banbridge high school post 16 prospectus · • study three a-level/btec l3 subjects over two...

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‘leading to success’

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Banbridge High School

Post 16 Prospectus

Post 16 at Banbridge High School Banbridge High School has offered Post 16 courses for over twenty years. Building on a foundation of

vocational courses, our school now offers an extensive range of GCE A Level and BTEC Level 3

Qualifications, as well as a choice of two pathways: the customary two year pathway or the two year

vocational pathway. Our aim is to equip students with the qualifications, skills and capabilities to allow

them to progress to further or higher education, or employment.

Our school motto is ‘leading to success’. To help sixth form students to achieve, our provision includes:

high quality teaching;

dedicated and caring staff;

regular meetings with an assigned Mentor;

careers guidance and work placement;

extra-curricular activities;

links with our local businesses and community;

a range of vocational and academic courses;

a strong support network including a professional counsellor;

shared links with our local schools.

We promote close links between parents and the school. Parents are most welcome to contact us at any

time to discuss their child’s progress. Parents will receive a school report in Term 2. We also encourage

parents to attend our sixth form parent’s afternoon.

Mentoring

In order to support learning targeted students participate in mentoring with a designated member of staff, who will speak to them regularly, to review and discuss their progress towards reaching their academic potential. Records of each meeting are kept in the Student Planner and targets are set for each term. The meetings will allow time to reflect on the student’s successes and to identify any areas for improvement. The mentor will discuss how the student can implement effective study habits, learning and exam techniques. All students have a dedicated Form Tutor who works with them on goal-setting, learning review and planning in weekly form class sessions.

Careers Guidance

Careers guidance plays a vital role in helping our students plan for their future. This guidance includes:

timetabled careers classes;

work placement (Year 13);

attendance at university open days;

visits from a range of colleges and universities;

mock interviews;

guidance and support with UCAS applications;

regular guidance from a Careers Service NI Advisor.

Enrichment Extending the experience of our Post 16 students We also aim to provide a range of activities and opportunities to help to broaden our pupils’ experience and help them develop new skills. This provision includes:

a comprehensive induction programme

an activity day

educational visits

physical education

work placement

standing for election on our School Council

mentoring pupils in the junior school

applying to role of Senior Prefect.

Extra-Curricular Activities A wide range of activities are offered within the school. Post 16 students are encouraged to pursue their own interests. This can include a favourite sport or attending music/ singing lessons or taking part in a dramatic performance. Students can take a leadership role in an activity, Scripture Union or sports coaching, for example

School Uniform

Girls

Skirt – Grey ‘A’ line with two box pleats

White blouse

Sixth Form school tie

Black jumper (optional)

Black blazer with school badge

Black tights

Flat black shoes

Boys

White shirt

Sixth Form school tie

Black jumper (optional)

Dark grey trousers

Black blazer with school badge

Grey socks

Black shoes

Pathways

Customary Pathway

• Study three A-Level/BTEC L3 subjects over two years.

• Repeat GCSE English/Mathematics if needed.

Vocational Pathway

• Study two/three A-Level/BTEC L3 subjects over two years:

Year 1 Study two AS-Level subjects and a work-based placement, including BTEC L3 Public Services

Year 2 Complete two A2-Level subjects and complete a work placement project

*Repeat GCSE English and Mathematics if needed*

Entry Requirements

Students can gain entry to the Customary Pathway (Two Year) with a minimum of 8 points over at least 5

subjects (not including Occupational Studies). Some of the subjects require at least a B at GCSE level to

continue to study at ‘A’ level. Students should have at least a C in English AND/OR Maths.

Students can gain entry to the Vocational Pathway by achieving at least 4 points in their GCSEs in a

minimum of 4 subjects (not including Occupational Studies).

Points

Grade Points

A* 4

A 3

B 2

C 1

What next?

If you are interested in entering Banbridge High School Sixth Form in September 2019 please fill in the Post

16 Option Form and indicate your preferred Pathway. Please indicate the three subjects you would like to

study at Post 16 remembering that a minimum of two of these subject choices should be based in

Banbridge High School.

