the chase sixth form prospectus - The Chase Technology College

THE CHASE SIXTH FORM PROSPECTUSA Specialist College serving its CommunityAim High – Cut to the Chase

Important DatesSIXTH FORM OPEN EVENINGWednesday 26 th January 2011, 7.00 - 9.00pmMessage forStudents andParents fromthe HeadteacherThe Chase - Comprehensively SuccessfulGCSE EXAMINATION RESULTSThursday 25 th August 2011Mr Woods, Mr Williams and Dr Broomhead will be availableto discuss alterations to students’ Sixth Form programmes in the periodafter the results are published.One of the great strengths ofThe Chase is its remarkableSixth Form. I am delightedand proud to help maintainand develop this outstandingcentre of post-16 education.If you want to benefit froma Sixth Form which regularlyfeatures in the top echelonsof the country’s schoolsfor its results and whichat the same time offersoutstanding opportunities forextra-curricular activity and thedevelopment of character, thenthis is the place for you. Whatare the components of ‘TheChase Sixth Form Experience’which make it second to none inthe area?2You should retain this prospectus for future reference if you plan to join the Sixth Form,otherwise please return it to your tutor.

The last thing I want to emphasise about the Sixth Form experience here is fun! If the staff and students between them cannot organisethings so that time spent in the Sixth Form includes a large measure of enjoyment, despite the pressures of the AS and A2 system atAdvanced Level, then we should all give up and go home! For as long as I have anything to do with it, pleasure will continue to characteriseSixth Form life. That is as it should be and I hope many of our current Year 11 students, as well as other young people from outside theschool, will join us in September and help us continue The Chase’s wonderful tradition of Sixth Form excellence, achievement and fun.Whatever your final decision about post-16 education, however, please accept my best wishes as you make perhaps the first major,independent decision of your life.

4From the Director of Sixth Form“One of the greatstrengths of The Chase isits remarkable Sixth Form.I am delighted and proudto help maintain anddevelop this outstandingcentre of post-16education. If you want tobenefit from a Sixth Formwhich regularly featuresin the top echelons ofthe country’s schoolsfor its results and whichat the same time offersoutstanding opportunitiesfor extra-curricularactivity and thedevelopment of character,then this is the placefor you. What are thecomponents of ‘The ChaseSixth Form Experience’which make it second to

6Entry RequirementsThe Chase is a Comprehensive school and this includes the SixthForm. Entry requirements vary according to the courses you wantto follow. There are very good reasons for this. We want you,above all, to succeed and know from experience that it is mosthelpful for students to join courses that most closely match theiraptitudes and qualifications. The fact that we have a very lowdrop-out rate confirms the sense of this approach. Where mitigatingcircumstances result in lower than expected grades, individualcircumstances are always considered.AS/A2Students who cope well with 4 AS levels in the Lower Sixth and then3 or 4 A levels in the Upper Sixth will usually have gained at least 4Bs and probably 2 As at GCSE level. If you hope to study 3 AS levelsand carry these through to completion as A-level, we will expectat least 4 Bs at GCSE level. Most departments advise that Bs arenecessary for entry to an AS course but individual circumstances arealways considered, as appropriate, when GCSE results are publishedin the summer.Level 2 CoursesYou should have achieved at least 4 Ds at GCSE to qualify for entry.Progression from Lower Sixth toUpper SixthAll students are enrolled with theexpectation that they work hardand to the best of their ability. Theyare also expected to stick to theagreement they sign at the timeof application to The Chase SixthForm. Those who do not meet thesebasic requirements will not bepermitted to proceed to the UpperSixth and, if circumstances dictate,will not be permitted to completethe Lower Sixth Year. A pass at AS isrequired in order to progress to A2.Viability of CoursesAll courses in this prospectus areoffered in good faith. If staffing,financial, timetabling or groupsizes preclude the running ofany course(s), The Chase reservesthe right to make any necessarymodifications to the programmeprovided.Choosing Your CoursesChoose subjects that you enjoy and that meet the requirements ofyour Higher Education and career plans. Remember that you canstudy some subjects in the Sixth Form even if you have not done soin Years 10 and 11. Preliminary choices made on your applicationform can be changed later. Guidance is available from Mr Woods,Dr Broomhead and Mr Williams in the first instance.Application ProcedureProspective students are asked to complete and submit anapplication form by February half-term. Applicants will have aninterview with Mr Woods, Dr Broomhead or Mr Williams to helpfinalise which course is best for them.Progress Checks, Reports and Parents’ Consultation EveningsYour academic progress is monitored continuously and acomprehensive system of checks and reports involves students,subject teachers and form tutors. You are expected to takeincreasing responsibility, with guidance, for your own study andprogress. You are encouraged to discuss your work with yourparents and to seek help from teachers whenever your own genuineefforts still leave problems unresolved.

