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01287 280800 www.pursglove.ac.uk

Welcome to Prior Pursglove College! We are awell established Sixth Form College with along history of providing an excellenteducational experience for our students.

We have a strong reputation for high standards,outstanding facilities and a real commitment tohelping you, as an individual, to be as successfulas you possibly can be. We want you to be happy here.

We specialise in full time courses for the 16-19age group, providing a very wide range ofAdvanced level and Intermediate courses whichcan be taken in any combination. We also offer anextensive range of adult education and leisurecourses, which you will find information about inour Community Learning and Leisure Guide.

The results that our students achieve regularlyplace us among the top performing colleges in thecountry. We are proud of their achievements andof the part we have played as a college in theirfuture success. Our most recent and highlysuccessful Ofsted inspection in particular praisedour high standards and the care and support wegive our students.

At Prior, you will find first class staff who reallycare about you and your success. You can beassured of a warm and friendly welcome and adesire to support every individual to achieve thevery best they are capable of. You will beencouraged to develop a mature and responsibleapproach to your studies, so that you can learnand achieve to the best of your ability. We alsohope that you will enjoy your time with us andmake new friends. We have a lovely campus,attractive buildings and excellent resources.

Taking the step from school to college is anexciting move. Our Open Evenings offer you andyour parents the chance to visit the college anddiscuss your options with staff and, mostimportantly, our students. We are committed tohelping you make an informed choice about yourfuture and we hope you will come along to one ofthese evenings and find out how welcoming weare for yourself.

This is an exciting time in the history of our college.In May 2011 we celebrated our 450th anniversary;there having been educational provision on ourcampus since 1561.

We are very proud of our historical heritageand we are confident that the college hasa bright future ahead. I hope verymuch that you will want to join usand be a part of that too. I lookforward to meeting you soon.

Judy BurtonPrincipal

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The Students’ Union is a group of students atPrior that represent all of the students in thecollege. We meet at lunchtime every Tuesdayto discuss ideas that can make the collegeexperience even better for students.

The President and Vice President are elected bythe student body and we have officers in placewho take on the key roles of Secretary, Treasurer,NUS Link, Equality and Diversity, Charities,Marketing and Facilities.

We campaign for student discounts in the localarea, lobby MPs and the local council as well asworking closely with the College SeniorManagement Team. We are always available tohave a chat about any problems and representyou in any issues you may have, we also workclosely with the NUS.

We have a separate Events Team who in the pastyear have organised events such as Prior’s GotTalent, the Haunted Sleep Over, Pillow Wars andFreshers’ Fayre, as well as a trip to Alton Towers.The team have had a successful year of fundraising,with a fun week for Children in Need, a Help ForHeroes campaign and a sponsored abseil. Theyalso organised many fun activities for Red NoseDay, including a Staff-Student Dance-Off!

The Students’ Union is a great way toexpress issues positively and get involvedwith college life whilst boosting yourexperiences. Sign up at the Freshers’Fayre or come along to one of our weeklymeetings to make any suggestions andto meet the team. Otherwise, email usor speak to our Student Liaison Officerwho is situated next door to theRefectory and always available for achat.

Embrace college life with Prior PursgloveStudents’ Union.

Contact us:

[email protected]

Cameron Giles (President)[email protected]

Adam Bates (Vice President)[email protected]

Andrea Booth (Student Liaison Officer)[email protected]

The facilities at the college are some of thebest in the area with an extensive ResourceCentre housing over 200 networkedcomputers and individual study areas, as wellas digital video facilities and traditionallending and information services.

In addition, we have numerous specialist teachingfacilities including a drama theatre, full size sportshall, music technology suite, digital languagelaboratory, science laboratories, specialist artrooms including a photographic dark room as wellas extensive IT facilities and a learning café.

All students have internet and email access viamore than 600 computers and WiFi is availablefree of charge throughout the campus. Almostevery area of the campus is accessible to studentswith mobility difficulties. There are ramps,automatic doors, lifts and accessible toilets andreception has a hearing loop.

We recently completed a £6m building andrefurbishment project, which provides many moremodern classrooms, an extended ResourceCentre and more communal space for students.The college will be further upgrading its facilitiesover the next few years, ensuring that it continuesto provide the best resources possible.

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At Prior Pursglove College we are able tooffer a much wider range of subjects thanmany other colleges and schools due to thelarge number of students who choose tocome here for their sixth form studies.

You can be sure to find a subject that interests you.If you require more in-depth information about thesubjects we offer please take a look at the collegewebsite where you will find copies of our courseinformation guides. Alternatively, you can contactthe college either by telephone or email and wewill send you copies.

Level 2 CoursesGCSEs, BTEC First Diplomas and other short courses

For the A level and National Diploma courses theentry requirements are a minimum of five GCSEgrades C or above and for some subjects theremay be specific GCSE requirements. For theIntermediate level courses students generally havesome GCSEs grades D/E, although there arealways exceptions and we will look at eachstudent as an individual. Contact us if you are notsure.

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Art & Design 14

Business (Applied) 16

Child Development 17Community Sports Leaders Award 18

English Language 22English Functional Skills 22

Health & Social Care 27

ICT (OCR Level 2) 28

Latin 30

Mathematics (Modular) 33Functional Mathematics 33

Performing Arts 36

Science 39Spanish 40

Level 3 CoursesAS/A Levels and BTEC Extended Diplomas

Accounting 12

Animal Management BTEC Subsidiary Diploma 12

Archaeology 13

Art & Design (Fine) 13

Art & Design (Graphic Communication) 13

Art & Design (Photography) 14

Art & Design (Textiles) 14

Biology 15

Business Studies 15

Business Studies BTEC Subsidiary Diploma 16

Chemistry 17

Classical Civilisation 17

Computing 18

Design & Technology 19

Drama 19

Economics 20

English Language 21

English Language & Literature 21

English Literature 21

Environmental Studies 23

Film Studies 23

French 24

Further Mathematics 24

Geography 25

Geology 26

German 26

Government & Politics 27

Health & Social Care 27

History 28

ICT (OCR Level 3) 29

Italian 29

Law 30

Law (Applied) BTEC Certificate & Subsidiary Diploma 31

Mathematics 31

Pure Mathematics 31

Decision Mathematics 31

Mechanics 32

Statistics 32

Use of Mathematics 33

Media Studies 34

Media Studies OCR (Writing & Publishing) 34

Music 35

Music Technology 35

Performing Arts (Acting Pathway) 36

Philosophy & Ethics (Religious Studies) 37

Physical Education 37

Physics 37

Psychology 38

Psychology (Use of Statistics) 38

Sociology 39

Spanish 40

Sport (Development, Coaching & Fitness)BTEC Certificate, Subsidiary Diploma and Extended Diploma 41

Statistics 41

We offer a wide and varied choice of subjectsand courses at different levels. Whatever yourability, you should be able to find a course tosuit you. We welcome applications from allthose who feel they can benefit from ourcourses.

The better your GCSE grades, the higher the levelat which you can enter the college. However, thereis still plenty on offer if you have lower GCSEgrades. Please do not be deterred by any lack offormal qualifications or by not meeting the exactentry requirements – come and talk to us as wemay be able to help.

Our courses fall into two categories; Intermediatelevel (level 2) and Advanced level (level 3).Intermediate level courses are generally suitablefor students who have GCSE grades D/E and whofeel they are capable of improving these gradeswith an extra year at college.

Advanced level courses generally last for twoyears and since they are relatively demanding theyare suitable for those with at least five GCSEs atgrades A* to C. In addition, many of our subjectsalso have specific GCSE subject requirements.You will find this information in our CourseInformation Guides, which you can view on ourcollege website. Alternatively, you can contact thecollege to receive individual copies.

Some students have a mixed programme ofcourses at levels 2 and 3 to suit their individualneeds.

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We offer a good range of GCSEs and vocationalGCSEs. Many combinations are available to suitindividual needs and make a coherent programmeof study.

INTERMEDIATE COURSES

What makes us stand out is the very large range ofsubjects and combinations which we can offer(around 50 at AS level and equivalent). The collegehas great expertise in advising on the bestcombination of subjects and the requirements ofcertain university courses and specific careers.

What is an A Level?

An A level normally takes two years to completefull-time. It is split into two parts, AS (AdvancedSubsidiary) and the final A (Advanced) level. ASand A level qualifications focus on traditional studyskills and each part makes up fifty percent of thefinal grade. You can choose from a wide range ofacademic subjects, as well as some ‘applied’subjects.

