Prospectus 2014-15
2
Public Examination Results - 2012 Key Stage 4 - GCSE Results
WIA
YIA
5 or more A* - C Grades (inc. English and Maths)
74%
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%
Welcome The Ridings’ Federation Sixth Form provides students with the necessary skills, social values and qualifications to ensure they receive the best possible preparation for their future lives. Courses are taught to the highest standards within the surroundings of two state-of-the-art facilities at Winterbourne International Academy and Yate International Academy. We wish you well in your studies and look forward to welcoming you to The Ridings’ Federation Sixth Form.
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Contents The Ridings’ Federation Sixth Form is a vibrant, caring and supportive community that provides students with new skills, wonderful opportunities, lasting friendships and qualifications that are right for you.
About us Contents 3 About The Ridings’ Federation
4
Dr Gibson’s Welcome
5
About the Federation Sixth Form
5
Life @ YIA Life @ The Sixth Form
6-13
Sixth Form @ WIA
14
Sixth Form @ YIA
15
FUTURE PLANS Future Plans
16-17
Past and Present Students
18-19
COURSES Courses
20-21
International Baccalaureate
22-23
A Levels
24-25
BTEC 26-27 VTCT 28-29 NVQ 30-31 Core Courses
32-33
HOW TO APPLY How to apply
35
Key dates
36
Enrol today...Call 01454 252051
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About
The Ridings’ Federation of Academies The Ridings’ Federation of Academies supports the learning and development of over 2,700 young people in Bristol and South Gloucestershire through our two International Academies, Woodlands Primary, Woodlands Nursery and The Ridings’ Federation Sixth Form. The Federation was established in 2009 with the core purpose of raising and sustaining educational standards. Since then over £35 million has been invested in new facilities at Winterbourne International Academy and Yate International Academy. This will ensure that our students benefit from the best state-of-the-art educational resources available. We have an ethos of internationalism throughout The Ridings’ Federation, which prepares students for their future as global citizens. Supporting this philosophy is a dynamic and responsive curriculum leading to a wide range of national and international qualifications. Aside from the day-to-day running of our Academies and Sixth Form, The Ridings’ Federation also offers its facilities to the local communities through leisure and adult learning programmes.
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Sixth Form About the Federation
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. 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. I wish you well in your studies and look forward to welcoming you to our Federation Sixth Form. Dr R S Gibson Chief Executive Principal
We are delighted to introduce you to The Ridings’ Federation Sixth Form. We promote a culture which values learning and participation within a purposeful and businesslike environment. In addition to achieving academic success, we aim to develop your skills and interests, enabling you to enter the world as confident, independent, forward-thinking individuals. The decision to continue your education beyond the age of 16 is an important one. Life in the Sixth Form is quite different from your experience in the Secondary phase of education. You will experience more freedom, more responsibility, and more practical work that will be tuned into your future aspirations. The Federation Sixth Form provides the very best quality provision in the area. Serving up to 500 students, we provide learning opportunities at all levels. The Ridings’ Federation Sixth Form is a vibrant, caring and supportive community that provides students with new skills, wonderful opportunities, lasting friendships, and qualifications that are right for you. Miss C Giblin and Mr A Parris Federation Director of Sixth Form and Assistant Principal
Enrol today...Call 01454 252051
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Life @
The Ridings’ Federation Sixth Form Students at the Sixth Form not only benefit from a vast range of courses, but from excellent facilities and extra-curricular activities, both in the UK and internationally. From musical productions to volunteering and international trips and projects, our students have an enviable range of opportunities to choose from.
Overseas educational trips and experiences
Many students are given the opportunity to travel the world to enrich their academic experience and prepare them for their future as global citizens. Recently, students have travelled to all corners of the globe. Business Studies students got to see how the business world of New York works, Language students sampled culture in Spain. Students have also been involved in international charitable work, supporting and visiting schools in Kenya and India.
Mexican links
Our Languages Department and students studying Spanish have set up links with two very different schools in Mexico. After raising the funds through organising their own events, the students flew to Mexico in June 2013 to visit their Mexican counterparts at a secondary school in MĂŠrida. Our students also spent two days at a primary school in the village of MocochĂĄ where they raised money to rebuild their playground with new equipment.
www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform...for more information
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Outside the classroom Our Sixth Form students are never bored! We provide a full range of extra-curricular activities to enhance their time with us. Recently students have completed first aid qualifications, raised money for charities, tutored younger students within the Academies, organised Sixth Form socials, entered team building activities and achieved success in sport, drama and music.
