HitcHin ScHoolS SixtH Form consortium

Transcription

1 HitcHin ScHoolS SixtH Form consortium BUSINESS & ICT Prospectus

2 Contents Page Foreword 3 Page Page Introduction introductions & consortium Aims & objectives 4 Entry to the Sixth Form 5 Advice and Guidance 5 life in the Sixth Form 5 How the consortium operates 6 the Sixth Form curriculum 6 art, Design & Technology Courses Art & design (Fine Art) 7 Art & design (Photography) 8 design & technology (Graphic Product design) 9 design & technology (3d Product design) 10 design & technology (Food technology) 11 design & technology (textiles) 12 Business & ICT Courses Business 13 Economics & Business 14 Economics 15 Business BtEc level 3 16 computing Science 17 ict (Applied) 18 it BtEc level 3 19 languages, literature & culture courses French, German & Spanish 20 latin 21 classical civilisation 21 English language & literature 22 English literature 23 Humanities & Social Science courses Geography 24 travel & tourism BtEc level 3 25 Philosophy & Ethics 26 History 27 Government & Politics 28 Health & Social care 29 Psychology 30 Sociology 31 Science & mathematics Courses Biology 32 chemistry 33 Physics 34 Applied Science BtEc level 3 35 mathematics 36 media, Performing arts & Physical education Courses drama & theatre Studies 37 Performing Arts (Acting) BtEc level 3 38 music 39 music technology BtEc level 3 40 media Studies 41 Physical Education 42 Sports & Exercise BtEc level 3 43 enrichment Studies Courses community Sports leadership 44 Higher Sports leadership 44 Ancient Greek 45 Extended Project Qualification 45 Enrichment Activities destinations 48 delivery of courses contact details and Key dates 51 2 HitcHin ScHoolS SixtH Form consortium

3 Foreword We are pleased that you are seriously considering remaining in full-time education and doing so in the Hitchin Schools Sixth Form Consortium. It is a Consortium of Hitchin Boys School, Hitchin Girls School and The Priory School. Being part of a school Sixth Form is more than studying for qualifications. There are other benefits to be had from working with people you know, in a familiar environment. There is also a very significant contribution you can make as a sixth form student to your school and to the Consortium in a whole variety of ways which, in turn, will be of further benefit to you when you move on to higher education or employment. The Consortium has existed for many years but we constantly review what we offer and seek ways of improving still further the opportunities for post-16 students across the Consortium. A significant change from September 2015 will be the first teaching of the initial tranche of reformed A Level and AS qualifications. At the time of going to press, the exam board specifications for these new courses were awaiting accreditation by Ofqual. Once further information is made available to schools then we will provide students with full details for the courses on offer. Each of the schools in the Consortium has excellent arrangements in place to guide you in making your choices. We will provide advice, designed to offer you the most appropriate programme. After reading this prospectus carefully do talk to your teachers, Heads of Year, Heads of Sixth Form, Careers Advisers and students already following the courses in which you are interested. You will then be able to make your choices from an informed position. In the meantime we wish you every success in your examinations. The Head Teachers of Hitchin Boys School, The Priory School and Hitchin Girls School Hitchin Schools Sixth Form Consortium 3

4 introduction Welcome to the Hitchin Schools Sixth Form consortium Prospectus for the period September 2015 to July We hope that you find the information contained in it useful. Further information is available from the Head of Sixth Form at each of the schools and at the Sixth Form open Evenings. the three Hitchin secondary schools, Hitchin Boys, Hitchin Girls and the Priory are working together as a Sixth Form consortium to enable more than 650 students to have access to a wide range of AS, A2 & BtEc courses. oscar The Priory School Coming into Sixth Form, I knew what I wanted to do, taking Art, English Literature, History, and Business with Economics. My subject choices were incredibly mixed, having both creative and academic subjects but this didn t matter, or affect my workload. In fact, the variation in styles of learning kept things fresh between subjects so I wasn t always writing! Sixth Form is definitely a huge step up, but the teachers recognise this and give you incredible amounts of attention and support, whether they re running revision classes after school, or sitting down one-on-one to help with UCAS application form and personal statements. ConSorTIum aims and objectives To offer learning environments where you feel safe, valued and informed. To meet the needs of all students through a high quality provision of appropriate learning and enrichment opportunities. To provide clear progression opportunities along relevant and flexible pathways. To ensure you receive comprehensive and impartial advice and guidance in order to achieve your full potential. To give you the opportunity to develop the knowledge, skills and confidence to set yourself demanding targets and the determination to achieve them. To provide you with a platform from which you can progress to employment or to higher or further education. To provide best value through effective deployment of resources and specialist staff. 4 HitcHin ScHoolS SixtH Form consortium - GENERAL

