SIXTH FORM GUIDE 2018
Contents Principal’s welcome message Studying at The City Academy, Hackney The Enrichment Programme Work Related Learning and University Support Our facilities & Sixth Form Centre How to apply Entry requirements and admissions A level Course Guide
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Art & Design Biology Business Studies BTEC Business Studies BTEC ICT Chemistry Computer Science Drama & Theatre Economics English Literature French Geography History Maths Further Maths Music Music Technology PE Physics Politics Psychology Philosophy and Ethics Sociology Spanish Textiles 3D Design
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A warm welcome from our Principal, Mark Malcolm The aim of our Sixth Form is to develop young learners into independent, studious and professional young adults, by insisting on the same core values that characterise the work of the academy as a whole. We are transforming lives through education. When we were established in 2009 we set out to build an exceptional academy for our students based on the highest expectations of academic achievement and personal development. Our students have achieved outstanding GCSE results and our third set of A-level results are excellent. In addition, we have received two ‘Outstanding’ grades from Ofsted; we are judged to be ‘Outstanding’ in every category. In 2018, all of our students progressed to university or high level apprenticeships with over a quarter attending Russell group universities. The education we offer and the standards we deliver are not the only reasons for choosing The City Academy, Hackney. We have established links with Russell Group universities including well-established links, through our sponsors, with Clare College, Cambridge and Wadham College, Oxford. Furthermore our STEM students have a unique relationship with Imperial College, London through a personalised tuition programme with postgraduate students. Our joint sponsor, KPMG, provide volunteer subject mentoring as well as paid alternatives to higher education, while The City of London Corporation also offer apprenticeships. Our dedicated University Support Programme and partnership with The Access Project are designed to help students prepare for university. Our hand-picked, experienced Personal Advisers will support, guide, mentor and provide the help and intervention required for students to achieve the best possible grades in their chosen A levels. The Mark Emmerson Sixth Form Centre opened in November 2016 offering exceptional accommodation including a dedicated café, common room, classrooms, study areas and library, adding to our range of excellent facilities including collaborative work areas, gym, Astroturf sports pitch, and industry-standard music and drama studios. Our Sixth Form provides our students, and those who join the academy at 16, with the best opportunities to achieve in a supportive and challenging environment where the highest expectations are reflected in all we do. Mark Malcolm Principal
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STUDYING AT THE CITY ACADEMY, HACKNEY
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ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE There is a strong focus on outstanding academic achievement and university style learning. Teachers use a range of teaching styles along with their exceptional subject knowledge to ensure our students develop independent and critical learning skills, as well as the opportunity to develop the passion and drive to extend their learning. Our core principles of rigour, precision and thoroughness underpin the pedagogy in the Sixth Form.
PARTNERSHIPS We work very closely with some of the top private schools in the country. Our partnership with City of London School for Girls provides a range of support packages to aid our students and teachers, including Oxbridge application assistance, interview practices, BMAT and LNAT workshops, along with various career fairs.
EXTENDED PROJECT QUALIFICATION (EPQ) Students will be able to take the Extended Project Qualification alongside their A level programme of study. Through this project they will be able to develop and improve their own learning and performance as critical, reflective and independent students. The EPQ will be a standalone AS qualification providing students with extra UCAS points. Universities may reduce their offer if a high grade is obtained.
DEBATING AND ACADEMIC LECTURES All our Sixth Form students are exposed to termly debates and academic lectures. We work very closely with professors and lecturers from various top universities who deliver academic lectures to our students so that they begin to familiarise themselves with university style learning that promotes academic rigour.
THE ENRICHMENT PROGRAMME
CREATIVE OPPORTUNITIES Alongside your choice of A level subjects, the academy offers a wide range of activities, clubs and sports both during and outside school hours. Ranging from competitive sports teams to student-run societies for the arts, journalism, science and literature. Our enrichment classes are an enjoyable and valuable addition to our Sixth Form experience. The student leadership team help to lead and design our enrichment opportunities as well as organising Sixth Form socials.