Sport and leisure
The Federation Sixth Form benefits from some of the best Sport & Leisure facilities in South Gloucestershire, with two all-weather pitches for football and hockey, two large sports halls with cricket nets, a mirror dance studio, gymnasium, tennis courts, sports pitches and an award-winning swimming pool.
Music rooms
Our music departments are fully-equipped with an impressive range of instruments and the latest music production software. We have dedicated practice rooms and encourage public performance for experience and development. In 2012, we saw the introduction of Ridings’ Recordings, a record label exclusively for students of The Ridings’ Federation.
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Drama, Music and Arts
Our students regularly have the opportunity to show off their acting skills and every year we put on a number of productions. Students benefit from dedicated drama studios, auditoriums and theatres at both campuses and recently students have taken part in We Will Rock You, Bugsy Malone, Grease, Return to the Forbidden Planet, West Side Story, Oliver, Oh What A Lovely War and Gel, to name just a few! Sixth Form students have also taken part in music concerts and helped lead lower school groups.
Quality auditoriums, theatres and the ‘Arts Centre’
The impressive auditorium at Yate can play host to audiences of up to 240 people for concerts, drama performances and lectures. The Arts Centre at Winterbourne runs numerous events throughout the year giving students the opportunity to help with production, lighting, sound, performance, and promotion.
Art and photography
We are fully equipped to help artists reach their potential with first-rate facilities including a darkroom for our photography students, art studios and iMacs with the latest Adobe Creative Suite software. Our Art Department is able to offer drawing, painting, sculpting, ceramics, digital animation, photography, textiles and mixed media. Everything you need for your artistic projects!
www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform...for more information
“There are a wealth of unique facilities for sixth form students including forensics lab, darkroom, swimming pool, studios, beauty salon, and Arts Centre.”
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Presentation evening
We believe in celebrating the success of our students. Achievements are regularly announced via the website, internal and external communication material, and the local media. You and your family would also be invited to the annual presentation evening to celebrate your time at the Sixth form.
Online education
The Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) is available to all students and can be accessed from any device with Internet access. Students can find activities, revision materials, subject guidance and a whole range of other useful information to help them with their studies.
External visitors
Visitors to the Sixth Form have proven to be both educational and inspiring. Recent visitors include the Royal Marines, Lecturers from the University of Bath, keynote speakers, professional sportsmen, and even HRH The Princess Royal!
“It’s great that I can access the Media Studies resources and examples from home using the VLE as it helps me to learn more independently.” Demi Brain (Year 13).
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/ / Woodlands Nursery
// YIA Hair and Beauty Salon
// Student Associateships
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Gaining Real
Experience
We value the importance of work experience and foster this through vocational qualifications offered with work placements and our own Associateships. Students are also encouraged to seek their own placements, which have recently included the BRI and veterinary practices.
Student Associateships
Hair and Beauty Salon
Woodlands Nursery
Student Ambassadors
Every year, we organise Student Associateships with local businesses to help our students gain real life experience whilst studying with us. Not only does this look good on your CV, but can give your University application a real boost. Recently our students have worked in marketing, graphic design, engineering and administration roles.
Students studying for hair and beauty qualifications benefit from a fully functional, professional salon. The salon is open to the public giving hands-on experience throughout the course making our students more appealing to future employers.
In 2013, The Ridings’ Federation of Academies opened a new nursery on the same site as Woodlands Primary Phase in Yate. Some students studying for childcare qualifications will be able to gain first-hand experience in an Early Years setting, working at the Nursery and being accredited at the same time. One of the teaching assistants employed to work at Woodlands Nursery studied at The Ridings’ Federation Sixth Form.
Sixth Form students are trained within the Academies to act as mentors and classroom assistants for younger students within the Academies. This not only benefits the younger students greatly, but gives our Sixth Form students excellent volunteering experience which is looked on favourably by universities and employers.
Enrol today...Call 01454 252051
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Student
Support While you’re studying with us, your wellbeing is our top priority. To make sure both your academic and personal needs are taken care of, we have an excellent pastoral care system with tutors and mentors to provide support and guidance when you need it.
Hearing Impaired Resource Base (HIRB)
The Tutorial Programme
Our outstanding HIRB supports the learning of our students with hearing difficulties. Students are fully integrated and receive access to the full curriculum. The type and level of support varies according to the needs of the individual. Support may include:
You will have one lesson a week dedicated to the Tutorial Programme. During this time, you will undertake a variety of activities designed to enhance your sixth form experience. The EPQ and General Studies are also delivered during this time.
