AS / A2 Levels
COURSE INFORMATION COURSE INFORMATION 1
AS / A2 Levels
CONTENTS Art and Design (Fine Art) Biology Business Studies Applied Business Studies (Double Award) Chemistry Computing Applied ICT (Double Award) Dance Drama and Theatre Studies Economics English Literature French Geography Geology German Government and Politics Health and Social Care (Double Award) History Mathematics Further Mathematics Media Studies Music Philosophy and Ethics Physical Education Physics Product Design Psychology Science in Society Applied Science (Double Award) Sociology Spanish BTEC Level 3: Sport BTEC Level 2: Health and Social Care
COURSE INFORMATION 2
4 4 5 5 6 6 7 7 8 8 9 9 10 10 11 11 12 12 13 13 14 14 15 15 16 16 17 17 18 18 19 20 20
AS / A2 Levels
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS AS / A2 Courses To study AS / A2 courses, students must have at least six B grades at GCSE. They must also have at least a grade C in both GCSE English and Mathematics. Some subjects have more specific entry requirements, which are outlined in this information booklet. Students will usually study four AS courses in Year 12 with the view to continuing with three of these courses at A2. All students will have the opportunity to take up an additional AS in Critical Thinking, Citizenship or General Studies in Year 13.
BTEC Level 3 and Applied A Level courses To study the BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Sport and any of the Applied A Level courses, students must have at least two B grades and four C grades at GCSE. The BTEC Level 3 in Sport and the Applied A Level courses are equivalent to two A Levels. The courses are more vocational in nature and provide students with the opportunity to complete practical projects. These courses are widely accepted in Higher Education and carry the same number of UCAS points as two A Levels. These courses can be combined with the study of an additional AS in Year 12, which can be continued to A2 in Year 13.
BTEC Level 2 courses To study the BTEC Level 2 in Health and Social Care, students should have two C grades and four D grades at GCSE. The BTEC Level 2 Diploma in Health and Social Care is equivalent to 4 A* - C grades at GCSE. Students completing this course can progress on to the Health and Social Care Applied A Level for a further two years of study, which will give them access to Higher Education.
This booklet is designed to give you more details about the courses that are on offer in the Sixth Form. The courses on offer will run subject to interest and demand.
COURSE INFORMATION 3
AS / A2 Levels
ART AND DESIGN: FINE ART BIOLOGY Examination Board: AQA
Examination Board: OCR
Coursework: 50%
Coursework: 20%
Examination: 50%
Examination: 80%
Specific entry requirements: One of the following is required: a grade C in GCSE Art and Design, a grade C in a related DT subject such as Graphic Products, Textiles or Resistant Materials, or a Distinction in BTEC First Diploma in Art and Design.
Specific entry requirements: Two B grades in GCSE Sciences are essential, although an A grade is recommended. For candidates who have studied Applied Science GCSE, the topics that have been studied will be taken into account.
What will you study? At AS you will experiment with different materials and techniques that are both conventional and unconventional. Processes such as print-making, digital media and 3D making can also form part of your visual practice. You will make connections with the work of other artists from different times, places and cultures, looking at European and nonEuropean examples.
What will you study? At AS you will study modules on cell biology, transport systems in animals and plants, biochemistry, nutrition, health, biodiversity and evolution. You will also participate in a series of practical skills classes involving experiments and investigations linked with the modules of study.
At A2 you will carry out a sustained exploration of a chosen theme and produce a detailed journal analysing your own work and making connections with the practice of others.
At A2 you will study modules on communication, homeostasis, photosynthesis, respiration, biotechnology, genetics, ecology and behaviour. You will also further develop your practical skills and conduct more complex experiments and investigations linked with the modules of study.
What can this course lead to? Studying Fine Art at A Level is the ideal complement to many other course choices. It will stimulate, nurture and inspire students’ creative instincts when applying to Higher Education programmes leading to career paths in disciplines such as painting, sculpture, graphics, fashion, digital media, architecture and interior design.
COURSE INFORMATION 4
What can this course lead to? Through studying Biology at A Level, students will be well prepared for courses in any of the biological, biochemical and biomedical sciences at degree level. In combination with the study of other sciences and mathematics at A Level, students will be well prepared for degree courses in a broad range of scientific disciplines, including medicine, dentistry and veterinary science.
