SIXTH FORM
At St Cuthbert’s for Year 12 entry in September 2025, we intend to offer the following academic courses.
FINE ART
If you have a creative and experimental nature and are inspired and interested in the visual world or wanting to pursue a career in any of the creative industries, be it architecture or games design then this course is a great choice for you. Fine Art allows you to explore and investigate a wide range of practices and processes using specialised equipment within a highly successful department. Fine Art allows you the opportunity to develop ideas along creative trains of thought and develop skills in relation to your interest and preferences.
After A Level Fine Art: Fine Art can lead to a career in any of the artistic industries including, but not limited to: Artist, Designer, Illustrator, Interior Designer, Graphic Designer, Games Designer, Architect.
An A Level in Fine Art requires and develops the following skills:
▪ experience of artistic practices
▪ painting
▪ drawing
▪ sculpture
In Year 12 you will study:
▪ photography
▪ independence
▪ research
▪ Introductory project - investigating a range of artistic practices and disciplines. You will be expected to research the work of artists relevant to your intentions and develop their work in a personal and informed manner, leading to a personal outcome.
▪ Personal investigation - this is 60% of the overall A-level and is a self-directed project. The project will run until February of year 13. The project must cover all 4 assessment objectives, as well as include a 2000-3000 word essay.
In Year 13 you will study:
▪ Personal investigation - this is 60% of the overall A-level and is a self-directed project. The project starts in year 12 and runs until February of year 13. The project must cover all 4 assessment objectives, as well as include a 2000-3000 word essay.
▪ Externally set assignment – this is 40% of the overall A-level. Students must choose from a selection of 7-8 titles set by AQA and create a project of their choosing that covers the 4 assessment criteria. The externally set assignment concludes with a 15-hour controlled assessment.
How is this course examined?
All work is internally assessed by department staff before being externally moderated by AQA.
▪ Externally set assignment - students must produce a body of work that relates to an externally set title (choice of topics). The assignment concludes with a 15-hour controlled assessment. The unit is internally marked by department staff before being externally moderated by AQA.
This is an examination and is worth 40% of the overall grade.
▪ Personal investigation – students must produce a body of work along a personal theme. The unit should demonstrate a variety of approaches and explore various concepts. It must also include a 2000–3000-word essay.
This is coursework and is worth 60% of the overall grade.
Examination Board Specification Code
Who can I speak with about this course?
If you are interested in this course, please speak with Mr Warner, Head of Art or any member of the Art Department.
ART – 3D DESIGN (CERAMICS)
If you have a creative and experimental nature and are inspired and interested in the visual world or wanting to pursue a career in any of the creative industries, be it architecture or urban designer, then this course is a great choice for you. 3D Design (ceramics) allows you to explore and investigate a wide range of practices and processes using specialised equipment within a highly successful department. 3D Design allows you the opportunity to develop ideas along creative trains of thought and develop skills in relation to your interest and preferences.
After 3D Design Ceramics: 3D Design can lead to a career in any of the artistic industries, including but not limited to: Artist, Designer, Illustrator, Interior Designer, Graphic Designer, Games Designer, and Architect.
An A Level in 3D Design (ceramics) requires and develops the following skills:
▪ experience of artistic practices
▪ painting
▪ drawing
▪ sculpture
In
Year 12 you will study:
▪ photography
▪ independence
▪ research
▪ ceramics
▪ Introductory project - investigating a range of artistic and ceramic practices and disciplines, such as hand building, coiling, slab and wheel work. You will be expected to research the work of artists relevant to your intentions and develop their work in a personal and informed manner, leading to a personal outcome.
▪ Personal investigation - this is 60% of the overall A Level and is a self-directed project. The project will run until February of year 13. The project must cover all 4 assessment objectives, as well as include a 2000–3000-word essay.
In Year 13 you will study:
▪ Personal investigation - this is 60% of the overall A Level and is a self-directed project. The project starts in year 12 and runs until February of year 13. The project must cover all 4 assessment objectives, as well as include a 2000–3000-word essay.
▪ Externally set assignment – this is 40% of the overall A Level. Students must choose from a selection of 7-8 titles set by AQA and create a project of their choosing that covers the 4 assessment criteria. The externally set assignment concludes with a 15-hour controlled assessment.
How is this course examined?
All work is internally assessed by department staff before being externally moderated by AQA.
▪ Externally set assignment - students must produce a body of work that relates to an externally set title (choice of topics). The assignment concludes with a 15 hour controlled assessment. The unit is internally marked by department staff before being externally moderated by AQA.
This is an examination and is worth 40% of the overall grade.
▪ Personal investigation – students must produce a body of work along a personal theme. The unit should demonstrate a variety of approaches and explore various concepts. It must also include a 2000–3000-word essay.
This is coursework and is worth 60% of the overall grade.
Examination Board
Who can I speak with about this course?
Specification Code
If you are interested in this course, please speak with Mr Warner, Head of Art or any member of the Art Department.
BIOLOGY
Biology is a fascinating subject, the study of which will see you learn about the natural world and all the living things within it. Gaining an A Level in this subject opens up a vast range of opportunities for both university degrees and career options, many of which can take you all around the world. Students choose Biology for a number of reasons perhaps they have a specific career that requires a Biology qualification in mind, or maybe they are simply interested in the human body, or in the natural world around us.
After A Level Biology:
▪ Science and Research: Biochemist, Biotechnologist, Geneticist, Forensic Scientist, Pharmacologist, Zoologist, marine biologist, microbiologist, toxicology, botanist.
