The Course

• A level Art and Design builds on the skills and knowledge students have developed in previous years.
• The course has been designed to encourage all learners to develop independence based around personal experiences and critical thinking.
• It provides an opportunity for learners to take a personal interest in why art and design really matters.

Assessment

This is a practical portfolio with supporting contextual research in which the learner is expected to develop a personal response based on their chosen theme.

Learners are required to establish a written response to any related study that supports their chosen practical portfolio.

The exam paper will be given to learners on the 1st of February. They then have a minimum of 6 weeks to prepare prior to a 15 hr practical exam.

Entry Requirements

• GCSE grade 6 or above

Future Destinations

• Higher education and benefit to careers
• Designers of the future
• Creative art courses

The Course

Biology is a fascinating subject, the study of which will see you learn about the natural world and all the living things within it.

Gaining an A level in this subject opens up a vast range of opportunities for both university degrees and career options, many of which can take you all around the world.

Biology covers a broad range of topics and has aspects to interest a wide range of students. Biology is a pre-requisite subject for many degrees in Biological Science and Medical related fields of study.

The main units we study in this course are: Practical Skills, Foundations in Biology, Exchange and
Transport, Biodiversity Evolution and Disease , Communication, Homeostasis and Energy, Genetics, Evolution and Ecosystems

Assessment

A level Biology is only available as a linear course, which means that 100% of the assessment will take place at the end of the course.

Progression tests at the end of year 12 and mocks are used to assess and support progress during the course and there are 12 core practical experiments.

3 final exams cover all topics over the 2 years.

10% of the marks will be related to mathematical skills.

A focus on practical work in one of the papers.

Literacy will be assessed in long answer questions.

Entry Requirements

• Grade 6 in Biology or Combined Science (Higher tier)
• Grade 5 in GCSE Maths (Higher tier)
• Students need to be prepared to work hard and to be organised, independent, resourceful and willing to persevere when encountering difficulty

Future Destinations

Medical professions, Pharmacy, Physiotherapy, Biomedical engineering, Research science (life
sciences), Microbiology, Marine biology, Conservation, and ecology, Environmental management, Food science, Agricultural engineering, Zoology.

The transferable skills developed would also be useful in a diverse range of careers including: law, business analysis, psychology (Biology is a requirement for some Psychology degrees)

The Course

This qualification engages students by presenting chemical ideas and practical skills in a variety of contexts, relating modern-day applications of chemistry and current research to the concepts needed for the study of chemistry at A level.

The units we teach are: Elements of Life, Developing Fuels, Elements of the Sea, The Ozone Story, What’s in a Medicine?, The Chemical Industry, Developing Metals, Polymers and Life, Oceans and Colour by Design.

Assessment

A level Chemistry is only available as a linear course, which means that 100% of the assessment will take place at the end of the course.

Progression tests at the end of year 12 and mocks are used to assess and support progress during the course and there are 12 core practical experiments.

3 final exams cover all topics over the 2 years.

20% of the marks will be related to mathematical skills.

A focus on practical work in one of the papers.

Literacy will be assessed in long answer questions.

Entry Requirements

• Grade 6 in Chemistry or Combined Science (Higher tier)
• Grade 5 in GCSE Maths (Higher tier)
• Students need to be prepared to work hard and to be organised, independent, resourceful and willing to persevere when encountering difficulty.

Future Destinations

Drug design, Veterinary sciences, Volcanology, Charity sectors, Professions allied to medicine,
Physiology, Meteorology, Nursing, Nuclear engineer, Genetics, Toxicologist, Midwifery, Science writer, Radiology, Forensics. Chemistry is also widely regarded as a fantastic A level to have and so supports careers in other fields such as International relations, Law and Accountancy.

The Course

This Computer Science qualification focuses on computational thinking, helping students to develop the skills to solve problems, design systems and understand the power and limitations of human and machine intelligence: these are the concepts that lie at the heart of our Computer Science qualification. This qualification will best prepare students who want to go on to study Computer Science at a higher level and will also provide a good grounding for other subject areas that require computational thinking and analytical skills.

