SSV A Level and BTEC Curriculum

A Levels are UK qualifications, recognised around the world with three full A Levels being generally considered a full programme of study for university entry. They are academic qualifications in individual subjects and are based on the idea of studying fewer subjects in greater depth. A Levels are either:

• a two year, linear courses. This means that your final grade is determined by the exams (and in some cases coursework) taken at the end of the two year A Level Programme in Year 13. These exams cover all the content and skills taught in both Year 12 and Year 13.
• or an International A Level. This means that you take external exams for some modules at the end of Year 12 and the rest of the modules as external exams at the end of Year 13.

Check carefully under each subject to see which type of A Level each subject is.

Passing grades available for A Levels are A*, A, B, C, D, and E. One of the considerations of specialising in a smaller number of subjects is that you are expected to do a significant amount of independent learning (wider reading, research, review and consolidation) and, as a result you will have study time in school.

This UK qualification involves students undertaking an extended individual project, completed in Year 12, or at the beginning of Year 13. It offers excellent preparation for university life and will significantly support university applications. It carries UCAS (UK university application) points. These are calculated to be worth 50% of a full A level. Grades available are A*, A, B, C, D, and E.

These are UK qualifications, completed at the end of Year 12 after one year of study. It carries UCAS (UK university application) points. These are calculated to be worth approximately 40% of a full A level. These are available as part of the A Levels Pathway and may be right for you if you are considering applying for certain university courses. Grades available are A, B, C, D, and E (Note: there is no A* available). 

These UK-based international qualifications are set at the same standard as A levels. They are professional and career-related qualifications and are continually assessed via coursework and practical projects. Some units are assessed under controlled conditions. They are not dependent on final examinations at the end of the course. They suit students who are better at working continuously rather than sitting final exams. Your work can be graded as Distinction*, Distinction, Merit and Pass.

While they are widely accepted, please check that university courses you are considering applying for will accept them. You can study these qualifications in conjunction with A Levels or the IBCP. (information can be found in the IB Curriculum booklet). Please see the Sixth Form Pastoral Team for advice if you are interested in these options.

Examination Board

AQA Art and Design A Level (Fine Art)

Eduqas AS Level Art and Design is also available as part of the A Levels Pathway.

What will I study?

Full A Level course

The Personal Investigation starts with a series of two workshops to introduce the subject at this level. This allows all students to access the course, even if they have not studied Art & Design at GCSE.

We study Botanic Forms for inspiration visiting Hortus Botanicus in Leiden, focusing on drawing skills. Next, we study more expressive and personal ways of working, experimenting with differing materials and processes. Students go on to complete a Personal Investigation where they are able to explore a topic of their choice.

Topics can fall under a range of disciplines within Art & Design including,

• Fine Art – drawing, painting, printmaking and sculpture
• Graphic Design and Illustration
• Fashion and Textiles
• 3D Design – Architecture, Ceramics, and Products
• Animation- 2D and 3D
• Photography and Film

One Year AS Level course

Our AS Level course comprises one component, Personal Creative Enquiry. We follow workshops alongside our full A Level course and complete a full project of work by the end of the year. There is no externally set assignment. During study on our courses, we offer a residential study visit. In recent years, this has been to Dusseldorf in Germany. The trip forms part of classroom studies, building on studio practice and theory, understanding the work of others, and developing their own concepts.

Both courses are very open to give students the opportunity to work to both professional and creative standards, as well as being able to produce work that is very personal, experimental and imaginative. We have had students who have taken ideas into many different areas of study. The courses are accessible for all abilities and levels.

How will I be assessed?

A Level

• Component One - Personal Investigation (60%)
• Component Two – Externally Set Assignment (40%)

Both are non-examination assessed.

AS Level

• Component One – Personal Creative Enquiry (100%) This is a non-examined assessment.

Where will this course lead me?

The subject provides access to learning at A Level in a practical-based course, leading to a high level qualification. The course allows students to explore Art, Craft and Design in the widest sense possible. It allows them to find a very personalised approach to build expertise in their chosen area. As a result it builds a strong portfolio to support applications to Art & Design-based undergraduate study.

Students have gone on to study in a wide variety of subjects, such as Graphic Design and Illustration, Architecture, Film Production, Fine Art, Fashion, Product Design, and related professions in the Creative Industries. Other students have used the course to develop generic-based skills for the workplace such as creative thinking, innovation, problem solving and emotional intelligence. Our subject offers these as a natural part of the processes used in the qualification.

