20 1 6 EASTBOURNE CAMPUS
CROSS LEVELS WAY EASTBOURNE EAST SUSSEX BN21 2UF
EMAIL : schoolslink@sussexdowns.ac.uk WEB : www.sussexdowns.ac.uk/about/opentaster-days
YEAR 10 TASTER DAYS
SUSSEX DOWNS COLLEGE TASTER DAYS
The next few years will be an exciting time for you as you begin to unlock your future career and explore all the choices available to you. Our Year 10 Taster Days will help you make an informed decision about your next steps after Yearr 11. On the day you will have the opportunity to sample real lessons, speak to teachers and students and explore the campus. TASTER SELECTION Please take a look through this programme for our range of tasters and select 5 different taster sessions. You will be allocated 4. SPECIAL CLOTHING REQUIREMENTS We want you to get the best experience possible from your visit to Sussex Downs College so please read the information carefully for the tasters you are interested in and make a note if you need to wear particular clothing on the day. SCHEDULE OF THE DAY Over 500 students from numerous schools will be attending each day. If you are booking through your school you will receive information regarding the date you are to attend and where to register on the day. On arrival to your registration area you will be given your own personal programme for the day. There will be staff and students on hand to help you navigate your way around. Please bring a snack and a drink or some money with you for break time.
08:30 09:30 10:40 11:40 13.00 14:10 15.20
Registration/Welcome Speech Taster 1 Taster 2 Lunch Break Taster 3 Taster 4 End
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Please select 5 different Taster sessions. You will be allocated 4 for the day. As an example choose your Taster selections as follows: Taster 1: Fine Art Taster 2: Pasta Workshop Taster 3: Law Taster 4: Maths Taster 5 (Reserve): Brickwork ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Prospectus Our 2017/2018 prospectus will be available online or at your school from September 2016 onwards. It will contain our full range of courses for you to choose from including entry requirements. Dependent on your exam results we can help you find a programme of study to suit you and your ambitions. Our current 2016/2017 prospectus can be found on our website. Open Events Come along to our Open Events in the autumn term where you and your parents or carers will have the opportunity to speak to our teachers, students and support services and see all the facilities we have to offer. Please see our website for dates and times. Information for Parents and Carers Moving on from Year 11 can be a daunting process looking at the many choices on offer. We have included a guide for parents and carers on our website that will help you to help them navigate their way to their next stage of learning. www.sussexdowns.ac.uk/parents-information/
We are looking forward to meeting you. Remember to ask lots of questions, and enjoy your day!
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4 APPRENTICESHIPS APPRENTICESHIPS
Come along to our Apprenticeship session and meet our Apprenticeship Recruitment Advisor who can talk to you about apprenticeships, what employers are looking for and how to start your career as an Apprentice. Earn a real wage, achieve nationally recognised, industry approved qualifications and gain the employment experience local businesses want. An Apprenticeship is a way for you to earn while you learn in a real job, gaining a real qualification with technical knowledge and practical experience for an immediate job and future career. Apprenticeships are available at Intermediate, Advanced and Higher (degree) level, covering more than 170 industries and 1500 job roles in sectors from Health & Social Care to Motor Vehicle, IT, Accounting and Hospitality. Over 200,000 workplaces in England offer Apprenticeships. 86% of Apprentices progress to new employment after completing their training with 67% staying with the same employer. In fact, a quarter of all former apprentices had received a promotion within 12 months of finishing! Employers think that qualified apprentices are 15% more employable than those with other qualifications. With this in mind there has never been a better time to become an apprentice.
BUSINESS & LAW ACCOUNTING A LEVEL & AAT
This course is designed for those looking to pursue a career in the exciting (and well paid) world of accounting, business, management and finance. Today’s accountants are anything but grey and this course is definitely not for shrinking violets. You will need to have strong numeracy and literacy skills as there is so much more to Accounting than merely processing numbers. At the taster session you will be given the opportunity to assess the financial and social performance of a real business in a fun (yet purposeful) environment. This subject is available to study at A Level (academic course) or AAT (professional course)
BUSINESS BTEC & A-LEVEL
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The business world is constantly changing and over the last 18 months we have seen many businesses disappear from our high streets because of financial problems, selling an out of date product or not understanding what customers want. If you want to find out why this has happened and you think you could do better, then studying a business course will give you an insight into the world of business.