MUSIC ACADEMY The purpose of our Music Academy is to promote excellence in music education. Students applying for a place at The City Academy, Hackney’s Sixth Form can also apply for a music scholarship. The aim of the scholarship programme is to enhance the Sixth Form experience by providing exceptional musical opportunities including working closely with the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, as well as the Barbican. Scholars will be expected to act as ambassadors for the music department at The City Academy, Hackney by performing regularly at prestigious venues and running music events. Accomplished musicians can apply for the scholarship programme. Potential scholars will be invited to attend an audition and places will be offered after a successful interview and audition.
LAMDA Students are able to take LAMDA qualifications as part of their enrichment programme. This qualification will help our students to develop their creative talents along with key qualities and skills needed for university and employment.
SPORTS We timetable 2 hours of compulsory Physical Education for all our Sixth Form students every week. Students are able to choose from a wide range of sports because we firmly believe that a healthy lifestyle is key to physical and emotional wellbeing.
DUKE OF EDINBURGH AWARD All students follow the Duke of Edinburgh Award which provides a framework for accrediting all extra-curricular activities including internships, expeditions, voluntary work, sporting achievements and personal skills.
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WORK-RELATED LEARNING AND UNIVERSITY SUPPORT WORK EXPERIENCE Students receive guidance and support with organising two weeks work-experience placements. In the past, students have taken up placements at Homerton Hospital and the City of London Corporation. Students also receive support finding local volunteer positions within the community from companies such as Barclays, Bank of Canada, Bank of England, KPMG, Kostick Hanan Hertskovic LLP.
INTO UNIVERSITY Workshops and programmes are provided to support young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. Students receive support with writing personal statements and preparing for the processes that come with gaining a university place such as completing student finance applications.
MENTORING PROGRAMMES • • •
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KPMG 360 PA Programme: apprentices currently on the KPMG school leaver
programme act as mentors to students who may be interested in applying for a school leaver programmes/apprenticeship. Imperial College STEM Programme: students studying any of the STEM subjects have access to one-to-one tuition from a post graduate student to help support and develop both thier understanding of the subject and the skills they need. STEM for Girls: this programme targets girls interested in pursuing a career in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Students are allocated a mentor and have the opportunity to do work experience with large companies such as Vodafone & Google. KINGS COLLEGE LONDON: K+ Programme: a two year scheme. Students receive a mentor, take part in academic events, attend a summer school, and receive special consideration when applying to KC. CITY University London University Mentors: undergraduate students in their second and third years provide support and guidance to students in year 13 with UCAS Personal Statements and interview practice.
INSIGHT DAYS Students have the opportunity to attend insight days at a place of work which is relevant to their course. In the past students have visited The Royal College of Surgeons (medicine), Slaughter and May (Law), Deloitte (finance), BT (Business management) and the Chartered Accountants Hall (accountancy).
CAREER TALKS Speakers from an array of backgrounds visit the Academy to speak about their personal experiences. We have welcomed speakers from the Civil Service, National Theatre Company and a variety of professionals including doctors, lawyers and engineers.
CHARTERED INSTITUTE FOR SECURITIES AND INVESTMENT Students have the opportunity to work towards a Level 3 Diploma in Finance, Risk, and Investment alongside their A level studies to further their knowledge of the financial services and learn about career opportunities.
PATHWAYS PROGRAMME The Pathways Programme offers an alternative pathway to university: its aim is to inspire & empower students, helping them to make informed decisions post-year 13. Tailored updates and alerts will inform students on work place opportunities including apprenticeships, work experience, sponsored degrees & gap year schemes. Students will also have the opportunity to attend insight days, visit partner companies, employability training days and much more.
