Streetly Sixth Form Prospectus

thestreetlyacademySixth Form Prospectus

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What’s on offer at Streetly . . .

• A full range of academic & vocational courses

• High quality teaching for high quality learning

• Quality advice on progression to university/careers

• Fully refurbished Sixth Form Centre

• Leadership opportunities including D of E

• Free fitness club membership

• Personal laptop for the duration of your course

• A learning café for those essential study breaks

• World class learning platform

• A continued drive to see you achieve your best

• Outstanding personalised support and guidance

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Joining The Streetly Academy Sixth FormWe are delighted that you are considering The Streetly Academy Sixth Form to continue your studies post 16.

We believe the quality of education that we offer is excellent and will stand you in good stead for your next steps, whether that is university, further education or the world of work.

We have an experienced team of staff to support you on your journey, who will ensure that you leave us with qualifications that reflect your determination to succeed. You will be encouraged to develop the skills, confidence and drive to enable you to excel in your chosen career.

We are always happy to welcome applications from students who have not previously benefitted from an education at our school. Our students are a real source of pride to us and you will be guaranteed a friendly and warm welcome from them.

We very much look forward to working with you to meet the demands of Sixth Form life and beyond. The choices you make now are key to your continued achievement and it is of great importance that you are on the right course, set for success. We have high expectations of all students who join us in the Sixth Form and you will be challenged to meet those expectations, to ensure you are well placed to succeed in a competitive world.

We hope you decide to join us.

Billy Downie Headteacher

Billy Downie Headteacher

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Support and GuidanceStudy within the Sixth Form provides privileges and opportunities coupled with an enhanced responsibility as a senior member of the school community. A core challenge in starting your Sixth Form studies will be adjusting to the increased responsibility you will have for managing your studies, in addition to the challenge of developing and honing your independent learning skills and habits. You won’t be left to your own devices, but you will be expected to rise to the challenge.

You will benefit from both academic and pastoral support during your studies and you and your parents will be regularly informed of the progress you are making in learning. Upon starting your courses, a weekly induction session will support your acquisition of key learning habits and a mindset for learning. In addition to your Form Tutor, you will benefit from the wider Sixth Form team including the Head and Assistant Head of Sixth Form, and a Sixth Form

Pastoral Administrator. The Sixth Form Study Centre is managed by a dedicated Sixth Form Learning Mentor who works closely with our students and a team of Raising Achievement tutors.

We hold our Sixth Form students in high regard and maintain very high expectations of them. As a Sixth Form student you will swiftly come to appreciate the privileges of Sixth Form life; you should also be aware of your responsibilities as a senior member of the school community. Our detailed expectations are provided for all students within the Academy planner and enrolment form. These are simple and common sense. Few will find difficulty in upholding them.

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Securing Success Together

We very much value the vital role that parents play in supporting successful performance in Sixth Form study. During the year a range of events are arranged to enable your parents to work with the school in supporting your learning and progression into, through and beyond post 16 education.

These include:

! the Sixth Form Open Evening

! Sixth Form Parents’ Information Evening

! Reaching Ahead, Higher Education Parents’ Event

! Year 12 and 13 Parent consultation Evenings

We are always eager to further parents’ participation in Sixth Form life - whether providing feedback on our provision, a kind offer to speak to our students or providing work experience opportunities.

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Enhanced FacilitiesOur students benefit from modern, purpose-built accommodation providing both study and recreational spaces which include the enhanced sporting facilities that our sports specialism affords. The school has some of the best sports facilities in the West Midlands. We also offer a modern sports hall, dance studio, all weather pitch, swimming pool, well-equipped fitness suite and extensive playing fields. Students can participate in recreation and fitness classes or pick up a Gym pass for use of the facilities at a time that suits.

Sixth Form students have access to a refurbished and dedicated Study Centre within the School’s Sixth Form accommodation and are each provided with a laptop for use both in school and at home. Learning within and beyond the classroom is supported by a world class learning platform which is richly resourced with varied and dynamic learning materials. Coffee bar and refreshment facilities are available to post 16 students throughout the school day.

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Entry RequirementsStepping up to Sixth Form study is both challenging and exciting. It requires you to have secured a successful study record and to have a genuine motivation to learn. We wish to remain an open and inclusive Sixth Form; most importantly we wish to see you enrolled on an appropriate course set for success. Innate curiosity, zest for learning and an appetite for challenge and discovery are always desirable.

Students wishing to follow Level 3 courses (BTEC National, OCR National and AS and A Levels) should have a minimum of 5 A*-C grades in 5 different subjects (including Maths and English). Evidence shows that students need to have successfully secured a variety of skills, through a range of learning experiences, to successfully meet the challenges of Advanced Level Study.

Our A Level programme acknowledges the challenges that different subjects present. Some are harder than others. If your GCSE passes are mostly C grades, we will advise you to follow courses in which your chances of success are greatly enhanced.

Students following the A Level programme will select four courses of study.

Students who don’t meet the above entry requirements may benefit from following the Level 2 course on offer. This enables you to obtain further qualifications in a vocational area and secure GCSE English and/or Maths if necessary. You should have gained 4 GCSE qualifications to apply for this course with grades ranging from A* through to G.

Progression into Year 13Sixth Form students are expected to pass three or more AS subjects in Year 12 before they can progress into Year 13.

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A wide range of courses and qualificationsWe are proud to offer a range of courses of study within the Sixth Form, the majority of these being GCE A Levels. Some of these are in traditional academic disciplines – the subjects you might have studied at GCSE - English Literature or History, for example; others are non-traditional or vocational subjects such as Economics, Film Studies or Travel and Tourism. Some courses are wholly assessed through examination; many offer some practical or coursework assessment. Most of our students will follow four courses during their two years with us.

We also offer a highly-successful Level 2 course for students wishing to strengthen their learning at this level. This course is completed within one year.

All students benefit from a carefully tailored programme which will support their progress as independent learners and responsible citizens. Units of study vary from year to year, but can include Academic Writing skills, BSM: Signal Driving course, Understanding Cultural Diversity and Cooking on a Student Budget.

Level 2

This course is designed to allow you to build on your knowledge and skills in a particular area and help you apply your learning to a variety of situations. Level 2 courses are the equivalent to GCSE passes graded from A*-C. The course will provide you with the equivalent of four passes at GCSE and is very valuable in boosting your performance at this level.

Level 3

These courses provide in-depth knowledge and skills in a particular subject and are very valuable for those students looking at going onto university, training or employment:

GCE Advanced Levels (AS and A Levels)

AS and A Levels are a more traditional route into higher education or university. They can be in traditional academic subjects such as Mathematics and History or in non-traditional and vocational areas such as Business Studies or Film Studies. A Levels are made up of two parts. In Year 12 you study AS Levels and these are qualifications in themselves. Following success in your studies at AS Level (a pass at AS & A Level is graded A-E) you will progress into Year 13 and follow A2 courses. These second-year courses ‘top-up’ your AS qualification to become a full A Level.

BTEC National Courses and OCR National Courses

These are vocational or work-related courses. Like A Levels, they are Level 3 courses but provide a more practical approach to learning. They can provide an ideal next step if you have taken BTEC courses in Year 11.

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Inspiring Leaders and Building CommunityIn addition to your academic studies, we would also like you to benefit from one or more of the enrichment opportunities that we provide each year. Some of these result in accredited qualifications, others in valuable experience. All are centred upon recognising and developing your leadership and community skills. All will be supportive of your personal development and applications to university or employment.

Our enrichment curriculum will vary each year, but currently includes the following:

! Community Sports Leaders award

! Pre-university Skills course

! Duke of Edinburgh award programme

! Community support placement

! Work experience

Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award

Madagascar ProjectThe Streetly Academy has a range of international links, including our charity work with Impact Kenya and a range of international visits. Students are involved in the fundraising and planning of these trips, developing valuable teamwork and organisational skills. Our July 2013 expedition is to Madagascar to assist in a local orphanage and complete a variety of challenges in this diverse country.

The Streetly Academy offers the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award to all members of its sixth form, whether you’re starting from scratch or building upon your achievements from Bronze and Silver. To achieve a Gold Award students complete a Physical, Volunteering, Skill and Residential section, in addition to

the expedition. Expedition training usually takes place in Snowdonia, followed by a practice in the Brecon Beacons. Expedition groups then select the final destination for their qualifying expedition. Upon completion of the award, students may attend the prestigious award ceremony at St James’ Palace.

