be selected from: Understanding Human Behaviour and Development (exam), Anatomy and Physiology in Practice (exam) and Child Development (portfolio).

What could I do after the course? This course prepares students to enter a variety of courses in Health and Social Care and related subjects, e.g. Social Work, Occupational Therapy, Nursing and Midwifery. It also provides a progression route for further training whilst in employment.

AS: A one year course normally taken in Year 12. Students will cover modules across the whole spectrum and may

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History (Standard and Higher Level) Exam Board IBO

How long is the course? 2 Years

Who is the course for? This course is for people who enjoy grappling with the key questions and dilemmas that have shaped the world today. Historians have to develop the skills to explain why complex events and changes have occurred in the world and account for the reasons why people see these events and changes in different ways through time. The ability to construct arguments and clearly express yourself is an important quality of a good historian.

How will I be assessed? HL - External Assessment 80%, Internal Assessment 20% SL - External Assessment 75%, Internal Assessment 25%

What will I be studying? The IB History course focuses on European and World History in the twentieth century, giving students an understanding of some of the major issues and events which have formed our current global landscape. The

course develops skills of evaluating and interpreting sources, as well as developing the ability to explain, argue, analyse and construct balanced arguments. Topics covered include: The Arab Israeli Conflict, The Origins of The Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Republic of China, The Emergence of Nationalist and Independence Movements and The Rise and Rule of Single-Party States. In order to develop skills of independent enquiry, students will be required to research and produce an internally assessed historical investigation on a topic of their choice. At Higher Level, students will also take modules on The French Revolution, Napoleon I and Post-Napoleonic Europe to 1852.

What could I do after the course? Apart from being regarded highly by universities as a facilitating subject, the following careers are all possible ways to make use of a History A Level: Education, Law, Research, Writers and Editors, Journalists, Documentary Editors, Producers of Multimedia Material, Archivists, Records Managers, Librarians, Information Managers, Museums, Think Tanks.

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Sixth Form students enjoying their bi-annual Reich tour, Berlin.

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History Exam Board OCR Syllabus B

How long is the course? AS - 1 Year A2 - 2 Years

How will I be assessed? 80% Examination - 2 in AS, 1 in A2 20% Coursework – 1 Assignment in A2

What will I be studying? AS: Unit 1 Historical Explanation - British History. Liberal Sunset: the Rise and Fall of ‘New Liberalism’, 1852–1922. The birth of the UK’s social service state, and the rise and fall of its architects.

Unit 2: Using Historical Evidence Non-British History. European Nationalism, 1815–1914: Germany and Italy. The unification of Italy and Germany in the 19th Century and the effects of this leading to WWI or American Race and Society – Slavery to the Civil Rights movements of the 1960s. OR (These units taught at Yate International Academy) Unit 1 Historical Explanation – British History Russia in Turmoil, 1900 – 1921 Unit 2 Using Historical Evidence – Non British History Protest and rebellion in Tudor England 1489-1601 A2: Unit 3: Historical Controversies Non-British History. Debates about the Holocaust - The study of sources and varying interpretations of the Holocaust. OR (These units taught at Yate International Academy) Unit 3: Different interpretations of Witch hunting in Early Modern Europe 1560-1660 or Different American Wests, 1840 -1900

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Unit 4: Historical Significance. Coursework: A personal study designed by the student on an area of personal interest.

What could I do after the course? Apart from being a regarded highly by universities as a facilitating subject, the following careers are all possible ways to make use of a History A Level: Education, Law, Research, Writers and Editors, Journalists, Documentary Editors, Producers of Multimedia Material, Archivists, Records Managers, Librarians, Information Managers, Museums, Think Tanks.

ICT (OCR Nationals) Exam Board OCR

How long is the course? 1 year for Certificate 2 years for Diploma

Who is the course for? Those studying in preparation for employment in the Information and Communication Technology sector, particularly in job roles where they will be expected to use ICT skills and liaise with users.

How will I be assessed? All units are centre-assessed and externally moderated by OCR. There are no timetabled examinations for this qualification; candidates may complete units at a time that suits the centre. The full award and units from this qualification are graded as Pass, Merit or Distinction.

What will I be studying? Unit 1 — Digital business communication • Developing a thorough knowledge and understanding of communication in a business context • Learning how to use ICT in effective business communications • Understanding document and computer security in the workplace • Understanding the role and contribution of communication technology to business

• Applying a presentation style to documents Unit 2 — Collaborative working • Understanding how collaboration is used in ICT related projects • Planning as part of a group • Investigating the use of ICT tools to support collaborative working • Carrying out research for a group project Unit 3 — Problem solving • Using various techniques to analyse and interpret numerical data • Defining statistical problems, collecting data, using spreadsheets to store and analyse data, presenting data Unit 4 — Creating a digital showcase • Developing an interactive media product to showcase an event or situation • Demonstrating how to specify requirements, design solutions and write an interactive media product. Optional units Non-specialist units Unit 5 Advanced spreadsheets Unit 6 Advanced databases Unit 7 Desktop publishing Unit 8 Career planning for ICT* Unit 9 Work experience in ICT* Creative specialist pathway Unit 10 Digital imaging and photography Unit 11 Digital video Unit 12 Digital audio

Unit 13 Music technology Unit 14 Cartooning and animation Unit 15 Art and animation for computer games Unit 16 Programming for computer games Unit 17 Computer games production Unit 18 Computer games technology Unit 19 CAD/CAM Website specialist pathway Unit 20 Web authoring Unit 21 Hosting and managing websites Unit 22 Databases for e-commerce Unit 23 Web security and regulations Unit 24 Internet past, present and future Unit 25 Scripting and coding for websites Business enterprise specialist pathway Unit 26 Project management Unit 27 e-marketing Unit 28 e-commerce Unit 29 Producing a business plan * Only one of units 8 and 9 will count towards a full award. If candidates choose to complete both, one will count towards the full certificate and the other will be recognised on a unit certificate.

What could I do after the course? This qualification is suitable for those wishing to gain a Level 3 qualification to support further study in FE and HE, or for those wishing to gain a related apprenticeship or employment.

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Italian ab initio (Standard Level) Exam Board IBO

How long is the course? 2 years

How will I be assessed? External assessment - 75% (Reading and Writing) Internal Assessment 25% (Oral)

What will I be studying? Italian ab initio is a language acquisition course designed to provide students with the necessary skills and intercultural understanding to enable them to communicate successfully in an environment where the language studied is spoken. This process encourages the learner to go beyond the confines of the classroom, expanding an awareness of the world and fostering respect for cultural diversity.

Italian ab initio develops students’ linguistic abilities through the development of receptive, productive and interactive skills. The Italian ab initio course is organized into three themes. •

Individual and society

•

Leisure and work

•

Urban and rural environment

Each theme has a list of topics that provide students with opportunities to practise and explore the language as well as to develop intercultural understanding. Through the development of receptive, productive and interactive skills, students should be able to respond and interact appropriately in a defined range of everyday situations.

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Law Exam Board AQA

A2 - 100% examination. Two papers, both sat in June.

How long is the course?

What will I be studying?

AS - 1 Year A2 - 2 Years

AS: The first module, ‘Law Making and the Legal System’, develops knowledge and understanding of sources of Law and the legal system, together with an evaluation of its operation and performance. It includes delegated legislation, staTutory interpretation and judicial precedent, civil courts and alternative dispute resolution, criminal courts and lay people (magistrates and juries).

Who is the course for? Anyone who is interested in studying Law further at degree level, entering the legal profession or just interested in finding out more about how the English Legal System works and areas of Law that are found in everyday life. Lawyers apply the rules of Law to various situations logically and objectively and put forward arguments to support the cases they have chosen to apply. Being able to use Case Law Authority is a skill that will be learnt as well as the ability to critically analyse the current Law and proposals for change.

How will I be assessed? AS - 100% examination. Two papers, one sat in January, one in June.

The second module, ‘The Concept of Liability’, introduces substantive Law and requires simple application of aspects of Criminal and Civil Law. It includes non-fatal offences against the person (assault and battery, ABH, wounding and GBH, and wounding and GBH with intent), criminal court procedures and sentencing; liability in negligence (duty, breach and damage), civil court procedures and damages.

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A2: The first module provides a good grounding in knowledge and evaluation of Criminal Law (offences against the person). It includes the non-fatal offences, murder, voluntary manslaughter, involuntary manslaughter and the defences. The second module includes the Law of Tort and investigation into the concepts of the law. It includes medical negligence, consumer protection, psychiatric injury, pure economic loss, nuisance, Rylands v Fletcher, vicarious liability and defences. The concepts include law and morals, law and justice, fault, balancing conflicting interests and judicial creativity.

What could I do after the course? Entry into the legal professions: Barrister, Solicitor, Legal Executive and Legal Departments in a variety of private and state organisations.

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;I chose Law as there are a lot of opportunities to develop knowledge of how things are dealt with in the real world. There are chances to gain Higher Education knowledge. I came to this Sixth Form as it offered the courses I needed for university and it has a good reputationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;.

Debbie Kumar-Benjamin - Law

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Mandarin ab initio (Standard Level) Exam Board IBO

How long is the course? 2 years

How will I be assessed?

students with the necessary skills and intercultural understanding to enable them to communicate successfully in an environment where the language studied is spoken. This process encourages the learner to go beyond the confines of the classroom, expanding an awareness of the world and fostering respect for cultural diversity. Mandarin ab initio develops students’ linguistic abilities through the development of receptive, productive and interactive skills.

External assessment - 75% (Reading and Writing)

The Mandarin ab initio course is organised into three themes.

Internal Assessment 25% (Oral)

•

Individual and society

•

Leisure and work

•

Urban and rural environment

‘It has taught me about the real world and every lesson we learn something new’. What will I be studying? Mandarin ab initio is a language acquisition course designed to provide

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Mathematics Exam Board WIA: OCR 3890/7890 YIA: AQA 6360

How long is the course? AS - 1 Year A2 - 2 Years

Who is the course for? Mathematics is a highly regarded discipline that increasingly underpins contemporary life and is a fascinating subject in its own right. Mathematical expertise provides insight for decision-making in business and industry, and plays an important role in diverse areas ranging from finance, transport and medical science through to digital communications and weather forecasting. Studying Mathematics at AS or A2 is an excellent preparation for a career in these exciting fields. Students who study Mathematics need to be resourceful and diligent in their approach to tackling problems. They need to have been successful at GCSE Mathematics and enjoy a challenge. Students will need to have achieved a high grade B in GCSE Mathematics.

