Portslade Aldridge Community Academy Science Academy Prospectus

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1 Portslade Aldridge Community Academy Science Academy Prospectus

2 Mission Statement Our mission is to change lives and bring about positive outcomes for all our learners. The Science Academy holds an ethos whereby all individuals are nurtured to ensure their highest possible potential. We encourage our students to develop their personal interests in science whilst developing a passion for learning that will facilitate further education and career opportunities. PACA promotes independent learning so that each student takes responsibility for their studies and develops an entrepreneurial spirit that strives for success. Students within the Academy are encouraged to manage their own education, whilst under the close guidance of teaching staff to prepare them for the challenges of both university education and the world of work. PACA encourages students to become leaders within the school environment and beyond. They are offered various roles such as becoming a prefect, in mentoring and peer support to help develop their sense of social responsibility and allow students to make a positive contribution to the local and wider community. We aim to foster social entrepreneurship and create a culture that values compassionate, active and responsible citizens. Our ultimate aim is to fully prepare the next generation of world-class scientists for an exciting and productive career. We hope that the academy will not only benefit those with a current passion for science, but also inspire others to develop an interest in this area.

3 Head of Sixth Form s Message I am really pleased that you are considering joining PACA s Science Academy. I am passionate about the success of this academy and all of the students in our care. Our aim is to ensure that all students have the very best opportunities available to them when they complete their courses. This is why we have developed a curriculum that is built around your individual needs to enable you to fulfil your potential. PACA has a passion for science and actively supports the work STEM Sussex has developed for young scientists. I want PACA scientists to access the very best science employment opportunities and graduate research programmes so they can contribute to this exciting and diverse field. We have developed close links with local science industries and universities to ensure that our students are prepared for a successful career in science. Our Science Academy is dedicated to supporting STEM research and will provide support and guidance to students and external partners alike. I very much look forward to meeting you and welcoming all of our new students into the Science Academy. Mr Jamie Harrocks Vice Principal, Sixth Form and Extended School Head of Science s Message The science department at PACA is embarking on an incredibly exciting journey with the opening of our new Science Academy. I am incredibly excited about what the future holds for the academy, our students and our STEM partners. As well as offering the traditional A-levels and vocational science courses, PACA s Science Academy will enable students to access a range of enrichment activities involving our STEM partners. These opportunities include university and industry guided project work, work experience placements, visits and STEM specific education and careers advice. I am passionate in my determination to turn the Science Academy at PACA into the place to study science in Sussex. With new facilities, state of the art labs, equipment and flourishing links with our STEM partners there has never been a better time to join PACA and embark on this exciting journey with us. I look forward to welcoming and working with those of you who successfully secure a place at the academy. Mr Neil Wells Head of Science

4 Facilities and Curriculum The 12.7 million campus refurbishment at PACA includes new state of the art Science laboratories (wet and dry), an outdoor balcony and a dedicated STEM Centre. As part of the curriculum and enrichment offer that PACA is making to future students, a new Science Academy will sit alongside our other highly successful Academies such as cricket. These are aimed at extending young peoples skills and capabilities beyond their examination studies. The Science Academy will enthuse and motivate the scientists, technologists, engineers and mathematicians of the future. It will offer students the opportunity to work alongside science teachers and laboratory technicians from the Science Department, as well as local leaders from STEM based industries and university researchers. We are developing a catalogue of local STEM partners and employers from science, technology, engineering and maths disciplines who will be working with us to enrich the learning experience of our students. Through our links with local universities, we aim to integrate our scientists into active research environments allowing them to develop a working knowledge of current scientific techniques across Biology, Chemistry and Physics. This will hopefully develop high quality entrants into STEM professions and provide opportunities for our students to advance.

