Woodrush High School Prospectus 2013 2014

WooDruSH HigH SCHoolAn Academy for Students Aged 11-18

SIXTH FORM PROSPECTUS

2 • Woodrush High School – An Academy for Students Aged 11-18 Sixth Form Prospectus 2013

WElCOME...

Thank you for considering Woodrush Sixth Form and for taking the time to read our prospectus.

As well as learning, we also make sure that we offer our students the opportunity to become involved in social events, work experience and voluntary work. Woodrush is a dynamic and exciting place to be, and this is certainly the view of our current Sixth Formers, some of whom are featured in this prospectus or will be speaking to you at the Sixth Form Open Evening.

For those of you thinking of returning to Woodrush, we have enjoyed working with you in the ‘main school’ and we hope to continue working with you in your new adult role as a Sixth Former at Woodrush. We also warmly welcome applications from students who have attended other secondary schools. We

are a very open and friendly school and I am sure we are the most suitable place for you now that you are embarking on this next phase of your education. Have a look around, talk to our teachers and other students – and I hope you will apply to join us.

We believe that continuing your education with us, or by joining us if you are from another school, will ensure that you get the very best Sixth Form education. We, like you, want you to be very successful and get the best start in life and we look forward to your application to Woodrush.

Mr C King – Headteacher

This is a very exciting time for Woodrush and its Sixth Form. In our last two inspections we were graded Outstanding by Ofsted. Our academic results, facilities and wider support for the Sixth Form have never been better. All of our learners, over the last three years, have either attained their choice of university or have gone into employment. Our students continue to gain places at top universities across the country including Cambridge, Warwick and Birmingham, to name but a few. In addition to our results, the number and variety of courses has never been better and we are delighted to be able to offer a full range of A-Level and vocational courses to suit our students.

Our Sixth Form provides a lively, stimulating and challenging learning environment. We will continue to invest heavily in our Sixth Form in terms of new resources, new equipment and even better learning and recreational facilities. Each year, increasing numbers of our students are choosing to stay in our Sixth Form to work with teachers that they have already forged successful working relationships with. As a school Sixth Form, students get far more individual attention in smaller class sizes than they might in colleges and larger FE providers. We believe this is a key factor in our students’ success in gaining the grades they need to move on in life.

Woodrush High School – An Academy for Students Aged 11-18 Sixth Form Prospectus 2013 • 3

The Sixth Form provides our students with a multitude of opportunities to develop their resourcefulness, organisational skills, resilience, independence and leadership skills. In addition, over the duration of their two years spent with us we want to make sure that all students fulfil their potential and get the grades they need for further study or for their chosen career path. The levels of support we provide aims to ensure that all of our students are fully equipped to meet the demands and challenges of the adult world.

We offer students an extensive range of subjects to study throughout their two year course of study. Students can choose from twenty-five different subjects and select different pathways of study based on either the A-level or BTEC route; or through a combination of both. This means that, with our advice, students can select a combination of subjects best tailored towards their own ability and skillset. It also means that students have more flexibility to opt for subjects that will maximise their chances of being successful over the two year course of study.

Extensive range of opportunitiesHowever, the Sixth Form experience at Woodrush is not just about studying the courses the students have opted for. We also provide an extensive range of enrichment opportunities. In addition to the courses they have chosen to study, we also offer students further qualifications in subjects and schemes like AS General Studies, AS Critical Thinking, the Extended Project Qualification, the Community Sports

Leadership Award and the Duke of Edinburgh Award. Further to this, we also encourage students to become involved in a number of extra-curricular activities and responsibilities. These include helping out with some of our charity and fundraising events; being a mentor for children lower down the school; working as a teaching assistant; working on the Sixth Form newsletter; being a part of the Sixth Form Committee; going on work experience placements and numerous other enrichment opportunities.

Additional specialist supportThe support provided to students in our Sixth Form is second to none. We have a Head of House designated to the Sixth Form to support students with any pastoral or curricular issues. We also operate a vertical tutoring system which provides students with additional support with the subjects they are studying. Each Form group is comprised of students studying similar subjects with a Form tutor at the helm who has specialist knowledge in these subject areas. This ensures that every student has additional specialist support with their studies. Moreover, the general ethos of the school means that students can go to their subject teachers for as much additional support and advice as they need.

In terms of intervention, we have a comprehensive programme of support which enables us to identify where additional support is required for individual students. First and foremost, this includes making sure students are placed on courses that are right for them. We also have a weekly programme that includes supervising students with their

independent study, interviewing students to monitor the progress they are making and devising strategies with students and parents to guarantee that each student fulfils their potential and gets the grades that have been targeted for them.

Another important level of support we offer is ensuring students get extensive support and guidance in terms of what they plan to do after they have left the Sixth Form. Our Student Development Co-ordinator organises trips to University Open Days, career fairs and is on hand to support students with applications, references, personal statements and interviews. This expert advice helps to ensure that all of our students are fully informed and supported with the next steps they take after life in the Sixth Form.

