St Dunstan's College Sixth Form Prospectus - For Entry September 2022 by St Dunstan's College

THE SIXTH FORM EXPERIENCE PROSPECTUS Entry September 2022

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CONTENTS Aiming High Together 4 The St Dunstan’s College Diploma 5 KNOWLEDGE 6 CHARACTER 8 Diploma Scholarships 10 FUTURES 14 Diploma Journeys 18 Diploma Award 20 Facilities 22 Pastoral Support and Wellbeing 24 A Word from our Head of School 26 The Oxbridge Programme 28 Life after St Dunstan’s 32 Admissions 34 A Level Subjects 40 Sixth Form Timeline 62

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S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E I CONTENTS

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AIMING HIGH TOGETHER We are a little different at St Dunstan’s. Set in the heart of South East London, we are proud of our vibrant and diverse community, and build on these contemporary values and shared histories. Certainly, we offer you the chance to make outstanding grades and access universities or apprenticeships demonstrating your widening knowledge of the world. But that is the least of it. For really, we are interested in forming a more collegiate-style relationship between teacher and student, finding out what you want to achieve in whatever field of life you choose, and so become leaders of your journeys. Similarly, we look to learn from you, taking your view of the world and have it better mould our views in a mutually rewarding partnership. To shape this potential, we look at character as much as at your grades, and we think about individual futures in the round, and the communities we serve, and not simply through academic ranking alone.

How do we achieve this? Alongside A Levels, we place equal weight on fostering all-round life skills. From the practical aptitudes and knowledge base that will allow you to run a bank account, know sign language, climb a rock face, lead a discussion, plan and host a community event, these are as important to us as the training required to take a traditional exam. In recognition of this fact, the Sixth Form experience here is much more than A Levels. This is why we call it the St Dunstan’s Diploma and we believe it will better equip you for your yet to be discovered adult lives. Mr Alex Brewer Head of Sixth Form, St Dunstan’s College

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S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E I WELCOME

THE ST DUNSTAN’S COLLEGE DIPLOMA St Dunstan’s College Diploma is S T D U N S TA N ’ S S I X T H F O R M a flexible, D I P choice L O M A Ldriven, O G O AforwardND DIAGRAM thinking and ambitious programme of education that is designed to help Sixth Form students transition successfully to an adulthood of personal well-being and prosperity.

educational journey. These link directly to the College values of Courage, Creativity, Confidence, Compassion and Curiosity, but now take on a new role through the opportunity to learn and take on Leadership responsibilities. A St Dunstan’s Sixth Former will be industrious, self-motivated and h diverse e supported byTthe community that is the hallmark of our College. Unafraid of new S TA N D A L O N E I D E N T I F I E R challenges, because they have the support F O R T H E ‘ D I P L O M A’ Complemented by our new state of the art D friends I P Land O mentors, M A our students of their Sixth Form study space, café and learning see their chance to hone all of their talents resource centre, the Diploma fosters the whether by hand, mind or body and so lead perfect environment for the acquisition of their fellow students in an experience of knowledge, and the shaping of character, shared exploration and fellow-feeling whilst preparing our young people to help building friendships which they will entertain lead in a future not yet written. This is why for life. We run against the grain of identikit there are three strands to the Diploma: factory-scale exam production now seen Knowledge; Character; Futures. in many institutions, and instead aim at the Levels education of wholeElec ve person, at a scale where The Diploma acts as A a framework through Co-curricular every sixth formerCourses is able to know and share which A Levels are delivered and supported,Ac vi es these experiences together. In this way, but is augmented by a range of specific through dedication and industry alongside a courses and opportunities that are designed committed team of tutors and mentors, the to develop the acquisition of key life skills, as well as the fostering of character (and 1 ) L A N D S C A P students E L AY O U Tcreate a true foundation to make a identity, at a crucial point in a young adult’s rounded success of their lives.

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KNOWLEDGE

Four or Three A Level subjects

For the Diploma diagram, the titles for each section are

CHARACTER & LEADERS

FUTURES

Prefects Sports Volunteering Socie es The Arts

Global Perspec ves Prac cal Qualifica ons Learn a Language Online Courses UCAS

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ST LOGO

KNOWLEDGE I S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E

A Levels

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KNOWLEDGE – Knowing & Accessing the World A Levels are the core of the Diploma and provide the basis for the acquisition of knowledge necessary to access top tier higher education provision. Sixth Form students begin by choosing four subjects in Year 12 that are best suited to them and their academic interests. They will provide the students with the grades and UCAS points that universities need to see, and these will also count towards their Diploma. There will be opportunity to revise and adjust A level options through the two-year cycle – for the full assessment and consultation timeline, see page 19 table 1. There is a selection of 23 subject courses on offer across the academic spectrum, appealing to many interests, so allowing powerful UCAS applications to be built for university and beyond.

Geography

Biology

German

Business

Global Perspectives

Chemistry

History

Classical Civilisation

Latin

Computer Science

Maths

Design Engineering

Music

Drama

Physics

Economics

Psychology

English Literature

Religion, Philosophy, Ethics

French

Spanish

Further Maths (must be chosen with Maths)

Sports Science

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D I P L O M A

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C Four or Three A Level subjects

A LEVELS EXPLAINED

For the Diploma diagram, the titles for each section are A- A Levels C- Co-Curricular Activities E- Elective Courses so take out references to ECAS/ ACAS/Examined Curriculum and Skills sub-text etc

The A Level programme forms the main academic basis of the Diploma, providing students with a formally assessed understanding of the world and its ideas. At its end, student will have achieved excellent subject grades and UCAS points, and hence the academic rigour expected from universities. All students select four subject A Levels to study in Year 12. Based on progress reviews and consultation, they may reduce their profile to three A Levels at an appropriate time after the end of their first term. This process is always supported and guided by the Sixth Form tutors and the Academic Leadership Team. Unlike GCSEs, A Level subject choice is up to you – there are no ‘core’ subjects that all students must complete, though we do guide you in sensible combinations of subjects when thinking of post-College life. To become a doctor, for example, would need you to take Chemistry and Biology, and to give proper consideration to Mathematics as a further combination. You are studying A Levels because you want to, so of course you are expected to be more independent in your approach to learning than you were at GCSE. You should think about the skills required for success – for example, Chemistry, Physics and Economics all have significant mathematical components and would therefore not suit a student who dislikes or struggles with Mathematics. Many other subjects, such as Art or Drama have significant coursework or essay-writing requirements which may make certain combinations of subjects difficult to time-manage. This is not to say you will be ‘on your own’ – quite the contrary!

Prefects Sports Volunteering Socie es The Arts

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Leadership Sports Volunteering Societies The Arts

You will have more time with your subject teachers than you did at GCSE, your classes will have fewer students, and your teachers will be more available to offer assistance when you need it. Your teachers will be mentoring you to think more independently, work more autonomously, analyse your own work and express your own thoughts and opinions. That’s part of the excitement of Sixth Form study here.

In order to guide your choices, we advise first and foremost that you choose A Level subjects that you enjoy and are good at. A Level study will require you to spend many hours outside of your lessons studying, extending, revising and consolidating your learning. You will be expected to read beyond the syllabus, analyse your own work and confidently express your own thoughts and opinions. It will be very difficult to commit to this level of study if you do not enjoy the material that you are learning or if you find the material very difficult to access. Your future prospects are far better served by strong grades in subjects you enjoy than by weaker ones in subjects you thought you ought to take.

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Art and Design

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We are able to accommodate most students’ first choice of subject combination. We provide ‘option blocks’ of subjects for students to choose from in order to maximise the possibility of meeting student subject requests. These blocks are produced annually based on early indications of subject selection from current students, and help us to timetable teachers and classes to meet these demands. The full list of each course’s specification and content description can be found at the end of this prospectus.

S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E I A LEVELS

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CHARACTER I S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E

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CHARACTER Exploring & Shaping Who You Are We harness the individual potential of each student by offering a host of opportunities to trial their group leader and organizational skill sets. In this way, each person’s talents are enhanced and propelled more quickly to release their true potential. These are some of the main activities in the Character strand of the Diploma:

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A- A Levels C- Co-Curricular Activities E- Elective Courses so take out references to ECAS/ ACAS/Examined Curriculum and Skills sub-text etc

all students from day one ● Running and organising groups and societies that fit

your interests ● Prefecture, taking in 21 posts, and a host of College-

wide responsibilities ● College Parliament, shaping and driving the student

voice ● Form Presentations to Assemblies of our Usherwood

pastoral programme, taking in PSHEE ideas and issues ● Scholars’ Projects and Symposium ● Independent Learning ● CCF, Duke of Edinburgh and Sporting Captaincy

Prefecture – The role of Prefecture in the final year of a St Dunstonian’s Sixth Form career undoubtedly carries great prestige and responsibility. By open application during Easter of Year 12, any Sixth Former may apply. A cohort of 21 students meets with the Head of Sixth Form and the Deputy Head Pastoral on a weekly basis, and the six Red Tie Prefects also meet weekly with the Headmaster, and they provide clear guidance and feedback as to the needs of the wider student body.

Aside from these chosen activities, there is a Diploma Scholarship group with required leadership roles on entry to the Sixth Form. This can be applied for in Michaelmas term of Year 11.

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● Charity, Community, Diversity & Health champions

Activities

Leadership Sports Volunteering Societies The Arts

For the Diploma diagram, the titles for each section are

● Leadership & mentoring opportunities as standard for

● Drama, Music & Performance champions

Co-curricular

S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E I CHARACTER

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DIPLOMA SCHOLARSHIP I S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E

SIXTH FORM DIPLOMA SCHOLARSHIPS The Sixth Form Diploma Scholarship is awarded to outstanding Year 11 students as they embark on their Sixth Form studies at St Dunstan’s College. In addition to excellent academic results, our Diploma Scholars are leaders in the College community and contribute to all aspects of College life. They have an infectious enthusiasm for the subjects and activities they are passionate about, and their work in these fields inspires others to follow in their footsteps. They are able to organise their time to ensure they can meet deadlines and expectations, but always have time to devote to furthering their specialist knowledge or improving their skills. Above all, Sixth Form Diploma Scholars are role models for others in the College, adorning the white of their St Dunstan’s shield with flair and good humour. What is the Sixth Form Diploma Scholarship Programme? Chosen by application and interview with the Headmaster in Michaelmas term of Year 11, Diploma Scholars will be required to lead societies in their favoured disciplines. Working with the Head of Sixth Form and the Director of the Forder programme, and various Heads of Department, scholars are trained in leading seminars, workshops, productions and evening shows, discussing their work with others to develop new ideas for wider display. This enrichment programme includes off-site visits to lectures and performances, such as to the opera at the ENO, and trips to places of academic and social interest, such as Kew Gardens. We also take the scholars away for a weekend to our Scholars Retreat on the UK coast where they have chance to learn alongside the Headmaster and with senior members of the College’s Leadership team.

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In return, scholars are expected to create, advertise and take responsibility for leading at least one student society, for at least two half-terms (either per year, or one term per each year), in their given field of expertise. They will have mentors from each of their areas who will support and shape their leadership potential to enable the scholars to grow into a champion in their field of expertise across the College. All this is stimulus for creating an individual scholarship project. There is no standard format for a research project: it can be an essay, a work study, an artistic piece, a video documentary, or a mixture of all or any of these. Projects are presented in the November Scholar Symposium of Year 13 attended by an invited judge and parents. The Diploma Scholarship becomes a powerful platform for advanced skills to be developed, and enhanced university and future CVs created in advance of their peers.

S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E I DIPLOMA SCHOLARSHIP

Benefits of the Sixth Form Diploma Scholarship (SFDS) The Sixth Form Diploma Scholarship may include a fee reduction, but as importantly includes time and mentoring of students to achieve their individual academic potential. Students are identified by scholars’ and are identified by scholars’ ties and badges, and by their prominent seating at school functions. They are given the post nominal designation (SFDS) on all College publications.

How do I apply for a Sixth Form Scholarship? Those internal students already with the College can apply for a Diploma Scholarship through an interview process with the Headmaster and Head of Sixth Form in November of Year 11 – details of how to apply will come through form time and letter home to parents from Head of Sixth. Those applying from outside of the College need to make known their intention to apply for the Diploma Scholarship when they enter the application process. On the basis of their first round scores and the area of expertise they wish to champion, a further interview may be held by a Head of Department in that field of interest. Please note that the Scholarship process is likely to then include interview with portfolio, or arranged on-site school visit by teachers in these fields. Full details regarding assessment, opportunities and the application forms can be found on the website. Typically, Diploma Scholars are nominated in the following areas:

DIPLOMA SCHOLARSHIP ACADEMIC Expectations

Facilities

The student will excel academically across a range of subjects and hold scores and grade predictions at the highest levels. They will be interested in opening up interesting and unusual fields of interest, going beyond what one might expect of a good GCSE student. They are likely to enjoy discussing ideas and concepts at a higher level of discourse and they will want to lead, create and inspire younger students in their chosen field of ideas, For example, running Forder societies and clubs, entering national essay competitions, and appearing as academic champions at College Open Days.

