Subject & Extension Study Options

The main purpose of any course in Art and Design is to develop your ability to appreciate the visual world, and respond in a personal and creative way. We want to encourage self-expression and creativity and build confidence as well as a sense of individual identity. The creative industries are now Britain’s greatest export; studying Art and Design can help with developing skills and ways of working that will benefit you in the future in whatever career you choose. Employers value people who can think creatively and innovatively; studying Art facilitates this as well as improving your time management skills.  Studying the arts teaches determination and resilience – qualities useful to any career.

Entry Requirements:

The individual creative developments which appear at GCSE form the basis for A Level study. It is therefore essential that a potential A Level Art student should have a genuine interest in the subject, and have achieved at least a grade 6 for Art or Textiles GCSE.

For more information please see the Subject Options document linked at the top of the page.

The ability to speak a foreign language is a hugely important life skill; languages allow you to broaden your horizons, develop your communication skills and enhance your job prospects.  

Languages are the perfect example of facilitating subjects; they combine extremely well with other subjects or can be studied in their own right.  Every year British companies lose out on business due to a lack of language skills among the population which means that language graduates are hugely in demand.  

If you have a love of languages, of how they work and in discovering more about the history and culture of the countries of those languages, then this is the course for you.  Most importantly of all, learning a language is fun and can be a life-enriching experience.  Many people, later in life, speak of their regret at not continuing with a language they enjoyed at GCSE.  Don't let that be you!

Entry Requirements:

You need to have achieved at least a grade 7 in the language at GCSE.

Biological science topics are diverse – from molecular biology to the biosphere. A qualification in Biology equips you with many skills: literacy, numeracy, social awareness and an ability to make connections between natural, social, economic, political and technological fields.

A Level Biology can lead to a wide range of degree courses in Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Genetics, Environmental Science and Psychology. It is desirable for paramedical courses such as Nursing, Physiotherapy, Ophthalmology, Medicine and Veterinary Science. 

Biologists have many opportunities: the pharmaceutical industry, clinical and health professions, conservation, agriculture and forestry.

Entry Requirements:

You need a minimum of grade 7 in GCSE Biology or achieved the equivalent of at least two Grade 7s in the Biology components of the qualification if you have taken a double science qualification.

History makes you valuable - to universities and employers.  The bundle of skills, knowledge and attitudes that historical study delivers is highly attractive in both education and industry.

History makes sense of today's world.  It demands that you use your intelligence to make sense of the complex forces that have come together to create our local, national and global situations.

History transforms you into a researcher and writer who can organise and communicate ideas and arguments; who can talk confidently about the past, and who is ready to challenge their thinking and that of others.

History opens doors on the whole magnificent mess that is the human past.

Entry Requirements:

To study History at A Level, it is usual, but not essential, to have studied the subject at GCSE and have achieved a grade 6 or higher.  If you have not studied History, a 6 in another Humanity subject is required.

Are you amused and entertained by adverts, but wonder about their impact and target market?  Do you want to learn about how your favourite products are made and sold?  Or why brands like Apple, Tiffany’s or Ferrari can charge a premium price for their products? Maybe you enjoy watching Dragon’s Den and the Apprentice, or have your own ideas for a new product or service?  

No matter what your vision, it’s all here in Business A Level, giving you an incredibly powerful start to launch your career with transferable skills and knowledge that will apply to and complement any subjects or career choice. Regardless of whether you’d like to become an entrepreneur or work for any organisation, the Business course will be relevant.  You’ll learn about money and develop skills in budgeting and financial awareness.  Studying people management helps you build leadership skills, while looking at recruitment allows you to develop an eye for what prospective employers are looking for.  

Business A Level gives an overview to what the businesses all around us are doing, studying their management, finance, marketing and operations.

Entry Requirements:

You do not need to have studied Business before, but if you have studied it at GCSE, you need at least a grade 6.

You should have an interest in Business and be prepared to research and discuss business news and issues in class.

