Courses
Thurston Sixth currently offers nearly 30 courses covering a wide range of curriculum areas.
Thurston-Sixth-Courses (ID 1051)
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Art & Design
Art & Design
ARE YOU INTERESTED IN:
Media and materials?
Fine art and print-making?
3D design?
Graphics, illustration and design?
Artists and museums?
MAIN CONTACT: Mrs Gemma Gibson
EXAM BOARD: Pearson Edexcel
ASSESSMENT: Both components are internally assessed and externally moderated at the end of Year 13.
SPECIFIC ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
Grade 5 in Art and Design or Textiles. Grade 5 in English Language.
Please speak with the Art team if you did not take an Art based subject for GCSE.
PROGRESSION: A recognised qualification for degree courses as well as specialist art courses. Several of our students have gained places on BA Courses without taking a Foundation Course. Careers in all design practices such as: Graphic Design; Animation; Interior Design; Fashion/ Industrial Design and Architecture; Computer Games Design and other creative industries.
“A Level Art gives me the opportunity to channel my creativity into themes and mediums I really enjoy - the support is fantastic and the facilities are amazing.” Lani
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Biology
Biology
ARE YOU INTERESTED IN:
The human body?
How science contributes to modern society?
Disease risk factors?
Medical developments?
Our impact on the environment?
MAIN CONTACT: Mr Martin Jones
EXAM BOARD: OCR
ASSESSMENT: 100% external assessment in Year 13 by three written papers. Practical endorsement reported separately.
SPECIFIC ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
Grade 5 in Maths.
Either 6-6 in Combined Science (Higher Tier) or Grade 6 in Biology (Higher Tier).
PROGRESSION: If Biology is taken at 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 highly valued.
"I’ve really enjoyed A Level Biology... especially learning about the inner workings of our bodies. Being able to apply my knowledge throughout practicals, such as dissections, has made me even more interested to learn more.” Izzy
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Business Studies
Business Studies
Please email sixthadmin@thurstoncollege.org for information on Applied Business.
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Chemistry
Chemistry
ARE YOU INTERESTED IN:
Practical chemistry?
Applications of science?
Problem solving?
Scientific research?
Laboratory work?
MAIN CONTACT: Mrs Alice Khan
EXAM BOARD: OCR
ASSESSMENT: 100% external assessment in Year 13 by three written papers. Practical endorsement reported separately.
SPECIFIC ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
Grade 6 in Maths.
Either 6-6 in Combined Science (Higher Tier) or Grade 6 in Chemistry (Higher Tier).
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.
“I enjoy A Level Chemistry as it provides me an opportunity to broaden and deepen my knowledge of the subject, as well as helping me to develop both my independence and teamwork skills through our practicals.” Chloe
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Computer Science
Computer Science
ARE YOU INTERESTED IN:
Computer programming?
How the Internet works?
Solving problems?
Intellectual challenges?
MAIN CONTACT: Mr Dan Pipe
EXAM BOARD: OCR
ASSESSMENT: 80% External Examination
20% Non examined assessment (NEA)
SPECIFIC ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
Grade 5 in Computer Science. Grade 5 in Maths.
Please speak with the Computer Science team if you did not take this subject or equivalent for GCSE.
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.
Computer Science is a really interesting subject that can help you learn more than just coding and computers. it can teach you logic and give you problem solving skills that you can apply to pretty much any other subject.” Zak
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Dance - Performing Arts
Dance - Performing Arts
ARE YOU INTERESTED IN:
Dance?
Musical Theatre?
The Arts?
Directing?
Occupational Therapy?
Fitness?
MAIN CONTACT: Miss Natasha Barnes-Smith
nbarnessmith@thurstoncollege.org
EXAM BOARD: Pearson Edexcel BTEC
ASSESSMENT: A combination of documenting progress over a period of time and live performance in exam settings.
SPECIFIC ENTRY REQUIREMENT:
Grade 5 or a Merit in Level 2 Dance.
PROGRESSION: The course directly leads into 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.
