Subject choices 2016/2017

Subject choices 2016/2017

delighted that you are considering the Sixth Form at 

Tewkesbury School. This booklet details the subjects that we 

offer and explains how you can apply for a place with us. 

With over 25 courses on offer, most students find that there is almost 

too much choice. That’s where our Sixth Form team can help with 

expert guidance and support. Whether you are already at the school 

or applying from elsewhere, you will be offered a one-to-one 16+ 

interview with a senior member of staff to discuss your plans. 

A Level reforms 

We have already seen some changes to A Levels and 2016 will see 

the introduction of more of the new style A Levels, BTEC courses 

and vocational qualifications. The only subjects that we offer that will 

remain in the ‘old style’ for 2016 will be A Level Mathematics qualifications 

and Media Studies and these will change for the start of the 

academic year in 2017. 

The reforms mean that A Levels are now linear two year courses. This 

means you need to study for the full two years to obtain the qualification. 

Across the board, there will be less coursework and fewer 

practical assessments. Grades will continue to be awarded on an A*-E 

scale. 

A Level exams will take place at the end of Year 13, with no marks 

from AS levels contributing to the overall final grade. We are not planning 

on offering AS Levels as a matter of course. 

All students will be expected to choose four subjects to study and will 

receive advice and guidance on these in the 16+ interview process. 

Dear StudentWe are 

Entry Requirements 

Entry Requirements 5+ A*-C grades 

English OR Maths C+ 

Specific subject requirements 

Course of Study 

Progression 

Two years 

Year 12: four subjects 

Year 13: four or three A2 subjects following 

successful completion of Year 12 

Russell Group universities (BBB or better) 

Other universities 

Apprenticeship 

Employment 

If the number of students opting for a subject is low it may be 

withdrawn from the courses on offer. 

How to apply 

Following the Open Evening in November, all Year 11 students currently 

at Tewkesbury School will all be interviewed and given independent 

advice and guidance about their next steps. For the majority this will 

involve coming back to the Sixth Form – in which case, you will be 

asked about your choices during that interview. 

External students are invited to contact the school and arrange to 

come and visit to have a chat about your requirements. 

Transition to Year 12 

We recognise that the transition from Key Stage 4 to Sixth Form study 

is substantial. Therefore, it is essential that all students that have 

chosen Tewkesbury School as their next path of study attend the 

induction period. Please refer to calendar on the school’s website for 

these dates. 

Other key information regarding joining the Sixth Form will be given on 

a regular basis, including GCSE results day.

Support 

As well as a dedicated Sixth Form team you will also be allocated 

a personal tutor. They will monitor your attendance and punctuality, 

discuss your personal targets with you and help to monitor your 

progress. Above all, they will listen to any concerns and help and 

encourage you. There are parents’ evenings in both Years 12 and 

13 and all students are expected to attend. We also send home 

regular progress reports. Your parents should always feel that 

they can get in touch if there is a problem. 

Enrichment Programme 

In Year 12 all students follow an enrichment course with outside 

speakers, debates and a programme of topics drawn up by you. This 

is an important part of your education, raising all kinds of questions, 

not always covered in your academic subjects. 

Experience More 

We want you to really enjoy your time in the Sixth Form and have 

some great experiences. At the end of Year 12, students that have 

made the greatest contribution to the ethos of the Sixth Form could 

be selected to become a Senior Prefect. As a Senior Prefect you are 

an ambassador for the school and will contribute to the leadership of 

the Sixth Form. From being a Senior Prefect you also have the opportunity 

to be elected to stand as Head Girl or Head Boy. 

There is a wide range of extra-curricular opportunities on offer. Get 

involved, take part as much as you can and make your time with us 

really memorable. There are all sorts of other activities that can take 

you out of the classroom and even out of the country! Every year, 

students go on language exchange visits to France and Spain. We also 

have special links with Voorhees High School in New Jersey, USA. A 

partnership visit is organised every two years - fly the Atlantic and get 

a taste of American life! 

All Year 12 students have the opportunity to enjoy being fit and 

active and to use our great sporting facilities which include a swimming 

pool, gym, sports hall with climbing wall, fitness suite, dance 

studio and a stunning all-weather pitch. Tewkesbury Sixth Formers 

often compete against other Sixth Forms and colleges in many sports 

and have an excellent success rate! 

That’s not all – other opportunities involve music, drama and a thriving 

Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme. If there’s something we don’t offer 

that you want to do, then why not set it up yourself? 

Throughout the year there are numerous events. We do a lot of 

fundraising events for charity and one of the highlights of the calendar 

is our Smart & Silly Day when everyone dresses up for a good 

cause. More formal events include the Sixth Form Prom and a leavers’ 

service in Tewkesbury Abbey for Year 13 students, when your parents 

come along to help you celebrate your amazing achievements. 

Employability Passport 

and Work Experience 

All Sixth Form students are expected to complete challenges as part 

of the Employability Passport (EP). The EP has been designed to 

assist students to gain the ‘soft skills’ that are not necessarily part of 

the academic curriculum. At Tewkesbury School Sixth Form we are 

seeking to develop character, increase community roles and instill a 

sense of purpose in our students. As part of the Employability Passport, 

Year 12 students will also complete a period of work experience. 

