Sixth Form Prospectus 2018/ 2019 - www.caludoncastle.co.uk/sixth form - Caludon Castle School
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Sixth Form
Prospectus
2018/ 2019
www.caludoncastle.co.uk/sixth‐form
CONTENTS
Sixth Form Information Subjects
Welcome 1
History 25
Support and Succeed 2
Information Technologies 26
Caludon Castle Sixth Form Hub 3
Mathematics 27
Curriculum and Employability 4
Further Mathematics 28
Enrichment and Sixth Form Societies 5
Core Mathematics 29
Entry Requirements 6‐8
GCSE Mathematics 30
Recent University and Apprenticeship 9
destinations
Media Studies 31
The Sixth Form Team 44
Subjects Moving Image 32
Art and Design 10 Music 33
Biology 11
Philosophy and Ethics 34
Business 12
Drama 13 Photography 35
Chemistry 14 Physics 36
Computer Science and Computer Science BTEC 15‐16
Product Design 37
Economics 17
English Language 18 Psychology 38
English Literature 19 Science Applied 39
English Lit and Lang 20
Sociology 40
GCSE English 21
Spanish 41
French 22
Geography 23 Sport 42
Health and Social Care 24 Travel and Tourism 43
WELCOME
Thank you for considering the Sixth Form The Sixth Form team is dedicated to ensuring
at Caludon Castle School. In an an effective climate for learning, developing
increasingly competitive world, higher student independence and maximising
qualifications will give you a broader student progress. We expect your
range of career opportunities. We feel wholehearted commitment to the courses
confident that Caludon offers excellent you will study; in return we promise you our
courses for all our students, whatever fullest support. We look forward to
their interests and abilities. We run a wide welcoming you to Caludon Castle Sixth Form.
range of Advanced Level and BTEC level 3
(equivalent of A level) courses and an
exciting combined one‐year level 2/3
course, incorporating a BTEC and resit
GCSEs. We are also part of the Coventry
Federation, a group of 19 secondary
schools, and students are able to access
more courses through this Federation.
Our modern building provides excellent
facilities for learning and teaching
Mrs Caroline Waring
provision, including lots of specialist
Deputy Headteacher
facilities, such as a dedicated photography
Leadership link for
area with dark room, a drama studio, high
Post 16
quality science laboratories and excellent
IT facilities. The Sixth Form has its own
purpose built area within the school
building and access to the onsite
community library.
Mrs Michele Marr
Headteacher
1
SUPPORT AND
SUCCEED
“Probably the biggest insight is that happiness is not
just a place, but also a process….an ongoing process
of fresh challenges and it takes the right attitudes and
Where applicable, we enter students for AS
activities to continue to be happy” Ed Diener
exams to help inform us and them of their
Welcome to knowledge, progress and suitability for the
Caludon Sixth full A level course. Those who do not sit an
Form. You will be AS will sit an assessment exam at the end of
supported by the Year 12, to ensure that they too can make
Post 16 staff, as informed decisions about their Year 13 A
you make your level programme of study.
initial subject We have a fantastic choice of enrichment
choices this winter. activities and Sixth Form societies which help
We will help you choose a programme students to develop skills beyond the
that is appropriate for you and best suited curriculum, making them more competitive
to your talents and aspirations. Help and and employable young people so that they
advice will also be available to you during are well prepared for their future pathways.
our taster days which take place in July All students in Year 12 will also undertake
after your GCSE exams, and again on work experience to help them build their
results day in August. employability skills.
Students who join from other schools are We are proud of our students’ achievements
made to feel welcome and settle well. in AS, A level, BTEC, Applied Level three
Indeed students have often commented courses and all qualifications obtained, as
on the warm welcome. We also have a well as their chosen pathways for the future.
wonderful welfare and transition student Over 120 students gained places at
leadership team who are there especially university last year, of whom 21 students
to support all students as they move into went to Russell Group Universities and a
Post 16 education. further 44 are now attending one of the top
40 universities in the UK. An increasing
Students benefit from high quality, number of students achieved either higher or
engaging and stimulating lessons, which degree level apprenticeship placements, as
enable them to develop a deep the vocational route becomes more popular
understanding and love of their subjects. and we strengthen our links with local
Many of our students move on to employers.
universities, apprenticeships or further
training in these or related subjects after We are always happy to offer help and advice
their Post 16 education. For each subject to prospective students; please contact us in
students will receive regular quality the Post 16 office if you have any questions
feedback on their progress towards about the Post 16 experience.
achieving and exceeding their targets Miss Ruth Roberts
Assistant Headteacher and Director of
2 Post 16
CALUDON CASTLE
6TH FORM HUB
The common room is a vibrant area where
student can relax, listen to music,
complete group work and eat their lunch.
This is an excellent place for students who
are new to Caludon to meet new friends
and integrate fully into the Caludon
community.
The Sixth Form staff office is much more
At Caludon we believe that education is than just an area for administration. It is
about more than just qualifications. It is very much the 'hub' of the Sixth Form
also about developing young adults, area, which was clearly recognised in our
which can only be achieved through recent Ofsted inspection. The three Sixth
developing a supportive environment. Form Heads of House are based in the
office along with our administration and
The care and guidance they are offered is pastoral support staff, who provide advice
excellent and they are clearly proud to and guidance throughout the day.
play a part in the caring culture of the
provision. Ofsted 2016
At Caludon we have a large and vibrant
Sixth Form community which is located
within the heart of the school. The Sixth
Form has 3 main areas; the study room,
common room and staff office.
The study room, which is open from 8am
until 6pm, is fully equipped with PCs and
MACs for students to help with quiet
study. There is also free Wi‐Fi across the
whole school, to ensure that students have
access to all of the learning materials they
Staff and learners see the Sixth Form
need. This area also has information
office as the 'hub' of the centre. Learners
regarding universities, tutor meetings and
say that they can talk to staff at any time
job opportunities.
with absolute confidence and that they
will get the help and support that they
need, including mentoring and additional
tutoring. Ofsted 2016
3
CURRICULUM AND
EMPLOYABILITY
In addition, a week is set aside in January
for all Year 12 students to complete work
experience. This is a highly successful
programme which helps students
develop the work skills needed in their
future careers. To help support this, all
Year 12 students attend Skills lessons,
where they work on writing a CV and
application forms.