Although no definite decisions need to be made until you get your results in August, we would appreciate

you choosing the subjects that you intend to do at this stage to facilitate timetabling. To finalise your

choices for sixth form you need to come into school on the day you receive your results with a copy of your

last report and your results. Previous good attendance and positive attitude will support your application.

You will receive more detailed information on the process in August.

Please return the Post 16 Option Form to Ms Haines.

GCE Biology (CCEA)

GCE Biology

Entry requirements/preferable criteria: In order to study GCE Biology you should have: 5 GCSE’s at Grade A* to C, including English and Maths to Grade C or better. You are also required to have GCSE Double Award Science at Grades BB or better or GCSE Biology at Grade B or better.

Course description: Students of GCE Biology learn about living organisms, biological concepts and the value and responsible use of Biology in society. Students will have many opportunities to test biological concepts by carrying out various experiments in the laboratory which develop their competence and confidence in a number of skills, including an appreciation and understanding of scientific issues.

Assessment: AS/Year 13 Units: Three written papers:

Molecules and Cells – 37.5% of AS qualification.

Organisms and Biodiversity – 37.5% of AS qualification. Both these written papers are 1 hour 30 minutes duration. Assessment of practical skills in AS Biology comprises of internal practical assessments and an external written exam of 1 hour duration. AS2/Year 14 Units: Three written papers.

Physiology, Co-ordination and control and Ecosystems.

Biochemistry, Genetics and Evolutionary Trends. Both these written papers are 2 hours 15 minutes duration. Assessment of practical skills in A2 Biology comprises of internal practical assessments and an external written exam of 1 hour 15 minutes duration.

Career Opportunities:

Many students with a GCE Biology qualification go on to undertake further study and have successful careers in a range of industries including: Medicine, Nursing, Dentistry, Veterinary Science, Pharmacology, Forensic Science, Education and Research and Management.

Entry requirements/preferable criteria:

Students should have: GCE Mathematics Grade B and/or BTEC Level 2 Engineering Merit or better.

Course description:

If successfully completed this course provides a qualification equivalent to A-Level. This programme is a specialist work-related programme of study providing opportunities for learners to achieve a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification. It offers an engaging programme for learners who, who wish to focus on Engineering, learning about Engineering Principles, Mathematics, Design and Manufacture. The BTEC Level 3 Engineering provides opportunities to enhance a range of skills and techniques, personal qualities and attitudes essential for successful performance in their working lives and career development.

Assessment:

The following will be studying across the two year programme: Core Units

Engineering Principles (120 GLH) – External exam – an engineering mathematics unit.

Delivery of Engineering (Processes Safely as A Team (60 GLH)

Engineering Product Design & Manufacture (60 GLH) Optional Unit (TBC)

Work Experience in the Engineering Sector (60 GLH)


This course will provide an understanding of both practical and theoretical engineering skills and will assist in moving on Higher Education in the following areas: Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Design Engineering, Automation Engineering, Process Engineering.

BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Engineering

GCE English Literature (CCEA)

Entry requirements/preferable criteria: A-Level English Literature would suit anyone with a keen interest in Literature and well-structured argument. If you're predicted a B or above in GCSE English Literature and/or English Language, then the English Literature A-Level might just be for you.

Course description: A-Level English Literature broadens your horizons and opens your mind to new perspectives and ideas. It allows you to construct well supported arguments and appreciate alternative interpretations of texts. The course Itself covers a wide range of engaging literature including novels, plays and poems. The texts are stimulating, interesting and will give you opportunities to develop individual interests. You can use your own original ideas and creativity when responding to each text and the course invites in-depth discussion and reflection at every opportunity.

Assessment:

AS/Year 13 Units: Two external written exams. AS2/Year 14 Units: Two external written examinations Internal assessment: Students complete a 2500-word essay.

Career Opportunities: English Literature is a highly regarded A Level that can take students onto almost any course of study. It is an essential choice for students considering an English degree but would be a good option for students considering Humanities subjects, languages or Law. It could lead onto many careers, the most obvious of which are Teaching, Journalism, Law, Business Management and Publishing.

