bhhs sixth form collegeBrighton & Hove High School GDST

Your time at BHHS Sixth Form College should be exciting,

enjoyable and a chance for you to really find out who you

are and what you want to achieve. It is an important chapter

in your life story. Whether you decide to pursue a place at

University or vocational studies, it will help prepare you for

your future.

welcome to

bhhs sixth form college

Photo: Amy Dury

1

and the next

chapter of your life

contents

2 fulfilling your academic potential

4 leadership opportunities

6 enrichment

8 advice & guidance for university places

10 even more…

12 the next steps

14 individual subjects [alphabetically]

BHHS has a strong tradition of educating its girls for life; we are committed to providing each girl with an excellent education which is bespoke to you.

We love that we have small classes. Your teachers get to know you incredibly well, resulting in very positive relationships between girls and staff. Often viewed as having a ‘family feel’, our strong community ensures you are motivated, challenged and feel confident to take risks.

You will also find an amazing array of opportunities at BHHS Sixth Form College from leadership to work placements, enrichment, and co-ordinating clubs for younger years. We also guarantee a high level of support to make you aware of, and help provide you with, opportunities to achieve your future goals.

fulfilling youracademic potential

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Photo: Matthew Andrews

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You will be part of a small tutor group designed to offer you support, advice and motivation. Being small also means that we can tailor our pastoral care to your individual needs. The tutor groups meet every morning to discuss key events, issues and to keep in touch with each other. You will also be assigned to a House and the House system is an integral part of life at BHHS. Each Friday all girls meet in House forms so you get to know lots of girls of all ages in the school! There are four Houses. These are: Stanley, Grey, Lyttelton and Gurney

Out tailored support involves:• Flexible teaching styles to suit individual needs• Specialist teaching in small groups to achieve outstanding results• Stand-alone sixth form facilities in a city centre location, close to transport links• Excellent higher education and careers advice. Tutors at our College have expertise in helping students with UCAS• Individual guidance on University application and the UCAS process, as well as vocational careers, interview techniques, how to network, managing a budget and being independent away from home• One to one tutoring sessions to review your academic progress throughout the year• Close communication with you and your parents about your progress; you should always know where you and what you need to do to achieve your goals• Clinics running every lunch and after school, offering support to enhance your learning• Tailor made support systems should you need strategies to help you manage challenges you may face with your work• An exciting enrichment programme to channel your interests outside of the curriculum• The opportunity to run a club of your choice for the younger girls in the school• Specific Oxbridge, Medic and Veterinary programme including entrance test preparation and interview practice• An annual meeting on Higher Education with outside speakers from local universities is held for Year 12, followed by a UCAS fair• The GDST alumnae network; you are an automatic member and can tap in to the GDST ‘old girls’ network across the country. This is an amazing resource to help with work placements and to seek guidance and information

leadership opportunities

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5

It is crucial that you seize all the opportunities available

to you, and BHHS Sixth Form College offers you these in

abundance. The skills you learn with us will help to carry you

through life. The roles on offer will enable you to develop and

improve many skills needed for life after A-Levels including

confidence, communication, team work, problem solving and

presentation skills.

During your time at BHHS Sixth Form College you will have the opportunity to apply for:

• Head Girl and Deputy Head girl – to represent BHHS in school and at public functions

• Positions on the Sixth Form Leadership Team. These include Head of Guild (leads on charities and fund-raising events), Marketing Officer (assisting the Marketing Dept in various campaigns) and GDST School Council Rep (the opportunity to become a representative for the students of BHHS on the Council representing students at Trust Head Office)

All of these positions provide extension and key leadership in specific areas.

Other important Sixth Form roles include:

• Guild Prefects – to raise the profile of charities and to organise fundraising events

• House Captains – to motivate and encourage all BHHS girls to participate in house events. Girls in these positions of responsibility all play a major role in organising the following activities: House drama performances, sports day, school birthday and celebrations as well as many inter-house competitions taking place during the academic year.

enrichment6

Every member of BHHS Sixth Form College is actively encouraged

to organise and assist with societies and events. These provide

you with the skills and knowledge required to take you further

after your A Levels in whichever career you decide is for you.

Examples of clubs running this year include Foreign Film Club,

Arts Club, Rock Bands, Young Enterprise and Duke of Edinburgh.Photo: Matthew Andrews

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Our varied extra-curricular programme aims to nurture your talent and build your confidence, developing your teamwork and leadership skills. We do this through a variety of activities, including House drama and sports events, Young Enterprise, mentoring, local and international trips abroad, to name a few.

Our College students are also encouraged to support a local charity for one hour a week, using one of their ‘free’ study periods. Not only does this help you to meet and mix with a variety of people, but it also helps to develop social skills and to broaden horizons. Voluntary work is highly regarded by Universities and employers alike.

In addition to this there are also regular PSHE and Enrichment sessions. These are compulsory and will address current issues, make you explore your role in society and how you can contribute in a positive way as well as encouraging you to experience things you may never before considered or even heard about!

Examples of current topics explored in both sessions are:University preparation | Sexual health & awareness | Safe driving | Staying safe | Stress management | Mindfulness | Media and public speaking skills | Life Skills – ‘Come dine with me’ (preparing for life away from home) | Politics: voting and the electoral system | An insight in to the world of Fashion | A day in the life of an Oceanographer | Cultural events | Debates - e.g. ‘Religion v Rationality’

There are also off-timetable days and sessions organised throughout the year to further enrich your experience at BHHS.

compulsory pe

Physical education is a compulsory part of the sixth form timetable because we believe in the social, mental, physical and personal benefits the girls can get from taking part. The programme is created with variety in mind in order to allow girls to take part in sport in a recreational and social environment. Extra-curricular clubs are on offer for girls who want to take any of these activities further.

advice & guidance for university places

We are extremely proud that our girls’ career choices are

diverse and ambitious as well as exciting and well thought

through. We are also very aware that starting in one career

might not necessarily mean you stay in the same profession for

the rest of your life! As a result we offer Careers Guidance

to provide you with the right information at the right time,

enabling you to make the correct decision for you.