5 Introduction RAL entry To THe SIxTH Form You are encouraged to move on to the Sixth Form provided that you are capable of benefiting from the courses which are available and that you have a positive approach to your work. The level of course you could progress onto will depend on the results you achieve at Key Stage 4. Minimum entry requirements to our Consortium are 5 A*-C at GCSE or equivalent, including Maths and English, for an advanced level or Level 3 course. Some subjects will have additional specific requirements and where these apply, they are detailed on the individual subject page. After the Open Evening you will be asked to complete an application form indicating the courses which you would like to take in the Sixth Form. These choices will be discussed with you in individual interviews and induction sessions will be held in each school. Taster lessons in each subject are run across the Consortium during a designated two day period in the second half of the summer term. In the Sixth Form you will be assigned to a tutor and a tutor group for the whole of your Sixth Form course. The tutor, supported by your Head of Sixth, is responsible for your academic guidance and pastoral care. Academic guidance will include aspects such as monitoring progress, offering support and discussing whether progression from Year 12 to Year 13 stages of a course is always the right move. Careers education and guidance is an integral part of the Sixth Form programme with the aim of helping you to make informed, appropriate choices about your future. You will receive advice and assistance from nominated personnel at each school when making applications to university or college, and for apprenticeships and work experience. There is an integrated reference process for UCAS applications between the three schools. Where talks and presentations are made from industry representatives, we aim to make these accessible to students across the Consortium wherever possible. life In THe SIxTH Form You will have a small number of private study and assisted learning periods during each week and this time should be seen as a chance to make progress with work or other relevant activities. There is a wide range of extra-curricular and enrichment activities in which you may continue to develop your own skills and abilities and increase your range of interests. There are also opportunities for you to help staff with the running of activities for other students in your school. For example, you are encouraged to help support teachers in lessons with junior students and to participate in sport, music and drama. It is to be hoped that you will take up some of the opportunities available. The important factor overall is to maintain a good balance between the demands of academic work and all the other demands on your time. advice and GuIDanCe All three schools have been awarded the Youth Connexions Quality Award in Careers Education and Guidance and have completed or are completing the final stages of the Investors in Careers Awards. Impartial advice and guidance regarding options after Key Stage 4 is available for you from a variety of sources including subject teachers, Year Heads, Careers Co-ordinators, Heads of Sixth Form and Head Teachers. Career advisers are available in school on a regular basis and will be in attendance at the Sixth Form Open Evenings. The Sixth Form provides a series of opportunities for you to develop not only your academic and vocational attainments but also your self confidence and skills such as communication, team working and management of your own learning. You will be encouraged to take more responsibility for your work, particularly with regard to its planning and completion over longer periods of time, the preparation required for lessons and the amount of reading needed to gain the necessary depth and breadth of knowledge in each subject. With more lessons in each subject than at Key Stage 4, there is more chance to develop a closer contact with teachers and receive more individual attention. HitcHin ScHoolS SixtH Form consortium 5