16-19 Bursary 

You may be entitled to claim 

from our 16-19 Bursary fund. 

This fund is available to those 

students facing genuine financial 

difficulties. If you are living in 

care; you are a care leaver; you 

are receiving income support or 

Universal Credit; you are disabled 

and receiving both Employment 

Support Allowance and Disability 

Living Allowance or Universal 

Credit instead of ESA; or your 

annual household income is 

below £25,521, you could be 

eligible for either a mandatory or 

discretionary bursary.

Sixth Form 

Entry Criteria 

QUICK GUIDE 

Entry into both Years 

12 and 13 is at the 

discretion of the 

Director of Sixth Form. 

Art & Design – Fine Art 

Biology 

Business (Applied) 

Business Studies 

Chemistry 

Computing 

Dance 

Drama and Theatre Studies 

Economics 

Engineering (BTEC Level 3) 

English Literature 

French 

Further Mathematics 

Geography 

Health & Social Care (BTEC Nationals Level 3) 

History 

Information Communication Technology 

Mathematical Studies 

Mathematics 

Media Studies 

Music 

Physical Education 

Physics 

Psychology 

Science (BTEC Level 3) 

Sociology 

Spanish 

Sport (BTEC Level 3) 

Textiles 

Minimum requirements to study in Year 12 

C in GCSE Art 

B in GCSE Biology or BB in GCSE Core & Additional Science; B in GCSE Maths; C in GCSE English 

5+ A*-C grades; C+ in GCSE English OR Maths 

B in Business Studies if taken; C in GCSE English; C in GCSE Maths 

B in GCSE Chemistry or BB in GCSE Core & Additional Science; B in GCSE Maths; C in GCSE English 

B in GCSE Maths; C in GCSE English; B in GCSE Computing if taken 

B in GCSE Dance if taken; appropriate extra-curricular experience if not; C in GCSE English 

B in GCSE Drama; B in GCSE English 

B in Business Studies if taken; B in GCSE Maths and English 

B in GCSE Maths; BB in GCSE Science or B in GCSE Physics; C grade is desirable in a GCSE DT subject 

B in GCSE English or English Language and Literature 

B in GCSE French; B in GCSE English 

A in GCSE Maths – A* preferred; C in GCSE English 

B in GCSE Geography; B in GCSE English 


B in GCSE History; B in GCSE English 

5+ A*-C grades; C in GCSE English 

C in GCSE Maths 

A in GCSE Maths; C in GCSE English 

C in GCSE English 

C in GCSE Music; C in GCSE English 

B in GCSE; C in GCSE English and C in GCSE Science if you have not studied Sports Studies at GCSE 

B in GCSE Physics or BB in GCSE Core & Additional Science; B in GCSE Maths 

B in GCSE English; B in GCSE Science; B in GCSE Maths 


B in GCSE Sociology or B in a Humanities subject; B in GCSE English 

B in GCSE Spanish; B in GCSE English 

5+ A*-C grades; C+ in GCSE English and Maths 

C in GCSE Textiles

Art & Design 

Fine Art 

Biology 

Business 

(Applied) 

Business 

Studies 

Chemistry 

A Level Art is designed to give you the skills 

needed to progress into a confident creative 

student. With this in mind, the course is 

carefully structured by the teachers to fully 

explore a variety of different techniques, 

materials and approaches. 

It is tailored to suit individual’s strengths, 

thus developing your own creativity. It will 

allow you to enter the field of design in any 

aspect, from Architecture to Textiles. 

You will be expected to work hard within 

the Art department; however, we also want 

the course to be fun and for you to achieve 

your best. 

Well known people who have studied 

Art include Sir James Dyson, Tim Burton, 

Stella McCartney and Damien Hirst. The 

following people have said that Art has had 

an big impact on their life: Brian Eno, Mark 

Zuckerberg, Pierce Brosnan and Derren 

Brown! 

This course will lead to… 

The course will allow you to enter any 

creative degree or fine arts course, 

including Graphics, Product Design, 

Interior Design, Landscaping, Fashion and 

Photography - the list is endless. Due to the 

investigative and independent nature of the 

way you will work, this course also gives 

you the skills to solve problems and think 

creatively. 

‘ 

I really enjoy the printing but you 

get to use a wide variety of techniques 

and materials. That’s what makes it so 

interesting. ’Edie Kelsey 

The world is an increasingly scientific place 

and advances in technology, including 

biotechnology, affect us all. If you would 

like to be able to understand your doctor 

more easily, or be more analytical about 

claims made in adverts or on the news, this 

course will provide you with the answers. 

Biology is one of the most popular A level 

subjects in the country. This subject gives 

you the opportunity to explore the structure 

of living things and how they work. You will 

discover the diversity of living organisms 

and their environment and delve into the 

mysteries of the human body! 

This course is an ideal opportunity for 

students who are intrigued by the world 

around them and provides a stepping 

stone to a wide variety of careers or further 

education courses. 


This is the perfect preparation for anybody 

who wants to study any aspect of biology 

or medicine at university and go on to a 

career in the health industry, teaching, 

zoology, forensics or scientific research. 

‘ 

Biology has allowed me to study the 

world around me and provided me with a 

broader understanding of life. 