Assessment

• Paper 1: Computing Principles: 2 hrs 30 mins, 40% of final grade
• Paper 2: Algorithms and Problem Solving: 2 hrs 30 mins, 40% of final grade
• Programming project – students’ choice, 20% of final grade

Entry Requirements

• A grade 4 or above in GCSE Computer Science

Future Destinations

Computer Science is highly valued in many careers that require problem-solving and analytical and computational thinking. This qualification enables students to develop the skills to solve problems and design systems whilst understanding the power and limitations of human and machine intelligence.

Computer Science can be studied at university on its own or with various other subjects. The skills developed in Computer Science are used in almost every job or area of life but lend themselves specifically to games and software development, engineering and IT-based analysis and forensics.

The Course

• Technical Principles;
  • Both practical and theoretical study of a range of materials. Exploring content from computer-aided design to smart materials.
•  Designing and Making Principles
  • Design methods, their influences as part of the iterative design cycle.

Assessment

Paper 1:

What’s assessed

• Technical principles
• Designing and making principles
• Specialist knowledge

How it’s assessed

• Written exam: 2 hrs
• 100 marks
• 25% of A level

Questions

Mixture of short answer, multiple choice and extended response questions

Paper 2:

What's assessed

• Technical principles
• Designing and making principles
• Specialist knowledge

How it’s assessed

• Written exam: 2 hrs
• 100 marks
• 25% of A level

Questions

Section A: Product analysis

• 40 marks available
• Up to six short answer questions based on visual stimulus of product(s)

Section B: Commercial manufacture

• 60 marks
• Two extended response questions worth a total of 30 marks each

Entry Requirements

• GCSE grade 5 and above

Future Destinations

Animator
Carpenter
Fashion
Computing
Photography
Media
Illustration
Prosthetics
Theatre set design
Project manager
Architect
Engineer
Graphics

The Course

This specification is designed to foster learners’ independence as they explore English Language in a variety of contexts. It provides learners with opportunities to develop a wide and deep knowledge of the systems of the English language and of issues relating to language and its uses. Throughout this course, learners are presented with opportunities to develop their own creativity, both in the ways they think about language and in the ways they develop expertise in using language to communicate in different ways. In a world where artificial intelligence is becoming more dominant, understanding the importance of and mastering the skill of human communication is more vital than ever.

Students are able to select AS Language as a one-year course, and are advised to speak with the course leader to discuss this.

Assessment

• Component One: Language Concepts and Issues. 2 hrs exam worth 30% of the qualification.
• Component Two: Language Change Over Time. 2 hrs 15 mins exam worth 30% of the qualification.
• Component Three: Creative and Critical Use of Language. 1 hrs 45 mins exam worth 20% of the qualification.
• NEA – Component Four: Language and Identity – A 2500 - 3500 word investigation on one of the following topics: language and self-representation; language and gender; language and culture; or language diversity.
• This NEA is worth 20% of the qualification.

Entry Requirements

• GCSE in English Language at a grade 5 or higher

Future Destinations

This course develops the skills required to write dissertations at a university standard and students will learn Harvard referencing, which will support any university application.

Career opportunities: Advertising copywriter; Social Media Executive; Web Content Manager;
Corporate Communications; Speech Writer; Publishing Executive; Public Relations; Grant Writer;
Novelist and Journalist.

The Course

The A level Literature course really enhances a love of reading as we discuss a range of engaging and thought-provoking texts. Whether it's debating if Othello remains as a hero or if Dracula is really the being we fear, students who take this A level explore a rich and diverse range of literature. Learners are able to establish their own perspectives and arguments on the texts that we study and enjoy lively debates around the questions that these texts pose. Students consider the contexts in which the texts were published and what the wider world of literary critics have to say on them. Our students go out into the world, empowered by their literary skills and their love of a good book.

Students are able to select AS Literature as a one-year course, and are advised to speak with the course leader to discuss this.

Assessment

Component 1: Drama paper exploring two plays, worth 30% of the qualification. 2 hrs 15 mins.
Component 2: Prose paper exploring two novels, worth 20% of the qualification. 1 hr 15 mins.
Component 3: Poetry paper exploring Modern and Romantic poetry, worth 30% of the qualification. 2 hrs 15 mins.

NEA: Exploring two literary texts in detail, focusing on personal interest, worth 20% of the qualification.