▪ Medicine and Healthcare: Medicine, Veterinarian, Dentistry, Nursing, Pharmacist.
▪ Agriculture: Ecologist, Farming, Landscaping, conservationist, environmental management.
▪ Sports and Fitness: Personal Trainer, Profession Sportsperson, Physiotherapist, Nutritionist, Food Science
▪ Engineering: Biological/Biomedical Engineer, Biochemical engineer, Civil engineer, Mechanical Engineer, Environmental Engineer/Scientist, Biomedical Engineer.
▪ Emergency Services: Paramedic, CSI, Police Officer.
An A Level in Biology requires and develops the following skills:
▪ analytical skills
▪ practical skills
▪ research
▪ interpret data
▪ problem solving
▪ observational skills
In Year 12 you will study:
▪ biological molecules
▪ cells
▪ evaluation skills
▪ organisational
▪ understand scientific methods
▪ communication
▪ resilience
▪ teamwork
▪ organisms exchange substances with their environment
▪ genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms
In Year 13 you will study:
▪ energy transfers in and between organisms
▪ organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environments
▪ genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems
▪ the control of gene expression
How is this course examined?
External examinations which are worth 100% of the grade.
There are 12 required practicals to achieve Practical Endorsement – these are not examined.
Examination Board
Specification Code
AQA 7401/2
Who can I speak with about this course?
If you are interested in this course, please speak with Dr Hartness, Head of Science or any member of the Biology Department.
BUSINESS A-LEVEL
A knowledge of business is becoming more and more relevant in society today, even just to help you understand the world you live in! The course content is dynamic –just as the world does not stand still, neither does the course content. As a student once said, “Business keeps me up to date with what’s going on in the world and allows you to be a step ahead at all times”.
After A Level Business: Business can lead to a career in the business industries including, but not limited to: Banking and Finance, Sales, Operations Management, Business Management
An A level in Business requires and develops the following skills:
▪ Critical Analysis
▪ Decision making
▪ Problem solving
▪ Strategic
In Year 12 you will study
Theme 1: Marketing and People
▪ meeting customer needs
▪ the market
▪ marketing mix and strategy
▪ managing people
▪ entrepreneurs and leaders.
Theme 4: Global Business
▪ Presentation Skills
▪ Communication Skills
▪ Adaptability
▪ Mathematical skills
▪ this theme develops the concepts introduced in Theme 1
In Year 13 you will study
Theme 2: Managing Business Activities
▪ raising finance
▪ financial planning
▪ managing finance
▪ resource management
▪ external influences
Theme 3: Business decisions and strategy
• This theme develops the concepts introduced in Theme 2
How is this course examined?
External examinations which are worth 100% of the grade.
Paper 1: Marketing, people and global businesses 35%
Paper 2: Business activities, decisions and strategy 35%
Paper 3: Investigating business in a competitive environment 30%
Examination Board
Specification Code
Edexcel 9BSO
Who can I speak with about this course?
If you are interested in this course, please speak with Miss Blackall, Head of Business Studies or any member of the Business Studies Department.
BUSINESS
Students develop relevant business and transferable skills through hands-on experience, preparing them for further study or the world of work.
After A Level Business Studies: Business Studies can lead to careers in, but not limited to: Banking and Finance, Management, Human Resources and Marketing.
An A level in Business CTEC requires and develops the following skills:
▪ Independence
▪ Research
▪ Problem solving
▪ Organisation and planning
In Year 12 you will study:
▪ Unit 1: The business environment
▪ Unit 2: Working in business
▪ Unit 5: Marketing and market research
In Year 13 you will study:
▪ Unit 4: Customers and communication
▪ Unit 8: Introduction to human resources
How this course is examined:
▪ Unit 1: The business environment
▪ Unit 2: Working in business
▪ Presentation Skills
▪ Communication Skills
▪ Mathematical skills
▪ Analysis
External examinations which are worth 44.4% of the grade.
▪ Unit 5: Marketing and market research
▪ Unit 4: Customers and communication
▪ Unit 11: Accounting Concepts
Coursework is 55.6% of the grade.
Who can I speak with about this course?
If you are interested in this course, please speak with Miss Blackall, Head of Business Studies or any member of the Business Studies Department.
CHEMISTRY
Chemistry is the subject which connects the physical sciences, like Physics and maths, with the applied sciences such as Engineering, Biology and Medicine. The subject is all around us and the study of Chemistry can help answer many questions about everyday life. Chemists all over the world are working on issues which impact us all, such as sustainable energy, human health and climate change. With a career in Chemistry you could help to develop a life-saving vaccine, develop a biodegradable plastic or invent a way to cut air pollution.
After A Level Chemistry: Chemistry can lead to careers in, but not limited to: Medicine, Dentistry, Forensic Science, Geochemistry, Research & Development, Pharmacy, Chemical Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, Nanotechnologist, Toxicologist, Law
An A level in Chemistry requires and develops the following skills:
▪ Teamwork
▪ Analytical
▪ Numerical
▪ Problem solving
▪ Critical thinking
In Year 12 you will study:
▪ Atomic Structure
▪ Bonding
▪ Nomenclature
▪ Isomerism
▪ Reactions of Alkanes, alkenes, alcohols and haloalkanes
▪ Organic analysis
▪ Amount of substance
In Year 13 you will study:
▪ Thermodynamics
▪ Kinetics
▪ Equilibrium constant
▪ Electrode potentials and cells
▪ Acids, bases and buffers
▪ Periodicity
▪ The transition metals
▪ Carbonyl compounds Aromatic chemistry
▪ Logical thinking
▪ Communication
▪ Time management
▪ Practical
▪ Energetics
▪ Kinetics
▪ Equilibria
▪ Redox
▪ Periodicity
▪ The alkaline earth metals
▪ The halogens
▪ Practical skills
▪ Amines
▪ Polymerisation
▪ Amino acids, proteins and DNA
▪ Organic synthesis and analysis
▪ Structure determination
▪ Chromatography
▪ Practical skills
How this course is examined:
External examinations are worth 100% of the grade, three two-hour examinations at the end of Year 13
Coursework contributes to the practical endorsement not the examination grade: To achieve the certificate for the A level Chemistry practical endorsement you must complete a series of practical activities designed to help you develop your practical skills and prove you are competent against all the Common Practical Assessment Criteria (CPAC). Examination
Who
can I speak with about this course?