How will I be assessed? AS-100% examination: 3 papers, Core 1 in January, Core 2 and Decision 1 in June. A2-100% examination: 3 papers, Core 3 in January, Core 4 and either Statistics or Mechanics in June.

What will I be studying? AS Level Core1 – Algebra and functions; coordinate geometry; sequences and series; differentiation; integration

Core 2 – Algebra and functions; coordinate geometry; sequences and series; trigonometry; exponentials and logarithms; differentiation; integration Decision 1 – The study of networks; linear programming; graph theory; Algorithms. A2 Level Core 3 – Algebra and functions; trigonometry; exponentials and logarithms; differentiation; numerical methods. Core 4 – Algebra and functions; coordinate geometry; sequences and series; differentiation; integration; vectors Statistics 1 – Representation of data; Probability; Discrete random Variables; Bivariate data. or Mechanics 1 – Force as a vector; Equilibrium of a particle; Kinematics of motion in a straight line; Newton’s laws of motion; Linear momentum

What could I do after the course? Many students carry on studying Mathematics at degree level whereas others study a course with a high mathematical content. Students and employers find the analytical skills developed in an AS/A2 course to be essential in the workplace and actively seek those who study this subject.

‘I chose to study Maths partly because I need it for what I want to do at university, but also because it is satisfying when you get it right and looks goods on your CV’. Matt, studying Mathematics at The Ridings’ Federation Sixth Form

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Mathematical Studies (Standard Level) Exam Board

How will I be assessed?

IBO

Two core examinations each worth 40%

How long is the course? 2 years

Two pieces of extended investigation each worth 10%

Who is the course for?

What will I be studying?

Algebra, circular functions and trigonometry, statistics and probability, differentiation and integration, matrices and vectors,

Students who study Mathematics need to be resourceful and diligent in their approach to tackling problems. They need to have been successful at GCSE Mathematics and enjoy a challenge.

The use of a graphical calculator is an essential part of this course.

What could I do after the course? Many students carry on studying Mathematics at degree level whereas others study a course with a high mathematical content. Students and employers find the analytical skills developed in this course to be essential in the workplace and actively seek those who study this subject.

Students will need to have achieved a high Grade B in GCSE Mathematics.

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“Maths is fun. It makes me challenge myself.” Jayne Souter - Maths

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Mathematics (Standard and Higher Level) Exam Board IBO

How long is the course?

Students will need to have achieved a high Grade A, preferably an A*, in GCSE Mathematics to do Higher Level, or a B for Standard Level.

2 years

How will I be assessed?

Who is the course for?

Two core examinations each worth 30%

Mathematics is a highly regarded discipline that increasingly underpins contemporary life and is a fascinating subject in its own right. Mathematical expertise provides insight for decision-making in business and industry, and plays an important role in diverse areas ranging from finance, transport and medical science through to digital communications and weather forecasting. Studying Higher Mathematics is an excellent preparation for a career in these exciting fields and is regarded almost as a prerequisite for studying Mathematics and other related degrees at the very top universities. Students who study Higher Mathematics need to be resourceful and diligent in their approach to tackling problems. They need to have been very successful at GCSE Mathematics and really enjoy a challenge.

One option paper worth 20% Two pieces of extended investigation each worth 10%

What could I do after the course? Many students carry on studying Mathematics at degree level whereas others study a course with a high mathematical content. All students would tend to attend one of the very top universities. Students and employers find the analytical skills developed in a higher IB Mathematics course to be essential in the workplace and actively seek those who study this subject.

What will I be studying? Core: Algebra, circular functions and trigonometry, statistics and probability, differentiation and integration, matrices and vectors, complex numbers, induction. Options: Number theory and decision Mathematics The use of a graphical calculator is an essential part of this course.

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Mathematics (AS Level - over two years) Exam Board

How will I be assessed?

OCR

AS -100% examination: Three papers, Core 1 in June Year 12, Core 2 in June Year 13 and Statistics 1 in January Year 13.

How long is the course? 2 Years

Who is the course for? Mathematics is a highly regarded discipline that increasingly underpins contemporary life and is a fascinating subject in its own right. Mathematical expertise provides insight for decision-making in business and industry, and plays an important role in diverse areas ranging from finance, transport and medical science through to digital communications and weather forecasting. Studying Mathematics at AS Level is an excellent preparation for a career in these exciting fields. Students who study Mathematics AS over two years need to be resourceful and diligent in their approach to tackling problems, and may find this longer course more suitable to their ability and ambitions. They need to have been successful at GCSE Mathematics and enjoy a challenge.

What will I be studying? AS Level Core 1 - Algebra and Functions; Coordinate Geometry; Sequences and Series; Differentiation; Integration. Core 2 - Algebra and Functions; Coordinate Geometry; Sequences and Series; Trigonometry; Exponentials and Logarithms; Differentiation; Integration. Statistics 1 - Representation of Data; Probability; Discrete Random Variables; Bivariate Data.

What could I do after the course? Students and employers find the analytical skills developed in an AS course to be essential in the workplace and actively seek those who study this subject. Many degree courses have a large Mathematics content and students will be using their acquired skills in a variety of situations.

Students need to achieve at least a grade B on the higher GCSE course.

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Media Studies Exam Board AQA

How long is the course? AS - 1 Year A2 - 2 Years

Who is the course for? Media Studies is a fascinating course which encourages students to question the world around them. It is a multi-million pound industry and plays a pivotal role in all aspects of both work and social life. Media Studies is a creative course which allows students to design and develop their own products. Students will need to have an interest in developing skills in photography, photo editing, filming, film editing, web-design, journalism, magazine design and advertising construction.

How will I be assessed? AS 50% Coursework - Two fully realised Media products created based on a brief chosen individually from a selection of 3. 50% Examination - External written examination split into two areas, applying media knowledge to an unseen media product and essay on the cross-media topic Film Fiction.

A2 50% Coursework - A fully realised independently selected media product with a linked written investigation into a key issue within the media 50% Examination - External written examination split into two areas, applying media theory to an unseen media product and essay on a previously selected independent study area.

What will I be studying? AS: Students will explore key concepts in the ways media, such as television, radio, film, the internet and newspapers, represent reality. There are two modules: Investigating Media, dealing with a variety of media and media products (written exam) and Creating Media, in which students produce their own media projects (coursework). A2: Students must follow the AS course in Year 12 and take two further modules in Year 13: Critical Perspectives, dealing with ethical and social issues relating to the mass media (written exam) and Research and Production, for which students do an investigation and a linked production piece (coursework).

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What could I do after the course? The course offers students the ability to develop a variety of media skills, which are useful to students interested in pursuing a media industry based career or a career in many other industries, transferable skills include web design, advertising and marketing, presentation design and directing. Media Studies is also valuable to any career requiring analytical thought, personal communication skills and understanding of communications media, such as Teaching, Law, Media and Public Relations.

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Music (Standard and Higher Level) Exam Board IBO

How long is the course? 2 years

Who is the course for? Students who have reached a high level of technical ability on an instrument and/ or enjoy composing at a high level. Since the range of options for IB Music is vast there is an option for everyone. Please note, if you intend to study Music at university it is recommended that you study A Level Music as IB provides a lot of breadth but not as much depth as A Level.

25% = Musical Investigation comparing music from two different cultures Standard Level Composition 50% = 10 minute composition portfolio 25% = Listening examination on any area of music and two set works which change every two years 25% = Musical Investigation comparing music from two different cultures

Standard Level Performance 50% = 15 minute solo recital

25% = Musical Investigation comparing music from two different cultures

25% = Listening examination on any area of music and two set works which change every two years

What will I be studying?

25% = Listening examination on any area of music and two set works which change every 2 years

As well as being able to access the full range of HE Music degrees, students will also have developed a range of skills useful for working in the Music industry or other business environments.

25% = 15 minute composition portfolio

How will I be assessed?

Standard Level Group Performance 50% = 15 minute ensemble recital

What could I do after the course?

Higher Level 25% = 20 minute solo recital

25% = Listening examination on any area of music and two set works which change every two years

25% = Musical Investigation comparing music from two different cultures

Western and Non-Western styles, and a Musical Investigation into the relationship between two identifiable and distinct musical cultures.

The Music course aims to encourage students to develop an understanding and knowledge of music from around the world. It will provide an opportunity for students to develop their own creative potential through composition and performance, as well as developing analytical and aural skills. All students will undertake a module in Musical Perception and Analysis in

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Music Exam Board AQA

How long is the course? AS - 1 Year A2 - 2 Years

Who is the course for? Students who have a high level of ability on an instrument or as a singer (equivalent to grade 4). Students that have a broad musical understanding and interest.

How will I be assessed?

MUSC6: One performance lasting 10-16 minutes assessed under informal conditions

What will I be studying? MUSC1: Beethoven Symphony No 1, The Musical up to 1980, Music from any style and genre MUSC2: Bach Chorales, Writing a piano accompaniment, techniques in harmony, cadences, modulation, melody composition, controlling texture MUSC3: Developing performance skills

MUSC1: 2 hour listening examination in three sections (a) Set Works - Beethoven Symphony No 1 (b) Historical Study c) general aural

MUSC4: Elgar Symphony No 1 or Shostakovich Symphony No 5, English Choral Music in the 20th Century, Music from any style and genre

MUSC2: 20 hour controlled coursework, choice of 3 briefs (a) Compositional techniques exercises (b) Free composition (c) Arranging

MUSC5: as MUSC2 but also including post tonal composition

MUSC3: Two performances each 5-8 minutes assessed under informal conditions

What could I do after the course?

MUSC4: 2 hour listening examination in three sections as MUSC1 MUSC5: 20 hour controlled coursework as MUSC2

MUSC6: as MUSC3

Higher Education degrees in Music, Music Technology, Musicology, Composition, Performance, Music Therapy, Arts Administration, Teaching (instrumental and classroom), Events Management.

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Music Technology Exam Board

What will I be studying?

Edexcel

AS: Students will use sequencing, arranging and recording skills to create a CD portfolio of their skills. They will then be required to sit an exam about popular music since 1910 including the developments in Music Technology.

How long is the course? AS - 1 Year A2 - 2 Years

Who is the course for? Students who have a practical interest in the recording and producing side of the music industry. It is expected that students will have competent working knowledge of an instrument and basic keyboard skills.

How will I be assessed? Portfolio 1: (60 hours controlled coursework) A sequence of a piece of music specified by the exam board, a recording of your own choice and an arrangement of a piece specified by the board.

A2: Students will use sequencing, composing and recording skills to create a CD portfolio of their skills. They will also sit an exam in which they analyse recordings and music technological processes and then complete a practical recording exam.

What could I do after the course? Higher Education degrees in Music Technology, Composition, Arts Administration, Teaching (Instrumental and Classroom), Events Management and Sound Engineering.