DIPLOMA SCHOLARSHIP ART & DESIGN Expectations

The Art Department looks for young artists who are passionate about the subject through developing their own work, by visiting galleries and museums on a regular basis and through having a range of artistic skills that allow for the demonstration of a high level of creativity. They will lead other year groups in Forder clubs, societies and bespoke artistic projects, including Open Day events and the Summer Festival.

Facilities

● Spacious art rooms ● Kiln ● Photography

● J-Store research base

● 1-2-1 mentoring

● 1-2-1 Head of Department mentoring ● Access to the Oxbridge programme

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DIPLOMA SCHOLARSHIP I S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E

DIPLOMA SCHOLARSHIP DRAMATIC ARTS Expectations

Facilities

Students should have been actively involved in dramatic productions throughout their time in education and be able to depict a passion that goes beyond the classroom. They will lead other year groups in dramatic training and productions, in Forder dramatic arts clubs, at Open Day events and in the Summer Festival. There is no minimum requirement in terms of professional body or amateur group membership but you should be able to verbally depict a passion for the subject with supporting examples of your practice in the field. This field of study may include but is not limited to acting, dance, stage management, costume design, light and sound technician, production management, film or media studies. The new Performing Arts Centre, opening in late 2021, will contain;

DIPLOMA SCHOLARSHIP MUSIC Expectations

Candidates are expected to be actively involved in music at their current school as well as outside it (e.g. being part of a choir or orchestra). On receipt of an award, they will become a lead practitioner of music encouraging other year groups via performance and taught music sessions. They will be lead Forder clubs, Open Day events and the Summer Festival. We welcome applications from students having taken ABRSM or Trinity Board exams as well as Suzuki students. Candidates are required to be at a level akin to at least Grade 6 in their main instrument.

Facilities

The new Performing Arts Centre, opening in late 2021, will contain;

● A state-of-the-art theatre ● Practice rooms

● A state-of-the-art theatre

● Studios and open spaces for recitals

● Practice rooms

● 1-2-1 mentoring

● Studios and open spaces for recitals

In addition, the Great Hall, regularly used for events, contains another Grand Piano and an Organ, which are available for students to use.

● Podcast facilities and a tech studio ● 1-2-1 mentoring

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S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E I DIPLOMA SCHOLARSHIP

DIPLOMA SCHOLARSHIP SPORTS Expectations

Candidates should be champions for sport & physical activity in their current school, having demonstrated high levels of commitment and performance in a variety of areas. As a performer, we would expect applicants to be competing at county level or equivalent, depending on the sport they currently participate in. In addition to demonstrating full commitment to our competitive programmes across the Sixth Form, they will train and lead younger years in sporting excellence, particularly in Forder clubs and in team events and matches. They will also be expected to attend Open Days, and the help host the Summer Festival.

Facilities

DIPLOMA SCHOLARSHIP DESIGN ENGINEERING (new for 2022 entry) Expectations

The Design Engineering Department is looking for the next generation of Engineers and students with a real passion and aptitude for Design Engineering. Students will be fascinated by how things work and finding modern and practical ways to solve real world problems. They are expected to be subject champions across all year groups and key stages, most directly in running Forder clubs and societies. They will also be expected to lead on Open Days and as part of the Summer Festival.

Facilities

● 3D printer ● Brand new DT classrooms ● 1-2-1 mentoring

● On-site swimming pool ● 10 acres of sport fields ● Multi Use Games Area (MUGA) ● Gym ● Fives courts ● 1-2-1 mentoring

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FUTURES – AIMING HIGHER... I S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E RAILevels ENCE

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FUTURES – Aiming Higher…

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This curriculum has a global outlook and helps students to develop the practical research and application skills they need to both step up their Academic profiles, as well as let them start to explore issues and ideas that might be of career and vocational interest. We see this as a marker of St Dunstan’s commitment to a renaissance education, aware as we are that the thinkers and artisans of the Quattrocento travelled widely, read deeply, became as skilled in hand as in mind.

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For the Diploma diagram, the titles for each section are A- A Levels C- Co-Curricular Activities E- Elective Courses so take out references to ECAS/ ACAS/Examined Curriculum and Skills sub-text etc

Higher Education & Careers Our employment in the future will not look like the employment of the past. Indeed, the jobs most young people will go on to do may well not have been invented as yet, and lifelong training and re-training are likely to be the norm. The Sixth Form has a dedicated Futures team to prepare and shape post-College pathways:

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● Director of Futures: they guide the

creation of university applications, information and institution finding, personal statement building, reference construction and organisation of UCAS grades as well as managing submissions to meet scheduled deadlines. ● All of Year 12 spend a week in

June working with employers and companies across London and the South East. Students will also be supported with writing CVs, application forms and advice on interviews and assessment centres via the tutorial programme. ● The Director of Futures

also shapes knowledge of the workplace, vocational applications, organises and oversees work placements including the summer Workplace Week in Trinity Term of Year 12 and guides the students in building a bespoke Curriculum Vitae. ● Aiming High Group provides

access to elite university study programmes: institutions such as

LSE, Cambridge, Imperial College and Oxford, Sciences Po Grande Ecole in Paris, the South East Asian universities, as well as Canada and the American Ivy league. The group builds such interest through Year 10 and 11, and then meets weekly during Year 12 to properly prepare for such bespoke applications often required early in Year 13. ● There is a different arm of the

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The Futures Curriculum has four components: ● Higher Education and Career route-finding, all students ● Aiming High specialist support groups for Oxbridge, Medics, Dentist, Vets and Lawyers ● Global Perspectives Qualification, which can be opted out of by students after certain levels of attainment, or can be taken as a full A Level alongside subject A Levels ● Futures explorations courses that students can opt into over the two years

Activities

Aiming High group with a specialist who mentors doctors, lawyers and veterinarians, and a similar one for Art School applications, all of which run on different tram lines to UCAS and therefore require different sorts of support and mentoring. Each year, the College holds a very popular Careers Fair which is attended by delegates from a diverse range of fields, reflecting the range of employment opportunities pursued by our students and allowing them to network and ask questions of those with the most up-to-date careers information.

S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E I FUTURES – AIMING HIGHER...

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ADMISSIONS I S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E

THE GLOBAL PERSPECTIVES A LEVEL QUALIFICATION Whilst this is formallyspeaking an ‘A Level’, it is skills-based, rather than subject-based, and allows students to take up and develop research interests outside of the traditional disciplines.

All students in Year 12 begin the qualification, then after a term’s work, they can decide whether to continue it for the rest of the year sitting an AS Level qualification, or exchange it in favour of other Futures-based courses. If continued to end of Year 12, those students can then decide to convert the qualification to a full A Level in Year 13, where the student writes a Research project on a subject of

their choosing. In many institutions, A Level students are expected to take the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), but we prefer the Global Perspectives research project because the issues chosen must be internationalist in outlook and compare different cultural perspectives. If a student completes the full course and maintains their four subject A Levels it is possible for them to leave with five A Levels.

FUTURES EXPLORATION COURSES In order to build more diverse educational portfolios, we also offer the Sixth Form chances to develop practical and workplace skills that will better equip them for life after college. From Lent Term of Year 12, three periods a fortnight are available to enable such courses and all students get at least two full terms to also try out these courses during their Sixth Form experience. Most Futures Exploration courses are four to six weeks in length. Here are examples: ● Babbel or Rosetta Stone Language on-line course ● FutureLearn, EDX, OpenLearn online courses

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● First Aid & Youth Mental Health in-house training ● British Sign Language in-house training ● Medic / Dentist / Vet application in-house preparation ● Climbing instructions & lead climbing, in-house ● Barista training – external provider, weekends ● Learning to cook in-house training ● Learning to debate ● Learning to drive – theory test training ● IELTS certificate ● Learning to use Microsoft Office & Excel

We use the bespoke Unifrog computer database training system to record, manage and collate progress across the whole of the Futures Curriculum. Tutors will train and help students manage this system to meet each individual pathway and in doing so create individual Curriculum Vitae.

S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E I ADMISSIONS

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DIPLOMA JOURNEYS I S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E

DIPLOMA JOURNEYS

Sixth Form has been very different to secondary school, and I really could not have predicted how it would have gone once the pandemic intervened. However, I am happy with what I was able to do. Studying Maths, Physics and Chemistry has definitely not been easy the whole time. There have been moments where I have been incredibly proud of myself, but also disappointed when things did not go as planned. I’ve been able to learn from the times where I haven’t done my best, and use that as fuel to drive myself to succeed in ways that surprised me. Over the summer after year 12, I worked on my Independent Research Report as part of the Global Perspectives course which is equal in UCAS points to a whole A Level. Through hours of work, and help from my mentor, Mr Elmes, I investigated the different ways in which the universe could end and achieved the highest possible distinction. Classrooms and labs are places I’ve always felt comfortable in, but my time in the Sixth Form has also been spent outside these. Having played hockey since year 7, it felt right to continue and join the 1st XI Team. Playing alongside my friends and those from other years, persevering through all kinds of weather and watching ourselves improve has been an unforgettable experience. I had also never expected to be RSM of the Cadet Corp. Standing as next in the line of succession to all those responsible students who had come before me was a weighty responsibility, and I am really grateful for all the help of the staff and seniors who made settling into that leadership position more comfortable. Deputy Head of School was also an important role I had the honour of fulfilling, and being part of the Prefect team has really made me feel like I’ve made the most of my time at St Dunstan’s. It is strange to think that although I have done so much to try and develop myself as a person, I still have no idea what I want to do after university. I like to try and organise things as much for myself as I can, which includes thinking ahead into the future, so not having a plan for after university may seem like a glaring problem. But, this doesn’t scare me. The memories I have made at St Dunstan’s are really important to me, and I’m sure that everything I’ve learnt and experienced will come back to help me sometime later in life.”

DENISE SPIGLER

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During my time in the sixth form, I chose to study 3 A Levels: English Literature, History and Economics. With this combination, I was not only encouraged to draw links between subjects to enhance my understanding of important practical matters, such as context in literature, but it also gave me a wider understanding of subjects that I previously never would have thought to have looked into. For example, I initially chose Economics as I felt that it would complement History and boost my general understanding of international politics, but it has also imbued me with a newfound interest in the human side of economics and the psychology behind our economic decisions - I wouldn’t have thought of looking into this had I not been encouraged by the St Dunstan’s Diploma to do so. This is the magic of the Diploma, it enables students to not only look at what they’re interested in now, but it also encourages them to look beyond their horizons and find new interests. This sense of discovering interests beyond the syllabus does not end with the wide range of interconnecting subjects however, as exemplified by the Global Perspectives Independent Research Report where I was introduced to university style essay writing in debating over the effects of the British Empire in the Indian subcontinent. This not only provided a great talking point in my personal statement and university interviews, being worth the equivalent of a full A Level in UCAS points, but it also taught me valuable skills in coursework writing as I learnt to critically analyse different types of sources. The Diploma isn’t just limited to academic achievement either. I took part in a number of co-curricular Forder activities that were similarly useful in my university applications. I was a part of the Economics society and I was the joint head of Debating society, both societies helped me to develop my understanding of my A Levels beyond the subject. I took part in after-school care for the junior school which allowed me to gain some experience in teaching and leadership. I also held the role of WO2 in the army section of the CCF which helped to boost my confidence and leadership skills whilst also opening up incredible opportunities that wouldn’t otherwise have been available to me, such as shooting in a live weapons range. The St Dunstan’s Diploma opened up opportunities and helped me to foster my existing interest in my A Level overall, proving to be incredibly useful not only in my university applications but also in the benefits they will no doubt bring to me in transferring from school life to university.”