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Photo: Matthew Andrews

9

Not all our girls decide to go to University; many opt for a

Gap Year or to experience the ‘World of Work’, whilst deciding

what to do next. Whatever choice you make we support you every

step of the way and actively encourage you to do what is right

for you.

careers

In Year 12 you will be asked to reflect on your work experience and to consider what careers you are interested in. To help you make these decisions we offer Year 12 an opportunity to meet professionals from a variety of industries so you can find out more. As this is an evening event it also gives you a taster for networking and we hope that by the end of the evening you feel you could walk into a room and make conversation freely, with people you have never before met. An annual Higher Education event, with speakers from local universities, is held for all Year 12 and their parents to attend in the Spring term. This is followed by a UCAS Fair.

university entrance tests

Experienced BHHS teaching staff will support you through admissions tests such as the UKCAT, BMAT and LNAT. In addition to this, the GDST offers specialist tutoring days as well providing an opportunity to attend an Oxbridge Conference - an immersive two-day experience offering first class support for the selection process at highly competitive universities. This weekend is in addition to the in-house support we offer whereby the Oxbridge candidates meet weekly to explore current affairs. Our careers staff, Sixth Form tutors and subject staff will always be available for help and advice; these people are crucial in Year 13 when you are applying for Higher Education or considering gap year or training scheme. Therefore you will have your own Tutor to support you through the process. Within this process we arrange a session to prepare you for interviews as well as scheduling practise interviews with people from your chosen are of work.

even more…

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11

extended project qualification [EPQ]

Now strongly encouraged by universities, this offers you a flexible way to enrich your curriculum, allowing you to choose an area of personal interest or study outside of your subjects. It encourages independent research and facilitates a move to undergraduate studies. In order for you to fulfil the aims of the project we begin by teaching you the necessary planning and research skills. In total 120 guided learning hours are required.

You are required, with appropriate supervision, to:• Choose an area of interest• Draft a title and aims of the project for formal approval by the school• Plan, research and carry out the project• Deliver a presentation to a specified audience• Provide evidence of all stages of the project development and production for assessment

work placements

The contacts you might make through networking and by using the BHHS and GDST Alumnae network may be very useful when you are arranging a work placement for the Summer of Year 12. This is about broadening your horizons and having the time and opportunity to find out about your chosen field of work. It is your responsibility to organise your placement, with our support. Why not think about a European placement?

trips and social events

Our College offers a real opportunity to meet and grow new friendships very early on. A two-day induction at the end of year 11 is an important, and enjoyable, experience where everyone is encouraged to mix, face and overcome challenges that improve your ability to work as a team. You will go with the Sixth Form College team to get to know us as we get to know you.

Other trips include: Pizza evening | Cultural day trip to London | Residential to Paris where you can enjoy the sights and attractions, as well as do a little bit of Christmas shopping | Annual University Residential, learning about the life of a student

12

the next steps

The transition from Year 11 to Year 12 at BHHS is effortless

and we very much look forward to watching our girls flourish

and embrace greater independence. We invite all girls to meet

with the Head, Mrs Smith, Year 11 Manager and Director of Sixth

Form to discuss their future plans. We want to ensure that what

we offer is right for all.

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gcse entry requirements

We expect girls entering the Sixth Form to achieve a minimum of 7 GCSEs at grades A*-C. Girls must have attained an A*-B grade in their intended A Level subject.

applying to the sixth form

We are really keen to know your intentions; we ask all students to submit a Sixth Form College Transition Form in which a personal statement must be attached. This is an opportunity to tell us about yourself, celebrate your many achievements and also give you something to talk about when you meet the Director of Sixth.

We warmly welcome external applicants and conditional places for the College will be offered as a result of the application form and personal statement and an interview.

We may also request written work relevant to the subjects proposed for study at A Level.

All students will be offered conditional places in the Spring term, subject to GCSE results.

scholarships and bursaries

Girls are encouraged to apply for the following scholarships: Academic, Art, Music, Sport, Dance and The Temple Scholarship (awarded by the Head for exceptional achievement in another area or in the face of adversity).

The GDST offers means-tested bursaries to ensure that we can provide wonderful opportunities for many girls. We are committed to providing financial assistance to bright, talented girls whose families are not in the position to pay the full fees.

art&design

descriptionCreativity is a form of intelligence and differentiates those who will help form the future. Certain qualities have been identified

as vital for progress in the world of work in the 21st century – flexibility, capability, and creativity. Art & Design links all three

with practical purpose, as well as providing a tool for personal growth, and as such is fundamentally different in nature from

many other subjects in the college curriculum. Consider the different methods of learning you have experienced at GCSE

and how they have contributed to your personal development. If you are interested in the visual world and visual culture,

Art & Design offers you the opportunity to apply what you learn and find answers that are right for you.

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Photo: Amy Dury

is it right for you?Art & Design is a huge area, and its applications range from Fashion to Transport design, to Graphics and to Installation art. In the short time available, the course we offer is intended as an introduction to the dynamics of visual creativity.

We seek and encourage: The love of drawing | Curiosity in the visual world around you | Enthusiasm for art, craft and design of the past and the present | Flexibility with ideas and materials | Connectivity and analogous thought | Perseverance and motivation to bring ideas into form

Art & Design can be both personal expression and problem solving, exploration and experimentation, but it is also about meeting deadlines, so it is not a subject which can be de-prioritised – it requires commitment!

Sustained effort is the key to achievement, whatever your current level of ability.