Leaders ensure that learners have
The ethos of Caludon Sixth Form is one access to a wide range of independent
of guided choice both in terms of advice, including visits from and to local
curriculum and future pathways. universities and those further afield.
Learners are very well supported in
Students are offered a full range of making their selections and applications
academic and vocational qualifications, for universities or employment
to ensure that they are able to access
their pathway of choice. Most of our Ofsted 2016
students choose to move onto
university, however an increasing To help students further with
number are moving into higher level applications, Caludon Sixth Form uses
apprenticeships. Unifrog, which links to UCAS, the
National Apprenticeship Service and
To support students we have a governmental organisations to provide
leadership team member who oversees the most up‐to‐date information.
the Information, Advice and Guidance Students and parents are given training
(IAG) linked with the Sixth Form. There on Unifrog and many students use the
are termly IAG newsletters, which online service to help write their UCAS
include sections on university, applications.
apprenticeships and work placements in
each edition. There are careers fairs each Throughout the year we have visiting
term which attract around 15‐20 speakers from universities and
different providers; visits to local apprenticeship providers; potential
universities throughout the year; a visit Oxbridge students complete visits to
to the skills show; UCAS and help support their applications and in the
apprenticeship application training and summer, all Year 12 students are given
Twitter is used regularly to inform the opportunity to visit Birmingham
students of opportunities. University.
4
ENRICHMENT AND
6th FORM SOCIETIES
Caludon Sixth Form has a strong careers
and enrichment programme which
enables students to develop a range of
work skills. These enhance students’ Students also have the opportunity to
university applications, enhance their become involved in student leadership.
C.V.s and, if applying for an Positions include head boy and girl,
apprenticeship, show employers a range membership of a committee (prom, social,
of skills, which are beyond academic. environment and equality) or our team, who
organise charity events throughout the year.
At Caludon this programme is called the
‘Sixth Form Experience’. This comprises We have a growing number of Sixth Form
3 compulsory modules and a range of Societies (SFS), including chess and a variety
other opportunities. of sports clubs.
In Year 12 enrichment is compulsory Lastly we are a Unifrog Beacon School and
and gives the students the opportunity students are able to work towards becoming
to take part in an activity which benefits Unifrog champions. Unifrog is an online
the local community, be that the school careers and enrichment platform and
or beyond. Students must complete 25 students can earn enrichment hours by
hours during the year, however most achieving this.
students complete many more than this.
Year 12 students also complete a week’s
work experience which allows students
Sixth Form
to develop work skills, explore potential Societies
career options and, for those students
considering an apprenticeship, can often
lead to job offers. Unifrog Student
Champions Leadership
The last compulsory module consists of
weekly Skills lessons, which cover a
Sixth Form
range of topics including careers, current Experience
affairs, life skills and also gives the
students the opportunity to complete
the AS level Extended Project Skills Lessons
Enrichment
and EPQ
Qualification (EPQ), which allows Programme
students to do independent research on
a topic of their choice. Work
Experience
5
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
for Level 3 courses
Standard requirements = 5 x level 2 qualifications: GCSEs at level 4 or above or BTECs at a pass
or above, including at least grade 4 in English and Mathematics .
Additional requirements are listed in the table but we are flexible in our approach and look at
each application on its merits, with the aim of helping each individual student achieve the best
possible grades.
AS and A level Requirements Preferred
Subjects
Art and Design GCSE grade 5 in Art and Design. GCSE grade 6 in Art and
design.
If students have not taken GCSE Art and Design and
wish to opt for the subject students are required to
bring a portfolio of work they have done in their
spare time and show the leader of Art.
Biology GCSE grade 6 in Biology or GCSE grade 6 in Double
Science and grade 5 in Maths.
Chemistry GCSE grade 6 in Chemistry or GCSE grade 6 in
Double Science and grade 5 in Maths.
Computer Science GCSE Grade 6 in either Computer Science and a
grade 5 in Maths
Drama and Theatre Standard requirements
Studies
Economics 5 grade 5s including grade 5 in Maths and English 5/6 in Geography, History, B
in Sociology if taken
English Language GCSE grade 6 in English Language GCSE grade 6 in English
Literature
English Language and GCSE grade 5 in both English Language and English GCSE grade 6 in at least one
Lit Literature of English Language or
Literature
English Literature GCSE grade 6 in English Literature GCSE grade 6 in English
Language
French Minimum of GCSE grade 6 in French 5 grade 5s, including grade 5
in English and Maths
Geography 5 grade 5s or equivalent including grade 5 in English Grade 5 in Science
or Maths and Geography.
History GCSE Grade 6 in History and a 6 in English Language Grade 6 in English Literature
or Literature with a grade 5 in the other English and Language
GCSE.
Mathematics Grade 7 at GCSE Maths
Further Mathematics Grade 7 at GCSE Maths Grade 8 or above at GCSE
Core Mathematics (AS GCSE Grade 5
level only)
6
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
CONTINUED
A level Subjects Requirements Preferred
Media Studies 5 GCSE subjects at grade 5 or above Grade 6 in English. Experience of
GCSE Media studies isn’t essential
but is beneficial
Moving Image Standard school requirements
Philosophy and Grade 5 in English Language Grade 5 in English Literature and
Ethics History if taken
Photography Standard school requirements
Physics GCSE grade 6 in Physics or GCSE grade 6 in
Double Science and grade 6 in Maths, as well as
a commitment to post GCSE Maths study
Product Design GCSE grade B in Resistant Materials and a grade GCSE grade 5 in English and Maths
5 in Maths. grade 6
If students have not taken GCSE Resistant
Materials, but have a GCSE grade 6 in Art and
Design and wish to opt for the subject then
students may be considered but are required to
bring a portfolio of design work to show the A
level subject teachers
Psychology 5 GCSEs at grade 5 or above, including at least a
grade 5 in English, Mathematics and Biology or
Double science.