IESA RAHMAN

S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E I DIPLOMA JOURNEYS

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DIPLOMA AWARD I S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E

A DIPLOMA OF KNOWLEDGE, CHARACTER AND THE FUTURE The Diploma has been specifically designed to reflect the full range and diversity of the St Dunstan’s Sixth Form. It can and will adapt to best serve Sixth Formers and as the following grid structure makes clear, this is a course of adaptability, guided with careful expert mentoring, that allows a student’s talents to flourish and grow. Minimum commitment:

2 Subject A Levels, 1 Global Perspectives A Level to IRR with 20 hours of Futures courses; Two Terms of participation in Leadership of societies over the two years Or 3 A Levels, 20 hours of Futures courses; Two Terms of participation in Leadership of societies over the two years

Maximum commitment:

4 Knowledge Subject A Levels; 1 Global Perspectives A Level; 30+ hours of Futures courses; Leadership of multiple groups, covering different fields over the two years

The Award The Diploma will be awarded to Sixth formers in Year 13 in a graduation ceremony at the end of their last full academic term with us, with their parents invited to attend. We will recognise different levels of achievement in the Diploma at the end of Y13, thus: Merit: A Levels; 20 hours of guided Futures courses; 2 Terms of participation in Leader group societies over the two years Distinction: A Levels; 30 hours of guided Futures courses; 3 Terms as Leaders of multiyear groups over the two years Honours: A Levels; 30+ hours of guided Futures courses; 4 Terms as Leaders in Forder or multi-year groups, or as a Leader of a whole school project of extraordinary impact across the year groups Through this Diploma, the College’s motto of ‘Albam Exorna’, the white shield representing the space for the individual path of each student’s journey, is finally theirs to complete and crown, with an attendant real sense of achievement that comes with this ownership.

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S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E I DIPLOMA AWARD

This diagram shows the Diploma’s full range of flexibility and choice:

Knowledge

Futures

Character

GP, GP, Higher Skills Path- A Level A Level A Level A Level 1 2 3 4 Courses: Education AS Level, AS Level way 15 hour & Careers One Term Exam, to end Y12 min per year 1

GP, A Level Project, to end Y13

Society Member

Society Leader, Minimum one group per year

Society Leader Multiple groups

Optional / Required for Scholars & Leader

Optional

Optional / Required for Scholars & Leader

Optional

Optional / Required for Scholars & Leader

Optional

Optional / Required for Scholars & Leader

Optional

Optional / Required for Scholars & Leader

Optional

Optional / Required for Leader

Optional

Optional / Required for Leader

Optional

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FACILITIES I S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E

FACILITIES At St Dunstan’s College, we aim to inspire and support individuals to thrive. Our diverse and forward-thinking curriculum, along with inspirational teaching, stretches and challenges students to support their academic ambition and nurture a lifelong love of learning all the way through to the Sixth Form and beyond. With the opening of our new Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) block in April 2021, our ambitious approach to learning is matched by modern, bright and first-class facilities. The classrooms, laboratories and workshops are equipped with cutting edge equipment and will inspire future generations of Scientists, Mathematicians and Engineers through excellent teaching in stimulating learning spaces.

new STEM block opens up areas of our original 1888 building for redevelopment, including a new Performing Arts Centre. This exciting new space will house Music rehearsal and a recital room, Drama and Dance studios and a new theatre. We also plan to expand and enhance our Sport and Leisure Centre, along with ongoing refurbishment of the original 1888 building to modernise all our classrooms.

Our new Sixth Form hub, with independent study spaces and a Sixth Form Café, has been transformational for our Sixth Formers supporting them with a sense of independence and maturity as they transition into the world of higher education, apprenticeships, and the world of work.

Our College site provides the backdrop for so many amazing learning experiences, personal development and growth as an individual. Whether that be as part of an academic lesson, within a tutorial session or as part of our co-curricular Forder Programme. It is such an exciting time to be at St Dunstan’s College, as we complete the largest redevelopment of our site since our doors opened in South East London in 1888. These inspirational learning spaces provide the perfect environment for our ambitious and forward-thinking curriculum.

Towards the rear of the College grounds, The Plaza, provides a welcoming outdoor space for students to enjoy, along with an outdoor performance venue and Parade Square for our Combined Cadet Force. The move to our

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S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E I FACILITIES

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PASTORAL SUPPORT I S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E

PASTORAL SUPPORT AND WELLBEING Tutor Team Specialists, Heads of Year, Subject Mentors Tutor Teams meet daily with students, and are the guides and mentors to chart their charges’ individual pathways to adulthood. Highly experienced tutors lead small form groups and the Sixth Form students rapidly build firm friendships across their and other year groups. Students follow a comprehensive PSHEE programme – the Usherwood Curriculum – delivered in tutorial time in the mornings and afternoons by the Tutors. This is supplemented with a wide-ranging programme of seminars and talks on the array of relevant concerns to young adults including drugs awareness, mental, physical and sexual health awareness and cyber-issues.

Core Life Skills Programme These are skills that we believe properly equip our students for lives as independent young adults. Delivered by specialists in each field through lectures to the whole year group, and then built upon via small group work in tutor form groups, these sessions develop the skill sets we need to navigate adult living: ● Finance & Budgeting ● Alcohol & Drugs ● Mental & Physical Health ● Democracy & Politics ● Personal Safety & Cults ● Sexual Health & Identity ● Cookery & Diet

Physical and Mental Wellbeing St Dunstan’s Pupil Wellness Centre, the Pavilion, is the hub for student wellbeing at the College. Students benefit from a range of supports including a comprehensive counselling service, offering both formal and informal sessions with our three counsellors. Additionally, the College has an in-house Mental Health First Aid Instructor, and therefore many of the staff and senior students are qualified to deliver Mental Health First Aid. There is normally one MHFAqualified member of staff on duty in the Pavilion during school hours. The College Nurse and medical team are located in the Pavilion, which also has clinical space as well as study space. Peer mentors and

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other listeners use the Pavilion as a relaxing environment in which to meet with students. The Chaplaincy is based in the Pavilion, where students can find space for quiet reflection or prayer should they wish. Students can self-refer to the counselling service or Nurse using a form available in hard copy from the Sixth Form Common Room, the Pavilion Foyer, the Deputy Heads’ Office, College Reception and online via Firefly.

SIXTH FORM

LEADERSHIP TEAM

Mr Alex Brewer Head of Sixth Form abrewer@stdunstans.org.uk Mr Thomas Scambler Head of Year 13 Oxbridge Co-ordinator tscambler@stdunstans.org.uk Miss Eleanor Bocarro Head of Year 12 ebocarro@stdunstans.org.uk Mr Ben Ford Director of Futures bford@stdunstans.org.uk

S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E I PASTORAL SUPPORT

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INTRO FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL I S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E

A WORD FROM OUR HEAD OF SCHOOL It was once said by Malcom X in 1964 that “Education is the passport to the future”. Despite the age of his words, his statement remains profoundly correct. St Dunstan’s College’s motto, Albam Exorna, loosely translating to adorning the white of our yet unwritten futures, embodies Malcom’s words and reflects the holistic, Dunstonian education that equips students with passports to access their own successful futures. My time at St Dunstan’s Sixth Form has been one of development; development of myself; development of my interests; development of friends; and the recent physical development of the school. However, this was no lucky accident or coincidence; the Sixth Form is geared towards developing students. Its welcoming environment, where curiosity is routinely encouraged and rewarded, comfortably guides students in their academic journey. Passionate teachers help us to actively seek and achieve our own goals both in terms of grades but those beyond the A Level curriculum too. Weekly seminars and an abundance of resources foster interest and student led societies mix both the learning of leadership and independent academic progression. The College is also not limited in seeing A Levels as merely a path to university, but also as a chance to advance pupils’ identities. Through a careful balance of classwork and independent periods where students can learn without constraint, sixth formers come to view their subjects as intrinsic parts of themselves – passions to kindle rather than prerequisites to higher education. The Sixth Form also offers a progressive and modern A Level curriculum that equips students with the skills to grapple contemporary life, both in the professional world and the domestic. With 23 subject A Level options, the Sixth Form contains an equilibrium of choice, where students can choose from a broad

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range of subjects. Modules within each discipline are carefully picked to prepare each student with the necessary knowledge to navigate the 21st Century, from learning about the Civil Rights Movement in the USA in History to identifying the use of authority as a destructive power in Psychology. The new extension of facilities enables the College to powerfully underwrite these courses. Support systems, both academic and pastoral found at the College, provide guidance and aid for students’ ambitions or needs. The Wellness Centre is a building dedicated to student wellbeing with multiple counsellors with whom sessions can be booked regularly or simply visited as a walkin appointment. Academic excellence is also mixed with the unique selection of co-curricular activities found in the Forder & Sixth Form Diploma Programmes, broadening horizons beyond the A Level curriculum and redefining the Sixth Form experience. Open during all hours of school operation, it provides a welcoming and safe place to better student mental health or for those who simply want adult support or advice. St Dunstan’s College Sixth Form is indeed incredibly unique. It nurtures and fosters the two most important years of a student’s life whilst not having to make any sacrifices to either academic excellence or mental wellbeing. Whether you will be joining us at Sixth Form or are simply progressing to the next year at St Dunstan’s, I offer my most sincere welcome to an experience that has benefitted me so kindly and will continue to do so for future generations.

Xin Shackleton Head of School 2021-2022

S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E I FACILITIES

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THE OXBRIDGE PROGRAMME I S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E

ACADEMIC SEMINARS An exciting programme of student-led seminars, discussing thought-provoking topics. We encourage you to think out loud, answer difficult questions, be open to new perspectives, and to gain confidence in explaining your thoughts. You can present on any topic. Here are some example questions that you could explore in more depth: • • •

If I were to visit the area where you live, what would I be interested in? What is the difference between intelligent, wise and clever?

Aiming Oxford and Support P

OXBR PREPAR SER

college?”, and more.

Week 1 Why Oxford Week 2 Week 3 Developing Week 4 Exploring th Week 5 Week 6 with Oxbridge in min Week 7 Week 8 Making the m

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g High d Cambridge Programme

RIDGE RATION RIES

S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E I THE OXBRIDGE PROGRAMME

INTENSIVE SUPPORT Following a one-to-one Personal Statement support you in the following ways as you end of September: • • • • •

Weekly personal statement progress checks Support from a subject expert teacher Mock entrance exams Model interviews Internal and external mock interviews

d or Cambridge?

your interest and passion he interview

most of your summer

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THE OXBRIDGE PROGRAMME I S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E

What St Dunstan’s offers: The Universities of Cambridge and Oxford are the oldest and most famous seats of learning in the country. To gain entrance is not a magic trick: the admissions process is run by respected academics who have behind them over 1000 years’ experience of picking the brightest and best students from across the world. Successful students are academically curious, passionate about their subject areas, ambitious and willing to think in different ways. The Oxbridge Programme at St Dunstan’s will: • • • •

Provide students with information about the universities and demystify the process Develop students’ abilities to think in different ways, to accept academic challenge, and to express their thoughts out loud Support students with personal statement writing, further reading, entrance exam preparation and the interview Provide subject expert mentoring to support all of the above

Oxbridge Coordinator Oxbridge Coordinator, Mr Scambler, studied Mathematics at the University of Cambridge where he specialised in Geometry, Groups and Analysis. He has taught Mathematics, and occasionally Computer Science, for nearly 10 years, and has taught at St Dunstan’s for five of those, during which time he has run Go Club, Coding Club, Hans Woyda and Maths Masterclass. He is also a member of the Sixth Form team and is currently Head of Year. For more information, please email tscambler@stdunstans.org.uk

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S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E I THE OXBRIDGE PROGRAMME

“If I ever struggled with my UCAS application I could always go to a teacher and they would always help out. There was great support, they always helped no matter what.” Dariel, Year 13 student

“The Diploma has really helped me to find new interests, but also to develop things that I was already interested in. I really like the way the Sixth Form is not just focused on the academic lessons; it is also about the elective courses and the Forder Programme.” Charlotte, Year 13 student

“The support was brilliant. They were so accommodating with the fact that it was a very packed application, you are going to need to do a lot and it’s going to take up a lot of time, but they were just so lovely with it and they were always available to help, provide their opinion, help with interview practice and personal statement proofing.”

AIMING HIGH: MEDICS, DENTISTS, VETS & LAWYERS Academic Seminars An exciting programme of teacher-led seminars, discussing medical & legal ethics, science in medicine, law in action, and how best to prepare for an application to these types of institution. You will be supported to prepare for all tests, such as the BMAT & LNAT, for work experience and interviews, as well as challenged to think about the most up-to-date scientific & legal techniques in the disciplines, as well as debate the ethical dilemmas these fields of work present.