Who should I ask for more information?

Mr Rogerson

Head of Art

Examination Board

Edexcel International

AS Level Biology is also available as part of the A Levels Pathway.

How will I be assessed?

AS Modules

• Unit 1: Molecules, Diet, Transport and Health
• Unit 2: Cells, Development, Biodiversity and Conservation
• Unit 3: Practical Skills in Biology I

A2 Modules

• Unit 4: Energy, Environment, Microbiology and Immunity
• Unit 5: Respiration, Internal Environment, Coordination and Gene Technology
• Unit 6: Practical Skills in Biology II

A student taking the full A Level will study all six units. A student taking the AS will only take the three AS modules.

Where will this course lead me?

Many students take the course as it provides a stepping stone into any field relating to Medicine, Biological Sciences, Sport and Food Science, Environmental Science and Biotechnology. There is more information on the Royal Society of Biology’s website: www.rsb.org.uk/students

Who should I ask for more information?

Ms van Doninck

Head of Biology

Examination Board

Edexcel International

AS Level Business is also available as part of the A Levels Pathway.

How will I be assessed?

The assessment consists of three examinations.

• Unit 1: Marketing and people - This examination consists of short and extended response questions based on different sources. It also includes one essay question based on one or more sources.(50% or the IAS and 25% of IAL).
• Unit 2: Managing business activities – This examination assesses Unit 2 and takes the same format as Unit 1. (50% or the IAS and 25% of IAL).
• Unit 3: Business decisions and strategy – This examination consists of short and extended response questions, based on different sources. It also includes two essay question, based on one or more sources. (50% or the IA2 and 25% of IAL).
• Unit 4: Global business - this examination assesses content from Unit 4 and takes the same format as Unit 3. (50% or the IA2 and 25% of IAL).

Where will this course lead me?

There is a vast array of Business or Management or Economics courses at University and these can also be combined with other subjects such as languages / politics, although many specialise in their preferred field such as IT, Marketing or Finance.

Who should I ask for more information?

Miss Kay

Head of Economics and Business

Examination board

Pearson BTEC International Level 3 Diploma in Business

What will I study?

During the two-year course students will study a variety of Business topics. There are five compulsory units that all students must study, which include investigation on the Business Environment, Marketing, Finance, Event Management and Business Decision Making.

Students will also complete four additional units which cover a range of topics such as team building in business, career planning, digital marketing and pitching a business. While studying the BTEC Business units, students will develop essential employability skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, communication, self management and resilience.

In total, Diploma students will need to complete nine units. We aim to work closely with a range of businesses to support the content of these units, and over the past few years we have enjoyed collaborations with a range of organisations, including Dopper, Netflix and local businesses

How will I be assessed?

BTEC courses are based on continuous assessment rather than the traditional external examination style of assessment. There are no final exams, however some assessments are to be completed under controlled conditions. These assessments vary from written assignments to presentations and practical activities. All assignments receive a summative grade of Pass, Merit or Distinction, which are then collated into an overall grade for the qualification at the end of the course.

Where will this course lead me?

Widely recognised within the Higher Education system across many countries, there is a vast array of Business courses supporting further study. Business is often combined with other subjects, such as Languages and Sport, presenting an ideal foundation for business careers. Alternatively, students may choose to follow a different career path in areas such as Law, Accountancy, Hospitality or Sports Management. It is important to investigate the specific requirements of the intended destination and programme of study.

In recent years, the destinations for our graduating BTEC students have included, for example, The Hague University of Applied Sciences, Dublin Institute, Swansea University, Exeter University, University of East Anglia, Amsterdam Fashion Institute, Rotterdam Business School.

Who should I ask for more information?

Miss Kay

Head of Economics and Business

Examination Board

Edexcel International

AS Level Chemistry is also available as part of the A Levels Pathway.

How will I be assessed?

AS Modules

• Unit 1: Structure, Bonding and Introduction to Organic Chemistry
• Unit 2: Energetics, Group Chemistry, Halogenoalkanes and Alcohols
• Unit 3: Practical Skills in Chemistry

A2 Modules

• Unit 4: Rates, Equilibria and Further Organic Chemistry
• Unit 5: Transition Metals and Organic Nitrogen Chemistry
• Unit 6: Practical Skills in Chemistry II

A student taking the full A Level will study all six units. A student taking the AS will only take the three AS modules.