Sociology 5 GCSEs at grade 5 or above, including a grade
B in Sociology (if studied) and a grade 5 in
English
Spanish Minimum of GCSE grade 6 in Spanish 5 grade 5s, including grade 5 in
English and Maths
7
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
(APPLIED GENERAL
LEVEL 3 COURSES)
Applied Requirements Preferred
General
Subjects
Business BTEC Standard requirements Grade 5 in Maths (– 34% of final grade is
from Finance exam)
Health and Social Standard requirements
Care BTEC
Information Standard requirements
Technologies
Cambridge Technical
Computing BTEC GCSE grade 5 Computer Science or ICT GCSE grade 5 Computer Science
Music 5 in GCSE music or Merit at BTEC Music
Level 3 Certificate At least a GCSE grade 5 in Double Science
Science Applied
Sport BTEC Standard requirements Grade 5 in GCSE PE. Merit in Sport OCR
National
Travel and Standard Requirements
Tourism BTEC
8RECENT UNIVERSITY
COURSE AND
APPRENTICESHIPS
University Course
Lancaster English, Medicine and Computer Science
Manchester Maths with Finance, Biology and Middle Eastern History
Birmingham City Marketing and Business
Birmingham Dentistry, Medicine, Law, Nursing and Modern Languages
Coventry Adult Nursing, Accountancy, Law, Politics French &
Spanish and Maths
Warwick Physics, Theatre Studies, Maths and International Business
Wolverhampton Public Health and Maths
Newcastle Mechanical Engineering
York History
Nottingham Psychology with Philosophy and Maths
De Montfort History, Int. Relations and Pharmacy
Leicester Computing. English, History, Maths, French and Spanish
Norwich Agriculture
Oxford Biological Sciences
Imperial College Maths
London
Kings College Chemistry with Biomedicine, French and Philosophy
London
PWC Accountancy
Jaguar Land Rover Engineering
9ART AND DESIGN
“Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time.”
Thomas Merton
Exam Board Qualification Subject Entry Requirements
WJEC AS Level B651QSL GCSE grade 5 in Art and Design.
If students have not taken GCSE Art and Design and wish to opt
A level 1651QS for the subject, students are required to bring a portfolio of work
they have done in their spare time and show the leader of Art.
COURSE CONTENT AND
MEHOD OF ASSESSMENT
The Art department envisions developing both the A level
academic and cultural aspects of a student’s life. We Component 1: Personal Investigation (60% of
aim to develop the students in our lessons into qualification. 120 marks).
confident individuals who can use the power of the
visual language to explore issues, ideologies and A component of the course entitled ‘Personal
situations in a variety of ways. As the students Investigation’ is internally determined by learner
progress through the course we aim to develop and and teacher, internally assessed and externally
engender key learning habits (in particular risk taking moderated.
and perseverance) in order to create a learning
Component 2: Externally Set Assignment (40%
experience in art that the student will find
informative and memorable. We wish to develop of qualification. 80 marks)
students who will be able to explore and respond to A controlled examination component of the
all manner of influences during their work in the
course. Set by WJEC, internally assessed and
department, in a creative way. They will engage
externally moderated. The Externally Set
with this and develop in a disciplined manner at all
Assignment consists of two parts:
times, whilst retaining their individuality.
Part 1: Preparatory study period
AS Level
Component: ‘Personal Creative Enquiry’. 100% of Part 2: 15 hours of sustained focus work:
qualification/100 marks.
This course consists of one component. Referred to WHAT DOORS WILL IT
as the ‘Personal Creative Enquiry’ it is 100% of
qualification. The ‘Personal Creative Enquiry’ OPEN FOR ME?
consists of an extended, exploratory
project/portfolio and outcome/s based on themes AS and/or A level courses can lead to both
and subject matter which are personal and employment and higher education. Students can
meaningful to the learner. Work will be determined go on to study a wide range of courses such as:
by the learner and teacher, assessed by the teacher Art Foundation Courses (one year)
and externally moderated. No time limit: duration to Art Degree course (three years) (after a one year
be determined by the centre taking into account the Art Foundation Course).
AS or A level Art can also lead towards specific
May deadline for submission of internal marks to
areas of work (in graphic design studios, media,
WJEC.
ceramics, textiles, fashion, architecture, interior
design, etc) or towards teaching and art therapy,
when combined with other examination
successes
10BIOLOGY
“Biology is bigger than physics. It enjoys bigger budgets, a bigger workforce, and achieves
more major discoveries. Biology is likely to remain the biggest part of science through the
twenty‐first century.” Freeman Dyson.
Exam Board Qualification Subject Entry Requirements
AQA AS Level 7401 GCSE grade 6 in Biology or GCSE
A level 7402 grade 6 in Double Science and
grade 5 in Maths.
COURSE CONTENT, STRUCTURE METHOD OF ASSESSMENT
This course is a traditional A level covering the The AS level consists of 2 x 1 hour 30 minute
major topics in Biology. written papers and 6 specified practicals which
are tested in the exam. The A level consists of
3 x 2 hour papers and a further 6 specified
AS Level practicals which are tested in the exam.
Comprises 4 sections –
Biological molecules
Cells and immunology
WHAT DOORS WILL IT
Cardiovascular and breathing systems OPEN FOR ME?
Genetic information and relationships
between organisms A level Biology provides the chance to study a
broad range of biological topics providing a
A level
solid foundation for further study in a range of
The AS sections plus 4 additional sections –
related areas from medicine, nursing, pharmacy
Biochemistry of respiration and
and veterinary science to health related drug
photosynthesis
research and sports science based careers. The
Nervous system and the kidney
focus is on animal biology with the emphasis
Genetics and evolution
upon cell biology, genetics and whole organ
Gene expression and Forensic Science
physiology including, but by no means limited
to heart, lungs, kidney and nervous system.
Throughout the course, the medical and
forensic science applications of biological
processes are highlighted.
Student Comment:
“Biology is a very interesting subject and
very well taught and you get so much
extra support.”
11BUSINESS
“It takes 20 years to build a reputation and five minutes to ruin it. If you think about that,
you’ll do things differently.”