Development and expansionWoodrush Sixth Form is currently going through an exciting phase of development and expansion. Last year saw our largest ever intake of students into the Sixth form and we want to continue building on this. During the time you spend with us we want to make sure you feel valued and confident that you have the opportunity to fulfil your potential. It is also important for us that you feel part of a community where you are happy and secure, yet inspired to get involved. Woodrush Sixth Form is a stimulating, supportive and inspiring environment for you to continue your further education studies in. We are already looking forward to meeting the new cohort of students intending to join us for the new academic year in September 2013 and we welcome your application.

Mr M Sullivan – Head of Sixth Form

The primary aim of Woodrush Sixth Form is to help students with all aspects of their personal development and academic progress.


Woodrush Sixth FormEmbarking upon your Sixth Form study is a huge step, whether you are studying A-Levels or BTECs.

Full time education is no longer compulsory; it is something you have chosen to do in order to further your learning and enhance your future. You may not yet know what it is that you wish to do when you finish your Further Education study, or you might already be certain of your plans for future employment or Higher Education. Either way, at Woodrush we are here to support you in whatever ways we can.

Woodrush offers a comprehensive range of qualifications and we hope that there is something here for you. Our Level 3 qualifications are routes into University and include A Levels and BTECs. A full A Level takes 2 years and is comprised of the AS Level in Year 12 and the ‘top-up’ A2 Level in Year 13.

So far, you have been used to 25 hours of compulsory lessons every week, plus homework. Now, if you are taking four ‘AS’ Levels, you will have about 16 hours of lessons and 4 hours of compulsory study time. Quite clearly, your 16 hours of lessons is only the beginning of your study. For every hour you spend in a lesson you should spend at least one extra hour of your own time on that subject. This could be preparatory reading, revising and consolidating your understanding of work covered in class, research, writing essays or completing coursework.

The whole place feels like a really nice community. I have also found the support really good and I like that I can go to teachers whenever I like for advice and help.

Jay

Everyone is here to study and we are all in that frame of mind.

Lucy

a COMPREHEnSIvE RangE OF qUalIFICaTIOnS


laura Hennessey Jack Checketts

Information, advice and guidanceMr Cooper is the Sixth Form’s dedicated member of staff to advise students in post-18 education, employment, careers, UCAS applications, student bursaries and student finance.

Mr Cooper will:•Provide drop in sessions for students requiring information

and advice.•Be available at Parents’ Evenings for consultations.•Provide information and advice about career opportunities

and University applications.•Offer one to one interviews for students identified by the Head

of Sixth Form and tutors as requiring guidance regarding their choices of Higher or Further Education courses.

•Organise and arrange visits to University Open Days, Higher Education Conventions and career fairs.

in addition to this support, we also:•Closely monitor students’ progress and provide timely and

prompt information to parents.•Hold weekly study support sessions and develop

personalised learning strategies for individual students in need of additional support.

•Deliver workshops on study skills and revision techniques.•Invite speakers and guests to advise on matters such as

student finance and ‘Oxbridge’ applications (etc)

It’s a really friendly place and you know that the teachers want you to do well and give you lots of support.

Mark

The Sixth Form CommitteeThe Sixth Form Committee is an important decision making body in the Sixth Form. The Committee is comprised of several members who all have select roles, including: Head Boy, Head Girl, Deputy Head Boy, Deputy Head Girl, Charity/Fundraising Directors, Social Events Co-ordinators and Student liaison to Lower School. The Committee meets frequently throughout the course of the academic year to discuss and organise a wide range of events and initiatives for the Sixth Form. The Committee is also important in terms of representing student voice in the Sixth Form. It is vital that the Sixth Form have their say in terms of further improvements and developments they would like to see made. The Sixth Form Committee ensures that these views are represented and implemented where facilities, social events, trips, fundraising/charity events and other initiatives are concerned.

The Committee is chaired by the Sixth Form Head Boy and Head Girl. In July of each academic year several candidates take part in a high profile election campaign to run for election to these roles. This year’s Head Boy and Head Girl are...


FacilitiesWe are proud of the facilities we are able to offer to our Sixth Form. As well as having use of the other facilities around the school, the Sixth Form Centre is a designated area in the school for the students to use recreationally and for their studies.

The Sixth Form Centre was refurbished two years ago and consists of a Common Room and a Study Room. The Common Room has a multitude of functions. Primarily, the Common Room is an area for students to socialise in, but the area can also be used as an additional study area. The Common Room has an expansive seating area, a hot drinks machine and a wall mounted wide screen television.

There are plans to add other recreational facilities to this area over the course of the year. The Study Room is a purpose built study area for the students to work in. There is wireless internet access in this area as well as ICT facilities for the students to use.