•
1:1 support in the Resource Base
•
Group withdrawal to the Resource Base
•
In-class support
HIRB staff work closely with the mainstream staff to provide differentiated material to maximise support and are all fluent, or are receiving training, in British Sign Language (BSL) in order to increase our ability to provide support for a wide range of hearing impaired students.
www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform...for more information
Day-to-Day Pastoral Care Students meet with their personal tutors every morning for registration to keep up-to-date with important news and information. Any minor issues can be raised with tutors during these sessions.
On-going Support and Monitoring Throughout the year, academic progress is monitored by subject staff and appropriate individual targets are set to ensure that students reach their potential. If students appear to be struggling, the Sixth Form has a system of one-to-one mentoring which has proved very effective in getting them back on track.
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Bursary Funding The 16-19 Bursary Fund is a government scheme designed to help some students continue in education after GCSE. The amount awarded is based on the individual student, but can be up to ÂŁ1,200 per year. Details on how to apply can be found on www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform
Funding of courses All courses are fully funded for EU citizens aged 16-19.
Transport Both Academies are on the main bus routes from Bradley Stoke, Downend, Emersons Green and Bristol City Centre. The Yate campus is just a 20-minute walk from Yate railway station.
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Sixth Form
@WIA
Winterbourne International Academy is one of the leading educational establishments in the South West of England, excelling above all other local Sixth Forms in the provision of A-Level and International Baccalaureate qualifications. The new build at WIA is set to open in September 2014 after an investment of £19 million. The campus will feature:
• •
An International Core with all-day dining facilities
• • • • • •
Flexible learning spaces
New Science, Art, Maths, MFL, English, Humanities and Music departments New Learning Resource Centre Interactive theatre Outdoor teaching spaces Extension to the Arts Centre Newly renovated Sixth Form Centre
The Sixth Form Centre will have fully modernised common rooms, sixth form library and café. It will also feature IT facilities solely for the use of Year 12 and 13 students, providing the ideal environment to study outside lessons. Compared to other sixth forms in the region, more students from WIA go to their chosen University and avoid the clearing process. www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform...for more information
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Sixth Form
@YIA
The Sixth Form at Yate International Academy is primarily a vocational centre delivering excellence in BTEC, NVQ and VTCT courses. 2012 saw the completion of our new £16 million campus at Yate International Academy, complete with 240-seat auditorium, new sports facilities, dance studio, multi-gym, classrooms and technology rooms. The building is based around a central hub – a spacious circular area featuring a large reception, Learning Resource Centre and ICT rooms. The whole site has been designed with a generous open-plan layout in order to create the perfect learning environment for students. The academy building also includes an enviable provision for the arts with a professional dance studio, theatre, music rooms, art rooms and a photography studio. These are equipped with the most up-to-date computers and software. The newly completed sports facilities are some of the best in South Gloucestershire and include a multi-gym, floodlit all-weather pitch, tennis courts, sports hall and cricket nets.
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Future
Plans
// Bath University visit
We care deeply about our students, not only while they are studying with us, but also after they leave. We have Career Advisors, access to various online careers programmes and libraries to ensure that our students are fully aware of the range of pathways available to them once they leave the Sixth Form. We regularly organise careers events and encourage students to attend careers fairs and university open days to help them choose the route that is best for them. Through the Tutorial Programme, students receive assistance with job hunting, CV writing, or University choices and the UCAS application process. Individual information, advice and guidance is very important to us. We work with all students to ensure they achieve the post sixth form pathway of their choice, this ranges from Higher Education, apprenticeships, employment, or Further Education. Students who have progressed to university have gone on to study a wide range of courses at a variety of universities, such as;
www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform...for more information
Course
University
Physics
University of Bath
Veterinary Science
University of Bristol
Mathematics
University of Cambridge
Biomedical Science
University of Southampton
History
University of Oxford
Mandarin & Spanish
University of Manchester
Arabic Studies
SOAS
Medicine
University of Prague
Business Studies
University of Reading
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3% 11% 9% 4% 4% Destinations 69% HE / FE Gap Year Other Year 14 WIA Employment Apprenticeship
// University of the West of England UWE Bristol
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Past and Present
Students Caroline Thomas - Midwife in Madagascar working with orphans and babies.
www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform...for more information
Ross Newman - Primary School Head Teacher in South Gloucestershire
Olly Kohn – Wales International rugby union player for Harlequins having previously played for Bristol and Plymouth Albion. Won English Premiership in 2011-12.