A and AS levels are one of the main routes intohigher education, but they are also useful if youwant to go straight into a job or training.

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Most students studying for A levels take three orfour AS levels in their first year. This means youcan keep your options open about which subjectsto study as a full A level.

AS and A levels are predominantly assessedthrough formal examinations, with a pass gradefrom an A* to an E.

The AS level is normally studied in one year andthe standard is between GCSE and A level. Thisprovides a smooth transition into the second yearof study which is normally at the Advanced level.An AS is a qualification in its own right and earnspoints towards university applications. All of ourcourses are modular, with the opportunity to re-sitexaminations if required.

The second part of the course is studied for oneyear after the AS and so completes the full A level.Most of you will specialise in three subjects at thislevel as they become increasingly morechallenging in the second year. You will also be clearer about your interests and your career plans will have developed.

Intermediate Courses (Level 2)

GCSEs

Vocational GCSEs

First Diplomas/Certificates

Advanced Courses (Level 3)

AS/A levels

Applied AS/A levels

National Diplomas

Commitment to your courses

As a student at Prior Pursglove College, you areexpected to show strong personal commitment toyour college studies and to your individual learninggoals by working hard. We ask that you tell staffabout any concerns that may affect your learning,so that help and support can be arranged. Youshould participate fully in your chosen programmeof study by maintaining full attendance in alltimetabled activities, identifying periods within

your timetable for private study, being punctual,completing assignments and homework andmeeting required deadlines.

At the beginning of each year you will be asked tomake a formal commitment to your studies, whenyou will sign and abide by a learner agreementwhich outlines the commitment you make to youreducation.

What is a BTEC ExtendedDiploma, Subsidiary Diploma and Award?

These are more practical, work-related courseswhich allow you to gain the knowledge and skillsneeded in specific vocational areas. You will learnby completing projects and assignments that arebased on realistic workplace situations, activitiesand demands. As well as learning about theemployment area that you have chosen, you willdevelop the skills needed to start your futurecareer. It can be the equivalent of one AS level (thecertificate), one full A level (the subsidiary diploma)or three full A levels (the extended diploma)depending on the course chosen. There is also theoption to combine studying this qualification withadditional AS level(s). At the end of the course youwill have sufficient qualifications to progress touniversity or to enter employment.

01287 280800 www.pursglove.ac.ukPrior Pursglove College Full Time Course Guide 2012-2013

What is an Applied A Level?

These are designed for those of you who prefer amore hands on approach to your studies as theyare largely assessed through coursework andassignments. They provide a broad introduction tospecific vocational areas and help you develop thenecessary skills, knowledge and understandingwithin that area. They are organised in the sameway as other A level courses, with the two yearcourse being split into AS and A2. There is alsothe option for you to study some of the subjectsas a single or double award, the single offeringyou the equivalent of one A level and the doublethe equivalent of two. Single or double awardprogrammes can be combined with other subjectsto produce a full programme of study.

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AccountingAS/A Level

In the first year of thecourse you will learn thefundamentals of record-keeping and the purposes,

techniques and consequences of effective financialaccounting. You will gain an appreciation of howfinancial accounting helps in measuring, monitoringand planning successful business operations andyou will study business ownership, control,profitability, performance and budgeting.

Throughout the second year of the course you willdevelop an understanding of financial accountingtechniques for businesses without a completeaccounting system, for partnerships and limitedcompanies. You will study in greater depth howaccounting techniques aid business managementand play a part in the decision making process. Youwill also investigate capital investment, budgetingand sources of finance as well as considering socialaccounting issues. There are two modules in boththe first and second year of the course and learningis assessed by external examinations.

Animal Management BTEC Subsidiary Diploma

This course is the equivalent of one A level and isstudied over two years. You will be able to studythree other subjects alongside it. Course contentincludes:

• Animal health

• Animal behaviour

• Practical handling and husbandry

• Animal welfare and breed development

• Management of exotics

• Animal collection and management.

disciplines; painting, drawing and printmaking.Observational drawing underpins the course, andforms the starting point of all your projects. We willexplore themes in fine art such as landscape, thehuman form and still-life. You will be introduced toexpressive and experimental techniques as well asconceptual and contemporary practice. Your workwill be informed by your contextual studies and you will be encouraged to visit galleries.

Art & Design (GraphicCommunication) AS/A Level

In this course you will study a range of art skills thatfocus on the communication of ideas and information.The first year introduces you to graphic image making,typographic design, illustration and the effective useof text and image. You will also be taught thefundamentals of digital photography and Photoshop.As you progress into the second year you will workon more in-depth specialist projects that developthese skills further. You are assessed on your portfoliowhich will consist of design sheets, sketchbooks andfinal pieces.

Archaeology AS/A Level

Archaeology is the study of humankind’s past bylooking at material remains. We can put together apicture of societies through the ages by looking atwhat people ate, where they lived, what they woreand how they died. We can analyse everything fromburied cities to microscopic remains. We use allsorts of skills but there is an increasing use ofscience and scientific techniques in analysis.

Archaeology links well with many subjects includingBiology, Chemistry, Physics, Classics, History,Geography, Social Sciences and others. Manypeople study Archaeology because they areinterested in it, not just because they want a careerin it. Prince Charles and Nick Clegg, our DeputyPrime Minister, both have degrees in Archaeology!

We cover religion and ritual in prehistoric Europe,archaeological skills and analysis at AS level and worldarchaeology and coursework research at A2 level.

Art & Design (Fine Art) AS/A Level

Fine Art skills are at the core of all art and designpractice. On this course you will focus on three key

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“I chose to study at Prior becauseof its academic reputation andbrilliant exam results. There’s agreat atmosphere here and theteachers are friendly and treatyou with respect. I wouldrecommend it to anyone.”

Sophie Midori Kuwamura(Ex Stokesley School)AS English Literature, Fine Art, Geography,Psychology

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Art & Design (Photography: Lens-Basedand Light-Based Media) AS/A Level

This course offers both traditional darkroomtechniques as well as digital image making. In thefirst year you will be given a technical introduction tothe SLR camera and darkroom processing as wellas the use of digital cameras. Throughout the courseyou will be expected to explore a range of themescreatively. Projects encourage you to develop yourown personal ideas in your work and you will workwith experimental techniques. You will investigate thework of various photographers looking at bothtechnical aspects and the meaning and content ofthe work. You will also be given the opportunity toexplore moving image and video.

Art & Design (Textile Design) AS/A Level

This course is very different to GCSE textiles. In thefirst year you will be introduced to various textiletechniques such as machine and hand embroidery,appliqué, printmaking and construction. As youprogress on the course you will beencouraged to explore more experimentaltechniques producing both sculpturaland fashion-based outcomes.You will develop yourexpressive drawing and

painting skills, developing your understanding ofelements such as pattern, texture and colour whichwill lead you to produce exciting textile work.

Art & Design GCSE

This is a one year course comprising of two units,one completed in the autumn term and the other thespring term. The coursework portfolio makes upsixty percent of the course and is made up of aseries of short projects looking at photography, fineart, textiles and graphic design. In the externally settask you will be given a question paper as yourstarting point, preparatory time is followed by a tenhour exam.

Throughout the course you will be encouraged toexplore and discuss your ideas and be creative andopen-minded. Passing this course will allow you toprogress onto any AS art course or the NationalDiploma.

Business Studies AS/A Level

This course emphasises the importance of businessto individuals and society and encourages you toexamine and evaluate real business situations.

The AS level introduces you to the challenges andissues associated with starting a business, includingfinancial planning. It then explores the key internalfunctions of business and how the management ofthese can assist in improving the effectiveness andperformance of a business.

At A level you will look at financial, marketing,operations and HR strategies used by largerbusinesses and how these adapt to changingcircumstances. You will also consider the effects thatexternal factors have on businesses and how theyplan for and manage change, including leadershipstyle and change in business culture.

Biology AS/A Level

No science is changing asmuch as Biology. Mediacoverage of issues such asthe ‘Human GenomeProject’ and genetic

engineering has brought the subject to everyone’sattention over recent years and there is a wide rangeof courses and careers to which you could progresswith a qualification in a Biology-related subject. Youmay be interested in areas such as biotechnology,environmental protection, medicine or nutrition, andmay wish to go on to study at degree level after A2,or you may simply want to take Biology at AS levelover one year to complement your other subjects.


