Courses:-Thurston-Sixth (ID 1043)

• Applied Business
  Applied Business

  Business is a real world subject. Whatever your choice of career you need to understand the decisions businesses make and how and why they are made.

  At a glance: Applied Business: Level 3 Extended Certificate

  Specific Entry Requirements: Grade 4 in Business Studies (interview required)

  Teacher to contact: Amanda McIntosh

  Is this the course for you? Are are you interested in: Setting up a business of your own?  Understanding the environment in which businesses operate? Strategic business decisions? Influences on customer behaviour?

  Progression: A recognised qualification which enables you to access careers from Management to Design, to a career in the Forces or working in the Hospitality industry to setting up your own business.

  Teaching Methods: Students will learn through a series of structured lessons before doing their own independent work, they will also be required to work in teams.

  Exam Board: AQA Applied General

• Art and Design
  Art and Design

  This course extends the creative skills and experiences of GCSE, exploring a wide range of media, materials, artists and processes.  A personal approach to skills development and the exploration of art is encouraged.

  At a glance: Art and Design A Level

  Specific Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in Art and Design or Textiles.  If you have not studies Art at GCSE you will be required to  present a portfolio of work during departmental interview.

  Teacher to contact:  Mrs Gemma Gibson

  Is this the course for you?  Are you interested in:  Media and materials? Fine art and print-making? 3-D design? Graphics, illustration and design? Artists and museums?

  Teaching Methods: Studio practice with two specialist teachers, one of whom will act as a personal tutor during your course.  You will explore and build upon a variety of Art and Design disciplines across traditional and new media.  Regular one day visits to view major contemporary exhibitions and galleries to supplement the contextual studies element of the course.

  Exam Board: Pearson Edexcel

• Biology
  Biology

  BIOLOGY

  Biology is the study of the mechanisms that underpin all living organisms.  It covers the rapidly changing fields of genetics and biotechnology.

  At a glance: Biology A  Level

  Specific Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in Mathematics and either Double 6 in Science or Grade 6 in Biology.

  Teacher to contact: Mr Nathan Davis

  Is this the course for you?  Are you  interested in: The human body? How science contributes to modern society? Disease risk factors? Medical developments? Our impact on the environment?

  Progression: If Biology is taken to A Level it can lead to careers in Environmental Sciences, Medical, Paramedical and Veterinary Sciences, Biotechnology industries and a wide range of other careers where biologists' numeracy, literacy and problem solving skills are high valued.

  Teaching Methods: Lectures, practicals, group work, research activities, visits and visiting speakers.

  Exam Board: OCR

• Chemistry
  Chemistry

  Chemistry is called the 'central science' because it connects the sciences together, and is essential for a variety of career paths.  There are many jobs involving chemistry, but even if you're looking in another field, the analytical and problem solving skills you gain through the study of chemistry are in high demand.

  At a glance: Chemistry A Level

  Specific Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in Mathematics and either Double 6 in Science or Grade 6 in Chemistry.

  Teacher to contact: Mr Nathan Davis

  Is this the course for you?  Are you interested in: The human body? Practical chemistry? Problem solving? Scientific research? Laboratory work?

  Progression: Medicine, Veterinary Science, Biomedical Science, Biochemistry, Pharmacy, Forensic Science, Genetics and many more courses.  The wide ranging skills acquired during the study of Chemistry are sought after by many different courses and businesses.

  Teaching Methods: Practicals, class lessons, individual research and presentations, guest speakers, off-site visits.

  Exam Board: OCR

• Computer Science
  Computer Science

  Computer Science is a practical subject where students can apply the academic principles learned in the classroom to real-world systems.  It is an intensely creative subject that combines invention and excitement, by looking at the natural world through a digital prism.

  At a glance: Computer Science A Level

  Specific Entry Requirements:  Grade 6 in Computer Science or Mathematics

  Teacher to contact:  Mr Dan Pipe

  Is this the course for you?  Are you interested in:  Computer programming? How the internet works? Solving problems? Whether or not a problem can be solved? Intellectual challenge?