If you are interested in this course, please speak with Dr Hartness, Head of Science, or any member of the Chemistry Department.
COMPUTER SCIENCE
Computer scientists make the world better. As we live in a digital age, most industries rely on data and software programmes. Computer Science and IT impacts everything, from scientific research to health development. Transport, banking, and communications. Taking a computing course will be valuable to any industry in the future.
After A Level Computer Science: Computer Science can lead to careers in, but not limited to: Application analyst, Applications developer, Cyber security analyst, Data analyst, Database administrator, Forensic computer analyst, Game designer, Games developer.
An A level in Computer Science requires and develops the following skills:
▪ Independence
▪ Research
▪ Problem solving
▪ Organisation and planning
In Year 12 you will study:
Computer systems (01)
▪ Presentation skills
▪ Communication skills
▪ Mathematical skills
▪ Analysis
▪ The characteristics of contemporary processors, input, output and storage devices
▪ Software and software development
▪ Programming
▪ Exchanging data
▪ Data types, data structures and algorithms
▪ Legal, moral, ethical and cultural issues
Algorithms and programming (02)
▪ Elements of computational thinking
▪ Problem solving and programming
▪ Algorithms
In Year 13 you will study:
Computer systems (01)
▪ The characteristics of contemporary processors, input, output and storage devices
▪ Software and software development
▪ Exchanging data
▪ Data types, data structures and algorithms
▪ Legal, moral, cultural and ethical issues
Algorithms and programming (02)
▪ Elements of computational thinking
▪ Problem solving and programming
▪ Algorithms
Programming project (03)
▪ Non-examination assessment.
How this course is examined:
Paper 1: 40% - Computer systems (01): 140 marks, 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Paper 2: 40% - Algorithms and programming (02): 140 marks, 2 hours and 30 minutes.
External examinations which are worth 80% of the grade.
Programming project
Coursework is 20% of the grade.
Who can I speak with about this course?
If you are interested in this course, please speak with Mr Bolam, Head of Computer Science or any member of the Computer Science Department.
ADVANCED NATIONAL IN IT: DATA ANALYTICS
Through studying this course, you will develop the following skills:
▪ Planning, developing and reviewing spreadsheet data models that meet the needs of a client.
▪ Planning, developing and reviewing relation databases that meet the needs of a client.
▪ Planning, communicating and reviewing Internet of Everything (IoE) solutions that meet the needs of a client.
▪ Planning, developing and reviewing data visualisation solutions through the use of data dashboards that meet the needs of a client.
▪ Planning, developing and reviewing digital marketing campaigns that meet the needs of a client.
After Advanced National IT: This can lead to careers in, but not limited to: Software developer, Systems analyst, Business analyst, IT support analyst, Network engineer, IT consultant, Technical sales representative, Project manager.
An A level in Advanced IT requires and develops the following skills:
▪ Essentials of IT
▪ The importance of legal and security considerations
▪ Communication skills
▪ Analytical skills
▪ Cyber Security
In Year 12 you will study:
▪ F200 Fundamentals of data analytics
▪ F201 Big data and machine learning
In Year 13you will study:
▪ F202 Spreadsheet modelling
▪ F204 Data and the Internet of Everything
▪ F206 Data and digital marketing
How this course is examined:
▪ Project management
▪ Problem solving
▪ IT infrastructure on a global scale
▪ Organisational skills
▪ Research skills
External examinations which are worth 50% of the grade.
Two externally assessed examinations in F200 and F2001.
Internally assessed coursework in units F202, F204 and F206.
Coursework is 50% of the grade.
Examination Board
Specification Code
OCR 610/3997/4
Who can I speak with about this course?
If you are interested in this course, please speak with Mr Bolam, Head of Computer Science or any member of the Computer Science Department.
DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY
This course equips students with design skills for the future. They will be able to recognise design needs and develop an understanding of how current global issues, including integrating technology, impacts on today’s world.
After A Level Design and Technology: This can lead to careers in, but not limited to: Product Design, Architecture, Engineering industries, Furniture design.
An A level in Design and Technology requires and develops the following skills:
▪ creativity
▪ resilience
▪ time management
▪ innovation
In Year 12 you will study:
Principles of Design and Technology
Topics 1-7:
1: Materials
2: Performance characteristics of materials
3: Processes and techniques
4: Digital technologies
communication
collaboration
empathy
adaptive
5: Factors influencing the development of products
6: Effects of technological developments
7: Potential hazards and risk assessment
Design and Make Skills
Investigation, design and development skills project – Collapsible chair project Planning, manufacturing, and testing project – architectural modelling.
