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AS and A Level Art Edexcel
Who should consider studying this course? If you are considering studying an Arts & Design degree at University you will need ‘A’ Level Art.
What units are studied and how are they assessed? The AS course is divided into two units Unit One: Coursework (60% of the total AS marks / 30% of the total ‘A’ level marks) Students have opportunities to generate ideas and can research from primary and contextual sources, record their findings, experiment with media and processes and develop and refine their ideas towards producing outcomes. Students review their progress at appropriate points in the development of their work. Unit Two: Externally set assignment (40% of the total AS marks / 20% of the total ‘A’ level marks) Students work from a set theme, which offers a wide range of inter-pretations. Students will prepare a body of work on a supervised time-scale. The A2 course is divided into two units Unit Three: Coursework (60% of the total A2 marks / 30% of the total ‘A’ level marks) Students have opportunities to generate ideas and can research from primary and contextual sources, record their findings, experiment with media and processes and develop and refine their ideas towards producing outcomes. Students review their progress at
Student Comment: There is a calm, relaxed but fo-cused atmosphere in the art room that allows us to work crea-tively and independently, whilst still receiving help and guidance’. Jess, Year 13
Photo here No Clip Art please and photos of recent KRS students working
Frequently asked questions and future careers
How will the work be assessed? All work is internally marked and externally moderated by an Edexcel visiting moderator to the centre. What can studying Art at A Level lead to? You can go on to study Art & Design at Foundation Diploma level after ‘A’ Level. This in turn can lead on to a BA (Hons) in your chosen discipline area. What career can I do with an Art degree? There are a myriad of careers in the Creative Arts industry - such as: Art Historian, Art Critic, Arts Administra-tor, Fashion Designer, Costume Designer, Advertising Di-rector, Sign Writer, Packaging Director, Stage Designer, Advertising Photographer, Photo Journalist, Animator, Concept Artist, Art Teacher ….and many more.
For more information contact: Mr Westall at [email protected]
Biology Edexcel
Who should consider studying this course? Anyone interested in the new and exciting fields of Biology and an interest in everything living
What units are studied and how are they as-
sessed? The course covers eight themes and a science practical endorsement. Topic 1: Lifestyle, Health and Risk Topic 2: Genes and Health Topic 3: Voice of the genome Topic 4: Biodiversity and Natural Resources Topic 5: On the wild side Topic 6: Immunity, Infection and Forensics Topic 7: Run for your life Topic 8: Grey matter The Advanced Subsidiary is the first half of the GCE qualification and assesses Topics 1-4. The full advanced GCE qualification is as-sessed separately through three two hour written papers and a sepa-rate practical science endorsement. Papers include multiple-choice, short open, open-response, calculations and extended writing ques-tions with at least 10% of the marks awarded for mathematics. There is less emphasis on recall and more on understanding and application
The biology department at KRS offers everything a keen budding scientist could want. Fantastic staff and engaging lessons. I was always challenged to realise and manifest my potential. Stewart Innes
Frequently asked questions and
future careers Biology is a natural fit with the science and health sectors and provides wide-ranging skills including communication and problem solving. Around 1 in 10 biology graduates work as laboratory technicians, biochemists and medical scientists Biology-related jobs are particularly competitive, so it is valuable, and sometimes crucial, to gain practical experi-ence in the field. This demonstrates your commitment to the career area and knowledge of what is involved. At KRS you will have the opportunity to supplement your Biol-ogy training with an Extended Project qualification based on a topic of interest for an in-depth study. Students should preferable achieve a ‘C’ or above in Sci-ence or additional Science in GCSE. You need basis un-derstanding of Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics.
For more information contact Mr Grimes at
Chemistry AS and A-Level AQA 7404 and 7405
Who should consider studying this course?People who enjoy Chemistry at
GCSE. You should have achieved at least a ’B’ grade for Science A GCSE and be predicted at least a ’B’ grade for additional Science or the Chemistry components of triple Science. If you enjoy doing practical experiments that will be a distinct advantage.
What units are studied and how are they assessed? Physical Chemistry At AS level we study the mole, amount of substance, energetics, kinetics, chemical equilibria and Le Chatelier’s principle and redox equations, In the second year we study thermodynamics, rate equations, the equilibrium constant, electrochemistry and acids and bases.