SUPPORT WITH OXBRIDGE APPLICATIONS Preparation for Oxbridge applications begins in year 12 with a bespoke enrichment programme for the highest attaining students. The Academy works with teaching staff and volunteers who have graduated from Oxford and Cambridge University. They speak about their experiences and provide students with support on their applications, entrance exams and interview techniques.
1-2-1 PROGRESSION INTERVIEWS Students in year 13 have personalised interviews to discuss their future plans, such as applying to university or planning a gap year. They may also explore alternative pathways, for example organising volunteering placements, apprenticeships and finding jobs.
THE ACCESS PROJECT The Access Project is an educational charity working in partnership with the academy, with the aim of helping students from disadvantaged areas reach top universities. Students are paired with volunteer academic tutors from the academy’s joint sponsors, KPMG and the City of London Corporation. The subject knowledge of the volunteer graduates plays an important part in supporting students’ progress through one-to-one tutoring.
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THE MARK EMMERSON SIXTH FORM CENTRE
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OUR SIXTH FORM FACILITIES We have a new inspirational, award-winning building with a range of specialist educational facilities as well as dedicated spaces for our Sixth Form students. • • • • •
New Sixth Form Centre including base room, library and study areas Café offering food and refreshments and an informal work space Theatre with a professional sound and lighting system, an industry-standard recording studio and music practice rooms Sports hall, AstroTurf pitch, fitness suite and dance studio Cutting-edge ICT provision including both Mac and PC suites
HOW TO APPLY
All applicants must submit an application form by the deadline and successful candidates will then be invited to attend an interview.
1. APPLICATION FORM To apply for a place in our Sixth Form all students must complete an online application form including: their expected grades, courses they wish to study (chosen from the options grid), and a personal statement. CVs and supporting documents will not be accepted. External candidates must also provide a School Reference Form, completed by a member of staff at their current school/college. The Sixth Form Application Form and School Reference Form can be found online and downloaded from the Sixth Form section of our website.
2. INTERVIEW Following the application deadline, students will be invited to the academy for an interview which will form part of the application process.
3. CONDITIONAL OFFER Successful applicants will receive a conditional offer to join our Sixth Form. The City Academy, Hackney will have up to 150 places available per year. To apply for a place, please follow the step-by-step guide below.
CHECKLIST Attend the academy’s Sixth Form Open Evening Complete the online application form including all personal details, predicted grades and courses you wish to study Ask a member of staff from your current school/college to complete a School Reference Form Submit online both the Application Form and School Reference Form to The City Academy, Hackney by the stated deadline.
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ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Applicants will need: 7 GCSEs including English Language and maths, at grade 9-5 A minimum of grade 6 in the subjects that you want to study at A level (or their nearest equivalent)* * Some A levels require a minimum of GCSE grade 7 (see course requirements as outlined in the Course Guide)
OVER-SUBSCRIPTION CRITERIA In the event of the Sixth Form, or a specific course being over-subscribed, after the admissions criteria outlined above have been met (and the admission of students with an EHCP where The City Academy, Hackney is named on the EHCP) the following over-subscription criteria will apply: 1. Students who were on roll at The City Academy, Hackney in year 11 2. A looked after child or a child who was previously looked after but immediately after being looked after became subject to an adoption, residence or special guardianship order. A looked after child is a child who is (a) in the care of a local authority, or (b) being provided with accommodation by a local authority in the exercise of their social services functions (see the definition in Section 22 (1) of the Children Act 1989). 3. Students whose siblings currently attend The City Academy, Hackney and will continue to do so on the date of admission. 4. Up to nine students resident in the City of London, if more than nine students apply, selection to be determined by drawing lots. 5. Children of staff employed at the academy, where a member of staff has been employed for two or more years at the time at which the application is being made, and/or the member of staff is recruited to fill a vacant post for which there is a demonstrable skills shortage.