“I am a Dance and Double Dance student and I would highly recommend the subject if you wish to pursue a career in Performing Arts. We get many opportunities such as performing in shows, competitions and participating in workshops.” Ruby
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Design Technology - Product Design
Design Technology - Product Design
ARE YOU INTERESTED IN:
Being creative?
Problem solving?
Practical making skills?
Using CAD software?
Traditional drawing techniques?
Working properties of materials?
The relationship between design and manufacturing?
MAIN CONTACT: Mr David Webdale
EXAM BOARD: OCR
ASSESSMENT: 50% external exams at the end of Year 13.
50% Non examined assessment (NEA)
SPECIFIC ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
Grade 5 in Design Technology. Grade 5 in Maths.
Please speak with the Design Technology team if you did not take Design Technology for GCSE.
PROGRESSION: This course gives you a fantastic grounding to move into the world of design. It provides opportunities to focus on specialising in Product Design, Architecture, Engineering, and related Business & Management careers.
"Product Design has been a challenging but highly rewarding subject that has a great mix of practical and theoretical work, which has allowed me to expand upon my skills from GCSE. I have found it to be a highly enjoyable and productive course, allowing me to explore how to solve problems, utilise speciality tools and work in a more individual style.” Scarlett
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Drama & Theatre Studies
Drama & Theatre Studies
ARE YOU INTERESTED IN:
Performance?
Working in groups in a creative context?
Developing strong communication skills?
Creating original performance work?
Analysing and evaluating theatre making in written work?
MAIN CONTACT: Miss Natasha Barnes-Smith
nbarnessmith@thurstoncollege.org EXAM BOARD: Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE ASSESSMENT: 40% Internal written and practical.
40% External written examination.
20% Practical examination assessment.
SPECIFIC ENTRY REQUIREMENT:
Grade 6 in Drama or a Merit in Level 2 Acting.
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 analysis, evacuation, creativity, collaboration, self-expression and self-confidence are valuable to all career or higher education choices.
"Drama has helped me to explore what makes a performance and new ideas for performances I could make, including what to do in the rehearsals leading up to a show... it has helped me to grow as an actress and increased my confidence levels.” Bethany
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Economics
Economics
ARE YOU INTERESTED IN:
Whether the government right to cut spending?
How and should we regulate businesses?
Worldwide poverty and inequality?
Current affairs and politics?
MAIN CONTACT: Mr Paul Sutton-Reeves (PSU)
psuttonreeves@thurstoncollege.org
EXAM BOARD: Pearson Edexcel
ASSESSMENT: Three external examinations at the end of Year 13.
SPECIFIC ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
Grade 5 in Maths. Grade 5 in English.
PROGRESSION: This subject is very respected by universities, employers and degree apprenticeships. Potential careers include Actuarial Analyst, Stockbroker, Economist, Chartered Accountant, Investment Analyst.
“I chose A Level Economics as I wanted to learn how money works in our country. I have learnt so much more than I intended to and I find it really fun since you refer to real life examples in your writing to deepen your understanding.” Lily
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English Language
English Language
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?
Writing creatively?
Investigating the way language works and how this has changed?
MAIN CONTACT: Miss Molly Roberts
EXAM BOARD: AQA
ASSESSMENT: A combination of external examination (80%) and non-examined assessment (20%).
SPECIFIC ENTRY REQUIREMENT:
Grade 5 in English Language.
PROGRESSION: A subject well regarded for a wide range of university subjects and careers including journalism, law, business, teaching, marketing, and speech therapy and research.
"English Language has really helped to improve my language analysis and critical thinking skills which comes in handy in my day-to-day life, alongside being an interesting subject to study when it comes to learning about how language changed throughout history and the child language acquisition unit.” Emma
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English Literature
English Literature
ARE YOU INTERESTED IN:
Reading widely?
Exploring and sharing ideas?
Developing your analytical skills and essay writing?
Discussing literary texts?
MAIN CONTACT: Mrs Hannah Bell
EXAM BOARD: OCR
ASSESSMENT: A combination of external examination (80%) and non-examined assessment (20%).