Personal Mentoring Personalised support provided at every stage of the application process. This involves guiding you through your work experience journey, testing and interview preparation from Year 12 until you leave the College. We draw upon our extensive network of training doctors, vets, dentists and lawyers to give you advice, mock interviews and support straight practicing specialists. Our trained mentors provide bespoke advice for each applicant based on their unique profile of achievement which has led to 100% of our students achieving offers in recent years.

Selena, Year 13 student

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LIFE AFTER ST DUNSTAN’S I S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E

University LIFE AFTER ST DUNSTAN’S Destinations University Destinations 2020 & 2021 2020 & 2021 Heriot-Watt University

Business & Economics Urban Planning & Property Development

University of Strathclyde Aero-Mechanical Engineering Architectural Studies

Leeds Beckett University Fashion Marketing

Keele University Human Biology & Psychology

University of Leeds

Mechanical Engineering Economics & Geography Philosophy, Ethics & Religion Music History of Art Economics Geography Mathematics Aeronautical & Aerospace Engineering Economics & Politics Biochemistry Criminal Justice & Criminology Law

Newcastle University

History Classical Civilisation Modern Languages & Cultures English Literature

University of York

Business & Management Art Foundation

Nottingham Trent University

Lancaster University Geography Aerospace Engineering Mechanical Engineering Geography Civil Engineering Mechanical Engineering with Integrated Foundation Year Criminology Midwifery Economics & Politics Mathematics

Chemical Engineering Criminology & Sociology Mechanical Engineering with Placement Finance, Accounting & Management with Placement Law

Loughborough University Architecture with Placement Industrial Design Sport & Exercise Science

University of Leicester

University of Liverpool

Software Engineering with a Year in Industry

Game Design History

University of Warwick

English & Theatre Studies Mathematics, Operational Research, Statistics & Economics (MORSE) Physics with Astrophysics

University of Birmingham

Physical Geography & Oceanography with Placement

University of Nottingham

Criminology Quantity Surveying & Commercial Management

English Literature with Creative Writing with Placement Year

University of Manchester

Bangor University

Durham University

Mechanical Design & Manufacturing Engineering Speech & Language Sciences

Physiotherapy

Aberystwyth University

University of Cambridge

Psychology

Theology, Religion & Philosophy of Religion

University of Oxford

Oxford Brookes University

Earth Sciences

Business Management & Geography

University of Buckingham Medicine

Swansea University

University of Kent

Classical Civilisation with Year Abroad

Cardiff University

Business Management

Classical & Archaeological Studies

University of Sussex

University of Bristol

Biology Aerospace Engineering

University of Southampton Medicine

University of Bath

Economics with Placement Psychology with Placement

University of Brighton

Geography International Business with Placement Finance & Business Sociology & Cultural Studies

Nursing (Adult)

University of Exeter

Conservation Biology & Ecology with Placement Liberal Arts with Study Abroad Human Biosciences Anthropology History & Politics

University of Surrey

Veterinary Medicine & Science

GREATER LONDON UNIVERSITIES University College London (UCL)

Pharmacy History Architecture Psychology

SOAS University of London Development Studies

King’s College London Law Psychology with Placement Religion, Politics & Society Mathematics Comparative Literature Political Economy

University of Greenwich Economics

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City, University of London

Brunel University London

Queen Mary University of London

Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts (RADA)

International Political Economy

History English & Drama Computer Science Mathematics with Foundation Year

English with Creative Writing

Technical Theatre & Stage Management

London Contemporary Dance School Dance

S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E I LIFE AFTER ST DUNSTAN’S

“The relationship I gained with my teachers at St Dunstan’s was extremely special, likewise with my peers. I strongly cherished being part of SDC’s community.” Anna, Management with Marketing at University of Leeds

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ADMISSIONS I S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E

ADMISSIONS Entry requirements for the Sixth Form are currently set at an average grade score of 6 at GCSE, with some subjects requiring a specific higher grade for entry – please consult subject pages for further information. Current St Dunstan’s students do not need to complete an application form for Sixth Form entry, but the same GCSE attainment criteria apply for automatic entry into the Sixth Form from Year 11.

SIXTH FORM DATES

AND DEADLINES

Current St Dunstan’s Year 11 students Year 10

Year 11

Every year we welcome new students from both independent and state schools in the UK, and overseas, into our Sixth Form. Each applicant is considered individually. Our Sixth Form Admissions process involves: ● An online reasoning paper

Month

What

November

• Attend our Careers and Higher Education series

January-February

• University Programme introduction & various career events

May-June

• Pupil and Parents Discovery Tour of the Sixth Form

September-October

• Sixth Form Discovery Open Evening • Oxbridge essay competition launch

October

• Virtual Q&A with parents and Head of Sixth Form • Launch of Sixth Form Diploma Scholarship

November

• Deadline for applying for Sixth Form Diploma Scholarship • Sixth Form Taster Day • Scholarship Exam & interviews • Diploma Leadership Discovery afternoon

November onwards

• Attend our Careers and Higher Education series

December

• Sixth Form Diploma Scholarship offers

January

• Acceptance deadline for Sixth Form Diploma Scholarship

February

• Scholars’ Retreat • A Level Option Deadline

● An essay question ● Interviews in two chosen A Level subjects ● A general interview with a member of the Sixth Form Team ● A reference from the applicant’s current school ● Assessment in your co-curricular scholarship if applicable Offers are conditional on GCSE results (applicants must meet the requirements outlined above). All Sixth Form students follow linear A Level courses and sit public exams at the end of Year 13. We do not enter students for AS examinations in Year 12. We warmly welcome you to attend our 16+ Open Evening on 7 October 2021 to support your decisions. You will need to book online on our website. You will have the opportunity to meet the Head of Sixth Form, Mr Alex Brewer, as well as various members of the Sixth Form team.

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External candidates Date

Registration process for external candidates

1 June 2021

Online registration opens

25 September 2021

College wide open day

7 October 2021

16+ Open Evening

22 October 2021

Registration process closes

22 October 2021

Bursary application deadline

4 November 2021

Entrance exams

Week commencing 15 November 2021

Diploma Scholarship interview

17 November 2021

Interview in two chosen A Level subjects and general or scholarship interview

Early December 2021

Sixth Form Taster Day

Week commencing 29 November 2021

Offers sent out

20 December 2021

Acceptance deadline

S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E I ADMISSIONS

BURSARIES

The bursary programme is designed to help as many candidates as possible, who meet our entry criteria, take up a place at St Dunstan’s. The College offers a number of means-tested awards annually to entrants at Year 12. Bursaries are means-tested in accordance with the criteria published on the College’s website. Both parents are required to provide proof of their income and assets. The level of support varies according to parental need, but can extend to full fee remission in cases of proven need. To qualify for consideration for a bursary, the gross family income must be below £75,000 p.a. Bursaries are always offered for 12 months at a time. The family is required to provide fresh information about its circumstances for every year that their child attends the College. Levels of support may vary with fluctuations in income. Bursaries are only offered to families who are resident in the UK. The College’s practice is to allocate its entire bursary funding, available for the year, on entry. The College’s expectation is that parents who do not choose to apply for a bursary at the time that their child is being assessed, will not require financial support throughout the time that their child attends the College, except in wholly unforeseen circumstances. External candidates can apply for a bursary by ticking the relevant box on the online registration form. Award of a bursary may be subject to a home visit.

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ADMISSIONS I S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E

DISCOVER ST DUNSTAN’S VISITING THE COLLEGE We recommend that prospective families visit the school on as many occasions as they possibly can in order to meet pupils and staff in various settings. We very much hope that we will be able to host open days onsite this year when families have the opportunity to tour the College and our beautiful new facilities before attending a Q&A session with the Head of Sixth Form. You will need to register online for both 25 September which is our College wide open day and for 7 October which is our bespoke 16+ Open Evening when all departments will be represented. In addition, we organise regular Masterclasses: these sessions are specifically aimed for Year 10 pupils who can attend sessions taught by our inspiring teachers; in the past sessions on offer have included a Geography lesson, a Leonardo da Vinci lecture or a psychology lesson to name but a few.

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Director of Admissions: Mrs Isabelle Blake-James Head of Admissions: Ms Anika Kothari Admissions Assistant: Miss Georgina Morrison E: admissions@stdunstans.org.uk T: 020 8516 7200

S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E I ADMISSIONS

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AT A GLANCE I S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E

St Dunstan’s Sixth Form

AT A GLANCE Diploma activities taken up:

50+

ACTIVITIES

Number of A LEVEL SUBJECTS we offer:

20+ Percentage of Y13 who have Deaf Sign & First Aid training:

FAMOUS ALUMNI: Natalie Seaton Alice Bird Nigel Higgins Lord Drayson Matthew D’Ancona Chuka Umunna Bill Muirhead Number of Students who achieved

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1st Choice University

94% gained a UK top 20 university place

S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E I AT A GLANCE

Numbers achieving A* grade

Percentage of students who are contributing to student led societies:

DANCE: 2 students won places in the National Youth Dance Company,

which has only 30 national places a year, and whose graduation performance is at Sadler’s Wells. Another student gained a place at the prestigious RADA.

Take up of subjects in the current Sixth Form: Maths:

15 % 25

Sciences:

Economics & Business:

English Lit, Drama and Art:

History & Geography & RPE:

Others:

10 15 % % 20 ? 15 %

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ART & DESIGN I S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E

ART & DESIGN EDEXCEL 9ADO Why study Art? We live in a visually saturated world; the creative industries are booming. Art is the perfect subject to study to develop your creative thinking skills, individuality and technique. A Level lesson emphasis and development on the ability to think laterally and to convey ideas will aid your progression in any career. Art & Design at SDC prepares you think and act as an individual, to have clear and thoughtful research, to write and make creatively and to use a huge array of practical technical skills, all of which make you a flexible and creative problem-solver. At SDC, we prioritise students becoming their own artist. We aim to facilitate student choice and freedom to experiment and try new techniques. Our strength lies within contemporary, conceptually engaging, socially aware art. Small class sizes and strong relationships allow students and teachers to work in an individualised and support way.

Course content There are two components that make up the course, each with stand alone process work and final outcomes; Component 1: Personal Study, Component 2: Externally Set Exam. Within the Personal Investigation, students work through a series of technique workshops that help them develop different skills and visual language in preparation for their individually chosen Personal Study investigation. The investigation and development of the Personal study will be shown through practical studies and a supporting essay. Students will have opportunities to generate practical work, ideas and research from primary, secondary and contextual sources. They will experiment with media and processes, and develop and refine their ideas, presenting personal and exciting outcomes.

Entry requirements Grade 7 or above in Art and Design GCSE, or a suitable portfolio of similar standard artwork undertaken over time that meets Department approval if Art GCSE was not taken.

Enrichment

Progression Students may go onto study at Foundation level, followed by degree courses such as Fine Art, Fashion, Architecture, Photography and Graphic Design.

Assessment Students submit supporting studies and practical outcome(s) in response to the given theme. Supporting studies will consist of annotation, research and compiled contextual references; practical exploration of material and techniques, recordings from primary sources and developmental stages of practice work leading with refined practical outcome(s). There is a sustained focus period of 15 hours under examination conditions in which students produce their final response(s) to the theme. Personal Investigation – 60% of the qualification. Part 1 – Personal Investigation: Students submit supporting studies and practical outcome(s). Part 2 – Personal Study: Students to produce a personal study involving an element of research of 3000 words maximum. The subject(s) explored in the personal study must link to and be informed by their practical supporting studies. Externally Set Assignment – 40% of qualification. This represents the culmination of the A Level course. The assignment will be externally set and consist of one broad-based thematic starting point, released on February 1. The delivery of this component is planned with appropriate guidance during the preparatory period, encouraging independence in the development of student ideas intentions and response. There is a sustained focus period of 15 hours under examination conditions in which students produce their final response(s) to the theme.

• Weekly A Level Clinic and Enrichment Club with one-on-one support and extra workshops. • Regular gallery and museum visits that allow us to experience London’s culturally rich offer. Recent visits have been to Tate Modern, Royal Academy of Arts, Hayward Gallery, Serpentine Gallery and the Barbican. • Artist workshops and visit. These have recently included life drawing courses, sculpture workshops, and talks on diversity and inclusivity in art. • Foundation Course application and guidance workshops. These aim to help students develop a portfolio, have interview practice and find the best foundation course for them.

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S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E I BIOLOGY

BIOLOGY AQA 7402 Why study Biology? Students gain an exciting insight into the contemporary world of Biology. The course covers key concepts of biological science and practical skills are integrated throughout the course. This combination of academic challenge and practical focus ensures the course is pacey and exciting. At St Dunstan’s we aim to make you a confident Biologist who is able to apply their knowledge to practical work in our new state-of-the art labs in the new STEM Building. We will challenge you and support you to be the very best you can be!