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“We are proud of our students, both past and present, who have gone on to do some amazing things.”
Professor Dale Southerton – Professor of Social Science at the University of Manchester, Editor, writer and contributor to numerous academic publications in the area of Sociology
Jess Hopton - Under 17 English National Badminton Champion, Olympic Torch Bearer
Ross Pollard - Local BBC Radio Journalist
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Courses Introduction
We are proud to offer our students one of the best selections of qualifications in the South West. From Further Mathematics and Chemistry to Film and Childcare, The Ridings’ Federation Sixth Form offers over 80 post-16 courses to almost 500 students every year. We are one of the few places in the country where you can study courses like BTEC Forensic Science or a full range of hair and beauty courses in a purpose-built salon.
Entry Requirements
Entry Level
Entry Level Certificate
Key Skills / Functional Skills
GCSE (Grades D-G)
GCSE (Grades A*-C)
A Levels (AS & A2) International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma, A.O.A Baccalaureate. Cambridge Pre-U
GCSE’s in vocational subjects (grade D-G). BTEC Introductory. Foundation Diploma
GCSE’s in vocational subjects (grade A*-C). BTEC Introductory. Foundation Diploma
A Levels (AS & A2) International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma, A.O.A Baccalaureate. Cambridge Pre-U
Higher education qualifications e.g. Degree, HND/ HNC. Foundation degree DIP HE, Cert HE
Post-graduate qualifications e.g. Masters, Doctorate
Work Related (Preparing for a broad range of jobs)
NVQ 1
NVQ 2
NVQ 3
NVQ 4
NVQ 5
Work Based (Preparing for specific jobs)
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Levels 4-6
Levels 7-8
www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform...for more information
Higher education qualifications e.g. Degree, HND/ HNC. Foundation degree DIP HE, Cert HE
Post-graduate qualifications e.g. Masters, Doctorate
General
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What types of qualifications do we offer? International Baccalaureate
The International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB) offers an exciting proposition for students who want to continue to higher education after sixth form. IB students take six subjects (three at higher level and three standard) giving a broad and balanced post-16 education.
A Levels
A Levels are the traditional route to university and higher education. We offer a range of nearly 40 A Levels. All of our A Level courses are classed as ‘Level 3’. See page 24-25 for more details.
For a more practical approach to learning, we recommend looking at our BTEC courses. These are offered as either Level 2 or Level 3 and we have 12 different BTEC subjects for you to choose from. See page 26-27 for more details.
See page 22-23 for more details.
NVQ
VTCT
See page 30-31 for more details.
See page 28-29 for more details.
For a course that goes with almost everything, why not consider studying one of our NVQ Modern Language courses? You can study these at Level 1 or 2 and choose from French, Spanish or German.
BTEC
The Vocational Training Charitable Trust, or VTCT, provide specialist work related courses and qualifications. We offer six different VTCT qualifications at both Level 2 and 3, all in the field of health and beauty.
Core
All students are expected to follow certain core subjects to develop personal learning and thinking skills. These will depend on the other courses that you choose but will either involve the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), The Higher Project or A Level General Studies. The core courses are described in more detail on page 32-33.
“We offer both academic and vocational courses to suit every student, so you’re sure to find a subject that interests you.”
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International Baccalaureate
What is the International Baccalaureate? The International Baccalaureate (IB) is an excellent qualification for those intending to continue to University after Sixth Form, and provides students with a broad and balanced curriculum, which prepares them well for adult life. At The Ridings’ Federation Sixth Form, we offer 25 IB subjects from across the curriculum providing students with the ability to tailor the qualification to suit their personal interests and ambitions.
How is the International Baccalaureate structured? IB students choose six subjects to study across the two years of the course. Three subjects are studied at Higher Level and three at Standard Level. There is also a set of core modules that are studied. All IB subjects are assessed in different ways but normally involve an element of coursework as well as exams. Check the subject description online for more information.
What can I do afterwards? According to recent research by the HESA, students that leave Sixth Form with an IB qualification tend to go on to study at highly rated universities and work in better-paid jobs. The IB is
www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform...for more information
one of the few qualifications that allows students to keep their options open for longer, leaving students free to choose which path they want to take at 18 rather than 16.
What subjects can I study? Select one subject from each of the six groups (You can select any second subject from Groups 2-4 instead of choosing a Group 6 subject)
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
23 For further information on these courses please visit www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform or use the QR code
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 ‘The Core’ 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
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
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A Levels (AS, A2 and Applied A Levels) What is an A Level?