SPECIFIC ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
Grade 5 in English Literature. Grade 5 in English Language.
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.
“English Literature is an incredibly rewarding subject; with the wonderful people and the varied course content, it’s a fantastic opportunity to explore literature both historical and modern.” Emily
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Extended Project Qualification
Extended Project Qualification
Please email sixthadmin@thurstoncollege.org for information on the Extended Project Qualification.
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French
French
Please email sixthadmin@thurstoncollege.org for information on French.
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Further Mathematics
Further Mathematics
ARE YOU INTERESTED IN:
Using logic and creativity to solve problems?
How real-life situations are modelled with algebra?
How decisions are made in commerce and industry using algorithms?
MAIN CONTACT: Miss Rebecca Artiss
EXAM BOARD: Pearson Edexcel
ASSESSMENT: AS Level: 2 external exams in Year 12 A Level: 4 external exams in Year 13
SPECIFIC ENTRY REQUIREMENT:
Grade 7 in Maths.
PROGRESSION: This course is especially beneficial for students intending to study Mathematics, Computing, Engineering, Economics or Natural Sciences at a higher level.
“Further Mathematics is a great choice as you get to discover complex numbers and decision mathematics used in normal life. The subject is incredibly interesting and broad, allowing you to learn about a multitude of exciting theories.” Grace
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Geography
Geography
ARE YOU INTERESTED IN:
The challenges facing the environment and the impacts of climate change?
Fieldwork and research?
Issues related to food security, human rights and international migration?
Understanding physical changes to the world that affect people and their property?
MAIN CONTACT: Mrs Carrie Kelly
EXAM BOARD: OCR
ASSESSMENT: 80% examination at the end of Year 13.
20% Non Examined Assessment (coursework).
SPECIFIC ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
Grade 5 in Geography or another Humanities subject. Grade 5 in English Language.
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.
“I studied Geography at GCSE and I've chosen to continue with it at A Level. I'm really enjoying the course so far and I would attribute that to the passion of my teachers. I think it's really interesting to see how different Human Geography and Physical Geography are and it's been amazing to be taught by people who are clearly so passionate about the subject that they teach.” Emily
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Health and Social Care
Health and Social Care
ARE YOU INTERESTED IN:
Developing skills that will enable you to successfully work with others?
How practitioners empower the people they care for?
The impact that physical and psychological conditions can have on an individual?
Applying theoretical knowledge to real-life practical examples?
MAIN CONTACT: Mrs Justine Bath
EXAM BOARD: OCR Cambridge Technicals (2016) ASSESSMENT: Combination of modular exams and Non Examined Assessment (NEA) throughout the course.
SPECIFIC ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
Grade 4 in English Language.
4-4 in Combined Science or Grade 4 in Biology.
PROGRESSION: Many careers and Higher Education Degree courses can be accessed through this course, including all areas of the Health and Social Care sector, sports industry, teaching, welfare, police and the armed forces.
“This course has taught me the importance of empathy, communication, and team work in providing care. I have learnt about different health conditions, the importance of mental health, and how to work effectively with diverse communities. Overall, this experience has motivated me to pursue a career in the Health and Social Care field, where I can make a positive impact on people’s lives.” Shelby
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History
History
ARE YOU INTERESTED IN:
Analysing information?
Discussion and debate?
Research?
Independent reading?
Evaluating evidence?
MAIN CONTACT: Mr Neal Watkin
EXAM BOARD: OCR
ASSESSMENT: 80% external exams at the end of Year 13.
20% Non examined assessment (NEA)
SPECIFIC ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
Grade 5 in History or another Humanities subject. Grade 5 in English Language.
PROGRESSION: Most degree courses and many careers. Skills of analysis and argument and excellent communication skills are highly valued by universities and employers. Careers include law, commerce, media, civil service, journalism, management, museum work and teaching.
"History is a fascinating subject and the range of periods and themes dealt with at Thurston Sixth is hugely exciting. I especially love the level of depth and analysis we are led to in very relevant and exciting historical narratives." Joe
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Mathematics
Mathematics
ARE YOU INTERESTED IN:
Using logic and creativity to solve problems?