Course content

Assessment

Biological molecules, cells, and organisms exchange substances with their environment, genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms, energy transfers, organisms responding to changes in their environment, genetics and gene expression.

All content is examined at the end of the 2 year course:

There is also a strong practical element. AQA has set 12 Required Practicals, but many more are included as part of the course.

Paper 3 – Years 1 & 2 content. 2 hours. 30% weighting.

Paper 1 – Year 1 content. 2 hours. 35% weighting. Paper 2 – Year 2 content. 2 hours. 35% weighting.

Progression Many A Level Biology students go on to read Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science, Biology, Environmental Science, Psychology or Zoology. Career prospects for graduate Biologists are increasing in number: exciting new opportunities are opening up in such areas as molecular genetics and biotechnology. On the other hand, many students who have enjoyed their study of biology go on to successful careers in nonbiological fields, for example in industry and commerce.

Entry requirements GCSE Grade 7 or above in Biology and a 7 or above in GCSE Mathematics. There is an ongoing and considerable need to use mathematics in A Level Biology and students must be confident they will be able to manage this requirement. 20% of the marks across the three A Level papers is awarded for mathematical skills.

Enrichment

• Throughout Year 12 and 13 there are many enrichment opportunities such as a residential Ecology Trip to Flatford Mill, Biology in Action, a conference about topical themes in Biology as well as DNA Fingerprinting at Wakehurst Place. A Level Biologists often choose to attend and lead MedSoc, where they discover more about Medical Ethics and topical themes in Medicine.

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BUSINESS I S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E

BUSINESS EDEXCEL 9BSO Why study Business? If you are interested in the world of business and its innovative and exciting theories and you would like to examine, understand and practise the skills, then this is a fantastic course for you. Whilst studying Business you will apply your knowledge and understanding to real-life business contexts, reflecting on issues impacting on modern businesses and real business case studies. You will develop key transferable skills including numeracy, communication, and an understanding of the business environment and commercial awareness, all of which are highly valued by universities and industry. At St Dunstan’s we provide students with high academic challenge through exposure and engagement with a range of higher-level texts and guest speakers.

Course content Theme 1: Marketing and people Theme 2: Managing business activities Theme 3: Business decisions and strategy Theme 4: Global business

Progression A Level Business offers an excellent foundation for all business-related subjects at university. It is particularly useful to those wishing to study any of the following: Business Management, Accountancy, Finance and Marketing. Additionally, the skills and knowledge gained through this course prepares students for business, management and financial apprenticeships and the workplace in general. Business is an excellent companion course to almost any A Level profile, providing an understanding of enterprise and development of business ideas.

Assessment Paper 1: Marketing, people and global business (9BSO/01) Questions from themes 1&4, written examination, 2 hours long, 100 marks, 35% of final qualification. Paper 2: Business activities, decisions and strategy (9BSO/02) Questions from themes 2&3, written examination, 2 hours long, 100 marks, 35% of final qualification. Paper 3: Investigating business in a competitive environment (9BSO/03) Questions from across all themes, prereleased context material in November, written examination, 2 hours long, 100 marks, 30% of final qualification.

Entry requirements GCSE grades 6 or above in English and Mathematics.

Enrichment

• Students will have the opportunity to visit a wide range of businesses, including the Mini factory. The department also invites guest speakers to the College. For example, the IEA and Benjamin Drury aka ‘The Culture Guy’. • Students will be encouraged to participate in the Student Investor Challenge and various enterprise challenges. This is completed in teams providing an opportunity for students to develop team working skills that are invaluable in a higher education and employment setting. • We have a lively Economics and Business Society that meets once a week and discusses a wide range of issues. Students are encouraged to select their own topics of interest and lead discussions. Past examples include the impact of Brexit and the business impact of a Biden presidency in the USA.

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S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E I CHEMISTRY

CHEMISTRY EDEXCEL 9CHO Why study Chemistry? A Level Chemistry is an exciting course which is academically demanding. Everything

you see, touch, taste, or smell, involves Chemistry in some way. As the central science subject, Chemistry fits well with Biology, Physics, and related subjects. Chemists will be needed to help tackle problems facing us such as synthesising the latest wonder drug, finding more environmentally friendly alternatives to plastics and non-renewable fuels, devising better batteries - maybe this will involve you! At St Dunstan’s we aim to make you a confident Chemist who is able to apply their knowledge to practical work in our new state-of-the art labs in the new STEM Building. We will challenge you and support you to be the very best you can be!

Course content Physical Chemistry: Kinetics, Energetics, Equilibria, Thermodynamics, Electrode potentials. Inorganic Chemistry: Bonding and Structure, Atomic Structure, Periodicity, The Transition Metals and their reactions. Organic Chemistry: Alkanes, Alkenes, Halogenoalkanes, Alcohols, Aldehydes and Ketones, Carboxylic acids, Amines, Polymers and Proteins, Organic synthesis, and Modern Analytical Techniques.

Progression A Level Chemistry is a necessity for students wishing to go on and study Dentistry, Medicine and Veterinary Science. Students who wish to go on to careers in these fields are supported throughout the application process. The subject also lays secure foundation for studying Chemistry, Natural Sciences, Physical Sciences, Engineering or related subjects at university. Students will develop transferable skills such as logical and analytical reasoning, evaluation, data analysis and safe laboratory practice, which are valued by universities.

Assessment All content is examined at the end of the 2 year course: Paper 1 – Advanced Inorganic and Physical Chemistry. 1 hour 45 minutes. 30% weighting. Paper 2 – Advanced Organic and Physical Chemistry. 1 hour 45 minutes. 30% weighting. Paper 3 – General and Practical Principles in Chemistry. 2 hours 30 minutes. 40% weighting. Practical Skills – Students will be assessed on the Common Practical Assessment Criteria across at least 12 practical activities. They will either be given a pass or fail for this element of the course.

Entry requirements GCSE/IGCSE grade 7 or above in Chemistry and a grade 7 or above in GCSE Mathematics. There is an ongoing and considerable need to use mathematics in A Level Chemistry and students must be confident they will be able to manage this requirement. 20% of the marks across the three A Level papers is awarded for mathematical skills.

Enrichment

• MedSoc where Year 12/13 students hone their leadership skills to support Yr 10/11 aspiring medics. The Medics, Dentists and Vets prep course: this is a course designed specifically to support Year 12/13 students where they will get a chance to practice UCAT/BMAT papers, practise their interview skills and prepare their UCAS applications. • Sixth Form Chemistry Society where students practise challenging questions to prepare them for the Chemistry Olympiad and The Cambridge Chemistry Challenge. Students will also do advanced practicals and talk about Chemistry in the News. • Trips including to Chemistry Live! where real life working chemists discuss their area of research. Students are able to start getting a flavour of which area of Chemistry they could study at university. Competitions including the Chemistry Olympiad and The Cambridge Chemistry Challenge.

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CLASSICAL CIVILISATION I S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E

CLASSICAL CIVILISATION OCR H408 Why study Classical Civilisation? Students have the opportunity to acquire a sophisticated level of

knowledge and understanding of the classical world. The course offers you the chance to study elements of the literature, visual/material culture and thought of the classical world; get an understanding of their social, historical and cultural contexts. A Level Classical Civilisation will help you to understand the legacy of ancient Greeks and Romans. From women in the ancient world, to the study of religious beliefs and ancient acts of intolerance, Classical Civilisation involves interesting discussions that are directly relevant to today’s world. At St Dunstan’s you will explore antiquity being guided by teachers who are totally passionate about their subject. Should you wish, you will be able to teach yourself classical Greek during Forder time.

Course content Component 1: The World of the Hero. This is a compulsory component comprising of an indepth study Homer’s Iliad and Virgil’s Aeneid. Component Group 2: Culture and the Arts and Greek Theatre (21) Component Group 3: Beliefs and Ideas Politics of the Late Republic (33)

Progression Studying Classical Civilisation at A Level can be very useful. Students not only acquire specific knowledge, but also important transferable skills such as analysing sources and developing independent, critical and evaluative approaches. They learn to formulate and support an argument and gain a valuable understanding of cultures very different to their own. Classics qualifications are naturally particularly valued by Classics departments in universities. An A Level qualification in Classical Civilisation can support university-level study of Classics, Drama, English, History, History of Art, Philosophy and Politics, however, information from UCAS shows that students who studied Classical Civilisation went on to study in such diverse disciplines as Medicine, Veterinary Science and Chemistry and recently Classics and Theology at Cambridge.

Assessment Entry requirements GCSE Classical Civilisation is desirable, but not necessary to study this A Level. Students are expected to have achieved at least a grade 6 in their most relevant GCSE subjects – Classical Civilisation, if taken, or alternatively English or History, for example.

Enrichment

OCR’s A Level in Classical Civilisation consists of three written examinations that are externally assessed.

• Students of Classics have the opportunity to attend the Classics Club and to visit either Greece or Italy on one of the biennial trips organised by the department such as the Bay of Naples, Tivoli and Rome or a trip around The Peloponese and Delphi and of course Athens.

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S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E I COMPUTER SCIENCE

COMPUTER SCIENCE OCR H446 Why study Computer Science? Computers are everywhere and we are currently living in the Digital Age and while computers solve problems to serve people, there is a significant human side to computer science as well. The most important aspect of studying Computer Science at A Level is problem solving and this essential life skill will be crucial to being able to understand how technology plays a huge part in our daily lives. What is different at SDC: At St Dunstan’s, our aim is to inspire and encourage students to step out of their comfort zone and try something new. We don’t just teach the specification; we encourage you to read and study beyond the syllabus. By doing so, you will have a better idea of what industry you want to work in before you get to university. We will give you all the tools you need to be a Computer Scientist – it’s up to you to show us what you can do!

Course content You will be introduced to the internal components of the CPU, software development, data types and legal and ethical issues surrounding technology. Computational thinking and programming will also play a huge role in this course.

Progression Given the prevalence of computer technology in society today, there are many different career possibilities for those studying Computer Science. Cyber security, software development, engineering, programming, web development and project management are just a few of the many jobs available for those who work in this industry. The right job however, will depend on your personal skills, values and interests.

Assessment The course is assessed with two written papers (worth 80%) on Computer systems and Programming and a final project (worth 20%). Students will analyse, design, develop, test, evaluate and document a program written in a suitable programming language for their practical project. The examinations have a range of questions from multiple-choice to short written answers and extended essays.

Entry requirements Grade 7 or above in GCSE Computer Science and/or a grade 7 or above in Mathematics.

Enrichment

• There are a number of enrichment opportunities throughout Year 12 and 13, including trips to HSBC and Credit Suisse. External speakers from Braniac, Cyber Discovery and R3 Blockchain will also give you an insight into their roles and share their expertise on the range of careers in Computer Science.

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GLOBAL PERSPECTIVES & RESEARCH I S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E

CAMBRIDGE INTERNATIONAL AS & A LEVEL GLOBAL PERSPECTIVES & RESEARCH 923 Why study Global Perspectives & Research? Take a global look at the most pressing and urgent questions facing us today. Climate change, artificial intelligence, LGBTQ+ rights, equality in world sport, BLM or access to Covid vaccinations can all be on the agenda. The different perspectives people take on these are examined, analysed and evaluated. Further research is done and your own perspectives grow. You learn to communicate these in a clear, considered and compelling way. This skills-based course develops reasoning, analytical, research and communication skills. These are essential for study at A Level and beyond, so all Year 12 students study Global Perspectives in the Michaelmas term. As part of the flexibility of the St Dunstan’s Diploma you can then choose to continue with Global Perspectives as part of an A Level qualification and develop these skills up to undergraduate level. Global Perspectives is key to the development of a St Dunstan’s student as an independent, curious, forward-thinking global citizen.

Course content Year 12 Michaelmas term – develop Research, Analysis and Evaluation, Reflection and Communication skills by applying them to three global themes. Year 12 Lent and Trinity Term Students who have opted to take Global Perspectives to an AS-Level qualification: • Write an Essay on a global topic of their choice • Complete a Team Project on a local problem of global significance • Prepare for an externally set Examination, sat in Trinity Term These make up an AS-Level qualification. Year 12 Trinity Term and Year 13 Michaelmas Term Students who have completed the AS Level qualification can choose to convert this into a full A Level by doing the Cambridge Research Report. This is a 5000 word individual research report or field study into a topic of their own choice. Students have the dedicated support of a specialist mentor, and most of the work is done independently over the summer break.