Mathematics is a very satisfying subject, challenging and enjoyable for its own sake.  An understanding of Mathematics is at the heart of every modern industry and science.  Mathematical competence is an essential component in physical sciences, technology, business and Medicine.  In today’s world, Mathematics has an important role in providing the key skills needed in many different careers.  It provides a logical approach and intellectual rigour that contribute to an ability to solve a wide variety of problems.

For able students who have an enthusiasm for Mathematics and enjoy its challenge, there is the opportunity to study for another A Level in Further Mathematics.  This involves studying a further 4 modules and statistics show that doing Further Mathematics boosts your A Level Mathematics grade.

Entry Requirements:

Grade 7 in GCSE Mathematics.  

Grade 8 in GCSE and 56 points from your best 8 GCSEs to study Further Mathematics.

Chemistry is the science that sits firmly at the cross-roads where the purity and rigour of the scientific method meet creativity and imagination and it therefore has its own demands and rewards.  Chemistry gives you an extremely flexible set of skills that are highly valued in the academic world and which are essential for the ever-changing demands of the modern workplace.  

A Level Chemistry is a valued qualification and many scientific, clinical and commercial courses either specifically require or prefer their candidates to have gained a post-16 qualification in Chemistry.  You might even want to study Chemistry just for the pure enjoyment that such a fusion of creativity and pure science can bring.  

Through studying A Level Chemistry you develop an understanding of how the very fabric of the Universe is 'bolted together', whilst at the same time gaining perhaps the most highly-valued grounding in creative thinking available at this level.  Perhaps the question should be: can you afford not to study Chemistry?

You need a minimum of grade 7 in GCSE Chemistry or achieved the equivalent of at least two Grade 7s in the Chemistry components of the qualification if you have taken a double science qualification.

Entry Requirements:

If you have a grade 7 or lower in GCSE Mathematics, you are also required to take either AS Mathematics or the Maths for Physical Sciences course as your Extension Study, if you are not taking A Level Mathematics.

For more information please see the Subject Options document linked at the top of the page.

Music A Level is both a creative and academic course giving students the opportunity to develop a deep understanding and appreciation of music in all of its forms. It gives a fascinating insight into how music is created and performed across a wide range of styles and periods.

Through their study, students develop highly developed performing and composing skills alongside critical analysis, listening and appraising of music.

Highly respected by universities, Music A Level shows a student is both an academic individual as well as being well-rounded and creative.

In order to assist with the cost of instrumental / vocal lessons, Aylesbury High School will fund a course of 30 lessons, up to a maximum of £540, for students taking A Level music.

Entry Requirements:

Grade 6 in GCSE Music is desirable, but not essential, with a good understanding of Grade 5 theory requirements. Students should have the potential to be Grade 6 standard on your instrument/voice by the end of the course. What is important is an enthusiasm for performing and/or composition and a genuine interest in exploring all styles of music.

Computer Science is a discipline that offers rewarding and challenging possibilities for a wide range of people regardless of their range of interests. Computer Science requires and develops capabilities in solving deep, multidimensional problems requiring imagination and sensitivity to a variety of concerns.

It is a practical subject where you can apply the academic principles learned in the classroom to real-world systems. It is an intensely creative subject that combines invention and critical thinking; key skills for your future career in the numerous Computing related Courses available at University.

Entry Requirements:

You need a minimum of grade 6 in GCSE Maths and a 6 in GCSE Computing if you have taken it.  To succeed in Computer Science you also need to think logically, be analytical and have a creative approach to work.

Studying A Level Physical Education gives you a fantastic insight into the amazing world of sports performance.  Not only will you have the chance to perform or coach a sport through the non-exam assessment component, you also develop a wide ranging knowledge into the how and why of physical activity and sport.  The combination of physical performance and academic challenge provides an exciting opportunity for students.  

Physical Education is studied through a range of different contexts and the impact it has on both our own and others’ everyday lives.  You learn the reasons why we do things, why some people outperform others, mentally and physically.  You will delve into the ethical considerations behind the use of drugs and also the influence that modern technology is having on physical activity and sport.  