On our popular business courses you will learn about the planning, operating and financial reporting done by businesses, small and large. Each unit uses a series of case studies in which students have to assess the nature of problems and recommend solutions. This subject is available to study at A level (academic course) or BTEC (vocational course)
LAW
Are you interested to know more about how judges make decisions in important cases? Do you want to know more about the role of a barrister and solicitor? This session is designed to give you an idea of the kind of tough issues the law has to deal with every day and how judges attempt to use legal rules to arrive at fair judgements both for defendants, victims and wider society. The course is ideal for students looking to study law at university and those with an inquiring mind keen to develop their critical thinking skills. This subject is available to study at A Level (academic) or BTEC (vocational course).
CATERING & HOSPITALITY PASTA WORKSHOP
Why not come and learn how to produce delicious pasta the professional way? This is a ‘hands on’ practical workshop where you can work with professional chefs. Due to the use of hot fluids no flip flops will be allowed, you must wear a closed shoe or trainer. Please wear comfortable, suitable clothes which cover the torso and shoulders, hair tied back and no jewellery. Personal protective equipment provided. When applying to college there are options to study a variety of catering courses. You can also take an apprenticeship course if you have a job.
6 CHILDCARE, HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE EARLY YEARS CHILDCARE
If you’re interested in working in the Early Years sector or wishing to pursue a career in teaching, education services, early years services and health and social care related careers then come along to find out what we cover. You will be given an overview of course contents and the qualifications required to gain entry to each level. A chance to take part in a practical activity to demonstrate awareness of the type of attitude needed to be an effective early year’s educator. This is a vocational course.
HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE
Are you interested in the Health and Social Care sectors with a career working in nursing, midwifery, healthcare assistant, social work or other caring professions? Would you like to study subjects such as Communicating with individuals, Anatomy and Physiology, Diversity and Rights, Psychology, Nutrition and investigating careers in the health and social care services - looking at how to help people lead a healthier lifestyle and issues relating to adult social care? Come along to the taster and find out about all these areas and more. This can be studied as an A Level or Vocational course.
CONSTRUCTION ARCHITECTURE
Interpret a simple design brief for a new building, produce a quick series of sketches for it, and then use Google Sketch Up to produce a 3D CAD model of your design. If you are interested in this activity you may want to consider the Construction and Built Environment Diploma.
BRICKWORK
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These tasters will give you a chance to see skilled trades which make up the modern construction industry, and to talk to tutors about the opportunities for employment for qualified crafts people. You will be based in the specialist workshops of your chosen trade and will have a chance to try some basic practical work for yourself. GIRLS ARE ESPECIALLY WELCOME ON ALL THESE COURSES. For all construction trades you must wear OLD CLOTHES. Also, please bring any protective clothing you may have, e.g. Overalls, steel toecap boots, workshop gloves, goggles. If you do not have steel toecap boots, please wear sturdy footwear (no trainers etc.) Most construction trades can be studied as full time courses or as an apprenticeship if you have a suitable employer.
CARPENTRY & JOINERY
These tasters will give you a chance to see skilled trades which make up the modern construction industry, and to talk to tutors about the opportunities for employment for qualified crafts people. You will be based in the specialist workshops of your chosen trade and will have a chance to try some basic practical work for yourself. GIRLS ARE ESPECIALLY WELCOME ON ALL THESE COURSES. For all construction trades you must wear OLD CLOTHES. Also, please bring any protective clothing you may have, e.g. Overalls, steel toecap boots, workshop gloves, goggles. If you do not have steel toecap boots, please wear sturdy footwear (no trainers etc.) Most construction trades can be studied as full time courses or as an apprenticeship if you have a suitable employer.
