Art – A Level and AS Level
Entry requirements: GCSE grade ‘C’ or above plus a strong motivation towards Art and Design and a combination of creative and technical ability.The Advanced Subsidiary Award (AS) consists of practical units for coursework and exam and is designed to be completed in one year. The Advanced Award, A2, consists of the above units together with further A2 units.
Knowledge of art, craft and design will be gained through research and development from both primary and secondary sources, resulting in a folder of individual units. Candidates are required to participate actively in their course of study, recognising and developing their own strengths in the subject and identifying and sustaining their own lines of enquiry.
Students will be expected to spend a considerable amount of time, outside lesson time, developing their own personal assignments. Every piece of work produced is likely to be included in the overall examination mark and as such, should be treated as exam work.
Future opportunities: Potential Artists and Designers need to follow A level, with a one year Foundation Course at a College of Art and Design, before moving to a Honours Degree. A level Art and Design is also highly advisable for those thinking of careers in Fine Art, Graphics, Film, Video, Photography, Theatre, Fashion, Textiles, Architecture, Teaching and many other areas.
A level Art, combined with other Art subjects, will contribute towards a good general Arts Education. It is sometimes combined with science subjects for teaching (Craft, Design and Technology), Town Planning and Industrial Design.
Biology - A Level & AS Level
Entry Requirements: To commence studying for the AS level, Grade BB is ideally required in Double Award Science.In the first year, the course involves the study of three modules:
1. Core Principles (biological molecules, cell biology, enzymes, exchange mechanisms and digestion).
2. Genes and Genetic Engineering
3. Physiology and Transport (heart, blood, transport in plants).
All students will be entered for the AQA Syllabus AS level at the end of the lower sixth.
Those wishing to continue for the A2 level will study three further modules:
4. Energy, Control and Continuity
5. Environment
6. Microbes and Disease (Optional module)
Coursework in the form of an investigation is carried out during the AS year and also during the 5-day ecology field trip on Anglesey. Please note that all A2 students will need to attend the field trip and the expense must be covered by the student.
Future opportunities: AS/A2 is required for many science related Degree courses at Universities and Colleges, such as Medicine, Dentistry, Genetics, Veterinary Science, Food Science, Physiotherapy, Biotechnology, Horticulture, Agriculture, Paramedical professions and many more.
Business Studies AS and A2 level
The course is made up of 4 modules, 2 in the first year (leading to an AS qualification) and 2 in the second year (leading to the full A2 qualification).
The aim of the course is to introduce students to the various elements that are involved in business activity such as how businesses raise the money to operate and how they record how well (or badly!) they are doing.
How businesses market and sell their products/services; how businesses recruit, train, motivate their staff; how businesses decide where, what and how to produce; the factors that businesses have to take account of when making their decisions such as the state of the economy, government regulations etc.
The course will provide many opportunities for students to develop and display key skills.
Previous study: No previous study of the subject is required, but a willingness to keep up to date with current business events is essential as is an ability to deal with information presented in numerical/graphical form. Since the subject includes some numerate sections (particularly finance and accounting) students should have achieved a grade C or above in GCSE Maths.
Future opportunities: Business Studies at AS/A2 level enables students to get a taste of various areas of business which can lead on to careers in Finance and Accountancy, Personnel Management, Marketing and Selling, Management in general, banking, insurance, retailing, the leisure industry including travel and tourism. Many of our students move on to higher education and into some of the above careers after degree level.
Chemistry AS and A2 level
The A-level course in Chemistry builds upon the ideas you will have learnt and understood at GCSE. You can take it as an AS course and at the end of the first year you can then continue to A-level and develop your chemical knowledge and understanding further.During the course there is an emphasis on the place of chemistry in the modern world in areas such as industrial processes, pollution, bio-fuels, and analytical chemistry (as used for example in forensic science). You will be examined in two module tests in each year, and the practical and investigative assessment is an integral part of the A and AS course.
