1
Art – Painting, & Printmaking Art – 3D Biology Business Studies CoPE Chemistry Classical Civilisation Critical Thinking Dance Drama and Theatre Studies Economics Engineering
English Literature English Language Extended Project Qualification Food Technology D & T French General Studies Geography German Government & Politics Graphics Health and Social Care History Information + Comm. Tech. Latin Mathematics Mathematics Further Maths
Media Studies Music Philosophy and Ethics Photography Physical Education Physics Product Design Psychology Sociology Spanish Applied Science Sport BTEC Textiles
Art – Painting, & Printmaking Art – 3D Biology Business Studies CoPE Chemistry Classical Civilisation Critical Thinking Dance Drama and Theatre Studies Economics E n g i n e e r i n g English Literature English Language Extended Project Qualification Food Technology D & T
H
SIX
SCHOOL
AT
GEORGE ABBOT
2016-2017
THE
FORM
2
Headteacher
D J Cooper, B.Ed (Hons), NPQH
Director of Sixth Form Studies
K T O’Sullivan, B.Sc. (Hons)
Telephone:
01483 888000
Facsimile:
01483 888001
Web:
http://www.georgeabbot.surrey.sch.uk
Email:
[email protected]
Contents
The
Sixth
Form
at
George
Abbot School
2016 - 2017
Welcome to the Sixth Form at
George Abbot __________________ 2
The Curriculum _________________ 3
Advanced Graduation Certificate_______ 4
The Recruitment Process ___________ 6
Enrichment Studies Programme _______ 8
Careers Education and Guidance ______ 9
USIC - Information Centre __________ 9
Why Study at George Abbot? ________ 10
Subject Information ______________ 11
Year 13 Leavers’ Destinations ________ 92
Subject
Information
Food Technology ________________ 38
Food Science+Nutrition ____________ 40
French ______________________ 42
Geography ____________________ 44
German ______________________ 46
Government and Politics ___________ 48
Graphic Design _________________ 50
Community Sports Leader Award (CSLA) __ 11
Critical Thinking ________________ 12
General Studies _________________ 12
Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) ___ 13
Fine Art (Painting & Printmaking) _____ 14
Biology ______________________ 16
Business Studies ________________ 18
Chemistry ____________________ 20
Children’s Play, Learning and Development 22
Classical Civilisation ______________ 23
Computer Science _______________ 24
Dance _______________________ 26
Drama & Theatre Studies ___________ 28
Economics ____________________ 30
Engineering ___________________ 32
English Language ________________ 34
English Literature _______________ 36
Health and Social Care ____________ 52
History ______________________ 53
Latin _______________________ 55
Law _______________________ 56
Mathematics with Mechanics _________ 57
Mathematics with Stats ____________ 59
Further Mathematics _____________ 61
Media Studies __________________ 63
Music _______________________ 65
Performing Arts BTEC _____________ 67
Philosophy & Ethics (Religious Studies) __ 68
Photography ___________________ 70
Physical Education ______________ 72
Physics _____________________ 74
Product Design _________________ 76
Psychology ____________________ 78
Science/Biology/Physics (BTEC) ________ 80
Sociology _____________________ 81
Spanish ______________________ 85
Sports Performance and Excellence ____ 87
Sport BTEC ___________________ 88
Textiles _____________________ 89
Open University Scheme ____________ 90
Welcome to The Sixth Form at George Abbot
The Headteacher
At George Abbot School we pride ourselves on educating our students for the challenges of the future.
We aim to realise the full potential of each and every student, whatever their abilities in a demanding, but caring community.
The young people who leave our Sixth Form do so well equipped to tackle all the challenges and excitements ahead of them. Our Sixth Form has acquired a national reputation for developing students and enabling them to achieve outstanding examination success.
We hope that you will carefully investigate all the possibilities that we offer and come to the conclusion that your further educational interests and success are best served by attending our Sixth Form, beginning in September 2016.
The Director of Sixth Form Studies
We are the largest school Sixth Form in Guildford and with over 450 students we are able to offer a broad and challenging curriculum. This allows us to offer a wide choice of over 30+ subjects at A Level, or equivalent, and combined with the excellent pastoral care and numerous enrichment opportunities available we believe this makes George Abbot a great place to be a Sixth Former.The Sixth Form at George Abbot has an excellent record of achievement at Advanced Level and in October 2006 Ofsted graded the Sixth Form as outstanding, and following excellent results this year we are confident that we remain so. We have seen the smooth introduction of the new A2 level specifications and an exceptional number of our students achieved the A* grade this year. We now have students studying the Extended Project Qualification, and Open University Degree units alongside their A Level subjects and we are now offering greater BTEC provision with the introduction of new subjects at Level 3. In addition to studying your chosen A Level subjects you will also follow our graduation programme that allows students to develop their wider academic knowledge and acquire transferable skills essential to both employment and further academic study. Thus you will leave the Sixth Form at George Abbot fully equipped to commence your chosen future.
There have been changes to the A Level qualification that you should be aware of. The Department for Education began a reform of the A Level qualifications, decoupling the AS from the A2; thus making the A Level a linear qualification. The AS qualification still exists but it is stand alone and does not count towards the final A Level. These new A Levels are being phased in with the first of these being taught from September 2015. The subjects now following the new specifications are; Biology,
Chemistry, Physics, English Literature, English Language, Art and Design, Business Studies, Economics, History, Sociology and Psychology. These subjects will follow the new specifications from September 2016; Latin, Dance, Theatre Arts, Geography, French, German, Spanish, Music, Physical Education and Philosophy and Ethics. The other A Level subjects will retain the modular structure with AS contributing to the final A2 qualification.
As a Sixth Form Student at George Abbot you will still receive daily support from a tutor. This will form the basis of our system for monitoring your progress throughout your Sixth Form Studies and allow for the provision of advice and guidance on your future. We will work with you to set challenging personal targets and provide the support and guidance necessary to help you achieve them. We would also like you to be fully involved within the life of the Sixth Form and wider school community and will promote opportunities for you to do this.