GCE Geography (CCEA)

Entry requirements/preferable criteria: A - Level Geography requires a good GCSE foundation in order to study it, therefore students should have:

A minimum Grade C in GCSE

A genuine interest in the subject

Course description:

Geography is an interesting and useful A Level subject bridging the arts, sciences and social sciences, and is therefore highly valued by employers. The course taught covers a wide range of physical, human and cultural topics. It is useful for students to have a general awareness of topical issues currently featuring on the news or in politics, e.g. climate change, overpopulation, pollution, migration.

Assessment: The course is broken down into 6 modules and each module is examined separately. AS Units are worth 40% and

A2 Units are worth 60%.

AS/Year 13 Units:

AS1: Physical Geography (Rivers & river management; Ecosystems; Weather) –

AS2: Human Geography (Population; Settlement; Development) –

AS3: Fieldwork skills & Techniques in Geography –

All external exams – AS1 & AS2 1hr 15 min.; AS3 1hr

AS2/Year 14 Units:

A2/1: Physical Processes, Landforms & Management (Rivers & Coasts; The Dynamic Earth)

A2/2: Processes & Issues in Human Geography (Planning for Sustainable Settlements; Tourism)

A2/3: Decision Making in Geography

All external assessments: 1hr 30 min.


A-level Geography teaches valuable skills sought by employers – communication skills, teamwork, analytical,

numeracy and literacy skills, self-management, problem posing and solving skills. Apart from specialist careers

which build on Geography, such as teaching, cartography, town planning, tourism management and conservation,

the three main fields of employment are administration and management, marketing and financial work. An

understanding of Geography develops a range of skills highly sought in a variety of work in the 21st century.

GCE Health and Social Care (CCEA)

Entry requirements/preferable criteria: Pupils must fulfil the criteria for entering Post 16 courses and are not required to have studied any specific courses at Key Stage 4.

Course description: In the AS units, students learn about good quality care and how this can be achieved in health, social care and early years settings. They learn how to communicate effectively with service users in the work place. They learn about the importance of health and well-being for individuals and how government and other agencies contribute to the health and well-being of the population. Students who continue to A2 learn about how health and social care and early years services are tailored to meet the needs of specific service-user groups. They also have the opportunity to further their understanding of physiology, psychology and can develop research skills in topics relevant to health and social care, including health promotion.

Assessment: AS/Year 13 Units:

Promoting Quality Care – Internal Assessment

Communication in Health & Social Care & Early Years Settings – Internal Assessment

Health& Wellbeing – External A2/Year 14 Units:

Applied Research – Internal Assessment

Body Systems & Physiological Disorders – Internal Assessment

Providing Services – External


With a blend of written assignment work, research and written examinations, pupils have the opportunity to acquire skills essential for study at the next level. There are numerous opportunities for further study leading to a wide range of job opportunities. Popular choices include: nurse, occupational therapist, classroom assistant, carer, primary or early years teacher, social worker, clinical psychologist, occupational psychologist and many other health, social and early years careers.

GCE History (CCEA)


At least a grade C in GCSE History

A commitment to the subject as shown by your work at GCSE

Course description:

The course in AS consists of a Historical Investigations and Interpretations on Germany 1918-45. Students will

focus on the Weimar Republic, its decline and the rise of the Nazi Party from 1929 to 1933. Students will study

Historical Conflict and Change in Russia 1914-41 from the Russian Revolutions in 1917, to the dictatorship of

Stalin.

The Course in A2 consists of a study of Change over Time, examining the Clash of Communist and Capitalist

Ideologies in Europe 1900-2000 and a Historical Investigation and Interpretation of the Partition of Ireland 1900-

1925, from the Third Home Rule Bill for Ireland to a study of the newly partitioned state of Northern Ireland.


AS1 – Germany 1918 –1945 (External exam – 1hr 30 min – 20%)

AS2 – Russia 1914 – 41 (External exam – 1hr 30 min – 20%) AS2/Year 14 Units:

A2 1 – Clash of Ideologies (External exam – 1hr 15 min – 20%)

A2 2 – Partition of Ireland 1900-1925 (External exam – 2hrs 30 min – 40%)


History means employability – what jobs are available to the History student?