Previous study: Grade B or above in GCSE Chemistry or in ‘Core and Additional’ is a minimum basis. Grade C or above in mathematics is also required.
Future opportunities: Chemistry is studied by many simply because they enjoy the subject, but it does combine well with other subjects, particularly biology, maths and physics. Chemistry at A-level is a good preparation for any career since it provides skills which are needed in many professions. It is, however, essential for some university courses eg medicine, veterinary science, and pharmacy.
Child Development BTEC Level 3 Award
The award is taught in compulsory units and takes the equivalent time as an A level.
The BTEC National Award Level 3 in Children’s Care, Learning & Development, is taught in one ‘A’ level block. It offers a specialist qualification that focuses on particular aspects of employment within the appropriate vocational sector.
The BTEC National Award has been developed to provide:
Education & Training for Children’s Care, Learning & Development positions
A qualification for entry into employment in the Health & Social Care sectors
Progression Route to higher vocational qualifications such as Level 5
The BTEC National Award includes 60 hours of Work Experience as well as the compulsory units listed below.
Level 3 BTEC National Award in Children's Care, Learning & Development:
Unit Core unit
• 1 Positive relationships for Children's Care, Learning & Development
• 2 Positive Environment for Children's Care, Learning & Development
• 3 Promoting Children's Development
• 5 Safeguarding Children
38 Reflecting on Practice in the Children's Care, Learning & Development
sector
Enrichment Activities: 60 hours work experience
Design Technology AS and A2 level
Product Design is a good choice if you wish to pursue a career in graphic design, product design, fashion and the arts and engineering and in any other sphere which demands a high level of ingenuity, communication and problem solving.
3D Design – You will study a range of graphical techniques and communication methods coupled with working in a range of materials ranging from pewter and plastics through to paper and board.
Although this is not a pre-requisite for acceptance, previous experience of Design and Technology at GCSE level will provide a good foundation for this course.
However, imagination, originality, enthusiasm and a willingness to work exceptionally hard will be essential assets.
Assessment: AS Level
Unit 1 – Written paper 1hr 30 mins
Unit 2 – Coursework approximately 50 hours
Unit 3 – Written paper 2 hours
Drama & Theatre Studies AS and A2 level
This course follows on neatly from Drama at GCSE level. Although an advantage, it is not necessary to have done GCSE Drama to successfully complete the A-level syllabus.
The course is aimed at students who possess a love of performance work. It is ‘likely’ that throughout their time in school candidates will have taken part in school productions, performed assemblies or even been involved with Drama performances outside school. Whatever the case, an interest in ‘theatre’ is essential! During the course students study plays, perform two pieces of scripted work to an examiner, stage their own performance piece, visit the theatre and complete written exams.
The course is demanding but its practical nature means it is highly popular and enjoyable for motivated candidates.
Entry requirements: An English qualification(s) of at least Grade ‘C’ is essential. Students must also be able to work successfully with others as part of a team and relish the opportunity to present work to an audience. Theatre Studies is one subject whose scope extends beyond the school timetable.
Future opportunities: This course offers much more than a career in the theatre. The skills you will learn can lead to employment in just about any area you can think of. Team-work, communication, presentation, self-discipline and confidence play an important part in most jobs or areas of study.
Economics AS and A2 level
Economics is the study of how countries use their resources of land, labour and capital to produce goods and services which people want in order to increase their living standards and make them better off. It looks at the way in which market systems operate and how efficiently resources are used, as well as looking at how the economy as a whole operates in creating jobs, increasing peoples' material living standards and keeping problems such as inflation and unemployment under control.Previous study: No previous study of this subject is necessary, but an interest in current economic events (through newspapers, TV programmes etc) is important. Although the subject is not in itself mathematical at this level, a grade C or above in GCSE mathematics is required, as is a minimum grade C in English Language.
Future opportunities: Economics combines well with most other AS/A2 level subjects and is highly regarded by universities for entry onto degree courses in Economics and other related business and financial courses. In terms of careers, an economics qualification can be particularly useful for those considering entry into areas such as banking, insurance, accountancy, and management careers in general.