Listening and Analysing examination on popular music since 1910 including the developments in Music Technology. Portfolio 2: (60 hours controlled coursework) in the same structure as portfolio 1.

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Performing Arts BTEC Exam Board

How will I be assessed?

What could I do after the course?

Edexcel

All assessment is internal. Students will complete 6 units over a 2-year course. Written notes and video evidence will support production work performed to live audiences. There will be constant teacher feedback, directorial notes and audience responses, too. Students are encouraged to attend one-to-one Tutorials to monitor progress.

Progression to college or drama school to follow additional specialist learning, for example, through another BTEC qualification, or to degree level at university.

How long is the course? 2 years. However, a one-year 3 unit AS level equivalent may be taken.

Who is the course for? Students who are clear about the area of employment that they wish to enter â&#x20AC;&#x201C; i.e the performing arts. The programme of studies offers great flexibility and a choice of emphasis through a range of optional units. If acting is the major interest, then acting skills and techniques can be pursued through all units. However, devising, directing or writing are other avenues that may be explored.

What will I be studying? A wide range of disciplines. The core unit is concerned with performing to an audience. Others include devising plays, physical theatre, theatre for children, theatre in education, drama improvisation, script writing and musical theatre. And there are many more!

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Philosophy (Standard and Higher Level) Exam Board IBO

How long is the course? 2 years

Who is the course for? The emphasis of the Philosophy course is very much on “doing” Philosophy. Doing Philosophy requires a willingness to attempt an understanding of alternative views by applying intellectual rigour and cultivating an open and critical mind. It also invites the development of perspectives that encompass cultural pluralism and an awareness of the international context within which it unfolds. This constitutes a new challenge for students doing Philosophy within a worldwide perspective—an important feature that is reflected in the themes and activities of the course.

How will I be assessed? HL - 80% External Assessment (over 3 papers), 20% Internal Assessment

to be inclusive and to deal with a wide range of issues that can be approached in a philosophical way. A concern with clarity of understanding lies at the core of the Philosophy course. This clarity is achieved through critical and systematic thinking, careful analysis of arguments, the study of philosophical themes and a close reading of texts. Through this examination of themes and texts, the Philosophy course allows students to explore fundamental questions that people have asked throughout human history. For example: What is it to be a human being? How do I know what is the right thing to do? Moreover, it confronts new problems arising within contemporary society, including those that result from increasing international interaction. The aims of the Philosophy course at HL and SL are to enable students to: • Develop an intellectually independent and creative way of thinking

SL - 70% External Assessment (over 2 papers), 30% Internal Assessment

• Relate their philosophical understanding to other disciplines and to personal, social and civic life

What will I be studying?

• Formulate arguments in a sound and purposeful way

Philosophy deals with issues that are profound, complex, challenging and important for humanity. The Diploma Programme Philosophy course aims

• Examine critically their own experience and their ideological and cultural perspectives

• Appreciate the diversity of philosophical thinking • Appreciate the impact of cultural diversity upon philosophical thinking.

What could I do after the course? Philosophy qualifications are useful for a variety of careers that call for the ability to communicate orally and in writing, and the capability to think critically; specifically Teaching, Law, Government and Business, or any field where a combination of analytical skills and cultural understanding may be useful.

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Philosophy Exam Board AQA

How long is the course? AS - 1 Year A2 - 2 Years

Who is the course for? We are looking for students who are willing to embark upon some of the most difficult, some say unanswerable, questions of the universe - in a meagre two years! If you wish to gain a wide range of transferable skills which can be applied far beyond the study of philosophy, this course is for you. There is no requirement to have studied Religious Studies before.

How will I be assessed? AS:100% Examination A2: 100% Examination (includes AS results)

What will I be studying? AS: You will study two units intended to provide a broad introduction to philosophy. The first major area of

study is to address conflicts between understanding based reason and experience; for instance, is there a way the world is or only as it appears to me? Secondly, you will investigate the idea of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Godâ&#x20AC;?; the origins, attributes and interactions of God with the world. A2: Involves specialising further by studying two themes and a philosophical problem by analysing the work of David Hume or Descartes. Theme one is philosophy of mind which addresses the status of the human mind in relation to the body; how does the water of the brain give rise to the wine of consciousness? Theme two looks at making sense of religion in the world.

What could I do after the course? Philosophy is useful in a wide variety of career options because you will develop critical thinking and analysing skills; you will improve your reasoning and become better at making sound judgements. These skills would suit a professional career in Law, Government, Business or Teaching.

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Photography Exam Board AQA Syllabus A

How long is the course? AS - 1 Year A2 - 1 Year

Who is the course for? The Photography course is for students who are keen and interested to learn about all aspects of Photography. This includes looking at both traditional approaches and new technologies. The course is very practical in nature and encourages students to use photography in an artistic and imaginative way. It also explores the theoretical elements of photography through both technical and critical study. This helps underpin knowledge and allows you to make informed choices about how and what you want to photograph. The aim is to use photography as a form of self expression and explore its visual language. As practical skills are gained, the course involves lots of group critiques and discussion. All are required to participate in these sessions and are actively encouraged to analyse, discuss and evaluate their own work as well as othersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. This is very much a hands-on and practical course. Photography is a subject that requires your full

commitment. You need to be prepared to fully engage in your photography in order to further develop your creative and visual mind. If you enjoy taking and really looking at photographs, have an inquisitive and creative eye, then this course could well be for you.

How will I be assessed? AS Photography, one coursework and one exam unit. 50% each A2 Photography, one coursework and one exam unit. 50% each

What will I be studying? AS The main aim of Unit one is to look at the workings and controls of the compact and SLR camera. The aim is to allow you to get the best out of your camera and gain confidence in making and taking photographs. In particular you learn about the creative controls of the aperture and shutter. These initial skills help develop your use of photography beyond simply a mechanism for recording things. You are set various practical assignments in order to try out acquired skills and experiment with different genres, approaches and techniques in photography. You are also introduced to both the analogue and digital processes of photography. You learn to develop and print photographs within the traditional darkroom setting, as well as learning the essentials of the digital workspace through

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the use of Adobe Bridge/ Photoshop and inkjet printing. You also learn about the history of photography through various lectures and seminars. There is a trip to Lacock Abbey and the Fox Talbot museum in early September. There are also other field trips where you go out on assignments and photo shoots, exploring, for instance, the rural and urban landscape. You then go on to learn about viewpoint and composition as well as other elements of visual language, with particular reference to the context of photography. To accompany all work produced in Unit one you need to submit a comprehensive folder/ workbook. This needs to show clear research and development of ideas, as well as mounted series and sets of photographs from coursework assignments. Unit two includes an exam board set practical paper. In this, you are required to choose one question and produce an extended major project. The idea is that after initial preparatory work, you will use learnt skills from unit one and produce a well conceived and considered set of final images. The exam paper allows you to choose from a wide range of photographic practices, including, Landscape, Portraiture, Documentary, Fashion and Still life.

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To accompany Unit two a comprehensive workbook / folder is also required, showing clear research, development of ideas, as well as a mounted set of photographs from the chosen exam question.

written work of between 1,000 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3,000 words. The aim of this written piece is that it should be linked to the personal investigation, and ideally a reflection on the candidateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work and /or that of others.

A2 Unit three revolves around the notion of a personal investigation. You are required to produce a self-directed practical project that needs to be linked to some aspect of contemporary or past practice in photography. Although choice of subject matter is completely open, a comprehensive workbook is again needed to show relevant and appropriate research and clear development of ideas, as well as evidencing all stages of practical work

Unit four is another externally set exam paper offering a number of assignment options. The aim of this final unit is to test candidatesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; ability to work independently whilst also being able to develop and produce a personal response. Each student selects an assignment from the question paper and after substantial research, preparatory work and experimentation, produces a mounted finished piece, or pieces, of work.

In Unit three, there is also a requirement for a piece of analytical and critical

What could I do after the course? Many A Level Photography students progress onto BA Honours degree courses in Photography, Graphics, Media or Film. They can choose from many specific courses and pathways such as Documentary,Fashion, Editorial and Fine Art. There are also various opportunities to progress straight into the industry through apprenticeships or as a photographers assistant. It is also not unusual for photography students to find an allied career path in related media, such as, journalism, radio, T.V and advertising.

A comprehensive workbook / folder is required for this unit, evidencing all relevant work completed in this final unit.

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Physics (Standard and Higher Level) Exam Board IBO

How long is the course? 2 Years

Who is the course for? Physics is important for all mechanical, structural and electrical university courses and related career fields.

How will I be assessed? Higher Internal Assessment 24% External Assessment 76% Standard Internal Assessment 24% External Assessment 76%

What will I be studying? This course aims to explain the basic features of the natural world primarily in terms of the interaction between matter and energy. Students look at the way in which physical principles have been applied to construct various devices and machines in everyday life.

Topics to be studied include: Measurement, Mechanics, Thermal Physics, Waves, Electromagnetism and Nuclear Physics and there are further options to be chosen later. All students must participate in the Group 4 Project - an interdisciplinary activity in which all Science students work collaboratively to analyse a topic or problem, which will enable them to develop their personal skills. At Higher Level students also study further options in two topics.

What could I do after the course? Physics provides a qualification that allows entry into numerous degree courses E.g. Engineering (Civil and Mechanical), Science, Medical Courses etc.

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Physics Exam Board

What will I be studying?

OCR Syllabus A

Mechanics (Unit G481) provides knowledge and understanding of key ideas used to describe the motion of objects. The module is essential in the understanding of safety features of cars covered in the Forces in Action module. It also provides students with opportunities to develop both analytical and experimental skills. The motion of a variety of objects can be analysed using graphical, ICT or data-logging techniques. The work of Galileo on falling objects can be used to illustrate how scientific ideas are modified and also the tentative nature of scientific knowledge. a graduated path from GCSE into the AS course, showing a wide variety of ways in which physics is currently put to use.

How long is the course? AS - 1 Year A2 - 2 Years

Who is the course for? The OCR Physics course provides a distinctive structure within which students can learn both about fundamental physical concepts and about Physics in every day and technological settings. This means it is important for all mechanical, structural and electrical university courses. It is also a good course for most university courses. A primary aim of the course is to show how Physics is practised and used today. Equally important, however, is to show the usefulness of the subject, and to illustrate the kind of impact which discoveries in Physics have had on the way people live. The course offers new perspectives of Physics and of course different angles on familiar topics. There are extensive support materials available for students; including appropriate software, providing a variety of learning activities.