Study GuidelinesSixth Form students are young adults who have chosen to pursuestudy beyond the age of sixteen rather than seek full-time paidemployment but they need to see clearly that study in the SixthForm is not a part-time commitment. As a general guideline, forevery hour you spend in the classroom on your chosen subjects youshould spend a further hour in personal reading, research, essaywriting, and so on. It is certainly true to say that even a very ableperson cannot afford to spend fewer than twelve hours per week inthe Lower Sixth and fifteen in the Upper Sixth. Many students havepart-time jobs and these need to be kept in proportion. Studentswho take on large amounts of part-time work invariably have theirstudies adversely affected by tiredness and lack of preparation soit is very important that you plan your time wisely. All students areexpected to maintain a 90% or better level of attendance.Registration and Tutorial TimeAll students must register for morning sessions. Registers are takenin all lessons. There are excellent reasons for this. In the first place, itis vital that we know who is on campus in the unlikely event of fire.Second, those students who attend school regularly and punctuallyare invariably among the most successful. You must bring a note ifyou wish to be absent or if you have missed school for any reason.Registration is a vital point ofcontact with your tutor who willoften have crucial informationto relay to you. Tutorial timeis also a good opportunity toget to know your peers andto discuss your progress withan interested member of staff.You may leave the premises atlunchtime without permission; atother times the Director or SeniorTutors will give permission toleave the premises if it is felt tobe necessary.AssembliesThere is an assembly for thewhole Sixth Form every otherFriday. This deals with a broadrange of topical, moral, political,cultural, and religious issues andis integral to a stimulating part ofSixth Form education. Assembliesare also a very important focus for the celebration of students’achievements, the promotion of esprit de corps as well as being animportant means by which information is communicated.Higher EducationThroughout the Lower Sixth you will be given guidance on how toapply to university or college. A great deal of effort goes into helpingyou decide on the best options for you. This effort involves theteamwork of Tutors, The Head of Careers, Careers Advisers, HigherEducation Professionals, Senior Tutors and the Director of Sixth Form.Careers Careers guidance helps you make decisions and managetransitions between GCSE and Sixth Form courses, as well asproviding additional advice, regarding Higher Education.The local Connexions office is available to you for individualcareers advice.There is a variety of Careers information in the Sixth FormLibrary in both book and electronic forms.Visits are organised to universities, job fairs and higher educationconventions.7

Speakers give talks on Higher Education entry, Oxbridgeentrance, interview technique, Gap Year, student awards, Year inIndustry, job seeking and finance.You will receive excellent post-results advice and counselling.AccommodationThe Sixth Form is housed in the original Sixth Form Centre whichwas purpose-built in 1980, and the more recent Annexe site. It isseparate from the main school and for the exclusive use of SixthForm students. There are excellent computer facilities on both sites.Organisation of the Sixth FormThere are about 300 students in the Sixth Form following eithertwo-year courses leading to A Level, BTEC National Certificate ora one-year course leading to a BTEC First Diploma. Students areassigned to one of 18 Tutors whose responsibility is to registerattendance, counsel and advise the students in their groups onmatters such as academic progress, Higher Education and careers.The Director of the Sixth Form is Mr Woods. Mr Williams and DrBroomhead, are Senior Sixth Form Tutors, based in the main Centre.Extra-Curricular and Related Activities P.E. sessions for Sixth Form students are provided as part of theElective programme and many students take part in games asmembers of School and House teams.Drama is a flourishing activity – with an annual Sixth Formproduction and a programme of visits.Students with musical interests play in the Big Band, the BluesBand and in the Orchestra, sing in the Choir and take part inmusical productions.Sixth Form students participate in the Duke of Edinburgh’sAward Scheme at Silver and Gold levels.There are also regular overseas visits or exchanges with France,Germany, Israel and in the past visits have taken place to theUSA, Australia, Canada and Zimbabwe. There is an annualLiterary trip to Italy with well known published writers and anArt and Design trip to Italy every other year.Other FacilitiesIn common with any other public areas students are advised thatthe school cannot be responsible for valuables and that studentsmust take care to secure their own possessions. You can also makeuse of the extensive computing facilities for desktop publishing,word-processing, printing, UCAS application, and so on. All studentswill have access to the Internet and their own e-mail facilities.Social AreasMembers of the Student Councilsupervise the social areas. Coffeemaking facilities, microwaves andvending machines are providedand there is a pool table in theAnnex. Music is permitted atbreak and lunchtime.The Sixth Form CouncilThe Council is made up of electedrepresentatives of Lower andUpper Sixth students, the Directorand Senior Tutors. A wide varietyof topics, mainly administrativeand social, are discussed inCouncil meetings. The Counciloffers students an opportunityfor democratic involvement insome aspects of the running ofthe Sixth Form, although theDirector is ultimately responsible