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A LEVEL COURSE GUIDE
LINEAR A LEVEL PATHWAYS
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All A-Level subjects are now linear. On BTEC courses, examinations can take place in January and May/June in both Year 12 and Year 13. Our blocks are designed to cater for the following pathways: Business Creative STEM Medicine, Dentistry & Veterinary sciences Social sciences Linguistics
OPTION BLOCKS When filling in your application form, please select three subjects. You cannot select more than one subject from a block. In exceptional circumstances, we allow students to take 4 A-Levels. Please indicate this on your application form. BLOCK A BTEC Business* Business Studies Chemistry Computing Geography History Maths Music Psychology
BLOCK B BTEC Business* Biology Chemistry Further Maths Maths Music Technology Psychology Sociology Spanish
BLOCK C Biology BTEC ICT Drama & Theatre Economics English Literature French P.E Physics Religious Studies
*BTEC Business is equivalent to 2 A-Levels.
BLOCK D Art and Design Economics English Literature Geography History Maths Physics Politics Textiles 3D Design
ART & DESIGN Students will study the Fine Art component of the OCR Art & Design course, engaging in integrated critical, practical and theoretical study. This course is designed to encourage students to develop their skills, creativity, imagination and independence based on personal experience, taught skills and critical understanding. Students show this through their responses to a range of stimuli. The aims and learning outcomes for these qualifications are to enable learners to develop: intellectual, imaginative, creative and intuitive capabilities; investigative, analytical, experimental and practical skills; independence of mind in developing and communicating their own ideas, working with a broad range of media. EXAM BOARD / SYLLABUS OCR H601 ENTRY REQUIREMENTS A minimum grade 6 at GCSE in an artrelated subject.
BIOLOGY The course develops the scientific skills and concepts learned during GCSE science. Students will learn essential biological principles and look at the contribution of biology to modern society. A level biology consists of eight topics such as biological molecules, cells, organisms and genetics. Students will develop their practical skills through extensive laboratory work. A level grades will be based entirely on examination, with a separate endorsement of practical skills taken alongside the A level. A level biology is a valuable and highly regarded qualification complemented by A level chemistry, and provides access to a wide range of further qualifications. EXAM BOARD / SYLLABUS AQA 7402 ENTRY REQUIREMENTS 7, 7 in combined science OR 7 in biology and 6 in chemistry and physics. In addition, students need to achieve at least grade 6 in GCSE maths.
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BUSINESS STUDIES
BTEC BUSINESS
Business Studies is an exciting and dynamic subject that examines how businesses operate and compete in an ever-changing environment. It looks at the internal operations of a firm, from marketing to finance, managing human resources, to the production of goods and services. It also addresses external influences such as the role of interest rates and inflation.
This programme may include other BTEC Nationals or A levels to support progression to higher education courses in business before entering employment.
A level Business Studies offers a wide range of possible career and higher education opportunities, in particular, the fields of accountancy, marketing and human resources. University subjects such as Economics, Law and Management are also areas that are common for Business Studies students to study. EXAM BOARD / SYLLABUS Edexcel 9BS0 ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Grade 6 in GCSE maths, plus a 6 grade in GCSE Business or a Merit in BTEC Business, if studied.
The additional qualification(s) studied allow learners either to give breadth to their study programme by choosing a contrasting subject, or to give it more focus by choosing a complementary subject. This qualification can also be used to progress to Russell Group universities and Higher Apprenticeships. This course is equivalent in size to two A Levels. There are 8 units of which 6 are mandatory and 3 are external. Mandatory content (83%) External assessment (45%). Students will study 4 units in Year 12 and 4 units in Year 13. Exams can be taken in both January and May/June.
EXAM BOARD / SYLLABUS Edexcel 601/7157/1 ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Pass or above in BTEC Business Level 2.
BTEC ICT
CHEMISTRY
This qualification is designed for learners who are interested in an introduction to the study of creating IT systems to manage and share information. It can be studied alongside other subjects, with a view to progressing to a wide range of higher education courses, not necessarily in IT.