Where will this course lead me?

Whilst many job opportunities specifically using Chemistry require higher qualifications, most laboratory-based jobs benefit from a Chemistry qualification, for instance dental assistant or veterinary assistant. Many employers view success at A Level Chemistry as a clear indication of sound academic ability. Examples of Chemistry-related areas of employment include: Medicine, Dentistry, Forensic Science and Toxicology, Pharmacology, and Chemical Engineering.

Who should I ask for more information?

Mr Whittell

Head of Chemistry

Examination Board

Cambridge International

AS Level Computer Science is also available as part of the A Levels Pathway.

How will I be assessed?

The assessment comprises four components. Two assessments at AS and a further two at A-Level.

AS Assessments – Taken in Year 12

• Paper 1 – Theory Fundamentals: Written examination (1hr 30) – assesses sections 1 to 8 of the syllabus content. (50% of the AS level, 25% of the A Level)
• Paper 2 – Fundamentals Problem-solving and Programming Skills: Written examination (2hrs )– assesses sections 9 to 12 of the syllabus content. Candidates will need to write answers in pseudocode. (50% of the AS level, 25% of the A Level.)

A Level Assessment – Taken in Year 13

• Paper 3 – Advanced Theory: Written examination (1hr 30) – Paper 3 assesses sections 13 to 20 of the syllabus content. (25% of the A Level)
• Paper 4 – Practical: Onscreen programming exam– Paper 4 will assess sections 19 and 20 of the syllabus content and requires candidates to submit complete program code and evidence of testing. Students will code in Python during this assessment. (25% of the A Level)

Where will this course lead me?

Computer Science is a versatile subject with a range of future pathways from cyber security, engineering, telecommunications, content development, system analysis, software engineering, web development, business analysis, game development, forensic computer analysis and more.

This course will equip you with a range of practical and theoretical skills essential for future success including:

• Programming skills in a modern language
• An in-depth understanding of how computers and networks work
• Practical problem-solving and computational thinking skills

Computer Science continues to be an area of substantial growth leading the way in world-changing fields such as artificial intelligence, nanotechnology, robotics, medicine, big data, transportation, quantum computing and more. Yet there continues to be a shortage of people with the necessary key skills to meet demand. As a result, Computer Science graduates with up-to-date knowledge can expect to be able to choose from a large selection of jobs all around the world.

Who should I ask for more information?

Mrs Nethercote

Head of Computer Science

Examination Board

Pearson BTEC International Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Creative Media

How will I be assessed?

BTEC courses are based on continuous assessment rather than the traditional external examination style of assessment. Therefore, there are no final examinations. Students are assessed continuously via written and practical assignments and obtain a summative grade of Pass, Merit, or Distinction per assignment. There will also be assessment under controlled conditions during the course. This grading is then collated into an overall grade for the qualification at the end of the course.

Where will this course lead me?

BTEC Creative Media at this level provides an opportunity to study the wide and varied aspects of the media industry. It provides an opportunity for those who have an interest in media to explore, develop and test their creativity within a qualification structure which is stimulating and demanding, and provides a supportive transition from general to more specialised study.

This course is for students with a creative imagination, commitment and a drive to succeed in a challenging industry. This qualification, alongside A levels, may lead to a programme of further study in Creative Media. While Pearson BTEC International Level qualifications are widely accepted, particularly at UK universities, it is important that you investigate whether they will be accepted to particular universities and courses which interest you.

Who should I ask for more information?

Ms Hindmarsh

Teacher of Creative Media

Mr Stuurman

Teacher of Creative Media

Examination Board

Cambridge International Design & Technology 9705

AS Level Design and Technology is also available as part of the A Levels Pathway.

How will I be assessed?

The Cambridge International course consists of the following topics and is broken into AS and A-level content:

AS Content:

• The design process
• Design principles
• Communication
• Design and technology in society
• Sustainable design
• Health and safety
• Aesthetics and ergonomics
• Materials and components
• Stages in materials processing
• Materials processing
• Energy and control systems Technology

A Level Content:

• Industrial practices
• Business and commercial practices Quantity
• production Materials processing in industry
• Quality systems
• Digital technology

Where will this course lead me?