Organic Chemistry For AS we study basic Organic Chemistry, the alkanes, halogenoalkanes, alkenes, alcohols and organic analysis. In the second year we go on to study optical isomerism, aldehydes and ke-tones and carboxylic acids and their derivatives.
Inorganic Chemistry At AS we study periodicity, the alkaline earth metals and the halogens. In the second year we study period 3 elements and their oxides, the transition metals and ions in aqueous solution.
Assessment There are three exams at the end of the two years for A-level, all of which are two hours long. At least 15% of the exams for A-level Chemistry are based on 12 Core Practical experiments done throughout the course. The AS has two exams at the end of the year. Both are 1 hour 30 minutes long. There will also be approximately 20% calculations and numeracy content in all exams.
Student Comment: “The A-Level Chemistry course is very practical. There are am-ple opportunities to develop your practical abilities in class. It is always interesting! Ellie Y12
Frequently asked questions and
future careers What grades do I need at GCSE? At least a B in
GCSE Sciences and a B or above in Mathematics would be advantageous.
I am not sure what I want to do, why should I study Chemistry? Chemistry is one of the most respected ‘A’ levels and develops essential skills like logical analytical thinking, practical skills, report writing, nu-meracy and literacy and many more.
Do I need a Chemistry ’A’ level? Potential careers include analytical chemist, chemical engineer, Doc-tor, Nurse, Forensic Scientist, vet etc. More details can be found at http://www.futuremorph.org/14-16/next-steps/follow-your-favourite-subject/careers-from-chemistry/do-i-need-chemistry-to/.
For more information contact Mrs Panayi at
AS/A2 English Literature AQA B English Literature
Who should consider studying this course? English literature students are en-
gaged with the world around them: they question, they explore, they discuss. Good literature students enjoy reading, film, history, and current affairs. For those students who engaged with the depth and detail of English GCSE study, this is the course for them: GCSE B grade or above (in literature or language) is preferred.
What units are studied and how are they as-
sessed?
The new AS and A Level are mostly assessed by exam. A2 students complete all their exams (for both Y12 and Y13 study) at the end of Year 13. For the A2, students study a wide range of: Shakespeare, modern drama, modern prose and traditional and modern poetry
In Y12, the focus is on genre (either tragedy or comedy) and in Y13 there is the opportunity to study classic texts related to political and social writing. Assessment is by two exams, each worth 40% of the final grade. Each exam explores readings and interpretations of three texts (so six texts in total). Finally, in Y13 students produce two coursework projects engaging with critical theory and/or applying a more creative approach by pro-ducing texts within a literary genre.
Student Comment: “English Literature is a subject that
is not only extremely interesting, but
also fun.” Ellie
”English enabled me to access parts
of my conscious that would have
previously been lost and forgotten.”
Frans
Frequently asked questions and
future careers We encourage all students to opt for the full A2, and we can discuss individual requests to follow the one-year AS study. If completing the AS, students sit two exams at the end of Y12 with a focus on a literary genre: either tragedy or comedy. The texts range from classical drama such as Shakespeare, through to more modern writers such as Fitzgerald and Hardy. English Literature is seen as a ‘traditional’ academic sub-ject, therefore the A Level is respected and valued glob-ally. English literature is warmly welcomed by university and college courses which draw on communication and interpretation skills: law, history, politics, philosophy, psy-chology, theology, sociology, art and other design-related subjects. Further, because advanced study in English develops and refines your discussion, composi-tion and interpretative skills, it lends itself very well to careers in marketing, media, business, law and educa-tion.
For more information contact Mr Purdie at
AS and A2 Geography AQA
Who should consider studying this course? Anyone with an interest in the world around them who has a C or above at GCSE English.
What units are studied and how are they assessed?
Geography – AS and A2 A level Geography is a well respected aca-demic qualification good for further education and employment. We have a great uptake of AS & A2 Geography currently with really enjoy-able active lessons. We use the location of ‘King Richard School’ to advantage of visiting; local coast lines, rivers in the Troodos moun-tains, private hospitals, nature reserves, indoor shopping malls and the worlds leading eco recycling centre in Nicosia. We are also plan-ning to travel abroad for our A2 coursework to complete a study on regenerating world cities. Geography requires many skills such as the ability to understand and use graphs and maps to spot patterns and to be able to write clearly at length, but most importantly to have an interest in the physical and human world around you… Course Requirements: Preferably ‘C’ or above in English and Geogra-phy at GCSE, but all students will be considered and given a 6 week trial. Course Examination: AS and A2 = 2 exams; one on subjects taught in class the other based on our fieldwork and graph and mapping skills.