English AS and A2 level
Entry requirements – Students joining any of these courses are expected to have a grade C or above in both English Language and English Literature.Three AQA courses are offered by the English Department: English Literature, English and English Language. The ‘English Literature’ course involves study of at least twelve texts, including a Shakespeare play and other works by novelists, dramatists and poets. Extensive individual reading is now required. Visits to the theatre are an integral part of the course. Assessment is by examination and coursework for this year’s year 11.
The ‘English’ course (formerly known as ‘English Language and Literature’) combines a study of language skills – writing and understanding – with a study of literary texts from various periods. It is particularly suitable for those who enjoyed both GCSE Language and Literature. Assessment is by examination and coursework.
The ‘English Language’ course aims to combine learning about the nature and functions of language in human thought, in both theory and practice, with learning how to use English more effectively. It involves coursework (40% of the total A-level marks). Extensive individual reading is required.
Future opportunities: These courses are equally acceptable for entry into university or college for any Arts or Social Science degree course and also for many career areas including law, teaching, journalism, advertising, management and art and design.
Forensic Science BTEC Level 3 Award
A two year programme following six compulsory units.
What are BTEC Nationals?
These provide specialist work-related qualifications. You will learn skills that will be required in a wide range of employment opportunities. The BTEC National Award is equivalent to one A-level and you will be awarded 40, 80 or 120 UCAS points which are recognised by universities
What will I learn?
Studying throughout this course will require you to work on your own on many occasions. You will be given assignments to complete after a series of lessons, including practical work, self study and vocational visits. After a series of lessons you will complete the assignments in a given period of time. The assignments are built to allow you to access all grades.
The modules that you will take include:
• Fundamentals of Science
• Scientific Practical Techniques
• Criminology
• Criminal Psychology
• Forensic Evidence Collection and Analysis
• Genetic Fingerprinting
Geography AS and A2 level
Entry requirements: A good grade in GCSE Geography is an advantage but not a necessity. A keen interest in the subject is the essential requirement. The ability to write in detail is also important. Please note that fieldwork is an important part of the course and is assessed by exam. The course involves residential and day fieldwork in both the upper and lower sixth.Geography is the study of places and the interaction between people and the physical environment. Students of Geography gain an in-depth understanding of the character of landscapes and the impact of humans on them. It also involves investigating the social, political and economic environment. Geography A-level offers the opportunity of
in-depth field study where students can collect, analyse and present data thus sharpening their observation, measuring, recording and evaluation skills.
At AS level, Geography and Geology are closely linked and choosing both options would develop the students skills required to achieve a high grade in both subjects. It also has close links with Leisure Studies and Travel & Tourism.
Future opportunities: Geography can be continued to degree level either as a pure subject or in a course with a geographical component such as environmental science or planning. Geographers enter many professions such as civil service, journalism, teaching, travel and tourism, accountancy, meteorology, banking as well as jobs in the environmental area.
Graphic Communication
You will be introduced to a variety of experiences exploring a range of media, techniques and processes, including both traditional and new technologies.You will create a variety of practical projects which are linked through the exploration of particular themes, concepts, ideas, issues or approaches with written work based on some aspect of Graphic Communication.
This work will be in one or more areas including:
• illustration;
• advertising;
• packaging design;
• design for print;
• computer graphics;
• multimedia;
• web design;
• film;
• animation;
• video; and
• photography.
How will I be assessed?
A2 - Unit Three
Personal Investigation
Practical Unit with Written Element (1000-3000 words)
A2 - Unit Four
Externally Set Assignment -15 Hours (controlled test)
Greek & Roman Studies AS and A2 level
The course is aimed at those students who are interested in the Greek and Roman world, but who do not want to study Latin and Greek. It provides an introduction to the history, mythology, literature and culture of the ancient world, divided into three modules at AS and three at A2.Previous study: No knowledge of Latin or the ancient world is required, just the willingness to work and involve oneself in a new and different subject. Some ability in written English (GCSE grade 'C' or above) can be an advantage given the demands of essay-writing in the course.