6 Introduction AL How The Consortium Operates Each school offers a range of Sixth Form courses with the opportunity to take courses at other schools within the Consortium. Generally, it will be possible to accommodate you on the courses of your choice, however, where demand dictates, the following criteria will apply: 1. Some courses are joint taught across two or more schools. Students from all three schools have equal right of access to these courses. 2. Some courses are only delivered at one or two of the three schools. Places on these courses will be given to students from the other schools once the demand for places in the host school has been assessed. 3. In some cases it is difficult to timetable all the subjects which you would like to take without there being a timetable clash. Most often in this situation it will be possible for you to take a subject at one of the other schools to resolve the clash. You must negotiate your courses with your own Head of Sixth Form. Students from outside the area wishing to be taught within the Consortium need first to apply to the Sixth Form in one of the schools. Transport is provided at certain times during the school day to move you between sites, where required, for consortium lessons. You are expected to make your own way to and from your teaching site at the beginning and end of the day. The Sixth Form Curriculum Students joining the Sixth Form are encouraged to follow a broad, challenging curriculum. There are over forty different courses available within the Consortium. Reformed A-Level and AS Level Courses In February 2013, The Secretary of State for Education initiated the reform of A-Levels with a view to making the qualifications more ambitious; better preparing young people for employment and further study and giving everyone greater confidence in the integrity and reliability of the qualifications system. The Government has stated that the purpose of taking A-Levels is primarily for entry to university and changes are needed so students are better prepared to start their university course. All new A-Levels will be linear, with assessment by examination taking place at the end of two years of study. There will be minimal coursework content and the AS Level qualifications won t count towards the final grade of an A-Level. The new AS Levels will be stand-alone qualifications in their own right. They will remain broadly at their current standard. There will be one examination series each year, with the first assessment planned for June From September 2015, the reformed AS and A-Level qualifications will apply to the following subjects: Art & Design, Business, Computer Science, Economics, English Literature, English Language & Literature, History, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Psychology and Sociology. All other A-Level subjects will remain unchanged until their reformed qualifications are introduced in subsequent years. Existing A-Level Courses Existing Advanced Level (A-Level) courses are modular, usually consisting of four units; two at Advanced Subsidiary (AS) Level, studied in Year 12 and two at A2-Level, studied in Year 13. The AS-units form the first half of the full A-Level as well as being a qualification in their own right. Examination of AS and A2 units takes place in May/June of each year. All AS and A2 courses are graded on a six point scale with pass grades from A* to E. BTEC Courses The BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma is a six unit course equivalent to one A-Level. The BTEC Level 3 Diploma is a twelve unit course equivalent to two A-Levels. All BTEC courses are graded at Pass, Merit, Distinction or Distinction*. They are vocational courses based on practical experience and are assessed through assignments, both internally and externally marked. 6 Hitchin Schools Sixth Form Consortium

7 Art & design (FinE Art) AS and A level These practical courses will enable you to develop the creative and intellectual skills for imaginative growth and to access the vast array of art and design further study and careers. It is an excellent complement to many other areas of study, as it teaches you to be analytical, to solve problems creatively and to gain a cultural awareness. You will explore relevant images, artefacts and resources relating to Fine Art and may use traditional methods and/or digital techniques to produce Fine Art work. You will be expected to demonstrate specialisation in particular materials, media or processes. Drawing skills should be understood and developed as ways of recording and communicating intentions, ideas and emotions. There is an important focus is on your recording through using drawing or other appropriate visual forms. as level You will have a choice of endorsed titles to choose from. Each is made up of one externally set task which will be internally marked and externally moderated. There will be a selection of themes and within each theme there will be a choice of textual and visual starting points, briefs and stimuli. You will be able to work entirely in non-digital media, entirely in digital media, or a combination of both. a level There is a choice of endorsed titles to choose from, each made up of two components. Both components are internally marked and externally moderated. Component 01: Personal investigation Element 1: Practical portfolio Within the portfolio, you are expected to develop a personal response based on a set theme leading to a finished realisation or outcome. It should consist of a sustained project, theme or course of study. It may be presented in appropriate formats for the specialism chosen e.g. sketchbooks, mounted sheets, maquettes, prototypes, digital presentations, animation, scale models or illustrated written work. Element 2: Related study This is a written component, through which you are required to establish the related context of your practical portfolio. This may be established by exploring the genre, subject matter, movement or historical framework of the starting point, course of study or selected theme. The aim of the related study is to enable you to develop and communicate your knowledge and understanding of art historical movements, genres, practitioners and artworks. It also builds your understanding of the relationship between society and art: art historical terms, concepts and issues; methods of researching, investigating and analysing; and how works are interpreted and evaluated. Component 02: externally set task In this component, an early release paper will be issued and with a choice of themes, each with written and/or visual starting points, briefs or stimuli. You will choose one option for which you will generate an appropriate personal response, during a set amount of supervised time, for assessment. You will be given a preparatory period for research, planning and development of ideas. art, Design & Technology The creative industries are growth industries and Britain leads the way. The qualification can lead to Foundation Studies at Higher Education in any art and/ or design course and degree courses specialising in distinct areas of Art and/or Design ocr H201 (HGS & TPS) edexel 8Fa0 (HBS) These specifications have not yet been accredited by Ofqual so may be subject to change before the start of teaching in September new Qualification HitcHin ScHoolS SixtH Form consortium 7