We enjoy the excellent facilities of our purpose built Sixth Form centre designed to provide you with the learning environment that will allow you to strive to achieve your best through working in partnership with your teachers, tutors, and parents. We expect you to be motivated and driven to succeed in your studies, but we also want you to enjoy yourself during the two years you spend with us. We believe that we can offer you some of the best teaching, the best environment, and best opportunities available to Sixth Form Students. We look forward to working with you in the future to help you achieve your potential and realise your aspirations for the adult life ahead of you. We hope that George Abbot Sixth Form will be the place you come to make this happen.
Kevin O’Sullivan
Director of Sixth Form Studies
& Assistant Headteacher
Mrs D Cooper
The Curriculum
Facts about George Abbot
Sixth Form
from 2014-2015
99% pass rate (2015)
13% A* grades at A2 (2015)
33% A*- A grades at A2 (2015)
Also our average overall UCAS point score per student remains the equivalent to 1A* and 2 A grades.
Average of 13 students per
teaching group
This ensures that classes are personal and you receive the individual support you need to succeed.
Challenging targets set
We will set you ambitious targets in the first half term of Year 12 and track your progress closely through your studies and work with you to try and achieve your full potential.
Thirty students secured places
at Oxford and Cambridge since
2012.
Including 69% of students going to Times top 30 universities. We succeed in helping students get into the likes of Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College and the LSE. Overall over 80% of our students will proceed to higher education.
Amongst the top 10% best
providers of Post-16 education
According to the latest independent value added analysis George Abbot Sixth Form is amongst the top 10% providers of post 16 education (ALPS.)
One of the Top 20 Academy
Sixth Forms
Quoted in the Oxford Analytics 2013 Report.
Purpose built specialist
accommodation
We have a fantastic Sixth Form Centre with a comfortable catered common room, supervised and silent study spaces, specialist Sixth Form teaching rooms and over 50 work stations available for private study use.
Although academic success is one of our main aims at George Abbot, we also value those skills and qualities which cannot be measured. Ofsted deemed the Sixth Form, in October 2006, to be ‘outstanding’. In order to maintain and build on this standard we have set ourselves three main priorities:
• To maintain and build upon our reputation for quality at A Level by ensuring that we protect the ‘gold standard’ of three A Level or BTEC Level 3 passes.
• To offer all our students a broad, balanced and challenging curriculum by rewarding all achievements during a student’s Sixth Form career.
• To aim for equality of opportunity across the curriculum by recognising a student’s individual strengths and by developing respect for the individuality of others.
The George Abbot Graduation Certificate
For years both employers and admissions tutors have been keen to recognise not just academic success but other aspects that form such a key part of the student’s preparation for life in the world beyond education and we agree with them.The challenge we extend to all our students is to achieve graduation from George Abbot. The Certificate of Graduation is made up of distinct aspects of the student’s experience in the Sixth Form. Whilst the most important element will be the successful completion of ‘A’ level courses, we will also accredit other aspects of the student’s programme including their work with others and the contribution they make to the school or wider community. This will lead to the graduation portfolio as a record of student achievement and which can be presented to potential employers or admission tutors.
The George Abbot Graduation Award is now in its thirteenth year and we have incorporated the AQA Baccalaureate into our award scheme. Thus a recipient of the AQA Baccalaureate automatically graduates. The grid overleaf shows the key aspects of the certificate. We hold a graduation ceremony in September for all those who meet the requirements of the Graduate Certificate.
Advanced Graduation Certificate
Entry Requirement: The absolute minimum entry requirement for 3 or more A Levels is 5 grades A* - C
at GCSE. For specific subject entry requirements please refer to the subject prospectus. Please note
that all offers made to a student at George Abbot Sixth Form are conditional to the required grades
being met for each chosen subject.
Academic Element
School or Community Service
Individual
Achievement
3 or 4 A2 Levels or BTEC NationalAward plus General Studies/Critical Thinking/EPQ/ CSLA.
Activities chosen from a variety of
possibilities including Senior Prefect /Prefect to paired reading, Duke of Edinburgh Award, Sports Leadership or school / community service.
This is to be individually negotiated with the Sixth Form Team but is linked to a personal goal set by the student.
Working With Others
Achievement of the vInspired V50 or V100award is accepted. One week in July in which the student
is encouraged to participate in a work experience activity related to possible future employment aspirations.
The achievement of the AQA Baccalaureate available to students selecting to complete the composite parts will supercede the need to complete the above. See page 6 for more details.
Art – Painting & Printmaking Food Science and Nutrition Media Studies
Biology Food Technology Music
Business Studies French Performing Arts BTEC (Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma)
Chemistry General Studies Philosophy and Ethics
Classical Civilisation Geography Photography
Computer Science German Physical Education
Critical Thinking (AS only) Government & Politics Physics
Dance Graphic Design Product Design
Drama and Theatre Studies Health and Social Care Psychology
Economics History Science/Biology/Physics BTEC (Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma)
Engineering Latin Sociology
English Language Law Spanish
English Literature Mathematics with Mechanics Sport (BTEC National Subsidiary Diploma) Extended Project Qualification Mathematics Further Maths Textiles
Mathematics with Stats BTEC Children’s Play, Learning & Development
The following Level 3 qualifications are offered:
Advanced Graduation Certificate (Continued)
“
I know many who have gone elsewhere and are only
focussed on socialising. Here we also socialise but still
keep the determination.
”
“
The teachers are very friendly and it is easy to approach
them with any concerns.
”
“
Sixth Form at George Abbot has already been fantastic
and I look forward to school every day without fail! My
lessons are brilliant and the opportunities open to us are
endless. You will not regret choosing George Abbot.
”
“
The Sixth Form at George Abbot is unlike any other! It
has fantastic opportunities such as trips and is a very
welcoming place.
”
“
There is such a great atmosphere and I’m really enjoying it.
”
“
The atmosphere is always positive much more laid back
and a better experience than school.
”
“
The Graduation scheme promotes volunteering
which helps develop character and improves
social opportunities.