’ 

All the major exam boards are currently 

refreshing their Applied Business 

propositions ready for 2016. The courses 

cover the same main areas as the Business 

Studies A Level, but with a more ‘hands-on’ 

approach. A high proportion of the Applied 

Business course is coursework based and 

units studied previously include running 

a business and organising event, with 

the 2015 Paddle Power event raising over 

£3,500 for Help for Heroes. 

Are you up to the challenge of being as 

motivated as your predecessors? Are 

you ready to work as a team? If so, then 

Applied Business is the course for you! 

Once all of the specifications are available, 

we will be ensuring that we choose the 

most exciting and practical options for you 

to study in September 2016. 


This is a great course for anybody who 

wants to be well prepared for the world of 

work. Many students taking this subject 

also go on to study business at university. 

Employers particularly value the practical 

skills learnt on this course. 

‘ 

The highlights of the course for me 

have been running our profitable upcycling 

business ReGenEr8 and raising such a 

fantastic sum for Help for Heroes. 

’ 

Kieran Galpin 

This course will take you through the 

theory behind the most successful 

business ventures. 

Starting off on a small scale, you will find 

out what drives people to set up their own 

enterprise in the first place. By the end of 

the two year course you will know how 

these great ideas turn into multi-million 

pound profit making firms. 

So what makes a business tick? You will 

be considering the best strategies to use 

for finance, marketing, human resources 

and operations. The variety within the 

course will make sure that you are ready 

for anything, whether you plan to go to 

university or head out into industry. 

Recent Year 13 leavers have gone on to 

study various business related courses at 

university such as Accounting and Finance, 

Business Management and Business and 

Marketing. Others are now pursuing 

careers in finance and accounting, to name 

but a few. 


This course is great for anyone who plans 

to go to university, regardless of what they 

decide to study. 

Business Studies students who decide to 

enter the workforce straight from school 

find that the qualification gives them a 

good grounding to enable them to flourish 

in whatever career path they choose. 

‘ 

Relevant to the world of work so the 

subject makes you more employable. 

’ 

Dan Trouse and Kristina Bobs 

Chemistry underpins our everyday 

existence. From the moment you are 

born and throughout your life you are 

surrounded by chemistry. 

Chemists play a vital role in developing 

many of the every-day products we take for 

granted and help to sustain and improve 

our quality of life. 

Many of the challenges facing today’s 

society will be overcome with the help 

of chemical scientists. 


Universities offer a wide range of different 

chemistry degrees. These include studying 

only chemistry, combinations of chemistry 

with other subjects and chemistry with 

industrial experience. 

Studying chemistry can lead to a career 

which is exciting and enjoyable with lots 

of variety and opportunities. Many of the 

jobs chemists do cross the boundaries 

between the sciences but they also work 

with professionals in marketing, law, 

accountancy, ICT, finance, journalism and 

other areas. 

It also is a requirement for medical, 

dentistry and veterinary courses. Chemistry 

is an exciting and challenging subject with 

the potential for significant personal and 

financial reward. 

‘ 

An amazing and fascinating subject. 

It really makes you think about the world 

around you. 

’ 

André Roberts

Computing 

Dance 

Drama & 

Theatre Studies 

Economics 

Engineering 

(BTEC Level 3) 

Computers are widely used in all aspects of 

government, business, industry, education, 

leisure and the home. 

In this increasingly technological age, a 

study of computing, and particularly how 

computers are used in the solution of a 

variety of problems, is not only valuable to 

the students themselves but also essential 

to the future well-being of the country. 

Computing links well with subjects across 

the curriculum. It demands both logical 

discipline and imaginative creativity in 

the selection and design of programs; it 

relies on an understanding of the rules of 

language at a simple level; it encourages 

an awareness of the management and 

organisation of computer systems; it 

extends the students’ horizons beyond 

the school or college environment in the 

appreciation of the effects of computer 

applications on society and individuals. 


This is perfect preparation for anybody 

who wants to study a computer-related 

discipline at university. Some universities 

will give preference to students who have 

specifically studied programming for these 

courses. 

Employers value the problem solving skills 

you will develop. 

‘ 

I love learning how to program –finding 

out about how computers work is very 

satisfying! 

’ 

Jon Haddow 

The course is designed to broaden your 

appreciation, skills and enjoyment of 

Dance. 

There will be many extra-curricular 

opportunities to choreograph dances and 

perform in dance showcases at a variety 

of venues. A keen interest in and love of 

dance is the most important requirement. 

Due to the high practical demands of the 

course, it is vital that you have had some 

dance and performance experience, with 

preferably ballet or contemporary training. 


n University degree courses in Dance 

n Primary or secondary school teaching 

n Teaching in a private dancing schools 

n Professional dance training and a 

stage career 

n Dance critic or lecturer 

n Careers in the Performing Arts 

n Choreography 

n Physiotherapy 

‘ 

I love doing Dance; the lessons are 

challenging and fun. I enjoy being creative, 

developing new skills and the experience of 

performing dances at theatres. 

’ 

Ellie Rhodes 

In this course you will have the opportunity 

to explore exciting new ways to create 

theatre. You will gain an appreciation 

of different styles of theatre and the 

practitioners who created them. 

You will practically explore two very 

different plays, examining the many 

different elements that bring them to life on 

the stage! 