Product Design is a versatile course that can lead to a variety of creative and technical careers; some of which include Industrial Designer, Furniture Designer, Quality Assurance, Engineering (Mechanical, Civil Structural), Architecture, Computer Aided Designer, Computer Aided Manufacturing, Sustainable technologies, Graphic Designer, Set Designer and Interior Designer.

Who should I ask for more information?

Mr Gent

Head of Design and Technology

Examination Board

Eduqas

How will I be assessed?

The three components of the course are assessed either internally, externally moderated or by a visiting examiner. There is a balance of written assessment and practical performance assessment.

• Component 1 – Theatre Workshop. This is internally assessed and externally moderated (20%).
• Component 2 – Text in Action. This is assessed by a visiting examiner (40%).
• Component 3 – Text in Performance. This is a written examination (40%).

Where will this course lead me?

Further studies of Drama and Theatre or any courses or careers that involve strong team work, presentations skills or arts-based subjects such as Law, Journalism, Media Studies, History, Politics, Philosophy and languages.

Who should I ask for more information?

Ms Ball

Head of Drama

Examination Board

CNaVT

Certificaat Nederlands als Vreemde Taal (KU Leuven).

We will be preparing students for this qualification at B2 level. It is called Educatief Bekwaam (Educationally competent). This is widely accepted in Belgium and The Netherlands for entry onto Dutch-taught University and Higher Vocational Education (HBO) courses.

How will I be assessed?

The CNaVT assesses the four different skills (Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing in Dutch) separately by final examination. The CNaVT exams will be held on two separate days during the first two weeks in May, held at the Senior School in Voorschoten. Unlike many of our other programmes, the students will be required to enter their own data on the CNaVT website in order to register for the exam. The school will guide them through this process.

Where will this course lead me?

The exam will suport entry to courses taught in Dutch at university level and Higher Vocational Level (HBO). On the CNaVT website is an extensive list of the institutions which accept the qualification. www.cnavt.org

Who should I ask for more information?

Mr Dekker

Head of Dutch

Examination Board

Edexcel International

AS Level Economics is also available as part of the A Levels Pathway.

How will I be assessed?

Students sit three external examinations at the end of year 13. These are made up of a combination of short questions, data response questions and essays.

• Unit 1       Markets in action (50% of IAS and 25% of IAL)
• Unit 2       Macroeconomic performance and policy (50% of IAS and 25% of IAL)
• Unit 3       Business behaviour (50% of IA2 and 25% of IAL)
• Unit 4       Developments in the global economy (50% of IA2 and 25% of IAL)

Where will this course lead me?

Economics is a broad subject that helps students develop their writing, research and critical thinking skills which can lead to a very wide variety of courses and careers.

Who should I ask for more information?

Ms Sainte-Croix

Head of Modern Foreign Languages Head of French

Examination Board

Pearson EdExcel International

How will I be assessed?

There are four components to the assessment.

Two written examinations are taken at the end of year 12 and two written examinations are taken at the end of year 13.

Each examination is open book.

• Paper 1 – Post 2000 poetry and prose. 25%
• Paper 2 – Drama. 25%
• Paper 3 – Poetry and prose. 25%
• Paper 4 – Shakespeare and pre-1900 poetry. 25%

Where will this course lead me?

English Literature in the Sixth Form develops the following skills that make you an attractive potential university student:

• Excellent communication skills – both written and oral.
• The ability to express your own ideas and opinions.
• The ability to analyse and construct a persuasive argument.

The study of English Literature will complement any future studies in the Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences and Law faculties at University.

Who should I ask for more information?

Mrs Monk

Head of English

Examination Board

AQA

What will I study?

You will have around 30–40 hours of lessons on the skills needed to successfully complete an EPQ. In addition, you will be assigned a supervisor who will help you to select an appropriate research question and help you to manage the research and writing process.

You must demonstrate / provide evidence of a minimum of 90 hours of independent work.

How will I be assessed?

The EPQ is not available as a full A Level. It is worth half an A Level and is graded using the A Levels grade range (A*–U). Students are assessed entirely by coursework – the final report, records of the research process and a final presentation of the findings to your fellow students. The assessment of the project is focused on both the learning process and the product.

Where will this course lead me?