In Year 13 you will study
Principles of Design and Technology
Topics 8-12:
8: Features of manufacturing industries
9: Designing for maintenance and the cleaner environment
10: Current legislation
11: Information handling, Modelling and forward planning
12: Further processes and techniques.
Independent Design and Make Project
Students will produce a substantial design, make and evaluate project which consists of portfolio and a prototype. There are four parts to the assessment covering the identification of a design problem, developing the design, making the prototype and evaluating both the design and the final prototype.
How this course is examined:
Written examination. Examination 2hrs 30 mins, 120 marks.
The paper includes calculations, short-open and open-response questions, as well as extended-writing questions.
External examinations which are worth 50% of the grade.
Non-examined assessment. 120 marks.
The investigation report is internally assessed and externally moderated.
Coursework is 50% of the grade.
Examination Board
Specification Code
Edexcel 9DTO
Who can I speak with about this course?
If you are interested in this course, please speak with Miss Alexander, Head of Design and Technology or any member of the Design and Technology Department.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE
A Level English Language is a very useful, interesting, and enjoyable course. It is a wide-ranging course in which you study language in a wide range of contexts that will broaden your horizons and help you to appreciate how language is used to shape and represent the world. Language is a powerful tool, and you will become more skilled in appreciating how it is used to persuade or entertain or create social bonds. You will also become more skilled in expressing yourself through language and communicating your meaning clearly. Students are always glad they took this course, and it opens their eyes to new ways of looking at the world and at life.
After A Level English Language: Any career in which clear and effective communication is a key skill such as the media, marketing, journalism, public relations within any company, advertising, creative industries.
The skills you learn are also useful for any analytical jobs such as engineering or data analysis. Teaching: passing on your love of language to future generations and helping them to become more skilled and knowledgeable users of English.
An A level in English Language requires and develops the following skills:
▪ analytical skills
▪ compare texts, noticing similarities and differences
▪ understand concepts, issues and theories related to language use
▪ using appropriate language methods and terminology
In Year 12 you will study:
▪ introduction to language study
▪ dialect, accent and Standard English
▪ attitudes to language
▪ language and representation
▪ developing expertise as a writer, using language to communicate clearly in a range of forms, to suit audience and purpose
▪ relating language to contextual factors
▪ produce original creative writing
▪ language and occupations/ Language and power
▪ language and
▪ world Englishes
▪ Non-Examined Assessment (coursework): Original creative writing piece – Can you write an effective … story, opinion article, review, speech, etc.
In Year 13 you will study:
▪ the development of English over time
▪ language change
▪ the process of codification
▪ informalisation in the 20th century
▪ child language development
▪ Non-Examined Assessment (coursework): Language Investigation – Can you independently explore a language area of your choice using appropriate linguistic methods?
▪ Examinations skills and revision – How do I maximise marks in the examinations?
How this course is examined:
Written examination.
Two examinations: Paper 1 Language, the Individual and society; Paper 2 Language Diversity and Change
External examinations which are worth 80% of the grade.
Two pieces: A 2000-word language investigation on a language topic of your choice (10%).
Coursework is 20% of the grade.
A piece of original writing, such as a story, a review, an opinion article, a speech etc and a commentary on your own writing (10%).
Examination Board
Who can I speak with about this course?
If you are interested in this course, please speak with Mr Stewart, Head of English, or any member of the English Department.
ENGLISH LITERATURE
The course explores what it is to be human and encourages you to explore literature as the lifeblood of culture. You have so much opportunity to explore richly diverse literary texts from different periods of history and from different cultures. The course is also carefully designed to explore voices from different genders, as well as encouraging you to voice your opinions by critically evaluating what authors say and how readers have responded.
The study of Literature is the amalgamation of a range of different subjects, including psychology, philosophy, theology, history, and sociology. This interdisciplinary approach to studying literature will allow you to appreciate the power of literature and its significance within culture.
After A Level English Literature: As well as helping you progress to a range of higher education courses such as journalism, media, education, history, English, and drama, an A Level in English literature can lead to exciting careers in: Law, Advertising, Marketing, PR, Social media, Journalism, Civil service and many more.
An A level in English Literature requires and develops the following skills:
▪ problem solving
▪ resilience and adaptability
▪ analytical
▪ critical thinking
▪ self-management (organisation, reflection)
▪ empathy
In Year 12 you will study:
▪ Component 1: Drama
▪ Component 2: Prose
In Year 13 you will study:
▪ Component 3: Poetry
▪ Component 4: Independent coursework
How this course is examined:
▪ oral communication
▪ creativity
▪ theoretical application
▪ written communication
▪ teambuilding
▪ presentational
External examinations which are worth 80% of the grade.
Written examination.
▪ Component 1: Drama (60 marks, 30% of A level)
Section A: Shakespeare (35 marks)
Section B: other drama (25 marks)
▪ Component 2: Prose (40 marks, 20% of A level)
One essay on the supernatural. Draculaand Beloved.
▪ Component 3: Poetry (60 marks, 30% of A level)
Section A: 21st century poetry (30 marks)
Section B: poetry from a historical period (30 marks)
An exciting opportunity to study any area of literature that interests you that may not have been covered in your studies at GCSE and A level. You will produce a comparative essay of 2500-3000 words where you critically engage and compare two texts of your choice.
Coursework is 20% of the grade.
Examination Board
Specification Code
Edexcel 9ET0
Who can I speak with about this course?
If you are interested in this course, please speak with Mr Stewart, Head of English, or any member of the English Department.