Entry Requirements

• GCSE grade 5 in English Literature
• A love of reading

Future Destinations

• A level Literature gives students a strong foundation for writing dissertations at university level, equips them with the ability to read and research widely, and enables them to use Havard referencing.
• Career opportunities: Editor, Publisher, Novelist, Journalist, Teacher, Marketing and Public Relations, Bookseller, Lexicographer, Librarian, Paralegal, Social Media Manager, Education Consultant, Advertising Copywriter, Content Manager.

The Course

The French A level course is an in-depth and varied approach to studying the French language and cultural aspects of various French-speaking countries. Topics you will be learning about are everyday life in francophone countries, society, music and cinema, art, technological development, or politics – all in French, which will allow and require you to enhance your language skills to perfection.

Additionally, we will be encountering at least one piece of French literature and a French film in detail, and we will learn how to interpret these in an essay which forms part of your assessment.

There are thought-provoking topics for heated French discussions and debates and for you to develop a passion and very specific interests while continuing to learn a foreign language to a very high standard. You will be asked to explore one of your favourite subject matters thoroughly in your individual research project towards the end of the course.

The French A level course widens your cultural horizon and allows you to develop a French view of our everyday world and prepares you well for studying French at university level or to go abroad to study, work or even live.

Assessment

Paper 1: listening comprehension / reading comprehension / writing (summary, translation); 2h
30 mins, 50% of the total mark

Paper 2: writing – essay; 2 hrs, 20% of total mark

Speaking exam: Discussion of sub-theme through stimulus card and questions / IRP – (individual research project), presentation and follow-up discussion; 21-23 mins, 30% total mark

Entry Requirements

• GCSE Higher, ideally a grade 6-9

Future Destinations

• Studying languages at university level
• Basis for interpreting and translation courses
• Potential to study abroad
• Gap year or living abroad to enhance your cultural horizon further
• Travelling confidently
• Business and industry job roles that require high language proficiency

The Course

Further Mathematics is designed for students with an enthusiasm for mathematics, many of whom will go on to degrees in mathematics, engineering, the sciences and economics.

The qualification is both deeper and broader than A level mathematics. AS and A level further
mathematics build from GCSE level, AS and A level mathematics. As well as building on algebra and calculus introduced in A level mathematics, the A level further mathematics core content introduces complex numbers and matrices, fundamental mathematical ideas with wide applications in mathematics, engineering, physical sciences and computing. The non-core content includes different options that can enable students to specialise in areas of mathematics that are particularly relevant to their interests and future aspirations. A level further mathematics prepares students for further study and employment in highly mathematical disciplines that require knowledge and understanding of sophisticated mathematical ideas and techniques.

Assessment

3 x 2 hr assessment papers

Entry Requirements

• Grade 7 or above in GCSE Mathematics

Future Destinations

Studying A level Further Mathematics is excellent preparation for a degree in Mathematics. Many university maths departments encourage students to take Further Mathematics at A level as it introduces a wider range of pure and applied content, such as matrices and complex numbers. Students who have studied Further Mathematics often find the transition to university far more straightforward.

Around a third of Mathematics BSc degree courses mention Further Mathematics in their entry requirements, including it in their A level offers or encouraging students to take it if possible. For the Russell Group universities, this proportion is much higher.

The Course

We believe that geography is the most important and empowering subject, and endeavour to inspire awe and wonder in our students while fostering a deep understanding of both local and global geography. Through our curriculum, we aim to empower students to recognise the possibilities of their choices, underpinned by core concepts of space, place, time, and geographical skills. Our aim is to provide an ambitious and equitable experience for our learners, to fill the cultural deficit, to improve life chances and to provide social justice. We equip students with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to navigate an interconnected world with empathy and resilience, cultivating well-rounded and well-informed global citizens.

Assessment

Paper 1: Physical systems - 1 hr 30 mins - 22%
Paper 2: Human interactions – 1 hr 30 mins - 22%
Paper 3: Geographical debates - 2 hrs 30 mins - 36%
Independent investigation – NEA - 20%

Entry Requirements

• GCSE grade 6

Future Destinations

Studying Geography equips you with a diverse set of transferable skills valuable for both the future and the workplace. These include research and data collection, analysis and evaluation, as well as mathematical and computational abilities. You’ll also develop IT skills, proficiency in written and oral communication, and problem-solving capabilities. The field fosters creative thinking, the ability to work both independently and collaboratively, and skills in incorporating ideas and reaching consensus. Additionally, it enhances self-motivation, self-reliance, time management, and the ability to meet deadlines.