”
Working With Others
All students have the opportunity to successfully complete a work placement in July in Year 12. This is dependent upon students finding their own placement but we provide extensive support in enabling this to happen. Students are given a week off timetable in which to complete work experience and we expect all our Sixth Form students to participate. There may be a small administrative charge dependent upon the placement.
Citizenship
We are committed to providing a sound basis for future citizenship in a world of increasing complexity and diversity. As a key part of our policy which encourages breadth of experience, students will have the opportunity to choose from a number of activities including: Prefect duties, paired reading (with Year 7 students), Young Enterprise, Duke of Edinburgh Award, Peer Mentoring, House Captains or Venture Scouts/Guides, Sports Leadership or school/ community service.
Student Support
Students in the Sixth Form at George Abbot are entitled to curriculum and pastoral support throughout their Sixth Form career and beyond. Through the Personal Tutor and Senior Sixth Form Tutors we aim to provide you with a range of services designed to help you stay on course through your education at post 16 level.
The Personal Tutor
Your time in the Sixth Form is precious and you need to make the most of it. You will be assigned a personal tutor who will help to steer you in your chosen direction. Whether it be monitoring your progress, helping you to set targets, advice on matters relating to Sixth Form life or on your next step ahead, your tutor is your first point of contact.
Careers Education and Guidance
Careers education and guidance whether it be for higher education or employment is available throughout your time at George Abbot. We run a detailed series of tutorials and feature lectures on preparing you for your next step ahead including, higher education, the world of work, GAP years and managing on a budget.
Progress Monitoring
We monitor student progress continually but report formally 4 -5 times a year. The academic review days are scheduled in line with the rest of the school. We also use two A Level Information Systems (L3VA & ALIS) to check your progress in comparison with similar students nationally and use these to establish your Target Aspirational Grade (TAG). These are grades that your teachers believe you have the capacity to achieve if you work consistently at your best.
Students’ comments
George Abbot Sixth Form
The process by which students enter the Sixth Form at
George Abbot consists of the following stages:
The Recruitment Process
Tuesday 3 November parents of current Year 11 students are invited to an information evening. The Director of Sixth Form Studies explains the whole application process.
Completed application forms to be returned by Friday 4 December.
(The information is then entered on a database, and is used by timetable staff to aid planning for the subsequent year’s courses.)
During January/February every applicant who wishes to enter the Sixth Form attends an interview with a senior member of the Sixth Form Team to discuss their plans.
Thursday 26 November students and parents attend a Subject Evening. Subject teachers deliver a short presentation on each of the 30+ Advanced Level and Post 16 courses.
Friday 6 November, the Sixth Form Prospectus is available online.
Application forms issued Friday 27 November.
On Tuesday 28 June there is an induction morning where students experience lessons and receive advice on how to prepare for commencing their chosen courses in September. Courses commence September 2016.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
We always welcome a good number of students into the Sixth Form from outside. They settle in well. Prospective students and their parents are invited to an Information Evening on Tuesday 20 October this is followed by a Subject Evening on Thursday 26 November. The Subject Evening provides students with a chance to consult members of staff about subject choices. It would also be advisable to see the school in operation. Therefore, we would ask those interested to visit our website to view the dates for school tours and to make an appointment to look round. If you are unable to come to the meeting in November we will do our best to ensure you are able to get the advice you need combined with your tour.
If you decide that George Abbot is for you, you will be given an application form, and your choices will be entered onto our database. We will obtain a student profile from your current school to ascertain your suitability for Sixth Form level study.
Information for applicants coming from other schools
Entry Requirements
5 A*-C grades at GCSE are the absolute minimum number required for entry onto advanced level study. Some subjects may require higher grades in that particular area of study and these are shown in the subject information booklet which will be issued in November. These grades are set because research and experience has shown those who do not reach this level at GCSE are unlikely to cope with the demands of that particular subject at A Level. Any offer of a place on a course is conditional to the entry requirements being met. If a student believes they have a good case for being accepted on a course of study without the minimum requirements it should be brought to the attention of the Director of Sixth Form Studies.
We do ask all students and their parents to make a firm commitment to taking up a place in the Sixth Form at George Abbot once it is offered, dependent on their GCSE performance.
In addition to their chosen A Level and BTEC subject options we expect each student in George Abbot Sixth Form to participate in an enrichment subject. These will run through the entirety of Year 12 and some options may require some time in Year 13 to complete them. They have been selected for the range of extra skills, qualifications, knowledge and experiences they can offer students that we believe will enhance any university application or CV by:
• Knowledge of current cultural, social political, scientific and economic issues
• Analytical and critical reasoning
• Teamwork
• Planning, research, and evaluation skills
• The ability to engage in debate and discussion There a number of choices available in this enrichment block. We would like students to look closely at the choices available and identify their preferred option. All students are expected to study one of these choices.
They should be selected from the following:
• Community Sports Leader Award
• Critical Thinking
• EPQ Creative Option
• EPQ Dissertation
• General Studies
You will choose an enrichment subject when you make your application but you will be directed towards the path that will best suit your ideal volume of study during the interview process. Final decisions on this will be made following GCSE results in August and sometimes the timetable can limit choices. Those wishing to participate on the CSLA will need to apply directly to the PE team in September (limited places available).
The AQA Baccalaureate
At George Abbot Sixth Form it is possible to study for the AQA Baccalaureate award. This is an overarching award that encompasses a range of qualifications and achievements that a successful student may complete in their time in Sixth Form. It is based around 3 A Levels but it also requires AS Level General Studies or Critical Thinking and the Extended Project Qualification. The Baccalaureate also recognises and rewards student achievement in community work, personal skill acquisition and work related learning. It is awarded at distinction, pass, and merit level and has been favourably received by many leading universities and employers. The diagram below gives an over view of the award.
Careers Education &
Guidance in the Sixth
Form
Careers Education and Guidance is a partnership between students, their parents and the school. CEG aims to support students as they prepare for further and higher education, apprenticeships, training or employment.