FRENCH
French A Level can be an enriching addition to your other A Level subjects. It enhances your cognitive abilities, social skills, and overall literacy, and increases your employability. In a global context, languages are vital to a country’s capacity to interact with the wider world and establish cultural and commercial relationships. In the last 5 years, it was estimated that the UK was losing out on £4.8bn every year because of its lack of language skills.
After A Level French: This can lead to careers in, but not limited to: Translator, Marketing, Teaching English as a foreign language, Interpreter, International relations, Copywriter, Travel and Tourism, Teaching, Editorial assistant.
An A level in French requires and develops the following skills:
▪ communication
▪ independent learning
▪ critical thinking
▪ resilience
In Year 12 you will study:
▪ research skills
▪ social skills
▪ creativity
▪ cultural awareness
▪ French society including family structure, education and work
▪ Political and artistic culture including music, media and traditions
▪ Critical study of a literary text: l’Étranger by Albert Camus
In Year 13 you will study:
▪ Immigration and the multicultural French society including the challenges and benefits of immigration and the rise of the extreme right
▪ History: Occupation and Resistance including anti-Semitism and General de Gaulle
▪ Critical study of a film: La Haine by Mathieu Kassovitz
How this course is examined:
External examinations which are worth 100% of the grade.
40% - Listening, reading and translation
30% - Written response to literary text and film
30% - Speaking (prepared in advance as a project) Examination
Who can I speak with about this course?
If you are interested in this course, please speak with Mrs Patterson, Head of Modern Foreign Languages or any member of the Modern Foreign Languages Department.
GEOGRAPHY
This challenging and interesting course covers a diverse range of content from volcanic activity to health and well-being. It is taught by subject specialists who are experts in their field; always looking for ways to update and adapt their teaching to ensure that the subject remains topical and current. There are opportunities for fieldwork and wider studies which take learning outside of the classroom. The skills developed within the Geography course in literacy, computing and analysis are transferable to students’ next steps after sixth form.
After A Level Geography: Geography is one of the most employable subjects. It is a desirable subject for many employers due to the huge range of content and skills covered throughout. Examples of career sectors include Hazard Management, Climatology, Meteorology, Environmental Science, Urban Planning, Transport, Social Work, Education, Tourism, (Geographical Information Systems) GIS Analysis, Economics, Politics, Sociology.
An A level in Geography requires and develops the following skills:
▪ geospatial knowledge
▪ evaluation
▪ ICT skills
▪ interpretation and analysis of information
▪ cartographic skills (maps)
In Year 12 you will study:
Physical Geography:
▪ Hazards
▪ Coastal Systems and Landscapes
Human Geography:
▪ Contemporary Urban Environments
▪ Changing Places
In Year 13 you will study:
Physical Geography:
▪ Water and Carbon
Human Geography:
▪ geographical Information Systems
▪ critical questioning
▪ graphical skills
▪ data Analysis
▪ communication
▪ statistical skills
▪ Global Systems and Governance
▪ Non-Examined Assessment
How this course is examined:
External examinations which are worth 80% of the grade.
Written examination.
▪ Two 2hr30min examinations: x1 Physical, x1 Human
▪ 50% of the papers are x3 20-mark essay questions
▪ Each paper is worth 120 marks
Coursework is 20% of the grade.
▪ Independent Investigation and write up
Examination Board
Who can I speak with about this course?
Specification Code
If you are interested in this course, please speak with Miss Jenkinson, Head of Geography or any member of the Geography Department.
HISTORY
History is a well-respected A Level that will allow progression into a wide range of careers. It offers an excellent opportunity to develop a depth of historical knowledge of crucial and interesting periods in History. It also gives you the opportunity and support to develop a sophistication to your writing.
After A Level History: The skills that you gain from completing a History A Level are widely transferable and well thought of by both universities and future employers. Careers where History can be of particular use are: education, journalism, historic building surveyor, museum curator, museum exhibitions officer, academic librarian, archaeologist, archivist, broadcast journalist, civil Service administrator, editorial assistant, information officer, politician's assistant and solicitor.
An A level in History requires and develops the following skills:
▪ extended writing
▪ independent study skills
▪ debate
▪ analysis
▪ forming a judgement
In Year 12 you will study:
▪ summarise primary sources
▪ outline main arguments
▪ evaluation
▪ critical reasoning
Breadth study: The Tudors: England 1485-1603.
▪ How did the Tudors consolidate their authority over England?
▪ How does domestic and foreign policy change in the early Tudor years?
▪ What impact do religious changes have on the stability of England?
Depth Study: Revolution and Dictatorship: Russia 1917-53.
▪ How did the Bolsheviks gain and consolidate power?
▪ How did Lenin’s leadership impact Russia?
▪ How did Stalin come to power?
In Year 13 you will study:
Breadth study: The Tudors: England 1485-1603.
▪ Was there a Mid-Tudor crisis?
▪ How does religion cause division and rebellion in Tudor England?
▪ Was there a golden age in Elizabethan England?
Depth Study: Revolution and Dictatorship: Russia 1917-53.
▪ How did Stalinism change the USSR?
▪ What impact did World War Two have on the USSR?
▪ What was USSR’s approach to foreign policy?
How this course is examined:
External examinations which are worth 80% of the grade.
Written examination.
▪ You will sit two, 2 hour and 30-minute examinations at the end of Year 13. One per each component.
Coursework is 20% of the grade.
▪ On American History. This is assessed through the completion of a 3,500- 4, 000word essay.
Examination Board
Who can I speak with about this course?
Specification Code
If you are interested in this course, please speak with Mrs Casey, Head of History or any member of the History Department.
