Sixth Form Options Booklet 2019-21

Sixth Form Curriculum and
Programmes of Study
Our Sixth Form curriculum offer, August 2018
Level 3 - advanced study options
The Sixth Form curriculum has been expanded to offer maximum flexibility at level 3, for students intending to progress to higher
education, advanced apprenticeships or employment. A diverse range of subjects is offered at AS and A level, together with a
comprehensive suite of vocational qualifications (including the Level 3 BTEC Certificate, Diploma, Foundation Diploma and
Extended Diploma). The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is also available to supplement the curriculum, as is Core Maths
(equivalent to an AS level) for students who do not wish to study A level maths, but wish to develop their mathematical skills
beyond GCSE. Students who do not achieve a minimum of grade 4 in maths or English are required to undertake resits in the
sixth form. Inevitably, having to incorporate GCSE English or maths into the timetable may impose restrictions on the range of
level 3 options available to a student.
Government reform of advanced level qualifications
For the past three years, advanced level qualifications have been undergoing a process of reform. Old style AS levels have
been phased out, and replaced by stand alone qualifications which are completely separate from A level. A levels are now
fully assessed at the end of the second year of study. Courses are no longer divided into modules, and there are no January
examinations. Since AS and A levels are separate qualifications, AS results do not count towards the final A level grade as in the
previous system. The final suite of reformed qualifications were introduced in September 2017.
The programme of study followed by a student will depend on their career aspirations and GCSE grade profile.
GCSE Profile
5 GCSEs at grade 4 or better (including English and
maths)
or
4 GCSEs at grade 4 or getter and 1 level 2 BTEC at
merit or distinction
and any subject specific requirements
8 GCSEs at grade 4 or better, of which 5 are at
grade 5 or better (including English and maths),
and any subject specific entry requirements.
Sixth Form programme of study
3 subjects at A level or equivalent
The opportunity to undertake an extended project (EPQ).
Enrichment activities.
Work experience.
The option to study 4 subjects in Year 12 (one subject will
be studied to AS only). 3 subjects will be continued to A
level (or equivalent).
The opportunity to undertake an extended project (EPQ).
Enrichment activities.
Work experience.
Level 2
Some students are not yet ready for level 3 study at the end of Key Stage 4. For these students, a one year level 2 programme
of study is available. The level 2 programme comprises a main vocational qualification, resits in GCSE English and maths,
enrichment and work experience. Students must pass the full level 2 programme before progressing to level 3. Study options
available at level 2 include the Level 2 Diploma in Business Administration and the Level 2 Diploma in Information and Creative
Technology. Other options are under consideration.
Please note, courses will only run where students numbers are sufficient to justify staffing levels.