Warren Buffett
Exam Board Qualification Subject Entry Requirements
BTEC WXD12 Standard requirements
COURSE CONTENT, STRUCTURE Unit 14: Investigating Customer Service
How is excellent customer service linked to
AND METHOD OF ASSESSMENT business success? In this unit you will learn that
attracting new customers costs a business
This course is practical and is assessed through the more than keeping existing customers, so it is
application of skills and knowledge taught during important to keep existing customers happy.
the course. Each unit is assessed through You will cover how a business can do this by
examinations and assignments. building relationships with internal and external
customers and giving them excellent service
Unit 1: Exploring Business that exceeds their needs and expectations.
This is an introductory unit which covers the
purposes of different businesses, their structure, the This unit is assessed through a variety of
effect of the external environment, and how they assignments which require students to
need to be dynamic and innovative to survive. investigate the customer service provided by a
business as well as demonstrating their ability
This unit is assessed through a variety of to provide effective customer service.
assignments which require students to investigate a
minimum of two businesses. WHAT DOORS WILL IT
Unit 2: Developing a Marketing Campaign OPEN FOR ME?
This unit investigates how a marketing campaign is
developed. It explores the different processes that a BTEC Business can offer a number of career
business goes through when developing its choices including accountancy, marketing,
campaign from initial market research through to business administration, human resource
the production of marketing materials. management and retail management.
BTEC Business can lead to degrees in Business
Assessment is through an externally set assignment Studies, Business and Management and
which is completed in controlled conditions. Accountancy.
Students will be issued with a case study and are
required to complete a maximum of six hours
research. The research will then be used to
complete the assessment question in controlled
conditions.
Unit 3: Personal and Business Finance
Personal finance aspect of this unit involves the
understanding of why money is important and how
managing your money can help prevent future
financial difficulties, providing a vital understanding
of the financial decisions that you will need to take
throughout your life and how risk can affect you and
your choices. The business finance aspects of the
unit introduce you to accounting terminology, the
purpose and importance of business accounts and
the different sources of finance available to
businesses.
12DRAMA
“Whatever you can do or dream you can begin it.
Boldness has genius power and magic in it”
Goethe.
Exam Board Qualification Subject Entry Requirements
EDEXCEL 9DRO Standard requirements
COURSE CONTENT, STRUCTURE
This is a fun yet rigorous course which demands the
highest levels of commitment from candidates.
Students will be required to balance practical group
work with sophisticated written work. As a result,
the qualification is highly regarded by universities
and future employers.
A level
Component 1: Devising Performance
Part One:
This is a highly engaging unit which asks students to
‘devise’ or create their own piece of performance work. METHOD OF ASSESSMENT
The department choose the text, this must be used, as a
starting point, to create the work.
Component 1: Devising Performance 9DR0/01 40%
of the qualification assessed through practically
Part Two
based coursework including a performance and with
All students must produce a portfolio documenting and
written supporting evidence.
reflecting on their exploratory process and the skills and
Component 2: Text in Performance 9DR0/02 20% of
techniques that they have developed in response to the
the qualification assessed through performance
text and the influence of their chosen theatre
examination
practitioner.
Component 3: Theatre Makers in Practice 9DR0/03
40% of the qualification assessed through written
Component 2: Text in Performance
examination
This is a practical performance examination of two
pieces of work and is performed and marked by a WHAT DOORS WILL IT
visiting examiner. There will be some flexibility but
students will need to choose two options from a choice OPEN FOR ME?
of play texts. The first performance is a short monologue
(solo performance) or duologue (with two performers) Previous students have gone on to pursue careers
from a published play text. The second performance is in theatre, media, advertising, social work, teaching,
to perform with a larger group of actors, on a longer sales and other careers which necessitate effective
extract, from a contrasting play from our list. communication and creative skills. Although Drama
is not a specified A level subject for some of the top
Component 3: Theatre Makers in Practice
universities, recent research has shown that a
The written examination in the final year draws
proportionately high number of students at top
together the various strands of the course so far. It is
universities had studied Drama at A level.
comprised of three sections.
In section A, students write about a contemporary
play or production that they have seen live. In
section B, students will refer to another selected play Student Comment:
and answer questions about how an extract from this “A level Drama has really helped push me out of
play might be realised on stage as a performer or my comfort zone. Its made me approach things in
designer. a different way, made me do tasks quickly and
Finally, in section C, students will each have their have the final product look effective and convey
own concept for a hypothetical staging of the chosen a message.”
play that is influenced by a theatre practitioner.
13CHEMISTRY
“The country which is in advance of the rest of the world in chemistry will also be foremost in
wealth and in general prosperity.”
William Ramsay
Exam Board Qualification Subject Entry Requirements
OCR AS Level H032 GCSE grade 6 in Chemistry or
A level H432 GCSE grade 6 in Double Science
and grade 5 in Maths.
COURSE CONTENT, STRUCTURE METHOD OF ASSESSMENT
The specification is divided into chemical topics, AS Qualification
each containing different key concepts of Breadth in chemistry (01)* 70 marks 1 hour 30
Chemistry. Once the key features of a chemical minutes written paper 50% of total AS level
topic have been developed, applications are Depth in chemistry (02)* 70 marks 1 hour 30
considered. The teaching of practical skills are minutes written paper 50% of total AS level
integrated with the theoretical topics and are Both components assess content from all four
assessed both in the written examination and in modules.
class. A level Qualification
Periodic table, elements and physical chemistry (01)
AS Level 100 marks 2 hours 15 minutes written paper 37%
Module 1 – Development of practical skills in of total A level
chemistry • Practical skills assessed in a written Synthesis and analytical techniques (02) 100
examination marks 2 hours 15 minutes written paper 37% of
Module 2 – Foundations in chemistry • Atoms, total A level
compounds, molecules and equations • Unified chemistry (03) 70
Amount of substance • Acid–base and redox marks 1 hour 30 minutes written paper 26% of
reactions • Electrons, bonding and structure total A level
Module 3 – Periodic table and energy • The periodic Practical endorsement in chemistry (04) (non
table and periodicity • Group 2 and the halogens • exam assessment) Reported separately
Qualitative analysis • Enthalpy changes • Reaction Component 01 assesses content from modules 1,
rates and equilibrium (qualitative) 2, 3 and 5. Component 02 assesses content from
Module 4 – Core organic chemistry • Basic modules 1, 2, 4 and 6. Component 03 assesses
concepts • Hydrocarbons • Alcohols and content from all modules (1 to 6).