Self-motivation and the desire to think around a theme or problem are at the core of the subject. We expect students to take ownership of their projects, and respond actively to help and advice. As in GCSE, we work around a project system, and the assessment objectives are very similar.

what can I do with it?Art & Design as a career is competitive, but does provide one of the UK’s main export strengths – creative talent. Digital technology and the global market place have elevated the economic importance of design in many areas; British fashion, graphics, 3D design, fine art and animation are regarded as amongst the best in the world. Jonathan Ive, Head of Design at Apple and creator of the ipod, is British. In a recent Dimbleby lecture, James Dyson (Royal College of Art graduate) stated that lower manufacturing costs in developing countries mean that UK-based business needs to focus on creative design and research to create ownership of new ideas and products to secure future prosperity.

Art & Design provides a framework for genuine creativity within the college curriculum, encouraging students not to rely on templates, but to think dynamically and connectively towards practical outcomes.

head of department: Juliet Croydon entry requirements: minimum grade B at GCSE exam board: OCR

15

descriptionBiology is quite simply the Science

of ‘Life’. Therefore, as a living

organism yourself, what could

be more exciting and rewarding

then to study an A Level in

Biology in Sixth Form?

Apart from being a fantastic

subject choice for those who

aspire to a career in medicine,

dentistry, veterinary science,

pharmacy, physiotherapy, marine

biology, zoology and forensic science (to

name a few!) Biology as a scientific specialism,

is never far away from the headlines…

biology

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Photo: Ruby Mason (Photography Student)

From the recent controversy surrounding three-parent babies,

to the restoration of senses using biomechatronics, not to

mention the recent outbreak of the Ebola virus in Western

Africa, Biologists are never far from the action. Studying A

Level Biology will equip you with the cutting-edge scientific

knowledge behind these stories and set you on the path

(potentially) to make some of your own. There is no doubt

that the UK is at the forefront of pioneering and innovative

Biosciences. So are you ready to embark on the journey of a

‘Life’ time?

is it right for you?The A Level Biology course will not only keep you up to date with the latest ground breaking advancements in science and technology, but also help you to develop into an astute and resilient scientist. You will learn how to successfully collect fair, relevant data and evaluate your procedures in depth. You will use the power of deduction and logic, in conjunction with sound subject knowledge, to scrutinise your findings and propose suitable explanations. You will become an expert researcher, with the confidence to assess source reliability and apply your subject understanding to unfamiliar yet related avenues. You will need to be critical and communicate your point of view effectively, as well as take responsibility for your own learning. It is no wonder why those individuals with qualifications in Biology are so well regarded by employers across the professional spectrum.

what can I do with it?So you will not be surprised to know that Biology is one of the most popular A Level programmes in the country, attracting students studying a wide range of other subjects. Many of these students enjoy the Biology A Level so much they inevitably choose a biologically related degree at university. Others go on to careers in law, IT, accounting or even teaching! So, whatever field you eventually work in, you will find Biology an extremely rewarding and stimulating course which will change your ‘Life’ forever.

head of department: Adam Goold entry requirements: minimum grade B at GCSE exam board: OCR

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chemistry18

Photos: Amy Dury

A Level Chemistry delves more deeply into topics you are

already familiar with, such as bonding, and those with

which you may not be, such as entropy. Chemistry requires

an understanding and application of knowledge, making it

completely different to the demands of GCSE. Chemistry is an

experimental science and these lessons will reinforce what you

learn. You will develop learning independence whilst still

enjoying, and benefiting hugely from, the structure and support

we provide.

is it right for you?Firstly, you should enjoy the subject. This is essential as A level has many challenges associated with it.

Secondly, you should possess very good problem solving skills and be willing to develop learning independence.

Thirdly, you need to have proven ability in Chemistry. Grade A/A* at GCSE Triple Award Chemistry or in the Chemistry component of Double Award is strongly advised (Those with a high B grade may be considered)

head of department: Phil Marsh entry requirements: minimum grade B at GCSE exam board: OCR

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classics:

classical civilisation20

Photo: Amy Dury

The A Level Classical Civilisation course offers the

opportunity to explore the significance of Greek and Roman

culture in our contemporary lives. The course enables students

both to gain a broad understanding of the major periods of

classical civilisation and to study selected topics at greater

depth through the reading of Greek and Roman authors in

translation.

is it right for you?Classical Civilisation is not merely a factual study of ancient life and institutions, but is an exploration of the values of Graeco-Roman civilisation and its relationship with later (especially modern) European culture. If you enjoy learning about ancient culture and society without translating the original languages, then Classical Civilisation is the subject for you. You will find the course challenging, enjoyable and stimulating and you will be encouraged to relate what you study to the modern world and your own experience. English, History, Modern Languages, Religious Studies, Drama, Geography and Art all complement Classical Civilisation.

what can I do with it?Students of Classical Civilisation go on to follow a wide variety of degree courses including Archaeology, Ancient History, English, History and Sociology. Career opportunities include jobs in specialist areas such as an archeologist, museum curator or archivist, the heritage industry, journalism, law, media and politics.

head of department: Wendy Fox entry requirements: minimum grade B at GCSE in English or Class Civ exam board: OCR

21

computing

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Photo: Ali Hastilow

The topics in A Level Computing are Computing Fundamentals,

Programming Techniques and Logical Methods and Advanced

Computer Theory. Between these they cover a detailed

understanding of what makes computer systems work, how they

represent the data they hold and important constructs about

software development. The Computing project is a significant

piece of work that requires programming skill, project

management techniques and an ability to be creative and problem

solve.

is it right for you?You will enjoy this course if you:• Find technical developments in the world fascinating• Have a logical brain that can’t help analysing problems • Have ever found yourself doing some sort of programming for your own pleasure!

what can I do with it?A Level Computing is not for the faint hearted. It requires tenacity and commitment in the creation of a large programming piece of coursework as well as the necessary academic learning required to perform well in a qualification of this level. You must be willing to be an independent problem solver, creative solution finder and persistent programmer, not willing to give up when you meet obstacles. If you think this describes you then attempt the challenge!

head of department: Jamie Whiteside entry requirements: minimum grade B at GCSE exam board: Edexcel

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dance

description Dance is a physically demanding, exciting

and challenging art form to study that

will help students to acquire strong

performance and choreographic skills

linked with a critically informed approach

to current dance practice. Dance at this

level not only allows students to develop

their technical performance qualities but

to grow in terms of their creative and

communicative skills.