8 new Qualification art, Design & Technology Art & design (PHotoGrAPHY) AS and A level Felix Hitchin Boys School In year 12 I decided to study Photography, Geography, Product Design and Psychology. The range of subjects offered has enabled me to pursue my many interests while teaching me skills that can be applied to different careers. Photography is my favourite subject as I get the opportunity to explore how I see the world with creative freedom while being guided in learning new techniques. Alongside my studies I have managed the school production set and attended lunchtime film club. I am a much more confident student and I am now looking forward to applying to university to study model making and stage construction so I can eventually work on film and TV sets. You will be able to explore, research and acquire techniques and develop your skills, knowledge and understanding in a range of photographic media. You will be expected to demonstrate specialisation in particular media or processes to allow an appropriate depth of study. This can be achieved by working toward the extension and development of particular themes, ideas or issues. You should explore relevant images, artefacts and resources relating to traditional and/or digital photography. You may use traditional methods such as photographic film and/or digital techniques to produce images. An important focus is on your recording through using lens-based or other appropriate media. Drawing skills should be understood and developed as appropriate to the ways of recording and communicating intentions, ideas and emotions in the context of Photography. ocr H203 HGS and TPS edexel 8Py0 HBS These specifications have not yet been accredited by Ofqual so may be subject to change before the start of teaching in September HitcHin ScHoolS SixtH Form consortium

9 Design and Technology (Graphic Product Design) A Level Art, Design & Technology Good design is vital to our world and economy, and as such you will be challenged to think creatively whilst producing graphic products. These could be anything ranging from packaging designs and promotional merchandise, through to architectural scale models of buildings. Graphic product design encompasses a wide range of design disciplines but is firmly rooted in the skills required to design and make high quality products. Products that are fit for purpose, satisfy wants and needs, and enhance our daily lives. This new qualification structure will allow you to develop a range of ICT skills using industry standard software ( Photoshop, Illustrator and AutoDesk inventor) and practical skills on a range of outcomes at AS which demonstrate your creativity and growing ability, and apply these to a design and make project at A2. At AS you will present a compilation portfolio which demonstrates your ability to investigate a product, respond creatively to a brief and to manufacture a high quality outcome. This will contribute towards 60% of the AS grade. The remaining assessment is based on theoretical knowledge of materials and processes which you will have acquired throughout the year. At A2, you will need to adopt the approach of a professional designer to see a product through to realisation. You will also conduct studies into ART & TECH commercial design, and designing for the future; a sustainable approach towards modern product design. The portfolio and practical is worth 60% of the A2 grade, with the exam paper completing the final 40%. A qualification in Graphic Product Design could lead to a range of further education or career opportunities in any number of design related fields, including, but not limited to; Architecture, Graphic Designer, Product/Industrial designer, Brand consultant and Interior designer. Edexcel 8GR01 and 9GR01 9 Hitchin Schools Sixth Form Consortium Hitchin Schools Sixth Form Consortium 9

10 art, Design & Technology design And technology (3d Product design) A level Stephanie The Priory School I always wanted to go to university but never really knew what I wanted to do or where my subjects would lead me. After GCSE, I wanted to continue subjects that I would be motivated to try hard in, so chose Product Design, Media, Business & Economics and Psychology. I have now decided to carry on with Product Design at university. The school were so helpful when it came to creating my portfolio and finding universities that had the course I was looking for. I definitely found the step up from GCSE to Year 12 challenging however the support that I received from my peers and teachers was amazing and encouraged me to continue working hard throughout year 12 and into year 13. This course has been designed to encourage you to take a broad view of design and technology, to develop your capacity to design and make products and to appreciate the complex relations between design, materials, manufacture and marketing. Students with an interest in Product Design will possess an enquiring mind, learn to think creatively, and be prepared to challenge expectations, to intervene and improve the quality of life by solving problems. Working as individuals and collectively, you will produce three dimensional products, models or working prototypes. To achieve this, you will combine practical and intellectual skills with an understanding of creativity, aesthetics, cultural, social, economic and environmental issues. Design studies will focus on the work of past designers, design movements of the 20th Century and contemporary design. At AS level you will study Materials & Components. A record of work undertaken during the year is presented to the exam board as a Design Portfolio contributing towards 50% of the AS grade. The remaining assessment is based on a written paper reflecting a knowledge of materials and components which you will have acquired throughout the year. At A2, you will study Design and Manufacture. A single substantial product is to be produced, reflecting a greater understanding of the complex relation between design need, commercial, marketing and material processes. A written examination will reflect a developing knowledge of design in society and manufacturing processes. A qualification in product design will demonstrate your ability to manage extended tasks, resolve conflicting demands and to organise the logistical demands of bringing resources, labour and costs in on time. These skills could lead to a range of further education or career opportunities in many disciplines, but clearly builds a perfect foundation for any design related field, such as Interior design, Set design, Product design, Architecture, Motor sport, Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, and many more. aqa 1551 and HitcHin ScHoolS SixtH Form consortium