for what happens in the Centre.The Council has a studentTreasurer who is responsiblefor the Centre’s social funds.All students at the Centre areexpected to pay an annualsubscription in September.The Charity CommitteeThe Charity Committee comprisesvolunteer members of the LowerSixth and aims to raise as muchmoney as possible for local andglobal charities. Last year theCharity Committee raised anddistributed over £3,000. Moneyis raised through a variety ofactivities.Dress CodeAs in any place of professionalwork, it is important to dresssmartly and cleanly. Sixth Formstudents are not expected to wearuniform but should be mindful of the fact that, as senior membersof the school community, they are expected to set good standards inall respects. You are asked to be sensible in your approach to dress.The Sixth Form Council has produced its own independent dresscode, which may be summarised in terms of smart casual clothing.Students and staff agree that extremes in clothing that might offendothers are not allowed.DrugsTobacco, alcohol and other drugs are completely banned fromschool. Smoking and drinking by Sixth Form students during theschool day, both on and off the premises, will not be permitted.No smoking is permitted within 500 metres of school.Students’ CarsStudents may not park on school premises, including the Bus Bay.Help With ProblemsThe Sixth Form has a very supportive pastoral system. Sixth Formtutors have small groups of students in their care; they monitorprogress carefully and help to deal with any problems that arise. Inthe Upper Sixth, personal tutors tend to deal with individual studentson an appointments basis. The Director and Year Heads will dealsupportively with any more serious academic or personal problems.Life After Sixth FormThe majority of students go on to Higher Education at a Universityor College. Others begin professional training, prepare for acommission in the Services or seek employment. Students on Level2 courses may progress to Level 3 at The Chase or go to College foradditional or professional training; others obtain employment; somecontinue for a further two years in the Sixth Form. You should lookat our impressive ‘Destinations 2010’ section to gain a more detailedidea of where students typically go to from The Chase.9

VocationalCourses

BTEC Applied Science (Forensic Science)“Rewarding careers are to be found in Science and Engineering at alllevels, and anything which encourages young people on paths in thesedirections is greatly to be encouraged.”(Professer Roger Ainsworth) Edexcel Level 3 BTEC Subsidiary Diploma in ITWho is the course for? 11

Assessment: This is done either internally by a portfolio of evidenceor an external examination set by the awarding body at the end ofeach unit covered. Each unit contains statements of evidence whichthe students have to produce in order to receive a pass, merit ordistinction. Students will be set different final assignments whichcover the entire course content for that unit.BTEC National Certificate in Sport: Sports Development andFitness (EDEXCEL)Career Opportunities: Health and fitness, Coaching, Teaching,Training, Outdoor Education, Professional sport, Sports developmentofficers, Sports science, Armed forces, Sports medicine, SportsPsychology, Recreation management.Points score – Equivalent to 2 Advanced GCEs.This is a two year course which will equip learners with the toolsneeded for higher study or employment in the world of sport andleisure. BTEC gives learners a more practical and vocational approachthan the more traditional academic A level study.Students investigate the breadth of the sport and leisure industryenabling them to make informed choices regarding their futureemployment or further study. The course allows students to accessthe knowledge, understanding and skills for further study such asBTEC Higher nationals or degree courses.This Vocational and practical approach to the study of sport andfitness covers twelve of the following units: BTEC First Diploma in Business StudiesWould you like to study in the Chase Sixth Form on a GCSE Levelcourse which is coursework based?Successful completion of the course will allow you to progressto further study at the Chase or enter the workplace with a highquality work-related qualification. The choice is yours.The BTEC first Diploma in Business Studies has been designedto provide a high quality vocational qualification that blendsthe needs of the classroom with those of the working world.The qualification comprises Core and Optional Units (see below)that relate to the National Occupational Standards in variousoccupations.Features of the course: courses (Diploma/AS Level) or use it for employment or anapprenticeship. and universities.

AS and A2Courses

Art and Design (OCR)“Imagination is more important than knowledge. Knowledge islimited. Imagination encircles the world.”(Albert Einstein) 60% Coursework 14

Biology OCR AS and A2 Biology“Genes, like diamonds, are forever.”(Richard Dawkins)Biology is an interesting course which will help students havea greater understanding of issues in the news such as cloningand genetic modification. It is a varied course which covers awide range of Biology topics from biochemistry to ecology.A good GCSE grade in Biology or Additional applied science isessential for entry onto the course ideally a grade A thoughstrong candidates with a grade B will be considered.The course contains far more hands on practical activity thanthe GCSE course and students complete a series of assessedpractical tasks which count for 20% of the course marks.Students continuing to A2 must attend the 5 day field workcourse at the end of year 12 when ecological theory can be putinto practice.Students planning to study at degree level for biologicalsciences or medical sciences should consider A level Chemistryas well. There are links between the Biology course and PE andGeography. Those students studying Arts or Humanities mightconsider studying Biology to demonstrate their analytical skillsand versatility.No Coursework but assessed practicals completed in class countfor 20% of the marks.

Business Studies (AQA)“Catch a man a fish and you can sell it to him. Teach him how to fishand you ruin a wonderful business opportunity.”(Karl Marx)The A level Business Studies course provides detailed insight into theoperation of setting up and running business organisations.Subject areas include: Marketing, Human Resources, Finance,Operations Management, Objectives and Strategy and externalinfluences on businesses.Much of the course will involve looking at real life examples andexploring issues that affect our everyday lives.Examples of issues addressed:Should managers hire and fire as they please?Why do firms ‘window dress’ accounts and why should investorsbeware?What is the best TV programme for targeting the very wealthywith products?Will plasma TVs ever be affordable with modern productiontechniques?You will also develop all the study skills necessary for highereducation – planning, research, analysis and evaluation.A course in Business will prepare you for many careers as youwill gain an understanding of how any organisation in whichyou work operates.You do not need to have studied this subject at GCSE level.