Accountancy Business Management Journalism Civil Service Law Teaching Personnel Insurance Social Work Conservation Publicity Management

BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Information Technology

Entry requirements/preferable criteria: General interest in ICT and a good work ethic due to the contiguous assessment through coursework and portfolio.

Course description: This qualification is designed for learners who are interested in an introduction to the study of creating IT systems to manage and share information, alongside other fields of study, with a view to progressing to a wide range of higher education courses, not necessarily in IT. 360 Guided Learning Hours (GLH), Equivalent in size to one A Level. 4 units of which 3 are mandatory and 1 optional.


Unit 2 - Creating Systems to Manage Information (90 GLH - Externally Assessed)

Unit 3 - Using Social Media in Business (90 GLH - Internally Assessed)

AS/Year 14 Units:

Unit 1 - Information Technology Systems (120 GLH - Externally Assessed)

Unit 4 - Website Development (60 GLH - Internally Assessed)

Careers Opportunities: Information Systems Manager, Database Administrator, Information Technology Consultant, Multimedia

Programmer, Software Engineer, Systems Analyst and Systems Designer. ICT supports many roles across almost all

employment sectors. Any student with recognised ICT qualifications will allow them to study ICT at a higher level

should they wish to do so.

There are a wide range of Higher and Further Level courses available.

GCE Mathematics (CCEA)

Entry requirements/preferable criteria: GCSE Mathematics Grade B or above. Students must have taken T3 or 4 AND T6 combination at GCSE (or

equivalent from other examining boards).

GCSE Further Maths would be an advantage.

Course description:

The full Advanced GCE specification consists of 4 units, the Advanced Subsidiary (AS) of 2 units. The AS is the first part of an Advanced GCE course and contributes 40% of the total Advanced GCE marks. The A2, the second part of the Advanced GCE, comprises the other 60% of the total Advanced GCE marks.


AS1 Pure Mathematics - Algebra and functions; co-ordinate geometry in the (x,y) plane; sequences and series; trigonometry; exponentials and logarithms; differentiation; integration; vectors.

External written examination of 1 hour 45 minutes. 60% of AS, 24% of A level.

AS2 – Applied mathematics - Mechanics- Kinematics, Forces and Newton’s Laws

External written examination of 1 hour 15 minutes. 40% of AS, 16% of A level A2/Year 14 Units:

A21 Pure Mathematics - Algebra and functions; co-ordinate geometry in the (x,y) plane; sequences and series; differentiation; integration; numerical methods.

External written examination of 2 hour 30 minutes. 36% of A level.

A22 Applied mathematics - Mechanics- Kinematics; Moments; Impulse and Momentum. Statistics- Probability, Statistical Distributions, Statistical Hypothesis Testing.

External written examination of 1 hour 30 minutes. 24% of A level

Career Opportunities: Recent statistics claim that people who have studied Mathematics to A Level receive, on average, 10% more of a salary. A graduate with a degree in maths can qualify for a broad range of highly paid positions in business, industry, government and teaching. Companies in the computer and communications industries employ many mathematicians as do oil companies, banks, insurance companies and consulting firms.

Many job titles apply to mathematicians who have specialised in an applied branch of mathematics. Actuaries assemble and analyse statistics to calculate probability and use this to set rates in the insurance industry. Operational Research Analysts apply mathematical principles to organisational problems. Statisticians design, carry out and interpret the numerical results of surveys and experiments.

BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Public Services

Entry requirements/preferable criteria: There will be practical elements to this course and a good grade in GCSE PE or BTEC Sport would be preferred.

Course description: The BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma is equivalent to one A-Level and its main purpose is to allow learners to develop the core specialist knowledge, understanding and skills, including Government policies, and leadership and teamwork, required by the sector. Learners have some opportunity to study in more depth a range of options, including international institutions and human rights, and discipline for the public services. The course is practical and work-related. Learning is done via the completion of projects and assignments based on realistic workplace situations, activities and demands. Assessment is on-going throughout the two years and is externally moderated. There is no written examination.