Every effort is made to ensure guidance provided meets the needs of the student(s) concerned and, therefore, aspects of CEG may vary from year to year. Traditionally, however, CEG includes:
• Interviews by appointment with external career guidance consultants - and or ‘drop in’ sessions with USIC staff.
• Work experience, work related learning, work shadowing and careers visits
• Use of the Careers Library resources - literature, prospectuses, FROG careers pages and websites.
• Regular Feature Lectures from visiting speakers covering relevant topics.
Our Higher Education advisor is Mr Williamson and can be contacted on 01483 888000
email: [email protected]
Year 12 (Spring and Summer term)
• Research Higher Education and Further Education courses
• Attend open days and specialist courses (day and residential)
• Work related learning
• Parents’ evening and students’ day on applying for HE/FE courses and HE Convention at the University of Surrey
• The University (UCAS) and Art School application process in detail
• Individual careers guidance interviews
• Investigate GAP year opportunities
• Visit to a University
• Opportunities to participate in careers events
Year 13 (September onwards)
• Applications to HE/FE establishments (course searches and personal statements)
• Specialists Admissions Tests
• Plan GAP year
• Attend interviews/open days etc.
• Apply for grants, sponsorship etc.
• Individual careers guidance interviews
• Apply for employment/training vacancies
• Reassess/reapply as necessary
REMEMBER
USIC staff are available for individual help and consultation for students and parents.
Please keep Mr Williamson informed of your plans and ideas, however often they may change, so that relevant literature, invitations, vacancies, etc. can be sent on to you directly.
Specialist Support
This is available from Mr Williamson for students applying to Oxford and Cambridge and for courses such as Primary School Teaching, Nursing and Social Work.
USIC - Upper School
Information Centre
The ability to retrieve and use information intelligently is a fundamental life skill. USIC acts as a facilitator guiding students to access and use information effectively. It offers students the opportunities to develop their information literacy and the social and mental skills necessary for the technological age.What the Centre has to offer
Books to support the curriculum – fiction books, newspapers, careers information and advice, internet services, online databases, quiet study area, computers and online resources.
How to access the information
We use the schools learning platform, Frog to direct students to information sources. After login students should choose Classroom, Information Centres, USIC, on-line resources.: The school subscribes to a number of excellent reference tools
• Literary Reference Centre
• Science Reference Centre
• History Study Centre
• Philip Allan Magazines
• The Day
• Essential Articles
Online reference services are also available through Surrey Libraries, although students will need a current Surrey Library Card to be able to access these tools. A full list is available through www.surreycc.gov.uk/libraries
Students may borrow a library card for the University from USIC. The university’s catalogue is available online.
How to use the Information
• Decide on the key questions you need to answer.
• It will help to read general information about the broad topic you are studying before narrowing your focus to a specific area.
• Find the information sources
• Take notes focusing on your key questions.
• Present your information looking for patterns and themes and analysing what you have discovered.
• Do not forget to cite any sources you have referred to using www.bibme.org or other similar web tools
• Remember knowledge and understanding, not data and information are central to your research.
• Information Centre staff are always pleased to help students with finding and using information. They have an up to date knowledge of Internet learning tools which can help students organise and manage their learning.
SAM Learning
The school subscribes to this service and all students have their own logins. This online learning tool has practice papers for seven A Level subjects.
When can you use the Centre?
The Centre is open from 8.00am - 5pm.As sixth formers you may borrow up to eight items. Most are available for a three-week loan period, while those in heavy demand are on restricted loan. Textbooks will also be issued using the library issue system.
10
“
The teaching quality is great!
”
“
There are good
opportunities provided
by the Sixth Form to
build up a great CV and
university application.
”
“
The teachers are
friendly and it is easy
to approach them
with any concerns.
”
Why study at George Abbot Sixth Form?
By current students in their own words.
“
The Sixth Form is a
sociable, friendly and
exciting environment
with teachers who
care about the welfare
and achievements of
the students.
”
“
The support and guidance you
receive here is phenomenal. So
much effort is put into your two
years learning.
”
“
Gives you a sense of pride going
through the lower school and then
into the Sixth Form.
”
“
The classes are smaller, the
teaching is more personal.
”
“
There is such a great atmosphere
and I’m really enjoying it.
”
“
I know many who have gone
elsewhere and are only focused
on socialising. Here we also
socialise but we still keep the
determination.
”
“
Sixth Form at George Abbot has already
been fantastic. My lessons are brilliant
and the opportunities open to us
are
endless. You will not regret choosing
George Abbot.
”
“
Excellent past results. One of the
best Sixth Forms around.
”
“
I have really enjoyed The
Sixth Form.
”
“
The school is great.
”
“
George Abbot has
welcomed me into
the sixth Form with
open arms, and I have
thoroughly enjoyed my
last years of education
here.
”
“
I like the atmosphere
in classes as we are
talked to more like
adults.
”
“
Since joining the Sixth
Form I have become
more independent.
Sixth Form
Community Sports Leader Award (CSLA)
Course Code
Contact:
Ms W Nightingale
Length of Course
Three termsEntry requirements
An interest in sport and coaching. You will need to submit a letter in support of your application
Why study the Community Sports Leader Award?
The Level 2 Award in Community Sports Leadership is a nationally recognised qualification that enables successful candidates to lead groups of people in sport/activity, under indirect supervision.The qualification teaches generic leadership skills such as organisation, planning, communication and teamwork through the medium of sport. It is a fun and practical qualification with no entrance requirements or final examinations to sit.
What will you be learning?
• The Community Sports Leader Award – a nationally recognised Level 2 (GCSE level) leadership award
• Working with youngsters from neighbouring schools on a range of sporting activities.
• Good inter-personal and organisational skills.
• You will gain a first aid qualification from this course
How much is assessed through coursework?
All - You must complete 7 units. In addition you must take part in 10 hours of demonstration of leadership within the community. You will also need to gain a first aid qualification on the course.What happens when you finish?