A Level Physical Education is an excellent base for a university degree in sports science, sports management, physiotherapy, healthcare, or exercise and health.

Entry Requirements:

If you have studied Physical Education at GCSE level, a grade 6 is required.  Several topics covered in the course are developments of work covered at GCSE but many are new.  If you have not studied GCSE PE, a grade 6 in Biology is required.

We also require you to be playing or coaching in your sporting activity to a high level.Your  final grade will be a combination of both practical and theory examination marks.

A Level Dance is ideal for those students with a passion for Dance or Performing Arts who enjoy and benefit from the challenge of a creative, practically based course.

You develop your technical skills through more intensive training in a range of styles, with a focus on Contemporary and Jazz dance. You will have regular opportunities to learn from professional artists, not only through the set works but also through workshops and theatre visits. You will explore and extend your understanding of the craft of choreography with the opportunity to showcase your work.

As a natural progression from GCSE, A Level Dance has a strong theory element and you will develop your skills in analysis, evaluation and extended writing. You will also learn about the history of Dance through studying the work of a range of professional dance practitioners, gaining a greater understanding of how dance today has been influenced by innovators of the past. The compulsory area of study looks at the progression of Rambert Dance Company from 1966 -2002 and how key practitioners such as Christopher Bruce, Richard Alston & Robert North influenced key developments. The second area of study looks at the evolution of American Jazz from 1940 - 1975, with specific focus on Gene Kelly, Bob Fosse & Jerome Robbins. 

A Level Dance is an excellent base for a university degree in Dance or Creative Arts and can lead to a career path in performance, teaching, Arts Management and Arts Journalism.

Entry Requirements:

It is preferred that you have studied Dance at GCSE level but is not a requirement and students with a background in Dance are welcome to apply. You should have attained GCSE English grade 6 or above and should take at least one technique based dance class per week outside of school.

Physics is a fascinating subject that tries to explain how the world works – from an appreciation of how motion occurs to the existence of antimatter. It involves applying concepts and your mathematical skills to solve problems, although complex sometimes it can really enhance your understanding of why things behave the way they do. Physics really is around us all the time. You may need to study Physics for your future career or university course but equally you may want to study it purely for enjoyment alongside any other subject.

Entry Requirements:

You need a minimum of grade 7 in GCSE Physics or achieved the equivalent of at least two Grade 7s in the Physics components of the qualification if you have taken a double science qualification.

You need a minimum of a grade 6 in GCSE Maths.

If you have a grade 7 or lower in GCSE Mathematics, you are also required to take either Core Mathematics or the Maths for Physical Sciences course as your Extension Study, if you are not taking A Level Mathematics.

This course is an exciting and inspiring programme which prepares you for further study in Higher Education whether in Drama and Theatre or any other subject area. The transferable skills on offer range from developing your confidence, teamwork and public speaking abilities, as well as practising your research skills and creative thinking. You are given the opportunity to work as either performers and/or designers on three different performances. In Component 1 you will reinterpret a text to create a piece of theatre which is a combination of the selected text and original ideas. In Component 2 you will use a stimulus to create two pieces of theatre; similar to work completed at GCSE. In both components you are encouraged to make connections between dramatic theory and your own practice including a continued focus on voice, movement and interaction skills. Component 1 and 2 are completed by April in Y13 leaving ample time to prepare for Component 3 in the summer term.

Entry Requirements:
A grade 6 in Drama or in a related subject (eg English or Dance) if you have not taken it at GCSE. It is advised that students wishing to enrol without having taken GCSE Drama have significant experience in performance and speak to Mrs Hughes before selecting this option. A genuine interest in all forms of drama and theatre, plus the ability to work with others, be adaptable, and cope with performance to an audience and examiners.

"Politics is too important to be left to politicians" - so why not choose to study it in the Sixth Form?  