AS / A2 Levels
BUSINESS STUDIES
APPLIED BUSINESS STUDIES (DOUBLE AWARD)
Examination Board: AQA
Examination Board: OCR
Coursework: 0%
Coursework: 67%
Examination: 100%
Examination: 33%
Specific entry requirements: A GCSE in Business Studies would be an advantage but is not essential.
Specific entry requirements: The standard Academy entry requirements apply.
What will you study? At AS you will cover two main topics. The first is called ‘Planning and Financing a Business’ and includes information on the different types of business structure and an introduction to money matters. The second topic is called ‘Managing a Business’ and gives you more knowledge on increasing profits, recruiting and managing employees, operations management (including customer service and technology) and marketing. At A2 you will build on your knowledge-base with a further two topics. The first is ‘Strategies for Success’ and includes financial strategies to improve profits, strategies to take on the competition, operational strategies to improve products and for improving employee relations. These are the four cornerstones of a successful business. The second topic is ‘The Business Environment and Managing Change’. This helps you to plan the vision of a business, and how to deal with the impact of economic, cultural, political or technological changes on an organisation.
What will you study? At AS you will study a total of six units. These will teach you about marketing, recruitment, customer service and finance. You will also learn about using ICT in a business environment as well as how businesses operate. You will develop your presentation skills by producing real business reports and developing marketing strategies. At A2 you will develop your knowledge by studying a further six units. You will look at strategic decision making and the role of management in business. You will have the opportunity to design a business plan for an entrepreneur as well as devising financial and business launch strategies. Overall, this course will give you an excellent overview of the many strategies and processes within a business environment, as well as developing a number of key skills such as creativity, organisation, research and problem solving. What can this course lead to? This course can lead to a wide range of degrees at university as well as careers in business.
What can this course lead to? This course can lead to a wide range of degrees at university as well as careers in business.
COURSE INFORMATION 5
AS / A2 Levels
CHEMISTRY
COMPUTING
Examination Board: OCR
Examination Board: WJEC
Coursework: 20%
Coursework: 33%
Examination: 80%
Examination: 67%
Specific entry requirements: Two B grades in GCSE Sciences are essential, although a grade A is recommended.
Specific entry requirements: A grade B in GCSE Mathematics and ICT is required.
For candidates who have studied Applied Science GCSE, the topics that have been studied will be taken into account. What will you study? At AS you will study atomic structure, chemical reactions, electrons, bonding, chemical structure, the periodic table, basic concepts of hydrocarbons, alcohols, halogenoalkanes, analytical techniques, energy and resources. You will also develop your practical skills in Chemistry. At A2 you will develop a deeper understanding of hydrocarbon rings, carboxylic acids, amines, polymers, chemical synthesis, analytical techniques, rates of reactions, chemical equilibria, pH, energy and transition elements. You will also further develop your practical skills. What can this course lead to? Students can progress to a variety of science degrees, including Chemistry, Medicine, Chemical Engineering, Geology and Biochemistry. This course will also develop a number of highly valued, transferable skills such as the ability to work in groups, application of number and problem solving.
COURSE INFORMATION 6
What will you study? At AS you will perform analysis, design, software development, documentation, testing and evaluation of a system, leading to a solution to a given problem. You will also acquire knowledge and understanding of software, system development, data and applications. At A2 you will acquire additional knowledge and understanding of software, system development, data and applications. You will also analyse, design, implement, test and evaluate a computer solution to a substantial problem of your own choice. What can this course lead to? Students can progress to a university course in a computer science related discipline or employment in the IT sector.
AS / A2 Levels
APPLIED ICT (DOUBLE AWARD)
DANCE
Examination Board: WJEC
Examination Board: AQA
Coursework: 40%
Coursework: 55%
Examination: 60%
Examination: 45%
Specific entry requirements: A grade B or equivalent in GCSE ICT and a grade C in GCSE English is required.
Specific entry requirements: GCSE Dance would be an advantage but is not essential.
