A-Level Options Brochure_2024

Introduction

Contents

and Dr Hazell can assist you in understanding the requirements for different pathways. When thinking about possible subjects, it may be helpful to find out the answers to questions such as: • What opportunities does studying the subject open up? • Howmuch reading is involved? • Is there a practical element that you will really enjoy? • How often will you be preparing essays? • What is the balance between coursework (NEA) and final examinations? We hope that you will find some of the answers in the pages that follow.

for four A-levels, there will be an opportunity in October to review your progress and discontinue one course, if this is what you decide. For progression to some elite courses at some universities, it may be advantageous to gain four strong A-level grades. In each case, the Sixth Form Team will work closely with you to make sure your pathway is appropriate and secure. Pupils also take the Extended Project Qualification, which carries the same weight as half an A-level, and provides excellent preparation for the research and presentation skills needed for successful higher-level study. Choosing subjects We do not prescribe the combination of subjects you should take at A-level but we do have the experience to recommend an appropriate course based on your strengths, interests and aspirations. In addition to the subjects you have studied at (I)GCSE, you may be interested in the new subjects of Classical Civilisation, Economics, Politics and Psychology. Whatever combination you choose, providing we know your choices before the deadline in February, we shall endeavour to construct the timetable to accommodate them. It may be helpful to select one subject that contrasts with the others to demonstrate your breadth of study, unless your university aspirations are firm and the entry requirements for that course are more prescriptive. Choosing your A-level subjects is exciting as it gives you the opportunity to specialise and start to define your future path. Take time to think carefully and discuss your ideas with teachers, friends and family. Thoughts of future careers should be a consideration and Mr Robinson

Entry Requirements To begin our Sixth Form programme you need to have achieved at least 59 points from your nine best (I)GCSEs. The following tariff explains the points system: Grade - Points awarded

The move to Sixth Form is an exciting one. As part of the progression to A-level study, there are many decisions to be made, particularly when it comes to the curriculum. For the first time, you will choose the subjects you study. This is thrilling but we recognise that the process can also be daunting. Therefore, we have prepared this booklet to outline the A-level courses available to our Sixth Formers. Do not worry if you are not sure what you want to do after Sixth Form. Our bespoke ‘Foundations’ program ensures you will get access to the support and guidance you need to help you choose the Higher Education path that is right for you. Sixth Form is a hugely exciting time and we feel confident that you will choose a combination of subjects that you enjoy. Over the next fewmonths, there will be opportunities to discuss potential pathways. We are on hand to give you guidance, as are your tutors, Mr Greenwood and Mr Robinson. We hope that you enjoy finding out about some of the possibilities that the Sixth Form has to offer.

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Introduction

Latin

Art, Craft and Design

Mandarin Chinese

9 - 8 points 8 - 8 points 7 - 7 points 6 - 6 points 5 - 5 points 4 - 4 points 3 - 3 points

Biology

Mathematics

Chemistry

Music

10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30

Classical Civilisation Computer Science Drama and Theatre Studies

Physics Politics

Psychology

There are also subject requirements which must be met for entry to each A-level course. Details can be found on the subject pages later in this booklet.

Religious Studies

Economics

Spanish

English Literature Extended Project

The Sixth Form Curriculum We know that it can be a difficult decision to narrow down your studies to just three or four subjects, particularly when some of the options are new to you. For the next two years, you will want to focus on the subjects that you will find really engaging, and that will give you the best possible grades at the end. You may start the Sixth Form by studying three or four A-levels. It is important to think carefully about your choices in terms of the demands that they create; we want you to be successful from the start. The conditional offers set by UK universities typically require three A-level subjects. If you start the Sixth Form studying

French

Further Mathematics

Geography

German

History

Rachael Hemmings Director of Sixth Form

Zoe Jarvis Deputy Head (Academic)

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