Future opportunities: A wide range of courses is available at universities, allowing students to choose their own areas of interest in the ancient world. Careers for students of classics, as the subject is often called, are very varied ranging from the academic to industry, business, law and the public sector. Many students take Classics simply as an interesting and stimulating A-level which will provide them with a good grade and strong links with other arts subjects.
Health & Social Care
This course is offered as a 6 Unit Award comparable to 1 A-level or a 3 Unit Award comparable to an AS Award.Students following these broad courses of study will have the opportunity to
• Focus on particular pathways eg the Health
Services and/or Social Care.
• Cover a mixture of units from the theoretical to
the practical.
• Work towards a range of Higher Education
courses and career opportunities in the varied
areas of Health and Social Care.
Previous study: No specific combination at GCSE is required but an interest in the field is essential.
Future opportunities: These are vocation-related qualifications designed to help you get into University or Professional Training. This subject is for students considering careers in Health and Social Care eg Social Work, Community Work, Nursing, Occupational Therapy, Chiropody.
History AS and A2 level
From 2008 students will follow a modular History course. In the lower sixth, two AS units will be studied. In the upper sixth a further two units will be studied. The syllabus will be predominately Modern World History. The topics may include Nazi Germany, America and inter war years British History. At A2 one of the units will be a coursework unit which may allow pupils to research an area of History that is of interest to them. The second unit will be a “theme” based unit that will examine change over a period of time (approximately 100 years).For a more detailed description of the AS/A2 syllabus to be studied from 2008, please visit the History Department section of the school website Thornleigh online.
Previous study: To begin the A-level course students who have taken GCSE History must have obtained Grade A*-C. However, it is possible to begin A-level History without the GCSE provided the students' other GCSE grades (especially English) are predominantly A-C.
Future opportunities: A qualification in History is highly valued by Higher Education, while many careers "demand" or "expect" History, eg Solicitor, Broadcaster, Economist, Architect; many regard History as "very useful" eg Civil Service, Police, Journalism and some "show interest" in History qualifications eg Social Work, banking, insurance.
GCE in Applied ICT (Single)
Applied GCEs in Information and Communication Technology are designed to provide vocational alternatives to ‘A' level ICT and Computing. Using work-related contexts and extended project work, this applied course offers a broad introduction to ICT at an advanced level. What Will I Learn on this Course?
You will learn to be ICT capable, expanding your knowledge and understanding. You will learn how to problem solve and evaluate. This course is to give you a broad understanding of ICT and related issues. The emphasis is on the use of ICT in real organisations and you will become familiar with the application of ICT in a business environment.
Course Content & Method of Assessment
Assessment is primarily through coursework. The units below reflect our intended programme:
Year 1 – AS Award (3 mandatory units)
Unit 1 Using ICT to Communicate (portfolio) An analysis of standard commercial documents is followed by you creating a portfolio of your own work. You will learn how to use software tools and techniques to achieve the desired impact and describe communication technologies.
Unit 2 How Organisations use ICT (exam & portfolio) You will analyse a case study set by the exam board. Your investigation is of how an organization uses ICT and how it could better use ICT. In the exam, you answer questions about the work you have done.
Unit 3 ICT Solutions for Individuals and Society (portfolio) This unit sees you using of search engines to find information; assessing the impact of the availability of electronic information on individuals; using databases to find required information and analysing numeric data using spreadsheets.
Year Two – A2 Award (1 mandatory unit and 2* optional units)
Unit 9 Working to a Brief (exam & portfolio) This unit teaches you how to approach undertaking an ICT development project for a client. You will have to plan, log and evaluate what you do.
Unit 10 Numerical modelling using spreadsheets (portfolio)
Unit 11 Interactive Multimedia Products (portfolio)
Entry Requirements
Students are expected to have a minimum of four GCSEs grades A* to C. Grade C English Language is desirable, as you will be assessed on your hard copy and your evaluative skills will form a large portion of the marks. You do not need a GCSE in ICT.