Many students who complete the CSLA use it to help them develop an application for Sports Studies, Coaching, Teaching and other related courses.
What other learning can you do
You may wish to continue to develop your sporting interest alongside your CSLA award.
Career Information
Particularly suitable for those wanting to go into the field of sport, coaching or teaching. This course also allows you to develop and demonstrate leadership skills.
“
Lots of sport involved with
insight into positioning and
teaching to others.
AS Level
Sixth Form
Critical Thinking
Course Code
OCR AS Level 500
Contact:
Mrs C Wilson
Length of Course
Three termsEntry requirements
You would be studying four other AS subjects and we would expect your GCSEs to be mostly at Grade A. The course is intended for the more able student who wishes to strengthen their academic competencies.
Why study Critical Thinking?
This one-year course aims to develop a set of transferable skills which will enable you to construct and analyse arguments and evidence at speed, and to communicate your responses precisely and effectively. It aims to introduce concepts, terms and techniques that will enable students to reflect more constructively on their own and others’ reasoning. Students will learn how information can be presented in different formats, to judge the reliability of evidence and what is safe or unsafe to infer the data.
What knowledge or skills should I bring to the course?
You should have a real interest in current affairs and enjoy the idea of hearing different points of view. You have the ability to justify a point of view and present a coherent argument to support it. You are likely to read a broadsheet newspaper; The Times, The Guardian, The Telegraph or The Independent (or acquire a desire to do so!) and watch documentary/news and current affairs programmes such as Panorama, Horizon, World in Action, Question Time, Newsnight, etc…Assessment:
OCR Paper One 1½ hours – 50% of AS Level.
A general introduction to critical thinking skills, the structure of arguments and appreciation of credibility.
Developing your own arguments.
OCR Paper Two 1½ hours – 50% of AS Level.
This unit focuses on analyzing arguments and common flaws in arguments. Developing your own arguments.
What happens when you finish?
Critical Thinking is part of the Sixth Form graduation programme and forms part of the graduation portfolio. If combined with the EPQ, three A Levels, and the required citizenship hours.
What our students go on to do:
Whilst not directly using the result gained by a student in this subject as part of their offer, universities recognise the rigour of this course and often use it as an additional discriminator when screening the most able applicants. Critical Thinking exercises are central to the Medical and Law Schools Admissions Tests set by some universities.
AS Level
General Studies
Course code
AQA GENA
Contact
Mr K O’Sullivan
Length of course
Three termsEntry Requirements
Five A-C GCSEsWhy study General Studies?
General Studies is designed to encourage students to study a broad range of subject material and provide them with the opportunity to think widely and become aware of the key issues in contemporary society. It is designed to:
• develop a greater awareness of human knowledge, understanding and behaviour
• appreciate that there are various ways of interpreting information
• communicate clearly
• marshal evidence and draw conclusions
• select and integrate information, data and opinions
What will you be learning?
Thinking and analytical skills. Looking at issues related to culture, science and society.
There are two units in this course.
Unit One: Culture and Society explores the challenges facing society, whether they are scientific, technological or moral. Unit Two: Science and Society - looks at the individual in society and asks what influences behaviour and where values and opinions come from.
Assessment
Two – 1½ papers.
How much is assessed through coursework?
NoneWhat happens when you finish?
General Studies is part of the Sixth Form Graduation programme and forms part of the Graduation portfolio. If combined with the EPQ, three A Levels, and the required citizenship hours. It may qualify you to be awarded the AQA Baccalaureate Award
What other learning can you do
The topics in these units will enrich all the other subjects in the Sixth Form. Many students do use their points gained through General Studies to gain access on to points based university courses.
Career Information
Suitable for all careers.Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)
Course Code
Edexcel EPQ
Contact:
Mrs C Wilson
Length of Course:
One Year or spanning Year 12/13Entry requirements
This course suits those with a high points score at GCSE who want to develop their independent learning and research skills and challenge their learning through personal research of a topic of interest.
Why study the Extended Project Qualification?
The aim of the Project is to encourage intellectual curiosity and to realise academic outcomes from this. Students can choose either to develop further a topic they have already studied at A Level or to pursue a personal interest in a structured and academic way. The EPQ will develop the independent learning skills that Universities wish to see future students equipped with ready to commence undergraduate study. It attracts UCAS points and is the equivalent of an AS Level and it also allows you to produce a detailed piece of work that can be taken to or sent to a top ranking university as part of your application if work is requested. It will also allow you to develop thoroughly a personal passion in a particular subject area or field.What knowledge or skills should I bring to the
course?
Participating students should be able to work independently, although they will be guided and monitored closely.
Participants need to demonstrate initiative and enterprise and to be well organised. An interest in a particular field that you are keen to study independently and in great depth. An ability to motivate yourself to study independently.
Assessment
You submit a final piece of work that can take many formats from an essay or report to a performance or piece of art. You are assessed on your final piece but also the process you go through to complete it. The skills detailed below are those assessed and their weightings shown;
Managing your project: 20%
Using resources to research your project: 20% Developing and realising your project: 40% Reviewing your work: 20%
What happens when you finish?
The benefits to the participants are significant. Students should become more critical, reflective learners who can develop and apply decision making and problem solving skills as well as enjoying the challenge of synthesising, analysing and presenting the evidence of their research. It will equip you well to cope with the demands of university and Higher Education Study.
What our students go on to do:
As this course complements all subjects they can go on to literally do anything.
Special points of consideration:
Currently, the school offers two EPQ courses:
Dissertation EPQ – Usually completed following the Critical Thinking AS. The EPQ taught content is delivered in the summer term following AS examinations and throughout the Autumn and Spring term of Year 13. Students submit their EPQ in February of Year 13.
The Dissertation EPQ will usually be taken by more able students that have the capacity and commitment to take on additional work having dropped an A Level subject at the end of Year 12.
Creative EPQ – This is for students who wish to produce an EPQ that encompasses a work of art or performance piece. E.g. A piece of music, a sculpture, a film, or a dance. This will be completed by May in Year 12 or November in Year 13 .