The course develops the scientific skills and concepts learned during GCSE science. Throughout the course students learn essential chemical principles and consider the contribution of chemistry in modern society. A level chemistry encompasses topics such as bonding, kinetics, periodicity, the Halogens and organic analysis. Students develop practical skills through extensive laboratory work, assessment of which will be through examination, with a separate endorsement of practical skills taken alongside the A level.
The course is split into 4 units: Learners will study three mandatory units: Unit 1: Information Technology Systems Unit 2: Creating Systems to Manage Information Unit 3: Using Social Media in Business. (Mandatory content - 83%; external assessment - 58%). This qualification also includes a choice of optional units, including Data Modelling or Website development. This will allow progression to a variety of degrees when combined with other suitable Level 3 qualifications. EXAM BOARD / SYLLABUS Edexcel 9BS0 ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Grade 5 in GCSE maths, plus a pass or above in an ICT related level 2 qualification.
A level chemistry is a valuable and highly regarded qualification, complemented by A level physics, biology and maths, and provides access to a wide range of further qualifications. EXAM BOARD / SYLLABUS AQA 7405 ENTRY REQUIREMENTS 7, 7 in combined science OR 7 in chemistry and 6 in biology and physics. In addition, students need to achieve at least grade 7 in GCSE maths.
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COMPUTER SCIENCE
DRAMA & THEATRE
The course is split between programming and theory. The programming side looks at solving problems using Python as the chosen programming language. Students will learn structured programming and a systematic approach to problem solving using computational thinking. The theory side looks at the fundamentals of data representation, computer systems, computer architecture, networking and communication as well as the consequences of uses of computing.
Drama & Theatre will provide students with the techniques to create and explore outstanding drama. Students are expected to carry out independent research and study on theatre organisations, and practitioners in the global arena.
There are two examinations, which are equally weighted. The programming exam tests students’ knowledge of programming with a computer-based examination whilst the theory exam is a paper-based exam. EXAM BOARD / SYLLABUS AQA 7517 ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Grade 7 in GCSE maths and 6 in GCSE Computer Science, if studied.
This course will enable students to apply for academic study at university or practical drama at drama school. The performing arts are a varied and diverse industry. Careers in education, public relations, arts administration, communications, hospitality, and journalism are grounded in the transferable and interpersonal skills gained from studying Drama & Theatre. The City Academy drama department has strong links with the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, Barbican Centre and Donmar Warehouse. This gives students the opportunity to experience theatre and the creative industries in a professional context EXAM BOARD / SYLLABUS EdExcel 9DRO ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Grade 6 in drama and grade 6 in English. It is not necessary to have studied GCSE Drama if the student has a grade 6 or above in English and can evidence recent experience as a performer, director or designer.
ECONOMICS This course will enable students to develop an understanding of economic concepts and theories through a critical consideration of current economic issues, problems and institutions that affect everyday life. The aim of the course is to develop enquiring and critical thought, enabling candidates to appreciate the contribution of economics to the wider social environment. A level Economics is a highly respected academic subject, regarded as such by both Oxbridge and Russell Group universities. Studying Economics will provide a solid platform for students to progress into a wide range of degrees such as Law, Politics, Economics, History and business-related subjects. EXAM BOARD / SYLLABUS EdExcel 9ECO ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Grade 6 in English and maths.