Syllabus: OCR GCE in Applied ICT (single)
After The Course?
On completion of this course you will have an ‘A' level ICT qualification that will enable you move into higher education or various ICT related careers.
Latin AS and A2 level
The AS and A2 Latin courses are intended for those who have already studied Latin at GCSE. They include modules on various aspects of Latin literature, history and society as well as the familiar language skills of comprehension and translation.Previous study: Grade B or above at GCSE level.
Future opportunities: Latin combines well with History, English or a Modern Language. It is highly regarded by University faculties and is considered a mark of high intellectual ability by many employers. Latin students go on to a very wide range of careers such as Law, Journalism, Civil Service, Museum work or research and Business Management.
Leisure Studies
Leisure Studies is a course that offers an insight into the Leisure, Recreation and Sports industry.Areas of study include, the scale and structure of the leisure industry and the opportunity to organise an event. You will also carry out an in depth investigation into a current issue.
Leisure Studies can be combined well with 'A'-level Physical Education, Business Studies and Economics.
Previous study: No specific subject combination or GCSE's required but an interest in the Leisure and Recreation industry is essential.
Future opportunities: The Leisure and Recreation industry is one of the biggest growth areas of employment in this country. A qualification in this area can help you to get on to a university course or go into professional training. Anyone thinking about a career in Leisure Management, Sports Event Marketing and Promotion, or coaching should consider this course.
Mathematics AS and A2 level
Future opportunities are widely improved for students with higher qualifications in Mathematics. It is expected that students applying for courses in engineering, medicine, economics, pharmacy and psychology for example have Mathematics at Advanced level.Students who wish to study courses with Mathematics or just straight degrees in Mathematics will be required to also take Further Mathematics to Advanced level.
Course Structure – An AS course at Thornleigh Sixth Form will consist of 3 equally weighted modules: Core 1, Core 2 and Statistics.
Students who successfully complete the AS course will take another 3 equally weighted modules: Core 3, Core 4 and Mechanics. Further Maths students have a similar course structure, taking Decision Maths for AS and further studies in statistics or mechanics.
Previous study – Students considering taking Mathematics at AS or A2 need to have followed the Higher tier GCSE and achieved at least a B grade.
Media Studies AS and A2 level
Entry Requirements: Although the entry requirements are non-specific, students joining this course should consider the writing requirements. Therefore, a good grounding in English is an advantage and grade C or above in both English Language and English Literature at GCSE would be an advantage.Media Studies at AS and A2 aims to equip students with the necessary skills to deconstruct, analyse and evaluate much of the media that surrounds us in the modern world. In this course, you will learn the language of media, which will enable you to become skilled media analysts. The textual content will require you to study key areas such as Film and Broadcast Fiction, Documentary, Advertising and Marketing and British Newspapers.
Assessment is by both examination and practical production, which accounts for 50% of the AS mark. Your understanding of the key concepts of audience, representation, institutions, genre and narrative will be evident in the standard of practical production; this may take the form of a short film sequence or an advertising campaign, or a magazine cover – the choice is yours!
Future opportunities: This course is a must for students considering media courses at university and for entry into careers in the media in areas such as Journalism, TV and Radio, Advertising and Marketing.
Modern Languages AS and A2 level
This is a modular A level course leading to the Advanced subsidiary qualification after one year and A level after two years in French or Spanish.The course challenges students to consider issues of importance in contemporary society while at the same time allowing them to study in some depth the culture of a French/Spanish speaking country. At AS level the course will cover media, popular culture, healthy living and family and relationships and at A2 environment multiculturalism and social issues. You will be assessed on listening, reading, speaking and writing skills.
Future opportunities: Many of our students have continued with their languages at Universities or colleges of higher education. Students have gone on to study courses which combine Law and French, Sciences with Spanish and Business Studies with French or Spanish. More recently students have studied a language with Travel and Tourism. As well as improving employment prospects a knowledge of a foreign language can facilitate and enhance the enjoyment of foreign travel.