How will I be assessed? In AS 30% of the final grade is constituted by Paper 1(G481) in January and 50% Paper 2(G482) in May. 20% of the AS examination is assessed as practical skills(G483) The AS exam contributes 50% to the final A2 examination grade In A2 the final grade is constituted from 15% coming from Paper 3 (G484) in January and 25% Paper 4(G485) in June. 10% of A2 is examined in the form of a practical investigation.

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Electrons, Waves and Photons (Unit G482) is organised to introduce or consolidate the basic concepts required for describing, using and designing electrical circuits. It is vital for a scientist to be able to recall, use and apply scientific vocabulary. Hence, it is important to learn key definitions within this module. Electromotive force and potential difference are defined and distinguished in terms of the energy transferred by charges moving round the circuit. This leads to considering the rate of energy transfer, the power, in each component of the circuit. How current varies with potential difference for a range of components is investigated. The characteristics and uses of light-emitting diodes are also explored. The module closes with an investigation of how the resistivity of metals and semiconductors varies with temperature. around different ways of understanding processes of change, the focus being on ‘curiosity-driven’ physics. The Newtonian World (G484) develops the grand conception of the world as a ‘mathematical machine’. The ideas developed by Newton underpin work in a number of the units and modules at

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A2. The second law in particular has impact on several topics including the behaviour of gases in the module on thermal physics. This module provides the opportunity to discuss the use of models to explain the elaborate physical world around us. It is also important to remember that a fundamental law such as Newtonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s second law is valid as long as a single experiment does not contradict it. For objects travelling at relatively slow speeds, its success is truly phenomenal, but strange things start to happen when objects travel at speeds close to the speed of light.

What could I do after the course? Physics students who have studied this course have gone into a variety of professions. They range from the Police, Quantity Surveying, Mechanical, Structural, Electrical and Electronic Engineering to Medicine, Teaching, Business and Accounting. All of these professions value physics because of its logical and mathematical nature that allow us to model , predict and analyse the world. Of late there are a number of physicist mathematically modelling climate change. The latter now being part of many Physics university courses.

Fields, Particles and Frontiers of Physics (G485) introduces the laws developed by Coulomb, Faraday and Lenz. The application of these laws is used to demonstrate how science has benefited society with important devices such as generators and transformers. Transformers are at the heart of many electrical items in our homes that use mains electricity.

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Political Studies Exam Board Edexcel

How long is the course? AS - 1 Year A2 - 2 Years

Who is the course for? Political Studies is for students with enquiring minds who like to debate. It is a social science subject for those interested in understanding the political philosophies, ideologies, institutions and processes which have shaped the world around us.

How will I be assessed? This course is 100% examination based with two examinations at the end of Year 12 (AS) and two at the end of Year 13 (A2)

What will I be studying? AS: Unit 1: People and Politics Ever wondered what political parties actually stand for? How else can we affect change in the country? What do pressure groups do?

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Unit 2: Governing the UK What powers does the Prime Minister really have? Who really makes the decisions that affect the country? What does Parliament really do? A2: Unit 3 B: UK Political Ideologies This is a philosophy course covering the major political traditions within the UK including Liberalism, Conservatism and Socialism. Unit 4 B: Other Ideological Traditions Continues the theme to study traditions such as Feminism, Nationalist and Ecologist approaches to political philosophy.

What could I do after the course? Career and Higher Education opportunities in - Education, Law, Political Research, Writers and Editors, Journalists, Think Tanks, Political Organiser, Campaign Management, Political Parties and Politics, Philosophy.

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‘I was given the chance to attend an Internet safety camp in Romania, where I took part in a number of team building exercises and International conferences. Meeting and communicating with people from all across Europe was a brilliant experience and one in which I’ll never forget.’

Jacob Brown – Head Boy 20112012

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Product Design Exam Board AQA

How long is the course? Two years for A2 or one year at AS Level. 5hrs per week in class and a further 5hrs private study.

Who is the course for? Returning Technology students who seek to be aspiring Designers, Entrepreneurs, Inventors. We are looking for people who like to get stuck in and make things. Some Creativity and Academic ability is important, we can help you work on the rest.

How will I be assessed? The full A Level comprises of 4 Units. AS outline • Unit 1 – Materials, Components and Application 50% of AS, 25% of A Level 2 hour written paper • Unit 2 – Designing and Making 50% of AS, 25% of A Level Coursework – approx 50 hours A2 outline • Unit 3 – Design and Manufacture 25% of A Level 2 hour written paper • Unit 4 – Design and Making Practice 25% of A Level Coursework – approx 60 hours

What will I be studying? At AS Level you will develop an understanding of a broad range of

materials, with emphasis on the life cycle of products, manufacture and final disposal. This specification also considers the broader issues for the designer including the environmental sustainability of products and consumer safety. You will look at materials, production processes and the impact of cost and design. In ‘Learning through designing and making’ You will produce coursework using your own design with a range of materials and media.

of the direction you would like to take at university then single year Foundation Degrees are very popular allowing you to develop further skills and experience across a full range of specialisms before committing to a full Design Degree.

In the second year you will get to grips with ‘Design and Manufacture’ - helping you to appreciate the relationship between design and technology, or form and function. ‘Design and Making in Practice’ is the practical, coursework part. You will make an object and record the processes that you went through. At A2, the specification offers you the opportunity to further develop the knowledge and practical skills you picked up from AS.

What could I do after the course? As a successful 3D product designer at A Level you will be at the crossroads of a number of specialist routes into the design industry. Our students generally go on to university to study in design specialisms ranging from Architecture to Web Design. Further specialisms also include Graphic Design, CAD, Product Design, Automotive Design, Illustration, Engineering and Animation, with many more besides. If you remain uncertain

In 2011, Product Design student Joseph Weaver won the £30,000 first prize in a national design competition called “The Dream Lab” with his design for a cuddly car seat accessory called ‘The Snug Hug’.

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Psychology (Standard and Higher Level) Exam Board

What will I be studying?

IBO

This course addresses complex psychological issues so that students can develop a greater understanding of themselves and others. The Biological Perspective looks at the interaction between the different factors that contribute to behaviour. The Cognitive Perspective looks at how people acquire, store, transform and communicate information. Students also study the sociocultural perspective and consider how social and cultural groups influence behaviour.

How long is the course? 2 Years

Who is the course for? Psychology is the scientific study of peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s behaviour and their mental processes. Psychologists are concerned with how people act, think, reason, and feel. If you are interested in the study of mind and behaviour, of examining the possible causes for peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s actions and exploring ways of helping others to improve their lives then Psychology is for you. Psychologists need to be objective in their outlook and receptive to a variety of perspectives. There is rarely a simple answer for any animal or human behaviour and therefore Psychologists need an inquiring mind in order to explore all possibilities. During the course you will use and develop the skills of analysis, synthesis and evaluation.

How will I be assessed? Higher Internal Assessment 20% External Assessment 80% Standard Internal Assessment 25% External Assessment 75%

Students are invited to think analytically and critically throughout the course and are provided with the opportunity to express themselves through written communication and oral presentations. In the second year students study elements of abnormal psychology and social psychology.

What could I do after the course? Research skills developed through this course are highly regarded by universities and employers. Prisons, hospitals and schools all employ Psychologists to help people with various difficulties. Many firms also have Psychologists in their personnel departments.

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Psychology Exam Board

What will I be studying?

AQA

AS Level

How long is the course?

Paper 1 There are three aspects to the paper, Cognitive Psychology (memory), Developmental Psychology (early social development) and Research Methods. We will learn about how memories are encoded, stored and retrieved and how these relate to eyewitness testimony (EWT) and its accuracy. The developmental topic focuses on explanations of attachment including learning theory and the evolutionary perspective, cultural variance, the effects caused by disruption of attachment and the impact of different forms of day care on children’s social development. Students will also learn about different ways research is conducted such as experiments, observations and case studies, and their relative strengths and limitations. There is some Mathematics involved in this section e.g. calculating mean, median and mode and analysis of graphs, but it is easily accessible to those with GCSE Mathematics.

AS - 1 Year A2 - 2 Years

Who is the course for? Psychology is the scientific study of people’s behaviour and their mental processes. Psychologists are concerned with how people act, think, reason, and feel. If you are interested in the study of mind and behaviour, of examining the possible causes for people’s actions and exploring ways of helping others to improve their lives, then Psychology is for you. Psychologists need to be objective in their outlook and receptive to a variety of perspectives. There is rarely a simple answer for any animal or human behaviour and therefore Psychologists need an inquiring mind in order to explore all possibilities. During the course you will use and develop the skills of analysis, synthesis and evaluation.

How will I be assessed? AS - 100% examination. Two papers, (one sat in January, one in June). A2 - 100% examination. Two papers, (one sat in January, one in June).

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Paper 2 There are three aspects to the paper, Biological Psychology (Stress), Social Psychology (Social Influence) and Individual Differences (Psychopathology - Abnormality). Students will learn about the body’s response to stress, stress-related illness and the immune system, factors that affect stress and psychological and physiological methods of stress management, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and drugs. Social Influence

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involves the study of conformity and obedience and the reasons for these and the implications these have for facilitating social change. Students will also learn about how we define abnormality, biological and psychological approaches to psychopathology and how abnormality can be treated including drug therapy, ECT, psychoanalysis and systematic de-sensitisation. A2 Level Paper 4 Paper 4 is studied first as it has a research methods section in it and therefore we start by building on what is learnt in Year 12. Students then study two additional topics: Media Psychology and Schizophrenia. Media Psychology involves the study of explanations of media influences on pro and anti social behaviour, how the media influences attitudes and change and the psychology of celebrity including intense fandom. The biological and psychological explanations of Schizophrenia are explored and their resultant therapies critically evaluated.

Paper 3 Involves the study of three topics: Aggression, Relationships and Intelligence and Learning. Students will learn about different explanations of aggression such as Social learning theory and genetic factors, the formation, maintenance and breakdown of relationships and the different cultural views of relationships and theories of intelligence, of how we learn through conditioning and how genetic and environmental factors influence intelligence.

What could I do after the course? Many students choose Psychology because they want to help others improve their lives. When you pursue a career in Psychology, you may help people in many different ways. There are career opportunities in Health, Forensic, Educational, Clinical and Counselling psychology specifically, however, there are few professions that do not, in one way or another, rely on psychological knowledge.

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Religious Studies (Philosophy and Ethics) Exam Board OCR

How long is the course? AS - 1 Year A2 - 2 Years

Who is the course for? Anyone interested in philosophy will enjoy this course. If you like exploring challenging concepts, and finding out how religious beliefs have influenced our culture, you will find this course fascinating. In order to achieve, you will need to read widely and be able to get your ideas across in written examinations.