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Photo: Zula Donoghue (Photography Student)

is it right for you?Students thrive in this subject if they are willing to challenge themselves physically and mentally. An abundance of energy is essential as the course is heavily practical for the majority of the year. Students should have a genuine interest in dance as classes will be given a range of opportunities to work with professional artists and attend live performances by professional contemporary dance companies.

what can I do with it?Many dance students can go on to further their dance education at one of a variety of institutions across the UK, studying courses such as:

Dance Performance | Dance Appreciation | Contextual and Historical Aspects of Dance | Dance Choreography | Dance Notation | Dancer in Action and Dance Education to name but a few!

head of department: Sue Jamesentry requirements: minimum grade B at GCSE exam board: AQA

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design &technology:

product design

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Photo: Amy Dury

The course is designed so that students can take a broad view

of technology and design, and develop their capacity to design

and make products. They are encouraged to appreciate the

complex relations between design, materials, manufacturing and

marketing.

is it right for you?Creative students who enjoy problem solving would find this course of interest. You will enjoy and benefit from this subject if you are interested in the way things work and how they are designed; would like to use a wider range of techniques, including IT, on design projects; are interested in practical work as well as theory; would like to help develop your critical thinking and to see the relationship between designer, manufacturer and user; are willing to carry out independent investigative research and are confident about writing essays.

what can I do with it?Students are encouraged to develop and sustain their own innovation, creativity and design and technology capability, to recognise constraints and to produce high quality products.

It is an excellent springboard for a variety of studies at University including, amongst others, Architecture, Product Design and Engineering.

head of department: Carolyn Guy entry requirements: minimum grade B at GCSE exam board: AQA

27

drama&theatre studies

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Photo: Amy Dury

Drama & Theatre Studies combines practical acting skills with a

theoretical understanding of plays and practitioners. Students

have the opportunity to perform an extract from a play of their

choice and to devise a piece of issue based or political drama

in the style of a practitioner of their choice. The written

examination involves a study of a variety of set texts and

their response to live theatre.

is it right for you?Drama is an exciting subject. It is valuable in its own right but it is also of value to support a whole range of A Level subjects. Drama & Theatre Studies will appeal to students for a whole range of reasons. The skills developed in the study of Drama & Theatre Studies make an enormous contribution to personal development. In today’s world employers are looking for mature, creative people who can communicate effectively, precisely the skills that Drama develops. Many of our students go on to study Drama at a higher level. Some of these have gone to acting schools after university and we are very proud of our actors, directors, theatre agents and theatre in education experts. An understanding of Drama and Theatre will also enhance your appreciation of film, plays and the Arts in general for the rest of your life.

what can I do with it?The Drama course aims to develop personal skills such as confidence, creativity and the ability to communicate effectively. Students are encouraged to stimulate critical thought about the nature of Drama and the development of Theatre. Learning is active, through practical work on texts, improvisation and group work. Frequent visits to the Theatre contribute to the important social side of the course as well as enhancing skills in reviewing plays.

head of department: Caroline Schilt entry requirements: minimum grade B at GCSE exam board: AQA

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economics

description More than ever, it is a fascinating time to study Economics.

Many aspects of everyday life involve economic problems and

studying this subject will give you the tools to understand world

events and the problems our society faces: poverty in the UK

and elsewhere; the impact of economic sanctions imposed on

Russia; the costs and benefits of globalisation; the long-term

impact of the global financial crisis. Even your own decisions

for your educational future are essentially economic and reflect

anticipated costs and benefits.

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Photo: Amy Dury

Economics is an academically rigorous subject in which you will

learn how to apply analytical models to real-world phenomena.

Studying this subject will provide you with transferable

analytical skills as well as making you an informed member of

society.

is it right for you?If you are interested in understanding more about the implications for the UK of the rapid growth of economies such as China; why top footballers earn many multiples more than the prime minister and why the government has issued a warning that some parts of the NHS are close to collapse, then this is likely to be the subject for you. The most important requisite is that you are curious about the world around you.

what can I do with it?Economics is a popular A Level subject and, as a social science, it combines well with both the arts and science subjects. It is very effective studied alongside Geography, History, Maths Government & Politics and Philosophy and many students combine the subject with the sciences to develop breadth to their learning.

This course will help you develop your skills in oral and written communication, as being able to present a balanced argument is key to succeeding in this subject.

a little more...Studying the techniques, theorems and insights of Economics is not only seen as good preparation for a wide range of university courses (such as Business, Law, Geography, History, and Engineering); it is also in great demand by employers. Economics can prepare you for a number of different careers: business or banking; journalism or law; teaching or academia or as an economist for the government or a private firm.

head of department: Lorrayne Lainchbury entry requirements: minimum grade B in Maths and English at GCSE exam board: AQA

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english language

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Photos: Amy Dury

This A Level will immerse you in the most relevant, up-to-date

and engaging texts which will reflect contemporary language

study. This is a ‘real world’ A Level and crucial preparation

for the media bombardment and linguistic manipulation of modern

life.

is it right for you?This is the right course for you if you have an interest in the world around you and like to be challenged. If you enjoyed the Spoken Language Controlled Assessment at GCSE and the way the analysis of language became psychological and evaluative, then this is the right choice for you. Variety is key. You will read a wide variety of different texts from speech transcripts to blogs; from National Trust guidebooks to the lyrics of pop songs. You will be assessed in various ways too; these include: data analysis, evaluation, formulating and developing an interpretation and even your own creative writing. There are also opportunities to specialise. For example you could choose to research language acquisition and development in children or multi-modal communication.