Previous study: You should have a grade A*, A or B in French or Spanish and have followed a course of study at higher tier.
Music Technology AS and A2
What will you be learning?Music Technology course encourages students, including those who do not play a traditional instrument, to explore their musicality and to create original material using technology. The course places an emphasis on practical work, but has been refined and updated with students completing tasks which focus upon styles of music that use technology.
Who can do it?
Students who have an interest in Music Technology and are perhaps looking to follow a career as a sound engineer, record producer or a career in the Music or Arts industry. There are many important opportunities in higher education, and many career possibilities for those proficient in handling music technology.
Entry requirements:
It is helpful for students who wish to study Music Technology to have a GCSE in music.
Students who have not studied GCSE music may be considered for the course if they show a strong interest in music and recording technology.
Philosophy AS and A2 level
Philosophy means the love of wisdom and knowledge. This course will introduce students to the theories and methods of Philosophy. It offers the opportunity to look at some of the explanations philosophers make to show what we can know for certain about the world and ourselves. The fundamental questions of Philosophy are interesting and challenging. Students will study and gain a thorough grounding in key philosophical concepts, themes, texts and techniques. They will develop their abilities to analyse and assess, construct and spot errors in arguments and reach coherent judgements in discussion and writing; and gain an understanding of some important philosophical texts and ideas thereby strengthening their capacity for reasoning and judgement. This course recognises that students mature during a two-year course of study.Previous study: No previous study of this subject is required but students should be able to show evidence that they are able to write coherently, relevantly and analytically (a grade B in English Language or Literature or History etc). It will appeal to students with lively and enquiring minds who are interested in developing their critical thinking skills.
Future opportunities: Students will gain an Advanced Subsidiary or full A-level in Philosophy. The course will equip students with a set of transferable skills which can be applied successfully not only to Philosophy but also to other academic subjects and any written theories and arguments they encounter in their everyday lives. As well as Higher Education Courses, the skill of tackling problems in a rational and logical fashion is welcomed in many careers including Law, Social Work, Civil Service, Politics, Business, Management and Teaching.
Physical Education AS and A2 level
The course takes a multi-disciplinary approach encouraging the development of different methods of enquiry. The focal point being the performer and performance. The course is very much based upon the interaction between theory and practice.Unit 1 – An introduction to physical education (anatomy and physiology and acquiring movement skills and contemporary issues in physical education). 60% of the total AS mark – 2 hour written paper worth 90 marks. This question paper has three sections with one question in each section. All questions are compulsory.
Section A (A & P) – Focuses on the impact of physical activity on the systems of the body and on young peoples participation and performance in physical activity as part of a balanced, active and healthy lifestyle.
Section B (acquisition of skill) – Focuses on the acquisition of movement skills that impact upon young peoples participation and performance in physical activity as part of a balanced, active and healthy lifestyle.
Section C (contemporary issues) – Focuses on physical activity as an intrinsically valuable and necessary experience in contemporary society. A knowledge and understanding of the socio-cultural factors impacting upon regular participation and the achievement of excellent in physical activity will enable candidates to appreciate the opportunities and pathways available for involvement in physical activity.
Unit 2 – Acquiring, developing and evaluating practical skills in physical education, 40% of the total AS mark. This section is marked out of 80
Candidates are assessed in two chosen activities from two different activity profiles.
The activity profiles are:
Athletic activities, combat activities, dance activities, invasion game activities, net-wall activities, striking and fielding activities, target game activities, gymnastic activities, outdoor and adventurous activities, swimming activities, safe and effective exercise activities. Candidates are assessed in their ability to select and perform skills consistently, precisely and with control and fluency in an applied environment.
Candidates will also be assessed by observing a live performance by another candidate in one of their own assessed activities. They will then consider the factors that make for an effective and efficient programme.