Enrichment

Progression Both the AS Level and A Level qualification carry UCAS points. They help in the development of academic skills needed at undergraduate level and Global Perspectives students have received lower offers from universities as a result.

Assessment The Essay, the Team Project and Examination are externally assessed and make up an AS Level qualification If a student chooses to complete a Cambridge Research Report as well, this is also externally assessed. Together they make up a full A Level.

Entry requirements Standard requirements for entry into St Dunstan’s Sixth Form

• Each student has a lot of freedom over what topics to cover. As such the course is a springboard to independent research and inquiry into almost anything. They are encouraged to follow their curiosity – and delve deeper into what excites them and what they are passionate about studying after school.

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S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E I DESIGN TECHNOLOGY

DESIGN ENGINEERING: DESIGN TECHNOLOGY: PRODUCT DESIGN AQA 7552 Why study Design Technology? Studying A Level Design and Technology develops your problem solving, planning, evaluation, communication and teamwork skills, not to mention being a fantastic forum through which to showcase your creativity. This course covers a wide range of design disciplines, but is firmly rooted in the skills required to design, engineer and manufacture high quality, functional and aesthetically pleasing products.

Course content A Level Design Technology (Product Design) requires students to engage in both practical and theoretical study. This specification requires students to cover design and technology skills and knowledge in the following key areas: technical principles and designing and making principles.

Progression The investigative, analytical, creative and evaluative skills acquired via this course are valuable in their own right and are highly transferable to other areas of study. Students completing A Level Design Technology might consider Product Design, Packaging Design, Architectural Technology, Marketing, Television and Film Set Design, Interior Design, Garden Design, Furniture Design, Automotive Product Design or 3D Digital Modelling and Animation. This course also complements other A Level subjects to prepare students for further study and careers in Engineering and Fine Arts.

Assessment Public Examination on Technical principles: Written exam: 2 hours and 30 minutes, 30% of Qualification, Mixture of short answer and extended response questions. Public Examination on Designing and making principles:

Entry requirements GCSE Design Technology is essential for A Level study. If it was taken, a grade 7 or above is expected. Students must have well-developed sketching skills, be computer literate with some experience of graphics software and desktop publishing. Also expected is a grade 6 or above in Mathematics, a Science or Art.

Written exam: 1 hour and 30 minutes, 20% of Qualification, Mixture of short answer and extended response questions. Non-exam assessment (NEA) – Coursework Project, 50% of Qualification, Written design portfolio and photographic evidence of prototype.

Enrichment

• We attend the Product Design in Action lecture series in London each year. This series features leading designers from the UK design industry.

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DRAMA I S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E

DRAMA WJEC A690QS Why study Drama? Drama and Theatre Studies A Level study will provide you with an in-depth knowledge

about everything that happens on stage: the acting and directing, the set and staging, costumes, lighting, sound and other technical aspects of theatre. You will read and study plays considering not only the text but also the performance and staging of the work. All A Level Drama and Theatre Studies students work as either performers and/or designers on at least three different performances. The focus of Drama at the College remains on creating new work, rather than simply re-imagining or re-interpreting the work of others. We encourage students to work as an ensemble and to focus on creating altruistic opportunities to give back to their local communities. We do not seek to create lead roles or make theatre about the talent of individuals; instead, we choose to focus of the power of ensemble theatre that educates as much as it entertains. We hope you would like to be part of that vision!

Course content Component 1: Theatre Workshop. Learners participate in the creation, development and performance of a piece of theatre based on a reinterpretation of an extract from a text chosen from a list supplied by WJEC. The piece must be developed using the techniques and working methods of either an influential theatre practitioner or a recognised theatre company. Learners must produce a realisation of the performance or design and a creative log. Component 2: Learners participate in the creation, development and performance of two pieces of theatre based on a stimulus supplied by WJEC. Learners must realise their performance live for the visiting examiner. Learners choosing design must also give a 5-10 minute presentation of their design to the examiner. Learners produce a process and evaluation report within one week of completion of the practical work. Component 3: Exam paper based on 3 set texts.

Progression Drama students develop excellent abilities in written and verbal analysis and evaluation, skills which are highly valued by universities and employers. As such, the subject relevance is not limited to supporting performing artsbased future pathways. However, for those who do wish to explore drama as a career, there are many professional drama schools (NCDS) offering degree courses. Drama and Theatre Studies is a well-regarded and academic qualification, whether you take it with a view to a career in performance or not.

Assessment Component 1 – Devised Theatre (20% of A Level)- Assessed in Year 12 Component 2 – Text Study(40% of A Level)Assessed in Year 13 Component 3 – Written Exam 2hr 30 mins (20% of A Level) - Assessed in Year 13

Entry requirements A grade 7 or above in GCSE Drama and a grade 6 or above in GCSE English.

Enrichment

• You will have the opportunity to see a great deal and variety of live theatre around London, as well as the chance to work with a number of professional actors/ directors as you study acting techniques in both lessons and through workshops.

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S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E I ECONOMICS

ECONOMICS AQA 7136 Why study Economics? Economics is a subject full of controversy allowing students to consider the topical

issues of the day in a lively and analytical way. A Level Economics will give you an excellent understanding of how economies allocate their scarce resources to meet the needs and wants of their citizens. You will develop a greater understanding of the economic problems which face individuals, firms, and governments on a local, national, and global level and the alternative ways these problems can be resolved. You will investigate microeconomic topics such as how individual decisions impact economic outcomes, the importance of competition, how markets operate and why they fail and how the distribution of income and wealth is affected. At the same time, you will learn about macroeconomics, looking at the ‘big picture’ of how our national economy fits into the global context, the global impact of financial markets and monetary policy and the operation of the international economy. At St Dunstan’s we provide students with academic challenge through exposure and engagement with a range of higher-level texts and guest speakers.

Course content Microeconomics: Individuals, Firms, Markets, and Market Failure: • Economic methodology and economic principles • Price determination in a competitive market & elasticities • Market failure & government intervention • Production, costs, revenue, profits & market structures • The labour market & the distribution of income & wealth Microeconomics: The National and International Economy: • Objectives of government economic policy • Circular flow of income & AD/AS • Demand-side policies & supply-side policies • Inflation • Unemployment • Exchange rate systems & balance of payments • Financial markets • Globalisation, trade, and economic development

Entry requirements

Progression A Level Economics is excellent preparation for almost any university course and for a wide range of careers in the future. The analytical and evaluative skills students gain are highly valued by universities. While it is obviously very useful to those wishing to study Economics, it is also of great use to prospective Management Science, Humanities, Politics, Philosophy, Law and even Science students.

Assessment The course is assessed at the end of Year 13 in 3 separate examinations. Paper 1: Markets and market failure. Written exam, 2 hours, 80 marks, 33% of final qualification. Paper 2: National and international economy. Written exam, 2 hours, 80 marks, 33% of final qualification. Paper 3: Economic principles and issues. Written exam, 80 marks, 33% of final qualification.

GCSE grade 7 or above in Mathematics and a grade 6 or above in English.

Enrichment

• We have a lively Economics and Business Society that meets once a week and discusses a wide range of issues. Students are encouraged to select their own topics of interest and lead discussions. • The department also invites guest speakers to the College, attends LSE lectures and arranges trips to a wide range of organisations including the Bank of England and the Mini factory near Oxford. • Students participate in the Student Investor Challenge. • All students read higher level academic texts such as Nudge and Doughnut Economics.

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ENGLISH LITERATURE I S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E

ENGLISH LITERATURE AQA 7717AA Why study English Literature? If you are passionate about reading, love examining texts and analysing ideas and language, you will thoroughly enjoy A Level study in English Literature at St Dunstan’s College. You will be guided by knowledgeable and passionate teachers, through the study of a broad selection of both classic and modern texts and have plenty of opportunities to debate and challenge ideas presented in the material and by your classmates. Along the way, you will gain excellent training in analytical thinking and writing as well as being given tailored individual support and challenged to ensure you achieve your maximum academic potential.

Course content Literary Genres: Tragedy set texts: Aspects of Tragedy (Othello, Death of a Salesman, and Tess of the D’Urbervilles). Texts and Genres: Elements of Crime set texts: Atonement, Brighton Rock, and Rime of the Ancient Mariner. Theory and Independence: Coursework: A module in which students explore literature through a range of critical perspectives resulting in two non-examined assignments. *Please note texts taught are subject to change. Those identified above were taught to our 2020/21 cohort.

Progression English Literature helps to develop your ability to handle complex ideas and interpret information in a wider context. It also helps you to develop your planning and research skills, as well as gaining knowledge of history, culture, and philosophy. As well as being a core requirement for the further study of English Literature at degree level, an A Level in English Literature allows you to keep your options open, particularly if you are not sure what you want to study at university and will support application to a wide range of degree courses.

Assessment Paper 1: Literary Genres. 2 hours 30 minutes. Closed book. Paper 2: Texts and Genres. 3 hours. Open book. Theory and Independence consists of two coursework essays of 1250 – 1500 words each.

Entry requirements GCSE grade 7 or higher in both English Language and English Literature. You must also enjoy reading and discussing texts: a reading list is available from the English Department if you would like to begin preparing in advance.

Enrichment

• Students are welcome to participate in senior debating and to take a leading role in English Society which is an opportunity to read and discuss a diverse range of texts. Students are also welcome to submit articles or creative writing for publication in our Senior School Magazine.

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S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E I FURTHER MATHEMATICS

FURTHER MATHEMATICS OCR (MEI) 7896 Why study Further Mathematics? You should study Further Mathematics if you look forward to Mathematics lessons, cannot wait to solve the most complex problems your Mathematics teacher sets you and have a true passion for exploring the subject in far greater depth. In Further Mathematics, you start to explore matrices, imaginary numbers and vectors, and delve into the more analytical areas of Mechanics and Statistics considered too challenging for the standard A Level course. Studying Further Mathematics at St Dunstan’s College enables you to work with specialists from across the different fields of Mathematics and explore in greater depth the applications and derivations of fascinating, useful and complex concepts.

Course content Pure Core, Further Mechanics and Further Statistics.

Progression Only a small number of Mathematics degrees list Further Mathematics A Level as essential. This is mainly due to the fact that the subject is not offered in all schools or colleges. It is, however, essential to support applications for Mathematics at the most competitive universities and would be highly beneficial to anyone planning to study a course rooted in Mathematics.

Assessment The course is assessed by examination only, at the end of Year 13. There are three examinations: Pure Core: 2 hours 40 minutes. Mechanics Major: 2 hours 15 minutes. Statistics Minor: 1 hour 15 minutes.

Entry requirements A grade 8 or above in GCSE Mathematics is required.

Enrichment

• Every A level Mathematics student takes part in the UKMT Senior Mathematics Challenge in the Michaelmas term. Many of our students qualify for the follow-on rounds. We also enter the UKMT Senior Team Challenge and two of the four Hans Woyda team members are from Years 12 and 13. Advanced Maths Club provides an opportunity to explore areas of Mathematics beyond the scope of the course and gain an insight into the work of famous mathematicians. This club also leads into STEP and MAT practice for those required to sit Mathematics university entrance papers. Chess and Go clubs are available to practise strategic thinking and have some fun at the same time.

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GEOGRAPHY I S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E

GEOGRAPHY CIE 9696 Why study Geography? Geography aims to bring together the wide range of ideas that shape the world we live in and explain how we can adapt and work with them. It offers huge variety, is fundamentally contemporary, and links clearly to real world examples and case studies. Geographers are able to combine skills: analysis, data interpretation and fieldwork, combined with the ability to explain your ideas and evaluate them for an audience. Our selected specification offers the best that Geography has to offer with great depth and breadth without the coursework or fieldwork requirements.

Course content At GCSE, you learned different units and brought them together through the course. The Cambridge Geography course is more like a university-style approach, and allows you to clearly separate your Physical Geography and Human Geography topics. You will have lessons with different specialist teachers, and work towards completing Core and Advanced Options which are all assessed in logical exams at the end of the course. Students should be prepared to be studying across both sides of Geography: some processes, numeracy and data skill is required, together with the ability to synthesise and judge in short essay questions.

Progression Geography at university allows you to specialise in your preferred topics, get a real sense of how to connect ideas together, and through extensive fieldwork opportunities culminating in your dissertation. You would be a graduate able to gather ideas, data and then evaluate them, and present them to an audience. Geographers are marketable and employable, and find work in a huge variety of fields: from environmental analysis, oil and gas exploration, climate change research, to careers in banking, law and management consulting.