haloalkanes • Organic synthesis • Analytical
techniques (IR and MS)
WHAT DOORS WILL IT
A level
Module 5 – Physical chemistry and transition OPEN FOR ME?
elements • Reaction rates and equilibrium
(quantitative) • pH and buffers • Enthalpy, entropy Chemistry is a challenging, academic and
and free energy • Redox and electrode potentials • rigorous A level that will impress many
Transition elements universities/employers. Chemistry can lead to
Module 6 – Organic chemistry and analysis • many careers in healthcare such as medicine,
Aromatic compounds • Carbonyl compounds • pharmacy and dentistry. It can be useful in
Carboxylic acids and esters • Nitrogen compounds • careers in the biological sciences, physics,
Polymers • Organic synthesis • Chromatography mathematics, pharmacology and analytical
and spectroscopy (NMR) chemistry. Chemistry is also taken by many Law
applicants as it shows you can cope with
difficult concepts.
14COMPUTER SCIENCE
“There are 10 kinds of people in the world: those who understand binary numerals, and those
who don't.”
Ian Stewart A level
Exam Board Qualification Subject Entry Requirements
OCR H446 GCSE Grade 6 in either Computer
Science and a grade 5 in Maths
COURSE CONTENT, STRUCTURE METHOD OF ASSESSMENT
AS Qualification
This course is a traditional style A level, as favoured • 50% Unit 01 ‐ 1 ¼ hours’ written examination.
by many of the top universities. It focuses on the • 50% Unit 02 ‐ 1 ¼ hours’ written examination.
underlying theory behind computing as well as the
application. It gives students a wide range of
progression options into employment or further A level Qualification
study, either in related disciplines or as a source of • 40% Unit 01 ‐ 2 ½ hours’ written examination.
UCAS points. • 40% Unit 02 ‐ 2 ½ hours’ written examination.
• 20% Unit 03 or 04 – non‐exam assessment.
AS Level
Computing Principles (01)
The characteristics of contemporary processors,
input, output and storage devices; Software and
software development; Programming; Exchanging
data; Data types, data structures and algorithms;
WHAT DOORS WILL IT
Legal, moral, ethical and cultural issues OPEN FOR ME?
Algorithms & Problem Solving (02) Computer Science gives students a wide range of
Elements of computational thinking; Problem solving progression options into further study, training or
and programming; Algorithms relevant employment. Students who successfully
complete the qualification will be well equipped
A level to move onto degrees in related subjects such as
Computer Systems (01) ICT, Computer Science, Information Systems,
The characteristics of contemporary processors, Multimedia, Software Engineering, Computer
input, output and storage devices; Software and Networking, e‐Business and Information
software development; Exchanging data; Data Management.
types, data structures and algorithms; Legal, moral,
cultural and ethical issues
Algorithms & Programming (02)
Elements of computational thinking; Problem solving
and programming; Algorithms to solve problems and
standard algorithms
Programming Project (03 or 04)
Analysis of the problem; Design of the solution;
Developing the solution; Evaluation
Student Comment:
“This subject allows me to develop my
programming skills so my job opportunities
in later life are greatly enhanced”
15COMPUTER SCIENCE
“Treat your password like your toothbrush. Don't let anybody else use it, and get a new one every six months.”
Clifford Stoll
Exam Board Qualification Subject Entry Requirements
EDEXCEL 601/7341/5 GCSE grade 5 Computer Science or
ICT
COURSE CONTENT, STRUCTURE METHOD OF ASSESSMENT
Y12
This course is practical and is assessed through the ∙ 25% Unit 2 – 1 hour 45 minutes written
application of skills and knowledge taught during examination.
the course. Each unit is assessed through ∙ 25% Unit 7 – externally assessed coursework.
examinations and assignments. Y13
∙ 33% Unit 1 – 2 hours’ written examination.
Year 12 ∙ 17% Unit 6 – internally assessed coursework.
Unit 2: Fundamentals of Computer Systems
In this unit, you will explore the relationship
between hardware and software as part of a WHAT DOORS WILL IT
computer system. You will examine the way
computer components work both individually and OPEN FOR ME?
together to store and process data, and the way in
which data is transmitted and used in computer Computer Science gives students a wide range
systems. of progression options into further study,
training or relevant employment. Students who
Unit 7: IT Systems Security and Encryption successfully complete the qualification will be
In this unit, you will investigate the many different well equipped to move onto degrees in related
types of security attack, the vulnerabilities that exist subjects such as ICT, Computer Science,
and techniques that can be used to defend the IT Information Systems, Multimedia, Software
systems of organisations. Many organisations run Engineering, Computer Networking, e‐Business
complex IT networks and need them to be secure and Information Management.
while providing a safe environment for their
employees to work, sharing some data and keeping
other data private.
Year 13
Unit 1: Principles of Computer Science
In this unit, you will explore the logical and
structured ways that computer systems process
data to develop programs, processes and systems
that solve specific problems. You will examine the
features of effective computer programming and
apply accepted computing and programming
paradigms.
Unit 11: Digital Graphics and Animation
In this unit, you will cover the fundamental
principles of digital graphics and animation. You will
explore the implications of representing graphics in Student Comment:
digital form and the processes and techniques used
“The course is very specific to
to develop effective digital graphics and animation.
You will design, create, test and review digital programming experiences that will help
graphics and animations, in readiness for inclusion in me in future”
a digital product, to meet a range of identified
requirements.