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Choosing the right coursesAdvanced Level courses progress quickly and are very short. Making confident and informed choices now, will support a positive start to your Sixth Form studies in September. We hold our annual Sixth Form Open Evening in the autumn term of Year 11 to support the decision making process. Academy students have the opportunity to discuss their preferences with a senior member of staff and the Sixth Form team during the autumn term. Being prepared for this discussion is important, so familiarise yourself fully with the courses available, prepare any questions that you have, and begin to think about how your choices will support your career plans.

If you are currently studying elsewhere, we look forward to receiving your application to join the Academy Sixth Form. Once you’ve submitted your application, we will write to you to confirm we’ve received it, and in the Spring term you’ll be invited into school so that we can meet you and discuss your subject preferences with you. You’ll also have the opportunity to look around the school and meet the Sixth Form team. In all cases, we will contact your school and ask for additional information in support of your application.

You will also benefit from the course induction days we hold in July and September. These are designed to support your course choices and continued success with The Streetly Academy. All courses will provide a course handbook to support your learning throughout your studies.

In Year 12, students are expected to study four level 3 courses. One of these may be dropped at the end of Year 12 so that students focus their attention on three courses in Year 13. We would suggest

that in making your course choices, three courses would be complementary and one would offer a contrast.

With a broad range of qualifications and subjects to select from, you might want to consider the following factors when making your choices:

! What subjects or topics are you naturally curious about?

! Which types of subject do you consistently achieve in?

! What plans do you have for a university education?

! Which subjects will support your long-term career plans?

! How do you prefer to learn?

! How do you prefer to be assessed? Through coursework? Through examination? Through performance?

There are a number of web-based questionnaires and tools which can help you in identifying subjects and careers which match your strengths, abilities and preferences. We would recommend you looking at:

! Fast Tomato (www.fasttomato.com)

If you are unclear about a specific career, you should consider the broader employment sectors or areas of work where you see yourself working in the future.

If you are interested in a studying a specific subject at university we would advise you to look at A Level Requirements For Degrees’ available at our information evening or from the Sixth Form Office upon request. In all cases, you should look at the specific requirements for a preferred degree course on the UCAS website (http://www.ucas.com/students/coursesearch/).

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Our Sixth Form CurriculumWe offer a wide range of courses each year from the list below. Courses are run depending upon sufficient student demand and our ability to provide high-quality staffing.

Level 2

BTEC Level 2 Certificate in Travel and Tourism

+GCSE English

+GCSE Mathematics

+ Please note that the school does not run a dedicated GCSE re-sit programme. GCSE’s in English and Mathematics are only available in conjunction with the BTEC Level 2 Certificate in Travel and Tourism

Level 3

BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Business

BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Applied Science (Medical Science)

Cambridge Technicals (ICT)

AS and A Level

Art & Design

Biology

Business Studies

Chemistry

Dance

Design and Technology

Drama & Theatre Studies

Economics

English Language & Literature

English Literature

Film Studies

French

Geography

Health & Social Care (double award)

History

Mathematics (Pure with Mechanics)

Mathematics (Pure with Statistics)

Music Technology

Physical Education

Physics

Psychology

Religious Studies

Sociology

Spanish

Travel and Tourism

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AS and A Level Courses

Life in the Sixth Form prepares you

for university as it provides a balance

between independent learning and

supported tutoring

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Art AS & A LevelThroughout this exciting practical course, candidates are introduced to a variety of experiences employing a range of media, processes and techniques appropriate to the chosen area of study.

At AS Level you will produce two units of work for assessment. You may produce preparatory work and a finished piece/pieces or work of a wholly developmental nature. Assessments will be based on your ability to record observations; analyse and critically evaluate sources such as images, objects, artefacts and texts and showing an understanding of meaning and context; develop ideas through sustained investigation, selecting and using appropriate materials and analysing outcomes; and realise your studies in a final piece or pieces.

During the A2 year of the course students are required to build upon the knowledge, understanding and skills gained in the AS year of the course with a greater depth of study.

Previous students have used this experience to access higher education courses such as Architectural Design, Textile Design, Primary Teaching amongst other visual related courses.

Assessment:

AS Unit 1 - you will be expected to produce a portfolio of work.

AS Unit 2 - is an externally set assignment which will run from February until the deadline for submission.

Weighting - 50% of final A Level grade.

At A2, candidates are required to build upon the knowledge, understanding and skills gained in AS with greater depth of study:

A2 Unit 3 - is a personal investigation in which candidates develop work in response to an idea, issue, concept or theme of their choosing supported by 1000 - 3000 words.

A2 Unit 4 - is an externally set assignment leading to a fifteen hour exam.

Weighting - 50% of A Level grade.

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Biology AS & A LevelBiology today is a hugely important subject. Many newspapers and television programmes are passing comment on GM foods, the latest hopes in medicine for cancer, AIDS or asthma sufferers, organ transplantation, cloning, vaccines, the human genome project, the search for life on Mars, why the dinosaurs disappeared, saving a rare species, bringing a mammoth back to life, diet, rain forests, food scares, holes in the ozone layer, feeding the world. The AS and A Level Biology course cannot supply answers to all the questions raised. It does, however, provide a background from which to study them, understand present ideas and hopefully reach an informed viewpoint. A Biology student is able to not only sense from the information portrayed in the media but is also in a place to shape the future of the world by further study in any of the above areas.

The course involves a study of the main chemicals in the cell, providing an introduction to biochemistry and emphasising how all life on earth follows a similar pattern. The cell itself is studied in detail and then how cells are specialised to form the different organs in animals and plants. Genetics considers the laws governing inheritance and what we know about the structure of the gene, whilst evolution involves some of the great ideas in biology and provides a unifying principle for the subject. There is slightly more emphasis on animals and human health and disease than on the plant kingdom and this seems to reflect the bias shown by many biology students.

Biology can be studied with almost any other A Level subject and may lead on to many different careers in science, business and the arts, since it always serves as a valuable A Level. It is hoped that this course will give students an interest for life, as well as an important qualification to prepare them for a rewarding career in the 21st century.

Assessment:

The AS course is composed of 3 separate units:

! F211: Cells, exchange and transport 30% of total AS grade, 15% of total A2 grade

! F212 Molecules, biodiversity, food and health 50% of total AS grade, 25% of total A2 grade

! F213: Practical skills in biology of total AS grade, 10% of total A2 grade

The A2 course is composed of 3 further units:

! F214 Communication, homeostasis and energy 15% of total A2 grade

! F215 Control, genomes and environment 25% of total A2 grade

! F216: Practical skills in biology 2 10% of total A2 grade

You should have two B Grades, or better, in GCSE Sciences exam components to follow this course at AS level. This course should appeal to students following both the arts and science based courses, although Chemistry AS is advisable for those hoping to study Biology at university.

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Business Studies AS & A LevelA Level Business Studies has proven to be a popular subject at The Streetly Academy, achieving pleasing results for many years now. The principles of this A Level are that you will develop an understanding of how a successful business should operate and the key roles which exist within a business, in order to make decisions which are strategically assessed.

We operate the OCR A Level course which includes four exam units, which cover basic business principles, functions within business, business personnel and strategic decisions. At AS Level, we begin the course covering the basic business principles and this enables students to learn the essential elements of the course even if they have not taken Business Studies before at GCSE.

Assessment:

Unit F291: An Introduction to Business 20% (40%) 1 hour exam in January of Year 12 This unit considers the way in which businesses operate and the effect of the external business environment. The emphasis in the delivery should be on the strategic importance of clear objectives.

Unit F292: Business Functions 30% (60%) 2 hour exam based on pre-seen case study taken in June of Year 12. The emphasis in the delivery is about investigating a business. Candidates should be able to recognise inter-relationships between each of the four main behavioural functions of business and that for an organisation to be a success in a dynamic and challenging environment, such as marketing decisions or financial options which could impact a firm’s success.

Unit F295: People in Organisations 20% 2 hour exam taken in January of Year 13Candidates are expected to show critical awareness of issues related to the human resources aspects of business and to use them in solving problems and/or making decisions.

Unit F297: Strategic Management 30% 2 hour exam based on a pre-seen case study taken in June of Year 13Candidates are required to develop strategies which recognise potential conflict(s) between the objectives of different stakeholder interests and suggest and evaluate resolutions to such conflict(s) and which can be justified in an uncertain business environment.

Business requires academic skills with a requirement to have achieved at least B grades in GCSE English Language. The subject blends well with History and English students due to the ability to develop planned written responses, which is essential.

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Chemistry AS & A LevelChemistry is the central science and impacts on all parts of our lives. An understanding of chemistry is necessary to all other sciences from astronomy to zoology. All of the materials used by engineers and technologists are made by chemical reactions and we all experience chemical reactions continuously, whether it be breathing or baking a cake, driving a car or listening to an MP3 player. Chemistry is concerned with all aspects of molecules, their physical and chemical properties, their composition and structure, their synthesis and use in the 21st century. This course will be of interest to you if you want to study chemistry, medicine, forensic science, biochemistry, pharmacology or related subjects.