  Progression: This course gives you a fantastic grounding to move into the world of Computer Science.  It will give you the transferable skills you need to access a broad range of careers.

  Teaching Methods: Teaching will be delivered through a structured program of lessons including theory and course work (group work, independent learning, practical sessions and interest research).

  Exam Board: OCR

• Dance - Performing Arts
  Dance - Performing Arts

  The curriculum focuses intensively on the Performing Arts disciplines of dance, drama and musical theatre, dependent on the pathway that you choose.  The course is designed to be adaptable to students' interests, abilities and aspirations.  It consists of three compulsory core units plus a choice of specialist units and is an introduction to the Performing Arts sector with emphasis on core knowledge and fundamental, transferable skills.

  At a glance: Dance Level 3 Extended Certificate

  Specific Entry Requirements: Grade 6 or Merit in Level 2 Dance

  Teacher to contact: Mrs Natasha Tanswell

  Is this the course for you? Are you interested in: Musical Theatre?  The Arts?  Directing?  Occupational Therapy?  Fitness?

  Progression:  Courses in Performing Arts or Media, but past students have gone on to study a wide range of courses from Geography to Accounting.  The skills encouraged on the course, such as initiative, creativity, teamwork, co-operation, self-expression and self-confidence are valuable to all career or higher education choices.

  Teaching Methods: Most lessons will involve practical group work, which will focus on exploring plays, creating theatre, the performing of plays, the analysis of theatre and the critical evaluation of all of these elements.

  Exam Board: Pearson Edexcel BTEC

• Design Technology - Product Design
  Design Technology - Product Design

  A Level Product Design is a creative and thought-provoking qualification giving you the practical skills, theoretical knowledge and confidence to succeed in a number of careers, especially those in the creative industries.

  At a glance: Design Technology: Product Design A Level

  Specific Entry Requirements: Grade 6 Design Technology.   If you have not studied a Design Technology subject at GCSE then you will require a Grade 6 in either GCSE Physics or Mathematics.  GCSE Art and Design will also be considered, but you will be required to present a portfolio of work and attend a departmental interview.

  Teacher to contact: Mrs Julia Mosley

  Is this the course for you?  Are you interested in: Being creative? Practical making skills? Traditional drawing techniques? Working properties of materials? The relationship between design and manufacturing?

  Teaching Methods: Teaching will be delivered through a structured program of lessons including theory and coursework (group work, independent design work, practical sessions and internet research).

  Exam Board: OCR

• Drama & Theatre Studies
  Drama & Theatre Studies

  At a glance: Drama and Theatre Studies A Level

  Specific Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in Drama

  Teacher to contact: Mrs Natasha Tanswell

  Is this the course for you? Are you interested in: Performance? Working in groups in a creative context? Developing strong communications skills? Close textual analysis? Learning about how plays are structured?

  Progression: Courses in Performing Arts or Media, however, students have progressed to courses in Geography to Accounting.  The skills encouraged on the course, such as initiative, creativity, teamwork, co-operation, self-expression and self confidence are valuable to all career of higher education choices.

  Teaching Methods: Most lessons will involve practical group work, which will focus on exploring plays, creative theatre, the performing of plays, the analysis of theatre and the critical evaluation of all of these elements.

  Exam Board: Pearson Level 3

• Economics
  Economics

  Technically, Economics is the study of how the forces of demand and supply allocate scarce resources, for consumers, firms and at national level.  In practice, it includes all sorts of real issues, e.g. a tax on sugar, a minimum price for alcohol, the best way of reducing unemployment, whether income tax should be raised or cut and the impact of emerging markets such as India and China.

  At a glance: Economics A Level

  Specific Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in Mathematics

  Teacher to contact: Amanda McIntosh

  Is this the course for you?  Are you interested in: Is the government right to cut spending? Should we regulate businesses? Worldwide poverty and inequality? Current affairs and politics?