How real-life situations are modelled with algebra?
How large data sets are analysed to inform decision making?
The study of mathematics for its own sake?
MAIN CONTACT: Miss Rebecca Artiss
EXAM BOARD: Pearson Edexcel
ASSESSMENT: Three external exams at the end of Year 13.
SPECIFIC ENTRY REQUIREMENT:
Grade 6 in Maths.
PROGRESSION: This course can lead to a variety of higher education and career opportunities including Mathematics, Statistics, Physics, Computing, Engineering, Economics, Accounting, Medicine, Architecture, Veterinary Science and Natural Sciences.
“Maths A Level can be incredibly fun as it challenges your critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The satisfaction of solving complex problems is truly thrilling.” - Grace
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Music - Performing Arts
Music - Performing Arts
ARE YOU INTERESTED IN:
Performing?
Playing an instrument or singing?
Exploring all genres of music?
MAIN CONTACT: Miss Sophie Parry
EXAM BOARD: RSL Level 3 Extended Diploma. ASSESSMENT: 100% coursework and live performance. SPECIFIC ENTRY REQUIREMENT:
Grade 5 in Music or a Merit in Level 2 Music.
PROGRESSION: You will become a more skilled and knowledgeable musician, with a wide range of performance events to draw upon as you embark on your future career. 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.
The Music course offers a varied exploration into: careers, individual practice, band skills, and much more. It has really expanded both my abilities and aims within the industry, whilst remaining a fun and dynamic work environment.” Evan
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Philosophy
Philosophy
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?
MAIN CONTACT: Mrs Sara Fletcher
EXAM BOARD: AQA
ASSESSMENT: Two x 3 hour papers at the end of Year 13.
SPECIFIC ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
Grade 5 in Religious Studies or another Humanities subject. Grade 5 in English Language.
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.
“Philosophy is a wonderfully enigmatic subject, our thought experiments and class discussions are always intellectually stimulating and cover such a broad range of topics... Philosophy is more than what is learned in the classroom, it gives you a different way of looking at the world around you which means you can study these ideas in your everyday lives.” Isaac
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Photography - Art & Design
Photography - Art & Design
ARE YOU INTERESTED IN:
Using a 35mm film camera and digital SLR?
Using a darkroom?
Digital photographic skills, including editing in Photoshop?
Studio lighting?
MAIN CONTACT: Miss Victoria Spofforth
vspofforth@thurstoncollege.org
EXAM BOARD: Pearson Edexcel
ASSESSMENT: Both components are internally assessed and externally moderated at the end of Year 13.
SPECIFIC ENTRY REQUIREMENT:
Grade 5 in Art Design or Textiles. Grade 5 in English Language.
Please speak with the Art team if you did not take an Art based subject for GCSE.
PROGRESSION: A recognised qualification for degree courses as well as specialist art courses. It is also a recognised pathway into all design practices such as Graphic Design, Animation, Interior Design, Fashion/Industrial Design and Architecture, Computer Games Design. An ideal qualification for teaching at all levels.
"I really enjoy Photography, it allows you to express yourself through your own style of imagery. The support you receive is personal and very beneficial for such a creative subject.” Jenny
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Physical Education
Physical Education
ARE YOU INTERESTED IN:
Sport in all its forms?
Analysing and improving performance?
Performing practically?
MAIN CONTACT: Mr Stefan Lewis
EXAM BOARD: Pearson Edexcel
ASSESSMENT: Two externally examined papers and three non- examined assessments (one of which is practical).
SPECIFIC ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
Grade 5 in PE or 5-5 in Combined Science or Level 2 Merit in a vocational sports course.
Applicants must be an experienced, active and regular performer who is training and competing regularly in a recognised sport outside of school.
PROGRESSION: A number of career pathways including: PE teaching, physiotherapy, sports coaching, sports management, sports science, sports development, fitness training, sports psychology.