Studying chemistry gives you an excellent qualification for a wide career choice within science, industry or commerce. A chemistry student is numerate, analytical, and practical and has good problem solving, presentation and communication skills. Jobs are to be found in small, medium and multinational chemical companies as well as in business, banking, accountancy, marketing, advertising, teaching, and the IT sector.

We live in an age of chemistry-based technology, and future demands will require chemical expertise in many areas of the chemical, pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. There are many different areas you could work in for example; Research and development, Production, Marketing and sales, Management, etc.

Assessment:

The AS course is composed of 3 separate units:

! F321: Atoms, bonds and groups 30% of total AS grade, 15% of total A2 grade

! F322: Chains, energy and resources 50% of total AS grade, 25% of total A2 grade

! F323: Practical skills in chemistry 1 20% of total AS grade, 10% of total A2 grade

The A2 course is composed of 3 further units:

! F324: Rings, polymers and analysis 15% of total A2 grade

! F325: Equilibria, energetic and elements 25% of total A2 grade

! F326: Practical skills in chemistry 2 10% of total A2 grade

To be successful at Advanced Level you must have two B Grades in GCSE Sciences or better in the exam components.

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Dance AS & A LevelA Level Dance is an exciting and creative journey into the arts. It will encourage you to broaden your learning by enabling you to experience, perform and create choreography. The course will extend your appreciation of dance whilst developing critical thinking skills in relation to Dance as an art form

Teachers will guide you through a number of dance genres and styles, looking at a diverse range of dance works and choreographers. The course will take you out of the classroom and studio by facilitating theatre trips and dance company workshops.

As a dance student you will be given the tools to create imaginative dances by drawing on the conventions and traditions of the past. You will perform and interpret dance ideas, demonstrating technical and expressive skills, and safe practice, through solo and group work. You will learn to appreciate the significance of your own and professional works; understand the contextual influences on dance; evaluate and distinguish between fact and opinion, and assess information from a variety of sources.

If you dream of making a living from your passion for dance, it’s really possible: as a dancer yourself, as a choreographer, or maybe as a teacher. This course will provide you with these opportunities... but it also has a vision, and that is to be the first step in a career for you that includes dance.

To be successful and secure high achievement at Advanced Level it is preferable for you to have taken Dance at GCSE level or have previous dance exam experience, i.e. graded assessments in Ballet etc. You should have some practical dance experience, dance outside of school, and have experience in creating choreography.

Assessment:

Unit 1 – DANC1Understanding Dance

40% of AS, 20% of A Level1 hour 30 minutes examination 60 marksTwo sections: A – Structured questions (20 marks)B – Two essay questions (40 marks)

Unit 2 – DANC2Choreography and Performance

60% of AS, 30% of A LevelPractical coursework – internally assessed (90 marks)

Two sections:A – Solo choreography and performance (60 marks)B – Performance in a duo/trio: teacher and pupil choreograph this together. (30 marks)

Unit 3 – DANC3Dance Appreciation: Content and Context

25% of A Level1 hour 30 minutes examination 80 marksTwo sections: A – One question on chosen area of study (40 marks)B – One question on set work studied (40 marks)

Unit 4 – DANC4Group Choreography and Solo Performance

25% of A LevelPractical examination – externally assessed (75 marks)

Two sections: A – Group choreography (45 marks)B – Solo performance (30 marks)

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Design and Technology: Product Design (Graphics) A LevelProduct Design encompasses a wide range of design disciplines but is firmly rooted in the skills required to design and make high quality products; products that are fit for purpose, satisfy wants and needs, and enhance our day-to-day lives.

The A Level course we offer allows students from a wide range of Design & Technology backgrounds to be successful. It combines the skills needed to communicate your design ideas through sketching, technical drawing, traditional and computer modelling with a knowledge of Product Design, Resistant Materials, Graphics and Engineering. You will need to have gained a grade C or above in one of these areas at GCSE level to access this course.

During Year 12 you will produce a Portfolio of Creative Skills as your independent coursework element. This allows you to demonstrate your ability to investigate a product in depth, to show how creative you can be as a designer, and to evidence your practical skills. This counts towards 60% of the AS grade.

At the end of the year a 1.5 hour examination covers the theoretical content of the course. At AS the theory expands on that covered at GCSE, broadening your knowledge and deepening your understanding of the properties of materials, the commercial manufacture of products and the use of ICT in industry. This counts towards 40% of the final grade.

During Year 13 the theory focuses on developing your knowledge and understanding of a range of modern design and manufacturing practices and contemporary design issues. The modern designer must have a good working knowledge of the use of ICT and systems and control technology in the design and manufacture of products. They must also be aware of the important contributions of designers from the past and you will study the major design movements from the mid-19th century to the present day. You will also develop an awareness of the impact of design and technological activities on the environment. Sustainable product design is a key feature of modern design practices. There is a 2 hour exam at the end of Year 13 which counts towards 40% of the final grade.

The A2 coursework is an independent design project. Having identified a real problem, you work closely with a client or user group to design and model an original and viable solution to their problem, identifying suitable materials and manufacturing processes for its commercial production. This counts towards 60% of the A2 grade.

This A Level can lead to a wide range of degree courses and careers; product design, architecture, graphic design, advertising and automotive design to name a few. As a subject it links well with Art, Business Studies and ICT.

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Drama & Theatre Studies AS & A LevelDrama and Theatre Studies enables you to explore a wide range of drama and theatre skills and practitioners enabling you to grow creatively and imaginatively through your understanding and practice of concepts and performance work.

To succeed in this subject you need an enjoyment of theatre, a confident approach to performing, the ability to work as part of a team, the ability to research independently and write analytically about what you do and what you see.

The course encourages creative approaches. It offers a mix of theory and practice and covers all aspects of drama and theatre work. The course is assessed by both examination and internal assessment. All students have to perform, and so a real interest in performing and watching others perform is vital.

Assessment:

The AS course consists of two units and the A2 course consists of a further two units.

AS Level:

Unit 1 - Exploration of Drama and TheatreThis unit introduces students to the content of plays written for the theatre. They will learn how to analyse plays in a variety of ways so that they become familiar with the way written plays can be interpreted for realisation in performance.

Unit 2 - Theatre Text in PerformanceThis unit offers students the chance to demonstrate skills in a performance environment. The knowledge and understanding gained during the study of two plays in Unit 1 can now be applied with a view to delivering a performance to an audience.

A Level:

Unit 3 - Exploration of Dramatic PerformanceThis unit requires the creation of a unique and original piece of theatre. The knowledge and understanding gained in the AS units can now be applied to a created production.

Students will be assessed on both the process of creation and the finished product in the form of a performance to an invited audience.

Unit 4 - Theatre Text in ContextThis externally examined written unit requires the detailed study of one set play text and one prescribed historical period of theatrical development.

It is not necessary to have studied Drama at GCSE though we would expect you to demonstrate an interest in drama and a commitment to performing.

A Level creates pathways to further education and to all industries which rely on good communication such as teaching and journalism, as well as those directly involved with theatre and television.

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A Level Economics has seen record numbers of students in the current AS course at The Streetly Academy, and offers a new subject for many students who have an interest in the world we live in. The principles of this A Level are that you will develop a consideration about how the local and wider world we live in is structured and develop economic principles as to how these areas may be improved. For example, developing ideas as to how we might improve poverty in third world countries and how this might be done, with consideration to the impact of such choices.

We operate the OCR A Level course which includes four exam units, which cover economic topics; Markets in Action, The National and International Economy, Work and Leisure and The Global Economy. At AS level, we begin the course covering basic concepts which will enable students to understand what economic problems exist. Later in the course economic problems will be put before students and they will need to make analytical judgements about how problems should be dealt with.

The units covered are:

Unit F581: Markets in Action 25% (50%) 90 minute exam in January of Year 12

This unit provides an introduction to why economic choices have to be made, the market model, how markets can be efficient and also how they can fail. For example- we will consider why we live in a world where we chose to let people starve and we can throw food away.

AS F582: The National and International Economy 25% (50%) 90 minute exam taken in June of Year 12.

Candidates are required to answer questions based on a particular theme or case study, including some short-answer and some data-interpretation questions, plus one question which requires an answer written in extended continuous prose.

This unit provides an introduction to how the level of macroeconomic activity is determined and to key macroeconomic indicators, problems and policies. For example- we will consider the impact that unemployment has upon our society and what the Government can do to resolve these problems.