A new addition to the Study Room this year is a resource library that consists of various materials to support students in applications to further education courses and other career pathways.

a dESIgnaTEd aREa In THE SCHOOl...

I’ve settled in well. I love the fact that you can pick the subjects you want to do. I’ve also enjoyed making use of the Sixth Form centre facilities.

Kerry


Other important informationlessons and registrationYour timetable will be very different than it was whilst studying your GCSE’s. You will have approximately 17-21 lessons in any week, which gives you time to complete further study in your none contact time. All lessons are compulsory and we expect all students to attend registration each day. All the courses we offer are very focused; missing even one lesson can affect your chances of doing well.

Dress codeYou have the right to wear your own clothes, not the school uniform. However, we do have a dress code and this states you should be smart and not wear anything that anyone could deem offensive or inappropriate. No ear plugs or large earings are to be worn. Sports wear is not allowed except for PE. Younger students should see you as good role models and visitors should view you as the best that Woodrush has to offer.

There’s greater familiarity with staff and good advice about your future..

Lewis

life outside the classroom

The Woodrush Sixth Form experience is not just about what happens in the classroom. We want to make sure that every student has a range of enrichment and personal development activities that they can participate in around the school and in the wider community. Some of these opportunities include:•Additional qualifications in: AS General Studies, AS Critical Thinking, Extended

Project Qualification and Community Sports Leadership Award.•Continuation of the Duke of Edinburgh programme (many Year 12 students are

working towards their Gold Award this year).•Being part of the editorial team for the Sixth Form newsletter (‘The Sixth’).•Working as a mentor for children lower down the school.•Organising and supporting fundraising events for charities like ‘Children in

Need’ and ‘Macmillan Cancer Support’.•Gaining experience as a Teaching Assistant.•Attending University organised courses and open days.•Completing work experience placements linked to possible career pathways.•Helping with STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering a Maths) club.•Numerous social outings (theatre, cinema, outdoor activity centres – etc)•Going on a range of school trips and residentials (this year alone the Sixth Form

can look forward to trips to New York, Switzerland (CERN visit), the House of Parliament, the Gadget Show, the Clothes Show, sightseeing tour of London – etc.)


“This is an outstanding school with a small, improving and increasingly successful Sixth Form.”

“Care, guidance and support are outstanding, ensuring students feel very safe within a calm yet vibrant atmosphere.”

“… curriculum initiatives are paying off, with improvements in progress. With much improved teaching and excellent personal development, current progress is good.”

“…students express a high degree of satisfaction with their experience here.”

“The ethos is to serve and be supportive of others….Woodrush provides them with the opportunity to achieve and be successful.”

“Many progress well in the Sixth Form, going on to higher academic institutions of repute. A student said, ‘you can do as well as you want to here. The support is fantastic.”

“…students who choose to come to Woodrush sixth form do so because they already love their school. Others do so because it affords them a highly personal experience, where courses are offered when interests are expressed and there is an outstanding level of support for a wide range of abilities.”

“The curriculum is beginning to develop a more tailored approach, offering opportunities for courses to be designed across qualifications, both academic and vocational.”

THIS IS an OUTSTandIng SCHOOl Ofsted Report October 2010

What Ofsted had to say about our Sixth Form...


What some of this year’s new Year 12 students have had to say about their first few weeks in the Sixth Form...

Kerry Jay Mark lewis lucy

Studying Photography, Film Studies and Art.

Studying History, Business Studies, Government and Politics and English Language and Literature.

Studying Maths, Physics, Photography and Product Design)

Studying Chemistry, Psychology, English Language and Literature and History.

Studying Biology, Chemistry, Sociology and English Language and Literature.

Why have you decided to continue your post-16 studies at Woodrush Sixth form?

The teachers are really helpful and I knew that I would get more support than if I went elsewhere. I also know the environment and I am local to the area. Also, a lot of my friends have stayed on in the Sixth form.

Well, all my friends decided to come and I know the teachers are all good. I also live locally and the school is really easy to get to.

I knew I would get more support and attention. I also know the teachers and I have already formed relationships with them.

I wanted to build on the past successes I have had here. I also feel familiar with the place and I feel comfortable with the teachers. I was also concerned that if I went elsewhere it might not be as easy to get one on one support from staff.

I am a Woodrush student and wanted to stay. Teachers also know my strengths and weaknesses and know how to get the best out of me. It’s also clearly an ‘outstanding school’.

How have you settled into the Sixth form?

I’ve settled in well. I love the fact that you can pick the subjects you want to do. I’ve also enjoyed making use of the Sixth Form centre facilities and I’ve also noticed that the teachers act slightly differently towards me. They were friendly anyway, but now they seem even friendlier.

Great yeah! I know a lot of the people here, which is a real benefit. In fact, I have formed friendships with students that I didn’t really know in Year 11. The whole place feels like a really nice community. I have also found the support really good and I like that I can go to teachers whenever I like for advice and help.

