How To Succeed At Brock

Transcription

1 2015/16 Sixth Form

2 2 Brockenhurst College Lyndhurst Road Brockenhurst Hampshire SO42 7ZE We have used our best efforts to ensure that all the information provided in this prospectus is accurate at the time of publication. Some changes to our course offering may need to take place from time to time and our website will be updated regularly to reflect any updates or amendments wherever possible. Brock is not just a place to study; it is a place to have new experiences, to make new friends, to develop new responsibilities and to take new steps in life.

3 Welcome from the Principal 3 Brockenhurst College has maintained an excellent academic reputation since its inception over 100 years ago; we remain dedicated to providing the highest quality education for all. I believe that the key to our success is our passion for learning and our commitment to each individual student. The success of our students is evidenced as they progress to Higher Education and a range of careers, locally, nationally and internationally. Our students consistently high pass rate and progression to top universities stands testimony to our academic excellence, and is endorsed by our excellent Ofsted record. Our dedicated academic staff offer keen expertise and in-depth understanding of their subject areas. They are supported by excellent facilities and trained support staff, with everyone working together to prepare students for their next step to university or the workplace. Whether you choose to study A levels or one of our Vocational courses, you will find Brock not just a place to study but a place to make new friends, to take on new responsibilities and to take new steps in life. In addition to the wide range of courses, Brock offers an extensive choice of opportunities designed to enhance our students lives. Our enrichment programme includes sports, community service, study trips, work experience and creative arts projects. I very much hope that you will find our range of courses of interest and that you will be inspired to attend one of our regular Open Evenings to learn more about what Brock has to offer. Come and discover a College where excellence is delivered within a friendly, inclusive and stimulating environment and where everyone is encouraged and enabled to fulfil their potential and realise their ambitions. Di Roberts CBE, Principal For more information visit

4 Contents 4 Open Evenings p64 For more information visit

5 5 Introduction 06 Subject Index 08 Courses/Qualifications Explained 10 Quality, Results & Choice 12 Campus & Facilities 14 Teaching & Support 16 Next Steps, University and Progression 18 Travel to Brock 19 Getting a Global Perspective 20 Enrichment & Sports 22 Additional Support A Level Programme 24 Introduction to A level courses 26 Business 27 Computing & Information Technology 28 Electronics & DT Resistant Materials 29 English 30 Film/Media Studies & Photography 31 Health & Social Care 32 Humanities 33 Mathematics 34 Modern Languages 35 Performing Arts & Music Vocational Courses 40 Introduction to Vocational courses 42 Beauty Therapy 43 Business 44 Computing & ICT 45 Construction 46 Early Years/Health & Social Care 47 Engineering & Marine Technologies 48 Hospitality, Catering, Travel & Tourism 49 Media & Photography 50 Performing Arts & Music 51 Sports 52 Uniformed Public Services 53 Visual Arts 54 Foundation Learning Other Courses 56 Apprenticeships 60 Higher Education Courses Further Information 62 Application, Interview and Enrolment 64 Open Evenings 67 How to Find Us 36 Physical Education 37 Science 38 Social & Human Sciences 39 Visual Arts For more information visit

6 Subject Index 6 Brock offers a wide range of subjects for you to choose from across both A level and Vocational Courses; use the list below as a quick reference to the subjects you are interested in. A (AS) Level 32 Archaeology 37 Biology 26 Business 37 Chemistry 34 Chinese 32 Classical Civilization 29 Communication and Culture 27 Computer Science 29 Creative Writing 35 Dance 28 DT Resistant Materials 35 Drama 26 Economics 28 Electronics 29 English Language 29 English Language and Literature 29 English Literature 37 Environmental Studies 30 Film Studies 39 Fine Art 34 French 38 Geography 37 Geology 34 German 38 Government and Politics 39 Graphics 31 Health and Social Care 32 History 27 Information and Communication Technology 33 Mathematics and Further Mathematics 33 Mathematics - Mechanics 33 Mathematics - Statistics 33 Mathematics - Uses 30 Media Studies 35 Music 35 Music Technology 35 Performance Studies 32 Philosophy 30 Photography 37 Physics 36 Physical Education 38 Psychology 32 Religious Studies 38 Sociology 34 Spanish 39 Textiles For more information visit