What can I do afterwards?
A Levels are a traditional post-16 qualification and are ideally suited to more academic students. The Ridings’ Federation Sixth Form offers nearly 40 different A Level courses covering all aspects of the curriculum. Most of our students take four A Levels in Year 12 and continue with their preferred three into Year 13.
A Levels are an excellent way to specialise in a few core subjects to prepare you for university and are also universally respected in the world of work. Careful selection of your A Level courses can help you on your way to your ideal career.
How is an A Level structured? Most A Level courses consist of 4 or 6 modules of roughly equal size. The first half of the modules count towards an AS level and the second half towards an A2 level. Both halves combine to become a full A Level. Modules are assessed individually through exams and coursework. Different subjects have a different proportion of exams to coursework.
// Drama and Theatre Studies
25 For further information on these courses please visit www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform or use the QR code
// Music Technology
/ / Biology
// Mathematics
What A Levels can I study here? Applied Art and Design (Single Award)
Film Studies
Music
Applied Art and Design (Double Award)
Food Technology
Music Technology
Art and Design
French
Philosophy
Biology
Further Mathematics
Photography
Business Studies
Geography
Physics
Chemistry
German
Product Design
Classical Civilisation
Applied Heath and Social Care
Psychology
Drama and Theatre Studies
History
Religious Studies
Economics
Law
Sociology
English Language
Mathematics
Spanish
English Literature
Maths AS (over 2 years)
Sport Science
English Language and Literature
Media Studies
Textiles
Environmental Studies
Enrol today...Call 01454 252051
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Vocational Study Programme
BTEC What is a BTEC?
What BTECs can I study here?
BTECs provide specialist work-related qualifications in 12 different subject areas. This type of qualification can suit a range of students, from the academic to the more hands-on.
Course
Level
Business Studies
2&3
How is a BTEC structured?
Engineering
2&3
A BTEC is made up of core and specialist modules, typically delivered over two years. You will then be assessed via ‘Assessment Tasks’, such as projects, for each unit. These will be awarded a ‘pass’, ‘merit’ or ‘distinction’ grade. Unlike many post-16 qualifications, BTECs do not have external examinations.
What can I do afterwards? The skills gained from a BTEC prepare students well for university, foundation degrees and the workplace. BTECs are developed in conjunction with professional bodies and industry, meaning that the skills learnt are relevant and respected.
Forensic Science
3
Performing Arts
3
Sport
3
Travel and Tourism
3
Hair and Media Makeup Childcare
2&3
Childcare
2&3
Construction Beauty Therapy
NB Vocational qualifications are currently under review by the Government at time of printing - full details of our study programme can be found on our website.
www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform...for more information
Health and Social Care
2 2&3 3
27 For further information on these courses please visit www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform or use the QR code
// Construction // Childcare
// Travel and Tourism / / Performing Arts
// Engineering
// Business
28
/ / YIA Hair and Beauty Salon / / Hairdressing
www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform...for more information
29 For further information on these courses please visit www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform or use the QR code
Vocational Study Programme
VTCT What is a VTCT Qualification?
A VTCT is a specialist, work-related qualification, offered as a Level 2 course.
How is a VTCT structured? The VTCT course lasts one year and is divided into several modules. The modules will either have a theoretical or practical basis and are all assessed internally.
What can I do afterwards? Those who hold VTCT qualifications are well sought after in industry as they can demonstrate a practical knowledge of their subject. Depending on the subject and level studied, students can expect to go directly into industry or continue in Further Education.
Course Hairdressing
Level 2
30
// French
// German
/ / Spanish
www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform...for more information
31 For further information on these courses please visit www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform or use the QR code
NVQ What is an NVQ? At The Ridings’ Federation Sixth Form, we offer NVQ Level 1 & 2 courses in Modern Languages in a business context. It is ideal for those looking for applied knowledge but have little previous knowledge of the language.
How is an NVQ structured? The Modern Language NVQs are structure around the four core competencies of language: Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking. Each of these elements is worth 25% of the overall qualification and are all assessed internally.
What can I do afterwards? NVQ qualifications in Modern Languages can compliment almost any other course that you opt to take. NVQ qualifications in Modern Languages can be a stepping-stone to a number of languagerelated careers both in the UK and internationally.