Very well. At the start it was a bit overwhelming, but I’ve quickly settled. Having already been a student in Woodrush, I know the staff and I know my way around, which has made it easier to settle in. It has also helped that the teachers are good and that I have been able to form new friendships.

I’ve settled in quicker than I thought I would. I’ve found it really easy to quickly establish a schedule that will benefit my studies. I also find it a really friendly atmosphere; lots of my friends have stayed on and the Year 13s have been friendly and helpful. The facilities here are useful and it’s great having a separate study area.

Good. Everyone merges together. Everyone is here to study and we are all in that frame of mind. Teachers have also been really helpful in making me feel settled. I also find that I now talk to people that I didn’t really know in Year 11. Everyone just seems to get along really well.

Would you recommend the Sixth form for the current Year 11s?

Yes, I would recommend you join the Sixth form. It’s a really supportive environment, you feel familiar with the school and the staff, and it’s really reassuring that you know you can continue with the successes you have achieved lower down the school.

If you want good teachers... yes! If you want good grades... yes!

Definitely! It’s a really friendly place and you know that the teachers want you to do well and give you lots of support.

Yes, definitely! It will help them continue to be successful in their studies. There’s greater familiarity with staff and good advice about your future.

Definitely! You can see how the Sixth form is improving and getting better all the time. I know I have definitely made the right decision.


level 2 qualificationsLevel 2 GCSE’s

Maths (Re-take) Other Level 2 or GCSE qualifications

may be available upon request

English (Re-take)

Statistics

level 3 qualificationsLevel 3 BTEC Courses

(Award= 1 A level)Level 3 BTEC Courses

(Certificate = 2 A Levels)

Applied Science Art & Design

Performing Arts

ICT

Enrichment CoursesAS Level General Studies

AS Level Critical Thinking

Extended Project Qualification

Community Sports Leadership Award

Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme

Pathways

Pathway 1 – 40 Points2, 3 or 4 Level 3 BTEC courses* and 1

Group B enrichment Course

Pathway 2 – 42 PointsA combination of 4 Level 3 BTEC

courses and Group B A-Levels and 1 enrichment course

Pathway 3 – 42 Points A combination of 3 or 4 Group B

A-Levels and 1 enrichment course

Pathway 4 – 44 PointsA combination of 4 Group A/B A-Levels

and 1 enrichment course

Courses Band A Band B Band C Band D Band E

Pathway 1 & 2 (BTEC’s)

Btec ICT Btec Science Btec PA Btec Art Btec Art

Pathway 2, 3 & 4 (Group B A-Levels)

Geography English Lit Lang

English Lit Spanish Film Studies

Photography Textiles Graphics French Art

Health & Soc BIS Music Sociology History

PE

Pathway 4 Only (Group A A-Levels)

Chemistry Physics Biology Maths Further Mat

Gov’t & Politics Psychology

OUR RangE OF COURSESlevel 3 a levels

Group A 44 Average KS4 Points

Biology Mathematics

Chemistry Further Maths

English Lit Lang Physics

Gov’t & Politics Psychology

Sociology

Group B 42 Average KS4 Points

Art Geography Photography

BIS Government & Politics

Product Design

English Lit Health & Social Spanish

Film Studies History Textiles

French MFL

History PE

*We do have the flexibility to move courses to another band, to meet the needs of the majority of learners, if clashes arise from this banding. There is also an option to add a second group if demand and staffing allows. This will take place in Spring Term once choices are made and as long as it doesn’t affect any other learners choices.


Business and ICT Faculty

iCT BTEC

Title of course: BTEC Information Technology Level 3

Exact Qualification: BTEC

Awarding Body: EDEXCEL

Duration of Course: 2 year

Entry: Grade C in GCSE ICT and at least a C in English

Assessment & Subject ContentCoursework based learning:• There are 2 mandatory modules• Communication and employability skills for IT• Computer Systems• Plus 4 optional units from a range of topics

BiS AS

Title of course: Business Studies

Exact Qualification: AS Level

Awarding Body: AQA

Duration of Course: 1 Years (1st year of full A level)

Entry: English Lit/Lang and Maths GCSE grade C

Assessment & Subject Content2 written examinations based on:• Planning and Financing a Business• Starting a Business • Financial Planning • Managing a Business• Finance • People in Business • Operations Management Marketing and Competition

BiS A2

Title of course: Business Studies

Exact Qualification: A2 Level

Awarding Body: AQA

Duration of Course: 1 Years (2nd year of full A level)

Entry: Business Studies AS grade E or better

Assessment & Subject Content2 written examinations based on:• Strategies for Success• The Business Environment and Change

Subject Information and Entry Requirements


Creative arts Faculty

BTEC Art & Design

Title of course: Art & Design

Exact Qualification: BTEC Level 3 Diploma

Awarding Body: Edexcel

Duration of Course: 2 Years

Entry: GCSE Art Grade C

Assessment & Subject Content:100% coursework – sketchbooks and final outcomes. • 12 units of work covering a wide range of processes,

materials and taking inspiration from a variety of stimuli.