MATHEMATICS
We highly recommend this course as it will deepen your understanding of mathematics and enable to continue your enthusiasm for the subject. A Level Mathematics will equip you with very specific skills, amongst them logical thinking, reasoning and the ability to construct logical arguments. The subject is highly desirable when applying for university courses, as a prerequisite A Level in many cases.
After A Level Mathematics: This can lead to careers in, but not limited to: Accountancy, Finance, Banking, Statisticians, Engineering, Actuarial Science, Medicine.
An A level in Mathematics requires and develops the following skills:
▪ logical thinking
▪ analytical skills
▪ problem solving
▪ resilience
▪ critical thinking
In Year 12 you will study:
▪ proof
▪ indices and Surds
▪ quadratic Functions
▪ polynomials
▪ logarithms
In Year 13 you will study:
▪ proof
▪ functions
▪ sequences and series
▪ rational functions and partial fractions
▪ differential equations
How this course is examined:
▪ reasoning
▪ construct logical arguments
▪ communication
▪ time management
▪ exponential models
▪ trigonometric geometry
▪ calculus
▪ statistical hypothesis testing
▪ forces, motion & acceleration
▪ radian measure
▪ further calculus
▪ general binomial expansion
▪ the normal distribution & hypothesis testing
▪ projectiles and poments
External examinations which are worth 100% of the grade.
Three Examinations in Year 13, equally weighted. Each examination is 2 hours long.
▪ Pure Maths – 100 Marks
▪ Pure and Mechanics - 100 Marks
▪ Pure Maths & Statistics – 100 Marks
Who can I speak with about this course?
If you are interested in this course, please speak with Mr Knowles, Head of Mathematics or any member of the Mathematics Department.
FURTHER MATHEMATICS
We recommend this course to those students who are intuitive mathematicians with a desire to challenge themselves and become highly analytical in the process. The Further Maths A Level will consolidate and develop Mathematics A Level and ensure you have a sophisticated understanding of mathematical ideas and techniques. This A Level is highly desirable for entry to any degree with a high mathematical element.
After A Level Further Mathematics: This can lead to careers in, but not limited to: Accountancy, Finance, Banking, Statisticians, Engineering, Actuarial Science, Medicine, Software Developer, Astronomer, Meteorologist.
An A level in Further Mathematics requires and develops the following skills:
▪ logical thinking
▪ analytical skills
▪ problem solving
▪ resilience
▪ critical thinking
In Year 12 you will study:
▪ complex numbers
▪ matrices and their inverses
▪ induction
▪ complex numbers
▪ vectors & 3D space
In Year 13 You will study:
▪ vectors
▪ series and induction
▪ further calculus
▪ polar coordinates
▪ maclaurin series
How this course is examined:
▪ reasoning
▪ construct logical arguments
▪ communication
▪ time management
▪ discrete & continuous random variables
▪ bivariate data
▪ chi squared tests
▪ the normal distribution
▪ hypothesis testing
▪ hyperbolic functions
▪ 1st and 2nd Order Differential Equations
▪ kinematics
▪ forces & motion
External examinations which are worth 100% of the grade.
Four Examinations in Year 13, equally weighted. Each exam is 90 minutes long.
▪ Pure Core 1 – 75 Marks
▪ Pure Core 2 – 75 Marks
Who can I speak with about this course?
If you are interested in this course, please speak with Mr Knowles, Head of Mathematics or any member of the Mathematics Department.
MUSIC
‘It’s just dots and dashes until you play it.’ Music iswell respected and accepted by all top Universities. It is academically rigorous. The music industry is worth 4 billion to the UK economy each year. It is fulfilling and challenging. There are more opportunities for jobs and Universities than you may first think. It broadens horizons. Music is Science, an Art and a Foreign language.
An A level in Music requires and develops the following skills:
▪ higher level Musical theory
▪ musical analysis
▪ essay writing
▪ performance skill
▪ historical contexts
In Year 12 you will study:
▪ Baroque Concerto - Purcell – Vivaldi
▪ Classical Music - Mozart Focus
▪ compositional craft
▪ aural listening skills
▪ artist and genre analysis
▪ ensemble work
▪ Pop Music – Artists; Stevie Wonder, Joni Mitchell, Beyoncé,
▪ Jazz – Artists; Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington,
▪ Performing – Producing a program of musical performance
▪ Composition – Free composition with A Level technical skill
▪ Students will record a programme of solo and/or ensemble music between 10 and 12 minutes in which they will demonstrate an understanding of context, including the chosen style or genre being performed and the composer’s purpose and intention across both years.
In Year 13 you will study:
▪ Baroque Concerto - Bach
▪ Romantic Piano Music – Grieg, Chopin, Brahms
▪ Pop Music – Muse, Labrinth, Daft Punk.
▪ Jazz – Charlie Parker, Miles Davis
▪ Performing – Producing a program of musical performance
▪ Composition – Free and exam board brief compositions
▪ Students will compose two compositions which must last between 4.5 and 6 minutes. One will be in response to an externally set brief and the other a free composition across both years.
How this course is examined:
Written/ Listening Examination is 40% of the grade
▪ Appraising Music – Listening, Analysis and Contextual Understanding.
▪ Unit 5: Performance35%
▪ Unit 6: Composition 25%
Examination Board
Specification Code AQA
Who can I speak with about this course?
If you are interested in this course, please speak with Mr Anderson, Head of Music or any member of the Music Department.