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“I chose to come and study atPrior Pursglove because of theopportunities available andbecause of how different itseemed compared to my oldschool. The help and adviceyou get is always useful andthere is always someone tohelp if you need it.”

Katie Norman(Ex Whitby School)AS Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, French

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“I chose to come to Prior becauseit was the only college to offerAccountancy. I have achieved myaims at the college, where I havealways been given support whenI needed it and the staff havealways been very helpful.”

Rahel Aziz(Ex Oakfields School)Business GCSE (Double Award), progressed toBTEC Personal Business & Finance, AS Business Studies, Statistics

Business Studies BTEC Subsidiary Diploma

This qualification equips you with a broadunderstanding of the essential knowledge and skillsneeded to help you begin or progress in a widevariety of business careers. The four core units in thesubsidiary diploma give learners an introduction toand understanding of the business environment,management of resources, marketing andcommunication – all fundamental to the success ofbusiness organisations. In the second year there willbe optional units that are chosen based on keyareas of interest, for example, starting a smallbusiness or event management to name just twopossible modules.

Business (Applied) GCSE (Double Award)

The Applied GCSE in Business is an ideal course forthose with no prior knowledge of the subject,wanting a broad background in the subject area.With a value equivalent of two GCSEs thefundamental philosophy of this course is that inorder to understand the nature of the business, youneed to experience the business environment foryourself. This will be achieved through the study of,and participation in, a series of vocationally-relatedactivities that will bring you into contact with realbusinesses. This is achieved using a variety ofapproaches including work experience, links withlocal employers, case studies, research and invitedspeakers.

Students taking the full double award will take fourmodules. These are:

• Business in action

• Making your mark in business

• Working in a business

• Business and you.

Classical Civilisation AS/A Level

This is a fascinating and challenging course in whichyou study the ancient civilisations of the Greeks andthe Romans. It is a stimulating subject where you willexplore ancient literature, culture and artefacts. Youwill consider a range of themes and characters fromancient literature and real life, and explore possibleanswers to questions such as:

• What is a typical Greek hero?

• How did ancient Greek and Roman life differ fromour own?

• What can we learn about Roman society from itstowns, buildings and institutions?

• What purpose did the myths serve in ancientculture?

• What can archaeological and literary evidence tellus about the ancient world?

Chemistry AS/A Level

Chemists are involved ineverything from researchinto solving globalenvironmental and pollutionproblems to the large-scalemanufacture of plastics,

perfumes and medicines. This subject not onlyallows you to investigate chemical processes butalso enables you to make judgements on theefficiency of their reactions and how we minimise theimpact on the environment. You will develop a highstandard of practical skills and earn a qualificationwhich is well respected by universities as one whichis both challenging and thorough in its approach.

Child Development GCSE

Are you interested in a career which involves workingwith children? Are you simply interested in findingout more about the way children develop from birthto 7 years old? You may be considering a career inprimary teaching, children’s nursing, nursery nursing,midwifery, social work or related areas. If so, thiscourse will be a useful addition to your portfolio andit will also increase your life skills.

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“I chose to attend Prior becauseof the wide range of courseson offer and the friendlyatmosphere on the collegecampus.”

Zoe Lyons(Ex Redcar Community College)AS Biology, Classical Civilisation, History,Health & Social Care

Community Sports Leaders Award

A practical, sports based course which is open toanyone interested in developing their leadership skills.(You are not assessed on your sporting ability.) It willenable you to have some fun and gain a very usefulqualification at the same time by learning how toorganise and supervise young people playing a widevariety of games – some of them invented by you.As part of the course you will also learn emergencyfirst aid skills. Children from local schools will stretchyour organisational skills and, after completing therequired number of hours of experience (which yourecord in a log book), you will achieve a level twoaward that is broadly equivalent to the Duke ofEdinburgh’s bronze award.

Computing AS/A Level

There is a very clear distinction between ICT andComputing. Computing uses a computer to solveproblems by designing new sequences ofinstructions (algorithms) and running them on thecomputer. This course has an emphasis on abstractthinking, general problem solving, algorithmic andmathematical reasoning and scientific andengineering based concepts. It is a good foundationfor advanced logical reasoning and has a greatertechnical emphasis. At AS level about half of thetime is spent on practical lessons, mainly focusingon problem solving through writing programs. Theremainder of the time looks at the theoreticalaspects, some of which are outlined below:

• Fundamentals of computer systems

• How computer systems store digital data

• Internal components of a computer

• The wide range of hardware devices

• Data transmission and networking

• Implications of the use of computers.

Drama AS/A Level

Drama is a very lively course which incorporates thepractical study of set texts from the Greeks to thelate twentieth century as well as investigating thetheory and practise of acting, directing and staginglive theatre. It offers you the chance to devise yourown productions and to analyse and reviewperformances you have seen as an audience. Youwill also look at the theory and practise of keytheatre practitioners who have had a large influenceon the modern stage as we know it today, such asKonstantin Stanislavski and Bertolt Brecht. Thecourse is assessed by written exams, practicalperformance and a written portfolio.

Design &Technology AS/A Level

Our Design & TechnologyProduct Design coursereflects the wide-ranging

activities of professional designers and gives you theopportunity for hands-on experience of design andmaking in plastics, wood and other materials. Thedesign and practical workshop based studies aresupported by exploration of human factors,materials, technology, marketing processes anddesign processes.

Design and technology is a valuable discipline formany career paths including architecture, construction,town planning, all engineering disciplines and manyjobs in the design and creative industries.

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“I came to Prior because it is areally good local college thatprovided the right courses forme. I attended the open dayand the staff were reallyfriendly, the college is just anice place to be.”

Lewis Parkin(Ex Laurence Jackson School)AS Design & Technology, Geography,Mathematics, Physical Education

Economics A/ASLevel

We ALL contribute to theperformance of theeconomy via spending andsaving decisions, thereforewe should build up an

understanding of the economy and its impact onfirms and citizens! This vital and stimulating courseembraces a wide range of academic skills. In the AScourse you will investigate macro andmicroeconomics.

Microeconomics addresses issues such as:

• Why are house prices so high?

• Can pollution be effectively controlled?

• Should governments interfere with markets?

The macroeconomic issues covered include:

• Why does the government have an inflation targetand how does it affect us?

• What happens to the economy if we all decide tospend more?

• How are we affected by the Chinese and Indianeconomies?

If you choose to go on to the second year of thecourse you will develop further your knowledge ofthe micro and macroeconomics learnt at AS,considering economic concepts and theories ingreater depth and recognising the values andlimitations of the economic models. You will alsoexplore the global context, which includes theimpact of globalisation on UK economicperformance and the European Union context,incorporating the effect of EU membership andeconomic policy on the UK economy.

English Language & Literature A/AS Level

This course is similar to the mixed course you willhave studied at GCSE. It is a mixture of languageand literature, without any coursework at AS level.You will study either prose or drama texts and youwill look at the language of speech and completelanguage production work.

At A2 you examine a further three texts, one ofwhich is poetry, two of these texts being assessedthrough a coursework folder. You will adapt existingtexts for a new audience and make a final analyticalcomparison. At all times you will look at howlanguage is used in both literary and non-literarycontexts.

English Literature AS/A Level

You will study a broad and interesting range of textsin a variety of genres (prose, poetry and drama) bywriters past and present. These include at AS level:the modern novel, Shakespeare and drama andpoetry in context. At A2 level these include: twofurther texts studied in context, a courseworkcomparative piece and a final thematic paper.

English Language AS/A Level

This is a very demanding course which introducesyou to the ways that language works. It is essentiallya course in applied linguistics, the ‘science’ ofEnglish. You will study issues and ‘live texts’ ratherthan complete books. At AS level you will look atlinguistic context through analytical and creativework and explore concepts such as language andrepresentation as well as developing yourunderstanding of how language creates meaning inwritten, spoken and electronic modes.

At A2 you will complete a linguistic investigation intoa topic of your own choosing, study how Englishlanguage has changed from 1600 to the present dayand explore how it varies from person to person andplace to place.

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“I chose Prior because of itsgreat reputation and excellentvariety of courses. I’drecommend it to anyone.”

Sarah Caton(Ex St Peters RC School)AS Accounting, Business Studies, Economics,Mathematics

“I came to Prior because of itshigh pass rates. Whilst here Iwould say that the support Ihave been given towardsachieving my chosen careeraim has been outstanding.”