If you want to understand how politics works and where power lies, what parties stand for and how countries are governed, Politics might be for you.  It is a valuable qualification for Law, Journalism, History, International Relations and Politics and any other potential career that requires an awareness of the world, the ability to think critically and to write clearly.

Politics combines well with all other subjects, especially Arts subjects like History and Economics, but it is open to all who wish to preserve a broad balance. For those who wish to go on to university, there are many courses available; from straight Politics or International Relations to joint degrees with History, Languages, Economics or English.

Entry Requirements:

You need a grade 6 or higher in a GCSE Humanities subject, or a 6 in English.  You should enjoy reading, discussion, research and essay writing.  You will need to have an interest in reading different newspapers and following current affairs programmes on radio and television, so that the ideas and issues which you put forward are informed and up-to-date.

Are you curious about how the world works?  Economics has the answer.  It is the study of how we can satisfy our infinite wants, with the scarce resources available on earth.  

Why are there such contrasts between wealth and poverty in our world?  How can we keep consuming goods and services while minimising the impact on the environment?  What does the government do to improve living standards, reduce prices and reduce unemployment?  How have globalisation and trade contributed to the Brexit vote and Trump’s election win?

Economics is about choice and the impact of our choices on each other.  It relates to every aspect of our lives, from the decisions we make as individuals and families to the structures created by governments and firms.  The economic way of thinking can help us make better choices.

Entry Requirements:

You do not need to have studied Economics or Business GCSE before, but if you have studied at GCSE, you need at least a grade 6.  You will need to write a structured essay and to do some mathematics, so you will need at least a grade 6 in GCSE Maths. You will be expected to keep up to date by reading a newspaper or following news in the media.

This creative and thought-provoking qualification gives students the practical skills, theoretical knowledge and confidence to succeed in a number of careers, especially those in the creative industries. Students will gain a real understanding of what it means to be a designer, alongside the knowledge and skills sought by higher education and employers.

Entry Requirements:

The course builds on the skills and knowledge learnt during a GCSE course. You need to have gained a grade 6 in Engineering or another Design and Technology subject at GCSE. It is well suited to students who have an interest in designing and the way that technology affects our lives. Students who have studied any GCSE D&T subject are encouraged to consider studying this at A Level.

Language is woven into every aspect of our lives; it is the colour through which we see the world. 

On this course you will learn about the development of the English language, how it changes over time and still contains shards of the past like layers of history in an archaeological dig. You will discover the magical process of how children learn to speak, from gurgles and babbles to the tongue-trippingly difficult “hippopotamus”. Just ask a two-year old. You will see how much of who you are is what you say – often what you don’t – and how language is about power and control, about gender, identity, culture and politics, and everything in between. It’s really quite marvellous. 

From speech therapists to forensic linguists to voice activated machines (hey Alexa), studying English Language opens up a world beyond the traditional. But if you are interested in History, Law, Psychology, the Classics, as well as any Modern foreign Language, A Level English Language is a perfect complement. 

And don’t forget, if you are considering a degree or joint honours degree in English, you will certainly need to study A Level English Literature. However there’s no reason why you can’t study both.

Entry Requirements:

You will need an average grade 6 or higher in GCSE English Language and English Literature to take this course.

Psychology is the scientific study of human behaviour. It is a fascinating subject, providing insight into mental processes and behaviours from the everyday to the extraordinary.

A diverse range of topics are covered on the A Level Psychology course, including the study of mental health issues, social psychology, forensic psychology, biological psychology, infant attachment, memory and gender. Students will find out about key psychological experiments that have been conducted to try to understand human behaviour. They also explore the theories and treatments that have evolved from these experiments. For example, in the Psychopathology unit students consider the possible biological and psychological causes of mental health conditions including phobias, depression and OCD, critically evaluating the evidence offered to support each theory. They go on to consider the most effective treatments for these conditions, from talking therapies such as CBT to drug therapies, such as antidepressants. 