Student Comment: I love Geography because it al-most feels like it is not a lesson but we do really well and enjoy it and thats what makes me want to do more of it! Courtney Nicod, Y12
Frequently asked questions and
future careers Future Careers in Geography: Careers: almost any - Geography gives you skills and knowledge applicable to almost any future career path...
For more information contact Mr Burvill at
Pearson Edexcel Level 3 BTEC Health and Social Care
Who should consider studying this course? Students who are considering a career in health care, social care or education and enjoy working as part of a team. Students should have at least a Grade C in English and 5 GCSEs A* to C
What units are studied and how are they assessed? The Units studied include: Unit 1– Developing Effective Communication in Health and Social Care– developing interpersonal skills that promote positive outcomes in the workplace Unit 2– Equality, Diversity and Rights in Health and Social Care– looking at legislation and expectations for the deliverers and recipients of care and the management of rights and responsibilities Unit 3– Health, Safety and Security in Health and Social Care– ex-ploring legislation, policies and procedures, gaining an understanding of the purpose of risk analysis and how to deal with a range of incidents that may arise in the care sector Unit 4- Development Through the Life Stages– the physical and psy-chological changes of aging and the impact of each life stage on the Health and Social Care sector Unit 10– Caring for Children and Young People– the needs of chil-dren and young people, the risks they may face from their own behav-iour and that of others and the role of safeguarding Unit 11– Safeguarding Adults and Promoting Independence– under-standing the different types of abuse an adult may face and how their rights, wellbeing and independence can be promoted Assessments– Assignment and evidence based, including the record-ing of mixed media evidence, and placement mentor feedback
Frequently asked questions and
future careers Does this subject require work experience? Yes, the course will involve a placement in a care setting (e.g. a primary school) where you will be observed and assessed as a part of the course How often will I be assessed? The assessment is rigorous as the student builds up a portfolio of assignments and evidence, both written and recorded on photograph and video, that demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the skills and theories associated with the Health and Social Care Sector What career can this course lead to? This can support a career in many sectors. This may in-clude care healthcare, social work, education, manage-ment and other communication based careers such as sales, marketing and policing
For more information contact: Julian Downham at
AS and A Level History Edexcel
Who should consider studying this course? If you are considering studying History, a social science, Law then History is very useful
What units are studied and how are they as-
sessed? The new A-level course is divided into three themes Theme 1—Germany and West Germany 1918-90 We analyse Germany from the end of WW1 to the fall of the Berlin Wall. The module is examined by two breadth essays and an interpre-tations question. Theme 2—Spain 1930–78: republicanism, Francoism and the re-establishment of democracy Follow Spain through from the Republican democracy of the 1930’s. The Spanish Civil War and the resultant Francoist dictatorship. The course ends with the democracy that followed Franco’s death. This module will examine source analysis as well as a depth essay. Theme 3—Rebellion and disorder under the Tudors, 1485–1603 We study the Tudor monarchy from after the battle of Bosworth Field to the death of Queen Elizabeth focusing on disorder and rebellion during the period. This module must cover a period spanning at least one hundred years. Examination for this module is by one source
Student Comment: History at this school inspires not only you but also prepares you for the rigours of University. From the storming of Kronstadt to the desperate Spartacus up-rising, there is rarely a dull les-son. Stewart Innes, Year 13.
Frequently asked questions and
future careers
How will the work be assessed? Assessment is by external examination at the end of the two year course. What can studying Art at A Level lead to? The transferrable skills intrinsic in the study of History mean that it has uses in many fields. Obviously further study in History is available as well as opportunities to study a number of further subjects including politics, law and social sciences What career can I do with an Art degree? These are too numerous in number to fit in this space but could include Historian, careers in education, civil service, lawyer, politics, curator, journalism.
For more information contact:
Mr Sproson at [email protected]
Cambridge Technicals IT Level 3 OCR
Who should consider studying this course?
Those pupils who wish to prepare for further learning or training or to develop the essential knowledge of IT in the real world.
What units are studied and how are they as-
sessed?