• You will be following a programme which will offer a wide range of experience of Art and Design practice, including Photography, Fine Art, Graphic Design, Digital Media, Three Dimensional Design, Fashion and Textile Design

BTEC Performing Arts

Title of course: BTEC Performing Arts

Exact Qualification: Level 3 BTEC National Award (equivalent to 1 ‘A’ Level)


Duration of Course: 2 years

Entry: GCSE Drama Grade C

Assessment & Subject Content:• Assessed on practical work and a portfolio.• This is a very ‘hands on’ course and will allow you to

learn about the performing arts industries as well as giving you the chance to develop your skills as a dancer, actor, director, script writer or designer.

• There are two core units on acting and performance and then you specialise in key areas – in other words choose what you want to do!

Art & Design AS



Awarding Body: AQA


Entry: GCSE Art Grade B

Assessment & Subject Content:• 60% coursework – sketchbooks and final outcomes.

Work covering a wide range of processes, materials and taking inspiration from a variety of stimuli.

• 40% exam – response to an exam question, 3 weeks minimum preparation time.

• AS exam 5 hours

Art & Design A2



Awarding Body: AQA

Duration of Course: 1 Year (2nd year of full A level)

Entry: AS grade of grade E or better

Assessment & Subject Content:• 60% personal investigation; coursework of sketchbooks

and final outcomes. Work covering a range of processes, materials and techniques, taking inspiration from a variety of stimuli. Students submit once major project that has a personal significance. The investigation includes a related personal study that must be between 1000-3000 words.


• A2 exam 15 hours


Creative arts Faculty

Photography AS

Title of course: Photography


Awarding Body: AQA


Entry: GCSE Art/Photography Grade B

Assessment & Subject Content:• 60% coursework – You will study and analyse the work

of photographers and artists and use this to inspire and influence your own work. You will also learn about the theory of photography and will have many opportunities to put it all into practice on location, in the studio and in the darkroom. Students will develop their imaginative and creative powers, analytical, documenting, research and writing skills.


• AS exam 5 hours

AS Music

Title of course: Music



Duration of Course: 1 year followed by A2 Course

Entry: Grade B (merit on BTEC ) plus grade 4 practical and good theory

Assessment & Subject Content:• Students will develop performance skills (solo and/or

ensemble), compose music and learn about harmony (the basics at AS and stylistic studies at A2).

• They will build up their aural and analytical skills by studying selections from the ‘New Anthology of Music’

Photography A2

Title of course: Photography


Awarding Body: AQA

Duration of Course: 1 Year (2nd year of full A level)

Entry: AS grade of grade E or better

Assessment & Subject Content:• 60% personal investigation; Students will further

develop their imaginative and creative powers, analytical, documenting, research and writing skills. They will be introduced to advanced darkroom skills and further studio work. Students will submit one major project that has a personal significance. The investigation includes a related personal study that must be between 1000-3000 words.


• A2 exam 15 hours

A2 Music

Title of course: Music




Entry: AS grade of E or better

Assessment & Subject Content:• Students will develop performance skills (solo and/or

ensemble), compose music and learn about harmony (the basics at AS and stylistic studies at A2).

• They will build up their aural and analytical skills by studying selections from the ‘New Anthology of Music’.


English Faculty

English lit & lang AS

Title of course: Literature & Language

Exact Qualification: AS level

Awarding Body: AQA Spec B

Duration of Course: 1 year (1st year of full A level)

Entry: A grade B or above in English Literature and/or Language GCSE

Assessment & Subject Content:60 % Examination and 40% Coursework.Examination:• Anthology – students will explore significant features

of the writers’/speakers’ uses of language in relation to the given theme.

• Analysis of an unseen text.

Coursework:• Comparison of writers’ approaches and methods in two

texts.• Production of a piece of creative writing in relation to

the set texts and theme,

English lit & lang A2

Title of course: Literature & Language

Exact Qualification: A2 level

Awarding Body: AQA Spec B

Duration of Course: 1 year (2nd year of full A level)

Entry: Grade E or better in AS Literature/Language

Assessment & Subject Content:60% Examination and 40% Coursework:Examination:• The study of a play in terms of spoken language.• Comparison of two thematically linked unseen texts:

one transcript and one extract from a literary work.

Coursework:• Transformation of two set texts and associated

commentary writing demonstrating an understanding of the creative process.

English literature AS

Title of course: English Literature


Awarding Body: AQA


Entry: A grade C, but preferably B or above in English Literature GCSE

Assessment & Subject Content:• Exam and coursework for both years of course.

Subjects Studied Include:• WW1 Literature • Poetry • Plays• Prose

English literature A2

Title of course: English Literature


Awarding Body: AQA


Entry: Grade E or better in AS Literature

Assessment & Subject Content:Exam and coursework for both years of course.