Sixth Form
Faculty of Visual Arts
Fine Art (Painting & Printmaking)
AS Level
Course code:
AQA 7242
Contact:
K Clifford
Entry Requirements
Five GCSEs which must include at least grade C or above in either, Art or Textiles at GCSE.
Extra costs
An A3 sketchbook and a set of good pencils are essential and basic oil and acrylic paints would be useful. These are all available from the school shop. Access to a digital camera would also be helpful.
What will you be learning?
This exciting new AS course brings together Painting, Printmaking and Sculpture. Through experimental mini-projects in each area, students have the opportunity to develop a range of sophisticated skills and ideas in order to build up a portfolio of work. The course is also reinforced by an art historical context that hopes to challenge the students through different ways of thinking about and making work. Life drawing and gallery visits also form an important part of the course. There are few schools that can offer such a range of activities taught by specialists in each field. It complements the other visual art A Levels but is also ideal as a single art subject. It is an excellent course for those considering further education in the Arts, and the strengths of the department are well known by many art colleges.
You should have a passion in Art and an interest in visual culture and the curiosity to learn more. You should enjoy looking at other artists’ work and exploring your own ideas and experimenting with different ways of working to achieve your personal goals.
Enrichment opportunities
Life Drawing with The Outreach Programme run by The Royal Academy of Arts • Trips abroad for example New York and Paris • Visiting artists and talks •.Gallery visits
Assessment
Unit1 Portfolio Coursework • 96 marks • Weighting: 60% of total AS marks. Candidates should produce a collection of materials which exemplifies work carried out during the AS course. All the work produced for this unit will be marked as a whole. Set and marked by the centre and moderated by AQA by visit to the centre. Visits will normally take place in June.
Unit2 Externally Set Assignment • 96 marks • Weighting: 40% of total AS marks. Supervised Time – 10 hours Candidates select one of five starting points. The externally-set assignment will last from 1 February until the deadline for receipt of marks. Candidates may produce preparatory work and a finished piece or pieces or work of a wholly developmental nature. Candidates should be selective when deciding what to submit for this unit.
What happens when you finish?
The majority of students progress to study A2.Fine Art
“
You get to explore so much more deeply into the subject
than in GCSE. It is also enjoyable and educational in the
cultural prospective.
Continued
A2 Level
Course code:
AQA 7202
Contact :
K Clifford
Entry Requirements
A pass at AS Fine ArtWhat will you be learning
You would be involved with creating a Personal Investigation of your own choice based on an idea, issue, concept or theme. This will be supported by a written element of 3000 words which will help to develop an innovative and exciting finished piece. It is at this point you can choose to specialize in a particular Fine Art area or continue to work in a range of media. Once that is complete you will embark on the final externally set assessment in which most of our students produce high quality and innovative final pieces.
Enrichment opportunities
Life Drawing with The Outreach Programme run by The Royal Academy of Arts • Trips abroad for example New York and Paris • Visiting artists and talks •.Gallery visits.
Fine Art (Painting & Printmaking)
Assessment
Coursework: 96 marks • Weighting: 60% of total A Level marks Candidates are required to develop a personal investigation based on an idea, issue, concept or theme supported by 1000 - 3000 words.
Externally-Set Assignment: 96 marks • Weighting: 40% of total A Level marks
Towards the end of the examination period candidates must complete 15 hours of unaided, supervised time, the first three hours of which should be consecutive.
All the work produced for the two units will be marked as a whole by the centre and then moderated by AQA by visit to the centre. Visits will normally take place in June.
What happens when you finish?
Students can (as with other A Level courses) use their points from this A Level to go on to university. This is also an ideal course for those wishing to go on to further education on to an Art Foundation Course (advised) or direct entry to university. Students regularly gain places on the most prestigious Foundation courses such as Farnham, Epsom and Camberwell.
Career Information
Careers include any art related industries: the media, galleries, design, architecture, teaching, as well as being an artist!
AS Level
Faculty of Science
Biology
Course code:
AQA 7401
Contact Mrs G Avenell (gavenell@georgeabbot.
surrey.sch.uk)
Entry Requirements
Minimum B in GCSE Biology (treble science) or minimum B in GCSE Additional science, with at least a B in the individual component of BL2. There is also a requirement of B or above in GCSE Maths.
Extra costs
£390 approximately for fieldcourse, at the end of the summer term, £30 for textbooks.
Why study Biology?
Because it is interesting and it is about you! The AS and A Level Biology courses cover a wide variety of very different areas of Biology and there are topics that will interest everyone. The course includes topics that are regularly in the news, and sometimes controversial, such as genetic engineering and current conservation issues. We also cover how the human body works; how can your body react in a split second when a cricket ball comes flying towards you…? Another area of the course is ecology, the study of animals and their environment. We will be studying this part of the course on a residential field trip. Other topics include evolution – how did a simple jelly like life form evolve into the modern human and genetic fingerprinting – using Biology to solve crimes. If you are interested in these areas you will enjoy a Biology course in the Sixth Form. By following a Sixth Form Biology course you will also learn a number of skills which will be useful in further education and in your career. As well as learning practical techniques a Biology course will help to develop your communication and analytical skills, amongst others.
What will you be learning
The course is divided into four main areas:3.1 Biological Molecules- monomers, polymers, carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, enzymes, DNA, RNA, ATP and water.
3.2 Cells- eukaryotic, prokaryotic, microscopy, cell cycle, cell division, transport across membranes, cell recognition and immune system.
3.3 Organisms exchange substances with their environment- SA:Volume, gas exchange, digestion and absorption and mass transport.
3.4 Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms- DNA genes and chromosomes, protein synthesis, genetic diversity, taxonomy, species diversity.
Enrichment opportunities
Fieldcourse that focuses on intertidal and coastal ecology. Occasional visits to public lectures.
Assessment
Paper 1- 75 mins 1 hour 30 mins, 50% of AS mark and covers any section of AS course.
Paper 2- 75 mins 1 hour 30 mins, 50% of AS mark and covers any section of AS course.