Enrichment

Assessment All assessment is linear and examined: there is no controlled assessment or coursework component. You will sit four exams, each 1 ½ hours long, for each of the topic areas described. Paper 1: Core Physical Geography, fluvial geomorphology, atmosphere and weather, and rocks and weathering. Paper 2: Core Human Geography: population, migration and settlement dynamics. Paper 3: Advanced Physical Geography: Hazards and Hot Arid Environments. Paper 4: Advanced Human Geography: global interdependence and economic transitions.

Entry requirements A grade 7 in Geography GCSE is expected. Students with a grade 6 might be considered in exceptional circumstances depending on performance across Middle School. It is unlikely that students who have not studied GCSE Geography will go on to succeed at A Level.

• Senior Geography Society offers a seminar-style approach to debating and discussing world issues as well as the option to attend lectures at the Royal Geographical Society and other world class venues. We have local and international field trips – we’ve previously been to both Iceland and Sicily to climb volcanoes!

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S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E I HISTORY

HISTORY OCR H505 Why study History? History is not just about knowledge of the past; it plays a vital role in helping us to understand the present: who we are, where we have come from, the people around us, and the world and societies in which we live. An understanding of History will help you better appreciate different cultures and people, as well as provide a lens through which to analyse current events. You will develop your analytical and reasoning skills. The style of our lessons often follows a similar approach to what a student might expect of a university tutorial—critical discussions of pre-reading, leading to a more informed view of the controversy in question. As such, History A Level at St Dunstan’s is a great way of developing independent learners, critical thinkers and confident oral contributors— all assets as you progress to higher education and the workplace. Course content Year 12: The Early Tudors, 1485-1558 Democracy and Dictatorships in Germany, 1919-1963 Year 13: Civil Rights in the USA, 1865-1992. Coursework on a historical controversy of your choice related to the reign of Elizabeth I, 1558-1603.

Progression History is highly valued academically in its own right and to support other pathways. Other popular degree courses for A Level History students include Politics, International Relations, Law or Joint Honours with Economics or Languages, amongst others. Students can go on to specialise in History in university departments, as archaeologists, museum curators, librarians, teachers and archivists – but most use it as a means of entry to other professions - the law, politics, journalism, banking, or business.

Assessment Early Tudors, 1485-1558 —1h 30m exam involving a choice of two essays and a sourcebased essay (25% of the final qualification). Democracy and Dictatorships in Germany, 1919-1963 —1 hour exam involving a 10mark essay and a 20-mark essay (15% of the final qualification). Civil Rights in the USA, 1865-1992 -2h30m exam involving a choice of two out of three 25-mark thematic essays and one 30mark passages question (40% of the final qualification). Coursework: A 3000-4000 word essay on Elizabeth I (20% of the final qualification). You choose an essay from a large range of options that suit your interests.

Entry requirements A grade 7 in GCSE History is expected. Students with a Grade 6 will be considered but you should have a clear willingness to read and have an enjoyment of it. It is unlikely that students who have not studied GCSE History will go on to succeed at A Level.

Enrichment

• The Senior History Society provides opportunities to hear (and give!) talks on a range of topics outside our course content. We run A Level lecture trips and are in the process of organising a Civil Rights trip to the USA in 2022 for both Year 12 and 13. To help students develop independence, we are fortunate to have a wide range of resources available to students through Firefly and the library. Each unit of study also comes with a handy reading list.

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LATIN I S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E

LATIN OCR H443 Why study Latin? This subject offers you the opportunity to study elements of the language and literature of

the Classical world, acquiring in the process understanding of the culture, politics and social life of Rome at significant periods in its history. At St Dunstan’s students who chose Latin proved themselves to be completely devoted to the subject, resilient and courageous in tackling the most challenging passages, including the favourites – Scansion and Prose Composition. Teachers from the Classics department are renowned for their passion for the subject and for creating an academically galvanising, immersive, yet friendly and supportive atmosphere in the classroom.

Course content Students build on their knowledge of vocabulary and linguistic structures. They also study two Latin prose literature set texts and two Latin verse literature set texts in depth. Students also study additional literature in translation in order to understand the context from which the set texts have been taken. The prescribed authors for the examinations in 2023 are Cicero Pro Cluentio, Tacitus Annals IV, Virgil Aeneid XII and Ovid Heroides I and VII.

Progression A Level Latin is a prestigious subject which combines well with English, other languages, Mathematics, History and many other subjects. With a qualification in Latin, you could go on to Higher Education or directly into employment. Higher Education Admissions Tutors and employers prize the transferable skills which the discipline develops, especially analytical and problemsolving skills, intellectual flexibility and an independent work ethic. It is also a useful subject to support degrees in Classical Studies and Philosophy.

Assessment OCR’s A Level in Latin consists of four written examinations that are externally assessed. Latin Language: Unseen Translation (01). Prose Composition or Comprehension (02). Set text: Prose Literature (03). Prose Verse (04).

Entry requirements A grade 7 or above in GCSE Latin.

Enrichment

• Students of Classics have the opportunity to enrich their language skills in clubs such Classical Greek Club and Latin Poetry. Moreover, they can also visit either Greece or Italy on one of the biennial trips organised by the department.

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S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E I MATHEMATICS

MATHEMATICS OCR (MEI) 7895 Why study Mathematics? Students who love studying Mathematics at A Level enjoy the technical nature of

the subject and find satisfaction in employing a variety of techniques to find solutions to problems. You should study Mathematics if you enjoy working with algebra, using it to form and solve equations to find the answers to a variety of real-life problems. Mathematicians are particularly interested in how equations relate to graphs and what this means to the world we inhabit, which is something you will be able to explore in greater depth at A Level. You will learn how to tackle a variety of problems using complex mathematical techniques, including calculus. Many employers value applicants who have a qualification in Mathematics highly, as they are logical thinkers and excellent problem solvers. The St Dunstan’s College Mathematics department offers unparalleled opportunities to challenge yourself beyond the scope of the course in our cutting-edge Advanced Maths Club. In class, glean from the insights of subject specialists across the different Mathematical fields, work together through encouraged class wide collaboration on complex problems and receive extensive support on any topics you find a little challenging.

Course content Core, Mechanics and Statistics.

Progression Mathematics is essential to support applications to study: Actuarial Science, Aeronautical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Economics, Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Engineering (General), Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, Statistics. For some universities, especially the most competitive, it is also essential for an application to study: Accountancy, Chemistry, Computer Science, Dentistry, Management Studies, Medicine, Veterinary Science. It is often expected in applications for: Biochemistry, Biomedical Sciences, Environmental Science/Studies, Geology/ Earth Sciences, Materials Science, Optometry, Pharmacy, Physiotherapy, Psychology, Sports Science.

Assessment The course is assessed by examination only, at the end of Year 13. There are three 2 hour long examinations: Core & Mechanics Core & Statistics Core & Comprehension

Entry requirements A grade 7 or above in GCSE Mathematics.

Enrichment

admissions@stdunstans.org.uk

MODERN LANGUAGES I S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E

MODERN LANGUAGES (AQA) Why study a Modern Language? Competence in a Modern Foreign Language and the transferable skills

acquired at A Level and beyond, are highly regarded and sought after by employers. Universities consider a language at A Level to be a facilitating subject. This is an exciting opportunity to gain a deeper linguistic and cultural understanding of French, German and/or Spanish in a dynamic, interactive and fun classroom environment. What is different at St Dunstan’s: Students study in small groups ensuring for maximum impact on speaking and listening. Students are provided with bespoke speaking plans run by our Foreign Language Assistants and will have 1-1 sessions each week providing students with the opportunity to ask questions, get answers and make excellent progress.

Course content The core content is:

Assessment

1. Social issues and trends

Students will sit all their exams at the end of the two year course.

2. Political and artistic culture

How it’s assessed:

3. Grammar

1. Listening / Reading / Translation exercises: 2 hours 30 mins (100 marks, 50% of A Level).

4. Works: the study of literary texts and films

Progression This course offers an excellent foundation for those wishing to study languages and/or a wide range of other subjects at university. It leads naturally to careers in the UK and abroad in business, finance, law, the arts and the media, where fluency in a foreign language is increasingly valued. Most modular university courses in other disciplines now contain a language element, and many British universities (e.g. , Bristol, Durham, Exeter, Sheffield) offer the opportunity to study abroad under the Erasmus scheme. Graduates in Modern Languages have excellent employment prospects.

2. Written exam based on the literary texts / film studied: 2 hours (80 marks in total, 20% of A Level). 3. Oral exam: (60 marks in total, 30% of A Level).

Entry requirements A grade 7 or above in the GCSE of the target language.

Enrichment

• We encourage all students to spend some time in the country of the foreign language they are studying in order to help with language immersion. • Trips to the Instituto Cervantes, Institut franςais or the Goethe Institute are organised as well as study days run by the exam board. Work experience abroad is organised through Halsbury and a St Dunstan’s bursary of £500 is offered an to outstanding language leader in Year 12 upon application. • Year 12 students run the MFL society and have the opportunity to develop leadership in languages becoming language ambassadors for the college. The first event is International Week of Languages in September.

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S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E I MUSIC

MUSIC AQA 7272 Why study Music? Music is a central life force of human expression, creativity and meaning. It is constantly evolving in its representation and interpretation of a complex and non-binary reality, sound symbolising the ineffable and the uncanny. This is a contemporary and versatile qualification that offers you the chance to study a wide range of genres, through listening and appraisal, performance and composition. The course values all styles, skills and instruments, and is designed to broaden your mind and foster a love and understanding of all music. You will develop yourself as a performing musician, as well as extending your theoretical understanding of composition and musical analysis. You will also develop your music technology and recording skills.

Course content Component 1: Students learn to apply specialist terminology to listening extracts and scores of the music, developing their aural, analytical and written skills as well as an understanding of the contextual factors shaping the works. Areas of Study: Western Classical Tradition 1650-1910), Pop Music, Music for Media, Music for Theatre, Jazz, World Music and Art Music since 1910. Component 2: Performance – Students are mentored to formulate and develop an ambitious and varied programme for a public recital to take place in Trinity term of Year 13. Component 3: Composition – Students learn how to develop their musical ideas and use technology to create compositions that are ambitious and performable. We use Sibelius, Noteflight and Logic Pro software.

Entry requirements A grade 7 in GCSE Music and be actively learning an instrument or voice at a standard equivalent to Grade 6 at the start of the course. Experience or a commitment to learning musical notation is also desirable.

Progression Music is a highly regarded academic subject by universities and employers and students develop wide-ranging and transferable skills, such as aural and written analysis, interpretation of multi-faceted musical data, performance confidence, creativity and facility with technology. The qualification is an excellent foundation for undergraduate Music degrees at university or performance, composition or music production specialisation at Music conservatoires. The transferable skills developed make Music a facilitating subject for pursuing degrees or careers in the Performing Arts, Humanities, Law or Technology.

Assessment Component 1: Appraising music (40%): Written Exam – 2hr30m. Students answer short and longer form questions based on listening extracts from their selected areas of study, including one 30 mark essay. Component 2: Performance (35%): Public Recital: 10 minutes minimum. Students prepare and perform a recital of at least 10 minutes in their chosen discipline, solo and/or ensemble performing or live music production Component 3: Composition (25%): Composition Portfolio 2 compositions of a total minimum 4min30seconds Composition 1 is to a brief set by the board in a style that the student has studied. Composition 2 is a free composition in the student’s chosen style.

Enrichment • The Music department offers a large range of ensembles and performance opportunities that will develop you as a performer, whatever your instrument or favoured style. Masterclasses and workshops with industry professionals are offered throughout the year in performance and composition. There are frequent trips to concerts in London to enrich understanding. The opening of the exciting new Performing Arts Facility means that students have access to a Recital Room, Recording Studio, Music Tech suite and Practice Rooms to enhance their studies.

admissions@stdunstans.org.uk

PHYSICS I S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E

PHYSICS AQA 7408 Why study Physics? Physics a fascinating subject that will satisfy the minds of those who are curious about the laws that govern the behaviour of everything from a quark to a red supergiant. It is also a practical subject, so if you learn best from hands-on experience, you will make excellent progress. Studying Physics will develop you as an allround person, as it requires data handling, Mathematics and ICT, as well as imagination, creativity and communication skills. At St Dunstan’s College, we ensure that all students have experience of being a practising Physicist. Whether it is writing code for the International Space Station, analysing the LHC data set to find the Higgs Boson, or using an electron microscope to study the structure of ant eyes, we want all students to have felt the excitement of being a scientist over just learning about them.