Skills it will develop: Communication | Interpretation | Debate | Evaluation | Reading for inference | Organisation | Persuasion | Team-work | Independent learning | Research

a little more...The English Department at BHHS is a friendly place and we exploit and enjoy every opportunity to write creatively, to meet real living, breathing authors, to enter competitions, to visit the theatre and cinema. Feel free to explore the English A Level Firefly pages and to follow the English Department on Twitter for more teasers for our wonderful courses: @BHHSEng

head of department: Kate Ashdown entry requirements: minimum grade B at GCSE exam board: AQA

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english literature “A thing of beauty is a joy for ever:

Its loveliness increases; it will never

Pass into nothingness; but still will keep

A bower quiet for us, and a sleep

Full of sweet dreams, and health, and quiet breathing.”

John Keats ‘Endymion’

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Photo: Amy Dury

This A Level celebrates the best writing by the best writers.

Current texts include: ‘The Great Gatsby’, ‘The Kite Runner’,

‘The Ancient Mariner’, ‘Doctor Faustus’, ‘The Merchant of

Venice’ and ‘The Bloody Chamber’.

is it right for you?A Level English is the ideal course for you if you love life, language and laughter. It will introduce you to a wide range of challenging texts. It will showcase some of the greatest minds at work, inspiring you philosophically, as well as linguistically. Classes are lively so a healthy attitude to debate is an essential. You will be ready to work independently and wish to develop a productive academic curiosity. There will be eight set texts, including three pre-1900 texts and at least one Shakespeare play. However, the opportunities for devising your own personal reading list are – thankfully – endless! Your writing skills will be honed and developed to an impressive level of powerfully expressed clarity.

Skills it will develop: Communication | Interpretation | Debate | Written expression | Reading for inference | Organisation | Persuasion | Team-work | Independent learning | Research

a little more...The English Department at BHHS is a friendly place and we exploit and enjoy every opportunity to write creatively, to meet real living, breathing authors, to enter competitions, to visit the theatre and cinema. Feel free to explore the English A Level Firefly pages and to follow the English Department on Twitter for more teasers for our wonderful courses: @BHHSEng

head of department: Kate Ashdown entry requirements: minimum grade B at GCSE exam board: AQA

35

design &technology:

foodtechnology

36

Photo: Amy Dury

Food Technology is a branch of food science that deals with the

production processes that make our food. It covers a wide range

of topics from nutrition, the physical and chemical structure

of nutrients and how ingredients work in food processing and

manufacturing, to microbiology and food safety, product design

and the environment.

is it right for you?Food Technology combines many different skills, talents and activities from practical cooking, investigations and experiments to writing evaluations and conclusions and analysing information, including nutritional data. You will regularly be involved in hands-on activities, food tests and research so good personal organisation is vital. You should be keen to cook at home on a regular basis and have a real interest in both making and eating food. The controlled assessment will require you to constantly gather opinions from people outside of the classroom and ask them to test and evaluate the food you have made, so good interpersonal skills are also very useful.

This course requires you to provide a variety of ingredients for your lessons on a regular basis which does incur costs. Good ICT skills are also advantageous to support the presentation of ideas for coursework and to help with the researching and modelling of products. The subject goes well with Biology, Chemistry, PE, Geography and Business Studies/Economics.

what can I do with it?This A Level is excellent preparation for a range of undergraduate courses such as Food Manufacture, Journalism, Consumer Protection, Product Management, Food Photography and so on. Career opportunities are especially broad; from Nutritionist or Teacher to Market Research or Hotel Catering.

head of department: Stephanie Tyson entry requirements: minimum grade B in Food Technology or a Science at GCSE exam board: AQA

37

frenchdescriptionBritain needs workers who can deal

with colleagues in Europe and globally

in a variety of languages. International

mobility within companies and between

countries is a reality. In many companies

a foreign language may be the deciding

factor when two graduate applicants

have similar profiles. Experts estimate we

could double our trade with Europe if we

overcame language barriers. Could this

mean that you ought to consider strongly

a degree course which has a language

element in it? Bear this in mind when

choosing your A Level subjects.

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Photo: Amy Dury

French is spoken in many countries throughout the world besides

France, including Switzerland, Belgium, Canada and many African

countries. With English it is the official language of the EU.

is it right for you?The A Level course aims to develop linguistic competence and introduce students to another culture. You will continue to develop the skills of reading, writing, listening and speaking which you have acquired at GCSE. You will enhance your communication skills and develop the confidence to initiate face to face interactions and respond naturally and spontaneously. You will learn about social issues, politics, current affairs and the history of France. You will engage critically with text, films and other authentic materials, allowing you to appreciate the language in a cultural context.

Are you passionate about France and all things French? Are you independent and proactive in your approach to language learning? This course would suit you if you enjoy setting yourself language goals and targets and working towards them. You should enjoy practising your French and should actively seek opportunities to do so. A true linguist is keen to take risks and to learn from his/her mistakes. You should enjoy building up your grammatical understanding and working towards independence in its application.

what can I do with it?A Sixth Form course in French may not necessarily provide you with a passport to a career in the Foreign Office or in international marketing, but you will have acquired not only practical language skills, but also the skills of communication, analysis and argument which will be highly beneficial in any career you pursue.

It is also integral to, or complements, a huge number of careers including computing, travel and tourism, public administration, law, banking, medicine, journalism, education and social work.

head of department: Michèle Cormack entry requirements: minimum grade B at GCSE exam board: AQA

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geography

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Photo: Amy Dury

Studying Geography keeps you up-to-date. It informs us

about the world in which we live and how it is changing.