ENGLISH LITERATURE English Literature covers a broad range of engaging texts from across history – you will study The Handmaid’s Tale, a chilling 21st Century exploration of the relationship between science and society, alongside a dramatic Shakespearean tragedy. We have been sure to include an exciting range of authors from Mary Shelley to Tennessee Williams. Studying English Literature at A level invites students to access challenging texts from new perspectives and consider a variety of interpretations in interactive lessons and independent study. This course offers the space to explore core texts in depth and consider their place in the complex web of literature. EXAM BOARD / SYLLABUS Edexcel 9ET0 ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Grade 5 in English Language and grade 6 in English Literature
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FRENCH The French A level course lasts for two years. As part of the programme students will get a broad understanding of contemporary social, political and cultural aspects of Francophone societies through the study of a variety of authentic texts, books, films and multi-media resources. Although students will be assessed regularly, the final French A level exams will take place at the end of the second year and will consist of three papers covering all four skills (listening, speaking, reading and writing). As part of the programme, our French students will also have a unique opportunity to carry out a week of work experience in France to further strengthen their speaking skills and deepen their cultural understanding. EXAM BOARD / SYLLABUS Edexcel 9FR0 ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Grade 7 in GCSE French
GEOGRAPHY Geography A-Level is an exciting and current course which incorporates and encourages links with political and economic thinking. Geography is well suited to those who have a naturally inquisitive mind and want to understand contemporary issues facing our world and what is being done to address them. The course is split into 4 sections: Paper 1, Physical Geography: 30%, includes tectonics, landscape systems, and water and energy security. Paper 2, Human Geography: 30%, - includes globalisation, changing places, and superpowers and global development. Paper 3: 20%, - a booklet is used to support your answers on issues which require you to make synoptic links across topics. Controlled assessment: you will be required to write a report based on fieldwork you undertake on a 2 day residential in year 12. EXAM BOARD / SYLLABUS Edexcel 9GEO ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Grade 6 in GCSE geography and grade 6 in English.
HISTORY History A level is split between several units including Tsarist and Communist Russia 1855-1964: Change and Consolidation; Wars and Welfare: Britain in Transition, 1906–1957 and Interpretations of the Witch Hunts in Early Modern Europe. Whilst experiencing a broad course of study, students will develop the ability to ask relevant and significant questions about the past and improve as effective and independent learners with curious and enquiring minds. History A level is highly valued by Russell Group and Oxbridge universities. Typical careers which can follow studying history are as follows: banking and accountancy, television and radio broadcasting, publishing, management consultancy, law, retail, national and local government and the public services, particularly the civil service. EXAM BOARD / SYLLABUS AQA 7042 ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Grade 6 in GCSE history and grade 6 in English.
MATHS Mathematics is the study of quantity, structure, space, and change and mathematicians seek out patterns and formulate new conjectures. It is the language of the sciences and plays a fundamental, often unseen, role, in many aspects of modern life – from understanding air and space travel, to ensuring the security of credit card details on the internet. In the first year, you will study differential calculus, algebra, sequences and series, wave functions and coordinate geometry in the Pure Maths module. All students then study Statistics and Mechanics. This will build on the foundations of studies in your first year and include numerical methods, infinite binomial series, trigonometric functions and differential equations in the Pure Maths. All students then continue with more advanced statistical modelling and hypothesis testing, and more Mechanics moving from simple 1D and 2D problems to more realistic 3D models. EXAM BOARD / SYLLABUS Edexcel 9MA0 ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Grade 7 in GCSE maths.
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FURTHER MATHS Further Mathematics will give you the chance to explore further the power of mathematics for a range of situations. This extends to more sophisticated statistical tools to analyse data, more refined mechanical models of real life situations or exploring algorithms to solve sorting, matching and optimisation with decision mathematics. In the first year of studies, you extend your understanding of Pure Maths with more calculus, coordinate geometry and matrices and complex numbers. All students then choose one module from Statistics, Mechanics, Decision Maths or more Further Pure. You will then build on the foundations of the first year, extending your problem solving skills in Pure Maths and two option modules from Statistics, Mechanics, Decision Maths or more Further Pure. This option would be particularly good for students wanting to go on to study Mathematics, Physics or Engineering at university. EXAM BOARD / SYLLABUS Edexcel 9FM0 ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Grade 8 in GCSE maths. Students must also choose to study A level maths.