ENGINEERING & ELECTRICAL ELECTRICAL
Electrical Installation If you like practical tasks and have an interest in Maths and Science, electrical installation could be for you. It provides a route to a variety of jobs including domestic installation, large scale industrial projects, aspects of engineering, as well as giving you a way to start your own business or to work abroad. This course will give you a taste of the practical side of the work a professional electrician. We’ll also tell you a bit about the apprenticeship system. Electrical courses can be studied as full time options or as part of an Apprenticeship. GIRLS ARE ESPECIALLY WELCOME ON ALL OUR TASTERS AND COURSES.
8 ENGINEERING: A ROUTE TO UNIVERSITY
If you like Maths and Science, and also have an interest in problem-solving and design, Engineering could be for you. Engineers bring together technical and theoretical learning and turn scientific progress into a reality. The BTEC Engineering Diploma course is a good alternative to A Level study as a route to university for students with an interest in science. You may also be able to take A Level Maths alongside this course. This session will give you an opportunity to understand what BTEC Engineering is like and how it leads into further study and interesting careers. There is also a chance to try some fun practical work, but don’t be confused Engineering is not all about engines! Engineering courses give you a progression route to university or jobs with good prospects and further training. GIRLS ARE ESPECIALLY WELCOME ON ALL OUR TASTERS AND COURSES. Engineers don’t follow the herd, they lead it!
ENGINEERING: THE PRACTICAL ENGINEER
Engineering is a very wide ranging subject including traditional skills in fabrication, welding, use of milling and turning machines etc. It also includes the latest developments such as 3D printers, electronics and computer-aided design. Engineering courses at Level 2 could suit you if you like some practical work but are also interested in Maths and Science. They can also lead on to A Level equivalent courses in Engineering. (see above) This session is a great opportunity to develop some practical skills in a real engineering environment and produce a useful tool. Engineering courses give you a progression route to university or jobs with good prospects and further training. GIRLS ARE ESPECIALLY WELCOME ON ALL OUR COURSES. Engineers don’t follow the herd they lead it! You must wear old clothes. Please bring any protective clothing you may have, e.g. overalls, steel toecap boots, workshop gloves, goggles. If you do not have steel toecap boots, please wear sturdy footwear (no trainers).
9 MOTOR VEHICLE: BODY REPAIR
Body Repair and Refinishing courses suit students who want to develop practical skills such as welding and metal fabrication alongside creative skills needed for paintwork. This taster will give you an opportunity to try your hand at some of the practical activities involved with this part of the motor vehicle accident repair industry and find out more about career pathway options. This can be studied at college as a full time course pathway. You can also take an apprenticeship pathway if you have a job. GIRLS ARE ESPECIALLY WELCOME ON ALL OUR COURSES. You must wear old clothes. Please bring any protective clothing you may have, e.g. overalls, steel toecap boots. If you do not have steel toecap boots, please wear sturdy footwear (no trainers).
MOTOR VEHICLE: MECHANICAL REPAIR
Would you like a career in the maintenance repair sector of the motor industry? We have courses for students at all starting points. All mechanics need to be practical but this is no longer just a career for people with hand skills. As vehicle technology develops the industry is also looking for people with science/maths skills for higher level work leading to better pay. This taster is suitable for all levels. Come and try your hand at some of the practical activities in our workshop and find out more about the options available to you. This can be studied at college as a full time course pathway. You can also take an apprenticeship pathway if you have a job. GIRLS ARE ESPECIALLY WELCOME ON ALL OUR COURSES. You must wear old clothes. Please bring any protective clothing you may have, e.g. overalls, steel toecap boots. If you do not have steel toecap boots, please wear sturdy footwear (no trainers).
10 ENGLISH & MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGES ENGLISH LANGUAGE
ENGLISH LITERATURE
How do words work? What do they do? Why have they been chosen by writers to convey certain meanings? What would studying English Language at this level be like? Come along and find out the answers in this session. You will work in groups and pairs in activities designed to allow students to explore the fascinating mechanics of language.