Mason Hallet(Ex Ormesby School)AS English Language & Literature, ICT,Psychology, Sociology

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English Language I-GCSE

You will follow the newly endorsed I-GCSE forEnglish, which is suitable for students taking thecourse in one year. You will study a range of writtentexts and carry out a variety of assignmentsassessing your skills in speaking, listening, readingand writing. You will complete an entirely new folderof coursework, giving you the opportunity to developresearch, reading comprehension and writing in anenvironment that encourages independent learning.The I-GCSE exam tests the same skills for readingand writing and counts for fifty percent of the course.The qualification you will receive is an AQACertificate in English Language which is theequivalent of a GCSE in terms of acceptability forprogression onto AS courses and higher education.You will automatically be entered for the Foundation

paper (for a predicted C – G grade) but dependingon your performance throughout the year, you maybe entered for the Higher paper (for a predicted A* –D grade) in consultation with your teacher.

English Functional Skills

This is a one year level 2 course involving practicalapplications of literacy in everyday situations. It leadsto a well recognised qualification which can be agood alternative to GCSE English.

Film Studies AS/ALevel

Film Studies is an excitingand stimulating course. Inthe first year thecoursework production will

introduce you to the codes and conventions ofcinema so that you can learn to read a film inspecific detail – observing the reasons behindcamerawork, editing and other factors. You will thenuse this knowledge to produce a portfolio of writtenessays and practical work (screenplays/storyboards)where you demonstrate how meaning is made toaudiences of film. You will investigate British andAmerican cinema – exploring themes in cinema,business related information, and audience responseto cinema.

The A2 coursework sees you making your own shortfilm, as well as conducting your own critical researchproject into a selection of films that you areparticularly interested in. The rest of the courseexplores world cinema, national cinema and historicalperiods and political examples of film making.

Environmental Studies AS/A Level

The subject looks at natural processes, especiallychemical and biological, and the impact of humanactivities upon them. Environmental Studies providesan opportunity to study a range of issues ofenvironmental importance and the scientificprinciples and concepts which underpin them. Youwill study habitat destruction, global warming, ozonedepletion, smog, waste management and pollution.

The emphasis is on a scientific approach to thestudy of the environment, to provide the knowledgeand understanding to enable an informed judgementto be made on matters of actual or potentialenvironmental conflict. This means that you assessthe effectiveness of recycling of waste e.g. bottlebanks or why wind farms are falling out of favourwith some environmental groups.

Environmental Studies is considered by mostuniversities as a science. This is a new field ofscience that combines the issues-based strands ofBiology, Geography, Geology and Chemistry. Theinterest and appreciation of the environment hasgrown hugely in the last decade and now pervadesin all aspects of human activity and development.The increasing threats of pollution, climate change,resource shortages and spiralling costs of energysupplies makes this a very relevant subject.

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French AS/A Level

• Young people, their lives and concerns

• Hobbies and leisure – what do young people do intheir free time?

• Crime, terrorism and immigration

• Are health issues important to young people?What about smoking, drug abuse and diet?

A stimulating and challenging course, highlyrespected by all universities and a useful preparationfor a wide variety of careers. This course will takeyou well beyond GCSE, giving you a thoroughgrounding in the language so as to enable you touse French to discuss and find out about a widerange of topics such as those above. All this andmuch more in a course that combines linguistic skillswith analytical thinking and evidence-basedreasoning. Self-reliance skills and adaptability aredeveloped by those who participate in exchangeswith a French school.

AS/A level French is a demanding but highlyrewarding qualification. A weekly conversation classwith a native speaker, exchange trips plus classroomwork will enable you to move from the transactionallanguage of GCSE to Advanced level work whereyou will acquire real fluency.

Further Mathematics AS/A Level

If you enjoy Mathematics, and are looking for achallenge and a chance to explore new and/or moresophisticated mathematical concepts, then you maybenefit from taking Further Mathematics. This can bea rewarding and stimulating course which enablesyou to distinguish yourself as an able mathematicianin the university and employment market and it willcertainly prepare you for the transition to aMathematics-related university course.

In addition to the A level Mathematics units, a furtherthree Pure Maths units are studied, plus a furtherthree chosen from Mechanics, Statistics andDecision Maths. There is the option to study FurtherMathematics as a three unit AS level or the full sixunit A level; both options are available in the secondyear of your studies and are assessed throughexaminations.

The A2 course includes managing coasts andexamining geological hazards like volcanoes,landslides and earthquakes. Human topics includepopulation pressure and resource management andmanaging cities’ challenges and issues. You willstudy modern warfare and civil conflicts as well aslocal scale planning problems and issues associatedwith urban regeneration. There is the opportunity toparticipate in local fieldwork in Teesside and York,but also further afield such as Manchester, Londonor New York.

Geography AS/A Level

AS Geography studies corehuman and physicalgeography. A wide range oftopics, many contemporary

and present day topical issues, are consideredthrough the study of specific case studies. You willalso develop a variety of geographical skills, whichwill broaden and deepen existing knowledge and beemployed with a greater degree of independence.The AS topics include: rivers, floods andmanagement, coastal environments, globalpopulation change and health issues. The healthissues module may be of particular interest toprospective Medicine students and Biologists.

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G“I chose to go to Prior Pursglovebecause it was local and had agood reputation.”

Ivan Mupazviriho(Ex Huntcliff School)AS Chemistry, Further Mathematics, Physics

“I chose to study at Prior becauseof the wide variety of courseson offer and the opportunitiesthat are offered to you. Prior is afriendly and supportiveenvironment, which preparesyou for the outside world afteryour college education.”

Louise Henderson(Ex Nunthorpe School)AS Environmental Studies, Geography, History, Psychology

Geology AS/A Level

This course encourages fieldwork, lab work and ahands on approach to learning this new subject.

Geology is the branch of science concerned with thestructure, evolution and dynamics of the Earth andwith the exploitation of the mineral and energyresources that it contains in a sustainable way.

Geology examines hazards, resources, platetectonics, past life and extinctions, map and fieldskills. Geology applies physical, chemical andbiological principles to the investigation of the Earth,but also involves a distinctive scientific methodology,invoking internal and external Earth processes toexplain the evolution of the planet through geologicaltime.

Do you have an interest in the Earth as a whole andgeological history? Unlike most sciences, Geologyrequires outdoor study to be fully understood. Anumber of local and regional field visits are offeredfrom Whitby, High Force and Cauldron Snout toIngleton Waterfalls to name a few. The AS courseintroduces the key ideas of the subject includingmap work, selected fossils, mineral androcks and the Earth’s structure withtectonics. The A2 is more specific,with optional themes includingnatural resources, advancedmap work and glacialgeology and climatechange.

German AS/A Level

• Drugs, smoking and health issues – are theyimportant for young people?

• Families and relationships – what is important foryoung people?

• Environmental issues and immigration – what arethe issues?

• Crime and terrorism – how can we deal withthem?

A stimulating and challenging course, highlyrespected by all universities and a useful preparationfor a wide variety of careers. AS/A level German is ademanding but highly rewarding qualification. Thiscourse will take you well beyond GCSE, giving you athorough grounding in the language so as to enableyou to use German to discuss and find out about awide range of topics such as those above. All thisand much more in a course that combines linguisticskills with analytical thinking and evidence-basedreasoning. Self-reliance skills and adaptability are

developed by those whoparticipate in exchanges with a

German school.

Health & SocialCare AS/A Level

This course covers aspectsof Biology, Sociology,Psychology and Health.

The Health and Social Careservices are studied along with many of the issuesthat will affect you if you choose to work in thissetting. It is aimed at students who are hoping toenter employment in this sector, either directly orafter further training.

The A level course will provide you with thequalifications necessary for many higher educationcourses. You will be encouraged to investigateworking environments in the Health and Social Caresector. This may be through work experience andvisits as well as via the internet and paper basedresources.

Health & Social Care GCSE

Are you interested in health and well-being? Wouldyou like to know more about first aid/riskassessments and do you enjoy putting yourjudgement to the test? Then this could be thecourse for you.

You will achieve first aid experience and visit differentcare settings to help you understand aboutsafeguarding and protecting individuals in care. Youwill learn about healthy eating and exercise forpromoting health and well-being and investigate jobroles in different care settings.

This course could help you move onto other A levelsafter completion, or simply help you find work indifferent care settings, from childcare through to theelderly.

Government & Politics AS/A Level

This is a subject that allows you to exploregovernmental practice both in the UK and the USA,addressing questions such as:

• How does Parliament work?