11 art, Design & Technology design And technology (Food technology) A level This subject offers the chance to study an enjoyable and academic subject that develops your ability to come to understand the relationships between design, materials, manufacturing and marketing. The course covers nutrients, energy and diet for health promotion; issues related to mass media, the environment and food safety; and new product development for consumers in todays world. You will learn through practical product analysis and evaluation of food as a central theme. Application of food science and nutrition is essential alongside an understanding of society and health promotion relevant to the food industry. Assessment is by a combination of written examination and coursework. Your practical work will be presented as a coursework portfolio to show your best levels in design, idea generation, planning/making and evaluation. You will find a wealth of degree courses such as Nutrition and Dietetics, Medicine, Health Promotion, Consumer and Marketing, Teaching, Food and Manufacturing, Food Science, Food Technology, Business and Food Management, Applied Science, Environment Science and Food Media. aqa 1541 and 2541 amandeep Hitchin Girls School After my GCSE results I decided to take Biology, Psychology and Food Technology. I chose these subjects because I found that I enjoyed them the most and psychology interested me because I had never studied it before. Food Technology has always been one of my best subjects. I enjoy learning about nutrients and have found that my biology has really helped my understanding of some of the A2 course specification. After this year I hope to go on University to study Food Science and Nutrition. HitcHin ScHoolS SixtH Form consortium 11

12 Art, Design & Technology Design and Technology (Textiles) A Level A qualification in textiles could lead to a range of further education or career opportunities in any design related field including Product Design; Fashion Design and Textile manufacture. The course is designed to encourage you to take a broad view of design and technology and to develop your capacity to design and make products. At AS, in the first unit, Materials, Components and Application, you will have the opportunity to study and work with a variety of textile materials to enable you to understand the working characteristics, physical properties, cost and availability which influence the choice of materials in design situations. You will gain knowledge of the manufacturing systems and practices used in the textile industry and an understanding of how materials and components are worked as toiles, prototypes or models as part of a design realisation. This unit is assessed by written examination. The second unit, Learning Through Designing and Making, is a design and make coursework unit and will be assessed under the following criteria: Investigation and Clarification of the Problem, Development of the Design Proposal, Making/modelling, Evaluation & Testing and Communication & Presentation. Coursework may take a number of forms: a single design and make project, two smaller projects, and/or a portfolio of work. The first A2 unit, Design and Manufacture enables you to further develop your knowledge and understanding of materials and components, design and market influences and processes and manufacture. This unit is assessed by written examination. The A2 coursework unit allows you to illustrate your understanding of all three strands of the specification at a higher level than that produced for AS. You are expected to work more independently on your practical coursework, which is led by your own research and investigation. AQA 1561 and Hitchin Schools Sixth Form Consortium