Students also learn the practical tools for conducting psychological research and how to analyse and interpret research findings. These research methods form a core part of the A Level course and provide students with an evidence-based approach which is invaluable to a variety of future careers. Further transferable skills developed on the A Level Psychology course include, essay writing, computer-literacy, independent research, collaborative group work, numeracy and critical thinking skills.

Entry Requirements:

Psychology is part of the science curriculum area and you will need at least a 6 in GCSE Biology or a 6, 6 in Science if you have taken a double science qualification. At least a 6 in GCSE English and Maths are also required as the written content for this course is significant and the course involves the analysis and application of statistical data.

A lot of the people we love do not exist. Some aren’t even people. Some are impossible. We’ve even been known to form some serious attachments to unusual objects. But there they are, on the page, realised inside our heads - or on stage, in film - and sometimes they become so important that they form a part of us, stay with us, familiar, reliable, like an old friend that we can turn to again and again. Even if they’re a monster. 

And it’s why we study English Literature: to explore the magical ways in which the simple act of stringing word after word can create entire countries out of thin air.   

Studying English Literature will involve thinking. Thinking about thinking, thinking about everything in the world and out of this world (for there are no limits to what literature might be about). Studying literature will involve analysing and interpreting and discussing and debating. Your essays will be informed and coherent but above all opinionated. Studying literature will be rigorous, exacting, disciplined, difficult - and fun.

As a highly respected A Level, English Literature can be instrumental in helping students gain university places in a variety of subjects, even if you chose not to study the subject further.

And remember, as someone much wiser than us once said, just because it’s happening inside your head, it doesn’t mean it’s not real.

Entry Requirements:

You will need an average grade 6 or higher in GCSE English Language and English Literature to take this course.

This A Level encourages students to:

• develop an interest and enthusiasm for a rigorous study of Religion, Philosophy and Ethics

• treat the subject as an academic discipline by developing knowledge and understanding

• evaluate the ideas studied and apply them to their own experience and the wider world

• use an enquiring, critical and empathetic approach to the study of Religion, Philosophy and Ethics

• develop skills that are transferable to many other disciplines and attractive to universities; analysis, evaluation, presenting ideas in clear and coherent ways, organising arguments and independent learning

Entry Requirements:

A 6 in Religious Studies GCSE is a requirement if you have taken it. Alternatively a 6 in another Humanities GCSE or English Literature GCSE. A lively interest in the study of ideas and human motivation and a willingness to enquire into and analyse concepts and ideas which differ from your own. Also a willingness to discuss your own and others' ideas.

The ability to speak a foreign language is a hugely important life skill; languages allow you to broaden your horizons, develop your communication skills and enhance your job prospects.  

Languages are the perfect example of facilitating subjects; they combine extremely well with other subjects or can be studied in their own right.  Every year British companies lose out on business due to a lack of language skills among the population which means that language graduates are hugely in demand.  

If you have a love of languages, of how they work and in discovering more about the history and culture of the countries of those languages, then this is the course for you.  Most importantly of all, learning a language is fun and can be a life-enriching experience.  Many people, later in life, speak of their regret at not continuing with a language they enjoyed at GCSE.  Don't let that be you!

Entry Requirements:

You need to have achieved at least a grade 7 in the language at GCSE.

The study of A Level Sociology focuses on an understanding of contemporary society. Studying Sociology fosters the development of critical and reflective thinking with a respect for social diversity. It also provides an awareness of the importance of social structure and social action in explaining social issues. Students are encouraged to develop their own sociological awareness through active engagement with the contemporary social world.

The Eduqas A Level in Sociology encourages students to: 

• acquire knowledge and a critical understanding of contemporary social processes and social changes 

• appreciate the significance of theoretical and conceptual issues in sociological debate 

• understand and evaluate sociological methodology and a range of research methods through active involvement in the research process 

• develop skills that enable individuals to focus on their personal identity, roles and responsibilities within society 

• develop a lifelong interest in social issues. 

Studying sociology at A Level will give you an awareness of the social, political and economic issues that shape society. It will help you develop greater empathy towards communities that differ from your own and open your mind to a diverse range of ideas and beliefs.