How will I be assessed? AS: 100% Examination A2: 100% Examination (includes AS results)

What will I be studying? AS: Spanning over two thousand years of philosophical and religious thought, the course travels from Plato’s ancient Greece, asking questions such as ‘Do we

have a soul?’ through to modern ethical dilemmas such as ‘Should euthanasia be legal?’ and ‘Should British troops ever have gone to Iraq?’ The topics are studied in a variety of ways to ensure your lessons will always be lively and interesting! A2: At A2 you will study philosophy and ethics in greater depth. In philosophy, you will study the concept of the afterlife, the nature of miracles, and religious language. In the ethics course, you will explore the nature of freewill and conscience, and apply ethical theories to issues concerning the environment, sexuality, and the business world.

What could I do after the course? Religious Studies qualifications are useful for a variety of careers that call for the ability to communicate orally and in writing, and the capability to think critically; specifically Teaching, Law, Government and Business, or any field where a combination of analytical skills and cultural understanding may be useful.

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Sociology Exam Board AQA

How long is the course? AS - 1 Year A2 - 2 Years

Who is the course for? Sociology is the study of how human behaviour is influenced by living in social situations. It explores how people learn culture, beliefs and patterns of behaviour, and how interactions with others shape our identity. Sociologists use research and evidence to develop theories about social issues. Sociology complements other subjects such as Psychology, History and Politics. Lessons are varied, employing a variety of teaching techniques including research, debate and presentations. It is a lively, academic subject for students with enquiring minds.

How will I be assessed? There are four modular examinations, and no coursework.

What will I be studying? Unit 1 is ‘Families and Households’. This unit examines the role of families

in society and how they have changed. Students explore problems within the family, such as divorce, domestic violence etc, and consider how the nature of childhood has changed over time.

Unit 3 studies ‘Beliefs in Society’. This examines the function of religious beliefs in society and considers whether society is getting less religious. It looks at different types of religion, and explores people’s reasons for joining religious sects and cults.

‘I chose Sociology because people and society interest me. It is enjoyable because it is easy to relate to as we are all part of society.’

Unit 4 looks at ‘Crime and Deviance’. This unit includes different explanations for crime, and considers how it could be reduced. It examines whether crime statistics are accurate and whether the picture they give of the ‘typical criminal’ is realistic. Students will look at how equitable the justice system is, and consider contemporary policing issues. This unit also includes a more detailed study of the theories and methods used by sociologists.

Unit 2 is ‘Education plus Research Methods’. This unit includes theories on the role of education in society. It examines the reasons behind the statistics on different groups’ chances of success in school, and how pupil-teacher interactions can affect a child’s chances. This unit also includes the methods used by sociologists when they carry out their research, and the theories which underpin their work. This includes a wide range of research examples into criminal gangs, religious cults, football hooligans, and youth culture.

What could I do after the course? Sociology is recommended for careers in the police, personnel management, health and social care professions, journalism, the media and many higher education courses.

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Social and Cultural Anthropology (Standard and Higher Level) Exam Board IBO

How long is the course? 2 years

Who is the course for? The IB Social and Cultural Anthropology course offers an opportunity for students to become acquainted with anthropological perspectives and ways of thinking, and to develop critical, reflexive knowledge. Social and Cultural Anthropology contributes a distinctive approach to intercultural awareness and understanding, which embodies the essence of an IB education. Anthropology fosters the development of citizens who are globally aware and ethically sensitive. The Social and Cultural Anthropology course for both SL and HL students is designed to introduce the principles, practices and materials of the discipline.

How will I be assessed? SL - External Assessment 80% (over two papers), Internal Assessment 20% HL - External Assessment 75% (over three papers), Internal Assessment 25%

What will I be studying? Social and Cultural Anthropology is the comparative study of culture and

human societies. Anthropologists seek an understanding of humankind in all its diversity. This understanding is reached through the study of societies and cultures and the exploration of the general principles of social and cultural life. Social and cultural anthropology places special emphasis on comparative perspectives that challenge cultural assumptions. Many anthropologists explore problems and issues associated with the complexity of modern societies in local, regional and global contexts. Anthropology contributes to an understanding of contemporary issues such as war and conflict, the environment, poverty, injustice, inequality, and human and cultural rights. The study of anthropology offers critical insight into the continuities as well as the dynamics of social change and the development of societies, and challenges cultural assumptions. The aims of the Social and Cultural Anthropology course at Standard Level and Higher Level are to enable students to: • Explore principles of social and cultural life and characteristics of societies and cultures. • Develop an awareness of historical, scientific and social contexts within which social and cultural anthropology has developed.

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• Develop in the student, a capacity to recognise preconceptions and assumptions of their own social and cultural environments. • Develop an awareness of relationships between local, regional and global processes and issues.

What could I do after the course? Anthropology qualifications are useful for a variety of careers that call for the ability to communicate orally and in writing, and the capability to think critically; specifically Teaching, Law, Government and Business, or any field where a combination of analytical skills and cultural understanding may be useful.

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Spanish ab initio (Standard Level) Exam Board

What will I be studying?

What could I do after the course?

IBO

The objective of the Spanish Ab Initio course is for students to achieve communicative competence in a variety of everyday situations. Students will be expected to understand and use accurately the essential spoken and written forms of the language, to understand and use a limited range of vocabulary in common usage, to use a register that is generally appropriate to the situation and to show an awareness of some elements of the culture related to the language studied.

Linguists are in great demand due to their ability to communicate and think independently. Graduates tend to go into Manufacturing, Business, Law and Teaching. A good subject to combine with Law, Engineering or Business.

How long is the course? 2 years

Who is the course for? Studying a language Post-16 is for students with a passion for communication and a desire to expand the skills developed at GCSE.

‘It boosts confidence’ How will I be assessed? Internal Oral Assessment 30% Reading exam 40% Writing exam 30%

The course comprises the following topics: The Individual, Education and Work, Town and Services, Food and Drink, Leisure and Travel, The Environment and Health and Emergencies.

‘It can influence other subjects and helps with English grammar’

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Spanish (Standard and Higher Level) Exam Board IBO

How long is the course? 2 Years

Who is the course for? Studying a language Post-16 is for students with a passion for communication and a desire to expand the skills developed at GCSE.

How will I be assessed? Higher Internal Assessment 30% External Assessment 70% Standard Internal Assessment 30% External Assessment 70%

What will I be studying? The main emphasis of the Modern Foreign Language course is on language acquisition and usage. The course focuses on enabling students to communicate spontaneously and appropriately in unfamiliar as well as familiar contexts. Students must be able to adapt their language for different audiences and express ideas with clarity and fluency. It is important that students

can structure arguments in a clear, coherent and convincing way. The course comprises the following topics: Social Relationships; Political Institutions, Philosophies and Programmes; International Issues; The Media; Traditions and Conventions in the Arts and Typical or Distinctive Leisure Activities.

What could I do after the course? Linguists are in great demand due to their ability to communicate and think independently.

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Spanish Exam Board

What will I be studying?

EDEXCEL

The course consists of four broad themes: Youth Culture, Education, Lifestyle, Health and Fitness, the World About Us. These will be examined by way of a variety of sources such as press articles, news reports etc.

How long is the course? AS - 1 Year A2 - 2 Years

Who is the course for? Studying a language Post-16 is for students with a passion for communication and a desire to expand the skills developed at GCSE.

‘It is completely different to any other subject’ What could I do after the course?

‘It is challenging but rewarding’ How will I be assessed? 30% Speaking assessment, 70% combined listening, reading and writing exam

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Sport Exercise and Health (Standard and Higher Level) Exam Board

What will I be studying?

IBO

Scientific inquiry conducted over many decades, has accumulated a vast amount of information across a range of sub-disciplines that contribute to our understanding of health and human performance in relation to sport and exercise. The Diploma Programme course in sports, exercise and health science involves the study of the science that underpins physical performance and provides the opportunity to apply these principles.

How long is the course? 2 years

Who is the course for? In a world where many millions of people are physically inactive and afflicted by chronic disease and ill health, the sport and exercise scientist should be equally proficient when prescribing exercise for the promotion of health and wellness. This course is designed for students wishing to pursue careers in sport or health related fields.

How will I be assessed? SL and HL - External Assessment 76% (over three papers), 24% Internal Assessment.

The course incorporates the traditional disciplines of anatomy and physiology, biomechanics, psychology and nutrition, which are studied in the context of sport, exercise and health. Students will cover a range of core and option topics and carry out practical (experimental) investigations

in both laboratory and field settings. This will provide an opportunity to acquire the knowledge and understanding necessary to apply scientific principles and critically analyse human performance. Where relevant, the course will address issues of internationalism and ethics by considering sport, exercise and health relative to the individual and in a global context.

What could I do after the course? Excellent foundation for Higher Education and those interested in sport-based careers, such as the Armed Forces, Physiotherapy, etc.

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BTEC Level 3 Certificate in Sport (Year 12) BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Sport (Year 13) Exam Board Edexcel

How long is the course? BTEC Level 3 Certificate in Sport (Year 12) = 1st Year BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Sport (Year 12 plus Year 13) =2nd Year

Who is the course for? BTEC sport is for anyone who has a keen interest in sport. If you enjoy taking part in sport, looking at health and fitness and how the body works, leading sports activities and looking at current issues in sport then the course is for you. You need good basic practical skills but do not need to be able to compete at high levels.

How will I be assessed? The course is 100% coursework which is completed over the one or two years. Assessment tasks will vary. Students may be observed completing activities, planning and leading groups of students, collecting and analysing data, planning and following health and exercise training programmes, producing information posters and information booklets, writing written reports, giving presentations to the rest of the group, producing videos and reports.

What will I be studying? In Year 12 students follow four compulsory units:

Principles of Anatomy and Physiology in Sport The aim of this unit is to explore the structure and function of the skeletal, muscular, cardiovascular and respiratory systems and also to learn the fundamentals of the energy systems. The unit starts by exploring the structure and function of the skeletal system which includes the different bones of the skeleton and the different types of joints. The muscular system is then studied, including the major muscles of the body, muscle movement, the different types of muscle and muscle fibre types. The structure of the heart and blood vessels is covered, together with the function of the cardiovascular system. The unit goes on to explore the structure of the respiratory system and the function, including the mechanics of breathing. The final part of the unit explores the three different energy systems and the sports in which they are predominantly used.