• How powerful is the US president?

You will first take an AS course that will examine theUK political system:

• How democratic is the UK?

• How powerful is the Prime Minister?

• Do judges protect our rights?

• Are pressure groups beneficial to democracy?

At A2 level, you will then move on to look atAmerican government and politics:

• How do American pressure groups influenceCongress?

• How does the Constitution protect liberty in theUSA?

• How important is the Supreme Court?

• How important is race in US politics?

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History AS/A Level

This is a fascinating course where you will explorethree diverse topics:

• Russian Revolution 1880 – 1924

• Civil Rights in the USA 1945 – 1968

• Henry VIII Authority and Nation 1509 – 1540

You will study two modules in the first year, whichwill be assessed solely by examination. In thesecond year there are a further two modules, one ofwhich is coursework. History is an intriguing subject:alongside studying events which have shaped theworld we live in today, it teaches you a variety ofuseful skills such as critical thinking and evidence-based reasoning. If you want to try somethingdifferent and have a passion for History, then this isthe course for you.

ICT OCR NationalLevel 2

This course has beendeveloped to recogniselearners’ skills, knowledgeand understanding ofInformation and

Communication Technology functions, environmentsand operations. You will carry out a range of tasksthat have been designed to recognise yourachievements in a modern, practical way that isrelevant to the workplace.

All units are coursework based and internallyassessed; you can gain a pass, merit or distinction.

No previous knowledge is required for this one yearcourse. You will complete a mandatory unit whichcovers the essential skills for the modern workplace,such as organisation and file management,downloading from the internet, sending andreceiving emails, using spreadsheets and databasemanagement. You will complete two other units.Many students use this as a stepping stone toemployment or as a progression route to the OCRNational level 3.

Italian AS Level

Able linguists with ability to grasp grammatical rulesquickly would be able to study Italian from scratchand reach AS level in one year. We have had severalvery successful students with no previousknowledge of the language who have gone on toachieve high grades and pursue the subject todegree level at university.

A stimulating and challenging course, highly respectedby all universities and a useful preparation for a widevariety of careers. AS/A level Italian is a demanding buthighly rewarding qualification which will give you athorough grounding in the language so as to enableyou to use Italian to discuss and find out about a widerange of topics such as those outlined below:

• Eathquakes in Aquila

• Changing values in traditional Italy

• Corruption and violence in Italian football

• Italian partisans overthrowing Mussolini

All this and much more in a course that combineslinguistic skills with analytical thinking and evidence-based reasoning.

ICT OCR National Level 3

At this level students are offered a more in-depthlook at ICT in the modern workplace, and given aninsight into its role in specialist careers over twoyears. This qualification will provide the practicalskills and knowledge required to succeed in ICTrelated careers. This is offered at Certificate levelwhich is the equivalent of one A level and also atDiploma level which is the equivalent of two A levels.

In the first year, all students will study two mandatoryunits, and a further one unit for the Certificate or afurther four for the Diploma. Throughout this yearyou will develop a thorough knowledge andunderstanding of communication in a businesscontext, and apply this to using ICT in effectivebusiness communications. You will learn whyteamwork is an essential skill in working in ICTrelated projects.

In the second year you will learn how to use varioustechniques to analyse and interpret numerical data,and develop interactive media product toshowcase an event or situation. Again, there are afurther three units for the Certificate and a furthersix for the Diploma.

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“Prior is a college that aims tochallenge you and also helpsyou achieve beyond yourexpectations. It offers manydifferent opportunities andclubs to get involved in and isa great stepping stone toprepare you for your future.”

Olivia Wood(Ex Huntcliff School)AS English Language & Literature, French,Philosophy, GCSE Italian

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Latin GCSE

We offer you a beginners’course, which can lead onto a GCSE qualification.This course is fast-pacedand stimulating. You canlearn Latin in two years and

gain a greater understanding of your own languageand culture. Latin is a written language so theemphasis is on learning to read it in the original. Aswell as studying the language you will also consideraspects of Roman culture through archaeologicalevidence. In the second year you will study someoriginal Latin authors such as Livy and Suetonious.

Law AS/A Level

• Ever wondered about the difference betweenmurder and manslaughter?

• Or what society hopes to achieve by sendingsomeone to prison?

• Or the difference between theft, robbery andburglary?

• Or what the difference is between juries andmagistrates; a solicitor and a barrister; or thedifferent types of court?

These and many other questions will be answeredduring the course. Our course starts by looking atthe way the English legal system is organised, andthe professionals involved. Study where the lawcomes from (Parliament and judges) beforecompleting year one with an introductory look atcriminal law and negligence.

In the second year we focus on criminal law andlegal issues (such as law and morals and law andjustice) where you have the chance to explore yourown ideas. The course combines a range ofclassroom techniques with various enrichmentopportunities.

Mathematics AS/A Level

Whatever your ability inMathematics, our aim isthat you develop yourunderstanding and

enjoyment of the subject as much as possible andachieve success in your chosen course. AllMathematics A levels are highly regarded byemployers, universities and colleges for a wide rangeof courses and careers. All of our courses arecurrently made up from units from the AQASpecifications in Mathematics and Statistics; threeunits complete the AS award and a further threeunits form the A level. All of the units are assessedthrough examinations. The first two core units inPure Mathematics represent two thirds of the courseand are common to all of our AS and A levelMathematics courses:

Pure Mathematics

You will be extending your knowledge and skills intopics such as algebra and trigonometry, as well aslearning some brand new ideas such as calculus.Although many of the ideas are interesting in theirown right, they also serve as an importantfoundation for the other branches of Mathematics.

You will then choose one of the following options forthe last third of your course.

Decision Mathematics

Decision Mathematics involves the use of algorithmsto solve a wide range of practical problems such asthe scheduling of complex projects, transportplanning and the routing of telecommunicationmessages. This type of Mathematics will appeal tothose of a practical nature and will combine well withsubjects such as Computing, InformationTechnology or Business Studies.

Applied Law (BTEC SubsidiaryDiploma & Certificate)

Law is the practice of enforcing social control byregulating people’s behaviour. It is about rules,regulations and laws passed by the BritishParliament and the European Union. We divide lawinto the Criminal Code, which deals with topics suchas murder and theft, and the Civil Code, which dealswith issues such as disputes between neighboursand personal injury claims.

BTEC qualifications are highly regarded by bothuniversities and employers. This programme of studywill provide you with a more practical insight into theworld of legal work and will help prepare you for acareer in the police force, local government,business and areas of legal practice. It will alsoprovide a basis for future professional qualificationsand a rewarding career.

You will study such subjects such as:

• Dispute Solving in the Legal System

• Understanding Law Making

• Aspects of Legal Liability

• Unlawful Homicide and Police Powers

• Aspects of Property Offences and Police Powers

• Aspects of the Law of Tort

This course is assessed by portfolio through bothoral and written assessments.

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“I chose to come to Prior as ithas a friendly and relaxedatmosphere. All the teachershave been extremely supportiveand helped me to get the bestgrades at the end of the year.”

Elizabeth Harper(Ex Bydales School)AS Biology, Critical Thinking, Law,Mathematics, Psychology

Mathematics (Modular) GCSE

This is a one year modular course which will enableyou to improve on GCSE grades of D/E. Modularexams are taken during the year and at the end,potentially giving students two opportunities toachieve the desired grade.

Functional Mathematics

This is a one year level 2 course involving practicalapplications of number and calculations in everydaysituations. It leads to a well recognised qualificationwhich can be a good alternative to GCSEMathematics.

Use of Mathematics

Use of Mathematics covers much the same groundas the conventional Mathematics A level but puts theemphasis more on problem-solving and the practicalapplication of Mathematics while reducing some ofthe content. This course is particularly suitable if youare less confident with algebra. There are threemodules in the first year comprising: PureMathematics, Decision and a choice betweenMechanics and Statistics (all these topic areas aresimilar to the equivalent Mathematics units but aremore practical and generally have less content). Inthe second year, there are three modules whichfocus on the applications of Mathematics andinvolve two small student projects. It is accepted bymany employers and universities as a viablealternative to the original course.

Mechanics

Mechanics is essentially the mathematics of forceand motion. You will learn the technique ofmathematical modelling – turning a complicatedphysical problem into a simpler one that can beanalysed and solved using mathematical methods.Many of the ideas you will meet will form anintroduction to such modern fields as cybernetics,robotics, biomechanics and sports science, as wellas the more traditional ideas of engineering andphysics.