Physics AS and A2 level
The course followed will be the new AQA Physics course. This course will cover such topics as Mechanics, Electricity, Radioactivity and Nuclear Physics, Physical and Geometrical optics, electromagnetism and particle physics.Three modules completed in year 12 will constitute an AS award and a further 3 modules will extend the AS to a full A level.
Previous study: A grade B or above is needed in GCSE Physics or BB in Core and Additional Science. A high level of competency in Mathematics is also essential.
Future opportunities: Physicists are now in short supply and can demand high incomes. Physics also features prominently in many areas including Medicine, Pharmacy, Dentistry, Veterinary Science, Construction and more obviously Engineering.
Psychology AS and A2 level
Psychology is a popular A-level where theoretical learning is co-ordinated with practical activities and research. The department is well resourced providing up to date text books, reviews and British Psychological Society resources.Psychology can be defined as the scientific study of human behaviour, mind and experience. In studying these topics we are given an insight into the complex workings of the human mind and possible reasons that influence much of human behaviour. At AS and A2 level students will study a broad range of topics including: Memory, early social development, stress, social influence and psychopathology.
Previous study: No previous study of Psychology is required but because psychology is more of a science subject than an arts subject, students need at least a grade C in GCSE mathematics. The syllabus encourages students to develop essay writing skills, for this, a grade ‘B’ in an essay based subject (English Language, Literature, History, etc) is a prerequisite.
Future opportunities: The skills that you will develop are transferable and offer an excellent basis for university entrance to most degree courses. It is particularly useful for those students contemplating careers in personnel, teaching, nursing, social work, law, management and business. Psychology A-level also provides the starting point for many interesting psychology careers including clinical psychology, educational psychology and criminal psychology.
Religious Studies AS and A2 level
RationaleThe General Certificates of Education are part of the Level 3 provision of the National Qualifications Framework (NQF).
This Advanced GCE in Religious Studies draws its unit content from a range of different religions and beliefs and from a philosophical and ethical approach to religion. It is designed to develop an interest in and enthusiasm for a rigorous study of religion. The study of religion through this Advanced GCE requires students to demonstrate a breadth and depth of knowledge about those areas studied, as well as to make connections, integrate ideas and develop concepts.
This Advanced GCE in Religious Studies is designed to develop understanding of the principal methods by which religions and spirituality are studied and will draw upon the varied forms of creative expression in religious life.
In supporting the development of these areas, the specification also makes a significant contribution to enhancing the spiritual, moral, social and cultural education of students. Additionally, it supports the development of a range of key skills that will be of value to students during the programme and as they progress to either work or further studies.
In particular, the aims of the GCE qualifications in Religious Studies are to encourage students to:
• develop an interest in and enthusiasm for a rigorous study of religion
• treat the subject as an academic discipline by developing knowledge and understanding
appropriate to a specialist study of religion
• use an enquiring, critical and empathetic approach to the study of religion.
Summary of scheme of assessment
The Advanced Subsidiary (AS) consists of two units:
• one unit assessed by written examination (Unit 1) with a total examination time of 1 hour
45 minutes and one unit assessed by coursework (Unit 2), which is internally marked and externally moderated.
The A2 consists of a further two units:
• two units (Unit 3 and Unit 4) assessed by written examinations with a total examination
time of 3 hours.
The AS and A2 each constitute 50 per cent of the total assessment of the Advanced GCE in Religious Studies. It is expected that the AS units will normally be assessed at the end of the first year of a two year course. Separate certification for AS will be available for those who do not go on to take the full Advanced GCE. Examinations will be available in the June series only, with the exception of Unit 2, which will also be available in January.
Previous study: Students should be able to demonstrate that they can write coherently. A grade B in RE, English or History.
Future opportunities: This course develops skills that are easily transferable to a wide range of disciplines. You will learn to think analytically, to write fluently and to argue coherently. Previous students have gone on to study for careers in teaching, medicine, law, nursing, journalism and social work.