Subjects Studied:• Love through the Ages (from Chaucer to modern day)-

including:• Poetry • Drama• Prose

For the A2 coursework, students write a comparative essay including a Shakespeare text.


English Faculty

Film Studies AS

Title of course: Film Studies


Awarding Body: WJEC


Entry: C or above in English Literature and/or Language GCSE

Assessment & Subject Content• 40% coursework/60% examination

Units covered include:• Exploring Film Form – film analysis• A creative storyboard or film making project• Topics in British Film• US film: a comparative study

Film Studies A2

Title of course: Film Studies


Awarding Body: WJEC


Entry: Grade E or better in AS Film Studies

Assessment & Subject Content50% coursework/50% examination

Units covered include:• A small scale research project• A creative project (writing a screenplay or creating a

short film)• World Cinema Topics• Spectator Topics• Single Film-Critical Study

Humanities Faculty

geography AS

Title of course: Geography


Awarding Body: AQA

Duration of Course: One Year (1st year of full A Level)

Entry: Year 12 – Minimum GCSE Grade C in Geography

Assessment & Subject Content: Unit 1 – Physical and Human Geography – Rivers, Coasts, Population change & Health Issues• 70% of AS / 35% OF A2 – 2hr Written examination

(120 marks – Structured Short and extended questions)

Unit 2 – Geographical Skills • 30% of AS / 15% OF A2 – 1hr Written examination

based on fieldwork carried out during the year (50 marks – Structured skills and generic fieldwork questions)

geography A2

Title of course: Geography


Awarding Body: AQA

Duration of Course: One Year (2nd year of full A level)

Entry: Year 13 – Grade A-E on AS Course

Assessment & Subject Content:Unit 3 – Contemporary Geographical Issues – Plate Tectonics, Ecosystems: Change and Challenge, World Cities & Conflicts and Challenges • 30% of A level – 2hr 30min Written Examination

(90 marks in total – structured short and extended questions, plus a 40 mark essay)

Unit 4 – Geographical Skills • 20% of A level – 1hr 30min Written Examination (60

marks – short structured and extended questions based on candidates fieldwork and geographical skills)


Humanities Faculty

History AS

Title of course: History


Awarding Body: OCR

Duration of Course: One Year (1st year of full A level)

Entry: Minimum GCSE Grade C in History and English

Assessment & Subject ContentTwo examinations based on the topics of:• Foreign & Imperial Policy: Britain 1945-90• Germany: Democracy and Dictatorship 1933-61

History A2

Title of course: History


Awarding Body: OCR

Duration of Course: One Year (2nd year of full A level)

Entry: 100 marks on AS Course

Assessment & Subject ContentExam and coursework based on:• Russia and its Rulers, 1855-64 • Two pieces of coursework. • Individual study (candidate’s own choice)• Pre-chosen topic – The Causes of WWII 1918-41.

Psychology AS

Title of course: Psychology


Awarding Body: AQA

Duration of Course: One Year (1st year of full A Level)

Entry: B grade (or equivalent) in English, Maths and the Sciences

Assessment & Subject ContentExaminations Based on the Topics of:• Memory • Attachment in development• Stress and stress management• Abnormal behaviour• Obedience and conformity• Research methods

Psychology A2

Title of course: Psychology


Awarding Body: AQA

Duration of Course: One Year (2nd year of full A Level)

Entry: Minimum AS Grade E in Psychology

Assessment & Subject ContentExaminations based on the topics of:• Anti-social and pro-social behaviour• Personality and Social Development• Biological rhythms and sleep• Relationships• Mental disorders• Research methods

Sociology AS

Title of course: Sociology


Awarding Body: AQA

Duration of Course: One year (1st year of full A level)

Entry: GCSE English and English Literature Grade B

Assessment & Subject ContentExaminations based on the topics of:• Families and households• Education• Research methods in Sociology

Sociology A2

Title of course: Sociology


Awarding Body: AQA

Duration of Course: One year (2nd year of full A Level)

Entry: A pass (grade E or above) in AS level Sociology is required to proceed to the A2 course

Assessment & Subject ContentExaminations based on the topics of:• Beliefs in Society• Crime and deviance• Research methods in Sociology


gov’t & Politics AS

Title of course: Government and Politics



Duration of Course: One year (1st year of full A Level)

Entry: Minimum GCSE Grade C in a Humanities subject (History or Geography) and English

Assessment & Subject Content:• Unit 1: People and Politics• Unit 2: Governing the UK

gov’t & Politics A2

Title of course: Government and Politics


Awarding Body:


Entry: A pass (grade E or above) in AS Government and Politics

Assessment & Subject Content• Unit 3: Key Themes in Political Analysis• Unit 4: Extended Themes in Political Analysis