The Course

The German A level course is an in-depth and varied approach to studying the German language and cultural aspects of various German-speaking countries. Topics you will be learning about are everyday life in German-speaking countries, society, music and cinema, art, technological development, or politics – all in German, which will allow and require you to enhance your language skills to perfection.

Additionally, we will be encountering at least one piece of German literature and a German film in detail, and we will learn how to interpret these in an essay which forms part of your assessment. There are thought-provoking topics for heated German discussions and debates and for you to develop a passion and very specific interests while continuing to learn a foreign language to a very high standard. You will be asked to explore one of your favourite subject matters thoroughly in your individual research project towards the end of the course.

The German A level course widens your cultural horizon and allows you to develop a German view of our everyday world and prepares you well for studying German at university level or to go abroad to study, work or even live.

Assessment

Paper 1: listening comprehension / reading comprehension / writing (summary, translation ); 2 hrs 30 mins, 50% of total mark

Paper 2: writing – essay; 2 hrs, 20% of total mark

Speaking exam: Discussion of sub-theme through stimulus card and questions / IRP – (individual research project), presentation and follow-up discussion; 21-23 mins, 30% total mark

Entry Requirements

• GCSE Higher, ideally a grade 6-9

Future Destinations

• Studying languages at university level
• Basis for interpreting and translation courses
• Potential to study abroad
• Gap year or living abroad to enhance your cultural horizon further
• Rravelling confidently
• Business and industry job roles that require high language-proficiency

The Course

The aim of studying History at A level is to develop a unique perspective on the world by studying its relatively recent past. Across the 2-year course, you will cover aspects of political, social, and economic history. You will study in depth the key changes in Britain since 1945 (Option 2S) whilst the breadth paper covers Tsarist and Communist Russia from 1855 to 1964 (Option 1H). You will also write a personal study utilising your historical skills based on the topic ‘America: A disunited Nation’. There is a focus throughout the course on student involvement through debate and discussion as well as independent study.

By the end of your course, you will have learnt how to communicate complex ideas effectively, to evaluate evidence and interpretations, to analyse information, together with weighing up information.

Assessment

• There are two examinations taken at the end of Year 13:
• Paper 1: Tsarist and Communist Russia (option 1H). You will analyse 3 extracts and write 2 essays in the 2 hrs 30 mins. (40%)
• Paper 2: The Making of Modern Britain (option 2S). You will analyse 3 sources and write 2 essays in the 2 hrs 30 mins. (40%)
• The NEA is an independent study on the topic ‘America: A divided Nation, 1776 – 1896’ worth 20%

Entry Requirements

• Normally, students will have gained a grade 5 or above at GCSE History.
• Students who have not studied GCSE History may be considered, but will normally need a grade 6 or above in English.

Future Destinations

The study of History can be continued at university or used to support the study of other subjects such as Law, Journalism and Politics.

The study of A level History develops a range of skills supporting further education or employment. These skills include the ability to research and evaluate evidence, analyse and present an argument, analyse and evaluate data and critical thinking.

The Course

Choosing A level Maths is a smart step for students who want to challenge themselves academically and keep their future options open. It’s a versatile and highly respected qualification that supports a wide range of university courses, from science and engineering to economics, psychology, and even architecture. By studying A level Maths, students build essential problem-solving, logical reasoning, and analytical skills that are crucial in today’s data-driven world. Employers in fields such as finance, tech, and engineering actively seek candidates with strong mathematical backgrounds because these skills are directly applicable to real-world challenges. Additionally, A level Maths helps students develop resilience and the ability to approach complex problems with confidence, setting them apart in competitive academic and career environments. Whether you’re aiming for a career in STEM or looking to enhance your general employability, A level Maths provides a strong foundation for future success, equipping you with skills that are in constant demand.