These qualifications and units are in the Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF). They have been structured to enable learners to gain qualifications at their own pace and build on their achievements and they deliver UCAS points. Consists of 6 equally weighted Units, with 2 mandatory Units on
the use of Information With over 40 Optional Units available students have a wide
choice to study including hardware, software and online Includes practical activities in all units - learn, do, review Develops transferable skills for the workplace or future studies
Each unit we do is intriguing, I learn something new every les-son. Before I started this course I barely knew much about com-puters or there uses. Now I know a lot more and hope to carry on computing in University.—Courtney Nicod
Frequently asked questions and
future careers Learners will also have the opportunity to acquire the es-sential knowledge and tools for the world of work by devel-oping transferable skills such as planning, research and analysis, working with others and effective communication.
For more information contact Mr Murphy at
GCE Mathematics Edexcel Level 3 AS (8371) & A2 (9371)
Who should consider studying this course? A level Mathematics is quite a different from GCSE. Students need to be able to deal with a high level of abstraction and a facility with algebraic techniques is essential. The entry level for this course this course is a GCSE grade B, although we would prefer a grade A, as those with a B grade tend to find this course challenging.
What units are studied and how are they assessed? The course involves six modules in total, based upon Pure and Applied Mathematics. Each module is a written examination of 1hr. 30 min. AS Mathematics consists of : C1 Pure Mathematics Core 1 C2 Pure Mathematics Core 2 D1 Decision Mathematics 1 or M1 Mechanics 1 or S1 Statistics 1 A2 Mathematics studies a further three modules C3 Pure Mathematics Core 3 C4 Pure Mathematics Core 4 D1 Decision Mathematics 1 or M1 Mechanics 1 or S1 Statistics 1 The Pure Mathematics modules build on the work you will have met at GCSE and extend topics such as algebra and trigonometry as well as intro-ducing calculus which enables us to study curves in greater detail. Decision Mathematics solves problems such as shortest paths, sorting methods, linear programming and Matchings. Mechanics includes such topics as vectors, acceleration, velocity, distance, Newton’s Laws and projectiles. Statistics extends the topics of data presentation, probability and sampling methods.
Student Comment: I enjoy the satisfaction of com-pleting a really difficult mathe-matics problem and seeing that I got everything correct. Jordan Year 13
Frequently asked questions and
future careers Mathematics opens up a wide range of possibilities, both in terms of courses using, or depending upon Mathematics at university, and in terms of career prospects. Mathemat-ics at A level opens the door to many opportunities. Anyone intending to take Mathematics, Physics or Engi-neering at a higher level will find this qualification essential for acceptance.
For more information contact Mr. S. Peters at
Further Mathematics GCE Edexcel AS (8372) A2 (9372)
Who should consider studying this course? Students must have at least an A grade at GCSE (ideally A*) and have chosen to study Mathe-matics A level. Please also note that Further Mathematics is a course for able and committed mathematicians. You must be prepared to have a significant part of your 6th Form timetable de-voted to mathematics. People who study Further Maths should enjoy mathematics for its own sake.
What units are studied and how are they assessed? Further Mathematics is an A Level in its own right. Although some of the maths you would study is complex and demanding, generally Further Maths means “More Maths” and not necessarily “Harder Maths”. Further Maths A Level is an opportunity to deepen your knowledge and under-standing of topics you are already familiar with as well as an opportunity to study different areas of Mathematical importance. Students would normally complete both their Maths AS and Further Maths AS levels in Year 12. They would then choose whether to continue with both or only continue with Mathematics. If both, they would then complete their Maths A level and Further Mathematics A level in Year 13. The most likely modules would be: Y12 Further Pure Mathematics 1 (compulsory for AS and A level) plus Mechanics1 and 2. Y13 Further Pure Mathematics 2 & 3 (one or other of these is compulsory for A level) plus
Statistics S1 and S2 or Decision 1
Student Comment: This is a very demanding course especially the time I have to put in to it to cover all the modules. James
Frequently asked questions and
future careers The combination of Mathematics and Further Mathematics is excellent preparation for many future courses and ca-reers. Such a demanding and logical discipline as mathe-matics, studied in such depth, supports all forms of engi-neering, physics, analytical work in business and industry as well as courses in Law, philosophy, economics and fi-nance. If you are considering a degree in mathematics or a related subject, or are considering applying to Oxford, Cambridge or Imperial College to study a mathematical discipline then a qualification in Further Mathematics will be a real advantage. Certain high demand courses at oth-er universities (in subjects such as engineering) will also prefer students who have studied Further Mathematics.