Enjoy reading? Interested in how writers make us happy or sad, scared or thrilled? This session introduces you to the key questions we ask of fiction, poetry and drama during the A Level course. You will work in pairs and groups on activities designed to investigate texts. We offer A Levels in English Language and English Literature.
FRENCH
Are you interested in communication? Do you want to learn about other cultures and give your career prospects a boost at the same time? Learning a language will give you an insight into other cultures and a wider view of the world. This session is designed to give you a flavour of language learning. We offer French at A Level.
SPANISH
Are you interested in communication? Do you want to learn about other cultures and give your career prospects a boost at the same time? Learning a language at any level will give you an insight into other cultures and a wider view of the world. This session is designed to give you a flavour of language learning. We offer Spanish at A Level.
HAIRDRESSING, BEAUTY & FLORISTRY
BEAUTY THERAPY
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An opportunity to explore the career paths available in Beauty Therapy and try out some of the skills involved in this industry. Please would you wear closed in, low heeled shoes and clothes which are suitable for working in a professional environment, e.g. comfortable/smart/covering the torso. This is a vocational full time course.
FLORISTRY
An opportunity to explore the career paths available in Floristry and try out some of the skills involved in this industry. Please wear closed in, low heeled shoes and clothes which are suitable for working in a professional environment, e.g. comfortable/smart/covering the torso. You will get to learn some basic practical skills such as how to create a corsage for a formal event. This is a vocational full time course.
HAIRDRESSING
Learn about the many and varied career paths open to you in this area. You will also get to learn some basic hands-on practical skills. Please would you wear closed in, low heeled shoes and clothes which are suitable for working in a professional environment, e.g. comfortable/smart/covering the torso. This can be studied at college as a full time course. You can also take an apprenticeship course if you have a job.
12 HUMANITIES GEOGRAPHY
A look at 21st Century issues through a Geographers perspective, covering aspects of physical and human Geography. A look at how this course encourages students to evaluate and reflect on government responses to range of global concerns and the power of individual responsibility.
HISTORY
Do you think history repeats itself? Do you want to know more about the key events that have shaped the last 150 years of global history? Do you like thinking for yourself and challenging received opinions about the present? Then join us for a lively investigation of the past.
PHILOSOPHY
Philosophy focuses on the benefits of thinking and questioning without expecting definite answers. It exercises our intellectual and imaginative abilities, teaches us how to build and evaluate arguments and lets us explore a range of some of the key concepts in philosophy such as how do we gain knowledge, what is a mind and how do we make ethical decisions.
POLITICS
This session will provide different insights into aspects of the world we live in, both past and present and will give you the chance to voice your opinions on the political world we live in. During the session you will experience activities to support your understanding of the subjects.
SOCIOLOGY
This session will help to stimulate your ‘sociological imagination’. Sociology is the study of human social relationships and institutions. Sociology’s subject matter is diverse, ranging from crime to religion, from the family to the state, from the divisions of ethnicity and social class to the shared beliefs of a common culture. We offer Sociology at A level and at GCSE Level.
13 INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY COMPUTER GAMES
Introduction to how computer games are designed and developed, including working through strategies, basic coding, and how to develop a basic game sequence. Also information about computing courses and qualifications that are needed to work in the Games Industry.
COMPUTING / ICT
This will be an entirely practical session where we will use some simple programming to create animations. You do not need any particular skill with computers, just able to use a mouse and a keyboard and have a good imagination! We will also give you some information about the range of ICT and Computing courses on offer.
MATHEMATICS MATHEMATICS
This session will show you that Maths is a challenging subject that will keep your mind sharp and stimulate your imagination. You will be developing your problem solving skills. There is a national shortage of mathematicians at the moment and people with a good qualification in Maths are highly valued in employment and further education. This subject is available to study at GCSE (within the explorer programmes) or A Level. To study A level Mathematics student need to achieve at least a grade B in GCSE Maths. Achieving a good grade in Maths A level requires lots of hard work and practice.