5 Curriculum Offer Our goal is to enrich the lives of all our students and for them all to be successful. This means providing a curriculum that is personalised so that all students can thrive in their studies, enjoy their work and progress post 18/19. There are three curriculum pathways you can follow whilst being part of PACA s Science Academy. Choosing the right pathway We recommend that you : l Read the more detailed subject/course descriptions found on our websites l Consider the grades that your subject teachers predict that you might get l Take your time to find out about all of the subjects / courses that interest you and are relevant to your possible career l Pick subjects / courses that you enjoy and are good at l Use this prospectus to record your ideas as you discuss subjects with staff and your parents. Pathway Courses Minimum entry requirements Academic and 4 subjects 5 GCSE grades Vocational A*- C including A Levels English and Maths and if applicable additional requirements at GCSE Vocational 3 subjects plus 5 GCSE grades A Levels either English or A*- C either equivalents Maths GCSE re-sit English or Maths Level 2 GCSE English and 5 GCSE grades (GCSE Maths re-sit and A*- G equivalent) BTEC courses The Pathways Explained A Levels Pathway An A level is a traditional Level 3 academic qualification. The qualifications are studied over a two year period. There is one final examination at the end of the course. Grades are awarded at A* E level. Each grade has an equivalent number of UCAS points, which will be used by universities to make students offers of places on degree courses. (A* = 120 points E = 40 points). Vocational (A Level Equivalents) Pathway A BTEC or CNC National Level 3 course is a vocational qualification. The qualifications are studied over a two year period. The courses are usually made up of portfolio based work and have practical assessments included. These qualifications suit students who can manage a steady workload and are interested in the practical elements of an area of study. Grades are awarded at: Distinction the equivalent of a grade A at A level, Merit the equivalent of a grade C at A level, and Pass the equivalent of a grade E at A level. Each grade has an equivalent number of UCAS points, which will be used by universities to make offers of places on degree courses. (A* = 120 points E = 40 points). Level 2 GCSE and GCSE Equivalents Pathway This pathway is designed for students who have not achieved grades C or above in English and Maths. The pathway is designed to support you in achieving level 2 qualifications to aid your progression. This is a year-long programme which offers a full GCSE English and Maths programme of study. Students will also study two other vocational subjects to GCSE level. Level 2 students progress onto level 3 courses if successful in achieving a C or above in both English and Maths, and passing your vocational courses. Alternatively, if you wish you can also move onto an apprenticeship, a job with training or start your own business at the end of the year. Subjects in each pathway at PACA A Level Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Maths, Geography, Psychology, Sociology, English Literature, English Creative Writing, Accounting, Economics, History, Art, Textiles, Photography, Law, Government and Politics, PE, Dance, French and Spanish Vocational Level 3 Courses Science, Health & Social Care, ICT, Business Studies, Sport, Music, Travel and Tourism, Media and Performing Arts. All are available as double A Level equivalents therefore earning twice as many UCAS points Foundation Level 2 Courses GCSE English and Maths, Business or Public Services, ICT or Health and Social Care *Courses running are subject to student uptake

6 Biology A Level Why study Biology? Biology involves the study of a wide range of exciting topics, ranging from molecular biology to the study of ecosystems and from microorganisms to mammoths. What skills will I gain from studying Biology? l How to collect data and evaluate it l How to investigate facts and use deduction l How to put over your point of view effectively l How to take responsibility for your own learning What goes well with Biology? Biology is one of the most popular A Level subjects in the country attracting students studying a wide range of other subjects. Students often study from a wide range of subjects, including Psychology, Sociology, PE, Chemistry, Physics and Health and Social Care. Where can Biology lead? Biology is a great choice of subject for students who are aiming for a career in health and clinical professions, such as medicine, dentistry, veterinary science, physiotherapy, pharmacy, optometry, nursing, zoology, marine biology or forensic science. Some students go on to careers in law, computing, accounting or teaching. It is a rewarding and challenging course that will develop many of the skills essential for a successful career. Entry criteria A minimum grade B must be obtained at GCSE Science/Additional Science or GCSE Biology.

7 Chemistry A Level Why study Chemistry? Chemistry is all around us. Chemistry is about our lives and how we build our world for future generations. Chemistry is interesting and relevant since it affects every part of modern life. Solutions are continually being found to everyday problems. It concerns materials, water treatment, communications, air quality, energy conservation, pain relief and food. The list is endless. What skills will I gain from studying Chemistry? l To work effectively as part of a team and individually to obtain good results l Carry out and make deductions from investigative work and problem solving l To express your point of view fluently What goes well with Chemistry? There are many other subjects that go alongside Chemistry such as Biology, Physics, Mathematics, Geography and Psychology to name but a few. Some further education degrees link Chemistry with languages including an industrial placement year abroad. Where can Chemistry lead? It may lead to a career in health and clinical professions such as medicine, nursing, biochemistry, dentistry or forensic science or perhaps a career in industry; for example petrochemicals or pharmaceuticals. The transferable skills that Chemistry develops are extremely well thought of in many sectors including finance and accountancy. Entry criteria A genuine interest and enthusiasm for Chemistry. A minimum grade B must be obtained at GCSE Science/Additional Science or GCSE Chemistry.