  Progression: Actuarial Analyst, Chartered Accountant, Chartered Certified Accountant, Data Analyst, Economist, Financial Risk Analysis, Investment Analysis, Statistician, Stockbroker.

  Teaching Methods: The students have to learn the basics of the subject through a structured series of lessons.  The core themes will be market failure and government intervention focusing on climate change as well as Monetary Policy.  After this we will branch out looking at some of the key topics that affect the entire world, this will be a journey on how different countries progress.   Will Africa be the new China? Students need to have a lively  interest in current affairs.

  Exam Board: AQA

• English Language
  English Language

  English Language challenges students both to analyse texts and to write their own.  In doing so, they develop their own original writing skills and the ability to analyse both written and spoken language varieties.  Students are also encouraged to collect their own research data for highly rewarding individual projects.

  At a glance: English Language A Level

  Specific Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in English Language.

  Teacher to contact: Mr Mike Cripps

  Is this the course for you?  Are you interested in: Analysing texts? Developing your own editorial and writing skills? Exploring the effective use of language? Learning about grammar and its usage?

  Progression: A subject well regarded for a wide range of university subjects and careers including journalism, law, business, teaching, marketing, speech therapy and research.

  Teaching Methods: Group work, presentation, seminars, discussion and investigations, role play, research methods and fieldwork in a variety of areas including media texts and spoken language transcripts.

  Exam Board: AQA

• English Literature
  English Literature

  The English Literature course is academically challenging, highly rewarding and extremely popular.  Students follow a lively and varied programme of study, with opportunities to read and discuss a wide range of texts, issues and authors.

  At a glance: English Literature A Level

  Specific Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in English Literature

  Teacher to contact: Mr Mike Cripps

  Is this the course for you? Are you interested in: Reading widely? Exploring and sharing ideas? Developing your analytical skills and essay writing? Discussing literary texts?

  Progression: A highly regarded academic subject that allows progression to a wide range of university subjects and careers including law, publishing, media, business, teaching, librarianship and PR/advertising.  Please note that many traditional English/English Literature degree courses will require English Literature at A Level.

  Teaching Methods: Presentations, research, discussion and group work.

  Exam Board: OCR

• Extended Project Qualification
  Extended Project Qualification

  This qualification allows each student to embark on a largely self directed and self motivated project under the guidance of a teacher mentor.  It can be related to their current course of study or future career, but it must take them out of their taught syllabus.  Students must show that it is academically robust.

  At a glance: Extended Project A Level

  Specific Entry Requirements: Submission of detailed proposal and interview.

  Teachers to contact: Mrs Pippa Cooper/Miss Shabnam Ahmed

  Is this the course for you?  Are you interested in: Broadening your knowledge? Developing dependent learning skills? Enriching your curriculum diet?

  Progression: As an additional equivalent, universities view EPQ favourably, often reducing their entry offers.

  Teaching Methods: Taught methodology and research.  1:1 meetings with tutor.

  Exam Board: AQA

• French
  French

  The A Level specification builds on the knowledge, understanding and skills gained at GCSE.  It constitutes an integrated study with a focus on language, culture and society.  It fosters a range of transferable skills including communication, critical thinking, research skills and creativity, which are valuable to the individual and society.  The content is suitable for student who wish to progress to employment or to further study, including a modern languages degree.

  At a glance: French A Level

  Specific Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in French

  Teacher to contact: Mr Fernando Valentine

  Is this the course for you?  Are you interested in: Living, studying or working abroad? Expanding your earning potential and multiplying the places and people that you can work in/with? Standing out from the crowd? Increasing your brain capacity and your memory? Becoming a global citizen?

  Progression: All Modern Foreign Languages are valued highly by universities and employers.  Career paths include International Business, Travel and Tourism, Interpreting and Translating, Law, International Relations and Diplomatic Work.