What will you study? At AS you will perform an investigation into how businesses and organisations use ICT. You will also produce a solution to a business problem using databases and spreadsheets. You will focus on and investigate standard ways of working and how hardware and software installations are performed. You will also develop an interactive eBook to present a recommendation.
What will you study? At AS Level you will focus on the following: solo choreography, performance of own choreography, performance within a duo / trio, training, technique, health and safety of the dancer and analysis of choreography and performance within a professional repertoire.
At A2 you will investigate and practise skills required to become an effective ICT project manager. You will also develop your skills and expertise in the use of interactive network design software and network management software. What can this course lead to? This course will give students access to Higher Education courses and can lead to employment opportunities in the field of IT.
At A2 you will focus on the following: group choreography, knowledge and understanding of a specific area of study related to the development of one of the following: modern dance, ballet or jazz dance. You will also develop your performance skills related to one of the specific areas of study or to a choreographer of one of the set works. You will enhance your knowledge of training, technique, health and safety of the dancer and complete an analytical study of one set work and its cultural and artistic context. What can this course lead to? This course can lead to a variety of Dance degrees or to more general Arts courses such as musical theatre, performing arts and the creative arts. Dance A Level will nurture and develop transferable skills that are highly valued in today’s competitive job market. These skills include team work, analytical skills, confidence, independent learning, research skills and communication skills.
COURSE INFORMATION 7
AS / A2 Levels
DRAMA AND THEATRE STUDIES
ECONOMICS
Examination Board: EDEXCEL
Examination Board: OCR
Coursework: 40%
Coursework: 33%
Examination: 60%
Examination: 67%
Specific entry requirements: GCSE Drama is preferred but not essential.
Specific entry requirements: A grade B in GCSE Business Studies would be an advantage.
What will you study? At AS you will study two complete plays in depth. You will learn about practitioners from the past and present and you will perform a section of a play, as well as a monologue or duologue. Your acting ability will be challenged and stretched. You will also have the opportunity to see amazing live theatre. At A2 you will work closely as a team to create your own, original piece of drama and perform and market it. You will study one complete play from the point of view of a director and plan rehearsals. You will learn about the history of theatre and how this affects the present and be able to make informed and intelligent connections between them. What can this course lead to? This course can lead to theatre studies at university or to more general arts courses. The subject is also highly complimentary to courses such as History, Psychology, English, Sociology and other arts subjects. Drama and Theatre Studies also nurtures and develops transferable skills that are highly valued in today’s competitive job market, including team work, analytical skills, confidence and public speaking.
COURSE INFORMATION 8
What will you study? At AS you will study topics such as simple microeconomic and macroeconomic market models and use the models to explore current economic behaviour. You will develop an understanding of how the models shed light on the economy as a whole. You will also study the model of supply and demand and be able to explain the way it operates as well as using the model to describe, analyse and predict economic behaviour. You will gain an understanding of markets and the way they may fail, understanding the implications of market failure for individuals, firms and the government. At A2 you will progress on to study the economics of work and leisure, transport economics and the global economy. You will also analyse the possible impact of policy changes on local, national and international economies and the effectiveness of government policies across a range of contexts. Where can this course lead to? This course offers a very good grounding in the field of economics and can lead to a range of Higher Education degrees as well as progression to careers in the business sector. Economics is also useful for students who wish to study Law, International Relations, History or Politics at university.
AS / A2 Levels
ENGLISH LITERATURE
FRENCH
Examination Board: AQA
Examination Board: AQA
Coursework: 40%
Coursework: 0%
Examination: 60%
Examination: 100%
Specific entry requirements: A grade B in GCSE English Literature is required.
Specific entry requirements: A GCSE in French is essential and at least a grade B is highly recommended.
What will you study? At AS you will explore the central position of narrative in the ways that literary texts work, with a particular focus on how narratives are constructed by authors and the different ways in which narratives can be responded to by readers. You will also explore the concept of dramatic genres, with a particular focus on tragedy. At least one of the three texts studied will include a Shakespeare play. At A2 you will build on the concept of genre studied in the AS course, focusing on two broad categories: ‘Elements of the Gothic’ and ‘Elements of the Pastoral’ You will have the opportunity to study a wide range of texts, some of which may be of your own choosing. In addition, you will study critical theories, such as Marxism and Feminism, establishing who has power in the world of the text. What can this course lead to? Students can progress to further study of Llterature at degree level. The course will also develop a number of transferable skills that will be beneficial for both further study and employment.