This includes examining the forces influencing our natural

environment, an appreciation of current events and world

problems, from natural hazards to the plight of refugees, and

considers decisions being made about the management of global

resources.

is it right for you?Geography encourages the development of a range of transferable skills, including writing accurately and concisely, as well as using ICT and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Tasks such as planning an investigation, researching all available information, listening to arguments and making informed decisions are those which are demanded in the workplace. The opportunities for independent study, involving the analysis and interpretation of data, and the awareness of world events also increase the employment opportunities for geographers. These skills are in great demand and are recognised by universities and colleges, as well as employers, as being of great value.

what can I do with it?Geography combines well with almost all other A Level subjects. Taken with sciences, Geography supports applications for most science based university courses such as Engineering, Psychology, Medicine, Environmental Sciences and Oceanography; taken with subjects like English, History and Economics, Geography supports courses ranging from Law and Business to Politics and Philosophy.

head of department: Kate Howell entry requirements: minimum grade B at GCSE exam board: Edexcel

41

government&politics

42

Photo: Amy Dury

entry requirements: minimum grade B in English, History, Geography or Religious Studies at GCSE head of department: Merril Baldwin exam board: AQA

The starting point of the study of A Level Politics is you.

The common assumption is that the United Kingdom is a

democracy. We will study the extent to which this is true.

Politicians have a huge power over us but how much power do we

have over politicians? These are just some of the key issues we

will investigate.

is it right for you?The defining characteristics of the subject are that it is dynamic and contemporary. You will learn to understand the political system by studying developments as they happen. This sheds further light on the theory studied in class and gives a great sense of the importance of Politics. It is this which helps to make the subject so interesting to the vast majority of students who study it.

Another major aspect is the study of powerful people and organisations. Politicians have a major impact on your life. There are obvious examples of this such as: bankers’ bonuses and corporate tax avoidance | the extension of university top up fees | the reform of the National Health Service | the issues of war and terrorism

a little more...As a contemporary subject, the study of Politics requires students to develop an awareness of Politics via the media. There is also, as with all social science subjects, a requirement to develop writing skills. As the course progresses there is scope for discussion and debate and students will learn how to develop reasoned argument and consider different viewpoints. A great emphasis is placed on the development of writing skills.

what could I read to find out more?Probably the best thing to do is to read the newspaper or watch the news on tv/internet. Pick up on any issues that you find interesting. It may seem confusing at first but will become clearer with time. Politics.co.uk is a great website. The website contains information on the latest events but you could also look at the ‘reference’ section for an insight into some of the topics covered by the A Level course.

43

history

44

Photo: Amy Dury

History offers the committed student a tremendous opportunity

– you can study some of the most exciting, controversial and

important stories of the past and do so in an academically

respectable way. You can have fun, and get a really worthwhile

qualification at the same time. We have always loved teaching A

Level History - let us show you why.

is it right for you?History teaches a broad range of skills which equip you to do just about anything. You will learn to assess material critically and then turn it into a clear, organised and convincing argument – exactly the kind of skills that careers like law, journalism and public relations call for. However, you don’t have to be limited to that – history will demonstrate an understanding of and empathy for the human condition, and any doctor, politician or police officer needs that. It will also demonstrate a good level of linguist competence, the kind of skills that any career worth doing will require. And of course you could always get really lucky and become a history teacher.

head of department: Grant Sherwood entry requirements: minimum grade B at GCSE exam board: AQA

45

classics:

latin

Photo: Amy Dury

46

The A Level course offers the opportunity to build on the core

skills developed during GCSE Latin. Prose and Verse Roman

authors are studied in depth providing an understanding into

the key concepts of the Roman world. Language and translation

skills are consolidated and expanded developing analytical and

evaluative skills.

is it right for you?Latin A Level develops precise, analytical thinking. If you are logical, have an attention to detail and enjoy language then it is a subject for you. The literature element of the course focuses on developing your empathetic and evaluative skills. Latin A level is a challenging but rewarding course which combines well with both Arts and Science courses. Studying Latin A’ Level gives you the key to Romance languages, provides an experience of literature and mythology that resonates through English Literature and gives you an understanding of the language of legal, diplomatic and religious communication.

head of department: Wendy Fox entry requirements: minimum grade B at GCSE exam board: OCR

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mathematics

48 The course consists of the study of Core and Applied

Mathematics. Core Mathematics covers the skills needed by

any self-respecting mathematician – algebra, trigonometry,

calculus, graphs, and more. Applied Mathematics covers

two areas chosen from Statistics, Mechanics, and Decision

Mathematics.

Photo: Amy Dury

Statistics looks beyond the work on averages and diagrams at

GCSE to the analysis of data to make predictions. Mechanics

involves the application of Mathematics to the modelling of

objects that move and the forces acting upon them. Decision

Mathematics applies network theory to real-life problems such

as scheduling.

is it right for you?The study of Mathematics in the Sixth Form offers an opportunity to extend your knowledge of topics from GCSE such as algebra and trigonometry, but also to encounter entirely new branches of Mathematics. You will push the boundaries of your understanding quite literally to infinity, with the study of calculus, infinite sequences, and statistical distributions. To gain the most from this course you should be an enthusiastic problem solver with an inquiring mind and an eye for detail, and you should have a very good grasp of algebra at GCSE. Mathematics combines well with any other subjects and is highly regarded by universities and employers. If you wish to study Mathematics, Physics or Engineering at university then you are strongly advised to take the Further Mathematics course as well as Mathematics.

A Level Mathematics consists of 6 modules. The modules in Core Mathematics (C1-C4) are compulsory; there is some flexibility in the choice of the Applied modules although the whole class studies the same modules.

Lessons may involve the discussion and development of theory, problem solving both individually and collectively, and the use of graphing software such as Autograph. Extra-curricular opportunities include participation in the UKMT individual and team Mathematics Challenges, and in the Mathematical Association local branch activities.