You will become a member of a theatre 

company and perform a scripted play to a 

live audience. You will also develop your 

devising skills and craft your own piece of 

theatre. 

On top of this, Drama gives you valuable lifeskills, 

such as team work, confidence, public 

speaking and communication that will make 

you highly attractive to employers. 

This is an ideal opportunity for somebody 

who is passionate about the Arts, who 

enjoys working practically and enjoys 

expressing themselves. 



who wants to study Drama at university 

or theatre school and go on to a career 

in the Arts. However, studying Drama 

complements many other subjects. It is 

useful for building confidence and improving 

presentation skills in a range of careers, 

making you attractive in many other sectors. 

‘ 

above other academic subjects. 

’ 

Jack Doyle 

Drama gives you a creative release 

What do you think of current economic 

policy? Do you think you could do any 

better? 

Perhaps you have considered these 

questions before, or maybe you have not 

thought about it until now. Either way, 

if you would like a better understanding 

of the world in which you live, then you 

should be choosing Economics. 

The course provides an excellent challenge 

for those who want it – after all, the 

subject has baffled even the most brilliant 

minds at times. 

One of the things that students enjoy most 

about this subject is the fact that there is 

the opportunity to apply your economic 

knowledge to a range of real-world 

contexts such as environmental destruction 

and the housing market. 

The recent economic issues cannot have 

escaped anyone’s notice. Are you the 

person who can solve the problem? 


Economics is a highly respected subject and 

many of our students go on to study it at 

university. 

The challenges provided by the subject 

and the skills that are developed during 

the course make Economics a must for 

anyone who wishes to stretch themselves 

academically. 

‘ 

Economics is an inspiring subject with 

many challenges. ’Pete Maizonnier 

This course is designed to provide an 

understanding of the world of engineering. 

It is a mix between practical engineering, 

designing and knowledge. You will 

complete projects across a range of 

engineering fields 

The hands-on approach to the work will 

enable you to develop your skills in practical 

aspects and with industry standard 

design software. To assist with this we 

work closely with many of the high tech 

engineering companies in the area. 

The course comprises of some compulsory 

modules with a range of optional modules 

covering aspects such as Engineering 

Principles, Engineering Design and 

manufacturing. Through the course you 

will experience a range of manufacturing 

and production equipment, computer 

programs and processes as well and 

learning about measuring and quality 

control processes. 


This course will provide the perfect 

foundation for any engineering profession. 

If you are considering an apprenticeship or 

university course within engineering or any 

allied field this would give you a real insight 

in what to expect.

English 

Literature 

French 

Further 

Mathematics 

Geography 

Health & Social 

Care (BTEC Nationals Level 3) 

“You develop the insight of an artist, the 

analytical precision of a scientist, and the 

persuasiveness of a lawyer.” 

Prof. Maureen Moran, Brunel University 

AS and A2 English are far more about skills 

than facts. As an English student, you’ll 

study literature, language, culture, history, 

and may choose to develop your creative 

writing skills. You’ll be asked to consider 

the opinions of other readers – you may 

even disagree with them! 

There will be theatre trips and study days to 

encourage you to go beyond the classroom. 

This is an interesting and challenging 

course which is highly regarded by all 

universities. It will stretch you both critically 

and creatively; at the same time you’ll 

develop valuable skills for any number of 

career choices. 


This is the perfect preparation for lots of 

courses and careers such as: advertising, 

marketing, PR work, arts administration, 

library and information management, law, 

editing and publishing, journalism and 

other areas of the media. Many English 

students work in finance and some even 

take English at university! 

‘ 

Classes provide a great chance for 

discussion; all your opinions are valued and 

explored. You will develop an analytical 

mind and read great books too! 

’ 

Katie Lloyd 

Modern Foreign Languages are without 

doubt the key to participation within an 

expanding international community. 

Fluency in one or more foreign language 

is a prerequisite for access to jobs within 

the European Union, the Foreign Office, 

with major airlines, in tourism, international 

business, marketing and finance, and is 

highly sought after in fields of engineering, 

computing and science. 

Lessons will be conducted mainly in French 

to ensure maximum exposure to the 

language and grammatical issues will be 

explored in greater depth in order to equip 

students with the means to manipulate the 

language to a high degree of fluency. 

Attendance on an exchange trip will be 

expected. 


As well as degree courses connected to 

French, universities are keen to recruit 

students with a Modern Foreign Language 

A level more generally because of the skills 

it develops. 

Employers also value this qualification very 

highly. 

‘ 

Learning a language is an invaluable 

opportunity. A foreign language will 

help you in your travel, make you more 

employable and allow you to find out 

about new cultures. So what are you 

waiting for? 

’ 

Chloe Mason 

For those students who have a love of 

Mathematics, and enjoy the challenge it 

brings, Further Mathematics could be the 

choice for you. 

You will venture into first year university 

topics, studying advanced algebra alongside 

applied topics in Mechanics and Statistics. 

The teachers are all qualified statisticians 

or engineers and bring a huge amount of 

experience and relevance to studies. 

This is a ‘double’ option and you will study 

for AS levels in Year 12 in Mathematics and 

Further Mathematics. Further study in Year 

13 will culminate in A levels in Mathematics 

and Further Mathematics. 