Entry Requirements:

You will need a grade 6 or higher in a GCSE Humanities subject, or a 6 in English.  You should enjoy reading, discussion, research and essay writing.  You will need to have an interest in current affairs and staying up to date with a range of social and political issues.

Geography is a 'facilitating' subject that develops the transferable, key skills that employers are looking for; and can lead to a very wide range of employment opportunities. According to the Royal Geographical Society and Institute for Fiscal Studies  '5 years after graduation, geography graduates have an above average likelihood of gaining employment' and for Geography graduate earnings 'women earn 10% more than average graduate salaries.'

You will investigate the forces influencing our natural environment; the issues affecting people and the places where we live; consider how people affect the environment; the forces that drive the world economy and the decisions being made about the use and management of resources. You will gain a deeper appreciation of current events and world problems during what is an exciting and intrinsically contemporary course.

Entry Requirements:

A 6 in Geography GCSE is a requirement if you have taken it.  Alternatively, a 6 in another humanity GCSE.

The ability to speak a foreign language is a hugely important life skill; languages allow you to broaden your horizons, develop your communication skills and enhance your job prospects.  

Languages are the perfect example of facilitating subjects; they combine extremely well with other subjects or can be studied in their own right.  Every year British companies lose out on business due to a lack of language skills among the population which means that language graduates are hugely in demand.  

If you have a love of languages, of how they work and in discovering more about the history and culture of the countries of those languages, then this is the course for you.  Most importantly of all, learning a language is fun and can be a life-enriching experience.  Many people, later in life, speak of their regret at not continuing with a language they enjoyed at GCSE.  Don't let that be you!

Entry Requirements:

You need to have achieved at least a grade 7 in the language at GCSE.

Arts Award Gold is a nationally recognised award that is perfect for students who have an existing interest in the Arts and who are already involved in activities in or outside of school. The course enables you to continue to develop your chosen Art form, explore other Arts areas and lead and manage an Arts project.  ‘Arts’ includes: Performing arts (Music, Dance and Drama), visual arts, craft and design, literature and digital arts.

You do not need to have taken an Arts A level but it is essential that you are passionate about the Arts and are already involved in Arts activities either in school or in your own time. You do not need to have completed the Arts Award Bronze or Silver.

This is a really interesting extension study for anyone who wants to understand current global issues and events. We will look at relationships between nation states and large intergovernmental organisations like the EU, UN or World Health Organisation. There will be lots of debate and group work and you will adapt a country to represent throughout the year. 

There are no formal entry requirements and you can be studying any combination of A Levels to take this course.  What you do need to have is

• a genuine interest in global politics and international affairs

• a willingness to work independently and as part of a team

• the determination to research a topic and understand unfamiliar perspectives

• an enthusiastic approach to discussion and debate

The qualification provides many opportunities for learning and development.  It is a nationally recognised qualification at Level 2 and, as a Vocationally Related Qualification (VRQ), it focuses on the application, rather than the accumulation of knowledge.

You need enthusiasm to lead others and an interest in sport and activity.  It is a fun and practical qualification with no entrance requirements or final examinations to sit.

Experience tells us that if you are taking Chemistry but not Maths, you may struggle with the mathematical content of the course. This course therefore helps you to make Chemistry much easier because you have the time to exercise your numeracy skills as well as algebra and practice in manipulating equations.

There is a lot of research to show that being confident in maths throughout the A level Physics course is key to making progress and achieving what you are capable of.  Experience has taught us that if you study Physics without Maths, you may struggle with the mathematical aspects of the course. This course therefore helps you maintain your maths skills while learning more complex techniques such as using logarithms and exponential functions. 

It should be noted however, if you intend on studying Physics or Engineering beyond school, universities will require A level Mathematics as well as Physics.

This course is intended for Physics and Chemistry students who are not taking Maths A Level and scored a 6 or 7 at GCSE Maths. We feel that if you achieved a 8 or 9, then your skills should be strong enough already.