Unit F583: Economics of Work and Leisure 25% 2 hour exam taken in January of Year 13

This unit focuses principally on the economic concepts and theories that help economists to understand and analyse labour market issues. It considers leisure industries in terms of models of market structure and the ways in which leisure needs have a bearing upon the demand and supply of labour.

A2 F585: The Global Economy 25% 2 hour exam based on a pre-seen case study taken in June of Year 13

This unit provides the conceptual framework for the understanding, analysis and evaluation of macroeconomic performance in national, regional and global contexts. It considers the causes and consequences of economic growth in: developed economies, such as the UK; regional blocs such as the EU; developing economies; and the wider global economy.

Economics requires high levels of academic skills, and a requirement to have achieved at least a B grade in GCSE English Language. The subject blends well with History, Business Studies and English due to the ability to develop planned written responses, which is essential. Maths skills are not significant in this course, contrary to common opinion.

An Economics A Level is well received with many universities and a pleasing A Level grade can help with many university applications. Finally, the skills used in this subject help students analytical and evaluative skills in many other aspects of their learning, in other subjects at A Level and beyond.

Economics AS & A Level

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English Language and Literature AS & A LevelEnglish Language and Literature is certainly a subject very well regarded by Higher Education institutions, and because you are studying the thing that you will probably use the most whatever you do in life – your language – it easily complements any educational course you might follow, and provides a new perspective on most conceivable professions.

At university, there is a considerable range of English–related courses available, that directly build on one or more aspects of your work at AS and A Level, from creative writing through to speech therapy. However, outside the wider school of English, your knowledge and skills will share ground with the many subjects within the social sciences, and particularly with Psychology, Sociology, and law-related courses. Even further afield it is not difficult to see the value of a sophisticated understanding of English in areas of design, business computer science – in almost anything you could imagine, really.

When you come to begin a career, you will find linguistic study will make you an attractive, skilled and flexible employee in most services and industries. Whether it is the increased insight you can bring to analysing written or spoken language or your ability to control and shape your own communication, abilities of this nature will prove a real benefit to you. Even some of the specific topics you will have studied may find their niche: maybe the language and technology work you have done at AS Level will give you an overview of the impact of technology as you start out as a software designer. Or, perhaps the language acquisition topic will help you get to grips with work in childcare and with very young children. You never know, you might even want to start teaching English yourself and passing your ideas on!

Students embarking on the course should have passed GCSE English Higher Tier at a Grade B or above.

Assessment:

This specification is divided into four units, two AS units and two A2.

AS Level

Unit 1: ELLA1Integrated analysis and text production(1 hr 30 min open book examination)50% AS, 25% A2

Unit 2: ELLA2Analysing speech and its representations(1hr 30 min, closed book examination)50% AS, 25% A2

A2 Level

Unit 3: ELLA3Comparative Analysis and text adaptation(2hr 30 min closed book examination)30 % A Level

Unit 4: ELLA4Comparative analysis through independent study(Coursework module)20% A2

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English Literature AS & A Level

English Literature is a valuable subject that is recognized as such by both employers and providers of higher education. Why study English Literature? The answer, simply, is that you have a passion for reading great novels, plays and poetry. That is what you’ll be doing a lot of on this course. That and discussing literature with other students who share the same passion. Oh, and writing about it.

Over the centuries, writers have produced some wonderful literature in English, and not just the Stratford Bard. Think of Dickens. Miller, Shelley, Austen, Eliot (both T.S. and George) and Thomas (Edward, Dylan and R.S.). Oh, and Wordsworth. And Steinbeck. And the Brontes. And….. The list seems infinite. It’s not just about dead authors either. There are many living writers who are inspirational in their writing. You’ll get a chance to examine why on this course. So, if you like reading, you like reading great literature and you like giving your opinions about it. This course is the one for you.

The ability to communicate effectively is a skill that underpins all careers as well as all academic disciplines. Specifically, the course could lead to careers in the media, written and spoken, teaching, the film industry, marketing and sales, academia and research, printing. Popular subject links are cultural studies, journalism, media studies, history, philosophy, the classics, creative writing, printing, librarianship, law.

Students embarking on the course should have passed GCSE English Higher Tier at a Grade B or above.

Assessment:

This specification is divided into a total of four units, two AS units and two A2.

AS Level

Unit 1: LITB1Aspects of Narrative (two hour open book examination)60% AS, 30% A2

Unit 2: LITB2Genre study (two written pieces of coursework)40% AS, 20% A2

A2 Level

Unit 3: LITB3Texts and Genres- Elements of the Gothic (2 hour closed book exam)30% of A2

Unit 4: LITB4Further and Independent reading (two pieces of coursework, on texts of your choice)20% of A2

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Film Studies AS & A Level

Film Studies is an exciting area of study which critically engages with one of the major art forms of the twentieth and twenty-first centuries. You will develop some key skills in analysis and reflection, examining films from across the world, in addition to their production contexts and audiences. A rewarding aspect of the course will be your application of knowledge and understanding to the development of creative and original ideas for new film products – presented visually or in scripted form.

AS has two units and A2 has two units. A wide range of films will be studied to support these units. The course is assessed through written examination and practical coursework assignments. Film Studies is not an easy option; you will have to absorb a high level of technical knowledge in a short time.

Assessment:

AS Level

Unit 1: FM1 20 % (40%) Coursework

Exploring Film Form

! One analysis of how the micro aspects in a chosen extract from a film produce meanings and responses. You will analyse a sequence from a film of your choice, explore the purpose of the sequence and explain how the filmmaker is making meaning or triggering emotions through the use of cinematography. Mise en scene, editing, sound, lighting and colour. (1500 words) (30 marks)

! One creative project based on a film sequence or short film. You will develop an outline for an original film idea. This can be expressed in written or photographic form. (50 marks: sequence or short film [40]/reflective analysis [10])

Unit 2: FM2 30% (60%) Examination

2½ hours written paper

British and American Film

Three questions, one from each section:

Section A: Response to stimulus material which explores producers and audiences of film (40)

Section B: Topics in British Film (40) e.g. the representation of asylum seekers and refugees in British films

Section C: US Film - Comparative study of two films (40) e.g. two different gangster films

A Level (AS + a further 2 units)

Unit 3: FM3 25 % Coursework

Film Research and Creative Projects

! a small-scale research project (40)

! creative project (60 - 45 product/15 reflective analysis)

Unit 4: FM4 25 % Examination:

2 ¾ hour Written Paper

Varieties of Film Experience: Issues and Debates

Three questions, one from each section:

Section A: World Cinema topics (35): Urban Stories – Power, Poverty & Conflict

Section B: Spectatorship topics (35): Popular Cinema and Emotions

Film Studies teaches high order analysis and, as such, supports other subjects. It combines particularly well with Art, English Language, English Literature, Drama and Theatre Studies and History.

Most universities now offer Film or Media courses as part of the curriculum. In recent years it has proved to be one of the fastest growth areas within higher education. Film Studies develops a keen analytical ability which will provide a strong foundation for further study in Film Theory, Film History, Film Criticism and other arts, multimedia, humanities and social science courses.

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French AS & A LevelThe A Level French course aims to build on skills acquired at GCSE and develop them further by developing a deeper understanding of French culture and society. The course is designed to facilitate foreign travel, enhance employment prospects and provide a basis for further study in higher education.

Each topic includes the development of written and spoken French. Students will learn the necessary grammar structures and be able to work with a foreign language assistant (French native) to facilitate intercultural communication to the following areas:

! Media

! Healthy living and lifestyle

! Family & relationships

! Popular Culture

! The multicultural society

! Contemporary social issues

! Environment

! Independent study of two cultural topics (students can choose their area of study )

Some examples of careers using languages are Journalism, Translating and Interpreting, and Education.

It is essential for students embarking on the AS course to have passed the GCSE Higher Tier examination at a grade B or above.

Assessment

AS Unit 1 (listening, reading and writing) 70% of AS grade (35% of A Level)

AS Unit 2 (speaking) 30% of AS grade (15% of A Level)

A2 Unit 3 (listening, reading and writing) 35% of grade

A2 Unit 4 (speaking) 15% of grade

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Geography AS & A LevelGeography is a highly successful subject which our students love – 100% of our AS students have taken it at A2 level.

The insight Geography provides into the understanding of the world around us and the sheer contemporary nature of the issues discussed, makes it an ideal subject to study at AS and A Level. You will study core Physical and Human Geography. In each area of study you will consider your own values and attitudes to the issues being studied and will develop a range of geographical skills. You will be expected to attend a residential field trip as part of the A Level course.