Assessment: AS/Year 13 Units & A2 Year 14 Units:

Unit 1 – Government, Policies and the Public Services

Unit 2 – Leadership and teamwork in the Public Services

Unit 3 – Citizenship, Diversity and the Public Services

Unit 35 – Land Navigation by Map and Compass* *Subject to change

All assessment is practical, and portfolio based.

Careers Opportunities: This qualification is broad in terms of the skills and knowledge it delivers. It is suited to those interested in following careers into the uniformed services, but also for those interested in Government, Volunteering & NGO, Sport Health & Fitness and Travel Industries. This qualification provides a well-established route into a variety of specialist Higher Education (HE) courses in this sector, when taken alongside other qualifications appropriate for the desired course of study. UCAS has reviewed the qualification to assess its value for access to higher education and has allocated UCAS points.

BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Sport


• GCSE Physical Education at grade B or above/equivalent sports course • GCSE English & Science at grade C or above • A keen interest in health and sport • Current participation in at least one sport/physical activity

Course description: This subject opens up a wide variety of career opportunities in the sports/leisure industry. It is equivalent in size to one A Level and consists of 4 units of which 3 are mandatory and 2 are externally assessed. The course is heavily weighted in the theoretical but has one unit of practical based learning during the two years.

Assessment: AS/Year 13 & A2/Year 14 Units:

Principles of anatomy and physiology in sport.

The physiology of sport

Assessing risk in sport

Sports coaching


Higher Education degrees (Teaching, Physiotherapy, Nutritionist)

Sports Coaching

Sports Development

Outdoor Education

Leisure Industry

Armed Services .

GCE Design and Technology (Edexcel) (Product Design)


It is preferable that a student studying GCE Design and Technology should have a grade B or higher in GCSE Design

and Technology.

This A level is a stand-alone qualification and does not include an AS qualification.

This is a full A level qualification which looks at the performance characteristics of materials, processes and techniques, digital technology, development of products, technological developments, potential hazards and risk assessment, features of manufacturing industries, designing for maintenance and the cleaner environment, current legislation and information handling, Modelling and forward planning.

Assessment:

• Written exam, externally assessed • 2 hours 30 minutes • 50% of qualification • 120 marks

There is a Maths and Science requirement within the exam Coursework is now known as Non-Examined Assessment (NEA)

• Non-examined assessment, internally assessed and externally moderated • 50% of qualification • 120 marks

The investigation report is internally assessed and externally moderated.

• Students will produce a substantial design, make and evaluate project which consists of a portfolio and a prototype • The portfolio will contain approximately 40 sides of A3 paper (or electronic equivalent)

There are four parts to the assessment:

Part 1: Identifying Opportunities for Design Part 2: Designing a Prototype Part 3: Making a Prototype Part 4: Evaluating own Design and Prototype

Career Opportunities

Possible career opportunities include Design and Technology degree, Product design, Engineering, Carpentry and

Joinery, Furniture design, Graphic design, Architecture and Surveying.

Course description:

BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma Children’s Care, Learning & Development


There are no specific GCSEs required for this course except a genuine interest in working with children.

Course description: The BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma is equivalent to one A-Level and its main purpose is to allow learners to develop the core specialist knowledge, understanding and skills.

Learners have some opportunity to study in more depth a range of options, including:

• Developing Positive relationships • Learning Development, • Know how to establish and maintain a healthy, safe and secure environment for children • Know how to supervise procedures for accidents, injuries, illnesses and other emergencies • Understand how to care for babies and children aged 0-8 years • Ability to demonstrate development of the skills required to care for babies/children aged 0-8 years.

Assessment: AS/Year 13 Units & AS2/Year 14 Units:

The course is practical and work-related. Learning is done via the completion of projects and assignments based on realistic workplace situations, activities and demands. Assessment is on-going throughout the two years and is externally moderated. All assessment is by assignment work – there are no examinations.

Career Opportunities: This qualification is broad in terms of the skills and knowledge it delivers. It is suited to those interested in following careers into Early Years and the caring professions. This qualification provides a well-established route into a variety of specialist Higher Education (HE) courses in this sector, when taken alongside other qualifications appropriate for the desired course of study. UCAS has reviewed the qualification to assess its value for access to higher education and has allocated UCAS points.