Entry Requirements

• Grade 6 or above at GCSE Mathematics

Assessment

• Paper 1: Pure Maths 1
• Paper 2: Pure Maths 2
• Paper 3: Statistics & Mechanics combined

Future Destinations

Studying A level Maths offers significant advantages for higher education and careers, particularly for students interested in pursuing degrees in mathematics, engineering, physics, computer science, and economics at prestigious universities. It deepens understanding of advanced mathematical concepts, preparing students for rigorous university courses. A level Maths is highly regarded by competitive institutions, providing an edge in applications for STEM-related degrees.

Career-wise, it opens doors to roles in data science, engineering, finance, and research, where strong mathematical skills are essential. The analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities gained from A level Maths also enhance employability in diverse and high-paying fields.

The Course

We will equip you with the skills to deconstruct media texts (music videos, TV programmes, adverts, posters, magazines and newspapers) and identify what these tell us about the world. This matters because we live in a ‘media age’, spending a significant proportion of our lives online, watching films & TV, reading, listening to music and playing video games. We depend on the media to entertain, connect, and inform us. Media producers hold a significant amount of power; however, is this power used responsibly? You will explore important issues – such as stereotyping, patriarchy, colonialism and political bias. You will also develop your creative skills by producing your own media texts – print, web and audio-visual. Over the course, you will analyse a range of media – including adverts, television programmes, newspapers, magazines, computer games, music videos and websites, considering issues such as representation, ideological bias, and social/historical context.

Assessment

• Component 1: Exam (2 hrs 15 mins) – 90 marks
• Component 2: Exam (2 hrs 30 mins) – 90 marks
• Component 3: Non-Exam Assessment – 60 marks (A practical component, requiring you to design your own media texts)

Entry Requirements

• GCSE grade 4 or above in English

Future Destinations

You can further your studies at university, for example, with courses in Media, Film, Communications, Cultural Studies, Graphic Design, Marketing or Public Relations. This course also provides you with useful knowledge and skills for careers in advertising & marketing, graphic design or media production (film, television, radio).

The Course

Philosophy is thinking about life’s big questions. It’s about being an intellectual detective. If you’ve ever wondered how we know what’s real, where ideas of right and wrong come from and where we are going, then you’ve already started the journey. This is the next step, where you have the opportunity to engage with significant concepts in a non-religious context. A level Philosophy will help you develop these skills:

• Being clear and precise in your thinking and writing
• Engaging with complex texts and ideas
• Constructing and defending your own philosophical arguments
• Analysing and evaluating the arguments of yourself and others

Assessment

You will study theories of knowledge (how do we know, we know anything), moral philosophy (ideas of right and wrong), and whether God exists, what it could be like, and what we mean by our “mind” – can it all be explained by studying what the brain does?

Assessment is through 2 x 3 hr exams at the end of Year 13; there’s no coursework.

Entry Requirements

• Grade 6 or above in English

Future Destinations

Philosophy can be studied on its own at degree level, and some degrees include Philosophy modules as part of the course. Philosophy is also a useful A level to have when studying Law, Sociology, Politics, Social Policy and Criminology.

Philosophy is highly valued in many careers, particularly medicine, government and charity. In fact, philosophical skills can help in all jobs and are used in almost every area of life.

The Course

Pearson Edexcel A level Physics:

Physics is the study of the nature and properties of matter and energy, and the interactions between them.

There are many fields of physics, including: mechanics, electricity, thermodynamics, sound, light, matter, materials, atomic physics, nuclear physics, particle physics, cosmology and astronomy.

Assessment

A level Physics is only available as a linear course, which means that 100% of the assessment will take place at the end of the course.

Progression tests at the end of year 12 and mocks are used to assess and support progress during the course and there are 16 core practical experiments.

Three final exams cover all topics over the 2 years. 40% of the marks will be related to mathematical skills.

A focus on practical work in one of the papers.

Literacy will be assessed in long answer questions.

Entry Requirements

• Grade 6 in Physics or Combined Science (Higher tier)
• Grade 6 in GCSE Maths (Higher tier)
• Students need to be prepared to work hard and to be organised, independent, resourceful and willing to persevere when encountering difficulty.

Future Destinations

Physics, Astronomy and space science, Civil Engineering, Mathematics, Geology, Biophysics, Medical Physics, Medicine, Nanotechnology, Nuclear technology, Nuclear Medicine, Armed Forces, Teaching, Aeronautics, Pilot/aviation, Veterinary Science, Meteorology, Gaming and software design, Forensic Science, Communications, Renewable energy development, Materials design and testing, Business and Accountancy, Sound engineering.