This is a demanding subject, and one 

very highly regarded by employers and 

universities. 

Past students have gone on to study a 

variety of subjects, including Economics 

and Engineering, and is highly desirable (or 

sometimes a requirement) for courses at 

some universities, such as Engineering and 

Architecture. 


Skills in Mathematics are used 

in the following careers: 

n Communications n Pure/Applied Science 

n All Engineering disciplines n Genetic 

research n Economics n Games & 

software n Architecture n Sound 

processing n Research 

‘ 

Do Maths. It’s where the money is! 

’ 

Adam Walton 

“Geography will provide you with 

knowledge and transferable skills that will 

reward you personally and advance you 

professionally.” 

Dr Rita Gardner, Director of the RGS. 

Our Geography AS and A2 course will 

not only provide you with an awareness, 

knowledge and understanding of a variety 

of aspects of the world around us but it will 

also inspire and challenge you. 

You will study topics including: 

the formation of different physical 

environments; the causes and impacts of 

various hazards such as mass movements, 

volcanoes, earthquakes; use of resources; 

different cultures; economies and societies; 

global development and citizenship. You 

will develop a wide range of intellectual, 

practical and social skills. There will be 

opportunities for field trips. 


Geography AS/A2 is perfect preparation for 

anybody who wants to study Geography, 

Environmental Science or more specific 

subjects such as Oceanography or Geology 

at university. 

It leads to a wide range of careers options 

from architecture to meteorology. 

Employers particularly value geographical 

skills. 

‘ 

Geography is a great subject to study 

because the processes and landforms 

we learn about can be seen in the real 

world! 

’ 

Lucy Hall 

This is a new qualification from September 

2016 and is being offered for students who 

intend to work in the health, social care or 

education sectors. The qualification focuses 

on developing the knowledge, understanding, 

skills and standards that underpin the sector 

to provide an excellent basis for employment 

or further and higher education. 

The assessment process includes a range of 

methods including examinations, set tasks 

and coursework. Students at Tewkesbury 

School can undertake the qualification 

as a single or a double option. With the 

single option students would achieve the 

BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate 

in Health and Social Care, which is the 

equivalent of one A level and in the double 

option students would achieve the BTEC 

Level 3 National Diploma in Health and 

Social Care equivalent to two A levels. 

Units include Human Lifespan 

Development, Working in Health and Social 

Care, Meeting Individual Care and Support 

Needs, Nutritional Health and Supporting 

Individuals with Special Needs. These units 

help to prepare students for the world 

of work through the application of the 

theoretical aspects within the classroom. 


The qualification complements other A level 

subjects such as Biology, Sociology and 

Psychology and equips students with skills 

needed for higher education or the world 

of work. 

‘ 

It is an ideal qualification for anyone 

wishing to pursue a career in nursing, 

midwifery or a health and social care 

related course. ’Gemma Averiss

History 

ICT 

(OCR Cambridge Technicals Level 3) 

Mathematical 

Studies 

Mathematics 

Media Studies 

“Those who cannot remember the past are 

condemned to repeat it.” 

Our History AS and A Level will both 

challenge and inspire you. In these courses 

you will have the opportunity to study a 

range of historical periods and countries. 

You’ll explore the glamour of the Jazz Age 

and violent underbelly of 1920s America 

whilst also investigating key political 

and social developments in twentieth 

century Britain. Finally, you will study the 

fascinating witchcraze during the 17th and 

18th centuries in Britain and elsewhere. 

History provides you with essential key skills 

for whatever you choose to do in the future. 

Analysis of evidence, independent study 

skills, written and verbal communication 

skills are all developed on the course as 

well as promoting a passion for the past 

and perfectly preparing students for further 

education as well as the workplace. 


History is ideal preparation for anybody 

who wants to study History or Law at 

university or to go on to various careers 

including journalism, the legal profession, 

research, museum and heritage work, 

the police, engineering and many other 

careers. Employers particularly value History 

because of its academic rigour and the 

skills it promotes. 

‘ 

History is fascinating. I’ve learned so 

many skills I can use in everyday life as well 

as amazing facts. So worth it! 

’ 

Niamh Reid 

A qualification in Information Technology 

opens up an incredible world of 

opportunities for work, not only within the 

technology industry, but also in supporting 

roles within other industries. This 

qualification is a practical course providing 

an excellent basis for employment or 

further and higher education, enabling you 

to develop both creative and technical skills 

in software applications including graphics, 

sound, photography and animation. The 

course covers both Adobe and Microsoft 

software. You will also learn how to plan 

and manage projects and work effectively 

with others. The assessment is based on 

coursework. Students don’t need to have 

taken ICT or Computing at GCSE to study 

this course. 


This course can lead to various career paths 

including the games design industry, mobile 

app development or careers in web design 

and animation. 

‘ 

It is interesting to be given an insight 

into the direction of ICT and how it can be 

used in such a wide variety of ways. 

’ 

Level 3 Mathematical Studies (Core Maths) 

is a new qualification designed for students 

who have achieved a grade C or above 

at GCSE. It suits students who want to 

continue studying maths in Sixth Form but 

for whom A level Mathematics is not the 

right course. 