What will you study? The French A Level specification is designed to encourage students to develop the knowledge and skills acquired at GCSE level and use the language learned in a wide range of contexts. At AS you will study the four following topics: media: TV, advertising and communication technology; popular culture: cinema, music and fashion / trends; healthy living: sport / exercise, health and well-being and holidays; family: relationships within the family, friendships and marriage / partnerships. At A2 you will study four further key topics: environment: pollution, energy and protecting the planet; the multi-cultural society: immigration, integration and racism; contemporary social issues: wealth and poverty, law and order and the impact of scientific and technological progress; cultural topic: the study of a target language speaking region or community. What can this course lead to? Students will gain a useful insight into another culture and reflect on aspects of contemporary society. This qualification encourages foreign travel and enables students to experience the enjoyment and motivation of improving their linguistic level.
COURSE INFORMATION 9
AS / A2 Levels
GEOGRAPHY
GEOLOGY
Examination Board: Edexcel
Examination Board: OCR
Coursework: 0%
Coursework: 20%
Examination: 100%
Examination: 80%
Specific entry requirements: A grade B in GCSE Geography is recommended.
Specific entry requirements: Two B grades in GCSE Sciences are essential, although an A grade is recommended.
What will you study? At AS you will study the causes, impact and management of global challenges. This will include looking at a range of natural hazards, climate change and global warming and the international issues of population change and migration, all of which affect people unfairly around the globe. You will also carry out a study on how physical and human issues influence lives and can be managed. There will be a fieldtrip linked to the crowded coasts and rebranding section of the course. At A2 you will study the use and management of resources, considering the inequalities of consumption, the finiteness of resources and the difficult decisions relating to increased consumption. You will also carry out a piece of more independent geographical research using pre-released material provided by the examination board. What can this course lead to? Students can progress to a range of sciencerelated courses, including Geography, Geology, Environmental Sciences and Natural Sciences. Geography, when taken alongside the other sciences or mathematics, can lead to pure science degree courses or medical courses. The course also develops a wide ranges of transferrable skills, in particular independent research skills, which are beneficial for both further study and employment.
COURSE INFORMATION 10
For candidates who have studied Applied Science GCSE, the topics that have been studied will be taken into account. What will you study? At AS you will study the structure of the Earth, earthquakes, continental drift, sea-floor spreading, plate tectonics, geological structures, the rock cycle, igneous processes, sedimentary processes and metamorphic processes, as well as practical skills in Geology. At A2 you will develop a deeper understanding of water supply, energy resources, metallic mineral deposits, engineering geology, formation of fossils, morphology of fossils, fossil evidence for evolution, dating methods, interpretation of geological maps, changing climate and further practical skills in Geology. What can this course lead to? Students can progress to a variety of science degrees, including Geology, Geography, and Environmental Science. This course will also develop a number of highly valued, transferable skills such as the ability to work in groups, application of number and problem solving.
AS / A2 Levels
GERMAN
GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS
Examination Board: AQA
Examination Board: Edexcel
Coursework: 0%
Coursework: 0%
Examination: 100%
Examination: 100%
Specific entry requirements: A GCSE in German is essential and at least a grade B is highly recommended.
Specific entry requirements: The standard Academy entry requirements apply.
What will you study? The specification is designed to encourage students to develop the knowledge and skills acquired at GCSE level and use the language learned in a wide range of contexts. At AS you will study the four following topics: media: TV, advertising and communication technology; popular culture: cinema, music and fashion / trends; healthy living: sport / exercise, health and well-being and holidays; family: relationships within the family, friendships and marriage / partnerships. At A2 you will study four further key topics: environment: pollution, energy and protecting the planet; the multi-cultural society: immigration, integration and racism; contemporary social issues: wealth and poverty, law and order and the impact of scientific and technological progress; cultural topic: the study of a target language speaking region or community.