All three energy systems that provide energy for exercise participation are also covered together with the energy continuum. Students will have the chance to investigate the effects of exercise on each of the body systems by taking part in practical activities and conducting physiological tests to help ‘see’ for themselves how each of the body systems reacts. The unit then goes on to explore how the body adapts to long-term exercise participation to help make a person fitter and more able to cope with the stresses of exercise. Again, there will be a practical investigation into the physiology of exercise participation which will help students to explore how the musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, respiratory and energy systems become more efficient in response to different types of exercise. Assessing Risk in Sport

The Physiology of Fitness

The aim of this unit is to make the students explicitly aware of the vital nature of risk assessment and its management within the sports industry.

This unit provides an opportunity for students to explore the body’s response to acute exercise and how the body adapts to long-term exercise participation.

This unit develops students’ awareness of the importance of health and safety legislation, regulations and legal responsibilities of all those working in sporting situations.

This unit explores the musculoskeletal, cardiovascular and respiratory systems responses to exercise.

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Fitness Testing for Sport and Exercise The aim of this unit is for students to be able to plan fitness training sessions and design fitness training programmes. The first part of the unit involves students examining different methods of fitness training. These include methods of training to improve flexibility, strength, muscular endurance, power, aerobic endurance and speed. Learners will develop the ability to prescribe appropriate exercise intensities, work/ rest ratios, resistance, repetitions, sets, number of exercises, order of exercises, speed of movement and systems of training depending on the nature of the session and client needs. The second part of the unit involves students planning a fitness training programme for a selected individual. Students will examine the principles of training and the concept of periodisation. Students are required to set goals for a fitness training programme and plan the training year. They are also required to monitor and evaluate a fitness training programme. This involves using a training diary and/or feedback and reviews then evaluating the extent to which the programme is achieving goals set. In Year 13 students follow 3 further units, taken from the units below:

Current Issues in Sport

What could I do after the course?

This unit enables learners to explore the history of sport, the key issues in modern UK sport and the factors that prevent sport and exercise participation.

The BTEC Sport Level three Certificate and Subsidiary diploma are recognised routes into higher education. Students can go onto study Sport or PE related courses at university.

Leadership in Sport The aim of this unit is to examine the characteristics of effective sport or exercise leadership and to give learners the opportunity to demonstrate own planning and delivery of a sport or exercise session. Exercise Health and Lifestyle The aim of this unit is for learners to be able to assess the lifestyle of an individual and provide advice on lifestyle improvement. Outdoor and Adventurous Activities This unit will enable learners to participate in exciting activities in the outdoors, learning and applying practical skills and techniques, further developing their leadership skills and qualities.

You could alternatively go straight into employment in the sports industry. The sport and leisure industry provides work for more than 600,000 people and a further 5 million volunteers and contributes ÂŁ8 billion each year to the UK economy. There are over seven million people in the UK who are members of Gyms or Leisure Centres. Virtually all careers in sport and leisure industry require communication skills, interpersonal skills, an ability to work as a team member, ability to lead a team and the ability to manage time effectively. This course will provide you with all of these.

Or Practical (Individual or team) Sports The aim of this unit is to enable learners to explore the skills, techniques, tactics and rules of individual or team sports through active participation.

Fitness Training and Performance The aim of this unit is for learners to be able to plan fitness training sessions and design fitness training programmes.

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Sport Science Exam Board OCR

How long is the course? 2 years (1 year AS and 1 year A2)

Who is the course for? Anyone who is interested in sport and the study of human movement. It is vital that you apply your general interest and enthusiasm of sport and its surrounding issues, to both academic and practical elements of the course.

How will I be assessed? Throughout the course you will get the opportunity to perform and be a critical performer. This means taking on various roles such as coach, leader and official. You will be required to analyse and improve performance for the coursework element of Sport Science. You will also

need to perform two different sports to a good standard as this is an essential aspect of your assessment.

A2: Unit 3: Theoretical aspects, externally assessed, 70% weighted.

AS 60% Examination 40% Coursework/Practical

Students will cover topics on exercise physiology, biomechanics, sports psychology, historical and comparative studies.

A2 70% Examination 30% Coursework/Practical

Unit 4: Coursework unit, internally assessed, externally moderated, 30% weighted

What will I be studying?

What could I do after the course?

AS: Unit 1: Theoretical aspects, externally assessed, 60% weighted.

Excellent foundation for Higher Education and those interested in sport based careers such as the Armed Forces, Physiotherapy, etc.

Topics cover Anatomy and Physiology, Acquiring movement skills and Socio-cultural studies relating to participation relating to physical activity. Unit 2: Coursework unit, internally assessed, externally moderated, 40% weighted.

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;I chose this subject because I particularly enjoy playing a variety of sports, especially football and I have played Sunday league football for 10 years. I also enjoy the theory side of the course as it is interestingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

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Textiles Exam Board

What will I be studying?

AQA

AS: A one year course, normally taken in Year 12.

How long is the course? AS - 1 Year A2 - 2 Years

Who is the course for? Students who enjoy following through a project from inception to completion of the final product. Practical ability in textiles is of course useful and the ability to design from initial ideas.

How will I be assessed? 50% Examination 50% Coursework This equates to two equally weighted units at AS and four at A2.

Unit 1: Assessment by external examination. Subjects covered include: Source and classification of the main fibre groups, Yarn types and properties, fabric manufacture, finishes and surface decoration, product components, Industrial and commercial practice, development of design and ICT. Unit 2: Assessment is done both internally and externally. Students produce design and make portfolios for coursework purposes, where they are able to choose their own subject areas to produce their own unique sought after product. A2: Following on from AS the A2 course consists of a further 2 modules.

Unit 3: Assessment is by external examination. Subjects covered include: Testing and comparing the relative merits of fabrics in relation to their intended use, manipulating and combining fabrics, major developments in textiles technology, product life cycle and fashion cycles, design in the human context, Industrial and commercial practice, fabric and product manufacture. Unit 4: A substantial design and making activity produced in the form of a portfolio, which is both internally and externally assessed.

What could I do after the course? Product Design, Furniture, Industrial, Interior Design, Materials Science, Fashion Design, Textiles Technology. There are numerous career opportunities within the clothing and retail industries.

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Theatre Arts (Standard and Higher Level) Exam Board

What will I be studying?

IBO

This course looks at all aspects of theatre, from the viewpoint of the actor, playwright, director and designer. You will study theatre from a wide range of historical and cultural contexts and learn to explore a variety of theatrical styles of more than one culture.

How long is the course? 2 Years

Who is the course for? Students wanting entry to degree level courses, particularly Performing Arts and Theatre courses. The skills of analysis, communication and teamwork are however transferable to a variety of careers/courses.

How will I be assessed? Higher Internal Assessment 50% External Assessment 50% Standard Internal Assessment 50% External Assessment 50%

Studying Theatre Arts will enable you to develop practical skills and you will learn to express yourself more fluently and confidently. The course is divided into four parts; Theatre in the making, Theatre in performance, Theatre in the world and an Independent Study Project where students have the opportunity to explore practically and experiment with an aspect

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of theatre of their choice. At Higher Level students will look at devising or exploring theatre practice as part of the independent project.

What could I do after the course? Students can progress to Higher Education, particularly Performing Arts and Theatre courses as well as varied career opportunities, including Theatre Production and Teaching.

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Travel and Tourism BTEC Exam Board

Writing and Presentations).

Edexcel

What will I be studying?

How long is the course?

We will aim to deliver topics and units which interest the students. We will also be including visits and trips to different locations. The Units in the first year will include:

1 European Destinations

1 An Introduction to Travel and Tourism, which will introduce the whole Industry on a global scale.

What could I do after the course?

2 Years

Who is the course for? The course is for students who are interested in following a vocational course in Travel and Tourism. Students who prefer to work independently on coursework rather than examinations will enjoy the course. On the course students will develop a range of practical and academic skills including research, communication, report writing and working as a team.

How will I be assessed?

2 Customer Service in Travel and Tourism involves a lot of role play and decision making 3 The UK as a Destination will give the students a detailed knowledge of tourism in the UK

In the second year we are planning to study:

2 The Business of Travel and Tourism 3 Preparing for Employment in Travel and Tourism

Go onto further education, at a College or university or pursue a career in the Travel and Tourism Industry or related industries, such as: Tour Operations, Retail Travel, Resort Representatives, Airports, Airlines, Accommodation and Visitor Attractions

100% coursework (Assignments, Report

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Visual Arts (Standard and Higher Level) Exam Board IBO

How long is the course? 2 Years

Who is the course for? This course is for students who enjoy being practical and creative. You will have an inquisitive nature and want to develop your art skills and experience a range of different media, techniques and processes, from charcoal to sculpting and digital editing to traditional printing. This course centres on â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;hands-onâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience as it is the work you produce that counts, therefore you have to have the dedication and enthusiasm to realise your creations beyond the confines of class time. This course will allow you to develop your creativity and independence of thought whilst embracing your imagination to create visually expressive outcomes.

How will I be assessed? At Standard Level (A) and Higher Level you will be assessed on the body of work submitted which must consist of two parts 1. Studio Workâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;this involves practical exploration and artistic production. It constitutes 60% of the assessment and is externally assessed. 2. Research Workbook/Journal- this involves independent contextual, visual and critical investigation and reflection,

both visual and written. It constitutes 40% of the assessment and is internally assessed. At Standard Level (B) you will be assessed on the two areas above, but Studio Work will constitute 40% and is internally assessed and the Research Workbook/Journal will constitute 60% and be externally assessed.

What will I be studying? Across the two years you will study art through four set themes; Portraiture, Multicultural Britain, Local Environment and a Personal Investigation. You will engage with visual arts in cultural, historical and practical contexts through personal study and practical experience. The core elements include: opportunities for practice in the use of various media and the acquisition of studio techniques, an introduction to basic art concepts, ways of extending research into practical work and an introduction to the practice of arts criticism and analysis. At Standard (A) and Higher Level, you will spend a greater amount of time on studio work and artistic production than on producing research workbooks. Standard (B) is aimed at students who are interested in art but whose strengths do not lie in practical work. More time will be devoted to workbooks and although studio work will be explored, you may not necessarily produce fully resolved/ finished work.

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What could I do after the course? After completing an IB Diploma in Visual Arts students can go on to take a Higher Education course in Art and Design, then aim to join the world of advertising as graphic designers, illustrators, typographers or become painters, sculptors, textile designers, fashion designers, photographers to name just a few. The career opportunities following this course are many and varied and for those wishing to follow a career in Art and Design, this is the first step to a Higher Education course.

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Level 2 Courses

Beauty Therapy

144

Business BTEC

145

Childcare 147 Construction BTEC

148

Engineering BTEC

149

Hairdressing

150

Hair and Media Make Up Diploma

151

Health and Social Care BTEC

153

ICT BTEC

154

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Beauty Therapy: Diploma in Beauty Specialist Techniques Exam Board

What will I be studying?