For more information contact Mr. S. Peters at
GCE French and German Edexcel
Who should consider studying this course? This course is most suitable for those who have achieved Grade A / A* in GCSE French or German.
What units are studied and how are they as-
sessed? A-Level Topics include: Youth Culture and Concerns (Music and Fashion, Technology,
Relationships, Alcohol, Drugs.) Lifestyle: Health and Fitness (Sport & Exercise, Food & Diet, Health
Issues.) The World Around Us (Travel, Tourism, Environmental Issues.) Education and Employment (Schools, Student Issues, The World of
Work.) Assessment: AS (End of Year 12) Speaking Exam (Conducted by Class Teacher) – 30% of AS
Marks. Listening, Reading and Writing Exam (2 ½ hours) – 70% of AS
Marks. A2 (End of Year 13) Speaking Exam (Conducted by Class Teacher) – 35% of A2
Marks.
Student Comment: “The most interesting thing about studying A-Level German is learning about topics in much more depth than at GCSE. For example I have learned about European politics and German history.” Jordan Maliska, Y13.
Frequently Asked Questions and
Future Careers What are the aims of the course? To develop students’ enthusiasm for language learning, promote cultural awareness and produce effective communicators in the target language. What are the benefits of learning a foreign language? Not only will language skills increase your enjoyment of holidays abroad, you will improve your employability. There are a wide range of career opportunities for those who have studied languages. For example? Translating Interpreting Armed Forces Teaching Retail and Wholesale Journalism Health & Social Work Hotels & Restaurants Engineering Travel and Tourism In fact, practically any profession could involve languages!
For more information contact Mr J Pointon at
AS/A Level Music Edexcel
Who should consider studying this course? Students who are interested in de-
veloping their musical performance, composition and listening skills. You should have at least Grade 5 on one instrument and have at least a C grade at GCSE Music.
What units are studied and how are they as-
sessed? AS Level Music consists of the following areas: Unit 1: Performing Music A 5-6 minute assessed performance on an instrument/voice of your choice (30%) Unit 2: Composing The creation of a 3-minute piece of music in response to a chosen brief. Stu-dents also write a CD sleeve note to describe aspects of their compositions. (30%) Unit 3: Developing Musical Focuses on listening to familiar music from a wide range of genres and learn-ing how it works. There is a 2 hour examination for this unit. (40%) A2 Level Music consists of the following: Unit 4: Extended Performance A 12-15 minute assessed performance on an instrument/voice of your choice. (15%) Unit 5: Composition & Technical There is a choice between creating 2 original compositions (according to briefs set by the examination board) or 2 technical studies (harmony and counterpoint) or 1 composition and 1 technical study. (15%) Unit 6: Further Musical Understanding Focuses on listening to familiar and unfamiliar music from a wide range of
Student Comment: King Richard School Music De-partment has limitless opportuni-ties for developing your skills in all areas of Music. Suzie Richter, Year 12 Student.
Frequently asked questions and
future careers Will there be performance opportunities?: There are
many opportunities for performances throughout the
school year, from performing in assemblies to the Spring
Concert and Summer Music Recital.
Will I get support in developing my practical music
skills?: Lessons on a wide variety of different instruments
are available through Cyprus Music Service who teach
weekly at King Richard School.
What can studying A Level Music lead to? Most stu-
dents go on to read Music at a University or train to be a pro-
fessional performer. Music A Level is also a useful academic
course for entry to most degree courses.
For more information contact Miss C Thorpe at
BTEC Level 3 Music/Music Technology (Production) Edexcel
Who should consider studying this course? Students who are interested in de-
veloping their music performance and or music technology skills and learn about the different areas of the Music Industry.