7 7 Vocational 49 Art and Design 42 Beauty Therapy 45 Bricklaying 43 Business 45 Carpentry and Joinery 46 Children s Play, Learning and Development 45 Electrical Installations 47 Engineering 46 Health and Social Care 48 Hospitality 44 Information and Communication Technology 47 Marine Construction 47 Marine Engineering 49 Media 50 Music 50 Performing Arts 49 Photography 45 Plumbing 48 Professional Cookery/Chefs Diploma 51 Sports, Exercise & Fitness 48 Travel and Tourism 52 Uniformed Public Services

8 8 Courses/Qualifications Explained You can study subjects at a range of different levels, depending on the grades you achieve at GCSE, your preferred method of study and your plans for higher education, further training or employment after Brock. You will be offered expert guidance at your interview, where we ll talk through all the options with you to help you select the courses best suited to your future plans and ultimate career goals. A Level Courses A level courses are a natural choice for you if you have enjoyed and been successful on your GCSE courses. A levels offer you the chance to focus your attention on a smaller number of subjects, building your knowledge and understanding in the areas in which you have proven strengths and strong interest. You will choose three or four subjects from a wide range of available courses and any combination is usually possible - one advantage of joining a larger college. From 2015, A levels are changing. For students starting their course in September 2015 there will be new style A levels in the following thirteen subjects: Art, Biology, Business, Chemistry, Computing, Economics, English Language, English Language and Literature, English Literature, History, Physics, Psychology and Sociology. This means that the method of assessment will be linear, with exams at the end of the two-year course. The remaining A levels will keep their modular assessment with AS exams at the end of the first year and A2 exams at the end of the second year. Our Enrichment programme also gives you the chance to learn new skills, develop existing talents, and to complement your academic studies; many of the activities offer an opportunity to gain extra qualifications and to enhance your university or job applications. Vocational Courses Vocational courses are directly related to an area of employment or a future occupation that you might be interested in pursuing. As well as learning the theory related to the subject area, you will have the opportunity to apply that theory in a more practical context and will undertake work experience or placements as part of your course. Assessment is largely by coursework at the end of each module, a mode of assessment which many learners find preferable to the terminal examination system for academic A levels. Vocational courses are available at various levels depending upon your GCSE results and plans for future study or employment. For more information visit

9 9 Level 3 Diplomas are a great option for you if you have done well at GCSE but now wish to move on to a course related to your career plans. They offer you the chance to spend most of your time in College on a course directly related to working in the industry of your choice. Vocational courses at Level 3 are recognised qualifications for university entry and will enable you to develop the skills and gain experience that will impress potential employers in your chosen field. You can either choose a Level 3 Extended Diploma, which is a full-time, 2 year course equivalent to 3 A levels or, if you are also interested in pursuing an A level course in another subject alongside your vocational programme, you can choose a Level 3 Diploma, which is equivalent to 2 A levels. Level 2 Diplomas allow you to focus on the career area of your choice and develop the knowledge and skills that employers will be looking for. You will have the chance to choose a course that fits in with the strengths you have developed at school and with your future plans, and you can also retake GCSEs at the same time if you need to. Courses usually last for one year, and you will undertake work experience to equip you with the skills needed to progress onto a Level 3 course, or enter directly into an Apprenticeship or employment. Our admissions staff are here to discuss study options with you (or your parents or guardians) at any time please call on Apprenticeships Apprenticeships are high quality work-based training programmes, ideal for young people who want to develop their career prospects. Apprenticeships allow you to focus on a career area of your choice, train on the job and be paid as an employee whilst also studying for a nationally recognised vocational qualification - so you can earn while you learn. See page 57 for more details. Foundation Learning Foundation Learning courses are designed for year old students who may need to achieve qualifications or build confidence in order to progress onto Level 2 courses, training or employment. See page 54 for more details. For more information visit

10 Quality, Results & Choice 10 The College celebrated its centenary in 2013; this rich history of quality education continues today as Brock students achieve excellent exam results leading to higher education progression and career success. For more information visit