Core Maths focuses on applying maths to solve real life problems, and has been developed with support from employers and higher education institutions. The courses are designed to:

• consolidate and build mathematical understanding

• foster the ability to think mathematically and apply maths in unfamiliar situations

• support students’ learning in other subjects requiring quantitative skills

• prepare students for the real-life mathematical demands of further study and employment

The qualification is particularly valuable for any student planning a future that requires good quantitative skills, whether that be in higher education or employment. Degrees such as Biology, Geography and Business Studies all expect a high level of mathematical competency that can be supported by studying Core Maths.

A grade 5 in GCSE Mathematics is needed.

This option will provide you with the skills and knowledge to manage your money well and make sound financial decisions. It will help prepare you for financial independence at university, at work and beyond.

You’ll learn negotiation skills for loans and mortgages, the financial crisis and resulting recession, how to make the most of your money, to live within your means and strategies of how to obtain assets and increase your individual wealth.

You will get to understand student finances, university fees and loans.  As well as opportunities for careers and apprenticeship routes.

No specific entry requirements.

The EPQ provides an opportunity for students to extend their abilities beyond the A Level syllabus, stand out and prepare for university or their future career. Students perform individual research and write a 5,000 word essay on a topic which interests them; often a topic related to your proposed course of study at university, or produce an artefact accompanied by a 3000 word report.

There are no entry requirements for EPQ - you will need to be a motivated and organised independent learner.

As well as being fun, you will gain experience of leading sessions for primary students, which could be useful preparation for a range of careers.  You will be working with the same group of students all year so will gain the satisfaction of seeing them make progress.

‘I like being able to help younger children in our community and it has definitely developed my leadership skills.’ Tabi

‘Even though I don’t want to go into teaching, working with the children has improved my confidence.  I’ve also had to work as a team on planning activities and I’ve had to think about my time management.’  Emily

‘I’ve loved helping the children improve their skills and seeing them develop.  Sometimes it’s tempting to give them the answer to a problem they are struggling with, but it’s much more satisfying to learn to ask the right questions so that they can find the solutions themselves.’  Aditi

There are no specific entry requirements for this choice.

Film is arguably the art form of the 20th century. AS Film Studies is ideal for students who want to explore how and why films are made.

Across the course you will explore and creatively engage with a wide range of different aspects of filmmaking. You will analyse a variety of texts, including American, British, and European cinema. These will be examined via different frameworks, including form, context, narrative, meaning and response, spectatorship, ideology. You will explore the creative and technical choices that impact on how a film produces meaning, discuss with peers, and develop a sophisticated contextual understanding of the world at the time these films were created.

A grade 7 in English, Drama, History, Geography or RS and / or a commitment to continued study in English or Drama at A level as these subjects will involve similar essay writing structures and techniques.

Several A Level subjects now have an increased mathematical content.  This course is designed to support students who are not taking AS or A Level Maths but need specific statistical skills beyond GCSE Maths for A Levels such as Biology, Economics, Geography and Psychology.

There are no specific entry requirements.

Today, young people need to be more adaptable than ever before, prepared to change career direction in response to opportunity and to learn new skills throughout their working lives.  In other words, they need to be enterprising.
Young Enterprise’s Company Programme gives thousands of students each year the opportunity to prepare for this working life through the experience of running their own company, supported by volunteer advisers from business.
Students aged 17 to 19 set up and run their company over the course of one academic year.  They elect a board of directors from amongst their peers, raise share capital, and market and finance a product or service of their own choice.  At the end of the year they present a report and accounts to their shareholders.  Students gain experience of the real world, taking responsibility and being accountable to their shareholders for the running of the business. They attend Trade Fairs at which they sell their product or service.  An annual competition identifies the top companies in the UK and Europe.

The course builds on the skills and knowledge of each individual. You need to be able to attend weekend trade shows (3 a year) and evening training events (around 4 a year). The company will start in September and run for 8 months, to cease trading at Easter.