MUSIC A level music will develop your solo and ensemble performing skills, your ability to compose in different styles and your appreciation and understanding of a variety of music. The course will extend the knowledge and skills developed in Key Stage 4 and will provide an excellent basis for lifelong learning and higher education courses in music. The course is made up of 30% performing coursework, 30% composing coursework and a one hour, 30 minute listening exam (40%) based on a variety of set works. EXAM BOARD / SYLLABUS Eduqas 601/8146/1 ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Grade 6 in GCSE music and the ability to perform on an instrument or voice to at least grade 4 standard.
MUSIC TECHNOLOGY This course covers the development of popular music and technology throughout the 1900s to present day. Knowledge of music theory as well as music technology is essential. Unit 1 and Unit 3 both require the completion of a portfolio of work including sequencing, multitracking and composition, attached to a logbook. Unit 2 - Listening and Analysing - explores music genres, theory and the use of technology. Unit 4 - Analysing and Producing - is a practical exam paper using editing, producing and mastering techniques. EXAM BOARD / SYLLABUS Edexcel 9MT01 ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Grade 6 in GCSE music.
PE A level PE allows students to acquire an in-depth holistic understanding of physical activity and sport that gives students an ability to critically evaluate key concepts thus enabling them to be informed and discerning decisionmakers in relation to theirs and others’ involvement in physical activity. The course has three main theory strands: Physiological factors affecting performance (30%), Psychological factors affecting performance (20%) and Socio-cultural issues in physical activity and sport (20%). There is also a practical component comprised of an observation and analysis piece of coursework (15%) and a practical assessment in one sport (15%). Future studies within the area include: Sport and Exercise Science, Sports Psychology and Physiotherapy. Future careers can include PE teaching, Physiotherapy, Sports Coaching and further study at university level. EXAM BOARD / SYLLABUS OCR H555 ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Grade 6 in GCSE PE or Grade 7 in Biology.
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PHYSICS
POLITICS
A level Physics develops the scientific skills and concepts learned during GCSE science and an understanding of how the world works through the formulation of theories and laws.
The course is designed to encourage interest in, and enthusiasm for, the way politics works in this country and beyond, which helps students understand the modern world.
The course is split into nine topics, including particles and radiation, mechanics, electricity and nuclear physics. Students develop practical skills through extensive laboratory work, assessment of which will be through examination, with a separate endorsement of practical skills taken alongside the A level.
Students will engage in contemporary political debates throughout the course on topics such as migration, EU membership and reforming the electoral system. Students will then develop this knowledge and study political ideologies such as conservatism and liberalism and global politics. Through this, students will come to understand the role of the state and the relationships that exist between states.
A level Physics is a valuable and highly regarded qualification, complemented by A level maths and chemistry and provides access to a large range of further qualifications. EXAM BOARD / SYLLABUS AQA 7408
Students will engage in regular discussions on a range of topics such as conflict and terrorism, humanitarian intervention and poverty. Politics is a highly regarded A level subject and complements the other humanities subjects very well. A wide range of exciting careers await Political Science graduates, such as journalism, finance and working in government itself.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS 7, 7 in combined science OR 7 in physics and 6 in chemistry and biology. Students EXAM BOARD / SYLLABUS must also have achieved grade 7 in GCSE Edexcel 9PL0 maths and be studying A level maths. ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Grade 6 in GCSE history or geography and grade 6 in English.
PHILOSOPHY PSYCHOLOGY & ETHICS A level Psychology develops knowledge, understanding and critical evaluation of theories and studies to do with cognitive, behavioural, developmental and biological psychology. It focuses on issues such as memory, social behaviour, physiological responses and psychological research methods. Students learn more about critical issues related to the mind, behaviour and thinking styles by exploring physiological and psychological explanations on issues such as relationships, schizophrenia and aggression. EXAM BOARD / SYLLABUS AQA 7182 ENTRY REQUIREMENTS 6, 6 grades in combined science or grade 6 in Separate Science biology. Students will also need a grade 6 in English and a 6 in humanities subject.