Extension classes are available for any student applying to Oxbridge, Warwick or Imperial for Mathematics-related courses and who therefore requires additional support with preparation for STEP papers, Oxford Mathematics or Physics Aptitude Tests, or entrance tests at interview.

head of department: Joanna Thomas entry requirements: minimum grade B at GCSE exam board: Edexcel

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furthermathematics

50

Photo: Amy Dury

Further Mathematics is an additional A Level subject that is

studied together with Mathematics A Level. It extends the work

found in the Core Mathematics of single Mathematics A Level

into Further Pure Mathematics, covering areas such as complex

numbers, vectors and matrices, as well as offering greater

breadth of Applied Mathematics modules. You are likely to study

Applied modules involving Statistics, Mechanics and Decision

Mathematics.

Students who take both Mathematics and Further Mathematics are taught in a separate class to those studying only single Mathematics. The study of Mathematics and Further Mathematics in Year 12 only, as a means of achieving A Level Mathematics in a year, is not an option.

is it right for you?Further Mathematics is ideal for those students who love the subject of Mathematics! You will be devoting two whole A Level subjects to Mathematics and Further Mathematics so you must be a keen problem solver with excellent algebra skills. It is a high-status course that indicates academic ability to universities and employers.

If you wish to study Mathematics, Physics or Engineering at university then you are strongly advised to take the Further Mathematics course as well as Mathematics.

Lessons may involve the discussion and development of theory, problem solving both individually and collectively, and the use of graphing software such as Autograph. Extra-curricular opportunities include participation in the UKMT individual and team Mathematics Challenges, and in the Mathematical Association local branch activities.

Extension classes are available for any student applying to Oxbridge, Warwick or Imperial for Mathematics-related courses and who therefore requires additional support with preparation for STEP papers, Oxford Mathematics or Physics Aptitude Tests, or entrance tests at interview.

head of department: Joanna Thomas entry requirements: minimum grade A at GCSE exam board: Edexcel

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music52

Photo: Jessie Plant (Photography Student)

During the A level music course you will explore many aspects

of Music through the core skills of listening, performing and

composing. The course is appealing – girls can choose areas of

study and the material studied and there is plenty of scope

to use music technology. It’s accessible – suitable to all

types of musician with a choice of Areas of Study to suit and

approachable – only one centre-assessed unit.

is it right for you?Do not think of Music A Level as an easy option; ask any A Level Music student. You will be assessed on your performance in three distinct and disparate skill areas, listening, performing and composing. To gain the top grades you will need to perform equally well in each area. However if you have a passion for Music and want to learn more about its mysteries this may be the subject for you. GCSE music and Grade 5 theory would be a benefit as would the higher level practical examinations and some keyboard skills but they are not essential. Real commitment and a creative approach to your studies would be equally beneficial.

a little more...Despite the Government’s attempts to downgrade Music, Universities still recognise the benefits of a strong musical education and the transferable skills that have been encouraged and developed from an early stage.

Transferable skills such as: Communication skills | Listening skills | Performance skills | Working in a group | Taking and delegating responsibility | Demonstrating initiative | Problem solving | Independent learning | Assessing and evaluating own work | Assessing and evaluating the work of others | Working with IT | Creativity and commitment

head of department: Philip Lloyd entry requirements: minimum grade B at GCSE or Grade 5 Theory exam board: AQA

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philosophy&ethics

descriptionAn academic and stimulating course that looks

at interesting philosophical and ethical ideas or

questions. It teaches you to think clearly and to

argue convincingly about profound questions. It is

not simply an academic subject, but addresses the

puzzles and questions that arise in everyone’s life

Philosophy is the ultimate ‘transferable work skill.’

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Photo: Amy Dury

is it right for you?Are you fascinated by questions such as:

‘Can we know that God exists?’ ‘Why is there evil and suffering?’ ‘Is it ever morally right to go to war?’ ‘Are abortions acceptable?’

Would you enjoy the opportunity to develop your philosophical thinking skills and put very famous arguments to the test. Would you like an excellent preparation for university? Do you enjoy learning through discussion, and independent research?

what can I do with it?The skills that you will learn in Religious Studies will be useful to you in a broad range of careers; doctor, lawyer, journalist, psychologist and teacher, to name a few. If you’re thinking seriously of a career in law or medicine then a Philosophy and Ethics A Level is looked upon favourably for undergraduate courses. Ethics: (including) The modules enable you to investigate a range of ethical theories before examining how they respond to the following issues: Sexual ethics | Free will & determinism | Conscience | Environmental & Business Ethics | Virtue Ethics

‘The lessons are inspiring’

‘I love Philosophy and Ethics’

‘This course changed the way I view the world’

entry requirements: minimum grade B in Religious Studies, English, History or Geography at GCSE head of department: Alexis Dowglass exam board: OCR

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photography

56

Photo: Amy Dury

57

description

By studying photography at A Level, you will be introduced to a

variety of experiences exploring a range of photographic media,

techniques and processes. You will use traditional methods and

digital techniques, including black and white darkroom processing

and Photoshop retouching.

Researching the work of other photographers and artists is an integral

part of the investigating and making process, and you will produce

a workbook to underpin your work, documenting your research and

recording the development of your own work.

is it right for you?

You will follow your own ideas through to a final piece, evaluating your own work and learning from experience. We use the

world around us to see in new and exciting ways, and present work in a visually aware, creative way. Photography has a strong

history and tradition that has helped shape societies attitudes over much of the last two centuries both within the fields of

contemporary art as well as design and communication. An education and awareness of these subjects creates an enlightened

and enriched society and culture. It is also true that studying the arts produces flexible, thinking adults capable of engaging

with the world of work in many ways. In addition to a range of technical skills, it offers a range of key skills: creativity, flexibility,

motivation and a range of problem solving and social skills.

what can I do with it?