What will you study? At AS you will study the basics of the British political system. You’ll learn about the institutions: parliament, cabinet, prime minister. You’ll also study the individuals and organisations that operate within the system: the parties, the pressure groups and others. You will sit two exams at the end of the AS course. At A2 you will compare the US and UK systems. How did the current US system evolve out of the British system of the late 18th century? Is the US President a powerless figure? Is the US Congress the same as the UK Parliament? What role do judges play in both countries? You will sit two exams at the end of the A2 course. What can this course lead to? This course is especially useful for those considering university degrees or careers in many areas, including law, journalism, education social sciences, social policy, public policy, philosophy, political science, international studies and economics.
What can this course lead to? Students will gain a useful insight into another culture and reflect on aspects of contemporary society. This qualification encourages foreign travel and enables students to experience the enjoyment and motivation of improving their linguistic level.
COURSE INFORMATION 11
AS / A2 Levels
HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE (DOUBLE AWARD)
HISTORY
Examination Board: OCR
Examination Board: Edexcel
Coursework: 67%
Coursework: 25%
Examination: 33%
Examination: 75%
Specific entry requirements: The standard Academy entry requirements apply.
Specific entry requirements: A GCSE in History is an advantage but is not essential.
What will you study? Throughout this course you will develop and sustain an interest in health, early-years care and education, social care and issues affecting the care sector. You will develop skills that will enable you to make an effective contribution to the care sector, including skills of research, evaluation and problem-solving in a work related context. At AS you will study modules on health and safety in care settings, caring for people with additional needs, working in early-years care and education, health as a lifestyle choice, complementary therapies and caring for older people. At A2 you will develop your understanding through studying modules on care practice and provision, understanding human behaviour and development, anatomy and physiology in practice, child development, mental-health issues and social trends. You will also develop your research skills through the study of research methods in health and social care. What can this course lead to? This course can lead to a range of opportunities for those looking for a career in child care and development, nursing and working with the elderly. The course will also allow students to progress to a range of related degrees at university.
COURSE INFORMATION 12
What will you study? At AS you will study aspects of British history from an entirely new angle. There are two units. One is a late medieval / early modern study of ‘The War of the Roses’ and ‘The Reign of Henry 7th’ while the other is an in-depth study of ‘Britain 1945-1990.’ Both units lead to an exam. At A2 you will study what happens to countries when corrupt, decaying regimes reach the end of their natural life. You will complete an in-depth study of the causes, events and legacy of ‘The French Revolution 1786-1830’ and ‘The Making of Modern China 1900-2000.’ The former is an exam topic, while the latter is an enquiry leading to a piece of coursework. What can this course lead to? This course is especially useful for those considering university degrees or careers in many areas, including law, accountancy, journalism, education, librarianship, social sciences, social policy, public policy, philosophy, political science, international studies and museums or the heritage sector.
AS / A2 Levels
MATHEMATICS
FURTHER MATHEMATICS
Examination Board: OCR
Examination Board: OCR
Coursework: 0%
Coursework: 0%
Examination: 100%
Examination: 100%
Specific entry requirements: A grade A or above in GCSE Mathematics is preferred.
Specific entry requirements: A grade A or above in GCSE Mathematics is required.
What will you study? At AS you will build on the mathematics studied at GCSE. The main topics covered will include algebra, trigonometry, geometry and calculus. You will also study mechanics or statistics.
What will you study? At AS you will build on the content studied in AS Mathematics, in addition to studying decision mathematics. You will also study mechanics or statistics.
At A2 you will have the chance to take your passion and aptitude for mathematics further. You will look at a variety of topics in pure mathematics that will prepare you for Higher Education and the working world. You will develop the way you think and solve problems. Students with a particular focus on mechanics or statistics will also have an opportunity to study them further.
At A2 you will have the chance to take your passion and aptitude for mathematics further. You will study pure mathematics, mechanics, statistics and decision mathematics at a more comprehensive level.
What can this course lead to? Mathematics is an extremely valuable subject. An AS / A2 Level in Mathematics is regarded highly by universities and employers. It complements the majority of degrees and is required for many science, engineering and finance related courses.
What can this course lead to? Mathematics is an extremely valuable subject. A Further Mathematics qualification is regarded highly by universities and employers. It demonstrates a student’s ability for higher level thinking and strong study skills, as a well as a natural gift in mathematics. It complements the majority of degree courses and is an advantage when applying for science, engineering and finance related degrees.