What units are studied and how are they as-
sessed? Subsidiary Diploma Over two years you will study 6 units. These units are: Music (Performing) Music Performance Techniques Solo Performance Skills Working and Developing as a Musical Ensemble Special Subject Investigation Marketing and Promotion in the Music Industry Music Project Music Technology (Production) Music Production Techniques Sequencing Systems and Techniques Music Technology in Performance Special Subject Investigation Marketing and Promotion in the Music Industry Delivering a Music Project There are no external exams for the course. All work is marked and moderated internally and sent for
Student Comment: The Music Department has lots of facilities for students to be able to develop their Music or Music Technology skills including a iMacs and a recording studio. Answar Hewett, Year 13 Student
Frequently asked questions and
future careers Will there be performance opportunities?: There are
many opportunities for performances throughout the
school year, from performing in assemblies to the Spring
Concert and Summer Music Recital.
How is BTEC Music work marked? You will be graded a
Pass, Merit or Distinction for each piece of work you sub-
mit. You will get an overall Pass, Merit or Distinction grade
for the BTEC.
What can studying BTEC Music lead to? Previous KRS
students have gone on to University to study Music and Mu-
sic Technology. It also is useful for careers in the music in-
dustry or performing arts.
For more information contact Miss C Thorpe at
Physics AQA
Who should consider studying this course? Do you want a challenge? Do you want to be a critical thinker? Then Physics is for you!!
What units are studied and how are they as-
sessed? The course covers eight compulsory themes and a science practical endorsement: 1. Measurements and their errors 2. Particles and radiation 3. Waves 4. Mechanics and materials 5. Electricity 6. Thermal physics 7. Fields and their consequences 8. Nuclear physics 9. The Advanced Subsidiary is the first half of the GCE qualification and assesses Topics 1-5. The full advanced GCE qualification is as-sessed separately through three two hour written papers and a sepa-rate practical science endorsement. Papers include multiple-choice, short open, open-response, calculations and extended writing ques-tions. Students choose five optional topics as part of the full A-level course so they can focus on their areas of interest They choose be-
Student Comment: The Physics A-level course can be very challenging at times but with small classes help is always there Leah Bryant
Frequently asked questions and
future careers A physics degree sets you up well for research-based roles and positions in other sciences, it is also useful for careers in business, finance, IT and engineering Industries employing physicists are varied and include aer-ospace and defence, education, energy, engineering, in-strumentation, manufacturing, oil and gas and science and telecommunications. At KRS you will have the opportunity to supplement your Physics training with an Extended Project qualification based on a topic of interest for an in-depth study. A-level physics builds on the concepts and skills devel-oped in Physics GCSE and is particularly suitable for stu-dents who have the skills and knowledge associated with a GCSE Additional Science course or equivalent.
For more information contact Mr Reid at
Design and Technology: Product Design (3D) AQA (2550)
A Level Product Design builds on the knowledge and skills developed during GCSE Resistant Materials, Graphic Products and Product design. Pupils will need to be able to present and ex-plain complex design ideas graphically and with detailed explanations. Whether you wish to pur-sue a career in design or engineering or just want to be a more informed and discerning consum-er and user of products, this course gives a great grounding in technical and creative problem solving.
What units are studied and how are they as-
sessed? AS Examinations
Unit 1 – PROD1 Materials, Components and Application 50% of AS, 25% of A Level 2 hour written paper 80 marks Based primarily on Materials and
Components Unit 2 – PROD2 Learning Through Designing and Making 50%
of AS, 25% of A Level Coursework – approx 50 hours 80 marks Written (or electronic) design portfolio Manufactured outcome(s) A Level Examinations
Unit 3 – PROD3 Design and Manufacture 25% of A Level 2 hour written paper 84 marks Based primarily on Design and
Manufacture Unit 4 – PROD4 Design and Making Practice 25% of A Level
Coursework – approx 60 hours 85 marks Written (or electronic) design folder Manufactured
Student Comment: I really like that it’s a practical subject . You are not just sat down reading and writing the whole time. It’s great that I get my hands dirty and I can see how everyday products come about. Chris Yr12
Frequently asked questions and
future careers Product Design is a course that is all about problem solv-ing and as such will help you gain access to a wide range of future studies and exciting careers. Whether you want to go into manufacturing, construction, ICT and web de-sign or just be a more discerning user of well designed products. 1. Do I need to have a GCSE in DT?
It helps a lot if you have, but it would not preclude you from taking the course as long as you have some of the requisite skills.
2.Is there a lot of written work? There is a requirement to submit several substantial port-folios that require clear explanations of your design work. At A2 you will be expected to provide essay style ques-tions in the exam.