14 MEDIA & DIGITAL MEDIA
MEDIA STUDIES
Ever wanted to design and layout a media product? This taster is designed to introduce students to the visual language of media as well as a practical activity to apply what you have learnt. This is ideal for students wishing to pursue Media Studies at Advanced Level. Media can be studied as an A Level or as a full-time course.
MIDI MUSIC PRODUCTION
A short introduction to manipulating musical midi files using this powerful digital tool; a chance to work with the new technology to experiment with sounds and elements of composition and manipulation. When applying to college there are options to study this as UAL Music Performance and Production courses.
RADIO BROADCASTING
A chance to see for yourself and participate in the workings of a radio station. Working in a small team to compile a show consisting of music, interview and live material. Please bring a memory stick if you want to take your programme home with you. When applying to college there are options to study this subject within the Creative Media Production Diplomas.
TV PRODUCTION
Ever wondered how a live television studio works? This workshop gives aspiring broadcasters a chance to prepare scripts, conduct interviews, operate lights, sound and TV camera equipment as well as basic production and directing (numbers limited). When applying to college there are options to study this subject within the Creative Media Production Diplomas.
15 PERFORMING ARTS
DANCE & MUSICAL THEATRE
This is a combined session of Dance and Musical Theatre. Those interested in Singing will be split from the group half way through the session. All students will be involved in a dance workshop. Both the dance and musical theatre session are practical (so wear suitable clothing which allows you to move freely – not mini-skirts and high heels! You may also need a pen and paper), and will allow you to see how we approach each course. It is expected when you sign up to attend the sessions that you are prepared to involve yourself fully in all activities. This may involve acting, singing and dancing. When applying to college there are options to study a variety of Performing Arts courses covering A Level and BTEC courses. There are no limits on how many Performing Arts courses you take.
DRAMA & THEATRE ACTING
This session is practical (so wear suitable clothing which allows you to move freely), and will allow you to see how we approach each course. It is expected when you sign up to attend the sessions that you are prepared to involve yourself fully in all activities. This will involve a number of different acting activities and skills. You may also need a pen and paper.
STAGE MANAGEMENT
This session will involve a short talk about how the course works; focusing on the need to be highly motivated and organised to succeed. You will also be given a tour of the theatre and technical equipment we use and an explanation of your role backstage. When applying to college there are options to study a variety of Performing Arts courses covering A Level and BTEC courses. There are no limits on how many Performing Arts courses you take.
16 PUBLIC SERVICES PUBLIC SERIVCES
An introduction to the Public Services. You will be introduced to the course, experience a typical scenario of dealing with an incident, be challenged with some problem solving and teamwork task, finishing with command tasks outside. You will need to wear clothes suitable for outdoors such as track suit bottoms and trainers. When applying to college there are options to study this course at various levels.
SCIENCE BIOLOGY
'Can you explain how twins are formed?', or 'how we get our fingerprints?' The key question that underpins biology is 'how does life work?' In Biology you will study a wide range of fascinating topics from the complexity of DNA, to the biochemical actions of proteins in cell membranes; from the workings of the human heart, to studying how nerves conduct electrical impulses; and from culturing bacteria to explaining natural selection. Furthermore, Biology enables you to conduct experiments and develop scientific skills. Many students interested in medicine, biology, physiotherapy or pharmacy study biology. If you’re interested in learning more about the world around you then this session is for you.
BTEC APPLIED SCIENCE
In this session students will be provided with an unknown chemical compound. They will be asked to use analytical techniques to see if they can work out what it may be. BTEC Applied Science students have in the past gone on to study Nursing, Podiatry, Physiotherapy, Environmental Science and Biomedical Science. This course is very much focussed on the student becoming an independent learner. They need to learn to find information for themselves and find out how to apply it in a laboratory or industrial context rather than memorising theory. There is a large amount of practical work where students try to discover how scientific principles work. Assessment is by assignment and examination. BTEC Applied Science would suit students who enjoy scientific practical work and finding things out for themselves.