  Teaching Methods: Discussions, seminars, role-plays, debates, presentations, group activities.

  Exam Board: AQA

• Further Mathematics
  Further Mathematics

  Further Mathematics extends the understanding gained in A Level Mathematics to higher levels.  It is advantageous to students who are considering studying Mathematics at university.  Also, students who wish to study Physics or Engineering at degree level will benefit from meeting the Mathematics they might  need at this stage of their education.

  At a glance: Further Mathematics A Level

  Specific Entry Requirements: Grade 7 in Mathematics

  Teacher to contact: Mr Billy Adamson

  Is this the course for you?  Are you interested in: The language of the universe? How real life situations are modelled with Mathematics? How decisions are made based on statistics? Computer programming? Mathematics for its own sake?

  Progression: Beneficial for students intending to study Mathematics, Computing or Engineering at a higher level.

  Teaching Methods: Interactive teaching, discussion, investigation and experiments. Use of technology and graphic calculators.

  Exam Board: Pearson

• Geography
  Geography

  Geography is the study of the world around us and the human impact upon it.  It considers the physical and human influences that shape and style our world.  The course offers the opportunity to exercise and develop geographical skills, including observation, measurement and geospatial mapping skills, through a range of case studies and fieldwork.

  At a glance: Geography A Level

  Specific Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in Geography or English Language.

  Teacher to contact: Mrs Sarah McManus

  Is this the course for you? Are you interested in: The challenges facing the environment? Fieldwork and research?

  Progression: Universities and all employers value the range of skills acquired from studying Geography.  Careers include town and country planning, chartered surveying, civil engineering, environmental and hazard management, local government, law, commerce, media, civil service, charity organisations at global, national and local level, journalism and teaching.

  Teaching Methods: Interactive teaching including: group work, paired collaborations, individual and independent study discussion, presentations, debates, analysis of resources.

  Exam Board: OCR

• Health and Social Care
  Health and Social Care

  At a glance: Health and Social Care Level 3 Extended Certificate or Level 3 Diploma

  Specific Entry Requirements: Double 4 in Science

  Teacher to contact: Mrs Maria Betts-Davies

  Is this the course for you?  Are you interested in: How and why children develop as they do?  Community services that help the vulnerable? How the young and old can be empowered? How health can be managed individually and nationally?

  Teaching Methods: Personal tutoring accompanied by teacher-led discussion and learning in lesson time.  Peer assessment and practical experience in care settings.  Personal research, group work, work placements, visits and practical sessions.

  Exam Board: OCR Cambridge Technicals 

• Mathematics
  Mathematics

  Mathematics has developed over time as a means of solving problems and also as an academic discipline to be studied for its own sake.  Mathematics can stimulate moments of pleasure and wonder: when you solve a problem for the first time, discover a more elegant solution or notice hidden connections.

  At a glance: Mathematics A Level

  Specific Entry Requirements: Grade 6 in Mathematics

  Teacher to contact: Mr Billy Adamson

  Is this the course for you?  Are you interested in: How real life situations are modelled with Mathematics? How decisions are made based on statistics? Computer programming?  Mathematics for its own sake?

  Progression: Beneficial for students intending to study Mathematics, Computing, Engineering, Geography and Sciences at a higher level.

  Teaching Methods: Interactive teaching, discussion, investigation and experiments. Use of technology and graphic calculators.

  Exam Board: Pearson

• Music - Performing Arts
  Music - Performing Arts

  This course offers students the ability to gain skills and knowledge in the key music industry disciplines of performing, composing and song-writing, music technology and production, the music business and events management. The course can be personalised to students’ strengths and specific areas of music they are passionate about or would like to follow in the future. Students will follow one of three specialist pathways, although they are free to choose a combination of units from any pathway.

  At a glance: Music BTEC

  Specific Entry Requirements: Grade 6 or Merit in Level 2 Music.

  Teacher to contact: Mrs Natasha Tanswell.