VTCT

This course provides an introduction and qualification to those with an interest in beauty therapy. The course comprises a variety of beauty related units, for example facial make-up, massage, manicure and pedicure, as well as client care and health and safety. The emphasis is on practical work and through working with clients, building up a portfolio of evidence. All units are assessed through practical work and coursework and there are opportunities for you to review and improve your work as you go along. Continual assessment is a key feature and you will need to be hard working, well organised and self-motivated to be successful on this course. This qualification is taught in a purpose-built beauty therapy training centre at Yate International Academy.

How long is the course? 1 Year

Who is the course for? Students wishing to pursue a career in beauty therapy in future. Due to the necessity of working with clients students should be good communicators and be comfortable with touching people’s faces, hair, hands and feet. Please note that students wishing to work in the beauty therapy industry are strongly advised that a Level 3 qualification is required in most instances. Please see separate listing for details of Level 3 Beauty Therapy.

How will I be assessed? A combination of internally assessed practical and theory elements. There are also examinations set by VTCT which are taken by students when they are ready i.e. there are no set exam times through the year. It is possible to resit these examinations if necessary. Internal and external verifiers check the quality of the work being produced.

Please note, for this course, there is a need to buy a uniform and an industry standard kit through the Academy.

What could I do after the course? Students who intend to follow a career in beauty therapy are strongly advised to continue to the separate Level 3 Beauty Therapy course.

‘I study here because it has a good reputation’ Laura Lovelock

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Business BTEC: First Diploma in Business Exam Board

What will I be studying?

Edexcel

The course consists of 6 units covered in one year. Three compulsory units and three optional units, chosen to reflect the interests of the students. External examinations are linked to the compulsory units.

How long is the course? This is a one-year course which is equivalent to 4 GCSEs at A* to C.

Who is the course for? Students interested in business or in working in an office-based environment. You should have good communication and time management skills.

How will I be assessed? A combination of internally assessed coursework assignments plus some external examinations set by the board. The majority of the course is internally assessed.

www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform for more information

What could I do after the course? The course can lead to progression to Level 3 Business. Other possibilities include access to a modern apprenticeship or employment.

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BTEC First Diploma in Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Care, Learning and Development Exam Board

How will I be assessed?

EDEXCEL

The course is internally assessed. Students will produce a portfolio of evidence that will consist of coursework assignments and a placement diary. The placement will provide valuable evidence for coursework assignments.

How long is the course? This is a full time one year course. Other Level 2 courses cannot be studied alongside it. The course is timetabled as two days per week in the Academy, and two days per week spent on placements. Students also take part in the Sixth Form General Studies programme.

Who is the course for? Those wishing to progress to Level 3 Childrens Play, Learning and Development but do not yet have the academic entry requirements; it is also suitable for students who would like to gain a qualification that will allow them to enter the workplace and follow a Level 3 course through the NVQ route. You must have qualities of patience, enthusiasm and a caring disposition, and the stamina to complete an academic course alongside regular involvement in a childcare placement.

www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform for more information

What will I be studying? Students study five compulsory units and one optional unit over the year. These cover childrens development, safety, communication and childcare settings.

What could I do after the course? This Level 2 course allows students to be employed in a childcare setting, working under supervision. (The level required to be in a supervisory position is Level 3). For those students who would like to progress to the Level 3 Childrens Play, Learning and Development course at the Academy the entry requirement will be a minimum Merit overall from this Level 2 course.

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Construction BTEC: First Diploma in Construction Exam Board Edexcel

How long is the course? This is a one-year course which is equivalent to 4 GCSEs

Who is the course for? Students who are seeking a practical course leading directly into a career in construction, but who do not yet know which trade they are most interested in training in.

How will I be assessed? 100% internal assessment. All the units are assessed and graded by Academy staff and external verifiers.

What will I be studying? The construction course is designed to be a general introduction to the construction industry, providing a range of opportunities. Compulsory modules include health and safety and the structure of the construction industry. There is a wide range of optional units

available; the ones delivered each year depend on the interest of the students and the availability of resources. Optional units delivered at the Academy will be likely to include brick and block work, basic plumbing, basic electrical work and basic carpentry Please note, students on this course are responsible for buying their own safety footwear and overalls.

What could I do after the course? This course will equip students to know which part of the construction industry they would like to work in. Staff delivering the course are experienced in guiding young people to their next step, and will arrange visits to colleges or building sites as possible for the students. Students who are interested in following a more academic course once this one is complete may consider a Level 3 construction course at college, though this is aimed at potential site managers or office-based construction staff.

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Engineering BTEC: First Diploma in Engineering Exam Board Edexcel

How long is the course? This is a one-year course which is equivalent to 4 GCSEs.

Who is the course for? Students wishing to pursue in an engineering related career with good practical ability.

How will I be assessed? 100% internal assessment. All the units are assessed and graded by Sixth Form staff and external verifiers.

What will I be studying?

Whilst there may be opportunities to provide evidence for this course through producing items, and through photographs and videos, students also have to complete written assignments. The course is taught through a combination of classroom and purpose-built workshop sessions at Yate International Academy. Visits to engineering firms will be arranged to show students how engineering is used in the working world.

What could I do after the course? Successful completion of this engineering course can lead to a Level 3 course, or to an apprenticeship within the engineering sector.

The course aims to provide a broad overview of the engineering industry.

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;I study here because it has a great academic profileâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Greg Caines

www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform for more information

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Hairdressing Exam Board

What will I be studying?

VTCT

This course and qualification is for students with an interest in hairdressing. The course will provide a basic range of practical skills in cutting, styling, colouring and perming hair. It also features the underpinning knowledge required in these skills together with client care and health and safety. This course will be taught in a purpose built training salon at Yate International Academy, where all the practical units and underpinning knowledge to support them will be continually assessed. You will be given opportunities to improve your work throughout to successfully complete the course and become a competent junior stylist in the hairdressing industry.

How long is the course? 1 year

Who is the course for? Students interested in a career in hairdressing, who are interested in working with people and the ever-changing fashions in hair. This is an intensive one-year programme and students need to have the stamina to show excellent attendance and punctuality, as well as the ability to be on their feet for long periods of time working with clients. Students should also be able to interact professionally with clients attending the salon.

How will I be assessed? 100% internal assessment. All the units are assessed and graded by Academy staff and external verifiers. There are some examinations set by VTCT but these are taken by students when they are ready, and marked by Academy staff.

Please note, for this course, there is a need to buy a uniform and an industry standard kit through the Academy.

What could I do after the course? This course can lead to employment in salons, self employment as a mobile hairdresser or progress further onto advanced NVQ Level 3.

‘I enjoyed working with clients because it is nice to be able to change people’s hairstyles and make them feel good. I really enjoyed this course and have been able to get a job in a hairdressers for when I leave.’S Hairdressing – Lauren

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Hair and Media Make-up Diploma Exam Board

What will I be studying?

VTCT

There are 6 compulsory units for this course covering basic hairdressing, photographic make-up, client care, and health and safety. Students then negotiate with their teacher which optional units to cover. These will depend on the interests of the group but cover a range of beauty treatments including brow and lash treatments, and hair treatments including colouring and cutting.

How long is the course? 1 year

Who is the course for? Students interested in a career working with people in a salon environment, or having consolidated this course with a further one at Level 3, in make-up and hair arrangements for the theatre, television, for weddings or special occasions.

Please note, for this course, there is a need to buy a uniform and an industry standard kit through the Academy.

What could I do after the course? Students interested in a career working within hair and media make-up are strongly advised to continue to the Level 3 course. Students whose interests develop more towards hair or beauty therapy can continue to those specialist courses within the Academy.

www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform for more information

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Health and Social Care BTEC Exam Board Edexcel

How long is the course?

communication, rights, needs and safe environments in health and social care, plus four optional units (a further 40 credits). The optional units will be selected by the teacher to reflect the interests of the group and their career aspirations.

1 Year

What could I do after the course?

Who is the course for?

This course provides an insight into a range of occupations in the health and social care fields. Students may choose to continue to study this subject at Level 3 in which case they could consider university or college courses. Many choose to go into caring, nursing, working with the elderly or young children, or in an office-based support role within the health service.

Students with a caring disposition and an interest in working with the elderly or children.

How will I be assessed? 100% Coursework

What will I be studying? Students must achieve a minimum of 60 credits. This is made up of four compulsory units (20 credits) covering

www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform for more information

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ICT BTEC: First Diploma for Information Technology (ICT) Practitioners Exam Board

What will I be studying?

Edexcel

This is a one-year course which is equivalent to 4 GCSEs.

Two compulsory units, followed by four optional units, chosen to reflect the interests of the students. Due to changes in the 2012 course specification, further information will be available on request. Assessment solely by assignments, no examinations.

Who is the course for?

What could I do after the course?

Those interested in a career in ICT or any field requiring ICT skills.

The course can lead to progression to Level 3 ICT or A Level IT. Other possibilities include access to a modern apprenticeship or employment.

How long is the course?

How will I be assessed? 100% internal assessment. All the units are assessed and graded by Sixth Form staff and external verifiers.

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Level 1 Courses

NVQ Languages: French

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NVQ Languages: German

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NVQ Languages: Spanish

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www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform for more information

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NVQ Languages: French Exam Board OCR

How long is the course? 1 Year

Who is the course for? Students interested in communicating and developing their skills in another language.

How will I be assessed? 100% Class-based assessments. Students are allowed access to notes in all assessments. 25% Speaking , 25% Reading, 25% Listening, 25% Writing

What will I be studying? This course looks at the language used in a business context. It can either be taken as a new language, or as an additional qualification to GCSE. Students will learn how to deal with foreign visitors in England and how to cope on a business trip abroad, in a range of situations.

Level 1: Students will complete a number of assessments in the four skill areas (reading, writing, listening and speaking). These are all completed in the classroom, as and when students are ready to sit them. Level 2: Once a student has completed Level 1 they can progress to Level 2. Again, all assessments are completed in the classroom. Level 2 is currently the equivalent of a grade B at GCSE.

What could I do after the course? Linguists are in great demand due to their ability to communicate and think independently. This course gives students an additional qualification using a foreign language in a practical, work-related context.

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NVQ Languages: German Exam Board OCR

How long is the course? 1 Year

Who is the course for? Students interested in communicating and developing their skills in another language.

How will I be assessed? 100% Class-based assessments. Students are allowed access to all notes in all assessments. 25% Speaking , 25% Reading, 25% Listening, 25% Writing

www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform for more information

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NVQ Languages: Spanish Exam Board OCR

How long is the course? 1 Year

Who is the course for? Students interested in communicating and developing their skills in another language.