Geography is highly regarded by universities and employers in providing students with a rounded approach to academic study and gives them the skills needed for university or work. Future career paths are very broad including commerce, law, marketing and management to research, teaching and planning.

Course entry requirements: Minimum of a grade C at GCSE level.

Assessment:

AS

Unit 1 - GEOG 1Rivers, Glaciation, Population and Energy are studied to answer structured short and extended questions for a 2 hour exam in the summer.

Unit 2 - GEOG 2Fieldwork questions and data interpretation from either rivers or population sections are studied to answer structured short and extended questions for a 1 hour exam in January.

A2

Unit 3 - GEOG 3The topics are: Plate tectonics and Associated hazards (Volcanoes/earthquakes/…), Weather and Climate and Associated hazards (hurricanes/storms...), Globalisation (rich vs poor countries, transnational companies operation and sustainable development ) World Cities (urbanisation, regeneration and retailing) In the exam you answer structured short and extended questions, plus an essay for a 2 hours and 30 minutes exam.

Unit 4 - GEOG4BIs the issue paper which contains structured short and extended questions based on an Advance Information Booklet, released on 1 November for January examination. We work with you to understand the booklet and possible questions. The topic changes each year, but it is always stimulating, challenging and relevant!

THERE IS NO COURSEWORK.

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Health and Social Care AS & A Level (Double Award)

OCR A Level Health and Social Care is a popular and successful subject at The Streetly Academy. Our A Level course is designed to help:

Develop and sustain an interest in health, early-years care and education, social care and issues affecting the care sector

Acquire knowledge and understanding of health, early-years care and education and issues affecting the health and social care sector

Develop skills that will enable you to make an effective contribution to the care sector including skills of research, evaluation and problem-solving in a work related context

Apply your knowledge, understanding and skills

Prepare you for further study and training.

Assessment:

Our exciting double award A Level course includes 6 units studied in Year 12 and a further 6 units studied in Year 13. The units covered in Year 12 are:

Unit 1 – Promoting Quality care. This unit is examined which means you will do an exam in June of Year 12. This unit covers how attitudes and prejudices are learnt, the rights and responsibilities of people who use services and providers and facilitation of access to health and social care services.

Unit 2 – Communication. This unit is a coursework unit and it investigates the different types of communication skills used in care settings and their purpose. You will find out how effective communication values individuals and promotes health and well-being. You will also have the opportunity to learn and practise communication skills when you go on work experience to an early years setting

Unit 3 – Promoting Good health.This unit (coursework) investigates the range of lifestyle choices and societal factors which influence health and well-being. You will investigate the ways in which

ill-health can be prevented and will get the opportunity to develop your own health promotion campaign and assess it’s impact on the target group.

Unit 5 – Working in Early Years care and Education. This unit (coursework) investigates the range of care and education provision for children in early years settings (0-8 years). You will investigate the job roles available within early years care and education and will gain an understanding of the ways that children learn and methods that can be used to aid learning and development.

Unit 6 – Health as a Lifestyle Choice. This unit (coursework) enables you to explore health as a lifestyle choice for the individuals at all life-stages. You will learn about how diet and exercise can contribute in a positive way to an individuals’ overall health and well-being.

Unit 9 – Caring for Older People. This examined unit looks at the effects of ageing and the impact this may have on the physical, cognitive, emotional and social life of people aged 65+.

In Year 13 the following units are covered:

Unit 10 – Care Practice and Provision. This unit (coursework) will require you to carry out an investigation to show how demographic factors influence the organisation and provision of health, social care and early years services in our local area.

Unit 11 – Understanding Human Behaviour. This unit (an exam) provides an understanding of the influences that can affect growth and development and of the concepts and theories that can be used to explain human behaviour across different life stages.

Unit 12 – Anatomy and Physiology in Practice. In this unit (an exam) you will develop your knowledge and understanding of the gross structure, basic micro-anatomy and functions of the main body systems. The functions of these systems will be used to explain some of the symptoms of a range of common human

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Health and Social Care AS & A Level (Double Award)

diseases and dysfunctions, together with causes, appropriate diagnostic tests, care and treatment.

Unit 13 - Child Development. This unit (coursework) will enable you to investigate the development of children from birth to eight years and to consider the influences that can affect their development.

Unit 14 – Mental Health Issues. This unit (coursework) explores the concepts, types, causes and images of mental health, and the influence the media has on society’s perception and treatment of individuals with mental health needs.

Unit 16 – Research Methods. In this unit (coursework), you will select a topic that is relevant to a health, social care or early years setting and carry out a small scale research project based on your own research question or hypothesis.

Health and Social Care is a vocational subject, and combines especially well with English, Science and Psychology. We welcome students who have achieved at least C grades in GCSE Science, English Language and Mathematics. These entry requirements reflect the written and logical skills that are essential for success in A Level Health and Social Care.

A Level Health and Social Care develops the skills of research, analysis, evaluation, and combines them with the ability to form your own judgements about Health and Social Care. These skills will not only benefit you in your other A Levels, but are also highly-regarded by university admissions tutors.

Studying Health and Social Care at A Level can lead to a wide range of careers, including teaching, nursing, social work and child care.

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History AS & A LevelA Level History is a consistently popular and successful subject at The Streetly Academy. Our A Level course will not only deepen your understanding of recent British and European History, but also refine your skills as an historian.

Our exciting AQA A Level course includes three exam units, which cover late nineteenth and early twentieth-century British and European History. At AS Level, we investigate where Germany went wrong, unearthing the roots of Nazism in the years before the First World War. In a thought-provoking Russia unit, we explore the limits of dictatorship under Stalinist rule. Our highly-regarded A2 unit in British History charts our national journey from 1918 to 1964, through periods of war, peace, depression and prosperity. Not only do we study individuals such as Winston Churchill and Clement Attlee, but we also assess how their decisions transformed the lives of the British people. In addition, you will plan, research and write an Historical Enquiry in Year 13. This personal investigation of an issue spanning a period of at least 100 years can be based either on a teacher-led introductory course, or on an historical topic of your own choice.

Assessment:

Unit 1: The Development of Germany, 1871-1925 (HIS1J)

Written examination (1hr 15m) – two questions to be answered from a choice of three two-part questions. Tests understanding of change over time.

Unit 2: The Impact of Stalin’s Leadership in the USSR, 1924-41 (HIS2L)

Written exam (1hr 30m) – one compulsory two-part, source-based question and one structured two-part question from a choice of two. Tests understanding of a significant period of history in depth.

Unit 3: The State and People: Britain, 1918-64 (HIS3J)

Written exam (1hr 30m) – two essay questions to be answered from a choice of three. Tests understanding both in depth and breadth.

Unit 4: Historical Enquiry

3500-word coursework essay – analysis of an historical issue exploring change over at least 100 years. Choice of topics – based on teacher-led course or individual research. Marked in school and moderated by AQA.

History is an academic subject, and combines especially well with English, Geography, Science and Modern Languages. We welcome students who have achieved at least B grades in GCSE History, English Language and Mathematics. These entry requirements reflect the historical, written and logical skills that are essential for success in A Level History.

A Level History develops the skills of research, analysis, evaluation, and combines them with the ability to form your own judgements about the past. These skills will not only benefit you in your other A Levels, but are also highly-regarded by university admissions tutors. In addition to degrees in History and related disciplines, History can lead to a wide range of careers, including journalism, business, public service and education.

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Mathematics AS & A Level

Mathematics (Pure with Mechanics) AS & A LevelThis course covers a basic core of Pure Mathematics with students opting to supplement this with additional modules in Mechanics.

Pure Mathematics includes algebra, trigonometry, sequences, coordinate geometry and calculus. The Pure Maths with Mechanics course includes forces and motion. This is particularly suited to those studying Physics and Engineering.

This exciting Mathematics course offers variety, challenge and interest. The examination board is Edexcel. There are many good reasons as to why you should study A Level Mathematics at The Streetly Academy:

! It will help you in your other A Level subjects as well as a variety of degree courses

! A Level Mathematics will give you transferable skills for the real world, including logical and analytical skills as well as problem solving.

! On average people who have studied A Level Mathematics earn at least 10% more than those who have not and earning potential is huge in certain areas

! The types of careers which lead on from Mathematics are some of the most interesting and varied

! The Academy benefits from very experienced teachers with a proven track record of success

Mathematics (Pure with Statistics) AS & A LevelThis course covers a basic core of Pure Mathematics with students opting to supplement this with additional modules in Statistics.