  Is this the course for you? Are you interested in: Performing?  Enjoy playing an instrument? Enjoy singing? Appreciate all genres of music?

  Progression: You will become a more skilled and knowledgeable musician, a more astute entrepreneur or a highly capable producer. This qualification allows learners to progress to Higher Education and into the industry. Students could progress to a wider range of specialist roles in performing, composing, live sound, publishing, arts administration, teaching and music therapy. It will also provide transferable knowledge and skills that prepare learners for progression to university

  Teaching Methods: Most lessons will involve practical group work, which will focus on students individual strengths. It will include composing, performance, analysis and critical evaluation of all the elements covered in this course.

  Exam Board: RSL Level 3 Extended Diploma

• Philosophy
  Philosophy

  Philosophy means the love of wisdom. It is the activity of seeking out truth regarding ultimate questions on life. A Level Philosophy provides students with a broad introduction to the study of Philosophy. Through the study of classical and modern texts, students will learn to understand the ways in which philosophers have analysed the core concepts of philosophy, and learn how subtle differences in analyses, structure and language can have wider impacts on philosophical arguments.

  At a glance: Philosophy A level

  Specific Entry Requirement: Grade 6 in Religious Studies or English Language.

  Teacher to contact: Mrs Kirsty Whelpton-Smith

  Is this the course for you? Are you interested in: What you can be certain of? Does anything else exist? What does it mean to be good? Do other people see things the way I do? The nature of a supreme being?

  Progression: The analytical and evaluative skills you will acquire throughout this course will prepare you well for a broad variety of university courses and careers. In particular, Philosophy feeds naturally into courses related to Law, English Literature, History, Politics, Economics, Religious Studies, Theology, Sociology and Arts. It also combines with many other subjects such as the Sciences, Psychology and Mathematics

  Teaching Methods: Debates, discussion, seminar, group work, presentation and textual analysis.

  Exam Board: AQA

• Photography - Art & Design
  Photography - Art & Design

• Physical Education
  Physical Education

  This course covers a diverse range of topics. Not only will you discover how the body works, but you will learn about the health benefits of physical activity and how performance can be enhanced, analysed and monitored. You will study sport psychology, nutrition, sports injury prevention and management, and the sports industry. You will develop an understanding of the role of sport in the past and future. The A Level in Physical Education consists of two externally examined papers and two non-examined assessments.

  At a glance: Physical Education A level

  Specific Entry Requirement: Grade 6 in PE or Double 6 in Science Essential: Candidate must be an experienced, active and regular performer who is training and competing regularly in a recognized sport outside of school.

  Teacher to contact: Mr Stefan Lewis.

  Is this the course for you? Are you interested in: Sport in all its forms? Analysing and improving performance? Performing practically?

  Progression: A number of career pathways including: PE teaching, physiotherapy, sports coaching, sports management, sports science, sports development, fitness training, sports psychology.

  Teaching Methods: A combination of theoretical and offsite practical work. Independent research is essential, as is a good understanding of a wide range of sports science aspects.

  Exam Board: Pearson Edexel

• Physics
  Physics

  Physics asks ‘why’ relentlessly. Physicists don’t accept things at face value; they insist on digging deeper, uncovering the real fundamentals of Science. Physicists relish the questions that can’t easily be answered.

  At a glance: Physics A level

  Specific Entry Requirement: Grade 6 in Mathematics and either Double 6 in Science or Grade 6 in Physics.

  Teacher to contact: Mr Nathan Davis.

  Is this the course for you? Are you interested in: Fundamental questions? Intellectual challenge? Experimental work? Problem solving? Showing universities and employers that you don’t shy away from a challenging A-Level?

  Progression: Analytical, science based careers, Engineering, Medicine, Technical, ICT and numeracy based employment.

  Teaching Methods: This is an exciting course, designed to be relevant to everyday situations. Throughout the Physics course, students develop their autonomous learning skills, their experimental and investigational skills and their research and communication skills. The teaching methods facilitate the students to mature as Physicists.