COURSE INFORMATION 13
AS / A2 Levels
MEDIA STUDIES
MUSIC
Examination Board: OCR
Examination Board: Edexcel
Coursework: 50%
Coursework: 60%
Examination: 50%
Examination: 40%
Specific entry requirements: A GCSE in Media Studies is an advantage but is not essential. A grade B in GCSE English is recommended.
Specific entry requirements: Either a grade C in GCSE Music or an equivalent (ABRSM Grade 5 Theory) is required. Instrumental / Vocal Grade 5 or above is recommended.
What will you study? At AS you will study how one particular media industry operates (e.g Film) and you will develop your critical and textual analysis skills through the study of TV Drama. You will also complete a piece of practical coursework which, as well as developing your practical skills, will teach you how to research, plan and evaluate your work. At A2 you will apply contemporary media theory to your own production work and study a particular media issue in depth. You will also complete a more advanced piece of practical work which will require you to work with a range of different media to produce and present your work. What can this course lead to? Students can progress to a range of media-related degrees such as broadcasting, journalism and marketing. The course will also develop a number of transferable skills that will be beneficial for both further study and employment.
COURSE INFORMATION 14
What will you study? At AS you will prepare and perform a 5-6 minute assessed performance either solo or as part of an ensemble. You will also study composition skills, leading to composing a 3 minute piece in response to a chosen brief. You will develop your musical understanding by studying set works, completing a harmony exercise and listening and appraising a selection of musical genres. At A2 you will produce an extended performance and also complete a composition and technical study. You will submit two compositions or two technical studies, or one composition and one technical study. You will also complete a further detailed study of set works, aural analysis, continuity and change in instrumental music. What can this course lead to? This course provides a very sound basis for any music degree or work within the music profession. Music is widely regarded to be an attractive subject for employers due to the skills it develops, including evaluation, performance, confidence, communication and working with others.
AS / A2 Levels
PHILOSOPHY AND ETHICS
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Examination Board: OCR
Examination Board: OCR
Coursework: 0%
Coursework: 35%
Examination: 100%
Examination: 65%
Specific entry requirements: A grade B in GCSE full or short course Religious Studies and English is recommended but not essential.
Specific entry requirements: A GCSE in Physical Education is an advantage but is not essential.
What will you study? At AS you will study two units: Philosophy of Religion and Religious Ethics. In the Philosophy module you will explore a range of philosophical theories and the development of these theories in the Judaeo-Christian tradition. In the Religious Ethics unit you will study ethical theories from the great philosophers and apply these theories to ethical challenges faced in today’s world. At A2 you will study two further units on Religious Philosophy and Ethics, which will build on the knowledge and information gained in AS. The Philosophy unit will consist of critical enquiry into Religious Language. There will then be further modules exploring religious experience. The final part of the unit will explore miracles in religion and will be a scientific and critical investigation into their validity. What can this course lead to? Students can progress to a wide range of degree courses across a variety of disciplines. Students will develop key critical thinking skills, such as evaluation and analysis, as well as important skills in debate and producing logical and coherent arguments from a variety of viewpoints. In addition to this, students will develop personally by reflecting on their own religious, spiritual and moral opinions and beliefs.
What will you study? At AS you will study a range of topics across three broad areas of Physical Education, namely anatomy and physiology, acquiring movement skills and socio-cultural studies. The ‘Acquiring, developing and evaluating practical skills’ module comprises the 40% of the AS course that is assessed in a practical context. At A2 you will apply your knowledge of a sport in a practical assessment of your role as a performer, coach or official. You will study the historical origins of sport and its development over time, compare sport in a variety of countries, investigate sports psychology and learn about exercise and sport physiology. What can this course lead to? Students can progress to a range of sport-related degrees that can ultimately lead to careers across the broad sport and leisure industry spectrum. Careers in teaching, physiotherapy, sports management, elite performance, fitness training and sports can all be achieved through this pathway.
COURSE INFORMATION 15
AS / A2 Levels
PHYSICS
PRODUCT DESIGN
Examination Board: OCR
Examination Board: AQA
Coursework: 20%
Coursework: 50%
Examination: 80%
Examination: 50%
Specific entry requirements: Two B grades in GCSE Sciences are essential, although a grade A is recommended.