This qualification supports the development of research, project management and presentation skills relevant to a wide range of university courses and careers. Successfully undertaking an EPQ considerably improves your skills in time management, academic writing, referencing, and critical analysis, amongst others. For this reason, the EPQ is valued by universities and some may include it as part of an offer made to a student. Even if not included in formal offers, taking an EPQ can be viewed favourably by universities. You can talk about it in your application and at interview to demonstrate interest and aptitude for your chosen degree course.

Who should I ask for more information?

Mrs English

EPQ Coordinator

Examination Board

Edexcel International

AS level French is also available as part of the A levels Pathway.

How will I be assessed?

Pupils will sit two papers at the end of Year 12 and another two at the end of Year 13.

Paper 1: Speaking (8-10 minutes)

• 30% of the final mark for AS
• 15% of the final mark for A level
• The candidate will comment on a photo card and have discussions with their teachers on two chosen themes.

Paper 2: Listening, Reading, Writing (2h30)

• 70% of final mark for AS
• 35% of final mark for A level
• The candidate will self-manage the recording to answer a variety of questions. The reading will assess their comprehension skill as well as their grammar. In the writing, the candidate will need to respond to an open prompt.

Paper 3: Speaking (11-13 minutes)

• 30% of the final mark
• 15% of the final mark if the pupil has taken the AS in Year 12
• The first part is a debate around a topic chosen by the candidate, it is then followed by a discussion on two further issues chosen by the examiner.

Paper 4: Research, understanding and written response (2h30)

• 70% of the final mark
• 35% of the final mark if the pupil has taken the AS in Year 12
• The listening and reading tasks are similar to paper 2.
• The writing is an essay on the research project led in class.

Where will this course lead me?

Languages can open doors for the future. Possible degree courses and future careers when students have an AS or A Level in French are diverse and languages are regarded by universities as demanding subjects at A Level. French is frequently studied in combination with another subject as a Joint Honours degree course (for example, Law with French, Engineering with French, Business Studies or Economics with French, European Union Studies with French), or students may wish to choose a pure language, translation or interpreting qualification. French A Level can also only be of benefit for any future career linked with travel, communications or with a global aspect.

Who should I ask for more information?

Ms Sainte-Croix

Head of Modern Foreign Languages Head of French

Examination Board

Edexcel

What will I study?

The use of technology permeates the study of A Level Mathematics. Calculators used must include the following features:

• an iterative function
• the ability to compute summary statistics

Graphing calculators such as the TI Nspire* (NONCAS) have the required features. The recommended non graphing calculator is the Casio FX-991EX.

*The CAS version of the Nspire is not allowed in the examination.

Examination Board

Pearson Edexcel International

AS Level Geography is also available as part of the A Levels Pathway.

What will I study?

Component 1: Physical Geography

• Section A: Water and carbon cycles
• Section B: Coastal systems and landscapes
• Section C: Hazards

Component 2: Human Geography

• Section A: Global systems and global governance
• Section B: Changing places
• Section C: Population and the environment

Component 3: Geographical Investigation

Students complete an individual fieldwork investigation that must include data collected in the field, based on skills developed on the compulsory residential fieldtrip (not included in school fees). The individual investigation will be approximately 3,500 words and based on a question or issue defined and developed by the student relating to any part of the specification content covered in component 1 or 2.

How will I be assessed?

There are 3 components. The examinations comprise multiple-choice, short answer, levels of response and extended prose question types.

• Paper 1 – Physical Geography. (40%)
• Paper 2 – Human Geography. (40%)
• Geographical Investigation – Non-Examined Assessment. (20%)

Where will this course lead me?

The study of Geography prepares the student for further studies in the subject and the many other related areas. It also develops very important transferable skills such as critical analysis, synthesis, decision making, investigation, fieldwork and report writing, and develops international understanding, fostering a keen awareness of, and concern for, key global issues. Students studying Geography will be well equipped to move into an extensive range of higher education courses. Geography is well regarded by British Universities, and most also accept it as a science for application purposes.

Who should I ask for more information?

Mr Carter

Head of Geography

Examination Board

Edexcel International

AS level German is also available as part of the A levels Pathway.

How will I be assessed?

Pupils will sit two papers at the end of Year 12 and another two at the end of Year 13.