PHOTOGRAPHY
Photography allows you to expand and explore your artistic skills without the need to be able to draw. If you have a creative and experimental nature and are interested in the visual world around you or you are wanting to pursue a career in the creative industries, then this course would be an excellent choice for you. Photography allows you the opportunity to develop your creative ideas and develop a wide range of technical, as well as artistic, knowledge whilst develop your personal interests.
After A Level Photography: Photography can support and lead to a career in any of the artistic and film industries including, but not limited to, Advertising, Film/Video editor, Graphic designer, Magazines, Professional Photographer, Press photographer, Television camera operator, Artist, Architecture, etc.
An A level in Photography requires and develops the following skills:
▪ visually aware
▪ time management
▪ writing
In Year 12 you will study:
▪ independence
▪ interest in artistic practices
▪ self-motivation
▪ Introductory project - experience and gain skills using a SLR film camera, processing film, printing film and different printing techniques. You will also develop knowledge on how to use Adobe Photoshop software, sketchbook presentation as well as writing down research and discussing your own work. You will be expected to research artists and photographers relevant to your intentions and work in a personal and informed manner, leading to a personal outcome.
▪ Personal investigation - this is 60% of the overall A Level and is a self-directed project. The project will run until February of year 13. The project must cover all 4 assessment objectives, as well as include a 2000–3000-word essay.
In Year 13 you will study:
▪ Personal investigation- this is 60% of the overall A-level and is a self-directed project. The project starts in year 12 and runs until February of year 13. The project must cover all 4 assessment objectives as well as include a 2000–3000-word essay.
▪ Externally set assignment – this is 40% of the overall A Level. Students must choose from a selection of 7-8 titles set by AQA and create a project of their choosing that covers the 4 assessment criteria. The externally set assignment concludes with a 15-hour controlled assessment.
▪ All work is internally assessed by department staff before being externally moderated by AQA.
How this course is examined:
Examination – 40%
Students must produce a body of work that relates to an externally set title (choice of topics). The assignment concludes with a 15-hour controlled assessment. The unit is internally marked by department staff before being externally moderated by AQA.
Coursework - Personal investigation – 60%
Students must produce a body of work along a personal theme. The unit should demonstrate a variety of approaches and explore various concepts. It must also include a 2000–3000-word essay.
Examination
Who can I speak with about this course?
If you are interested in this course, please speak with Mr Warner, Head of Art or any member of the Art Department.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
The course covers all aspects of sport from physiology to psychology, encompassing concepts from skill acquisition to topics that reflect contemporary changes in sport and society. A Level Physical Education allows students to gain dynamic theoretical and practical skills needed for further education or work.
After A Level Physical Education: This can lead to careers in, but not limited to: Athlete/performer, Sports Development Officer, Fitness Instructor, Physiotherapist, Event Organisation, Sports Law, Sports Journalism, PE Teacher, Leisure centre/gym manager, Sports Coaching.
An A level in Physical Education requires and develops the following skills:
▪ analysis skills
▪ practical sport skills
▪ organisational skills
▪ communication skills
▪ evaluation skills
In Year 12 you will study:
▪ Skill Acquisition
▪ Applied Anatomy and Physiology
▪ Sport and Society
In Year 13 you will study:
▪ Psychology
▪ Exercise Physiology
▪ Biomechanical Movement
▪ leadership skills
▪ independent study skills
▪ research skills
▪ discussion skills
▪ Sport and Society and the role of Technology
How this course is examined:
Examinations – 70% of the grade
▪ 2 x 2 hour exams, each worth 35% of the final grade
Coursework – 30% of the grade
▪ Practical performance in one sport (team or individual)
▪ Analysis and Evaluation written coursework
Who can I speak with about this course?
If you are interested in this course, please speak with Mr Hogg, Head of Physical Education or any member of the PE Department.
SPORT AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY CTEC
This qualification is not just about being able to play sport, it will provide learners with the skills, knowledge and understanding to progress into Higher Education on a sportrelated programme such as Sport and Physical Education, Sport Science, Sport Coaching and Development or Sport and Leisure Management.
After CTEC Sport and Physical Activity: This can lead to careers in, but not limited to: Athlete, Sports coach/sports instructor, Sports development officer, PE teacher, Sports lawyer , Sports physiotherapist , Sports therapy, Leisure centre/gym manager.
An A level in Sport and Physical Activity CTEC requires and develops the following skills:
▪ organisational skills
▪ team sport skills
▪ independent study skills
▪ communication skills
▪ individual sport skills
▪ initiative
In Year 12 you will study :
▪ information Technology
▪ working to deadlines
▪ teamwork
▪ leadership skills
▪ self-motivation
▪ reliability
▪ Unit 1: Body systems and the effects of physical activity.
▪ Unit 3: Sports organisation and development.
▪ Unit 19: Sport and exercise psychology.
In Year 13 you will study:
▪ Unit 2: Sports coaching and activity leadership.
▪ Unit 18: Practical skills in sport and physical activities.
How this course is examined:
Examinations - Externally assessed by OCR - Both are written papers that comprise of multiple-choice, short answer questions and questions requiring more extended responses
▪ 90 GLH (70 marks) - Unit 1 Body systems and the effects of physical activity
▪ 60 GLH (60 marks) - Unit 3 Sports organisation and development
Coursework - Internally assessed by course tutors
▪ Unit 2 - Sports coaching and activity leadership
▪ Unit 17 - Sports injuries and rehabilitation
Examination Board
Specification Code
OCR 05827 (Extended Certificate)
Who can I speak with about this course?
If you are interested in this course, please speak with Mr Hogg, Head of Physical Education or any member of the PE Department.