Specific entry requirements: A GCSE in any area of Design and Technology (Product Design, Resistant Materials, Graphics, Textiles, Food, Electronics, Systems and Controls) at grade B or above is an advantage.
For candidates who have studied Applied Science GCSE, the topics that have been studied will be taken into account. What will you study? At AS you will study motion, forces in action, work and energy, electric current, resistance, circuits, waves, quantum physics and practical skills in Physics. At A2 you will develop a deeper understanding of Newton’s laws and momentum, circular motion and oscillations, thermal physics, electric fields, magnetic fields, capacitors, exponential decay, nuclear physics, medical imaging, modelling the universe and further practical skills in Physics. What can this course lead to? Students can progress to a variety of science-related degrees, including Physics, Medicine, Engineering and Mathematics. This course will also develop a number of highly valued, transferable skills such as the ability to work in groups, application of number and problem solving.
COURSE INFORMATION 16
What will you study? At AS you will develop an understanding of the physical and mechanical properties of a broad range of materials and components including both traditional and smart materials. You will also learn about a wide range of manufacturing processes including developing you knowledge of CAD / CAM. You will also complete a design project where you will make a product using the knowledge that you have gained from the rest of the course. At A2 you will build on your knowledge, particularly focusing on developments in technology, product life cycle and illustration techniques. You will also complete a design and make project where you will find a need or gap in the market, develop a design proposal and then manufacture your product, considering how it could be made commercially. What can this course lead to? This course can lead to a range of design-related degrees such as Architecture, Product Design or Graphic Design. It would also be of benefit to students hoping to study engineering or business courses. The course develops a number of key skills including using ICT and decision making.
AS / A2 Levels
PSYCHOLOGY
SCIENCE IN SOCIETY
Examination Board: OCR
Examination Board: AQA
Coursework: 0%
Coursework: 40%
Examination: 100%
Examination: 60%
Specific entry requirements: Two C grades in GCSE Sciences are essential, although a grade B is recommended.
Specific entry requirements: A grade C in GCSE Science is essential, although a grade B is recommended.
What will you study? At AS you will study modules on investigative techniques within the field of psychology, along with modules on psychological approaches, including social, cognitive, physiological, developmental and individual differences. You will also discuss and analyse issues, debates, perspectives and methods arising from the modules of study.
For candidates who have studied Applied Science GCSE, the topics that have been studied will be taken into account.
At A2 you will choose to study modules on applied psychology disciplines, including forensic, clinical, sport and education psychology. You will also participate in classes on approaches and research methods in psychology, where you will be required to design a practical project. What can this course lead to? Through studying Psychology at A Level, students will be well prepared for courses in psychology and other related subjects at degree level. In combination with the study of other sciences and mathematics at A Level, students will be well prepared for degree courses in a broad range of scientific disciplines.
What will you study? At AS you will build upon a body of knowledge already familiar to you from your study of science at GCSE. The course places an emphasis on understanding both ideas about ‘How Science Works’ and broad scientific principles that can together be applied to understanding a range of issues. At A2 you will further develop your knowledge about ‘How Science Works’. You will be given the opportunity to use reasoned debate to demonstrate and apply your grasp of the broad principles and frameworks of ideas within the field of contemporary science and technology. What can this course lead to? This course is designed to enable you to sustain and develop your interest in, and engagement with, science. It will allow you to take an informed interest in media reports about issues and events involving science and technology. You will develop and be able to express an informed, personal point of view on issues concerning science and technology, as well as being able to make use of your understanding of science and technology in everyday contexts and in making decisions about everyday lifestyle choices. This course is well suited to students hoping to pursue a wide range of subjects at degree level.
COURSE INFORMATION 17
AS / A2 Levels
APPLIED SCIENCE (DOUBLE AWARD)
SOCIOLOGY
Examination Board: OCR
Examination Board: AQA
Coursework: 33%
Coursework: 0%
Examination: 67%
Examination: 100%
Specific entry requirements: Two C grades in GCSE Sciences or equivalent Level 2 courses are essential for studying this course.