Paper 1: Speaking (8-10 minutes)

• 30% of the final mark for AS
• 15% of the final mark for A level
• The candidate will comment on a photo card and have discussions with their teachers on two chosen themes.

Paper 2: Listening, Reading, Writing (2h30)

• 70% of final mark for AS
• 35% of final mark for A level
• The candidate will self-manage the recording to answer a variety of questions. The reading will assess their comprehension skill as well as their grammar. In the writing, the candidate will need to respond to an open prompt.

Paper 3: Speaking (11-13 minutes)

• 30% of the final mark
• 15% of the final mark if the pupil has taken the AS in Year 12
• The first part is a debate around a topic chosen by the candidate, it is then followed by a discussion on two further issues chosen by the examiner.

Paper 4: Research, understanding and written response (2h30)

• 70% of the final mark
• 35% of the final mark if the pupil has taken the AS in Year 12
• The listening and reading tasks are similar to paper 2. The writing is an essay on the research project led in class.

Where will this course lead me?

Languages can open doors for the future. Possible degree courses and future careers when students have an AS or A Level in German are diverse and languages are regarded by universities as demanding subjects at A Level. German is frequently studied in combination with another subject as a Joint Honours degree course (for example, Politics with German, Engineering with German, Business Studies or Economics with German, European Union Studies with German) or students may wish to choose a pure language, translation or interpreting qualification.

With the world becoming global, the demand for professionals who can communicate bilingually or multi-lingually is growing. A German IA Level can also be of benefit for any future career linked with travel, communications or with a global aspect.

Who should I ask for more information?

Mr Swanson

Interim Head of German

Examination Board

Edexcel International

AS Level History is also available as part of the A Levels Pathway.

Examination Board

Pearson BTEC International Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Hospitality

The one year Hospitality BTEC certificate (equivalent to an AS level studied in Y12) can be taken as the PLUS part of the A Level Pathway.

What will I study?

BTEC Hospitality enables learners to develop a range of skills and techniques essential for successful performance in working life. This course is designed to cover all the essential elements of the Hospitality Industry. Principles of food preparation and the study of the Hospitality Industry are a composite part of this course.

Year 12 Units of Study – Asian Food, European Food, The Hospitality Industry

Year 13 Units of Study – The Cuisine of your own country, Customer Service and The Environment

The content of Unit 1 The Hospitality Industry has direct relevance to students interested in studying Business at A level or IBCP.

How will I be assessed?

BTEC courses are assessed on an assignment basis rather than the traditional external terminal examination style of assessment. Students are assessed via written and practical assignments and obtain a summative grade of Pass, Merit, or Distinction per assignment. There will also be an assessment under controlled conditions during the course. This grading is then collated into an overall grade for the qualification at the end of the course.

Where will this course lead me?

This qualification can lead to further studies in both Hospitality Management and Food Science and Nutrition. A Food Science degree can lead to careers in food marketing or as a food technologist teacher, dietitian or journalist. Food-based courses are available in a selection of UK universities.

Students planning to complete practical/coursework- based subjects will find this course of great value. The use of ICT is an extensive part of completing the assignment work.

While BTEC qualifications are widely accepted, particularly at UK universities, it is important that you investigate whether they will be accepted at particular universities and courses which interest you.

Who should I ask for more information?

Mrs Moore

Head of Food Technology

Examination Board

Edexcel

AS Level Mathematics is also available as part of the A Levels Pathway.

What will I study?

The use of technology permeates the study of A Level Mathematics. Calculators used must include the following features:

• an iterative function
• the ability to compute summary Statistics

Statistics Graphing calculators such as the TINspire* (NON CAS) have the required features. The recommended non graphing calculator is the Casio FX-991EX.

*The CAS version of the Nspire is not allowed in the examination.

How will I be assessed?

The Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE in Mathematics consists of three externally-examined papers, taken at the end of Year 13.

• Paper 1 – Pure Mathematics. (33.3%)
• Paper 2 – Pure Mathematics. (33.3%)
• Paper 3 – Mechanics and Statistics. (33.3%)

Where will this course lead me?

This challenging course is an important and popular subject which develops reasoning and problem- solving skills. As well as being a respected discipline in its own rights, it is also the backbone for many Science, Engineering, Computing, Economics and other related degrees. There are a wide range of University courses that contain a mathematical element.

Who should I ask for more information?