The course will help to develop students’ 

mathematical skills and thinking and 

supports courses such as A level 

Psychology, Sciences and Geography 

as well as technical and vocational 

qualifications. Areas of study will be 

rooted in real-life applications and will 

develop students’ mathematical thinking 

and problem-solving skills to help them 

compete for future employment. 

The teaching time required for the course 

will be significantly less than for A Level 

Mathematics and will be taught over two 

years. It is a linear course and will be wholly 

examined at the end of Year 13. 


This course will lead to:The qualification 

complements A level subjects such as 

Psychology, Biology, Chemistry, Physics and 

Geography. The qualification is recognised 

by UCAS and is equivalent to an AS Level. 

It is an ideal qualification for those who 

want to keep up their valuable maths skills. 

‘ 

Core Maths is the single most important 

initiative in post 16 mathematics in a 

generation. ’Professor Paul Glaister 

Many career or university choices demand 

or benefit from an A-Level Mathematics 

qualification. It teaches you to think in 

abstract terms and relate this to practical 

applications in many fields of study and 

endeavour. Employers value this skill. In the 

future, people are likely to have more than 

one career in more than one discipline, and 

the transferability of high-level thinking 

skills makes Mathematics a good choice: 

it says “I am adaptable”. So many of 

today’s jobs didn’t exist 20 years ago… 

You can’t future-proof careers, but with 

Maths you can “future-adapt” them… 

Memory Augmentation surgeon 

Body part-maker 

Quarantine enforcer 

Weather modification police 

Space tour guide 

Exoskeleton engineer 

Nano-medic 

(Guardian Money/ Jan 2009) 


Careers such as Economics, Architecture, 

Medicine, Engineering, Accountancy, 

Teaching, Psychology, Environmental 

Studies, Computing, Physics, Biochemistry, 

Astronomy, Biology, Chemistry, Geology, 

Geography, Personnel, Forensic Science, 

Genetics, Telecoms, Logistics, Evo Devo - 

anything that needs you to think! 

‘ 

Maths really counts! 

’ 

Media Studies is an exciting opportunity to 

explore the academic and creative world 

of the media, including film, television, 

advertising, magazines and many others. 

This subject offers a unique mix of practical, 

creative and academic skills. 

As well as studying the media, you will 

have opportunities to produce your own 

print advertising campaign, with training on 

photography and desktop publishing. 

This is a fantastic opportunity for students 

with an interest in how the media works 

and a desire to explore their creative side. 



who wants to study media, marketing or 

related courses at university, and/or go 

on to a career in one of the many media 

industries, as well as public relations and 

communications. 

‘ 

Media Studies has given me a brilliant 

understanding of how the media works. I’m 

really excited about going on to study it at 

university. ’Laura King

Music 

Physical 

Education 

Physics 

Psychology 

Science 


A Level Music is designed to give you the 

opportunity to develop into a confident, 

creative musician. 

The course is structured to provide 

experience in three different areas of music: 

Performing, Composing and Listening. 

There is flexibility to allow for individual 

strengths and interests in the creative 

aspects of the course and there is a wealth 

of extra-curricular opportunities on offer. 

It will prepare you for further musical study 

and give you a secure grounding in creative 

musicianship. 

You will be expected to work hard within 

the Music department, but we anticipate 

that you will also enjoy your musical 

studies. 


The course will allow you to enter any 

music degree or performance-based course 

in the tertiary education sector. 

A Level Music could also give you the skills 

in life to solve problems and think creatively 

in any work environment. 

‘ 

Compared to other subjects, Music gives 

me the opportunity to be more creative and 

to break away from factual learning. 

’ 

Mike Hayes 

This highly stimulating, rigorous and 

academic course explores the main 

topics within sport. These include sports 

psychology, sports physiology and sport in 

society. 

The coursework includes both practical 

assessment and self-evaluation and 

improvement units. 

Students can also be assessed as sports 

coaches if this is where their strengths lie. 

This is an ideal course for something for any 

students who have a genuine passion for 

sport and wish to increase their knowledge 

to a much higher level. 



who seeks to study any sport-related 

course at university and it can lead on to 

a career in many different fields, including 

teaching, sports science and physiotherapy. 

‘ 

A level PE is really interesting. It covers 

many things I did not even consider that 

impact on my own performance. 

’ 

Physics is undergoing a renaissance in 

terms of its popular appeal at present. 

That’s entirely appropriate for a subject that 

builds on the experimental curiosity that 

transformed medieval culture into something 

like the way of life we know today. Da Vinci 

studied perspective and ballistics – you 

will study the wave/particle theory of light 

and the dynamics of projectile motion. 

Italian artists might have drawn helicopter 

machines but you will study the changes in 

momentum and the rotational forces that 

actually allow them to work. 

Electricity is central to our lives and you will 

study how increasingly clever circuits work 

and how electrons can be excited from the 

building blocks of matter in the first place. 

We don’t have the space here to expand 

on how you will get to grips with atomsmashing, 

but if you know anything at all 

about the huge ambitions of the Large 

Hadron Collider, then you will, we hope, be 

eager to make some space in your head to 

find out more. 


Physics graduates can do almost anything! 

They regularly get jobs in research, 

engineering, as managers in industry or the 

public sector, and more. 