17 CHEMISTRY
If you love reactions and colour changes then come and find out more about how chemical changes help you to do more and know more. You will experience Bunsen burners, dry ice, explosions and more. A fantastic insight into A Level Chemistry, this taster is a must for anyone interested in the science of matter and reactions and a future career in Chemistry. Anyone who might be interested in a Chemistry-based career should attend this taster or those with a genuine interest but unsure what topics are covered.
PHYSICS
Can you explain how stars are formed? Can you explain how electricity works? Delve into a subject that helps explain how the Universe works! Discover Physics in the real world and the job opportunities open to you in the future. In Physics you will investigate magnetism, static electricity and more. Anyone who might be interested in a Physics -based career should attend this taster or those with a genuine interest but unsure what topics are covered.
PSYCHOLOGY
Why do we behave and think the way we do? How much does nature impact over nurture? Does ‘imprinting’ really work, enabling a rubber glove to be seen as ‘Mum’ to ducklings? Why does our body go into fight or flight mode at the thought of impending exams? Psychology explores human behaviour in a way no other subject can. It’s a science requiring good thinking and analysis, and the subject matter is always interesting! Find out how to analyse research methods of psychologists and develop your own practical skills in research methods. Our students have gone on to have careers in Psychology, Teaching, Advertising or Law.
SPORTS & FITNESS
SPORTS BTEC & A-LEVEL
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In this taster you will be introduced to the world of studying sport through sessions on Sports Psychology and Sports Fitness. Components of Fitness: A classroom based session looking at the various components of fitness and how these link to Fitness Testing and Sports Performance. Classroom based Sports Psychology: A practical workshop that helps you to understand how an athlete copes with pressure or how their personality can affect how they perform. You will also be given a tour of our sports facilities.
SPORTS CSLA
Sports – Leadership Award (CSLA) and Development Squads This is a combined taster covering both of the subjects below. Leadership Award (CSLA). This course is designed for those who want to develop a number of personal qualities, including organisation, administration, communication and confidence. It is designed to suit a range of students, not just those wishing to focus on sport but also careers in medicine, teaching, public services, customer service and business. Classroom meet BUT Practical led session in sports park and tour of facilities. (KIT required). Development Squads – Football, Basketball, Rugby. During this session one of the Team coaches will explain to you the Development Programme at Sussex Downs College, which is an exciting opportunity for enthusiastic players to improve their skills. The session will outline what the Development Squad programme includes, what qualifications can be achieved, expectations of players and time commitments.Classroom meet BUT Practical led session in sports park and tour of facilities. (KIT required). This course is available to study at college and can lead on to the HSLA. Sussex Downs College have a variety of Sports Development courses available to study alongside your main qualification.
19 VISUAL ARTS
BIG DRAW
DARKROOM PHOTOGRAPHY
FINE ART
Like drawing? Come and produce a piece of drawing larger than yourself. Materials will be provided. This session is physically demanding and great fun! You must wear old clothing for this activity. When applying to college there are options to study at A Level or a vocational course.
Despite the onslaught of digital photography during recent years, the darkroom still plays a very important part in the lives of many professional photographers. This workshop gives you a chance to work in the darkroom, printing from black and white negatives and seeing the magic of photochemistry at work and finding out about courses containing photography. All materials and equipment provided. If you have an old negative please feel free to bring it with you. This is an opportunity to find out what you can do with contemporary fine art. There will be practical sessions working with a range of materials, exploring ideas and aiming to bring out your personal expressive qualities. When applying to college there are options to study at A Level or a vocational course.
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Graphic designers work in all areas of visual communication, ranging from illustrating for books and magazines right through to designing new fonts, packaging design and interactive media. This workshop gives you a chance to explore a graphic design problem and find out about courses which allow you to specialise in this very significant part of the creative industries.
TEXTILE PRINTING
An opportunity to experiment with heat transfer printing in the textiles area; bring a design with you to work on, or work from visual resources in the department. This is studied within the Art and Design BTEC and Diploma courses.