13 BuSinESS AS and A level This WJEC course will introduce you to the dynamic business environment and the importance of entrepreneurial activity in creating business opportunities and sustaining business growth. You will be encouraged to develop an understanding of business in a range of contexts and develop a critical understanding of organisations and their ability to meet society s needs and wants. You will learn that business behaviour can be studied from a range of perspectives; to generate enterprising and creative approaches to business opportunities, problems and issues; and to become aware of the ethical dilemmas and responsibilities faced by organisations and individuals. During the course you will acquire a range of relevant business and generic skills, including decision making, problem solving, the challenging of assumptions and critical analysis and you will apply numerical skills in a range of business contexts. The AS qualification is comprised of 2 components: Business Opportunities assessed by 1 hr examination Business Functions assessed by 2 hr examination The A Level qualification is comprised of 3 components: Business Opportunities & Functions assessed by 2hr 15min examination Business Analysis and Strategy assessed by 2 hr examination Business in a Changing World assessed by 2hr 30min examination You will have the opportunity to develop a wide range of essential skills required for A level, higher education and employment. The focus of the course is to nurture an enthusiasm for studying business using contemporary contexts, allowing you to develop an holistic understanding of business issues from a local to global perspective while analysing the strategic, complex and inter-related nature of business issues both nationally and internationally. wjec eduqas (HGS) In this AQA course, we demonstrate the interrelated nature of Business using business models, theories and techniques to support analysis of contemporary business issues and situations. The content of the course is designed to engage you through topics and issues that are relevant in today s society, through key contemporary developments such as digital technology, business ethics and globalisation topics. The complete A-Level course covers the following topics: What is Business Managers, leadership and decision making Decision making to improve marketing performance Decision making to improve operational performance Decision making to improve financial performance Decision making to improve human resource performance Analysing the strategic position of a business Choosing strategic direction Strategic methods: how to pursue strategies Managing strategic change For the AS Level, there will be two 1.5 hour written exams assessing some of the topics above. For the A-Level, there will be three 2 hour exams, assessing all of the topics above. aqa (7131 & 7132) (HBS) Business & Computing These specifications have not yet been accredited by Ofqual so may be subject to change before the start of teaching in September Jeehvan Hitchin Girls School Taking Business was by far my best choice at A level. It is one of those subjects where you can use general knowledge, common sense and reasoning skills. I ve always had an enthusiasm for business and have been able to develop my problem solving skills throughout the course. Being in the Sixth Form has built my confidence and independence, giving me that step-up ready for University where I hope to study Business with Law. HitcHin ScHoolS SixtH Form consortium 13 new Qualification

14 new Qualification Business & Computing EconomicS And BuSinESS A level You will focus on building knowledge of core microeconomic, macroeconomic and business concepts and applying them to business contexts and evidence relating to the macroeconomic environment. You will apply your knowledge and understanding to familiar and unfamiliar contexts in the assessment and demonstrate an awareness of current economic events and policies. The A Level will be structured into four themes: Markets, consumers and firms where you will explore the way in which consumers make choices and entrepreneurs create desirable products. The wider economic environment which helps you to explore how firms can become more competitive. The global economy which has the international economic environment as its focus. Making markets work which considers degrees of competition within markets and encourages you to apply your understanding as to how governments may improve the functioning of markets and the economy. You will be assessed by 3 examinations at the end of the 2 years. Paper 1 - Markets and how they Work - draws on topics from themes 1 and 4. Paper 2 - Competing in the Global Economy - draws on topics from themes 2 and 3. Paper 3 - The Economic Environment and Business - is based on a pre-released case study and you will be required to apply your knowledge and understanding from all four themes. edexcel economics B (9eBo) This specification has not yet been accredited by Ofqual so may be subject to change before the start of teaching in September adrian - The Priory School My plans for after Sixth Form weren t very clear. I knew I wanted to go to university and study a business based degree but I didn t know specifically what I wanted to do. This is why I chose subjects which would offer me a wide variety of options, namely Economics & Business, Psychology, ICT BTEC and English Literature. Economics & Business really did open my eyes to the opportunities there are in the world of business. I was able to study a plethora of different units which were challenging yet enjoyable. Throughout the year, I had my highs and lows but with the excellent help from both my teachers I reached my target grade. I have now decided to study Business Management at University. BUSINESS & ICT 14 HitcHin ScHoolS SixtH Form consortium