A-level Physics is required for subjects such 

as Engineering or Physics, and is ‘preferred’ 

by many universities for subjects such as 

Computing. 

‘ 

I love Physics so much, I’m going to 

study it at university. Finding out how the 

universe is put together is awesome. 

’ 

Zoe Harrison 

Why do people do what others tell them 

to? How does personality effect what we 

do? Why do we become stressed and how 

can we treat it? How do we study addictive 

behaviour? How can you measure abnormal 

behaviour? 

Psychology is concerned with all aspects of 

behaviour and with the thoughts, feelings 

and motivations underlying that behaviour. 

Psychologists are interested in what makes 

people tick and how this understanding can 

help solve major problems in society. 

You will study all of these things in an 

interesting and scientific manner. 


As Psychology is the study of human 

behaviour it is useful in many areas such 

as marketing, management, health, sports 

and education. 

If you want to train as a psychologist you 

can choose from a wide variety of careers 

such as clinical psychologist, forensic 

psychologist and educational psychologist 

to name a few. 

‘ 

Psychology is an interesting and 

exciting subject that pulls you in to learn 

about people and their behaviour…join 

psychology! You won’t regret it. 

’ 

Bethan Baird 

The new BTEC National Awards (from 

2016) in Applied Science are designed to 

provide: 

n A broad understanding of how scientific 

principles are applied in the real world. 

n The skills you need to help you succeed 

in any science-related workplace. 

Science and Technology are vital parts of 

modern society and employment. Covering 

topics from Biology, Chemistry and 

Physics, the course provides an excellent 

overview of the full breadth of Science to 

support progression along any pathway. 

The student-led, hands-on approach will 

enable you to develop practical skills, 

alongside communication, problem-solving, 

time-management and organisational skills 

which employers and universities value 

highly. 

Applied Science demands commitment 

and discipline from the start with a 75% 

coursework demand. 


Students of Applied Science have gone on 

to a wide range of careers, including health 

and social care professions, education, 

engineering, medical and environmental 

sciences, sport science and business, at 

university, through apprenticeships and 

directly into work. 

‘ 

The BTEC Applied Science course is fun, 

hands-on and interesting and has given me 

loads of options for a future career 

’ 

Sean Rowan

Sociology 

Spanish 

Sport 


Textiles 

Sociology is the study of how society is 

organised and how we experience life. 

Sociology deals with global questions like 

‘What is culture?’ 

During the course you will study youth 

culture, family life and what makes up our 

identity. 

Dimensions of identity including social 

class, ethnicity, gender and age will be 

discussed and evaluated. 

Sociology is a useful subject for a wide 

range of professional jobs. It is increasingly 

noticeable that barristers, solicitors, 

journalists, teachers, politicians, police 

offices and many business people have a 

background in sociology. 

There is no requirement to have studied this 

subject at GCSE level to be accepted onto 

the course. 


People who study Sociology go on into a 

wide variety of jobs including social work, 

probation, or other public sector work. 

You will learn how to find information, 

extract what is important from it and turn 

it into an argument – this is a highly valued 

skill. 

‘ 

I love finding out about things like 

crime – you get a genuine insight into how 

society works. 

’ 

Studying Spanish takes your competency 

to a new social level. It enables you to 

understand and discuss a range of current 

affairs such as youth culture, health, 

relationships, social injustice, environmental 

changes and the media. Spanish is the 

mother tongue in 21 countries and the 

number of speakers makes learning 

Spanish a great choice. Many colleges 

and universities offer opportunities to 

study abroad, even if you are not studying 

languages. Having A Level Spanish could 

give you the chance to complete part of 

your degree course in Spain or Central or 

South America. 

Lessons will be conducted mainly in 

Spanish to ensure maximum exposure to 

the language and grammatical issues will 

be explored in greater depth, to equip 

students with the means to manipulate the 

language to a high degree of fluency. 

Attendance on an exchange trip will be 

expected. 


Fluency in one or more foreign language 

is a prerequisite for access to jobs within 

the European Union, the Foreign Office, 

with major airlines, in tourism, international 

business, marketing and finance, and is 

highly sought after in fields of engineering, 

computing and science. 

‘ 

I am determined to become fluent 

in another language as I would love 

to work abroad and understand another 

culture better. 

’ 

Shaun Hunt 

This Sport BTEC Level 3 is designed to be a 

practical, work-related course. You learn by 

completing projects and assignments that 

are based on realistic workplace situations, 

activities and demands. 

You must have an interest in all aspects 

of sport, not just the practical side of the 

subject. You will also need to feel confident 

working within small and large groups and 

taking responsibility for leading groups of 

students your own age. 

Students are not assessed on their practical 

ability at any stage during the course. 

However, there are practical sessions and 

the Team Sports Unit asks you to complete 

a portfolio documenting your strengths, 

weaknesses, ability to analyse performance 

and general knowledge of two sports. 

Assessment is part external exam and 

externally moderated coursework. 


This qualification would be suitable 

for anyone wishing to follow higher 

level courses in: Sports Studies, Leisure 

Management, Recreation Management & 

Teacher Training. 

This will also lead to careers in the 

sport industry such as a PE teacher, 

physiotherapist, sports coach, sports 

manager, director of sport or sports 

physiologist. 