11 11 Proven Success Brockenhurst is recognised as one of the most successful colleges in the UK. In addition to a consistently high Ofsted rating, the College holds the prestigious Beacon College status for excellence and innovation in education. Our most recent Ofsted was that of Outstanding ; the report highlighted the enthusiasm, passion and standards of professional practice shown by our teachers, and the support offered to our students. Students were noted as being motivated, self-confident and encouraged to have high aspirations. Our annual A level results are proof of our excellence, with a consistent 99% pass rate year on year. In 2014, more than half of students gained A*-B grades, with three quarters of all students achieving A*-C grades across all subjects. Vocational students also achieved excellent results. Detailed exam results for 2014 can be found on our website It was clear that the teachers were really enthusiastic about their subjects and clear about how they would teach, which really inspired me to come to Brock. Niall Cearns A level Maths, Chemistry, Biology, Physics Range of Courses Brock s range of courses has been designed to ensure that students are offered a diverse choice of subject areas across both A level and Vocational courses our subject areas are reviewed each year to ensure we offer the widest and most relevant subjects to all students whether you re planning to go to university or straight into the workplace. Our flexible curriculum allows you to select a combination of courses to suit your Higher Education and career plans this means that you can enjoy a mixture of subjects that make the most of your talents and enable you to fulfil your ambitions. Courses are grouped into broad subject areas which allow students to benefit from shared facilities, talks and lectures, work placement opportunities and other study activities. You ll work with teachers and other students who share your passion for these subjects and will be encouraged to explore your chosen subject and related areas of interest. More details about A level and Vocational study can be found on pages 8 and 9. I ve had lots of help with my university application my tutor went through everything on a one-to-one basis and I ve also been on the UCAS workshop at College. Kim Jones BTEC Health & Social Care For more information visit

12 12 Campus Environment & Facilities Brock s New Forest location is truly unique the 27-acre campus is set within the beautiful surrounding parkland and offers an inclusive and creative environment for study and other activities. Brock provides students with modern, relevant facilities within specialist teaching areas. The Learning Resources Centre (LRC) provides a spacious environment for research and study with helpful, trained staff. There are specialist books, magazines and DVDs covering all subject areas, together with copiers, printers, PCs, quiet areas and group study rooms. The Hard Brock Café offers a varied menu for meals and snacks throughout the day and a great social space to meet friends. There s also an Internet Café and plenty of outdoor areas to meet, study and relax. Our Sports Centre is available to all students and offers a gym and sports hall for indoor activities, outdoor tennis, basketball and netball courts, and floodlit astroturf pitches for football, hockey and rugby. A range of watersports is also offered at nearby Hengistbury Head. The Campus has its own theatre, together with dance studio and rehearsal rooms for music and performing arts. The Beacon Technology Centre is a 3.5 million state-ofthe-art Technology, Media and Photography hub, housing the latest IT facilities plus a TV and radio recording studio. Industry-standard kitchens have an adjoining working restaurant and bar area open to the public for hospitality and catering training. Ultima Beauty Academy (based in New Milton) offers specialist beauty and alternative therapy equipment and offers services to the public for hands-on training. More details about our campus and facilities can be found on Construction and Marine courses are based in nearby Marchwood (with a regular bus service from the main campus); a modern facility offering the latest industrystandard equipment and technology. I spend so much time in the LRC you can focus without being distracted and there s a great selection of books to borrow. Jessica Simpkin A level History, Classical Civilization, English Literature, Geography For more information visit

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14 Teaching & Support 14 My Personal Tutor was very helpful with my university application and suggested lots of research material which helped support my personal statement. Katie Cregg A level English Literature, History, Psychology, Maths For more information visit