8 Physics A Level Why study Physics? A Level Physics is the study into everything and how it works. It is an opportunity to ask exciting questions about the world around you and study theories that are yet to be proven. What skills will I gain from studying Physics? l An appreciation of how Science works in practice l The relevance of Science beyond the laboratory l Analytical, evaluative and synoptic skills l Practical skills, including the ability to plan and manipulate information and data What goes well with Physics? Maths and Physics are very closely related subjects and form a good combination. Maths is a prerequisite for further study in Physics. Physics with a literary subject such as English or History prepares students well for a career in finance or law. Physics with any other science is a common combination and opens up many avenues of opportunity: medicine, materials science or structural engineering. Where can Physics lead? Physics is an extremely desirable subject for employers and students with a Physics qualification could enter careers in research in the physical sciences, engineering, medicine, sports science, law, finance, accounting, electronics engineering and robotics to name a few. There are many other possibilities. Entry criteria A minimum grade B must be obtained at GCSE Science/Additional Science or GCSE Physics.

9 BTEC National in Applied Science Why study BTEC Science? This qualification is an alternative to A Levels and is accepted as an entry requirement for university and further education colleges. It is also highly valued by employers. It is an opportunity to further your study and interest in Science by producing a portfolio of work. What skills will I gain from studying Science? l Develop your practical skills as part of a team and individually l Research, note taking, ICT and debate l Good time management, independent study and organisational skills What goes well with BTEC National in Applied Science? Students with appropriate GCSE qualifications can also take an AS subject alongside their main BTEC programme. Students tend to take Maths, Psychology, Sociology or Art or perhaps GCSE Maths or GCSE English if needed. Where can BTEC Science lead? BTEC Science may lead onto a range of higher education courses or employment opportunities including radiography, engineering, nursing, pharmacy, chemical engineering, quantity surveying, psychology, genetics, veterinary science, biochemistry and forensic science. Degree programmes may include biochemistry, food science or zoology to name but a few examples. Entry criteria A minimum of 4 GCSE s grade C or above including Core and Additional Science or 2 GCSE s grade C or above and a Merit in BTEC Level 2 in Applied Science.

10 STEM Scholarships Scholarships will be available for a small number of students. An application process will be advertised and eligible students encouraged to apply. Science scholarships at PACA are designed to enhance performance and progress through access to additional resources including residential revision courses, personal ICT provision and the opportunity to represent PACA as a STEM ambassador. The PACA STEM Centre What is a STEM Centre? STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths, and the Centre will focus on these core subjects, all of which support PACA s ethos of entrepreneurship and ingenuity. PACA s STEM Centre is a focal point to enhance and enrich the student experience of STEM subjects and to help them become aware of the wealth of opportunities in STEM related careers. The Centre has been developed in partnership with STEM Sussex, local universities and industry representatives to provide high quality education and training and to facilitate events and activities. Students will have the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research projects alongside university researchers with access to cutting edge laboratories and industry facilities.

11 Our new STEM Centre accommodates state of the art wet and dry laboratories, lecture rooms, conference facilities and individual business incubation pods where students can participate in the development of up and coming businesses, learning valuable skills as well as assisting with new business growth. An innovative approach to STEM education will prepare students for the challenging world of work. Partner employers will provide work placement opportunities and ensure our courses are aligned to current workplace practices, both of which will provide our students with the competitive edge. With this approach we aim to provide a workforce well equipped to meet the needs of business and the local economy. STEM graduates are highly sought after by employers, both locally and nationally. Completing STEM based studies at A Level and beyond, not only broadens a student s appeal to future employers, but also provides an exciting and solid foundation to develop key skills for the future. In this way, the PACA STEM Centre will: l l l Provide greater educational choice and progression pathways for PACA Science Academy students Boost apprenticeship and employment opportunities for young people Act as a catalyst for collaboration and enterprise

12 Portslade Aldridge Community Academy Chalky Road, Portslade, Brighton, East Sussex T: Academy Sponsor The Aldridge Foundation First Floor, Swan Gardens, 10 Piccadilly, London W1J 0DD T: Academy Partners Designed and produced by The Icon Design partnership