Specific entry requirements: A grade B in GCSE Religious Education and English is recommended.
What will you study? At AS you will study a variety of topics, including the importance of health and safety, practical techniques and procedures, analytical techniques, energy, circulatory systems, respiratory systems, regulations governing procedures and data management, ethical issues and the structure of cells. You will also learn how to plan investigations and study the work of molecular biologists.
What will you study? At AS you will study two units. The first unit consists of studying research methods and practically exploring methods of collecting data and research. You will look at the formation of group and personal identities within societies and cultures by exploring areas of belief, religion, values, consumerism, globalisation, multiculturalism, subculture and popular culture. In the second unit you will study one of the following in detail: sociology of family, sociology of health, sociology of religion or sociology of education.
At A2 you will develop a deeper understanding of a range of topics including how to plan and carry out investigative work in Science, data processing techniques, types of waves and modern communication systems. What can this course lead to? Students can progress to a variety of HND or degree level courses in science-related subjects. This course will also develop a number of highly valued, transferable skills such as the ability to work in groups, application of number and problem solving.
At A2 you will study a further two modules. The first unit looks at power and control in society and you will study one of the following areas: crime and deviance, education, mass media, power and politics. The second unit explores social inequality and difference. You will study key movements in race and equality throughout the world, both historically and contemporarily. What can this course lead to? Degree subjects and future careers that Sociology A Level students have gone on to study include medical sciences, law, journalism, further academic research and lecturing, teaching and business management.
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AS / A2 Levels
SPANISH Examination Board: AQA Coursework: 0% Examination: 100% Specific entry requirements: A GCSE in Spanish is essential and at least a grade B is highly recommended. What will you study? The Spanish A Level specification is designed to encourage students to develop the knowledge and skills acquired at GCSE level and use the language learned in a wide range of contexts. At AS you will study the four following topics: media: TV, advertising and communication technology; popular culture: cinema, music and fashion / trends; healthy living: sport / exercise, health and well-being and holidays; family: relationships within the family, friendships and marriage / partnerships. At A2 you will study four further key topics: environment: pollution, energy and protecting the planet; the multi-cultural society: immigration, integration and racism; contemporary social issues: wealth and poverty, law and order and the impact of scientific and technological progress; cultural topic: the study of a target language speaking region or community. What can this course lead to? Students will gain a useful insight into another culture and reflect on aspects of contemporary society. This qualification encourages foreign travel and enables students to experience the enjoyment and motivation of improving their linguistic level.
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BTEC Level 3
BTEC Level 2
BTEC LEVEL 3 DIPLOMA: SPORT
BTEC LEVEL 2 DIPLOMA: HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE
Examination Board: Edexcel
Examination Board: Edexcel
Coursework: 100%
Coursework: 100%
Examination: 0%
Examination: 0%
Specific entry requirements: A BTEC or GCSE in Sport / Physical Education is an advantage but is not essential.
Specific entry requirements: The standard Academy entry requirements apply.
What will you study? During the course you will study a range of topics designed to provide education and training for sport employees. Assessment is via a series of assignments that follow a period of study on topics that include anatomy, exercise physiology, exercise psychology, biomechanics, exercise, health and lifestyle, fitness testing, nutrition, coaching practical sport and work experience. What can this course lead to? Students can progress to a range of careers in the sport and leisure industry sector. The vocational nature of the course gives students transferable skills, which equip them to move into leisure, coaching, health and fitness, management, local authority and sports development based careers, amongst others. Students can also secure places at university on an array of sport related degrees.
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What will you study? A BTEC in Health and Social Care offers a practical and relevant start to anyone interested in a career in the caring profession. You will study the following four core modules: communication, individual rights, individual needs and ensuring safe environments in health and social care. You will also study a further four topics chosen from one of the following: vocational experience, cultural diversity, anatomy and physiology, human lifespan development, creative and therapeutic activities, health and social care services and the impact of diet on health and social care. What can this course lead to? This course can lead to junior level positions in a wide variety of career areas, including care homes, nursing, occupational therapy, chiropody, social and community work and counselling. Successful completion of the course will allow you to progress to Applied A Level Health and Social Care and then Higher Education courses.