Pure Mathematics includes algebra, trigonometry, sequences, coordinate geometry and calculus. The Pure Maths with Statistics course includes appropriate representation of data, averages, standard deviation and probability. This is appropriate for students of Geography, Economics, Business Studies and Biology. This course will equip you with many skills you are likely to need in many degree subjects as well as in a variety of different careers.

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Music Technology AS & A LevelMusic Technology is the study of how to use a recording studio and the equipment you would expect to find in a modern recording facility. It also involves learning how to sequence music and use professional sequencing software. The Music Department is fully equipped with the latest Apple computers installed with Logic Pro 9 and professional quality recording equipment as used in studios.

Music Technology is aimed at anyone who is interested in pursuing a career in the music industry. If you want to produce or record artists you must have a good grounding in the workings of a recording studio.

To follow this course at AS and A Level, you would ordinarily have achieved a C grade at GCSE in Music.

Assessment:

The course consists of three elements; Recording, Sequencing and Listening. These are structured into Units 1-4:

AS Unit 1: Music Technology - Portfolio 1Pupils will produce a 3 track CD with a sequenced performance; a multi-track recording and a creative sequenced arrangement.

AS Unit 2: Listening and AnalysingPupils will study the development of styles most common to popular music.

A2 Unit 3: Music Technology - Portfolio 2Unit 3 builds on skills gained from Unit 1, and extends these to include a composition task. Pupils will also study the development of technology- based music.

A2 Unit 4: Analysing and ProducingPupils will demonstrate their knowledge of music and the principles of music technology through a series of written commentaries, manipulations and production tasks.

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Physical Education AS & A LevelPhysical Education offers a variety of learning experiences for all students. You will examine the world of sport, along with yourself as a sports person. Furthermore, you will work towards becoming an expert in teaching others, improving your own performance and developing an understanding of what makes a champion.

A Level Physical Education develops the skills of research, analysis, evaluation, and combines them with your own high level performance in your chosen activities. These skills will not only benefit you in your other A Levels, but are also highly-regarded by university admissions tutors. In addition to degrees in Physical Education, Sports Science and related disciplines, Physical Education can lead to a wide range of careers, including sports management, sports marketing, the armed forces, outdoor pursuits, government and local government policy development, sports journalism, sports psychology and physiotherapy.

To access this stimulating course you need to have a minimum of a C grade in the written paper at GCSE level. You also need to be participating regularly at a high level in at least one sporting activity.

Assessment:

Our exciting OCR A Level course is divided into a total of 4 units, 2 AS units and 2 A2 units.

AS level is made up of two mandatory units:

Unit G451: Externally assessed through a 2 hour exam, taught in three sections.

! Anatomy and Physiology

! Acquiring movement skills

! Social and Cultural Studies

Unit G452: Consists of 2 practical activities and a performance evaluation project.

A Level is made up of two mandatory units at AS and two further units at A2:

Unit G453: Externally assessed through examination.

! Exercise and Sport Physiology

! Historical Studies

! Comparative Studies

Unit G454: Consists of 1 practical activity and a performance evaluation project.

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Physics AS & A Level Physics is the science that explains why the universe is as it is and impacts on all parts of our lives. An understanding of physics is necessary in all other sciences from astronomy to zoology. All of the materials used by engineers and technologists are chosen and tested for safety by physicists; we all experience forces and transfer energy continuously, whether it be breathing or baking a cake, driving a car or listening to a battery driven MP3 player. Physics is concerned with all aspects of force and energy from the collisions of galaxies to colliding tiny parts of atoms in the Large Hadron Collider. This course will be of interest to you if you want to study Physics, medicine, engineering, mathematics, computing or related subjects.

Studying physics gives you an excellent qualification for a wide career choice within science, industry or commerce. A physics student is numerate, analytical, and practical and has good problem solving, presentation and communication skills. Jobs are to be found in aerospace, engineering, software design and nuclear power as well as in business, banking, accountancy, marketing, advertising, teaching, and the IT sector.

To be successful at Advanced Level you must have two B Grades in GCSE Sciences or better in the exam components.

Assessment:

We study OCR Physics at AS and A2 level. The unit titles and weightings are as follows:

AS Unit G481: Mechanics30% of the total AS GCE marks, 15% of total A2 mark.1 h written paper, 60 marks, candidates answer all questions.

AS Unit G482: Electrons, Waves and Photons50% of the total AS GCE marks, 25% of total A2 mark.1 h 45 min written paper, 100 marks, candidates answer all questions.

AS Unit G483: Practical Skills in Physics 120% of the total AS GCE marks, 10% of total A2 mark.Coursework, 40 marks, candidates complete three tasks set by OCR. Tasks are marked by the centre using a mark scheme written by OCR.

A2 Unit G484: The Newtonian world15% of the total A2 GCE mark.1 h written paper, 60 marks, candidates answer all questions.

A2 Unit G485: Fields, particles and frontiers of physics25% of the total A2 GCE mark.1 h 45 min written paper, 100 marks, candidates answer all questions.

A2 Unit G486: Practical Skills in Physics 210% of the total A2 GCE mark.

Coursework, 40 marks, candidates complete three tasks set by OCR. Tasks are marked by the centre using a mark scheme written by OCR.

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Psychology AS & A LevelA Level Psychology is a consistently popular and successful subject at The Streetly Academy. Our A Level course will not only deepen your understanding of Psychological theories and studies but will also develop your skills of analysis.

The AQA A Level course includes four exam units, which covers Developmental, Cognitive ad Research Methods, the second unit covers Individual differences, biological and Social Psychology. At AS Level, we investigate how attachments impact on relationships, how memories develop and the accuracy of eye-witness testimony. In a thought-provoking abnormality unit we explore the limits of the definitions of abnormality. Our highly-regarded A2 Psychology units are how relationships form and why they breakdown. We consider the factors which lead to aggressive behaviour and how biological processes explain these levels of aggression. Eating behaviour covers the topical issue of eating disorders. The fourth explores explanations and treatments of schizophrenia. Also mass media is analysed and how it impacts on human behaviour.

Assessment:

Unit 1: Cognitive and Developmental Psychology (PSYA1)

Written exam (1hr 30m) – Short answer questions and a 12 mark question. All questions need to be answered.

Unit 2: Individual Differences and Biological Aspects of Behaviour (PSYA2)

Written exam (1hr 30m) – all questions are compulsory. Short answer questions and a 12 mark question. Tests understanding of a significant concepts of psychology in depth.

Unit 3: Relationships, Aggression & Eating Behaviour. (PSYA3)

Written exam (1hr 30m) – three essay questions (24 marks each) to be answered from a choice of six. Tests understanding both in depth and breadth.

Unit 4: Schizophrenia, Mass Media & Research Methods(PSYA4)

One essay questions plus a series of analytical and application short answer questions.

Psychology is an academic subject, and combines especially well with English, Sociology and the Sciences. We welcome students who have achieved at least B grades in GCSE Science, English Language and Mathematics. These entry requirements reflect the analytical, written and logical skills that are essential for success in A Level Psychology.

A Level Psychology develops the skills of research, analysis, evaluation, and combines them with the ability to form your own opinions of explanations of human behaviour. These skills will not only benefit you in your other A Levels, but are also highly-regarded by university admissions tutors. In addition to degrees in Psychology and related disciplines, Psychology can lead to a wide range of careers, including Counselling, all fields within Psychology, Social Work and education.

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Religious Studies AS & A LevelEach year a small group of committed, motivated and interested students opt for Religious Studies A Level at The Streetly Academy. The A Level will broaden you understanding of philosophy and ethics, deepen your knowledge of religious traditions and equip you with many valuable and transferable academic skills.

Our exciting AQA A Level course includes three exam units, which cover ethical theory, philosophical ideas and a synoptic paper on life, death and beyond. At AS Level, the course divides into Religion, Philosophy, and Science in which we investigate miracles, the formation of the universe and design arguments in support of the existence of God. In Religion and Ethics, in which we examine two ethical theories and assess how these can be applied to relevant and contemporary medical issues. The course enables you to become skilled in writing balanced, accurate and informative essays as well as expressing your ideas and opinions verbally. It gives you time to process your ideas and develop them into coherent arguments. These skills will continue to be a major focus as you move into Year 13 and our extremely interesting A2 units. At A2, you will examine the philosophical and religious problem of evil. You will also study the ontological arguments as an alternative type of argument for God’s existence. The final unit you will study for this part of the course is entitled ‘Body, Soul and Personal Identity.’

In addition to this, you will complete your synoptic unit on ‘Life, Death and Beyond,’ towards the end of Year 13. This is a fantastic opportunity for you to strengthen your understanding by consolidating and extending upon all prior learning. This unit requires a great deal of independence and determination on your part but is extremely rewarding.