15 EconomicS AS and A level Our approach to Economics is to apply economic theory to support analysis of current economic problems and issues, encouraging you to appreciate the interrelationships between microeconomics and macroeconomics. The content of the course covers: The operation of markets and market failure Economic methodology and the economic problem Price determination in a competitive market Production, costs and revenue Competitive and concentrated markets The market mechanism, market failure and government intervention in markets The national economy in a global context BUSINESS & ICT Timi Hitchin Boys School Starting at Hitchin Boy s in Year 12 meant that I had to get used to new people and a different environment late on in my education, however I had no trouble settling in. Making new friends was a concern of mine but I was in the same boat as many new Year 12 students and I made some great friends in no time at all. I have thoroughly enjoyed doing my A levels - Economics, Maths and Latin. I was a member of the Charity Committee, who, along with the Senior Prefect team, helped raise money for various charities such as Sport Relief and Shelterbox. I have gained a lot in my time here, not just in the classroom but in extra curricular activities, and hope to take what I ve learnt here as a good foundation for going forward. Business & Computing new Qualification The measurement of macroeconomic performance How the macroeconomy works : the circular flow of income, AD/AS analysis, and related concepts Economic performance Macroeconomic policy At AS assessment is through two 1.5 hour exams. At A-Level there are three 2 hour exams. You are required to achieve a minimum of a grade B in mathematics at GCSE in order to access this course. aqa (7135 & 7136) These specifications have not yet been accredited by Ofqual so may be subject to change before the start of teaching in September HitcHin ScHoolS SixtH Form consortium 15

16 Business & Computing BuSinESS BtEc l3 diploma Sherin The Priory School I wasn t quite sure what subjects I actually wanted to study for Sixth Form. I decided to choose the subjects I was good at when taking my GCSE s as I knew I would have the ability to motivate myself to work hard. I chose Business and ICT. My enthusiasm for business has grown over the past year and I now know I want to study it at University. I have had the opportunity to go out for a two week work experience placement. The teachers have supported me in finding somewhere that is linked to my chosen University course, which is Business and Marketing. I also have the opportunity to take part in a fashion show as one of my assignments. I will work on the marketing side of the event as this will be useful experience for my University application. The BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Business is a practical, work-related course. It is the equivalent of two A levels. During the course there is the opportunity to take part in at least two weeks work experience in an area of business that interests you. The course is made up of four core units and eight specialist units. The core units are: Exploring Business Activity, Investigating Business Resources, Introduction to Marketing and Effective People, Communication and Information. The specialist units include: An Introduction to Marketing Research, Exploring Creative Product Promotion, Investigating Recruitment and Selection and Human Resource Management in Business. You will learn by completing assignments that are based on realistic workplace situations, activities and demands. You will focus on a particular subject area and develop a range of specialist skills and knowledge. There is no examination for this course. All units are internally assessed and graded by your teachers. An overall grade for the qualification is awarded to all learners who successfully complete all units. Grades awarded are pass, merit, distinction or distinction*. BTEC Level 3 Diplomas are valued by employers and lead to career opportunities in business areas such as Finance, Human Resources, Management or Marketing. Learners may also progress into Higher Education Degree Courses. edexcel: BTeC level 3 Diploma 16 HitcHin ScHoolS SixtH Form consortium

17 computer SciEncE AS and A level Advances in computing are transforming the way we work and our new Computer Science specification is changing with the times. The course content includes: Fundamentals of programming Fundamentals of data structures Fundamentals of algorithms Theory of computation Fundamentals of data representation Fundamentals of computer systems You are required to achieve a minimum of a grade B in mathematics at GCSE in order to access this course. aqa (7517) This specification has not yet been accredited by Ofqual so may be subject to change before the start of teaching in September Business & Computing new Qualification Fundamentals of computer organisation and architecture Consequences of uses of computing Fundamentals of communication and networking Fundamentals of databases Big Data James Hitchin Boys School Fundamentals of functional programming Systematic approach to problem solving The computing practical project At A-level assessment of the course is through one on-screen exam, one written exam and a practical computing project. For my A Levels I chose Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Computing. I found these subjects fascinating, and have especially enjoyed utilising the excellent facilities the school offers for these subjects. In fact, I ve enjoyed studying Computing so much that it s inspired me to pursue it at degree level. A level is without a doubt a big jump up from GCSE. However, as long as you dedicate time and effort to your studies, you will pass through the year with flying colours. HitcHin HitcHin ScHoolS ScHoolS SixtH SixtH Form Form consortium consortium 17 17