16ECONOMICS
"The difficulty lies not so much in developing new ideas as in escaping
from old ones”
John Maynard Keynes
Exam Board Qualification Subject Entry Requirements
AQA AS Level 7135 5 grade 5s including grade 5 in
A level 7136 Maths and English
COURSE CONTENT, STRUCTURE METHOD OF ASSESSMENT
AS Qualification
It is an exciting time to study Economics. Many of •Unit 3.1: 90 minute exam worth 70 marks
the most important issues facing society are (50%)
economic in nature. Whether you are concerned
•Unit 3.2: 90 minute exam worth 70 marks (50%)
with global warming or global trade, whether you
are looking at the collapse of world financial
markets or of your neighbour's small business, you A level Qualification
can't get far without a knowledge of economics. •Unit 4.1: 2 hour exam worth 80 marks
The course aims to stimulate your interest in how (33.3%)
economies work. •Unit 4.2: 2 hour exam worth 80 marks
(33.3%)
.Economic principles and issues: 2 hour exam
This course is a traditional A level. It is an exam
worth 80 marks (33.3%)
based subject which includes a mix of short answer
and essay based questions. Students are also
required to read around the subject.
WHAT DOORS WILL IT
OPEN FOR ME?
AS ‐ Microeconomics
Students will be required to acquire knowledge and Economists are employed in a variety of settings
understanding of a selection of microeconomic in both the public and private sectors.
models and to apply these to current problems and Economics graduates also find employment in
issues. areas such as:
•banks (high street and city);
•charitable and not‐for‐profit organisations;
AS ‐ Macroeconomics •consultancies;
Students will be required to use their •insurance and accountancy firms;
microeconomic knowledge from unit 3.1 and apply •government departments and think tanks.
it to show knowledge of the macroeconomy.
A level ‐ Microeconomics
This builds on the microeconomics in unit 3.1 by
studying the main market structures, the labour
market and the distribution of wealth
A level ‐ Macroeconomics
Students will develop their macroeconomic
knowledge by studying financial markets, fiscal
policy and supply side policies along
17ENGLISH LANGUAGE
“Its very variety, subtlety, and utterly irrational, idiomatic complexity makes it possible to say
things in English which simply cannot be said in any other language.”
Robert A. Heinlein
Exam Board Qualification Subject Entry Requirements
OCR AS Level H070 GCSE grade 6 English Language and grade
A level H470 6 in English Literature is recommended
COURSE CONTENT, STRUCTURE
This course has been developed to include relevant, Alongside this, students will also explore the
engaging and up‐to‐date content that reflects growing nature of the English language,
contemporary language study. You will be discovering the ways in which language has
introduced to the study of English in its various developed since the Celtic invasion, up until the
forms and contexts, with the concepts and methods current day. They will study the ways in which
appropriate for the analysis of language different political, social and technological
underpinning all elements of the course. advances affect our language as well as the
different attitudes held towards each of these.
AS Level
During the first year of study, students will explore a
variety of text types, uncovering the ways in which METHOD OF ASSESSMENT
language is used within these in order to express
messages. The first year of study will allow students to
learn the different frameworks and approaches to Independent Language Research (20% of
language study which is vital for each element of their A‐level/ 100 marks)
linguistic analysis. Students produce 2 pieces of coursework
which are assessed by teachers and moderated
Students will also explore the theories which underpin by the exam board.
the English language, considering how we can change Students will produce a language investigation
our language depending on gender, power and into a topic of their choosing, collecting and
location. Gender studies uncover the different ways in exploring their data. They will then complete a
which men and women interact with one another, second piece of work which allows them to
whilst studies of power allow students to study the express their findings in a more creative
different ways in which language can be manipulated manner through an academic poster.
for purpose.
A level WHAT DOORS WILL IT
The main focus of the second year of study is based OPEN FOR ME?
around child language acquisition and the
developing English language. Students will learn the Possible career choices: A level English can
different ways in which children acquire language build pathways into law, recruitment,
and communicate with one another and with journalism, advertising, teaching and the public
caregivers. sector.
Student Comment:
“English Languuage was a great introduction to
writing skills that were crucial when I studied History
at university. It taught me how to approach reading a
large number of texts for assignments, how to read
texts critically and how to structure my essays in a
clear manner that was easy to read.”
18ENGLISH LITERATURE
“When I look back, I am so impressed again with the life‐giving power of literature. If I were a young person
today, trying to gain a sense of myself in the world, I would do that again by reading, just as I did when I was
young.”
Maya Angelou
Exam Board Qualification Subject Entry Requirements
AQA A level 7717 GCSE grade 6 in English Literature and
grade 6 in English Language is
recommended
COURSE CONTENT, STRUCTURE METHOD OF ASSESSMENT
The study of English develops independent thinkers Paper 1: Literary genres (40% of A‐level /75
who love debate and exploring literature, as well as marks)
helping you to write fluent and coherent answers to Aspects of tragedy: The study of one Shakespeare
challenging questions. English Literature explores text; a second drama text and one further text, of
ideas relating to ethics, identity, history and which one must be written pre‐1900
philosophy through the study of writers such as Assessed by a closed book written exam: 2 hours
Shakespeare, Arthur Miller, John Keats, Margaret 30 minutes
Attwood, Jim Crace and William Blake. We consider Section A: one passage based question on set
not only the written word but also socio‐cultural Shakespeare text (25 marks)
influences, the context in which the texts were Section B: one essay question on set Shakespeare
written and the biography of the writer.. text (25 marks)
Section C: one essay question linking two texts (25
AS Level and A level marks)
The English Literature course at Caludon is a two‐
year linear course with all examinations completed Paper 2: Texts and genres (40% of A‐level/ 75
at the end of the second year of study. marks)
Elements of political and social protest writing: The
In their first year of study, students are exposed to study of three texts: one post‐2000 prose text; one
the critical theory which explores literary texts from poetry and one further text, of which one must be
a variety of perspectives. This will then support their written pre‐1900
own study of a range of texts: poetry, plays and Assessed by an open book written exam: 3 hours
prose. Section A: one compulsory question on an unseen
passage (25 marks)
Across the two years, students will explore both Section B: one essay question on set text (25
class and contemporary texts, allowing them to marks)
immerse themselves in a range of texts from the Section C: one essay question which connects two
‘tragedy’ genre of English Literature. texts (25 marks)
Non‐exam assessment: Theory and independence
WHAT DOORS WILL IT (20% of A‐level/50 marks)
OPEN FOR ME? Study of two texts: one poetry and one prose text,
informed by study of the Critical anthology
Possible career choices: A level English can build Assessed by the production of two essays of 1,250–
pathways into law, recruitment, journalism, 1,500 words, each responding to a different text
advertising, teaching and the public sector. and linking to a different aspect of the Critical
anthology
One essay can be re‐creative. The re‐creative piece
will be accompanied by a commentary.