Assessment:

Units 1 and 2: Religion, Philosophy and Science and Religion and Ethics

Two written exams – two questions to be answered in each paper from a choice of three two-part questions.

Unit 3: Philosophy of Religion

Written exam – two questions to be answered from a choice of three.

Unit 4: Life, Death and Beyond

Written exam

Religious Studies is an academic subject, and combines especially well with English, Sociology, Psychology and History, but also complements Arts, Science and Mathematics. We welcome students who have achieved at least C grades in GCSE Religious Education and English. These entry requirements reflect the written and logical skills that are essential for success in A Level Religious Studies. It is a useful preparation for anyone wishing to enter a career which involves working with people, or for anyone wishing to go on to study anything which involves concepts, including abstract concepts.

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Sociology AS & A LevelSociology is a fascinating way of trying to understand our complex and constantly changing society. Sociology is not about simply presenting facts about society. Instead it is about different interpretations of those facts and explanations for why they occur. Sociologists seek to identify patterns and relationships between different parts of society and seek to establish meaning through the study of evidence. Sociology is also concerned with ideas and theories about the nature of society and the individuals in it. A key element of sociology is an attempt to understand our identities and the cultures we live in.

Sociology is an inherently interesting subject because it is about all of us and our place in society. It helps you to think beyond the obvious and it helps you to think differently about the world around you. Sociology compliments a range of other subjects through the skills of argument, questioning, essay writing and discussion. It is also a very wide-ranging subject because almost anything can be explained sociologically.

Assessment:

Unit 1 Families and Households The examination is 1 hour and consists of short and longer (24 mark) questions. The paper looks at the relationship between family and social structure and social change. It considers the different types of family groups and how these have changed with time.

Unit 2 Education and Research Methods. The examination is 2 hours and consists of short and longer (20 mark) questions. Education looks at the role of schooling, explanations of class, gender and ethnic achievement ‘gaps’ and the role subcultures play in schools. We examine the extent to which our identity creates our educational success. Research methods gives an introduction to the practical, theoretical and ethical reasons why sociologists choose the research methods they use, and the strengths and limitations of using them. It looks at the issue of how we ‘know’ things to be true.

Unit 3 Beliefs in society and theory and methods.The examination is 1 hour 30 and it consists of short and longer (33 mark) questions. Considers how religion has impacted on society. The theory and methods part of the course focuses on more philosophical issues such as the nature of science. It considers values in sociology, and introduces students to the way in which phenomenologists, postmodernists, and Marxists, for example, interpret the world. It builds on the AS issue of how we ‘know’ things.

Unit 4 Crime and deviance. The examination is 2 hours and consists of short and longer (33 mark) questions. It looks at a range of explanations for why people engage in criminal and deviant behaviour, different patterns of criminal activity and types of criminality, and also some sensitive issues such as suicide.

Sociology is an academic subject, and combines especially well with English, Sociology and the Sciences. We welcome students who have achieved at least B grades in GCSE Science, English Language or Mathematics. These entry requirements reflect the analytical, written and logical skills that are essential for success in A Level Sociology.

Sociologists are trained to think critically about the world around them and to construct clear and logical arguments supported by appropriate evidence. There are many careers where sociology is an important and useful qualification, including professions such as, journalism, the police and the legal profession.

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Spanish AS & A LevelThe A Level Spanish course aims to build on skills acquired at GCSE and develop them further by developing a deeper understanding of Spanish culture and society. The course is designed to facilitate foreign travel, enhance employment prospects and provide a basis for further study in higher education.

Each topic includes the development of written and spoken Spanish. Students will learn the necessary grammar structures and be able to work with a foreign language assistant (Spanish native) to facilitate intercultural communication.

AS

! Media

! Healthy living and lifestyle

! Family & relationships

! Popular Culture

A2

! The multicultural society

! Contemporary social issues

! Environment

! Independent study of two cultural topics (students can choose their area of study )

Some examples of careers using languages are Journalism, Translating and Interpreting, and Education.

It is essential for students embarking on the AS course to have passed the GCSE Higher Tier examination at a grade B or above.

Assessment

AS Unit 1 (listening, reading and writing) 70% of AS grade (35% of A Level)

AS Unit 2 (speaking) 30% of AS grade (15% of A Level)

A2 Unit 3 (listening, reading and writing) 35% of grade

A2 Unit 4 (speaking) 15% of grade

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Travel & Tourism AS & A LevelInterested in developing key business skills? Could you design a marketing campaign for Alton Towers? Could you plan a visit for the class to Paris? Could you identity what Co-op Travel can do to meet the varied needs of their customers? This course helps you to understand how businesses in the Travel and Tourism sector operate and become so successful.

Assessment:

Over two years you will be completing six units of study, the three AS units are:

Unit 1 – Introducing Travel and Tourism (Exam)This unit provides you with essential background knowledge about the scale and scope of the industry.

Unit 2 – Customer Service in Travel and Tourism (Coursework) An essential skill in any business is to meet the needs of customers – can you demonstrate your own ability to do this?

Unit 3 – Travel Destinations (Coursework)You will select and study two destinations in detail (one short haul and one long haul), developing key research skills.

You will be visiting some key businesses in this sector including British Airways and Co-op Travel. There may also be the opportunity to travel abroad, with your study of a destination for unit 3 - so you should be a passport holder.

Travel and Tourism is a dynamic subject and links well with other A Levels such as Geography, Business Studies, Economics, Languages and ICT. You do not need to have studied Travel and Tourism at GCSE, we welcome all students who meet the entry requirements for Level 3 study. You should be aware of the high level of coursework in this subject (66% at AS and A2).

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Vocational Courses BTEC Level 2 Certificate in Travel and TourismThis course is a one year course, aimed at students who do not meet the entry requirements for Level 3 Study and is often completed alongside GCSE re-sit English and Maths. The Travel and Tourism course provides you with a background of essential business skills, which can lead to a range of employment or study opportunities at the end of the year. The course is assessed by a mixture of exams and coursework:

Unit 1: The UK Travel and Tourism Sector (Exam)This unit covers the main types of tourism in the UK, the contribution that travel and tourism makes to the UK economy, and the different component industries that make up the UK travel and tourism sector.

Unit 2: UK Travel and Tourism Destinations (Coursework) This unit covers what the different types of UK destinations have to offer, as well as locating tourist UK destinations and routes.

Unit 4: International Travel and Tourism Destinations (Coursework) This unit looks at international travel and tourism destinations and gateways and reasons for their appeal to different visitors.

Unit 7: Travel and Tourism Business Environments (Exam) This unit looks at a range of businesses, and their structures and functions, in the travel and tourism sector.

Students complete four other optional units which are decided at the start of the course following a discussion between the tutors and the students.

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BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in BusinessThe level 3 Diploma in Business is a new course in Sixth Form, which offers students an opportunity to achieve an A Level equivalent without having to complete examinations. This course is 100% coursework based and allows students to learn many of the same business skills, but in a vocational style of learning. The topics covered include marketing, recruitment and basic business principles such as ownership of a firm.

We operate this Edexcel course which includes six units to be completed over the two year course. These units include; The Business Environment, Business Resources, Introduction to Marketing, Business Communication, Business Accounting and Recruitment and Selection in Business. We begin the course covering basic business principles which will enable students to understand what key choices need to be considered when running a business, such as what type of businesses exist or what financial commitments they may have.

Assessment:

The units covered are:

The Business Environment Candidates are to complete this unit which focuses on completing presentation and website designs to inform about real-life business people they have met. The candidate will report upon business topics and assess how topics such as stakeholders or ownership will impact the firm.

Business ResourcesThis unit focuses on the things that are required to make a business successful. This will include areas such as devising a successful recruitment plan and ensuring there is sufficient knowledge about finance to develop a business idea.

Introduction to Marketing Candidates are required to complete tasks which will demonstrate not only an understanding of marketing, but a strategic plan as to how one could market a product successfully. This will involve thought and consideration of a local firm and researched ideas to make improvements.

To ensure a full qualification at Subsidiary Diploma in Business there are three more units to complete. These are:

Business CommunicationThis unit will witness students completing tasks based around having to consider how communication could be improved in a work environment. This will also consider how structures of staff and technology might be used to ensure they are as effective as possible.

Business AccountingCandidates are required to develop their skills of bookkeeping and record keeping by learning how to understand and make considered recommendations based on a firm’s financial information. This will include creating documents such as profit and loss accounts and balance sheets. Also keeping accounts records will be a skill developed on this unit.