20% coursework Chemistry A (OCR A)“Where observation is concerned, chance favours only the preparedmind.”(Louis Pasteur) degree in Medicine or Veterinary Science. It is a highly regardedqualification when entering any other area of study. Chemistry, Energetics, Chemistry of the Atmosphere, Modernday Green Issues, Rates, Electrochemistry and its applications,Equilibria and Transition Metal Chemistry. demonstrate your understanding of these intriguing concepts. problem solving skills that will be vital to any future career inarea such as Business, Management, Industry or Research with each other and explains the way that compounds havea phenomenal impact on our own lives as well as the worldaround us.

Computing (AQA)“Computer science is no more about computers than astronomy isabout telescopes.”(E.W. Dijkstra – 1930-2002)Most Sixth Formers ought to be able to follow this course, but inpractice those that will enjoy it most are those who:have an interest and concern for technology;are interested in current affairs;have an interest in software development and networks;want to broaden their AS or A Level studies to cover bothsciences and humanities;want to keep their options open – Computing AS or A level is30% Courseworkan appropriate qualification for a very wide range of highereducation or career opportunities;are not hopelessly incompatible with boxes, arrows, flow chartsand a bit or algebra and logic.Technically, you will become proficient in a professional high levelprogramming language (Visual Basic) and relational databases (MSAccess). The course places particular emphasis on the commercialuse of IT and is quite practical.Many students go on to University successfully taking ComputerScience / Computing / Business Systems Analysis as a degree. A/AS Computing is also useful for a number of courses such asEngineering, Business Management, Maths, Physics, Economics,Design and Accounting.18

60% Coursework Design and Technology Product Design (OCR)“Any intelligent fool can make things bigger and more complex...It takes a touch of genius... and a lot of courage to move in theopposite direction.”(Albert Einstein)Every man made object has been designed by someone. There is aneed to produce new improved products, this is Product Design.This subject will help you to analyse existing products, proposeimprovements and produce prototypes. It will help you tounderstand the present and influence the future.You will have studied Resistant Materials, Graphic products and/orSystems and Control at GCSE.You will also gain a deeper, more specialist knowledge inmaterials from the above areas;Resistant Materials /Graphic Products Systems and Control specialismDevelop skills in using these and more advanced/smartmaterials, while also learning how industry uses and processthese materials;Improve your designing and making skills;Have an opportunity to use materials you may not haveexperienced before, e.g. glass fibre, carbon fibre;Use the latest CAD/CAM software and equipment for 3Dmodelling and production.Electronics can form a major part of this course. The latest softwarewill be available, including programming ‘PICs’.This course is ideal preparation for Higher Education courses inProduct Design, Engineering or other associated areas such asindustrial, medical, automotive, electronic design, architecture,graphic and interior design and manufacturing.19

60% Coursework Economics (AQA)“The entire world economy rests on the consumer; if he ever stopsspending money he doesn’t have on things he doesn’t need - we’redone for.”(Bill Bonner, Editor of The Daily Reckoning)In Economics, you will look at the fundamental forces whichaffect our lives, such as employment, prices, international trade,poverty and how people behave and interact with each other,including consumers, manufacturers and the government.At AS Level, you will study two units covering Markets andMarket Failure and the National Economy. Candidates goingon to take the full Advanced GCE qualification take a furthertwo units including Business Economics and the Distribution ofIncome and the National and International Economy.The relationship between each of the forces ensures livelyand interesting debate. Studying Economics allows you theopportunity to make your own judgements and form your ownopinions.

English Language (AQA)“Just as birds have wings, man has language.”Have you ever wondered:If women really gossip more than men?What babies mean by dadada?Why Va Va Voom is such an effective slogan?(George Henry Lewes)This course will challenge your perceptions about language.You will learn how language is acquired and used in differentsituations, as well as how English has changed over time.You will learn how to analyse spoken language as well as anamazing variety of written texts from Chaucer to cartoons andthe language of chatrooms.40% courseworkYou will also develop your own writing and communicationskills, making English Language a valuable preparation forfurther study and future employment.You will have the opportunity of taking part in trips to be furtherinspired by lectures given by those whose work you study in class.This course is invaluable for students who enjoy exploring theways we interact and communicate.AS: Language Investigation and Production TaskA2: Language Investigation and Intervention TaskWe will be following Specification A. 1701 (AS) and 2701 (A2)22

Film Studies (WJEC)45% Coursework“For more than anything else, cinema consists of the eye for magic- that which perceives and reveals the marvellous in whatsoever itlooks upon.”(Maya Deren)Film Studies aims to encourage critical and analytical thinkingabout cinema’s past, present and future. As a result you willstudy the work of cinema’s acknowledged masters such as AkiraKurosawa, Jean Luc-Godard and John Schlesinger, together withfilms from exciting modern director’s like Lynne Ramsay andWong Kar-Wai. You will investigate how these and other directorspresent and discuss our world and look closely at the techniquesthat they use to achieve their unique visions.At AS Level the focus is on a variety of concerns in British Cinemaand the comparative study of two films from America.In the A2 year, individual films and film movements from aroundthe world will be discussed; for example how did the New Wavedirectors in France in the late 1950s and early 1960s change notonly cinema but culture in general and how did David Lynch andLuis Bunuel successfully translate their surrealistic visions ontothe screen?The coursework elements in both years encourage creative workin screenplay writing and actual filmmaking.Film Studies complements the Humanities courses available at AS/A2level and, like these, will develop your skills in analysis and criticism.There are also clear crossovers with the more creative and artisticsubjects.You will need a grade B or better in either English, EnglishLiterature or Media Studies.24