Statistics

Statistics involves the extension of ideas of datahandling and probability involved in GCSEMathematics with a view to being able to drawconclusions or answers to questions such as ‘Doesdrug X reduce heart attacks?’ Many of the ideasencountered have applications in a wide variety offields such as risk analysis or quality assurance on aproduction line. Statistics can also be studied as afull A level in its own right (see separate entry).

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“I chose Prior Pursglove becauseit offers a diverse range ofsubjects and courses to choosefrom. The environment aroundthe college is always friendlyand relaxed and the teachersare very supportive andencouraging. There is also alarge range of resources tohelp you with your studies. I would really recommend thecollege to students looking fora well respected education.”

Georgia Parker(Ex Rye Hills School)AS Biology, Law, Mathematics, Performing Arts

Music Technology AS/A Level

Music Technology is an exciting opportunity forstudents who are interested in music and thepractice of understanding and using technology toproduce music. This course will involve learningabout popular forms of music and methods of musictechnology and production. You will be usingcomputer software to sequence music as well asproducing a multi-track recording and using yourcreativity to produce a sequenced arrangement of apiece of music.

Music AS/A Level

The AS and A2 qualification in Music will developyour practical, creative and analytical skills. Thecourse concentrates on your aural skills and musicalunderstanding in order to develop a firm foundationfor analysing music. The course also requires you tobe creative and to perform on your choseninstrument as a soloist, in an ensemble, or usingmusic technology.

If you choose to continue at A2 level in Music, youwill be using all the skills you have developed to gaina more intense level of musicianship. You will studymusic from the Romantic period and Jazz music ofthe twentieth century and develop a more advancedlevel of aural awareness and analytical skill. There isalso a composition or arranging assignment and asolo performance on your instrument or using musictechnology to perform.

Media Studies AS/A Level

The media play an increasingly powerful role intoday’s society. They provide us with informationand entertainment and communicate social values.AS/A Media Studies is a lively and interesting coursein which students examine all aspects of the mediain Britain today.

In the AS course you will build up a portfolio of workproducing articles, photo shoots and the frontcovers for different types of magazines – as well assupporting written analyses and research evidence.You will focus on key media concepts and learnabout TV drama and research into media industries– such as music, film, video games, newspapers orradio. Good IT skills are recommended if choosing tostudy AS Media as you will set up and maintain ablog and be using Photoshop and video editingsoftware frequently. If you choose to go on to thesecond year of the course you will produce yourown film and supporting print work and produce apresentation of the research, planning and evaluationof your work. You will also focus on contemporarymedia issues where you will critically examine therole of the mass media in our lives.

Media Studies (Writing & Publishing)National Diploma

This two year course will allow you to achieve aqualification equivalent to two full A levels. Thecourse takes the place of two AS courses on yourtimetable and there are no exams, instead work is allportfolio based.

The course follows a specialist pathway ofpublishing and writing which means you will focus inparticular on factual writing (reporting/journalism),fictional writing (scriptwriting, screenplays, shortstories), photography (digital photography andediting), drawing and illustration, graphic design anddesktop publishing (design and layout) and careerdevelopment. Professional practice is expected –you will be developing vocational skills and beexpected to think and produce work that is ofindustry standard.

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“The best things about Prior arethe helpful teachers – who putin extra time and do everythingto make sure you get the bestgrades possible – and the greatlocation with lots of places to goto eat and socialise with friends.”

Robert Wake(Ex Trinity School)AS English Language, History, Law, MediaStudies

Performing Arts(Acting Pathway)AS/A Level

An exciting course whichfocuses largely on you as aperformer. You will develop

your personal skills in performance, working towardsa final performance in the summer term.

You will have a personal skills development profilewhich you are expected to develop and maintainimprovement in, which will eventually culminate in ashowcase of work at the end of the course. Youwill also look in-depth at the performing artsindustry, from the many types ofperforming venues there are to thedifferent job roles available inthe performing arts andgetting work.

Performing ArtsBTEC First National Diploma

A one year course, equivalent to two GCSEs,offering performance opportunities in a range ofstyles. You will study the performing arts business todevelop skills for a career in the industry. It is avocational course with one hundred percentpractical assessment and coursework. Progressioncan be to AS/A level Performing Arts at this college.

Physical Education AS/A Level

This course deals with the relationship between thetheoretical and practical aspects of PE and sport,and how a better understanding of the theory canhelp improve practical performance.

The course consists of two modules. Module one –An Introduction to Physical Education – covers topicsincluding: human anatomy and physiology, acquiringmovement skills and socio-cultural studies. Thismodule is exam based and is worth sixty percent ofthe overall grade. Module two – Acquiring,Developing and Evaluating Practical Skills in PhysicalEducation – consists of an oral examination/interviewand two assessed practical activities of your choice,each worth a further twenty percent of the final grade.

Physics AS/A Level

Advanced Physics is widely regarded as the mostinnovative, up to date and best supported of allPhysics A levels. Designed, tested and supported bythe Institute of Physics, it provides an interesting andchallenging course along with an excellentfoundation for further study in science and

engineering. You will study cutting-edge conceptssuch as quantum physics, digital imaging,

data transmission, materials science,astrophysics, cosmology particle

physics, gravity andblackholes.

Philosophy & Ethics (Religious Studies) AS/A Level

This course is about asking big questions andlooking at a range of responses:

• What is real?

• Is there a God?

• What about suffering?

• Is there a right way to live?

• Can only the end justify the means?

• Are certain actions always wrong?

In AS Philosophy we look at the ideas of Plato andAristotle and the arguments for and against theexistence of God. In AS Ethics we study a range ofethical theories and apply them to medical ethics, forexample genetic engineering and thinking about war.

In A2 Philosophy we focus on topics including; lifeafter death, religious language and miracles, whilst in Ethics we examine aspects such as free will and determinism, conscience, environmental andsexual ethics.

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Sociology students answer questions such as:

• Why is divorce increasing whilst marriage isbecoming less popular?

• Why do girls have more success than boys in theeducation system?

• What skills are required to carry out sociologicalresearch?

• Does violence in the media produce violentbehaviour in society at large?

• Who commits crime and why?

• What is deviance?

We make sociology relevant to your ownexperiences and incorporate relevant topics andissues into our teaching.

Science GCSE

This one year course offersa second chance at a passin Core GCSE Science ifyou missed out first timearound. It is open to allstudents and the

opportunity to access the higher grades will beoffered to the more able students. There is also theopportunity to sit Additional Science at GCSE level ifthis is a more appropriate option to support yourfuture career aims.

Sociology AS/A Level

This fascinating and enjoyable course leads to agreater awareness of the relationship betweensociety and the individual. The focus in lessons willbe on reaching understanding through discussion ofthe issues from the four key topics studied: family &households, education & research methods, themass media and crime & deviance.

Psychology AS/A Level

Psychology is the study of the mind and behaviourand therefore is relevant to the lives of all of us. If youchoose to study Psychology you may find theanswers to questions such as:

• Why do people do as they are told?

• Why do you only remember certain things?

• Does watching TV make you violent?

• Should psychologists be allowed to experimenton humans?

• What sort of behaviour would you call ‘abnormal’?

Psychology – Use of Statistics

This one year course is for students of Psychologywho would like to increase their confidence inhandling data which is so important in Psychology. Itis fifty percent coursework and will be taught by aPsychology teacher for two lessons a week.Successful completion of this course will give youUCAS points and may also increase your chances ofbeing offered a place to study Psychology atUniversity.

Subjects S01287 280800 www.pursglove.ac.ukPrior Pursglove College Full Time Course Guide 2012-2013

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S“I chose to study at Priorbecause it has an excellentacademic reputation andoffered a wide range of subjects.The work environment is verypositive and there is a hugeopportunity to socialise withnew people. Prior was definitelythe right choice for me.”

Claire McGrogan(Ex Trinity School)AS Biology, Law, Psychology, Textiles

Spanish AS/A Level

• What is the Basque terrorist organisation ETA allabout?

• Spanish twentieth century film: Buñuel, Almodovar,Amenabar. From surrealism to melodrama

• The Fiesta Brava: can bullfighting still be justified?

• Crime and punishment, cloning and nuclearenergy

• Women’s rights in post Francoist Spain

• Digging up the Dead: should modern Spainunearth her gory past?