“Due to the multidimensional nature of the PE specification, it allows you to develop your knowledge of the biological processes involved in movement and exercise, the psychological aspects of competition, and the social and historical perspectives of sport.” Amy
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Physics
Physics
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?
MAIN CONTACT: Mr Richard Miles
EXAM BOARD: AQA
ASSESSMENT: 100% external assessment at the end of Year 13.
Practical endorsement reported separately.
SPECIFIC ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
Grade 6 in Maths.
Either 6-6 in Combined Science (Higher Tier) or Grade 6 in Physics (Higher Tier).
PROGRESSION: Analytical, science based careers, Engineering, Medicine, Technical, ICT and numeracy based employment.
Taking Physics has really allowed me to understand a lot more about the universe and how everything works. It will really benefit me later in life with my career goals.” Harrison
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Politics
Politics
ARE YOU INTERESTED IN:
Law?
Civil Service?
Local Government?
Media Management?
Politics?
MAIN CONTACT: Mr Neal Watkin
EXAM BOARD: Pearson Edexcel
ASSESSMENT: All three units are of equal weighting and will be externally examined at the end of Year 13.
SPECIFIC ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
Grade 5 in History or another Humanities subject. Grade 5 in English Language.
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.
“Politics as a subject is always relevant and insightful. It’s taught intuitively, with a focus on debate and scrutiny.” Lily
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Psychology
Psychology
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?
MAIN CONTACT: Mr Jared Bubb
EXAM BOARD: AQA
ASSESSMENT: This will be examined at the end of Year 13. Students will be assessed on three skills in each of three papers.
SPECIFIC ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
Grade 5 in Psychology or Grade 5 in Maths.
5-5 in Combined Science or Grade 5 in Biology.
PROGRESSION: Career options include; psychiatry, clinical psychology, counselling, social work, teaching, nursing, advertising, sales and personnel management. This qualification is beneficial for students looking to study Psychology at a higher level.
"Psychology is a fascinating subject with fabulous teaching and loads of support. The group discussions and interactive lessons make it a really enjoyable environment to push yourself to the limits in all tasks.” Sophia
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Sociology
Sociology
ARE YOU INTERESTED IN:
People?
Social issues?
Current affairs?
Diversity and difference?
Understanding society?
Social change?
MAIN CONTACT: Mr Jared Bubb
EXAM BOARD: AQA
ASSESSMENT: Externally examined at the end of Year 13.
SPECIFIC ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
Grade 5 in a Humanities subject.
Grade 5 in English Language.
PROGRESSION: Possible career paths in personnel, teaching, marketing, social work, local and central government, law, police service and the media.
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.
“Sociology has been one of my favourite subjects; it is so interesting and I really like to get involved in the conversations we have in class. Class discussions are very important in sociology and they really help me to get a great understanding of the topics we do.” Isabelle
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Spanish
Spanish
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?
MAIN CONTACT: Mr Fernando Valentine
fvalentine@thurstoncollege.org
EXAM BOARD: AQA
ASSESSMENT: All units will be externally examined at the end of Year 13.
SPECIFIC ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
Grade 5 in Spanish.
Grade 5 in English Language.
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.
"A Level Spanish offers a true insight into Spanish customs and history whilst immersing yourself in such a beautiful language. It provides opportunities to develop as a linguist but also to enhance communication skills and provide support and contextual knowledge that could enhance other subjects.” Megan
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Textiles - Art & Design
Textiles - Art & Design
ARE YOU INTERESTED IN:
Textile media and materials?
Fashion design?
Fine art textiles?
MAIN CONTACT: Mrs Gemma Gibson
EXAM BOARD: Pearson Edexcel
ASSESSMENT: Both components are internally assessed and externally moderated at the end of Year 13.
SPECIFIC ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
Grade 5 in Art and Design or Textiles. Grade 5 in English Language.
Please speak with the Art team if you did not take an Art based subject for GCSE.
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.
“Textiles allows me to express myself and my own style through my coursework and exam pieces. with the range of materials and equipment in the department you can adapt an exam title to suit your own area of interest and have complete creative freedom.” Martha