Coursework – 25% completed in year 13“It is good food and not fine words that keeps me alive.”The Advanced GCE is made up of two units at AS and twofurther units at A2.At AS the two units are Society and Health and ResourceManagement.(Moliere)At A2 the two units are an Investigative study (coursework), andNutrition and Food Production.You will have the opportunity to develop an understanding ofa variety of issues including nutrition, food production, foodsafety and hygiene, social and environmental issues and familyand society issues.Food, Nutrition, and Health (OCR)You will have the opportunity to be creative with food throughpractical activities.You do not have to have studied Catering at GCSE.This A level will allow you to progress further towards coursessuch as Nutrition and dietetics, product development, consumeraffairs, teaching, community health, health and social care.

General Studies (AQA)“Beware of the man of one book.”(Thomas Aquinas)Even studying four subjects at AS level is still restricting soall Year 12 students attend a weekly General Lecture aimed atbroadening their knowledge of the world outside their ownparticular subjects.These lectures are given by expert outside speakers and covera whole range of topical subjects in Ethics, The arts, science,technology, politics and economics.At the end of year 12 students can take a General Studiesexamination at AS level.The specification for this examination is covered to a large100% Examinationextent by the General Lectures so the only other preparationneeded is some practice with past papers.Those who are successful at AS level can go on to take thesubject at A2 level in Year 13 when the General Lecture isreplaced by a weekly class more specifically aimed at theexamination.This ‘extra’ A level is accepted in its own right by some HigherEducation institutions and others will take it into accountwhere an applicant is on the borderline for acceptance.There is no coursework. The examination structure at AS isbased on objective questions on written articles provided. Shortessays need to be written at A2 level.

100% Examination Geography (AQA)“Geography is one of those really comprehensive subjects whoserelevance is all around us. More than ever we need the geographer’sskills and foresight to help us learn about our planet. How we use it.How we abuse it. “(Michael Palin) art have helped boost the popularity of this subject, particularlyat AS level.organised including a week long residential field course in theLake District during the AS year. of new graduates leaving university still unemployed beingamongst the lowest of all subjects. environmental degradation, urban decay and population controlare well covered within this dynamic and up-to-date course. forms an important element of the course with various trips

History (OCR) OCR course content: The Two Unit A2 The Two Unit AS 28

100% Examination Mathematics (EDEXCEL)“Mathematics seems to endow one with something like a newsense. “ (Charles Darwin) 29

Modern Languages (AQA)“To have another language is to possess a second soul.”CharlemagneWhy?A second language is a demonstrable skill and will give you theedge on your competitors. Modern languages can be studied withvirtually any other subject in a combined degree at university, fromfashion to politics, music to maths.How is the A level course structured?We follow the AQA specification. There are 2 modules for AS:Unit 1 involves listening, reading and writing and is worth 35% ofthe total A2 marks. The paper is 2 hours long.100% ExaminationUnit 2 is the speaking test and is worth 15% of the total A2 marks.It lasts 35 minutes but 20 minutes of that is preparation time. Youhave a 15 minute conversation with the examiner on topics youhave studied during the year.There are also 2 modules for A2 which follow a similar formatand which are worth the same amount of marks (35% and15%) as AS.At AS the subject content covers the media, popular culture,lifestyle and relationships.At A2 you will cover the environment, the multiculturalsociety, contemporary social issues and cultural topics.All this in a foreign language!30

60% coursework, 40% examination Music (EDEXCEL)“What gives music its universal appeal is the very fact that it isat the same time the most subtle and intangible and the mostprimitive of all arts. It can make a dog howl and silence a cryingbaby.”AnonymousMusic is a well regarded subject which is recognised by universitiesand employers as developing students’ communication, criticalthinking and creative abilities, bringing together practical,intellectual and social skills in a way that few other subjects do.You will study music from both classical and popular traditions,learning to recognise and analyse a wide range of featuresThere will be opportunities for you to perform both in the class,in school and to the wider community.You will develop your composition skills by studying a range oftechniques and applying these to your own compositions. Thecompositions can vary from writing in the style of J.S. Bach orcreating music for a film score!You will have the opportunity to develop your music technologyskills in recording and sequencingYou may take AS / A2 Music without having taken it for GCSE, aslong as you have Grade 5 in theory and at least one instrument.You will extend your practical skills in solo and ensembleperformance, and learn more about the music that you perform.