Mr McGee

Head of Mathematics

Examination Board

Cambridge International

AS Level Music is also available as part of the A levels pathway.

What will I study?

In Year 12, learners focus on listening, composing and performing. For listening, they study set works. These are chosen to support learners in developing their listening skills and understanding of music, including compositional techniques and performance practice. They learn to work with Western notation. Learners also listen to and explore other music of their choice and identify and learn to communicate connections across a wide variety of music. Learners are also encouraged to build on their own personal musical interests as they study composing and performing. Through this, they learn to develop their own range of compositions and performance programme.

In Year 13, learners choose two areas of interest from composing, performing and investigating music. Learners have the opportunity to develop their musical knowledge, skills and understanding and to communicate these through music and academic writing of more depth. Throughout the course, learners are encouraged to analyse and evaluate and to present work which is underpinned by practical and theoretical understanding. By learning to listen attentively and with purpose, to create and perform, and present understanding of music through academic writing, learners are developing transferable skills. These will help equip them for higher education or employment.

How will I be assessed?

All candidates take:

Component 1: Listening

There are three sections in the Listening paper:

• A: Compositional Techniques and Performance Practice
• B: Understanding Music
• C: Connecting Music

This is externally assessed and is worth 60% of the AS Level or 30% of the A Level

Component 2: Practical Music

There are two compulsory elements: performing and composing. Candidates must complete:

• A: 6–10 minute performance.
• B: Two contrasting compositions, 1–2 minutes each Internally assessed and externally moderated.

This paper is worth 40% of the AS Level and 20% of the A Level

A Level students take two of either:

Component 3: Extended Performance

There are two parts to Extended Performance:

• A 15–20 minute performance
• A 1000–1500-word research report

This is externally assessed and is worth 25% of the A Level

Component 4: Extended Composition

There are two parts to Extended Composition:

• A 6–8 minute composition
• A 1000–1500-word research report

This is externally assessed and is worth 25% of the A Level

Component 5: Investigating Music

There are two parts to Investigating Music:

• A 2500–3000-word essay
• An up to 500-word reflective statement

This is externally assessed and is worth 25% of the A Level

Where will this course lead me?

The course provides a sound foundation for music courses in higher education. Employment possibilities include the music industry, teaching and other related careers. Universities look favourably on students who have studied Music as one of their A Levels. The self-discipline needed to undertake systematic personal musical skills practice and the developing of creative skills in composing and arranging make a Music student’s skill set highly desirable to universities looking to recruit students onto a wide range of subject courses.

Who should I ask for more information?

Mr Keech

Head of Music

Examination Board

AQA A level

Eduqas AS Level Physical Education is also available as part of the A Levels Pathway.

What will I study?

The subject content is divided into three units.

1. Factors affecting participation in physical activity and sport: applied anatomy and physiology, skill acquisition, sport and society.
2. Factors affecting optimal performance in physical activity and sport: Exercise physiology and biomechanics, sport psychology, sport and society and technology in sport.
3. Practical performance in physical activity and sport: Students are assessed in one or two roles, either as a performer or coach in one activity. Written or verbal analysis and evaluation of performance.

How will I be assessed?

There are three final A Level assessments.

• Unit 1 – written paper (35%)
• Unit 2 – written paper (35%)
• Unit 3 – Internally assessed/external moderated Practical (30%)

Where will this course lead me?

Students can go on to study a number of sports related degrees, These include: Sport Science, Sports Management, Sports Technology, Sports Psychology, and Sports Coaching. Students studying Physical Education can also go on to study for other degrees including disciplines such as Medicine, Physiotherapy, Chiropractics, and Occupational Therapy.

Who should I ask for more information?

Dr Dormehl

Deputy Head of Physical Education

Mr Archer

Head of Physical Education

Examination Board

Edexcel International

AS Level Physics is also available as part of the A Levels Pathway.

How will I be assessed?

AS Modules

• Unit 1: Mechanics and Materials
• Unit 2: Waves and Electricity
• Unit 3: Practical Skills in Physics I

A2 Modules

• Unit 4: Further Mechanics, Fields and Particles
• Unit 5: Thermodynamics, Radiation, Oscillations and Cosmology
• Unit 6: Practical Skills in Physics II

A student taking the full A Level will study all six units. A student taking the AS will only take the three AS modules.

Where will this course lead me?