18 Business & Computing ICT (Applied) A Level This course aims to develop a broad range of ICT skills and knowledge of the uses of ICT in vocational contexts; to develop knowledge and understanding of the components, functions and applications of information systems within a range of organisations; to develop an understanding of the main principles of solving problems using ICT; and to develop the skills necessary to apply this understanding. Currently the following three units are taught at AS level: The Information Age, The Digital Economy and The Knowledge Worker. A further three units are covered at A2: Using Database Software, Managing ICT Projects and Using Multimedia Software. Within these six units you will learn about databases, spreadsheets, specialist ICT software; multimedia design e.g. computer game, animation or video, and systems analysis and design. They will provide opportunities for a detailed study of the Internet and learning how to produce a high quality website. You will develop an understanding of the impact of information systems on organisations personnel, policies and practices and develop project management skills. Assessment for all specifications is through a combination of portfolio based coursework and written examination. Edexcel 8751 and 9752 (TPS) This exciting new course brings the study of ICT up to date for the 21st century. It has the backing of a range of industries, higher education and the National Computing Centre. The course content includes: Practical Problem Solving in the Digital World Living in the Digital World The Use of ICT in the Digital World Coursework: Practical Issues Involved in the Use of ICT in the Digital World At AS the course is assessed through two written exams which are based on practical work completed throughout the year. At A2 the course is assessed through one written exam and a project based piece of coursework. AQA 2520 (HBS) 18 Hitchin Schools Sixth Form Consortium

19 Business & Computing it BtEc l3 SuBSidiArY diploma You will study three units in the first year. The first Communication and Employability Skills for IT, is a compulsory unit that covers the vocational aspects of ICT and examines how ICT has affected communications. It helps you to prepare yourself for working in the ICT industry. The two optional units that you will study are Digital Graphics and Computers and Computer Animation. These are practical units based on using ICT to advance your design skills. During the second year of the course a further three units are studied. The compulsory unit, Computer Systems, is based on understanding the components of an ICT system. The two optional units, Developing Computer Games and Website Production & Management are practical units covering the creation of a computer game and using and managing a website. The course is 100% coursework based. You must pass all assignments to achieve this qualification. This course has a vocational content and can relate directly to employment based in the ICT industry or to a job utilising ICT. The course can also allow you to study ICT at University. edexcel l3 Subsidiary Diploma rebecca The Priory School I chose to study Philosophy and Ethics, Sociology, Health and Social Care and BTEC ICT. I enjoy all of my subjects but I am especially glad that I took BTEC ICT as I have one less exam to worry about and I am able to balance the coursework with my revision well. I have gained many computer skills since taking ICT which will be very useful in the future, such as tools in Photoshop, Dreamweaver and After Effects. The teachers have been really supportive and approachable if I am stuck with my work. I find the course enjoyable as it includes tasks on a range of topics including creating our own prospectus and website. HitcHin ScHoolS SixtH Form consortium 19

20 Language, Literature & Culture French, GERMAN & Spanish A Level Building on GCSE the AS units focus on accessible contemporary issues under the topic headings Media, Popular Culture, Healthy Lifestyle and Family & Relationships. In Unit 1 (worth 70% of the AS marks) you are required to tackle reading and listening comprehension tasks related to these topics, and be required to write an extended piece of target language on a related title. The speaking test, Unit 2, (worth 30% of the total AS marks) requires you to undertake a Discussion of a stimulus card for 5 minutes and then to engage in a general conversation on three of the four prescribed topics. The AS qualification provides an excellent platform for broadening and deepening knowledge of the language and its application in listening, reading, writing and speaking work. Having taken the AS units, students who opt for the full A-Level will proceed to further their grammatical knowledge and improve their linguistic skills. At A2 level, you will study two of five Cultural Topics, together with the three topics of the Environment, the Multicultural Society and Contemporary Social Issues. In Unit 3 (worth 35% of the A Level) you are required to tackle reading and listening comprehension tasks related to these topics, and be required to write an extended piece of target language on a related title. In Unit 4, the Speaking test (worth 15% of the A level) you will undertake a Discussion of a stimulus card for 5 minutes and then engage in a conversation on two cultural topics. Modern Foreign Languages are becoming increasingly important in the Sixth Form because of their everincreasing relevance to the world of work. As well as providing a fascinating insight into other cultures, all courses are designed to provide the opportunity to explore intellectually stimulating topics including social issues and current affairs. Language skills are increasingly sought by employers in a wide range of fields; indeed, many international companies expect fluency in more than one foreign language. As far as the Consortium and universities are concerned, languages are compatible with almost any combination of support subjects, whether arts, sciences, or a mixture. You are required to achieve a minimum of a grade B in your chosen language at GCSE in order to access this course. AQA 2650 (French) AQA 2660 (German) AQA 2695 (Spanish) 20 Hitchin Schools Sixth Form Consortium