How much is assessed through coursework?
There is no coursework for this course, however there will be a requirement to complete 12 practicals across the AS and A2 course.What happens when you finish?
Continue onto the A2 course.What other learning can you do
Extensive reading around the core material will help with being able to answer ‘stretch and challenge’ questions.
Career Information
See A2 level.
“
A Level Biology provides a greater insight
into the fascinating natural processes
of not only the human body but plants as
well. The subject inspires curiosity.
I find myself eagerly anticipating every
biology lesson.
A2 Level
Course code:
AQA 7401
Contact
Mrs G Avenell
[email protected]
Entry Requirements
Minimum E in AS BiologyExtra costs
£30 for textbooksWhat will you be learning
The course consists of the 4 Units studied in AS and will also include 4 more units which are as follows:
3.5 Energy transfers in and between organisms- photosynthesis, respiration, energy and ecosystems and nutrient cycles
3.6 Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environment- survival and response, receptors, control of heart rate, nervous control, muscles and homeostasis
3.7 Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems- inheritance, populations, evolution, speciation, studying populations in ecosystems
3.8 The control and gene expression- DNA and proteins, gene expression, genome projects, gene technologies
Enrichment opportunities
Fieldcourse that focuses on intertidal and coastal ecology. Occasional visits to public lectures.
Assessment
Paper 1- 2 hours, 35% of A2 mark and covers AS topics 1-4 Paper 2- 2 hours, 35% of A2 mark and covers A2 topics 5-8 Paper 3- 2 hours, 30% of A2 mark and covers all AS topics and A2 topics 1-8
How much is assessed through coursework?
Coursework will not make up the marks for the course however students will need to complete 12 compulsory practicals.What happens when you finish?
A useful course to have when applying for any Biological sciences degree in the UK.
What other learning can you do
Extensive reading around the core material will help with being able to answer ‘stretch and challenge’ questions
Career Information
Careers within Biology include research, medical sciences, conservation and environmental work. Careers in which you will find your knowledge of Biology useful include genetics, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, environmental health, dietetics, physiotherapy, nursing and healthcare, medicine, biotechnology industries and of course teaching! In addition to these any degree course or employer will recognise an AS or A Level qualification in Biology as evidence of significant educational achievement and potential.
Continued
Biology
AS Level
Faculty of Social Science
Business Studies
Course code
AQA 7132
Contact
Ms N Wood (Head of Business
Studies and Economics)
Entry Requirements
5 GCSEs at C or above; must obtain a C in GCSE Maths and English.
Students who have completed GCSE Business Studies previously, must have achieved at least a C grade.
Why study Business Studies?
Learn how businesses operate, why they advertise, how they make decisions about prices and what strategies they use to develop their product portfolio. Gain a better understanding of the four functional areas in a business and how they work to achieve the overall corporate aims. Students will better understand the inner workings of various sized businesses, their legal structure and their day to day operations. They will assess a range of case studies and learn more about the business world which is dominating the national and international world that we live in. The commercial world will become a real world for you in the future, prepare to meet it with knowledge and confidence.
What will you be learning
1. What is business?2. Managers, leadership and decision making 3. Decision making to improve marketing
performance
4. Decision making to improve operational performance 5. Decision making to improve financial performance 6. Decision making to improve human resource
performance
An introduction to the scope of Business Studies within the context of starting a new business. A range of activities involved in setting up a small business. Eg. Marketing, finance, production, people.
Managing a business – students will interpret data measuring the effectiveness of the business including profitability, labour productivity, labour turnover, unit costs and market share.
Enrichment opportunities
An extensive revision day leading up to summer exams. We hope to take students on an educational visit over the course of the two years, this is likely to be visiting a manufacturer or service provider such as Disney Land or Cadbury’s. Details TBC.
Students will also have the opportunity to participate in the investor challenge where they can try out their skills in making a profit from an investment.
Assessment
Assessment is based on knowledge, application, analysis and evaluation. Two external exams.
Paper 1: written exam, 1.5 hours, 50% of AS Paper 2: written exam, 1.5 hours, 50% of AS
For those who continue to A2, the AS exam results will not make any contribution to the full A-level.
How much is assessed through coursework?
No coursework. Each exam assesses a different skill and exam technique. Some using multiple choice, others extended evaluation questions and some case study data response.Career Information
Students who pass the AS be expected to complete the two year course and qualify with a full A-level in Business Studies which they can use to apply for a degree course in a related field or for an apprenticeship in HR, marketing or finance. Others may wish to apply their acquired business skills and entrepreneurial flair to a start-up business idea.
Faculty of Social Science
Business Studies
A2 Level
Course code
AQA 2017
Contact
Ms N Wood (Head of Business
Studies and Economics)
Entry Requirements
Successful completion of AS Business Studies
What will you be learning
The study of strategic decision making should build on the study of decision making in the functional areas.
Students should consider:
• the impact of technology on strategic decision making
• the influences of Corporate Social Responsibility, ethical and environmental issues on strategic decisions
• the difficulties in forecasting future trends
• the importance of assessing feasibility and risk when making strategic decisions
• the impact on stakeholders of strategic decisions and their response to such decisions.
The topics lend themselves to studying and engaging with the business world. The specification and assessment should encourage students to follow business developments and think critically about contemporary business issues. Most of the assessment material is based on real business situations. By examining and thinking critically about real business situations as they study the subject, students will gain an insight into different contexts which will help them to understand the key issues in any situation and compare and contrast this with other situations and apply their understanding.
Assessment
Assessment is based on knowledge, application, analysis and evaluation.
Three external exams.
Paper 1: Business 1 (two hour written exam worth 100m and 33% of the course).
Three compulsory sections:
• Section A has 15 multiple choice questions (MCQs) worth 15 marks.
• Section B has short answer questions worth 35 marks.
• Sections C and D have two essay questions (choice of one from two and one from two)
Paper 2: Business 2 (two hour written exam, worth 100m and 33% of the course).