A stimulating and challenging course, highlyrespected by all universities and a useful preparationfor a wide variety of careers. AS/A level Spanish is ademanding but highly rewarding qualification whichwill take you well beyond GCSE, giving you athorough grounding in the language, the essentialsand the complexities of grammar and syntax,enabling you to use Spanish to discuss and find outabout a wide range of topics such as those outlinedabove. All this and much more in a course thatcombines linguistic skills with analyticalthinking and evidence-based reasoning. Self-reliance skills and adaptabilityare developed by those whoparticipate in exchanges witha Spanish school.

Spanish GCSE

Whether you are working in Britain or somewhereabroad, or on holiday on the continent, anotherlanguage can be very useful to you. You will learn tocope with a wide variety of practical situations (e.g.booking at a youth hostel or hotel, finding your way,ordering a meal, buying clothes). You will learn to talkand write in Spanish about yourself and the worldaround you. Learning Spanish on a one year courseis not easy and does require hard work but you willmake rapid progress in a small group and achievegood results.

Statistics AS/A Level

Statistics involves the extension of ideas of datahandling and probability involved in GCSEMathematics with a view to being able to drawconclusions or answers to questions such as ‘Doesdrug X reduce heart attacks?’ or ‘Is there a linkbetween gender and being left-handed?’ Many ofthe ideas encountered have applications in a widevariety of fields such as risk analysis or qualityassurance on a production line or any form ofresearch which involves analysis of data.

As an AS/A level course it is particularly useful as asupport for other subjects which may involveresearch projects, especially Psychology. The courseis assessed entirely by exams and makes minimaldemands in terms of algebra. It is therefore open tostudents who have not taken GCSE Mathematics atthe higher level. If you enjoy handling numbers andprefer more practical problems then this courseshould suit you.

Sport (Development, Coaching &Fitness) BTEC Certificate, SubsidiaryDiploma and Extended Diploma

This course is a non-exam based course studiedover two years and upon successful completion isequivalent to three A levels. The course consists ofeighteen units which cover a variety of topicsincluding; The Body in Action, Fitness Testing forSport and Exercise, Sports Nutrition, and Work-based Experience in Sport. This is a vocationalcourse which is assessed by the completion ofnumerous assignments/tasks over the two years.

This is an ideal course if you enjoy coursework, arevery organised and are looking to enter a sports-based career. The Certificate course is similar to theExtended Diploma but it is the equivalent of one ASlevel and could be taken as an alternative to AS PE.

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“The course choice was by far thebest I had seen and, aftermeeting the staff and seeinghow enthusiastic they were, Iknew this was the place to be.There is always someone onhand to help whenever youneed it – it’s just a fantasticcollege to be part of.”

Daniel Johnson(Ex Acklam Grange School)BTEC Sport (Development, Coaching & Fitness)

We want you to make the most of the timeyou spend with us and hope you will takeadvantage of some of the additional activitieswhich are offered throughout the year.

As you might expect, sport, drama and music playan important part in college. In addition there is athriving Duke of Edinburgh scheme and we alsooffer other enrichment activities such as ExoticAnimal Handling, Chinese Culture and Food,Creative Writing, Psychology for Education, BritishSign Language and First Aid.

The Law Society recently won the regional MockTrial Competition and then went on to the finals inIreland, which was an amazing experience for allthose involved. Additionally, our Debating Societywon the NORVIC colleges debating competition.

The college is a Young Enterprise Academy andthe Young Enterprise team have won awards fortheir business innovation and product. We alsohave a Cheese Appreciation Society, a Film CriticsClub and a Green Environmental Group.

If you are interested in finding out more, a copy ofour enrichment activities guide can be found onour website, or you can pick up a copy at one ofour Open Evenings.


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WHAT ISEXPECTED OF ME?The college day is 9.00am to 4.00pm. During theday you will have subject lessons, timetabledtutorials and private study periods (PSPs).Attendance at lessons is vital because theyprovide the foundation for your learning, whilsttutorial sessions help you build essential skills.

To be an outstanding learner you must useall of the college day effectively.

Outside of formal sessions you manage your ownPSP time. You will need to spend time on reading,homework, coursework and preparing for exams.Students find the relaxed study atmosphereappealing and very different from school. We treatyou as an adult, with respect and, of course, weexpect to be treated in the same way.

We have high expectations of you and want you tosucceed. We work with you to help you to achieveyour goals but you must be committed to workwith us to make this happen.

Many of our students have part time jobs but youmust be aware that you should not work for morethan 10 hours per week. National research showsthat any additional part time work will have anegative effect on your learning and grades.

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Prior Pursglove is a good college with someoutstanding features, but don’t just take ourword for it.

Here’s what our most recent Ofsted report saidabout us following our last inspection:

Good results:

“High success rates on A level

courses and have been for a

number of years”

Here’s what our students like aboutstudying at Prior Pursglove:

The supportive and friendly staff

The high standards of teaching

How much they learn

The friendly atmosphere

The attractive and centrallylocated campus

The wide and varied choice ofcourses

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“Prior Pursglove was the onlyoption for me when consideringwhich college to go to; itprovided all the A levels I wantedto take, and maintained aconsistently high standard ofeducation. The teachers arefriendly and welcoming, andhave provided excellent help withanything I found difficult. Priorprovides a happy, acceptingenvironment for every student.”

Alison Daniels(Ex Freebrough Academy)AS Chemistry, Biology, English Literature,Mathematics

Good teaching:

“The majority of lessons create

a stimulating learning

environment”

Good choice:

“A broad choice of

qualifications offered”Good care, guidance

and support:

“College tutors work effectively to

ensure that students make good

progress”

“Students make an outstanding

contribution to the college and

local community”

Personal tutors

You have your own personal tutor who is able tofocus on your particular needs, giving you help,advice and encouragement to make sure you areprogressing as you should. You meet on a regularbasis to discuss any issues you feel are important.There are subject reviews each year andconsultation evenings for you and your parents todiscuss your progress. You also receive helpthrough the tutorial programme where you meetwith your tutor weekly to gain appropriateknowledge, skills and practical help to guide youthrough your courses, broaden your awarenessand to prepare you for the future.

Careers guidance

Careers guidance is your passport to the future.We have specialist advisors who, together withConnexions and your personal tutor, help youmake the right choice for your future. There is adedicated area in the Resource Centre withinformation and databases on a widerange of careers and universities.You also have the opportunity totake part in careers activities,visits and work experience.

Learning support

In addition to the help you receive from yoursubject teachers and personal tutors, we also offeradditional support when you need it. If you have aspecific learning difficulty or disability ourexperienced team is able to support a range ofdisabilities, for example, dyslexia, dyspraxia,physical disability, visual impairment, hearingimpairment or English as a second language. Thesupport we offer is designed to provide allindividuals with what they need to succeed ontheir chosen course. These may include one-to-one support, British Sign Languagecommunicators, personal care, equipment andresources, assessment and exam arrangements.Additionally, we can offer more practical help inorganisation and time management.


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WHAT SUPPORTIS AVAILABLE?


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Counselling service

Students can sometimes have problems for whichthey need confidential help and support, forexample, personal, stress-related or just need helpto make the right choice. If you have a problem,don’t be afraid to contact our Counsellor for anappointment.

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Financial support

If you are under 19 years of age when you startyour course, you will not normally have to paytuition fees or examination fees on the firstoccasion.

Maintenance grants for Year 11 leavers are nowpaid through a PPC attendance allowance. Fulldetails will be available from the college and onthe college website.

We also have a Learner Support Fund if you areexperiencing financial difficulty which is stoppingyou joining or continuing your course. It isprovided to help towards the cost of travel, books,equipment and visits organised as part of yourcourse. Application forms are available fromStudent Services.

Transport

The college is situated in the centre ofGuisborough and is well served by public

transport. Additionally, college buses operateon numerous designated routes and cost

£1.00 each way. This gives students theflexibility to plan their transport

arrangements around their studies.Further information is available on thecollege website.

Autumn Term

Liaison staff visit many of the schools to speakwith Year 11 pupils about the college.

Thursday October 20th 2011 5.30pm – 8.00pm

First Open EveningYour chance to meet staff and students, tour thecampus, speak to current students, view thefacilities and obtain more detailed informationabout the courses that interest you. If you areunable to attend this event, Course InformationGuides are available for each subject and copiesof these can be found on the college website.