PHYSICS
Physics is crucial to understanding the world around us, the world inside us, and the world beyond us. It is the most basic and fundamental science. Physics challenges our imaginations, and it leads to great discoveries, like computers and lasers that lead to technologies which change our lives from healing joints, to curing cancer, to developing sustainable energy solutions. As a society we face an unprecedented array of challenges, both globally and domestically. Physics has a vital role to play in tackling these issues and helping make the UK fit for a new industrial era of science, technology and engineering. Physics brings a broad perspective to any problem. Because they learn how to consider any problem, they are not bound by context. This inventive thinking makes physicists desirable in any field.
After A Level Physics: This can lead to careers in, but not limited to: Education Sector, Manufacturing, Aerospace, Finance, Defence, Health care, Energy Sector, Telecommunications, Information technology, Engineering.
An A level in Physics requires and develops the following skills:
▪ problem solving skills
▪ communication skills
▪ research skills
▪ organisation skills
▪ practical skills
▪ mathematical skills
In Year 12 you will study:
▪ Measurements and their errors
▪ Particles and radiation
▪ Waves
▪ Mechanics and materials
▪ Electricity
In Year 13 you will study:
▪ Further mechanics and thermal physics
▪ Fields and their consequences
▪ Nuclear physics
▪ Astrophysics
How this course is examined:
▪ computing skills
▪ analytical skills
▪ teamwork
▪ understanding scientific methods
▪ udentifying sources of error
External examinations are worth 100% of the grade, three two-hour examinations
Coursework contributes to the practical endorsement not the examination grade: every student must carry out a minimum of 12 practicals. Students are awarded a pass or fail at the end of the course.
Examination Board
Specification Code AQA
Who can I speak with about this course?
If you are interested in this course, please speak with Mr Scott, Head of Physics or any member of the Physics Department.
RELIGIOUS STUDIES
The Russell Group of top universities has made it clear that RS A Level provides ‘suitable preparation for University’. The Universities of Oxford and Cambridge include Religious Studies in the top-level list of ‘generally suitable Arts A levels’. Applicants with Religious Studies A Level were more likely to gain admission to study History at Oxford University than those with A Levels in many ‘facilitating’ subjects. Learn respect and value for other people’s beliefs.
After A Level Religious Studies: This can lead to careers in, but not limited to: Civil Service, Medical Profession, Counselling, Police, Teaching / Lecturing, Law, Journalism, Youth work, Criminology.
An A level in Religious Studies requires and develops the following skills:
▪ clear and logical thinking
▪ critical evaluation
▪ literacy and expression
▪ negotiation
▪ organisation
In Year 12 you will study:
Philosophy
▪ Plato and Aristotle
▪ Soul, mind and body
▪ Arguments for the existence of God from reason
Ethics
▪ Natural Law
▪ Situation Ethics
▪ Kantian Ethics
Development of Christian Thought
▪ Augustine and human nature
▪ Death and the afterlife
▪ Knowledge of God’s existence
In Year 13 you will study:
Philosophy
▪ Nature of God
▪ Religious Language: Via Negativa, Analogy and Symbols
▪ research
▪ planning
▪ working to deadlines
▪ problem solving
▪ Arguments for the existence of God from experience
▪ Religious Experience
▪ Problem of evil and suffering
▪ Utilitarianism
▪ Euthanasia
▪ Business Ethics
▪ Person of Jesus
▪ Christian moral principles
▪ Christian moral actions
▪ Religious Language: Twentieth Century perspectives
Ethics
▪ Meta Ethics
▪ Conscience
Development of Christian Thought
▪ Religious pluralism
▪ Gender
How this course is examined:
▪ Sexual Ethics
▪ The challenge of secularism
▪ Liberation Theology and Marx
External examinations which are worth 100% of the grade.
▪ One 2 hour exam on Philosophy unit
▪ One 2 hour exam on Ethics unit
▪ One 2 hour exam on Development of Christian Thought unit
Each unit is worth 33.33%
Examination Board
Specification Code OCR
H573 (01, 02 and 03)
Who can I speak with about this course?
If you are interested in this course, please speak with Miss Peacock, Head of Religious Education or any member of the RE Department.
SCIENCE BTEC
BTEC provides applied learning that brings together knowledge and understanding (the cognitive domain) with practical and technical skills (the psychomotor domain). In performing vocational tasks this encourage the development of appropriate vocational behaviours (the affective domain) and transferable skills. This approach allows for a rigor and balanced curriculum that promote the ability to apply immediate learning in new contexts.
After BTEC Science: Completion of the course will enable you to pursue a career as a science technician in a laboratory or progress to a higher education qualification such as an HNC, HND or university degree and go on to a career in nursing, radiography, pharmacy, chemical engineering, biochemistry, veterinary science or forensics.
An A level in Science BTEC requires and develops the following skills:
▪ observation
▪ inference
▪ organisation
▪ communication
▪ prediction
▪ time management
In Year 12 you will study:
▪ classification
▪ teamwork
▪ practical skills
▪ measurement
▪ research
▪ literacy
▪ Principles and applications of Science – Physics, Chemistry and Biology
In Year 13 you will study:
▪ Practical scientific procedures and techniques
▪ Contemporary issues in science
How this course is examined:
Examinations – 50%
▪ Three formal written examinations in Physics, Chemistry and Biology
Coursework – 50%
▪ Two course work sections on practical scientific procedures and techniques and contemporary issues in science
Pearson BTEC
Who can I speak with about this course?
Level 3 610/3965/2
If you are interested in this course, please speak with Dr Hartness, Head of Science or any member of the Science Department.