Assessed by teachers and moderated by AQA
19ENGLISH LIT AND LANG
"For some of us, books are as important as almost anything else on earth. What a miracle it is that out of these small, flat,
rigid squares of paper unfolds world after world after world, worlds that sing to you, comfort and quiet or excite you. Books
help us understand who we are and how we are to behave. They show us how to live and die.”
Anne Lamott
Exam Board Qualification Subject Entry Requirements
AQA A level 7707 GCSE grade 5 in both English Language and
English Literature, a GCSE grade 6 in at least
one of these subjects is preferred
COURSE CONTENT, STRUCTURE
This course has been designed with a focus on the A level
integration of language and literature, enabling you Paper 1: Telling Stories (40% of A‐level/100 marks)
to see how linguistic and literary methods are Remembered Places and Poetic Voices prose
related and to explore these links in their work. You Assessed by a written exam: 3 hours
will study four texts covering drama, poetry and Section A – Remembered Places. This section is
prose by writers such as Arthur Miller, Carol Ann closed book.
Duffy, Margaret Attwood and F. Scott Fitzgerald. One compulsory question on the AQA Anthology:
Paris (40 marks)
AS Level Section B – Imagined Worlds. This section is open
book.
Paper 1: Views and Voices (50% of AS/75 marks) One question from a choice of two on prose set text
Imagined Worlds and Poetic Voices (35 marks)
Assessed by a closed book written exam: 1 hour 30 Section C – Poetic Voices. This section is open book.
minutes One question from a choice of two on poetry set
Section A – Imagined Worlds text (25 marks)
One compulsory question on prose set text (35
marks) Paper 2: Exploring Conflict (40% of A‐level/100
Section B – Poetic Voices marks)
One compulsory question on poetry set text (40 Writing about Society and re‐creative writing based
marks) on set texts
Assessed by an open book written exam: 2 hours 30
Paper 2: People and Places (50% of AS/75 marks) minutes
Remembered Places and Re‐creative Writing Section A – Writing about Society.
Assessed by a closed book written exam: 1 hour 30 One piece of re‐creative writing using set text (25
minutes marks)
Section A – Remembered Places Critical commentary (30 marks)
One compulsory question on the AQA Anthology: Section B – Dramatic Encounters.
Paris (40 marks) One question from a choice of two on drama set
Section B – Re‐creative Writing text (45 marks)
One piece of re‐creative writing using extract WHAT DOORS WILL IT OPEN
provided in Section A (15 marks)
Critical commentary (20 marks) FOR ME?
All jobs are to do with communications and
METHOD OF ASSESSMENT relationships. Analysing detail and organising ideas
Non‐exam assessment: Making Connections (20% are crucial skills in many areas of work. The study
of A‐level/50 marks) of English is recognised as not only furnishing
students with skills in communication,
A piece of coursework (2,500 – 3,000 words) interpretation and debate, it also provides a
which is assessed by teachers and moderated by springboard into a wide range of university and
AQA. It is a personal investigation that explores a career choices, including teaching, journalism,
specific technique or theme in both literary and advertising and the public sector.
non‐literary discourse
20GCSE ENGLISH
"Employers care about the quality of English skills people have…They told us about the type of knowledge and
skills which hold real currency and support the success of their businesses.”
David Russell
Exam Board Qualification Subject Entry Requirements
AQA GCSE 8300 Not achieving a grade 4 at GCSE
COURSE CONTENT, STRUCTURE
AND METHOD OF ASSESSMENT
Paper 1 Paper 2
Written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes Written exam: 1 hour 45 minutes
80 marks 80 marks
50% of GCSE 50% of GCSE
Section A: Reading
(40 marks) (25%) – one single fiction text Section A: Reading
1 short form question (1 x 4 marks) (40 marks) (25%)
2 longer form questions (2 x 8 marks) Two linked texts ‐ one non‐fiction text and one
1 extended question (1 x 20 marks) literary non‐fiction text
1 short form question (1 x 4 marks)
2 longer form questions (1 x 8, 1 x 12 marks)
Section B: Writing Section B: Writing
(40 marks) (25%)Descriptive or narrative writing; (40 marks) (25%)
1 extended question, 24 marks for content, Writing to present a viewpoint
16 marks for technical accuracy) 1 extended writing question (24 marks for
content, 16 marks for technical accuracy)
WHAT DOORS WILL IT
OPEN FOR ME?
This is an important qualification which is
valued highly by employers as all jobs
require us to have good communication
skills. Most jobs will call for us to be able
to have a good understanding of written
materials and to be able to express
ourselves clearly both in writing and
orally. A grade 4 in English Language is a
prerequisite for many college courses and
for all university courses.
21FRENCH
"Young people considering their future subject choices should be made more aware of
the benefits to their careers that can come from studying a foreign language."
Katja Hall
Exam Board Qualification Subject Entry Requirements
AQA AS Level 7135 Minimum of grade 6; 5 grade 5s
A level 7136 including grade 5 in Maths and
English preferred
COURSE CONTENT, STRUCTURE METHOD OF ASSESSMENT
Languages are all around us; they are used in so Individual research project
many situations whether at work, on holiday or just Students identify a subject or key question based
casually in day‐to‐day life ‐ we live in a multilingual on a country/ community where Spanish is
global society. Learning a language is a never‐ending spoken. Students select information from sources
process; languages are constantly changing, bringing including the Internet. Students present findings
in new words and getting rid of old ones. Languages and discuss in the speaking assessment.
at A‐level offer you a fantastic opportunity to work
towards becoming a linguist and the broad range of Assessment: AS Qualification
skills which you gain from studying a language at A‐ Paper 1 Listening, reading and writing (including
level are incredibly important tools to have under translation into English).
your belt. Paper 2 Writing (translation into French and essay
about film or book).