20% Coursework Physics (OCR)“The most remarkable discovery ever made by scientists was scienceitself.”(Jacob Bronowski)Physics is the study of how things work, from the astrophysics,which describes stars and galaxies to the particle physics ofquarks and leptons. As a physics student at The Chase you willstudy a tremendous range of ideas, which contribute to ourcurrent understanding of the world we live in.The course you will study has been designed in conjunctionwith industry and higher education. As a result, you will obtaina qualification that is well regarded in a wide range of academicand practical careers.To start the AS course, you will need to have achieved a gradeB or above in Additional Science or in Physics, and to be acompetent mathematician.Coursework is an important element of Advanced Physics. Thecoursework tasks provide not only an opportunity to exploreareas of Physics, which interest you, but also encourage thedevelopment of excellent key skills.

Psychology (AQA)“If you tell a child something you take away from him or her theopportunity to learn from acting upon his or her environment.”(Jean Piaget)Psychologists study human and animal behaviour. Behaviourincludes being aggressive or kind, thinking and seeing, growingup and getting old, being a friend, parent, and so on.Taking a course in Psychology will change your life. Besideslearning about human and animal behaviour, you should alsolearn how to express yourself coherently, how to challengeinformation, how to be confident about yourself, and to be abetter friend, employee and member of society.Recommended GCSE Grades: English B, Science B.Psychologists observe behaviour, formulate an explanation toaccount for the behaviour and then conduct a study to see ifthe theory is correct.Psychology has clinical applications in schools, hospitals,prisons and also complements careers in business and industry.

100% Examination Religious Studies: Philosophy and Ethics (OCR)“Truth? What is Truth? “Pontius PilatePhilosophy and Ethics is a subject that seriously challenges theway you think, and therefore transforms the person you are. Itdares you to face the big questions in life:Is there a God? Is there life after death? Can supernaturalevents really happen? How do you know right from wrong? Isyour conscience always correct? Should there be controls onscience? Is war ever acceptable? Where is personal and socialhappiness to be found?You will read some of the writings of the greatest minds thathave ever influenced mankind. You will not only read the worksof modern philosophers but have the opportunity to meet themat university seminars around the country. Of course, you willhave the chance to challenge their views there and throughoutthe course.You will have the opportunity to discuss the burning moralissues of the day and to judge popular opinions in the light ofvarious theories.Philosophy and Ethics is highly respected as a subject because itdevelops the skill of rational, independent thought. It makes anideal partner to most higher education courses.You do not necessarily need a religious faith for the course orto have studied the subject at GCSE. You need only be braveenough to ask fundamental questions and mature enough tolive with the answers.

Sociology (AQA)“Perhaps the most fruitful distinction with which the sociologicalimagination works is between the personal troubles of milieux andthe public issues of social structure.”(Charles Wright Mills, 1959)Sociology is the systematic study of people in society. Instudying Sociology you will have the opportunity to criticallyexamine many issues relevant to British society such as:How are marriage and the family changing? Is there too muchcrime and violence? What can be done about unemployment? Is theNational Health Service unsatisfactory? Is the education systembest serving the needs of society?Sociology will help you to better understand your rôle insociety, how to challenge information and to express yourselfcoherently. Sociology combines well with other Social Sciencesand Humanities offered at The Chase, as well as opening doorsto higher education.Sociology leads to opportunities in education, criminology,social work, government and politics.GCSE recommended grades: English B.

50% Coursework Textiles (AQA)“Plying... needle and thread, stitch, stitch, stitch.”(Thomas Hood)Contemporary and historical textiles and fashion will inspireyour working in a range of mixed media.You will work visually, developing ideas through observationand experimentation.Gallery visits to view exhibitions and museum collections willenable you to interact directly with a range of textile artefacts.You will consider how textiles and textile artists relate to social,environmental, cultural and ethical contexts.You do not have to have studied Textiles at GCSE.Textiles is an ideal base for career paths such as constructedtextiles, fashion design, textile design, multi-media textiles,fashion technology and theatrical design.