Health & Soc AS

Title of course: Health & Social Care



Duration of Course: 1 year (1st year of full A Level)

Entry: GCSE Health and Social Care Grade C or above

Assessment & Subject Content• 40% Externally assessed / 60% internally assessed• Unit 1: Human Growth and Development (externally

assessed)• Unit 2: Communication and Values (internally assessed)• Unit 3: Positive Care Environments (internally assessed)

Health & Soc A2

Title of course: Health & Social Care



Duration of Course: 1 year (2nd year of full A Level)

Entry: Grade D or above at AS Level

Assessment & Subject Content:• 40% Externally assessed / 60% internally assessed• Unit 6: Meeting Individual Needs (externally assessed)• Unit 7: Promoting Health and Wellbeing (internally

assessed)• Unit 8: Investigating Disease (internally assessed)

A2 Physical Education

Title of course: Physical Education


Awarding Body: AQA

Duration of Course: 1 year (2nd Year of Full A-Level)

Entry: Grade D or above at AS

Assessment & Subject Content• Unit 3 30% of the total A Level marks• Optimising performance and evaluating contemporary

issues within sport – Examined by a two hour written paper.

• Unit 4 20% of the total A Level marks. • Optimising practical performance in a competitive

situation – candidates perform, analyse and evaluate their own performance, identify weaknesses and suggest causes and appropriate corrective measures in one role as a performer, coach or official in one sport.

Physical Education Faculty

AS Physical Education

Title of course: Physical Education


Awarding Body: AQA

Duration of Course: 1 year (1st Year of Full A-Level)

Entry: GCSE grade B or above in Physical Education and a grade B in English Language

Assessment & Subject Content• Unit 1 60% of the total AS marks, 30% of total A Level

marks.• Healthy and active lifestyle including Applied Exercise

Physiology, Skill Acquisition and Opportunities for Participation – Examined by a two hour written paper.

• Unit 2 40% of total AS marks, 20% of total A Level marks. • Analysis and evaluation of physical activity in two out of

three roles as performer, official or coach in one or two activities.


Mathematics Faculty

Mathematics AS

Title of course: Mathematics




Entry: For AS Mathematics – GCSE Mathematics Grade B

Assessment & Subject Content100% examination of 3 modules:• C1 taken in January of year 12 • C2 and D1 taken in June of year 12• C1 & C2 is Core Maths which includes the topics of

Algebra, Trigonometry, Coordinate Geometry, Sequences and new topics such as Differentiation, Integration and Logarithms.

• D1 is Decision Mathematics which looks at numerical methods that can be used to solve problems in computing, business and industry.

Mathematics A2

Title of course: Mathematics

Exact Qualification: A2Level



Entry: For continuation to A2 – At least an E grade overall at AS which should include at least E grades in 2 out of the 3 AS modules

Assessment & Subject Content100% examination of 3 modules:• C3 taken in January of year 13• C4 and S1 taken in June of year 13• C3 & C4 is Core Maths which includes a continuation of

AS topics together with new topics such as Numerical Methods.

• S1 is Statistics which involves collecting and interpreting data using a variety of statistical techniques.

Further Maths AS

Title of course: Further Mathematics



Duration of Course: 2 years – half an AS done each year of KS5

Entry: GCSE Mathematics Grade B and taking A level Mathematics

Assessment & Subject Content100% examination of 3 modules:• M1 taken in June of year 12• M2 taken in January of year 13• FP1 taken in June of year 13• M1 and M2 are Mechanics which involve mathematical

modelling used to help solve real life problems in Dynamics and Statics.

• FP1 is Further Pure Mathematics which gives you an insight into concepts and methods not included at A level.


Modern Foreign languages Faculty

French AS

Title of course: French


Awarding Body: AQA


Entry: GCSE Grade BHigher Tier Entry: in all elements of exam.

Assessment & Subject Content• 100% exam: Speaking 30%• Listening, reading & writing 70%

Topics examined include:• Media• Culture• Family• Health

French A2

Title of course: French


Awarding Body: AQA

Duration of Course: One year (full A Level is two years)

Entry: AS Grade D


Topics examined include:• The environment• Multicultural Society• Cultural Aspects

Spanish AS

Title of course: Spanish


Awarding Body: AQA


Entry: GCSE Grade BHigher Tier Entry: in all elements of exam.