‘ 

It has helped me to appreciate and 

understand how my body works and I have 

been able to apply this knowledge to my 

performance in sport and exercise. 

’ 

Curtis Arber 

During this course you will design and make 

a range of original textiles-based products. 

You will learn new creative skills such as 

dressmaking, printing, surface decoration 

techniques and embroidery. 

You will spend time developing your 

sketching and drawing skills and have 

the opportunity to learn how to use new 

equipment and experiment with a range of 

media. 

We will look at the way textiles products 

are designed developed and manufactured. 

You will investigate the work of fashion 

designers and the impact of design 

movements on products and society. 

If you are interested in creativity and 

style, working in an imaginative and selfmotivated 

environment and have an eye 

for detail and originality this is the course 

for you. 


This subject can give you the opportunity 

to study a number of courses at university 

such as Fashion, Fine Art, Textiles, Fashion 

Photography, Marketing, Retail and Buying 

and provides a gateway into a vast number 

of career possibilities. 

‘ 

It is nice to study a subject which allows 

you to be creative and express yourself 

in practical way. I have really enjoyed the 

subject. ’Mellissa Phillips

Other 

Courses 

Child Care 

This standalone qualification is a Level 2 

Certificate in Children and Young People’s 

Workforce. 

This is a one year course. Students spend 

3 or 4 days in a work placement and 

one day in school for the underpinning 

knowledge. The qualification is practically 

based and although there are 3 mandatory 

assignments set by City and Guilds, there 

are no end of course exams. 

This qualification has been designed to 

provide a broad understanding of the 

children and young people’s workforce 

sector and an introduction to the practical 

skills and knowledge required. 

It also enables learners to make an 

assessment of their own aptitude for 

work in this sector and to make informed 

decisions about careers, encouraging them 

to reach a level of knowledge and skills that 

will facilitate progress into further learning 

or potential employment in the sector. 


This qualification meets the needs of 

students who want to work in a wide range 

of children and young people’s settings 

including: 

n Care Worker 

n Childminder 

n Nursery Nurse 

n Youth and Community Worker 

‘ 

love working with the children. 

’ 

Rebecca Buffin 

My work placement is fantastic and I 

Moog Engineering 

Business Academy 

In a modern, high-tech economy, employers 

are looking for more than simply academic 

qualifications – evidence of having wider 

experience will always be attractive. 

Tewkesbury School has an exciting and truly 

unique partnership with a world-class local 

company to offer just that experience. 

Moog Controls Limited is a Tewkesbury-based 

subsidiary of Moog Incorporated, a multinational 

firm with sales of more than $2 billion. 

Moog products are used on applications such 

as jet engines, Formula 1 cars and even the 

roof of Wimbledon’s Centre Court. 

Running alongside your academic options, we 

are offering a package of high-quality workbased 

training. Over a two year process you 

will gain experience of things like: n Planning 

and managing production n Finance and 

purchasing n Assembly 

This would be an ideal opportunity for 

students interested in the worlds of 

Engineering and Business and who want to 

have a competitive advantage in terms of 

applications for university, apprenticeships 

and jobs in the future. It would fit particularly 

well with certain combinations of option 

subjects that would support this progression. 

For example: 

n Mathematics, Physics and Economics 

n BTEC Science and Applied Business 

However, we can be flexible with these 

choices and are happy to offer further advice. 

Places are limited and dependent on an 

interview that will be looking at commitment 

and attitude – this is not for the faint-hearted 

but could be the start of an amazing career! 

‘ 

Finding out how a real company 

works has been a rich and enlightening 

experience. ’Stuart Bailey 

Community 

Sports 

Community Sports Leadership is an 

established enrichment course run by 

the PE Department. It is a one-year 

course designed to develop students’ 

communication, organisational and 

motivational skills. You will be taught how 

to lead safe, enjoyable and purposeful sport 

sessions for others. You do not even have 

to be good at sport, as you will take more 

of a coaching role rather than performer. 

You will have the opportunity to develop 

practical skills which will help you in other 

subjects and your personal life. These 

include key skills such as: 

n Communication n Organisation n 

Planning n Evaluation n Confidence 

n Team work n Use of initiative 

You will get the opportunity to organise 

events for primary children and younger 

Tewkesbury School students. 



who wants to study sport coaching or a 

teaching based course at university and go 

on to a career which involves management 

and leadership. 

Employers particularly value the key skills 

this course develops. 

‘ 

From doing CSL, I have found that it 

has helped me a lot with what I want to do 

when I leave school. This course has given 

me the opportunity to plan and deliver 

lessons with a great source of confidence 

and motivation. 

’ 

Becky Worrell

Tewkesbury School Sixth Form 

Ashchurch Road , Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire GL20 8DF 

Sixth Form: 01684 851807 

Reception: 01684 292152 

Email: sixthform@tewkesburyschool.org 

Website: www.tewkesburyschool.org 

Twitter: @tewkes6thform 

Headteacher: Mr G M Watson bsc PGDip NPQH 

Director of Sixth Form: Miss L Johnson 

Tewkesbury School, a company limited by guarantee. Registered in England and Wales under company number 7840060. 

Tewkesbury School. Expecting and Achieving Success

Subject choices 2016/2017

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