OtherCourses

GCSE Retakes: English and MathematicsYou must sit these subjects again if you have not achieved grade Cor better in both of them.Japanese GCSE (two year course)This is a rare opportunity to have expert tuition, by a native speaker,in one of the lesser taught, but undoubtedly important, commerciallanguages. The commitment required from students is for twohours per week, one of which may be after school, and for somehomework. Depending on progress, students may be entered for aGCSE at the end of the course.Latin GCSE (two year course)GCSE Latin is available as an additional subject in the Sixth Form.It is of particular interest to modern linguists, students of English,historians and lawyers.The course studied in the Lower Sixth is EcceRomani.Spanish (two year course)GCSE Spanish has been on offer since 1996 and is proving verypopular. Anyone who has an interest in learning a new modernforeign language is welcome onto the course but must be preparedto work hard. The course studied is Vaya Nuevo.ItalianThis is offered as an enrichment opportunity after school.General LectureIt is fundamental to the ethos of the Chase Sixth Form Centre thatstudents are encouraged to think for themselves about a wholerange of issues – cultural, philosophical, religious, environmental,moral and political. All students attend a General Lecture – almostevery week in the Lower Sixth Year. Lectures and presentationsare given mainly by outside speakers/agencies. There is normallyan opportunity to follow up lectures, particularly the contentiousones, in tutor time. Recent programmes have included lectures onsuch topics as Local Planning, Amnesty International and GeneticEngineering. There will be the opportunity to gain an A level inGeneral Studies (see under A level subjects).Personal, Social and Health EducationMost of our Sixth Formers will leave home after leaving us, andmove on into new environments and relationships in which they willbe faced with many difficult decisions. A series of talks by invitedspeakers will attempt to help them by providing a foundation forinformed decision-making, and raising awareness of the implicationsand consequences involved. Areas to be explored will include: drugs,alcohol, sexual health, stress, diet, etc.Community ServiceIn addition to the opportunity for students to be involved asprefects or with the Council and Charity Committee, volunteersare sought to help in a variety of ways. For example, students willhave the opportunity of working with younger pupils who havedifficulty with reading, numeracy, or other subjects or by assistingin the Hearing-Impaired Unit. For those who hope to enter TeacherTraining, a placement within a Primary School is possible but wouldneed to be arranged by the student. As a result of our TechnologyCollege status some science, mathematics and ICT students willbe able to be involved with the delivery of these subjects in localPrimary schools.Elective ProgrammeAt present, students can opt for up to three cultural / recreationalelectives – usually one per term – in the Lower Sixth. The programmefor September 2010 is likely to include some of the following:Canoeing and Sailing (BCU & RYA awards), Duke of Edinburgh’sAward, GCSE Italian, GCSE Japanese, GCSE Latin, GCSE Spanish, PE,Rock Climbing, Trampolining, Young Enterprise.Young Enterprise (one year course)As part of the elective system we hope to offer the Young Enterprisescheme. This is an opportunity to set up and run a ‘real’ companywith guidance from advisers from local businesses. Activities occupyapproximately two hours per week from September to April. In agroup of 6-10 you will decide on your product/service, elect a board,raise capital by selling shares, make and market your product andtake a share in the profits! At the end of the year there is a voluntaryexamination leading to a Certificate at Pass, Credit or Distinctionlevel from the Oxford Board, which forms a valuable addition toyour C.V.Other ActivitiesYou may also opt to become involved in:Chase Christian Fellowship, Drama, Duke of Edinburgh Award,Music, Sailing, Outdoor Pursuits, Skiing, Sport, Signing for the Deaf.-

Overall Statistics for 2010 (2009 figures in brackets) 135 450 Overall pass rate % 97.7 Grade % A* / A 27.1 B 26.8 Cum A*/B 53.9 Cum A-C 75.7 212.03 823.78 Pick of the Best: (all obtainingthree or more A grades) Three students have secured Oxbridge places: YEAR 13 PUPILS GCE A* A B C D E U Abs Grades Grades TotalA*-B A-E Entries

Summary of A level results (Year 13): Summer 2010Points per Grade 300 270 240 210 180 150 0 Av Pts ScoreEntries A* A B C D E UArt 8 0 3 2 2 1 0 0Grade % 0 37.5 25 25 12.5 0 0Cum Grade % 0 37.5 62.5 87.5 100 100 100Points Score 0 810 480 420 180 0 0 236.3Biology 18 0 3 4 4 5 1 1Grade % 0 16.7 22.2 22.2 27.8 5.6 5.6Cum Grade % 0 16.7 38.9 61.1 88.9 94.4 100Points Score 0 810 960 840 900 150 0 203.3Business Studies 25 0 3 6 7 2 7 0Grade % 0 12 24 28 8 28 0Cum Grade % 0 12 36 64 72 100 100Points Score 0 810 1440 1470 360 1050 0 205.2Chemistry 20 4 5 5 2 1 1 2Grade % 20 25 25 10 5 5 10Cum Grade % 20 45 70 80 85 90 100Points Score 1200 1350 1200 420 180 150 0 225Computing 7 0 1 1 4 1 0 0Grade % 0 14.3 14.3 57.1 14.3 0 0Cum Grade % 0 14.3 28.6 85.7 100 100 100Points Score 0 270 240 840 180 0 0 218.6D&T: Product Design 8 0 0 3 3 1 1 0Grade % 0 0 37.5 37.5 12.5 12.5 0Cum Grade % 0 0 37.5 75 87.5 100 100Points Score 0 0 720 630 180 150 0 210Drama/Theatre Studies 5 0 0 1 2 2 0 0Grade % 0 0 20 40 40 0 0Cum Grade % 0 0 20 60 100 100 100Points Score 0 0 240 420 360 0 0 204Economics 5 0 0 2 2 1 0 0Grade % 0 0 40 40 20 0 0Cum Grade % 0 0 40 80 100 100 100Points Score 0 0 480 420 180 0 0 216English Language 16 0 0 3 5 5 2 1Grade % 0 0 18.8 31.3 31.3 12.5 6.3Cum Grade % 0 0 18.8 50 81.3 93.8 100Points Score 0 0 720 1050 900 300 0 185.6English Literature 20 2 5 6 3 3 1 0Grade % 10 25 30 15 15 5 0Cum Grade % 10 35 65 80 95 100 100Points Score 600 1350 1440 630 540 150 0 235.541