October 2011 – March 2012

Apply early to make sure you get a guaranteedplace at the college. Complete the collegeapplication form which can be found online on ourwebsite at www.pursglove.ac.uk or as a paperbased version in the back of this prospectus.Copies are available in school careers libraries orfrom members of our Schools Liaison team whocan be found at most careers events, or you canring us on 01287 280800 and request a copy fromStudent Services.

November 2011 – April 2012

After we have received your application form, wewill then contact you with an interview date. Alarge number of the interviews are carried out inschools. If this is not possible, then we will inviteyou into college for an interview with one of ourtutors at the end of the college day. Interviewingwill start in the Autumn term. At the interview wewill discuss the subjects in which you areinterested and talk about what college is like.

Taster Sessions

Too many subjects to choose from?Undecided which are the best for you?

Why not come to our Taster Sessions –held during the Autumn term. During thesesessions you will get a feel for the subject,meet the teaching staff and have theopportunity to look at the facilities we offer.

Details of these will be available on thecollege website, in school or ring the collegefor further information.

01287 280800 www.pursglove.ac.ukH

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Prior Pursglove College Full Time Course Guide 2012-2013H

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Thursday March 29th 2011 5.30pm – 7.30pm

Our Second Open EveningAn opportunity if you didn’t attend the earlier eventor to find out about subjects that you missed firsttime around.

May – June 2012

Your final examinations – Good Luck!

Thursday 28th and Friday 29th June 2012

Preview DaysYou will be invited in to college on one of theabove dates to spend a full day with us tofamiliarise yourself with the campus, find out moreabout your potential subjects, meet your teachersand to help prepare the way for a smooth start toyour college career.

August 2012

Exam results! College will be open to provide advice andsupport if you need it.

Late August 2012

Enrolment! At your enrolment interview we will formally enrolyou on your chosen courses, you will join PriorPursglove College and you can look forward to abright future.

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ENROLMENT FORM

Prior Pursglove College Full Time Course Guide 2012-2013En

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Personal details

Surname First name(s)

Address

Postcode

Gender Date of birth

Home telephone Mobile

E-mail

Have you lived in the UK for the last three years? Yes NoIf no, please provide evidence of your residency status

Current school/college

Name of parent(s)/guardian(s)

Address (if different from above)

Courses applied for

Subject Level

For office use only

Date received Entered on CIS

Ethnic origin

White: British Irish other White

Mixed: White & Black Caribbean White & Black African White & Asian other Mixed

Asian or Asian British: Indian Pakistani Bangladeshi other Asian

Black or Black British: Black Caribbean Black African other Black

Chinese or other ethnic group: Chinese other ethnic group

Subject Level

Application for admission to full time courses 2012-13We welcome the involvement of parentsthroughout the time a student is with us.Our college is a partnership which certainlyincludes parents and we hope that they willtake every opportunity to support us in allthat we do here.

Our prime concern is always the wellbeing of ourstudents and the provision of a caring environmentwhich enables them to achieve their best. Weexpect students to accept responsibility for theirown learning and progress. However, this will bedone in the context of support andencouragement to enable each student to reachtheir full potential. Please contact StudentServices for a copy of our Parents Handbook.

Recent comments from parents include;

“Very pleasant welcoming staff. We are veryhappy with all the support my daughter hasreceived. Many thanks.”

“I am very pleased with the staff at the college andfeel they have helped my daughter settle in welland achieve highly.”

“My son is very happy here; and although hehasn't found the jump in pace and workstandard from school to college an easytransition, he has responded well to the adviceand support the teachers have given him andhas definitely upped his game.”

“Pleased with all areas. Staff excellent with studiesand support.”

“I am very happy with the way my son has settledinto college. The staff work hard and ensure heknows how to improve work and are prepared togive further help when necessary. Thank-you.”

“Staff seem genuinely interested in my son'seducation and offered help as appropriate.”

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52Please tear off this completed application form and return to:

Prior Pursglove College, Church Walk, Guisborough TS14 6BU

Do you have a learning difficulty or disability which you wish to draw to our attention? Yes NoIf yes, please give details:

Career aim

Signed Date

Personal interests and achievements

Please use this space to write about yourself, e.g. chances to accept responsibility in or out of school,special interests, sport, art, music, drama, community service, work experience, etc. In particular, relatecomments to the course(s) for which you are applying.

Data Protection Act

Data Protection Act 1998: The college collects information about all of its students for various administrative, academic andhealth and safety reasons. Under the terms of the Data Protection Act 1998 we need your consent to do this. Since we cannotoperate the college effectively without processing information about you, we need you to sign the following consent to processstatement. If you require any further information about this, please contact the Director of Administration.

Consent to Process Information: I agree to Prior Pursglove College processing personal data contained in this form, or other datawhich the college may obtain from me or other people, whilst I am a student. I agree to the processing of such data connectedwith my studies or my health and safety whilst on the premises or for any other legitimate reason.

Subject Level Grade Subject Level Grade

Please list exams to be taken. If already taken, please list grades (if known)Eq

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EQUALOPPORTUNITIESHere at Prior Pursglove College, staff play animportant role in safeguarding the welfare ofour students. The college has a ChildProtection Policy to ensure that the welfare ofthe student is always placed at the centre ofour activities.

We are also aware of our responsibilities under theDisability Discrimination Act. We will make allreasonable adjustments to facilities and services toensure that students with a disability are notsubstantially disadvantaged or treated lessfavourably than other students who are not disabled.

We aim to treat everyone equally and with respect,regardless of differences in culture, ability, race,gender, age, religion, sexual orientation or socialclass. Copies of our Equality and DiversitySchemes are available on our website or can besent out on request. If you would like a copy ofthis prospectus or our schemes in a differentformat or language, please contact StudentServices on 01287 280800.

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RESULTS 2011

Prior Pursglove College Full Time Course Guide 2012-2013Resu

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A Levels A* A B C D E U Total

Accounting 2 8 3 4 2 19Art & Design 9 12 29 32 21 7 110Biology 5 12 24 20 22 11 4 98Business Studies 2 11 12 8 33Chemistry 4 19 14 15 4 12 68Classical Civilisation 3 7 3 3 3 19Computing 1 1 2 2 6Design Technology 3 5 3 11Drama & Theatre Studies 5 5 2 12Economics 1 2 8 14 1 1 27English Language 2 9 16 21 7 1 56English Language & Literature 1 7 18 15 18 6 65English Literature 3 10 9 11 14 47Environmental Studies 1 3 1 1 6Film Studies 4 8 10 9 1 32French 3 3 3 1 10Further Mathematics 4 16 11 3 1 1 36General Studies 3 12 44 79 114 89 35 376Geography 5 10 12 13 17 3 1 61Geology 1 2 3 4 2 1 13German 3 1 1 5Government & Politics 1 4 3 4 2 1 15History 8 7 24 20 6 65ICT 1 4 1 1 7Italian 1 1 2Law 4 23 22 22 17 2 90Mathematics 23 38 29 24 14 17 3 148Media Studies 4 5 14 20 3 46Music 1 2 1 4Music Technology 2 3 5 2 12Philosophy & Ethics 5 3 8 3 5 24Physical Education 4 5 13 5 5 5 1 38Physics 3 11 7 6 6 6 3 42Psychology 4 6 20 23 27 11 91Sociology 2 7 13 23 19 10 1 75Spanish 2 4 1 7Statistics 2 8 10 4 4 2 30

Applied A2 (Single) A* A B C D E U Total

Business 1 5 18 3 2 29Health & Social Care 1 5 18 24 12 3 1 64ICT 3 3 6 5 2 19Performing Arts 2 5 3 7 3 20Science 1 1 1 3Travel & Tourism 7 2 1 10

Applied A2 (Double) *A AA AB BB BC CC CD DD DE EE U Total

Business 1 1 1 3Health & Social Care 1 3 4 1 7 4 2 3 4 29ICT 1 1 2Travel & Tourism 1 1 2

BTEC National Diploma DDD DDM DMM MMM MMP MPP PPP Total

Art & Design 2 1 2 1 1 7Performing Arts 8 8Sport 8 1 4 13

BTEC National Award DS ME PA FL Total

Applied Law 13 2 1 16Personal & Business Finance 1 1 2

OCR National Diploma DS ME PA FL Total

Media 6 2 2 10

We are the best college inthe area for getting studentsa place at university.

99%A Levelpass rate

In the top 7% in the country. Sutton Trust Report, 2011

01287 280800 students’ union

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