AS Level Paper 3 speaking test (discussion of a sub theme
Aspects of French speaking society: current trends based on a card).
• The changing nature of family
• The ‘cybersociety’ A level Qualification
• The place of voluntary work Paper 1 Listening, reading and writing (translation
Artistic Culture in the French speaking world into English and into French)
• A culture proud of its heritage Paper 2 An essay about a book plus an essay about
• Contemporary francophone music a film or second book
• Cinema: the 7th art form Paper 3 Speaking test (discussion of one topic and
presentation of individual research)
One text or film from a prescribed list
A level
WHAT DOORS WILL IT
As above plus: OPEN FOR ME?
Aspects of French speaking society: current issues
• Positive features of a diverse society Linguists are in short
• Life for the marginalised supply in our global
• How criminals are treated economy. French A
Aspects of political life in the French speaking level opens up plenty of
world job opportunities in
• Teenagers, the right to vote and political business, education,
commitment communication, law and
• Demonstrations, strikes – who holds the power? many other sectors with
• Politics and immigration international links. It is
also valued by
One text ( or if text studied in Year 12, one film or a universities as it
second text) demonstrates many
academic skills, as well
Individual research project for speaking assessment as the ability to
communicate.
22GEOGRAPHY
“Geography students hold the key to the world's problems“
Michael Palin
Exam Board Qualification Subject Entry Requirements
AQA AS Level 7036 5 grade 5s or equivalent including
A level 7037 5s in English or Maths and
Geography.
COURSE CONTENT, STRUCTURE METHOD OF ASSESSMENT
AS Qualification
Geography is a pretty unique subject because it Component one: 1 hour 30 minutes written exam
looks at both the physical structure of the (80 marks) 50% of the AS
planet and the social structure (i.e. how we affect Component two: 1 hour 30 minutes written exam
our environment and how it affects us) in the past, (80 marks) 50% of the AS
present and future. The new Geography course will
challenge your perceptions and stimulate you to A level Qualification
investigate and use analytical skills. The course Component one: 2 hours 30 minutes written exam
reflects the world today and investigates (96 marks) 40% of the A level
earthquakes, rivers, hazards, globalization, Component two: 2 hours 30 minutes written exam
population and urban environments. (96 marks) 40% of the A level
Component three: 3,000‐ 4,000 words (35 marks)
This course is a traditional A level. It is an exam 20% of the A level.
based subject which includes a mix of short answer
and essay based questions. Students are also WHAT DOORS WILL IT
required to read around the subject.
OPEN FOR ME?
AS Level
Component one: The water and carbon cycle AND An A‐Level in Geography leads itself favourably to
hazards. nearly any subject at degree level. Geography itself
is considered to be one of the most employable
Component two: Changing places AND Geography degrees due to the range of skills that you as a
fieldwork focusing on the skills required for geographer are required to have knowledge upon.
fieldwork. Careers in Geography can take you anywhere from
working for the army as a weather forecaster, to
A level town planning to working for the home office.
Component One: Water and carbon cycles AND
coastal systems AND hazards.
Component two: Global systems AND changing
places and either urban environments or population
or resource security.
Component three: Geographical investigation
Student Comment:
The topics studied allow me to have
a greater understanding of current
affairs in the news.
23HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE
It is one of the most beautiful compensations of this life that you cannot sincerely try to help another without
helping yourself.
Ralph Waldo Emerson
Exam Board Qualification Subject Entry Requirements
BTEC YGN78 Standard requirements.
COURSE CONTENT, STRUCTURE WHAT DOORS WILL IT
AND METHOD OF ASSESSMENT OPEN FOR ME?
The Health and Social Care sector is undergoing
Successful students can progress onto a variety
radical and rapid change. Developments in frontline
of university degree and diploma courses, or full
health and social care mean there's a demand for
time employment. Previous students have
well‐trained and multi‐skilled people across a range
followed careers in: teaching, nursing,
of rewarding employment opportunities. The course
physiotherapy, occupational therapy, animal
is two thirds coursework and so would suit students
husbandry, sports science and paramedical
who perform well in coursework assessment. It is a
courses; as well as non‐related courses such as
vocational course so students are required to apply
history, industrial architecture and geography.
their knowledge to health, social care or childcare
settings. Students who are able to experience
appropriate work based or voluntary experience in a
health, care or early years setting will be able to
bring their experience into their portfolio work.
BTEC Certificate BTEC Extended Certificate
Human Lifespan development : This unit will develop Working in Health and Social Care: This unit will help
your knowledge and understanding of patterns of you to understand what it is like to work in the health
human growth and development and the experience of and social care sector. When working for an
health and wellbeing. You will learn about factors that organisation in this sector, you will have important
can influence human growth, development and human responsibilities that you need to understand and carry
health. Some of these are inherited and some are out. These include maintaining the safety of and
acquired through environmental, social or financial safeguarding individuals with health and social care
factors during our lifespan. You will learn about a needs, making sure that you properly handle their
number of theories and models to explain and personal information and preventing discrimination
interpret behaviour through the human lifespan. This towards them.
unit is externally assessed.
Meeting individual care and support needs: For you to Psychological Perspectives: An important aspect of
be able to provide the care and support that working in the health and social care sector is to have a
individuals need, it is important that you have a good good understanding of the ways in which psychological
understanding of the principles behind providing development occurs in order to effectively meet the
quality care and support. This unit introduces you to individual needs of service users. Having knowledge of
the values and issues that need to be considered when the key concepts and ideas enables you to understand
planning care and support that meet the needs of an the ways in which development and behaviours occur.
individual in a health and social care environment. In In this unit, you will learn about the different
this unit, you will examine factors that can impact the psychological perspectives that have been put forward
professionals who provide the care and support, and and how these approaches have influenced thinking
the challenges that must be overcome to allow access and practices in meeting and supporting service user
to good quality care and health services. In this unit needs.
you will draw on your learning from across your
programme to complete assessment tasks.
24You can also read