42Summary of A level results (Year 13): Summer 2010 (continued)Points per Grade 300 270 240 210 180 150 0 Av Pts ScoreEntries A* A B C D E UFilm Studies 4 0 1 3 0 0 0 0Grade % 0 25 75 0 0 0 0Cum Grade % 0 25 100 100 100 100 100Points Score 0 270 720 0 0 0 0 247.5French 3 1 0 0 1 1 0 0Grade % 33.3 0 0 33.3 33.3 0 0Cum Grade % 33.3 33.3 33.3 66.7 100 100 100Points Score 300 0 0 210 180 0 0 230.0General Studies 44 2 6 11 10 8 5 2Grade % 4.5 13.6 25 22.7 18.2 11.4 4.5Cum Grade % 4.5 18.2 43.2 65.9 84.1 95.5 100Points Score 600 1620 2640 2100 1440 750 0 208Geography 26 2 7 5 10 2 0 0Grade % 7.7 26.9 19.2 38.5 7.7 0 0Cum Grade % 7.7 34.6 53.8 92.3 100 100 100Points Score 600 1890 1200 2100 360 0 0 236.5German 3 0 1 2 0 0 0 0Grade % 0 33.3 66.7 0 0 0 0Cum Grade % 0 33.3 100 100 100 100 100Points Score 0 270 480 0 0 0 0 250Health & Social Care 4 0 0 1 1 2 0 0Grade % 0 0 25 25 50 0 0Cum Grade % 0 0 25 50 100 100 100Points Score 0 0 240 210 360 0 0 202.5History 22 4 5 5 4 4 0 0Grade % 18.2 22.7 22.7 18.2 18.2 0 0Cum Grade % 18.2 40.9 63.6 81.8 100 100 100Points Score 1200 1350 1200 840 720 0 0 241.4Home Economics 9 0 2 2 2 3 0 0Grade % 0 22.2 22.2 22.2 33.3 0 0Cum Grade % 0 22.2 44.4 66.7 100 100 100Points Score 0 540 480 420 540 0 0 220Mathematics 34 7 9 11 3 1 1 2Grade % 20.6 26.5 32.4 8.8 2.9 2.9 5.9Cum Grade % 20.6 47.1 79.4 88.2 91.2 94.1 100Points Score 2100 2430 2640 630 180 150 0 239.1Mathematics Further 12 5 2 3 2 0 0 0Grade % 41.7 16.7 25 16.7 0 0 0Cum Grade % 41.7 58.3 83.3 100 100 100 100Points Score 1500 540 720 420 0 0 0 265Music 5 0 0 2 0 3 0 0Grade % 0 0 40 0 60 0 0Cum Grade % 0 0 40 40 100 100 100

Points Score 0 0 480 0 540 0 0 204Points per Grade 300 270 240 210 180 150 0 Av Pts ScoreEntries A* A B C D E UPhysics 24 3 4 7 7 2 0 1Grade % 12.5 16.7 29.2 29.2 8.3 0 4.2Cum Grade % 12.5 29.2 58.3 87.5 95.8 95.8 100Points Score 900 1080 1680 1470 360 0 0 228.8Politics 7 0 1 2 0 4 0 0Grade % 0 14.3 28.6 0 57.1 0 0Cum Grade % 0 14.3 42.9 42.9 100 100 100Points Score 0 270 480 0 720 0 0 210Psychology 21 3 4 8 2 4 0 0Grade % 14.3 19 38.1 9.5 19 0 0Cum Grade % 14.3 33.3 71.4 81 100 100 100Points Score 900 1080 1920 420 720 0 0 240Religious Studies 18 1 2 7 5 1 2 0Grade % 5.6 11.1 38.9 27.8 5.6 11.1 0Cum Grade % 5.6 16.7 55.6 83.3 88.9 100 100Points Score 300 540 1680 1050 180 300 0 225Science 5 0 0 0 1 2 1 1Grade % 0 0 0 20 40 20 20Cum Grade % 0 0 0 20 60 80 100Points Score 0 0 0 210 360 150 0 144Sociology 11 2 2 4 3 0 0 0Grade % 18.2 18.2 36.4 27.3 0 0 0Cum Grade % 18.2 36.4 72.7 100 100 100 100Points Score 600 540 960 630 0 0 0 248.2Spanish 2 0 0 0 1 0 1 0Grade % 0 0 0 50 0 50 0Cum Grade % 0 0 0 50 50 100 100Points Score 0 0 0 210 0 150 0 180Physical Education 10 1 3 4 1 1 0 0Grade % 10 30 40 10 10 0 0Cum Grade % 10 40 80 90 100 100 100Points Score 300 810 960 210 180 0 0 246BTEC Sport 30 0 10 4 6 6 4 0Grade % 0 33.3 13.3 20 20 13.3 0Cum Grade % 0 33.3 46.7 66.7 86.7 100 100Points Score 0 2700 960 1260 1080 600 0 220Total 426 37 79 112 93 63 27 10Grade % 8.7 18.5 26.3 21.8 14.8 6.3 2.3Cum Grade % 8.7 18.5 44.8 66.7 81.5 87.8 90.1Points Score 11100 21330 26880 19530 11340 4050 0 221.243

44Destinations 2010

!"#$%&'()*%+,%-'(.The Chase, Geraldine Road, Malvern, Worcestershire, WR14 3NZ