What NVQ courses can I study here? NVQ French for Business NVQ Spanish for Business NVQ German for Business
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Core
Courses Overview
To expand students’ personal learning and thinking skills, The Ridings’ Federation Sixth Form provides a range of Core courses to develop the essential skills required to succeed at post-16 level and beyond.
Essential Core - All Students (non IBDP) All of our sixth form students complete either the Extended Project Qualification (Level 3), the Higher Project (Level 2) or General Studies (Level 3). The Project is tailored around the interests of the student and develops independent research, creative thinking and evaluation skills. General Studies teaches a number of key skills that are highly valued by employers and universities, such as analytical thinking, communication and presentation skills.
Optional Core – All Students In addition to the Essential Core courses, we offer a range of optional courses to develop students’ key skills. Some courses run throughout the academic year and others just for a few weeks. It is sometimes possible to opt for more than one Optional Core course; this can be discussed more at interview. The list below reflects our usual offer, but a variety of opportunities arise throughout the academic year.
www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform...for more information
Courses Course type
Course title
Suitable for
Optional
Introduction to Playwork
Level 2 & 3 Students
Optional
Level 2 Playwork Award
Level 2 & 3 Students
Optional
NVQ Modern Languages
Level 2 & 3 Students
Optional
Critical Thinking
Level 3 Students
33 For further information on these courses please visit www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform or use the QR code
34
Complete Application Form
Attend Interview
www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform...for more information
Conditional Place Offered
Attend Prep Days
GCSE Exam Results Published. Place Confirmed
35
How to Apply and the Application Process Overview Once you’ve chosen your courses, here’s the process to follow between now and the start of your courses in September 2014.
•
Complete an application form, either on paper or online, and get it sent off to us, ideally before the 29th November 2013. If you’re applying for the IB, please use the IB Application Form. For all other courses, please use the ‘Non-IB Application Form’.
•
Once we’ve received your application form, we’ll confirm this by sending you an email or writing to you. If you are concerned that we may not have received your form, please call us to check.
•
Internal Candidates: If your expected GCSE (or equivalent) grades meet our entry requirements for your chosen courses, we will automatically offer you a place. We will write to confirm the details of the offer and ask you to confirm whether you wish to definitely accept the place. The offer is provisional and dependent upon you achieving the grades required in the summer.
•
Internal Candidates: If your expected GCSE (or equivalent) grades do not meet our entry requirements for your chosen courses, we will meet with you to discuss an appropriate Post-16 pathway with you. This may result in a provisional offer of a place, or recommendation for other Post-16 pathways beyond the academies. Please note, we will not offer places for courses unless your expected grades meet our entry criteria.
•
External students: All applicants wishing to join us from other schools and academies will be asked to attend an interview. You should bring a copy of your most recent report with you. As with internal applicants, provisional places will only be offered to students whose expected grades meet our entry requirements. For full details of our admissions policy, please visit www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform
•
Year 12 Preparation Days – all those with provisional places will be invited to an induction day in July to introduce you to your new surroundings, ready to start you courses in September. You will be given a small amount of summer work for each subject which must be submitted during the first lesson on return in September. The submission of this work, and completion to an appropriate standard forms part of the admissions criteria. The work is assessed in order to ensure that the right students are on the right courses and it is possible that students are required to rethink their options at this stage.
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Key Dates 1st September 2013
Application for entry 2013-14 opens. Interviews will occur for external students following receipt of applications. 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 will be offered without interview to internal students who meet entry requirements. Some internal students may be interviewed to ensure appropriate pathways are followed. 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.
22nd October 2013
IBDP Experience Day - Information for Students and Parents/Carers’
6th November 2013
Prospective Sixth Form Open Evening Winterbourne International Academy.
13th November 2013
Prospective Sixth Form Open Evening Yate International Academy.
29th November 2013
Deadline for first round applications. Applications received by this date help to form 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 2014
Interviews continue.
2nd June 2014
Deadline for second round of applications. Applications received 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 2014
Late applications. Subject to places being available, applications will be considered until 19th September 2014. Please note that places are limited and early application is advised.
1st & 2nd July 2014
Year 11 into Year 12 Preparation for Sixth Form Days. The chance to meet your teachers. Summer Work will also be issued on these days to be completed for September 2014.
21st August 2014
GCSE Results Day. Miss Giblin and Mr Parris will be available to discuss Post-16 options on this day.
www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform...for more information
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Student
Photography
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www.trfa.org.uk/sixthform...for more information
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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 333560 Email office@trfyia.org.uk www.trfyia.org.uk