The Course

Politics is unlike any other A Level subject because it is so current. Politics is NOW. Politics is ALIVE! It is about how our society is shaped and organised and allows you to form your own opinions about topics that affect us all. What you study at A Level Politics will stay relevant for the rest of your life.

During the course you will be focusing on current affairs as you study both UK politics and the UK political system, as well as the US political system and study a range of contrasting political ideologies. The course will support you in developing an enquiring and critical approach to current affairs as well as building confidence in discussion, debate and critical writing as you analyse key ideas as well as present your own opinions and judgements.

Assessment

There are three examination papers that you will sit at the end of Year 13

• Paper 1: UK People and Politics. Topics cover UK Political Parties, UK Pressure Groups, UK Democracy and Participation and UK election systems. Ideologies cover Liberalism, Conservatism and Socialism. You will analyse a source of political commentary and will produce extended essay responses.
• Paper 2: UK Government. Topics cover the UK Constitution, Parliament, the UK Executive and relations between UK ‘branches’ of government including the UK Supreme Court. You will look at one additional ideology: Feminism. The exam paper will follow the same format of analysing a source of political commentary and extended essay responses.
• Paper 3: US Politics. Topics cover US Democracy and Participation, US parties and Pressure Groups, Presidential elections, the US Constitution, Congress, US Presidents and the US Supreme Court. In the exam you will produce extended essay responses looking at US political systems and topics, but also synoptic responses comparing the US and UK systems.

Entry Requirements

There are no prior subject study requirements. However, students need to have attained a grade 5 or more in English Language or English Literature. It is recommended, but not required, that students have a grade 5 or more in a linked analytical subject like History or Geography or RS.

Future Destinations

Politics is highly valued in many careers, including the Police, Armed Forces, Education, Health, Law and anything else the Government makes decisions about, which is almost anything! Politics can be studied at university on its own or with various other subjects. The skills developed in Politics are used in almost every job or area of life.

If you have studied Politics A Level you have demonstrated your ability to assimilate a wide range of information, to analyse and weigh up arguments and to construct clear coherent lines of reasoning. These are skills that are valued across professions and show that you, as an individual, are a citizen of the world!

The Course

Are you fascinated by the workings of the human mind and behaviour? AQA A level Psychology offers an exciting journey into understanding why people think, feel, and act the way they do. This course dives deep into topics such as memory, social influence, mental health, and human development, providing you with valuable insights into everyday life and human interactions.

With AQA Psychology, you’ll develop critical thinking skills, the ability to analyse complex information, and a scientific approach to understanding behaviour. The course is not only intellectually stimulating but also highly relevant to a wide range of careers, including psychology, healthcare, education, and business.

You’ll explore real-world applications of psychological theories and engage in experiments, discussions, and research, making learning both interactive and practical. Whether you’re aiming for a career in psychology or simply curious about the mind, AQA A level Psychology is the perfect stepping stone to future success.

Assessment

• Paper 1: (2 hrs) 96 marks: Social Influence, Memory, Attachment, Psychopathology.
• Paper 2: (2 hrs) 96 marks: Approaches, Biopsychology, Research methods.
• Paper 3: (2 hrs) 96 marks: Issues and Debates, Relationships, Schizophrenia, Forensic
• Psychology.

Entry Requirements

• GCSE grade 5 or above in English, Maths and Science

Future Destinations

AQA A level Psychology provides a strong foundation for higher education and a wide range of careers. The course develops essential skills such as critical thinking, research methods, data analysis, and communication skills that are highly valued in university studies and the workplace.

For those interested in pursuing psychology at the university level, this A level offers a head start by covering key concepts and theories that are fundamental to undergraduate psychology courses. It also aligns well with other fields like sociology, criminology, education, and healthcare, making it a versatile choice for various degree programs.

In terms of career prospects, A level Psychology is beneficial for careers in mental health, counselling, social work, education, marketing, human resources, and any field that requires a deep understanding of human behaviour. The analytical and interpersonal skills gained from this course prepare you to excel in roles that involve working with people, solving complex problems, and making informed decisions.

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