  Exam Board: AQA

• Politics
  Politics

  Politics is the study of how governments operate and the ways in which people participate in political decision making. The course also allows you to investigate different political ideas, both traditional and modern.

  At a glance: Politics A level

  Specific Entry Requirement: Grade 6 in History or English Language

  Teacher to contact: Mr Neil Watkin

  Is this the course for you? Are you interested in: Law? Civil Service? Local Government? Media Management? Politics?

  Progression: A variety of degree courses and many careers. Skills of analysis and argument and excellent communication skills are highly valued by universities and employers. Careers include law, civil service, commerce, journalism, management and teaching.

  Teaching Methods: Seminars, debates, presentations, group activities. Educational Visits – Houses of Parliament, the Supreme Court, Politics Conference in London. Also, some of our students arrange to shadow an MP or do other related work experience.

  Exam Board: Edexcel

• Psychology
  Psychology

  Psychology is the scientific study of the human mind and behaviour. Studying Psychology at A level involves learning about theories of the human mind and behaviour, then evaluating these using research evidence. It also includes understanding research methods and approaches in Psychology.

  At a glance: Psychology A level

  Specific Entry Requirement: Grade 6 in Psychology or Mathematics or a single science.

  Teacher to contact: Mrs Maria Betts-Davies.

  Is this the course for you? Are you interested in: How the mind works? The relationship between mind and body? Individual differences and mental disorders? The scientific study of the human being?

  Progression: Career options include; psychiatry, clinical psychology, counselling, social work, teaching, nursing, advertising, sales and personnel management. Beneficial for students looking to study Psychology at a higher level.

  Teaching Methods: Psychology A Level is a very relevant and interesting course, allowing students to understand everyday behaviours. A variety of teaching methods are used including: discussions, group work, independent research, presentations and small scale psychological studies.

  Exam Board: AQA

• Sociology
  Sociology

  Sociology focuses on the relationship between individuals and the society in which they live. It encourages an investigation and understanding of cultural identity issues found within modern society.  In addition, it incudes a study of research findings and evaluation of sociological research methods.

  At a glance: Sociology A Level

  Specific Entry Requirement: Grade 6 in English Language

  Teacher to contact: Mrs Maria Betts-Davies

  Is this the course for you? Are you interested in:  People? Social Issues? Current Affairs? Diversity and difference? Understanding Society? Social Change?

  Progression: Possible career paths in personnel, teaching, marketing, social work, local and central government, law, police service and the media.

  Teaching Method: A wide variety of teaching methods are used including seminars , tutorial, small scale research projects, ICT work and visits.

  Exam Board: AQA

• Textiles - Art & Design
  Textiles - Art & Design

  The Art and Textile Design course focuses on creative skills, techniques and processes associated with fine art textiles and fashion, exploring both decorative and constructed textiles. This course extends the creative skills and experiences of GCSE, exploring a wide range of media, materials, artists and processes. A personal approach to skills development and the exploration of textiles is encouraged.

  At a glance: Textiles Design A Level

  Specific Entry requirement: Grade 6 in Art and Design or Textiles. If you have not studied art at GCSE you will be required to present a portfolio of work during departmental interview.

  Teacher to contact: Mrs Gemma Gibson

  Is this the course for you? Are you interested in: Textile media and materials? Fashion design?  Fine art textiles?

  Progression: A recognised qualification for degree courses. Several of our students have gained places on BA Courses without taking a Foundation Course. Careers in Fashion Design, Fashion Retailing and Management, Textile Design, Art Textiles, Interior Design and other creative industries. An ideal qualification for teaching at all levels

  Teaching Methods: Studio practice with two specialist teachers. A series of specialist textile technique based workshops linked to the personal study element of the course. Visits to major contemporary exhibitions and museums.

  Exam Board: Pearson Edexel