Recruitment and Selection in BusinessThis unit develops on previous knowledge gained in Year 12 units about recruitment. However, here the candidate will have to develop a whole plan as to how to effectively recruit and select an appropriate employee for an organisation. This will consider laws which the candidate will have to learn, as well as practical considerations such as costs and reliability in recruitment methods used.

It is strongly recommended that if you have taken Business at level 2 BTEC Business that you pursue this route to continue an interest in Business. However, if you have not taken Business at any stage before, this is still a qualification which you might be interested in taking. Indeed, one benefit is that this route allows a sensible balance between having exam and coursework commitments, when embarking on the challenges of Sixth Form subjects.

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BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Applied Science (Medical Science)This course is especially suited to those students who wish to continue with a course in Science, but are unsure as to which discipline to specialise in. It is designed to teach the underpinning scientific knowledge and practical techniques necessary for several areas of employment within the Science industry. The qualification provides the opportunity to develop skills and understanding relating to the scientific workplace and would be particularly useful for those wishing to pursue a career as a Science Technician.

Assessment:

The course consists of 6 units spread across two years. In year 12, 3 units of study are completed:

Unit 1 Fundamentals of Science

Unit 2 Working in the science industry

Unit 4 Scientific practical

In year 13, 3 further units of study will be completed. Currently these units are:

Unit 11 Physiology of human body systems

Unit 15 Microbiological techniques

Unit 20 Medical physics techniques

The assessment for this qualification is coursework based, marked at 3 levels: pass, merit and distinction. Each unit will have a points total allocated to it that are added together to give an overall grade for the course. To be successful at this level you must have two C Grades in GCSE Sciences or better, as well as a C grade at GCSE Maths.

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Cambridge Technicals (ICT) – Level 3 Cambridge Technicals (Level 3) is an exciting new qualification that effectively prepares students for working in the world of technology and interactive media. It is a modular course that is comprised of six, equally weighted units. Each unit takes approximately a term to complete and is assessed by your teacher and externally moderated. The units are all practical and you evidence your increasing skill and knowledge level by making practical products using state-of-the-art software.

Students are given the opportunity to refine each unit before final submission and are free from the stress of exams!

Assessment:

The units we cover are listed below:

Unit 1: Communication and employability skills for IT.This unit allows students to understand what an employer expects of an individual and how to communicate effectively while developing their own personal development needs.

Unit 2: Information systemsThis unit will ensure that students have a greater understanding of how organisations use information internally and externally. The skills gained by completing this unit will give students knowledge of the functionality of information and the ability to produce management systems.

Unit 14: Computer animationThis unit allows students to understand different types of animation and their uses. They will gain the knowledge and skills to use software to design and create different types of animation.

This unit will allow students to understand how animations are designed and created in industry for different media.

Unit 9: Project planning with ITThe aim of this unit is to help students understand how projects are managed and to be able to plan a project using IT. They will learn how to follow the

project plan and review the process that they have followed. It is recommended that students choose to develop a plan for a practical project they intend to run, or to achieve other related units within the qualification.

Unit 12: Website productionThis unit will prepare students to design, create and test a fully functioning website, while also providing essential grounding knowledge on the architecture and security issues that need to be considered. Websites need to be well designed to keep visitors returning and avoid excluding user groups by being inaccessible. Companies need to analyse the technical considerations to ensure that they do not hinder the user experience.

(Units 9 and 12 are taught concurrently as one practical project)

Unit 17: Interactive media authoringThis unit focuses primarily on the creation of interactive media products for a range of platforms, such as apps for mobiles or CD/ DVD ROM. There are a range of authoring tools available to use in their production and the creation of its assets. Interactivity can be included in the form of quizzes and games, using scripting languages such as Action Script.

To ensure you have the maximum chances of success in this course, for an entry requirement we ask that you have achieved:

! The OCR Nationals Level 2 qualification (Award - 2 GCSEs) to at least a Merit (B grade) OR

! Edexcel CIDA (2 GCSEs) to at least a Merit grade OR

! ICT GCSE to at least a B grade

! AND C grade Maths and English GCSEs.

This course can be "cashed in" at the end of Year 12 as the equivalent of an AS level or you can opt to complete the remaining three units for the equivalent of an A Level.

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Reaching AheadSixth Form learning provides an exciting next step as you prepare for your future learning in Higher Education or entry into employment. A key strength in our provision is the outstanding quality of information, advice and guidance you will receive as you prepare you for those next steps. Most of our Year 13 students leave The Streetly Academy to begin Higher Education courses and we maintain highly successful links with universities, far and wide, old and new. High quality support is also available for students who want to take up an apprenticeship or secure employment at the end of their A Level courses.

Each year we provide a full range of opportunities to support you in making informed choices, including:

! University open days

! UCAS Higher Education convention

! University Masterclass programme (in association with the West Midlands Excellence Hub)

! Reaching Ahead: Our own Higher Education and World of Work conference

! Personal guidance in preparing your application.

Year 13 (2011-12) DestinationsName Course University or Employment

Dean Allen Jewellery Design Birmingham City University

Luke Beenham Comm Mgmt &Quantity Surveying University of Wolverhampton

Will Bennison Apprenticeship Engineering

George Bentley Mathematics University of Nottingham

Josh Birch Computing/Games Development Staffordshire University

Laura Birckbeck College/Further training Health and Social Care (Deferred)

Christine Broadfield Legal Secretary Course Birmingham Metropolitan College

Beth Burgess Midwifery Year to gain exp. Reapply for midwifery 2013

Emily Capener Supporting Teaching & Learning College and 2 days School placement

Tom Carroll Forensic Science University of Derby

Charlie Caudwell Employment HSBC

Laura Clark French & Spanish/Languages Aston University

Katie Crowther Fashion Marketing & Branding Nottingham Trent University

Ellis Dandy Golf Qualification Teaching Golf abroad

Sophie Dixon Medicine Bristol University

Tom Duggan Geography University of Derby

Chloe Edmonds English Literature Nottingham Trent University

Jodie Edwards Nursing Birmingham Metropolitan College

Sophie Fisher Early childhood studies (Practitioner) Birmingham City University

Nicole Flavel-Avery Adult Nursing Birmingham City University

Jack Flemming Withdrawn Withdrawn

Dylan Fox Sports Development & Coaching Staffordshire University

Joe Geens Sport & Exercise Science Wolverhampton University

Kiran Gill Law Nottingham Trent University

John Goodby History University of Chester

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Alexia Hemming Geography University of Birmingham (deferred). Gap Year

Sophie Hides Seeking employmentTemporary Nursery placement. Seeking apprenticeship in Sales /Bus management

Samantha Holyman French & Hispanic Studies University of Nottingham

Ruth Howson Veterinary Science Deferring application

Rachel Huckfield Children’s Nursing Birmingham City University

Tom Jones Computer Games Technology Birmingham City University

Raj Kang Economics & Finance De Montfort University

Jack Lakin Forensic Science University of Derby

Lowe, Emma Business & Marketing Birmingham City University

Jon Lum Employment Engineering Apprenticeship

Luke Mayo Engineering Apprenticeship Jaguar Landrover Apprenticeship

Becky Mclughen Combined Modern Languages University of Portsmouth

Heidi McManus Psychology Wolverhampton University

Hayley McNally Seeking employment/Sutton College Seeking employment

Lauren Mead Primary Education Newman University College

Amani Milligan Psychology De Montfort University

Laura Murphy Primary Education Wolverhampton University

Matt Nutt Sport & Exercise Science Liverpool Hope University

Gareth Palmer Accountancy Birmingham City University

Joe Parke Physical Activity Exercise & Health Wolverhampton University

Laura Patton Social Work Birmingham City Univerity

Ben Perry Accountancy Apprenticeship Apprenticeship

Megan Phillips Economics University of Sheffield

Isabella Powell English Wolverhampton University

Eve Pritchett English Literature Queens Belfast

Jake Riley Chemistry Bangor University

Sabrina Ruffles Journalism East London

Rachel Sheldon Childhood & Family Studies Wolverhampton University

Lewis Simmons Physics University of Birmingham

Amar Singh Chemical Engineering Aston University

Jake-Lee Smith Archaeology University Central Lancashire(Deferred)Gap Year

Hannah Southall Midwifery Staffordshire University

Tom Strawford ICT apprenticeship Walsall College

Chris Taylor Geography University of Chester

Jack Taylor History & Politics Leicester University

Mitchell Taylor Sport Science University of Worcester

Jack Walker Computer Science & Mathematics University of Keele

Thomas Walsh Maths Nottingham Trent University

George Weaver Mechanical Engineering University of Birmingham

Paul Weston Employment Pets & Gardens Permanent Employment

Willis Oliver Biology University of Keele

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Documents

Streetly Sixth Form Prospectus