GCE Drama (Edexcel)

Entry requirements/preferable criteria: A high standard of literacy is essential, therefore prospective students should have achieved at least a grade C in GCSE English and English Literature.

Course description: Drama and Theatre Studies develops practical, creative and communication skills in almost equal measure. You will extend your ability to create drama and theatre, mostly in a performing role. You will also be required to write about drama and to develop your powers of analysis to become an informed critic. The course will involve taking part in drama productions, as well as studying plays and playwrights. You need to be curious about issues and ideas and have a creative instinct for communicating your ideas through drama. You should be keen on (and may have some experience of) acting or the visual and technical side of theatre and will have a strong desire to develop your skills in some or all of these areas. Equally you will be interested in going to the theatre to see plays performed by different theatre companies.


Component 1 – Exploration and Performance (Coursework - 60%)

This unit has a portfolio or recorded evidence or a combination of both and is internally assessed.

Component 2 – Theatre Makers in Practice (Written Exam – 40 %). This unit includes practical

exploration and study of a complete performance text, a choice of six performance texts and a live theatre evaluation – choice of performance.

AS2/Year 14 Units:

Component 1 – Devising (Coursework - 40%)

Devise an original performance using one key extract as stimuli.

Component 2 – Text in Performance (Coursework – 20%)

A group performance or design realisation of one key extract from a performance text. Component 3 – Theatre Makers in Practice (Written Exam – 40 %)

This unit includes practical exploration and study of a complete performance text, a choice of six performance texts and a live theatre evaluation – choice of performance.

Career Opportunities: AS Drama and Theatre Studies complements a range of subjects and is useful in building confidence and improving presentation skills. It teaches and develops skills valued by employers, such as: interpretive skills; creative, devising and improvisational skills; analytical, evaluative and critical skills; communication skills; and interpersonal and teamwork skills. It could also lead to further study in Drama, Theatre Studies and Performing Arts in Higher Education. The broad and varied skills base provided by Drama and Theatre Studies would promote access to a variety of people-orientated careers.

BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma Creative Media

Entry requirements/preferable criteria: There are no specific GCSEs required for this course – just enthusiasm and hard work!

Course description: The Subsidiary Diploma in Creative Media production has been developed to provide vocationally related education for those who may be considering a career in creative media sector. It provides opportunities for pupils to develop skills, knowledge and understanding relevant to the media industries, in an applied learning context and also gives them the opportunity to develop a range of skills and techniques, personal skills and attitudes essential for successful performance in working life. This course is equivalent to an A-Level and carries the same UCAS points for university entrance. An interest in using computers is essential as pupils will be taught how to use a range of software from the Adobe Creative Suite, including Photoshop, illustrator and InDesign. A digital camera will be required for the Photography Unit in Year 14.

Assessment: AS/Year 13 Units & AS2/Year 14 Units:

In this course pupils will develop the necessary skills to create the content for a magazine in Year 13 and a published book of their own choice in Year 14. The magazine will be developed for print and for tablet devices such as iPad. Previous book examples include a children’s book, a photographic story, a comic book, and a history of a local football club – endless possibilities! Pupils will research their chosen area, write the copy, take the photographs, create the graphics and layouts and finally will publish the book, which can be made available for purchase through the internet. This gives a professional end product which is a source of immense pride and satisfaction for the pupil and which can be taken to interviews for a higher education course. This course is ideal for potential journalists, photographers and graphic designers. Pupils will study the following units over the two years of the programme:

Communication Skills Pre-production Techniques Research Techniques Writing Copy Page & layout Design Photography and Photographic Practice Digital graphics for Print

All assessment is by assignment work – there are no examinations.

Career Opportunities: This qualification aims to form a strong foundation for further study and will enable pupils to enter employment in the creative media sector or to progress to higher education.

BANBRIDGE HIGH SCHOOL

Primrose Gardens

Banbridge

Co Down

BT32 3EW

Telephone: 028 4062 2471

[email protected] www.banbridgehigh.co.uk

banbridge high school post 16 prospectus · • study three a-level/btec l3 subjects over two...

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