Three data response compulsory questions worth approximately 33 marks each and made up of three or four part questions.
Paper 3: Business 3 (two hour written exam, worth 100m and 33% of the course)
One compulsory case study followed by approximately six questions.
How much is assessed through coursework?
No coursework. All units are assessed through a written exam in the summer.What happens when you finish?
Go on to university to study a Business Studies, Economics, Marketing, or Finance related degree. Alternatively work as an apprentice in HR, finance or marketing. Some students may be very enterprising and with their acquired business skills will set-up in business.
What other learning can you do
Research - various businesses on the InternetKeep up to date with current business news using websites such as BBC, The Times and The Guardian.
Group tasks and presentations, conducting market research and presenting your findings.
Career Information
Business Studies can lead to careers in Accountancy, Banking, Marketing, Human Resources, Production, Economics, Education, or Law..
AS Level
Faculty of Science
Chemistry
Course code
Edexcel 8CH01
Contact [email protected]
Entry Requirements
Minimum B in GCSE Physics (treble science) or minimum B in GCSE Additional science, with at least a B in the individual component of CH2. There is also a requirement of B or above in GCSE Maths.
Why study Chemistry?
Chemistry is unavoidable in the world we live in. Chemical industries are involved in producing a variety of things we take for granted: Fuels – e.g. diesel, petrol and rocket fuel. Polymers – e.g. PVC and PTFE. Adhesives. Drugs – e.g. aspirin and Viagra. Perfumes. Make up. Textiles like nylon, polyester and Lycra. Dyes. Pyrotechnics – e.g. fireworks. Detergents etc. This course will help you to develop an understanding of some of the chemical concepts involved in such industries as well as providing a good foundation for those who will continue their studies in this or related subjects. See below for some possible post A-level courses.
What will you be learning
This course will try to give you the skills and understanding to make decisions about the way chemistry affects your everyday life by applying concepts into contemporary areas of chemistry including:
Topic 1: Atomic structure and the Periodic Table Topic 2: Bonding and Structure
Topic 3: Redox I
Topic 4: Inorganic Chemistry and the Periodic Table Topic 5: Formulae, Equations and Amounts of Substance Topic 6: Organic Chemistry I
Topic 7: Modern Analytical Techniques I
Topic 8: Energetics I Topic 9: Kinetics I Topic 10: Equilibrium I
In addition Chemistry allows you to develop a range of generic skills requested by both employers and universities. You will build up a range of practical skills that require creativity and accuracy. As you become more skilled you will take responsibility for selecting appropriate qualitative and quantitative methods, recording your observations and findings accurately and precisely as well as critically analysing and evaluating the methodology, results and impact of your own and others’ experimental and investigative activities.
Enrichment opportunities
All chemistry students will be enrolled on the Bestchoice website which has both explanations of most topics and questions to test your understanding.
Assessment
Two 1 hour 30 minute exams containing a mixture of objective, short answer and extended questions.
Paper 1: Core Inorganic and Physical Chemistry Paper 2: Core Organic and Physical Chemistry
How much is assessed through coursework?
0% - though there is an assessment of practical competence which does not contribute towards the final grade.What happens when you finish?
Continue on to A2.What other learning can you do.
Chemistry would be of considerable help to anyone studying Biology, and is a natural accompaniment to Physics and Maths.
Career Information
See A2 level.
“
It gets far more interesting at A Level. The teachers
are really nice and they show real enthusiasm for the
subject making it fun to learn.
Chemistry is an important keystone in understanding
how the world around us functions and thrives.
Chemistry
A2 Level
Continued
Chemistry
Course code
Edexcel 9CH01
Contact [email protected]
Entry Requirements
Grade B or above at GCSE level in Chemistry or additional science (including B or above on the Chemistry exam)and grade B or above in GCSE mathematics.
What will you be learning
This course will try to give you the skills and understanding to make decisions about the way chemistry affects your everyday life by
Topic 1: Atomic structure and the Periodic Table Topic 2: Bonding and Structure
Topic 3: Redox I
Topic 4: Inorganic Chemistry and the Periodic Table Topic 5: Formulae, Equations and Amounts of Substance Topic 6: Organic Chemistry I
Topic 7: Modern Analytical Techniques I Topic 8: Energetics I
Topic 9: Kinetics I Topic 10: Equilibrium I Topic 11: Equilibrium II Topic 12: Acid-base Equilibria Topic 13: Energetics II Topic 14: Redox II Topic 15: Transition Metals Topic 16: Kinetics II
Topic 17: Organic Chemistry II Topic 18: Organic Chemistry III
Topic 19: Modern Analytical Techniques II
In addition Chemistry allows you to develop a range of generic skills requested by both employers and universities. You will build up a range of practical skills that require creativity and accuracy. As you become more skilled you will take responsibility for selecting appropriate qualitative and quantitative methods, recording your observations and findings accurately and precisely as well as critically analysing and evaluating the methodology, results and impact of your own and others’ experimental and investigative activities.
Enrichment opportunities
See AS level.Assessment
Two 1 hour and 45 minute papers containing a mixture of multiple choice, short answer and extended writing; Paper 1: Advanced Inorganic and Physical Chemistry Paper 2: Advanced Organic and Physical Chemistry One 2 hour and 30 minute paper containing a mixture of multiple choice, short answer and extended writing; Paper 3: General and Practical Principles in Chemistry
How much is assessed through coursework?
0% There are questions on practical aspects of chemistry in paper 3 and a general assessment of practical competence which does not contribute towards the final grade.What happens when you finish?
University course such as:
• Chemistry, Chemical Engineering Chemistry in combination.
• Medicine, Veterinary Science, Pharmacology, Physiology.
• Biochemistry, Bioscience, Biological Sciences, Food Science, Geology.
What other learning can you do
See AS level.Career Information
Chemistry is essential for careers in the chemical industry ( R&D production, sales etc.) medicine, veterinary science, chemical engineering, forensic science and pharmacy. It will also be an asset to anyone wanting to pursue a career in environmental science, quality control, analysis