15 15 Our Teaching Staff Whether you select to study a range of A level courses or decide on a specific Vocational course, you will be taught by specialist, post-16 qualified staff with relevant professional experience that enhances their teaching skills. Most importantly, they are passionate about their areas of expertise and are dedicated to ensuring that each and every student is encouraged to explore the subject area, to develop their skills and knowledge, and to maximise their potential. They aim not just to teach but to bring out a real understanding of specific areas and a motivation to succeed. Personal Tutors Personal Tutors are assigned to each student at Brock; they will get to know you and can offer additional advice and support to your studies. Whether you have a concern about your subject choice, want some advice about your university application, are finding your schedule of work tricky to get used to, or are considering a work placement, they will talk through various options with you and help you to decide the best way forward. Student Services Our Student Services team is available to all students, from before you enroll on your studies here, right the way through your time at Brock. The team is experienced, helpful and friendly and your questions or concerns will always be treated with respect and confidentiality. They will be happy to help with a range of topics including finance, health and wellbeing, learning difficulties, personal issues and anything else relating to your life or study at Brock. Gifted and Talented Programme The College runs this programme for students who join us with seven or more A/A* GCSE grades and who will be studying more academically challenging courses at Brock. You will be placed into a specialist tutor group with similar students and will be supported to achieve your highest potential. You ll be encouraged to develop additional skills alongside your course studies to prepare you for application to the top universities. Early career discussions and advice on the university application process (including visits to Oxford and Cambridge) are offered, together with individual and group support, workshops and subject-specific mock interviews. The programme also encourages and supports self-initiated research projects and you will receive guidance on preparing your personal statement for university application. Parental Support The College has an excellent Parent Portal via its website which provides details about timetabling, exam procedures and much more, allowing parents to easily keep up to date with all aspects of their child s study programme. Attendance and progress reports are made available and tutors may be contacted at any time. Parents Evenings are held on a regular basis to review students progress and to discuss targets, exam result expectations and progression plans. Online Support Systems The College makes good use of technology to monitor and support our students. Our EMILY system provides an easy way to communicate about the progress of students, any problems they may be experiencing or additional needs they might have. ebrock is a key communication, teaching and learning tool, allowing students to create, submit and gain feedback on assignments online and ensuring easy access to course information. Parents may also use ebrock to keep in touch with what is happening at College. Personal and Financial Support At Brock we believe that you should be able to progress and succeed, whatever life may throw at you. Our intensive support team includes qualified counsellors and nurses who offer a friendly and open support service. Our Finance and Welfare Advisor is also on hand to make sure you get the financial support you need and are entitled to. Many students at Brock get financial help with the costs of travelling to College, buying study materials and meals. Our Finance and Welfare office provides confidential and friendly advice to make sure you get all the help you need. For more information visit

16 16 Next Steps, University & Progression Brockenhurst College is the ideal stepping stone between school and university or employment. You ll be encouraged to manage your own time and to develop an independent study routine in addition to your timetabled lessons. Brock offers an environment where you ll mix with people from all walks of life gaining social and practical skills which will help prepare you for studying at higher level and for gaining employment. Brock students work hard and play hard and we aim to develop individuals who will become responsible, educated and caring adults who want to make a real contribution to society. Each year our students participate in a variety of events: sports and outdoor challenges; community projects, charity work and fund-raisers; artistic exhibitions and performances; scientific projects; work placements, ambassadorial roles and cultural visits in the UK and abroad. These events help to build confidence and independence and give students a real flavour of the future opportunities awaiting them as adults. Next Steps Career progression is considered from the time you start at Brock - whether you plan to study at university or want to start your career immediately after leaving College. We also offer an excellent Careers Advice Service which provides one-to-one sessions where you can talk through your future career aspirations and make plans for your post-college options. A job matching service, utilising our contacts with businesses in the region, helps to find relevant Apprenticeships in a range of industries. A number of Next Steps events are held each year to help you learn more about your future options and to gain useful advice - last year these included: a gap year and volunteering fair attended by major national and international companies offering opportunities for work experience; a seminar from a Dragons Den entrepreneur; Barclays Money Week covering a range of financial topics; and university presentations on admissions preparation, personal statements and the use of social media. University Options Brock encourages students to attend Higher Education events which are held at the College and around the UK. We also arrange for around 60 universities to come to the College each year so that you can research the huge number of choices available to you. Staff will discuss these choices on an individual basis and will help you with the UCAS application process. We do a lot of independent study which is very different to school you are treated as a young adult and it s given me the opportunity to learn and do things in my own way rather than just being told what to do. Kim Jones BTEC Heath & Social Care Work Experience Work Experience plays a key role in study at Brock; whether you are studying a Vocational or A level course, we know what an important part work experience can play in securing a place at the university of your choice, or in a successful job application. Our trained staff are available to assist with CVs, placements and other work experience related matters. We have developed excellent relationships with companies across a wide range of areas, including business, engineering, sports, travel, childcare, health and social care, hospitality and many others, offering crucial experience to our students. A significant number of students have been offered employment following their successful work placement. Brock was recently awarded the gold standard by Fair Train for our work experience programme. For more information visit

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18 Travel to Brock 18 Getting to and from Brock is easy Students travel to Brock from across the region, many coming from Salisbury, Bournemouth and the Isle of Wight, as well as from local towns and villages around the New Forest. We offer discounted passes on South West train services (the station is just a five minute walk) and have excellent, subsidised bus services directly to and from the campus. As part of our commitment to sustainability, we encourage use of public transport or walking or cycling but second year students may opt to drive and can apply for on-site parking permits. More details can be found on our website on and a specific Travel Guide is produced each year giving details of routes and costs, together with information about available funding. The location is lovely and getting here is really easy. Chris Bradley BTEC Sports & Exercise Science Our Travel team can offer specific help and advice through the summer months in advance of the start of term, and our dedicated Travel Co-ordinator is on hand to help students with any travel problems on a daily basis throughout each term. For more information visit