With an A Level in Physics, there is no closed door. The Institute of Physics have shown data that suggests A Level Physics is the second most sought after A Level for universities (after mathematics). This is because it will allow you to demonstrate practical skills, problem solving skills, mathematical skills and communication skills. Common next phases are degrees in: Physics, Engineering, Mathematics, Medicine, Architecture and the other sciences.

Who should I ask for more information?

Mr van Setten

Head of Physics

Examination Board

Edexcel A Level Politics

AS Level Politics is also available as part of the A Levels Pathway.

How will I be assessed?

There are 3 examinations. They require you to write essay-style answers. The majority of questions can be selected.

• Paper 1 – UK Politics. (33.3%)
• Paper 2 – UK Government. (33.3%)
• Paper 3 – Comparative Politics. (33.3%)

AS Level

Component 1: UK Politics Component 2: UK Government

Each component has an exam of 1 hour 45 minutes, worth 60 marks and makes up 50% of the overall AS

Where will this course lead me?

Students of A-Level can take a wide variety of university courses which involve the ability to to analyse, construct, substantiate and communicate an argument, for example, International Relations, History, Law and Politics. Government and Politics can be useful preparation for a range of careers including in Journalism and the Civil Service.

Who should I ask for more information?

Mrs Archer

Head of History and Politics

Examination Board

Oxford International AQA

What will I study?

The Options content requires you to study three topics selected from: Relationships, Gender, Cognition and Development, Schizophrenia, Eating behaviour, Stress, Aggression, Forensic Psychology and Addiction. This unit contributes 33.3% of the total A Level marks.

How will I be assessed?

There are three final A Level examination papers, each of which is 2 hours duration. They will consist of structured questions based on Social Influence, Memory, Attachment and Psychopathology, Approaches in Psychology, Biopsychology, Research methods and Issues and Options in Psychology.

• Paper 1: Introductory Topics in Psychology (33.3%)
• Paper 2: Psychology in Context (33.3%)
• Paper 3: Issues and Options in Psychology (33.3%)

Where will this course lead me?

Psychology has links with a broad range of university courses and careers. It is regarded as a Humanities subject or a Social Science depending on the type of university course. Psychology has links to a huge variety of university programmes, including Sport, Business, Theatre, Politics, Biology, Medicine, Education and, of course, Psychology itself.

Who should I ask for more information?

Mrs Napper

Head of Psychology

Examination Board

Edexcel International

AS level Spanish is also available as part of the A levels Pathway.

How will I be assessed?

Pupils will sit two papers at the end of Year 12 and another two at the end of Year 13.

Paper 1: Speaking (8-10 minutes)

• 30% of the final mark for AS
• 15% of the final mark for A level
• The candidate will comment on a photo card and have discussions with their teachers on two chosen themes.

Paper 2: Listening, Reading, Writing (2h30)

• 70% of final mark for AS
• 35% of final mark for A level
• The candidate will self-manage the recording to answer a variety of questions. The reading will assess their comprehension skill as well as their grammar. In the writing, the candidate will need to respond to an open prompt.

Paper 3: Speaking (11-13 minutes)

• 30% of the final mark
• 15% of the final mark if the pupil has taken the AS in Year 12
• The first part is a debate around a topic chosen by the candidate, it is then followed by a discussion on two further issues chosen by the examiner.

Paper 4: Research, understanding and written response (2h30)

• 70% of the final mark
• 35% of the final mark if the pupil has taken the AS in Year 12
• The listening and reading tasks are similar to paper 2. The writing is an essay on the research project led in class.

Where will this course lead me?

Languages can open doors for the future. Possible degree courses and future careers when students have an AS or A Level in Spanish are diverse and languages are regarded by universities as demanding subjects at A Level. Spanish is frequently studied in combination with another subject as a Joint Honours degree course (for example, Law with Spanish, Engineering with Spanish, Business Studies or Economics with Spanish, European Union Studies with Spanish), or students may wish to choose a pure language, translation or interpreting qualification.

The UK in particular is suffering from an acute shortage of linguists and as the world is becoming global, the demand for professionals who can communicate bilingually or multi-lingually is growing. Over 400 million people across the globe speak Spanish as a first language. A Spanish A Level can only be of benefit for any future career linked with travel, communications or with a global aspect.

Who should I ask for more information?

Mrs Bou Soler

Head of Spanish