Course content The course is linear, but broken up into topics that are covered by all students. Topics covered include: Fundamental particles, Quantum mechanics and light, Waves, Mechanics, Newton’s Laws, Work and energy, Material properties, Electrical Circuits, Circular Motion, Simple Harmonic Motion, Gravitational and Electric Fields, Capacitors, Magnetic Flux, AC, DC and Transformers, Nuclear Physics, Radioactivity, Astrophysics. There is also a strong practical element. AQA has set 12 Required Practicals, but many more are included as part of the course.

Progression Physics is highly valued by universities and employers. Physicists are in demand in the world of science, but also in banking, finance and any business that values clear, logical thinking. STEM graduates have strong earning potential. St Dunstan’s Physics students have gone on to read any of the following: Physics, Biology, Chemistry, Engineering, Medicine, Computer Science, Economics, Mathematics, Material Science, Geology, Sport Science, Neuroscience, International Management.

Assessment There are 3 examinations in the summer of Year 13. Papers 1 & 2 each represent 34% of the total. Paper 3 (worth 32%) covers the option topic, and practical skills and data analysis. All last 2 hours.

Entry requirements

The 12 Required Practicals are internally assessed over the two years of the course for a separate qualification, the Practical Endorsement.

A grade 7 in GCSE Physics and a grade 7 in GCSE Mathematics. There is an ongoing and considerable need to use mathematics in A Level Physics and students must be confident they will be able to manage this requirement.

Enrichment

• Clubs currently running include: Physics Masterclass and Physics Society. • Competitions and project undertaken include UK Space Design Competition, Astro Pi and Isaac Physics Senior Physics Challenge. • Trips have included CERN, the Royal Society, Diamond Synchrotron, and Imperial College.

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S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E I PSYCHOLOGY

PSYCHOLOGY AQA 7182 Why study Psychology? Have you ever wondered why most people conform to social norms? What does it mean to be abnormal? Why do we forget things? How does your relationship with your parents affect future relationships? How is the brain structured?

Psychology is the scientific study of behaviour and the brain. Through evaluation and analysis of scientific theories, the Psychology A Level course will allow you to form your own answers to these questions and more. To study psychology at St Dunstan’s means to be encouraged to develop independence of thought, where analysis of research studies and theories forms the basis of classroom discussion and debate. With tailored support and frequent exposure to exam material, your essay writing and maths skills will improve and you will become experts in applying your psychological understanding to the real world.

Course content Psychology is a broad A Level which encompasses a range of different topics, from the effects of society on behaviour to theories of attachment, as well as considering issues and debates in the subject. The course will also provide students with an understanding of how psychological research is carried out and the analysis of that research.

Progression Psychology A Level students can go into a vast array of careers which are both directly and indirectly linked to the subject. Typical fields include: • Clinical Psychology • Educational Psychology • Sport Psychology • Criminology • Counselling • Teaching • Healthcare

Assessment The course is entirely assessed by three written papers. All papers are two hours long and each of them contribute equally to the overall A Level. Paper 1 – Introductory Topics in Psychology Paper 2 – Psychology in Context Paper 3 – Issues and Options in Psychology The examinations include a combination of multiple-choice, short answer and extended written answers. At least 10% of the overall assessment of psychology will contain mathematical skills and all papers require an understanding of the research methods used in psychological studies.

Throughout the course students will develop a broad skill set, including effective communication, critical thinking and analytical skills as well as developing literacy and numeracy skills.

Entry requirements A grade 7 or above in Biology or a grade 7,7 in Double Science. Students should also be confident in data handling and essay writing skills.

Enrichment

• Extended learning opportunities include trips to academic institutions, visiting speakers and film events.

admissions@stdunstans.org.uk

RELIGION, PHILOSOPHY & ETHICS I S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E

RELIGION, PHILOSOPHY, & ETHICS (RELIGIOUS STUDIES): AQA 7062/2 Why study RPE (Religious Studies)? What is my conscience? Who should decide what is morally right or wrong? What is actually true? Who should decide when to end a life? How can people believe in God in the face of natural evil? How can we ever use language to describe anything? If you want to consider age old questions together with ones that divide the modern world, then Religion, Philosophy, and Ethics (Religious Studies) is ideal! It is a liberal, academic course that gives a foundation in modern philosophical thinking. We explore religious, atheist, moral, and scientific thought, the implications for the future, and there is plenty of room for free discussion. Unique to RPE A Level, students will benefit from the combined expertise of three separate teachers taking one of each of the three strands: Philosophy, Ethics, and Religion.

Course content Philosophy and Ethics – Topics include: How to argue from logic and from experience. The use of analogy in philosophy and the concept of evil; Religious Experiences, miracles and their critique as sociological/ psychological/religious phenomena; The self, the concept of ‘death’ and the humanistic need for an afterlife; Behaviour theories, Abortion, voluntary/involuntary/nonvoluntary euthanasia, assisted dying; Embryo research, cloning, ‘designer babies’, animals as organ transplants for humans. Religion – Topics include: Christianity’s relationship with gender, feminist critiques and post-gender concepts of the Divine; Celibacy, transgenderism, and homosexuality in contemporary society, and its critique of, by, and through “religion”; Christianity versus science; does the progress of one spell the downfall of the other? Pluralism and the freedom of religion, the place of organised/non-organised religion within a secular society; The use of warfare in religion; Nuclear weapons in contemporary politics.

Progression RPE (Religious Studies) has a multi-disciplinary appeal which is highly valued by universities, including Oxbridge and Russell Group. The course helps to sharpen minds and give an individual voice, regardless of future pathways. Philosophy is an asset for anyone who wishes to hone their critical thinking and communication skills, which are highly sought after in business and management, as well as in the arts. Previous students have used RPE to support interests in Medicine, Law, History, English Literature, and PPE. Numbers applying for RPE related degrees is strong, and recent success includes Cambridge, King’s College London, Manchester, Exeter, and other prestigious universities. .

Assessment 2 exams of 3 hours, one on Philosophy and Ethics, the second on Religion and the Dialogue between Philosophy, Ethics, and Religion in contemporary society. There are no coursework elements at A Level.

Entry requirements A grade 7 or above in GCSE Religious Studies is advised. Students may choose the subject not having studied it at GCSE, in which case we would expect at least grade 7 in English and another humanities subject such as History or Geography.

Enrichment

• Since the time of Plato, Philosophy and Ethics have been studied through critical discussion and debate. We continue this tradition, supported by excellent resources and ICT. Our classes are lively, and students engage fully with dialogue and critique. The department has exceptionally wide-ranging books, film, and other media. We run events throughout the year, including trips to lectures. We also plan trips abroad to complement visits to local places of religious, philosophical, or ethical interest.

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S T D U NSSTTA DU NN ’ SSTTA HE N ’SSI X TT HH E FS O I XRTM HE FX OPREMR IEEXNPCEER IIE N SPORT C E I &RELIGIOUS EXERCISE SCIENCE STUDIES

SPORT & EXERCISE SCIENCE OCR H555 Why study Physical Education? This practical and engaging course has been designed to allow students to study Physical Education (PE) in an academic setting, enabling them to critically analyse and evaluate their physical performance and apply their experience of practical activity in developing their understanding of the subject. You can explore an activity in detail as a performer, chosen from a wide variety of activities. You will also analyse and evaluate performance in a chosen activity. The St Dunstan’s Difference is that we provide opportunities for students to develop both their Academic and Performance Pathways through the study of A Level PE. The focus of Academic Pathways is for students to enhance their understanding of the key Sport and Exercise Science principles which underpin effective performance in sport while recognising its benefits on Health and Well-Being. Through specialism and specialist input students will develop their Performance Pathways and continue to grow in alignment with Long Term Athlete Development.

Course content

Assessment

Physical factors affecting performance: Applied anatomy and physiology, Exercise physiology, Biomechanics.

Exam: Physical factors affecting performance (01) 90 marks, 2 hours, 30%

Psychological issues affecting performance: Skill acquisition, Sports psychology.

Exam: Psychological issues affecting performance (02) 60 marks, 1 hour, 20%

Socio-cultural issues in physical activity and sport: Sport and society, Contemporary issues in physical activity and sport. Performance in physical issues: Performance or Coaching, Evaluation and Analysis of Performance for Improvement (EAPI)

Progression The most significant benefits of further study in PE are the opportunities to develop transferable skills that are in demand by further education, Higher Education and employers in all sectors of industry. This specification will create confident, independent thinkers and effective decision makers who can operate effectively as individuals or as part of a team – all skills that will enable them to stand out and effectively promote themselves as they progress through life. This course prepares learners for the further study of PE or sports science courses as well as other related subject areas such as psychology, physiotherapy, sociology and biology.

Enrichment

Exam: Socio-cultural issues in physical activity and sport (03) 60 marks, 1 hour, 20% NEA: Performance in physical issues (04) 60 marks, 30% Components 01, 02 and 03 are exams sat in Year 13. The Performance aspect of Component 04 is assessed continuously throughout the course, and then externally moderated In the Trinity term of Year 13. The EAPI is internally assessed in Lent 2 and then externally moderated along with the Performance in Trinity term.

Entry requirements A grade 7 in either GCSE PE or Biology. It is also essential that you are intending to compete in your chosen sport throughout the course.

• There are a broad range of clubs available within the Sports Department to support students with Component 04. If a student wishes to be assessed in an activity that does not fall within our provision at St Dunstan’s, then they must inform the department as early as possible. Students will attend a revision conference in London in Year 13.

SIXTH FORM TIMELINE I S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E

Year 12 Michaelmas 1

• All students begin on 4 A Levels plus Global Perspectives; Tutor groups assigned • September benchmark test review of subject learning • Leaders assigned mentors, character-building society membership taken up, Diploma Scholar programme & Aiming High begins

Year 12 Michaelmas 2

• October Benchmark tests: attainment shapes direction of travel & subject support • UCAS and Unifrog preparation sessions begin; Scholar & academic societies continue • November consultation week: review of progress, course alterations made, Global Perspectives opted in to AS/A Level, or out of for other Futures courses

• Subject learning continues Year 12 Lent 1

• UCAS One Evening held and individual pathways given more shape • Diploma Scholars change leads of societies. Scholars assigned mentors to shape projects • Aiming High decisions about tests & institution pathways taken

Year 12 Lent 2

• February Benchmarks are held: final alterations to A Level path finalised • Benchmark attainment shapes subject support • Prefecture launched - applications submitted on Trinity return

Year 12 Trinity 1

• Prefect applications accepted and interviews held: Prefecture begins • Preparation for End of Year exams enacted: minimum three CCC grades at A Level by end of the year ensures Y13 will be successful • UCAS university visits and Aiming High and vocational subject testing underway

Year 12 Trinity 2

• End of year exams held: CCC+ grade transition to Y13 enacted or parental conversations held • Work Experience week - placements around London companies • Scholar and Global Perspectives research projects first drafts worked on over the summer • Re-take exams available at the end of Trinity 2, if transition missed

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S T D U N S TA N ’ S T H E S I X T H F O R M E X P E R I E N C E I SIXTH FORM TIMELINE

Year 13 Michaelmas 1

• Subject learning begins, platform test consolidates material learned from Y12 • Prefecture continues; Diploma Scholars with mentor help take on new society groupings • UCAS Two event; UCAS applications submitted and new Futures courses begun • Aiming High students sit external tests; Diploma Scholar project 2nd drafts completed

Year 13 Michaelmas 2

• October Benchmark tests: subject support interventions follow • Diploma Scholar project submitted and Diploma Scholar Symposium held • New Futures courses begun; UCAS applications completed

Year 13 Lent 1

• Subject preparation for Trials continues • Final sets of Futures courses taken and society leadership begins to transition to Year 12 Scholars; Results of Global Perspective Qualification known • Final visits made to universities applied for

Year 13 Lent 2

• Full subject trials, March • UCAS choices narrowed to top two • Final Prefecture term before hand over to Year 12 • Diploma Graduation Ceremony held; Alumnae invitations issued

Year 13 Trinity 1

• Final subject teaching and exam preparation followed by study leave • Final exams taken

Year 13 Trinity 2

• Final exams continue • Summer Ball

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St Dunstan's College Sixth Form Prospectus - For Entry September 2022

Articles inside

A Level Subjects

A Word from our Head of School

Pastoral Support and Wellbeing

Facilities

FUTURES

Diploma Award

Diploma Journeys

KNOWLEDGE

Diploma Scholarships

Aiming High Together