Sociology AS and A2 level
A-Level Sociology is a popular, challenging and stimulating academic subject. Sociology involves the study and explanation of human social life, groups and society. The course offers all the opportunity to actively explore and question the social world in which we live. At AS and A2 level, students will study a broad range of topics including: The Family, Education and Crime and Deviance.Studying Sociology will transform the way you view the world, develop your understanding of the way we live and help you to make sense of your own experiences within society.
Entry requirements: No previous study of Sociology is required. As Sociology involves the skill of essay writing, students must have evidence of effective writing skills and so a B is required in a subject that illustrates such skills (a grade 'B' in English Language, Literature, History, etc).
Future opportunities: Studying Sociology will open up a variety of career paths. For those who wish to continue their education at university, sociology is a widely accepted A-level for entry into Arts and Social Science degrees. Sociology can lead a pathway to many careers and is particularly suitable for the field of education, social work, police, public relations and many more.
Travel and Tourism AS and A2 level
Travel and Tourism is a course that offers an in depth insight into the Travel industry.Areas of study include world-wide travel destinations, marketing and customer service. The impact of tourism developments and preparing for employment in Travel and Tourism are also covered. You will have the opportunity to organise a tourism event and Travel and Tourism can be combined well with Languages, Business Studies and Geography.
Previous study: No specific subject combination at GCSE is required but an interest in the field is essential.
Future opportunities: The Travel and Tourism industry is one of the biggest growth areas of employment world-wide. A qualification in this area can help you get into University or Professional Training. Anyone considering a career in areas such as Travel Agency work, Tour Operations, Event Promotion and Airport work to name but a few, should consider this course.
One Year Courses
A range of one year courses will be on offer dependent on demand and staff availability. English, Mathematics GCSE will be an integral part of the range. In addition we are currently offering Graphics, Photography and Business Studies at GCSE and OCR National ICT.UMS scores
A level grades are worked out on the basis of UMS marks. It is more important to look at your UMS scores than the grade in order to work out how close you are to grade boundaries and what re-sits need to be done to take you to the next grade.|
AS |
%age score |
200 mark AS |
300 |
A2 |
%age |
400 |
600 | |
|
A* |
100-90 |
360 |
540 | |||||
|
A |
100-80 |
160 |
240 |
A |
89-80 |
320 |
480 | |
|
B |
79 – 70 |
140 |
210 |
B |
79 – 70 |
280 |
420 | |
|
C |
69 – 60 |
120 |
180 |
C |
69 – 60 |
240 |
360 | |
|
D |
59 – 50 |
100 |
150 |
D |
59 – 50 |
200 |
300 | |
|
E |
49 – 40 |
80 |
120 |
E |
49 – 40 |
160 |
240 |
General RE
All students have one period of General RE each week. This is an opportunity to discuss and reflect personally on matters of faith, ethics and world religions. Students keep a learning journal during the year and there is a certificate for the course but there are no exams.
Enrichment
There are a wide variety of enrichment activities available:
• Critical thinking is available at AS and A2 and provides an opportunity to gain an extra A level as well as developing skills of reasoning, critically evaluating and presenting an argument which are valuable across the curriculum
• General Studies is available in Year 13 with an AS exam in January and A” in the summer. This qualification can provide useful extra UCAS points for some students as well as demonstrating an ability to understand and comment on matters of general knowledge and current affairs.
• The Extended Project Qualification is worth half an A level and is graded A* to E. It is designed to develop skills of independent thinking, research, reflection and presentation. Students come up with a topic of their own choosing which cannot overlap with any A level study and with the guidance of a designated supervisor they produce a 500 word essay or an artefact, a log recording their learning and reflections on it and give a presentation to an audience on their chosen topic. Student shave the opportunity to join Bolton University Library to help with their research.
• Sport – depending on availability of staff students are able to take part in some sport and have access to a local gym on Wednesday period 6
• Life skills – students have the opportunity of joining a carousel of courses aimed at helping to prepare for university life. In 2009-10these include personal budgeting and finance, cooking on a budget, research skills and relaxation