19 Getting a Global Perspective 19 The opportunity to meet and study with students from across the world will give you useful insight into international culture. Brock offers an opportunity to mix with many international students who choose to study here from around the world; Brazil, China, Thailand, North America, Europe and elsewhere. This diverse mix of culture really adds to the College experience and many students make new friends who they continue to keep in contact with and visit after they leave Brock. We also arrange many study trips abroad to visit institutions or events of interest to specific courses - these offer a great opportunity to experience a greater knowledge and understanding of course subjects as well as broadening students cultural awareness. Student exchange programmes are also well-established here. The College has excellent relationships with universities and businesses around the world and these links also offer opportunities for international knowledge and experience. There s such a diversity of people at Brock it s really interesting meeting different cultures from around the world. Harry Button A level Environmental Studies, Geography, Archaeology For more information visit

20 Enrichment & Sports 20 Brock aims to ensure that all students really make the most of their time here; our extra-curricular activities will encourage you to develop your academic, practical and personal skills and to try new experiences. Enrichment Programme Our unique Enrichment programme gives all students a great opportunity to learn new skills, develop existing talents, and to experience something different alongside their academic studies. They re designed to add another dimension to life at Brock and you ll make new friends and broaden your outlook on life. All students are encouraged to take at least one Enrichment option many of the activities offer an opportunity to gain extra qualifications and to enhance your university or job applications. You ll be given more information about the options when you join Brock we offer activities as diverse as lifeguarding to life-drawing, samba lessons to basic Chinese, photography to yoga, playing in a band to writing the College newspaper. You might also want to volunteer for community projects or take your Duke of Edinburgh award there really is something to interest everyone. More details about our Enrichment opportunities can be found on The Enrichment Programme is great because you get to do something different and it can take the stress off course work and exams. Ellie Martin BTEC Performing Arts & A level Dance Sports Academy Brock has an outstanding reputation for sporting excellence and offers six Academy sports (Basketball, Football, Rugby, Golf, Netball and Hockey) aimed at talented athletes who want to continue to pursue sporting achievements alongside their academic study. Academy students receive high-level coaching, play regular match fixtures, and gain valuable competition experience at county, regional and national level. You ll have access to the College s excellent facilities and receive training from a dedicated team of experienced sports professionals; you ll also benefit from fitness training and nutritional advice. More information about the Sports Academy can be found on our website The Duke of Edinburgh Award has helped with my communication skills and teamwork. Amy Walsh A level Geography, Environmental Studies, Archaeology For more information visit:

21 21 Brock has its own Students Union which represents students at governing level. As well as dealing with important issues and helping to ensure you have the best experience at College, the SU also arranges social functions and activities throughout the year that all students can take part in. For more information visit:

22 Additional Support at Brock 22 Inspiration Room The College has a specially-designed Inspiration Room, which is staffed by members of the learning assistant team. This pleasant facility is available for students on the autistic spectrum and for other vulnerable students who might benefit from a quiet space to work and study. For more information about learning support, please contact the Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator on Skills Development The Skills Development team offers advice and support for students who might require additional help with their studies. Driven by student need, specific support might include help with study skills such as time management, organisation skills, exam revision technique, coursework support and literacy. The specialist tutors can also offer assistance across the full range of curriculum areas. The one-to-one support is friendly and confidential. In some cases, assistive technology can be provided to support specific needs; the team will also assess for special exam arrangements. Students with disabilities Brock welcomes students with disabilities. Your needs will be assessed prior to joining us and any necessary adjustments will be put in place for your timetable of study. If you have physical, sensory or other support needs, please contact our Special Needs Co-ordinator who will be happy to discuss your requirements with you. Learning Assistants The Learning Assistant team at Brock are trained professionals. There is learning assistant support on courses at Foundation Level and Level 2. In a small number of cases, individuals can be allocated one-to-one learning support if there is a specific need (for example, physical mobility, visual impairment). For more information visit:

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24 24 Detailed Course Profiles for all A level courses can be found on our website: For detailed information about these courses visit

25 A Level Courses The following pages give details of all the A level courses on offer at Brock. We have grouped these together so that you can easily find and research the main subjects you are interested in. 25 Our flexible timetable allows you to select a range of courses to suit your interests, higher education and career plans.