3.Do I need to be artistic? You do need to be able to communicate your ideas graphically but we will give you strategies that will make this much easier to achieve.
For more information contact Mr Balmer at
BTEC Level 2 Diploma in Public
Services (Uniformed)
This course is for students wanting a career in the Police, Army, Navy, Royal Air Force, Royal Marines, Fire and Rescue Services. This course is the equivalent of four GCSEs grade C or above. Students can progression onto the Level 3 courses and then onto Higher Education.
What units are studied and how are they as-
sessed? You will be assessed through a range of practical activities, projects,
short tasks and presentations as well as written work-based assign-
ments to test knowledge, skills and understanding.
You will study a range of units from the following: Public service skills Employment in the uniformed public services Career planning in the public services Improving health and fitness for entry into the public services Adventurous activities Expedition and Land navigation Map and
Compass skills
Frequently asked questions and
future careers Features/Benefits In addition to the Level 2 Diploma in Public Services you will also have the opportunity to work towards achieving GCSE Math's and English and Volunteering. Opportunity to visit Public Service Organisations You will gain knowledge of the industry such as from visit-ing guest speakers and the opportunity to take part in team building activities. Entry Requirements BTEC Level 1 Certificate and/or Diploma at merit level and
appropriate Functional Skills qualifications in Maths or
English. OR A general education equivalent to four
GCSEs at grade D or above (including Maths and Eng-
lish). OR Other related Level 1 or 2 qualifications.
For more information contact Mr Philip McGilton at
Introduction to Quantitative Methods OCR
Who should consider studying this course? Students that wish to pursue a career in science, but don’t want to take Maths at A-level.
What units are studied and how are they as-
sessed? The course is for students who study Science but do not wish to pursue maths as a subject. It gives students the mathemat-ical skills to tackle problems in a variety of different real and realistic contexts. The focus is to meet the demand for mathe-matics in other areas of science. Students follow a 60-guided learning hour unit, and obtain a Level 3 Certificate. Students are taught to use the following mathematical tools a modelling cycle, a statistical problem-solving cycle and a financial problem-solving cycle. The use of technology – in particular, spreadsheets – is an integral part of the course. The unit in this specification is assessed by a 1½ hour unit examination. In addition, the unit has a coursework require-ment worth 20% of the overall marks.
Frequently asked questions and
future careers This course is designed to support students with their mathe-matical needs in other subjects, as well as for employment and everyday life. In particular, it provides support for subjects such as Biology, Business Studies, Chemistry, Computer Science, Economics, Geography, ICT and Psychology. It does not contain any calculus and does not support the mathematical needs of students go-ing on to study Mathematics, Engineering or the Physical Sci-ences. You learn how to conduct surveys and how to use mathematics and statistics in your subjects. Students are expected to have achieved at least grade ‘C’ in GCSE Mathematics,
For more information contact Irene Panayi at
WJEC Religious Studies Contemporary Society & Ethics
Who should consider studying this course? WJEC GCE Religious Studies is an
exciting and engaging course that allows students to explore individual, moral, ethical, social,
What units are studied and how are they as-
sessed? What will I actually study?
Paper 1 Religion & Contemporary Society 1¼ hour written paper (May) Medical and Environmental Issues: religious responses to euthana-sia and animal rights Religion and the Community: secularisation , fundamentalism and new religious movements
Paper 2 Ethical Theory
1¼ hour written paper (May) Natural law : Christian approach to moral decision making based on theory by Thomas Aquinas Situation Ethics : Christian approach to moral decision making
Student Comment: Philosophy and Ethics is a great subject to take . you tackle cur-rent events and debates that are taking places around the world. Philosophy and Ethics is an amazing and enriching subject to study and I would recommend it to all. Aaron Semple Year 12.
Frequently asked questions and
future careers Is this course for me? There is no opportunity for coursework or practical demonstration so it is best that you comfortable writing a large amount under ex-am conditions. RS is a subject that is growing in popularity nationally and is recognised by all universities as a rigorous academic subject that requires commitment and a wide range of key skills. The focus on independent thinking makes it espe-cially appealing to demanding university courses. Employers are also increasingly recognising Religious Studies as an indicator of ability to think in depth and eval-uate different worldviews with respect and understanding. As a result, it is an excellent qualification to consider if you intend to work in Law, the Armed Forces, Medicine, Phar-maceuticals, Diplomacy, and Civil Service, the Police or any kind of career that involves dealing with a diverse group of people or ethical issues of a controversial nature.