Photography suits people interested in the visual world, you do not need to be able to draw or consider yourself ‘arty’. Anyone

excited by images and their potential to enrich, enrage, provoke, describe, inform and intrigue will be suitable for this course.

head of department: Amy Dury entry requirements: please contact department exam board: OCR

physical education58

Photo: Ali Hastilow

This course takes a contemporary view of PE and sport,

focusing on it’s dynamic development at local, national and

international levels. It is both theoretical and practical,

developing students’ understanding of movement, performance and

behaviour as well as the knowledge and skills to reach a high

standard of personal performance.

is it right for you?The course would suit individuals who have an interest in sport and the application of scientific, psychological and contemporary issue to sport. The applicant also needs to be participating/coaching in two sporting areas on a regular basis and to a high standard in order to benefit from high practical grades. Candidates need to have the ability to analyse data and relate it to practical knowledge.

The following topics are covered:Historical Studies Popular recreation in pre-industrial Britain | Rational recreation in post-industrial Britain | Nineteenth century public schools | Case studies | Drill | Physical training | Physical education in state schools

Sports Psychology Individual aspects of performance that influence young people’s participation | Group dynamics of performance | Mental preparation for physical activity

Exercise and Sport Physiology Energy | Application of principles of training | Health components of physical fitness | Performance enhancement

what can I do with it?A level PE combines well with subjects such as Biology, Economics, Geography and Psychology. It is a recognised entry qualification to Higher Education and of particular value to those wishing to pursue careers in sport science,sports coaching and development, sports therapy, teaching, leisure management or the Armed Forces. It is also valuable for medically-related courses such as nursing and physiotherapy.

head of department: Sarvi Razavi entry requirements: minimum grade B at GCSE exam board: OCR

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physics

60

Photo: Zula Donoghue (Photography Student)

head of department: Nicola Scotcher entry requirements: minimum grade B at GCSE exam board: OCR

A Level Physics builds on your knowledge from GCSE, deepening

your understanding of familiar concepts including motion,

electricity and medical applications as well as introducing

you to new ideas. Physics is all about understanding the world

around us and as such you will be applying your knowledge to a

range of situations. Through both practical and problem solving

based lessons you will develop the skills needed to become an

independent learner which will be highly beneficial to your

future studies.

is it right for you?Do you enjoy Physics?Can you think outside the box?Are you a competent mathematician?

If so this course is for you. Ideally you will have an A or A* grade in Physics or the Physics component of Double Award Science (those with a high B grade may be considered). Mathematics should have been studied at the higher level at GCSE and a minimum of grade B achieved. Further study of Mathematics at A Level is not essential as we will offer whatever support is necessary.

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psychology

62

Photo: Amy Dury

Psychology is the science of the mind. The human mind is the

most complex machine on Earth. It is the source of all thought

and behaviour. Psychologists use human behaviour as a clue to

the workings of the mind. Although we cannot observe the mind

directly, everything we do, think, feel and say is determined

by the functioning of the mind. So psychologists take human

behaviour as the raw data for testing their theories about how

the mind works.

is it right for you?This A Level is designed to develop skills of analysis and evaluation through an examination of arguments and evidence put forward by psychologists. You are expected to be interested in human behaviour and the world you live in. The ideal student would enjoy discussion, reading about new ideas and challenging assumptions. Good numeracy skills are required due to the scientific/mathematical nature of the subject.

The course consists of: Analysis and evaluation of theories and research | Construction of a coherent, well-balanced argument | Interpretation of data and findings from previous studies | Comparison of different approaches in Psychology | Discussing, listening and debating

See if the book ‘Opening Skinner’s Box’ by Lauren Slater catches your interest. If it does, you’ll enjoy Psychology.

what can I do with it?At universities, Psychology has become a very popular subject with strong links to other social sciences. As it is a science, many students opt for Psychology as a third or fourth science in preparation for Medicine, Forensic Science and Sports Science. It is beneficial in careers which involve working with people and it is also an essential part of some teacher training. Some students progress to study Law or Criminology.

head of department: Olivia Pianet entry requirements: minimum grade B in a Science at GCSE exam board: AQA

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64

spanish

Photo: Amy Dury

Spanish is a hugely important language on the world stage. Spain is an influential

member of the European Union and Spanish is also spoken in most of Central and South

America as well as being the second language of the USA. Students who choose to

study Spanish in the Sixth Form will above all want to learn to speak it well, and

probably hope to use their language skills in their future careers.

is it right for you?The A Level course aims to develop linguistic competence and introduce students to the Spanish culture. You will continue to develop the skills of reading, writing, listening and speaking which you have acquired at GCSE. You will develop your communication skills and develop the confidence to initiate face to face interactions and respond naturally and spontaneously. You will learn about social issues, politics, current affairs and the history of Spain. You will engage critically with text, films and other authentic materials, allowing you to appreciate the language in a cultural context.

Through a sixth form course in Spanish you will acquire not only practical language skills, but also the skills of communication, analysis and argument which will be highly beneficial in any career you pursue. After leaving school you may wish to continue studying Spanish at university. It is possible to combine Spanish with many other subjects e.g. Law, Engineering, History, as well as with other languages. Whatever career you decide to pursue, you will find that your knowledge of Spanish enhances your career prospects.

what can I do with it?Are you passionate about Spain and all things Spanish? Are you independent and proactive in your approach to language learning? This course would suit you if you enjoy setting yourself language goals and targets and working towards them. You should enjoy practising your Spanish and should actively seek opportunities to do so. A true linguist is keen to take risks and to learn from his/her mistakes. You should enjoy building up your grammatical understanding and working towards independence in its application.

head of department: Michèle Cormack entry requirements: minimum grade B at GCSE exam board: AQA

Early Years & Junior SchoolRadinden Manor Road | HoveEast Sussex BN3 6NHT: 01273 280200

Senior School & Sixth Form CollegeMontpelier Road | BrightonEast Sussex BN1 3ATT: 01273 280280 | F: 01273 280281

enquiries@bhhs.gdst.netwww.bhhs.gdst.net

This prospectus is for information only and does not form any part of any contract between parents and the GDST. This publication has necessarily been prepared well in advance of the entry of a pupil to the school and inevitably there may be subsequent alterations.

Brighton & Hove High School GDST