How will I be assessed? 100% Class-based assessments. Students are allowed access to all notes in all assessments. 25% Speaking , 25% Reading, 25% Listening, 25% Writing

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Student Support Pastoral Care and Mentoring

Monitoring progress

We pride ourselves on the excellence of our pastoral care. The quality and dedication of our Tutor/Mentor teams enable our students to enjoy and to achieve. Each student will register with their Tutor daily and attend weekly Tutorial sessions. In addition we have a system of one-to-one Mentoring for students identified as in need of extra support.

Academic work progress will also be monitored in the following ways:

The Tutorial Programme You will have one lesson each week dedicated to the Tutorial programme. During this time you will undertake a variety of activities designed to enhance your social and academic experience whilst in the Sixth Form, in Year 12 this programme will also cover the skills elements of the General Studies and Project qualifications.

• Each department uses appropriate methods of reviewing past work and setting future targets. • There are 2 specific progress monitoring points in both Years 12 and 13. Target grades, current working at grades, estimated grades and attitude scores are communicated home on each occasion. • There will be two opportunities to discuss these in both Years 12 and 13, once with a Tutor/Mentor, once with subject staff. • Students experiencing difficulties will be brought to the attention of Tutors and the Federation Director of Sixth Form. After discussion, new targets are set so that progress can be achieved. Parents/carers are informed where serious difficulty exists.

Attendance Monitoring All students are expected to register with their Tutor/Mentor each morning, and attend all their subject and Tutorial lessons. Attendance will be monitored lesson by lesson using an electronic system and students will have the opportunity to discuss this weekly, with their Tutor/Mentor. All students, unless travelling between sites should be on site for periods 1-4. From the end of period 4 students are able to sign out and leave the premises. If satisfactory attendance is not achieved a three stage procedure will be implemented before consideration will be given as to whether the student remains in Sixth Form. Students are required to apply in advance for authorisation of any absence which can be foreseen.

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Private Study One of the main changes a student will notice on joining the Federation Sixth Form is that the timetable will contain a small number of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;non contact lessonsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and these must be used effectively. We expect students to spend some of their time getting to know each other in the Social Common Room in a relaxed atmosphere; that is a part of being in the Federation Sixth Form. During morning study periods you will be expected to work in the common areas available or the Sixth Form computer areas/library. However, these private study periods alone are insufficient to cover the amount of individual study required by any Sixth Form course. Students should expect to devote at least four hours per subject each week, conducting their own reading and research, to complete assignments set by staff. Whilst a part-time job is an attractive proposition, to many it is unrealistic to take on an evening, weekday job and expect to complete coursework satisfactorily enough to reach the high standards demanded in that short period. Some sacrifices are required if students are to become qualified for ultimately better paid jobs.

Educational and Vocational Guidance There is a strong emphasis on educational and vocational guidance so that all students are able to assess their future prospects in terms of either full-time employment or Higher Education (HE). The Sixth Form Leadership Team, Tutors, the local Careers Adviser and the Careers Co-ordinator, are all involved in helping students become fully aware of the various possibilities available to them, so that they can make informed decisions about their future. Students receive individual counselling about their Higher Education choices. The Federation Sixth Form also has its own Careers Library, computer programs and Internet access to help students trace Higher Education courses. Throughout Year 12 and Year 13 careers events are organised to focus on choices at 17/18+.

The Academy Day Most lessons are timetabled within the 5 period day; however, due to the wide variety of courses on offer the Sixth Form Academy day is timetabled between 8am and 4.15pm. You may therefore have lessons at any point between these times.

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Community - working with and for others Active Citizenship As well as supporting you in your academic achievement, Sixth Form is also a time for personal development and community involvement. All students will be involved in active citizenship based around the principles of Creativity, Action and Service (CAS). The aims of CAS are to develop a studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s appreciation of their role in society, through meaningful interaction with others in a wide variety of settings within the Sixth Form, local and global community. Opportunities exist in a structured programme provided by the Federation Sixth Form, whilst students will also have the freedom to negotiate their own projects. The Ridingsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Federation Sixth Form has many links with the wider community, including local universities and businesses. Students are given the opportunity to grow in confidence and gain leadership and managerial skills, when working with others through charity fundraising. Students are able to develop many skills through participation at national levels in team sporting activities and Mentoring lower Academy students. There are many possibilities for work experience and work shadowing, and the Academy plays host to a varied and stimulating range of external speakers.

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Pyramid Scheme

The Joshua Foundation

“The pyrmid scheme has worked with a number of Year 12 students who have volunteered to help in small groups across various primary schools. Through our three week training course we learnt how to handle the problems that may occur. Furthermore when we got to the schools we each had a 10 week course with the pupils within the school. Through the process we practiced different games to bring them together as one and had many different practical activities they could practice to improve social skills. An example of this is a game where the pupils had to make badges for friends and involve information they had learnt about them, basically improving confidence levels.”

“The Joshua Foundation is a charity founded by Joshua, who was a child from South Wales with a terminal illness. He came up with the idea for terminally sick children like him to have the opportunity to travel the world and have once in a lifetime experiences.

Ben Taverner

As Year 12 students we were given the chance to join the Oz Experience which involves raising £3000 for the charity and having the opportunity to travel to Australia at the end of Year 13. The group of students have organised and participated in a number of fundraising events including, cake sales, running marathons, talent concerts, raffles, car boot sales and dance classes. All of the money raised will help the Joshua Foundation massively.”

Krishan Mistry

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Finance and Travel Transport There are a variety of buses that run from the surrounding area to both Academies. Please ask during interview for the most current details. The Federation runs a complimentary bus service for students who need to travel between sites for lessons.

Finance All courses are fully funded for EU citizens. We regret that we are unable to accept students from outside the EU and we cannot offer courses to students who wish to fund their studies privately.

Student Financial Support The 16-19 Bursary Scheme offers financial support for certain students who meet the government set criteria and for those students who are eligible for Free School Meals. Details of the 16-19 Bursary Scheme and how to apply are available at www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform

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Dress and Appearance Federation Sixth Form Dress Code Students who enter the Sixth Form as young adults within the Academy community understand the importance of acting as role models. They are expected to set an example to the rest of the Academy, whilst enjoying the privilege of expressing themselves more independently. Ultimately, students enter the Sixth Form to work and contribute to the wider Academy community – their dress should reflect this. The underlying principle for the dress code is that students should dress smartly and appropriately for a working day at the Academy.

Rules for all: • No denim • No shorts • No inappropriate or revealing clothing • No sport gear (other than when taking part in practical sport sessions) • No facial piercings or visible tattoos or excessive make-up / jewellery Students are expected to use their judgement – where this fails, the decision of the Sixth Form Leadership team / Academy Principal is final.

Subject specific dress codes: Sport Science and Sport BTEC students should wear sport clothing for practical sessions. For classroom sessions the normal dress code applies. Construction and Engineering students should wear clothing appropriate to Health and Safety standards for practical sessions. Beauty and Hair students should wear the Federation Salon tunics. Childcare students should wear the Federation Childcare polo shirts.

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Further Guidance on what is and is not appropriate: Appropriate for work at the Academy

Not appropriate for work at the Academy

Trousers should be smart fitting

Shorts

Dresses / Skirts should be smart fitting and not above mid thigh Very stretchy, short skirts or dresses (e.g. lycra) Leggings with a skirt or dress worn over the top (see notes re skirts/dresses above)

Track suit bottoms or any sport wear

Smart T-shirts / polo shirts / tailored shirts or blouses (Any logos T-shirts with large pictures / inappropriate slogans on display should be discrete) Smart shoes or boots / smart, clean deck shoes

Flip flops

Discrete facial make up, nail varnish and jewellery

Facial piercings, visible tatoos

Suits

Underwear and cleavage should not be on show Denim Hats worn inside the Academy

The final decision of what is acceptable rests with the Sixth Form Leadership Team. Please respect their decision in upholding the policy. Students will be sent home to change if dress is deemed inappropriate.

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How to apply How do I apply? You can apply using the form supplied within this prospectus, or online at www.trfa.org.uk. Instructions as to how to complete are on the form itself. Please make sure that you complete all the fields so that we may process your application as promptly as possible. Please select the application form appropriate to your chosen courses, i.e. the ‘IB Diploma Programme’ application form, or the ‘All other courses’ application form. If you are unsure whether you wish to take the IBDP or other courses please do complete both forms and we will discuss the most appropriate pathway with you at interview. If you have any questions or queries, please contact Miss Giblin via the Sixth Form email address / contact number at the bottom of the page.

What happens next? It is of paramount importance that you start on an appropriate pathway from the start of Year 12, the better the match the more likely you are to succeed in your qualifications, be happy and motivated within the Sixth Form, and achieve or exceed your potential. In order to ensure this is the case, you will be called to interview in the New Year; at this interview your choices will be reviewed and a final programme of study agreed. Subject teachers will be consulted as appropriate to help us make the right selection of courses.

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Key Dates 3rd September 2012

Application for entry 2013-14 opens Prospective Sixth Formers and their parents/carers are welcome to visit either Academy at any time. All we ask is that you telephone to arrange a suitable time.

11th and 12th October 2012

Year 11 Transition Day Join with our students to consider Post-16 options

7th November 2012

Prospective Sixth Form Open Evening at Winterbourne International Academy

14th November 2012

Prospective Sixth Form Open Evening at Yate International Academy

21st November 2012

IBDP and IBCC Information Evening at Winterbourne International Academy

21st December 2012

January/March 2013

23rd April 2013

3rd June 2013

Deadline for second round of applications. Students applying from January to the end of May will need to select options from the pools created following the first round of applications in December.

June-September 2013

Late applications Subject to places being available, applications will be considered until 21st September 2013. Please note that places are limited and early application is advised.

1st and 2nd July 2013

Year 11 into Year 12 Induction days

22nd August 2013

GCSE Results Day

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Notes

www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform for more information

Dr R S Gibson Chief Executive Principal Federation House 17 High Street Winterbourne Bristol BS36 1JJ Telephone 01454 252041 Email federation@trfa.org.uk

INVESTOR IN PEOPLE

www.trfa.org.uk INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL STATUS

Telephone 01454 252051 Email sixthform@trfa.org.uk

www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform

High Street, Winterbourne Bristol BS36 1JL Telephone 01454 252000 Fax 01454 250404 Email office@trfwia.org.uk www.trfwia.org.uk

Sundridge Park, Yate South Gloucestershire BS37 4DX Telephone 01454 862626 Fax 01454 862627 Email office@trfyia.org.uk www.trfyia.org.uk