For more information contact Mrs C. Downham at
BTEC LEVEL 3 Subsidiary in Sport
Who should consider studying this course? The award is suitable for students who enjoy sport but do not want to specialise totally in one area. You will need to have an enthusiasm for sport, although there is very little practical content, and an interest in the broader aspects of sport and leisure. The full Subsidiary Diploma carries a maximum of 120 UCAS points.
What units are studied and how are they as-
sessed?
In the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma in Sport you will study 7 units, covering a range of topics. These will be: Assessing Risk in Sport The Physiology of Fitness Fitness Testing for Sport & Exercise Anatomy and Physiology in Sport Health Fitness and exercise Current Issues in Sport
Student Comment: BTEC Sport is an interesting course which covers a wide range of different sporting content. It involves a lot of theory and computer based work.—Daniel Hadden
Frequently asked questions and
future careers How will I be assessed? The BTEC Subsidiary Diploma is 100% coursework as-sessed and may include portfolio work - there are no ex-ams. Projects are submitted for marking on a regular basis throughout the course. They are assessed internally by your teachers and then moderated by the board. Work is graded and written feedback provided enabling students to gauge how well they are doing on the course. Feedback will help you to see the strengths of your work, as well as allowing you to reflect on areas which can be developed further. Your work will be graded pass, merit or distinction. What are the entry requirements? Students studying a BTEC Subsidiary Diploma programme will have achieved 5 GCSE at C or above and have achieved at least a Grade C in Maths and/or English. A GCSE grade C or better in Science and PE would be a distinct advantage but not essential.
For more information contact Mr C Thomas at
A Level Textiles Design - Edexcel
Who should consider studying this course? A Level Textile Design is a dynamic and exciting subject area that will appeal to students who are interested in fashion, textiles, costume and interiors. This course enables you to develop your crea-tivity in textiles and fashion, allowing you to experiment with many different processes such as free-hand machine embroidery and fabric printing, whilst building a portfolio of work that will enable you develop your skills as a designer.
General entry requirements and the following facilitating subjects at grade C or above: GCSE Tex-
tiles or GCSE Art., or a personal portfolio to GCSE standard.
What units are studied and how are they assessed?
The course is 100% coursework, consisting of two units at AS and
two units at A2. AS Level Unit 1, ‘Coursework Portfolio’ - portfolio of practical
work 30% AS Level Unit 2 ‘Controlled Assignment’ 20% - externally set 8
hour practical work A2 Level Unit 3 ‘Personal Investigation’ 30% - portfolio of
practical work plus 1000 word essay A2 Level Unit 4 ‘Controlled Assignment’ 20% - externally set
12 hour practical work This course will provide you with the exciting opportunity to explore contemporary textiles practice and develop an awareness of both traditional and new textile technologies. You will explore a wide range of experiences and opportunities to bring out your interests and motivations and to encourage the development of strong per-sonal qualities in your textiles work. Your sketchbook will be an im-portant resource in which to document and expand on your creative ideas.
Student Comment: I wasn’t sure if I would enjoy Textiles as I didn’t take it at GCSE, but I really enjoy it. The work is very hands on. I’ve en-joyed trying something com-pletely new its great if your cre-ative. Chris Innes
Frequently asked questions and future careers A Level Textiles combines effectively with other subject areas and enables students to apply for a range of degree subjects. There will be opportunities to specialise in this wide ranging sub-ject area and you will have the chance to produce outcomes in an area that interests you. Alternatively, students may consider direct entry into employ-ment or further training. Students choose to study Textile Design at A-level for many rea-sons. They may have a particular career path they wish to fol-low, such as Fashion Designer, Fashion Buyer, Textile Design-er, Interior Designer, Fashion Magazine editor, Stylist, or any aspect of the creative industries. Many students choose A-level Textile Design because they enjoy the subject and it offers a welcome balance with their other A-level subjects.
For more information contact Mrs E. Andrew at [email protected]
Student Comment: I did GCSE textiles and want-ed to carry on to do the A 'Level, as I absolutely love the subject and wanted to continue exploring creative techniques. The subject has exceeded my expectations. Becca Murphy.