This course is based around big philosophical questions and ethical problems at an advanced level. Students also study Christianity as the religious component of the course. In the first year of study, students have the chance to investigate ethical issues in detail, philosophical questions concerning the existence of God and an examination of biblical interpretations, preparing them for the level of academic rigour demanded at degree level. In the second year of study, students delve deeper into the subjects introduced in the first year developing their analytical skills. A wide variety of industries favour Philosophy, Ethics and Religious Studies majors for the analytical skills it develops. Graduates in these areas can enjoy careers in media, finance, marketing, education and law to name a few. EXAM BOARD / SYLLABUS OCR H573 ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Grade 6 in a GCSE humanities subject and grade 6 in English.
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SOCIOLOGY
SPANISH
Sociology is the exploration of social issues by investigating trends and patterns within our everyday lives and then analysing theories that help to explain and solve these problems. We investigate the sociology of education, families and households, crime and deviance, beliefs and religion and the range of research methods that are used to study groups within society.
The Spanish A level course lasts for two years. As part of the programme students will get a broad understanding of contemporary social, political and cultural aspects of Hispanic societies through the study of a variety of authentic texts, books, films and multi-media resources. Although students will be assessed regularly, the final Spanish A level exams will take place at the end of the second year and will consist of three papers covering all four skills (listening, speaking, reading and writing).
It is a thought provoking subject that requires you to keep up to date with current affairs and apply a range of different readings to well-structured and evaluative essays. Careers such as journalism, advertising and marketing, policing and law, teaching and social work are all jobs that sociology facilitates. EXAM BOARD / SYLLABUS AQA ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Grade 6 in a GCSE humanities subject and grade 6 in English.
As part of the programme, our Spanish students will also have a unique opportunity to carry out a week of work experience in Spain to further strengthen their speaking skills and deepen their cultural understanding. EXAM BOARD / SYLLABUS Edexcel 9SPO ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Grade 7 in GCSE Spanish.
TEXTILES
3D DESIGN
Textiles is a creative, exciting and fast moving course that covers a wide range of textile techniques. Areas of study can include: fashion textiles, interior textiles, and decorative textiles, among many other possibilities. Students work towards two units of work each year, both of which are learner-led.
3D Design provides students with an opportunity to explore three dimensional forms in exciting and creative ways while also allowing students to apply creativity to practical and functional 3D products. We also offer a Graphic Communication route with a main focus upon graphical outcomes.
A level Textiles can lead to a variety of degree courses including Art, Fine Art, Textiles, Fashion, Interior Design. It can also lead to careers in fashion design, costume design, teaching, curating, retail, buying and merchandising among other opportunities.
During the course you will get the chance to use exciting machinery and technology such as our laser cutter and CNC machine.
EXAM BOARD / SYLLABUS AQA 7201 ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Grade 6 or above in GCSE textiles or art.
Final outcomes can be represented in any three dimension form including: jewellery, ceramic sculpture, architecture, design for theatre, television and film, set design and product design. Career opportunities include: architecture, engineering, graphic design, product design, furniture design, set design and jewellery. EXAM BOARD / SYLLABUS AQA 7201 ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Grade 6 in either GCSE Resistant Materials, art, textiles, graphics or product design.
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Visit us online at: www.thecityacademy.org
Please refer to our website where you will find a wide range of supporting material and useful information including: •
an up-to-date events calendar including Open Evenings, Open Mornings, admissions and appeals deadlines
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news of individual student achievements, whole-school successes, photos and videos from recent events, trips, concerts and sports fixtures
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a link to the school performance tables and the academy’s full Ofsted report, graded ‘Outstanding’ in all categories in January 2012
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our SEN information report detailing the academy’s provision for students with special educational or disability needs.
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The City Academy, Hackney, Homerton Row, London, E9 6EA 020 8525 5440 post16@thecityacademy.org www.thecityacademy.org Principal: Mark Malcolm
The City Academy, Hackney is sponsored by KPMG and the City of London Corporation. The City Academy, Hackney is a registered charitable company. Registered office: The City Academy, Hackney, Homerton Row,