Topics examined include:• Media• Culture• Family• Health

Spanish A2

Title of course: Spanish


Awarding Body: AQA

Duration of Course: One year (full A Level is two years)

Entry: AS Grade D


Topics examined include:• The environment• Multicultural Society• Cultural Aspects


Science Faculty

Biology AS

Title of course: Biology


Awarding Body: OCR


Entry: A* – B in Core and Additional Science, or single subject Biology

Assessment & Subject Content• 80% written examination• 20% Internally assessed coursework

Topics examined include:• Cells• Exchange and Transport• Biological Molecules• Food and Health• Biodiversity and Evolution

Biology A2

Title of course: Biology


Awarding Body: OCR


Entry: Grade E or higher in AS Biology


Topics examined include:• Nervous and Endocrine systems• Excretion• Photosynthesis and Respiration• Cell division• Genes and Genetic Engineering• Ecosystems and Sustainability• Responses to stimuli and Behaviour

Applied Science BTEC

Title of course: Level 3 Applied Science

Exact Qualification: Level 3 Advanced Subsidiary Diploma in Applied Science


Duration of Course: 2 years

Entry: A* – C in Core and Additional Science, or Level 2 BTEC Science Merit or Distinction

Assessment & Subject Content• 100% Internally assessed coursework • (6 coursework units)

Units followed include:• Fundamentals of Science• Working in the Science Industry• Scientific Practical Techniques• Physiology of Human Body Systems• Genetics and Genetic Engineering• Science for Environmental Technicians


Chemistry AS

Title of course: Chemistry


Awarding Body: OCR


Entry: A* – B in Core and Additional Science, or single subject Chemistry and A* – B in Mathematics


Topics examined includes:• Formulae, equations and amounts of substances• Energetics• Atomic structure and the periodic table• Bonding

Chemistry A2

Title of course: Chemistry


Awarding Body: OCR


Entry: Grade E or higher in AS Chemistry


Topics examined include:• Organic Chemistry• Shapes of molecules• Redox• Kinetics• Reaction mechanisms

Physics AS

Title of course: Physics


Awarding Body: OCR


Entry: A* – B in Core and Additional Science, or single subject Physics and A* – A in Mathematics

Assessment & Subject Content:• 80% written examination• 20% Internally assessed coursework

Topics examined include:• Motion• Forces in action• Work and Energy• Electric current• Circuits

Physics A2

Title of course: Physics


Awarding Body: OCR


Entry: Grade E or higher in AS Physics


Topics examined include:• Work and Energy• Electric current• Circuits• Waves• Quantum Physics


Technology Faculty

Product Design AS

Title of course: Product Design


Awarding Body: OCR


Entry: GCSE English grade C or betterGCSE Design & Technology grade C or better

Assessment & Subject Content• 50% examination • 50% coursework • Topics examined depend on the area of product design

chosen

Product Design A2

Title of course: Product Design


Awarding Body: OCR


Entry: AS Grade E or better

Assessment & Subject Content• 50% examination • 50% coursework • Topics examined depend on the area of product design

chosen

Fashion/Textiles Design AS

Title of course: Fashion/Textiles Design


Awarding Body: AQA


Entry: GCSE English grade C or above

Assessment & Subject Content • 50% examination • 50% coursework • Candidates study and work with a variety of fabrics and

components used in the design and making of textile products. They work in both two and three dimensional forms. Candidates gain an understanding of industrial and commercial practices within the area of design and manufacture:

• Unit 1 (TEXT1) Materials, Components and Application• Unit 2 (TEXT2) Learning Through Designing and Making

Fashion/Textiles Design A2

Title of course: Fashion/Textiles Design


Awarding Body: AQA


Entry: AS Grade E or above

Assessment & Subject Content• 50% examination • 50% coursework • The specification offers candidates the opportunity to

further develop the knowledge and practical skills from AS. Candidates continue to design and manufacture textile products alongside an understanding of the processes and procedures of commercial textile manufacture:• Unit 3 (TEXT3) Design and Manufacture • Unit 4 (TEXT4) Design and Making Practice


Enrichment Courses

AS general Studies

Title of course: General Studies


Awarding Body: AQA

Duration of Course: 1 or 2 years

Entry: Group A – 44 Points

Assessment & Subject ContentStudents sit 2 exams in each year studying the following topics:• Culture and Society• Science and Society• Students will also take an exam based on pre released

subject material

AS Critical Thinking

Title of course: Critical Thinking


Awarding Body: AQA

Duration of Course: 1 or 2 years

Entry: Group A – 44 Points

Assessment & Subject ContentStudents sit 2 exams in each year studying the following topics:• Critical Thinking Foundation Unit• Information, Inference and Explanation• Beliefs Claims and arguments• Reasoning and Decision Making

Arts Award

Title of course: Arts Awards

Exact Qualification: Bronze, Silver & Gold

Awarding Body: Trinity

Duration of Course: Flexible

Entry: None

Assessment & Subject Content• A portfolio of evidence: It is 100% coursework.• Any area of the arts can be studied. Young people have

achieved Arts Awards in acting, architecture, circus arts, composing, dance, exhibition curating, fashion, film, graffiti art, hip hop, journalism, multi-media design, painting, poetry, radio, sculpture, technical theatre...and more

CSlA

Title of course: Sports Leadership (CSLA)

Exact Qualification: Level 2 Award in Community Sports Leadership

Awarding Body: Sports Leaders UK

Duration of Course: 35 hours guided learning and 10 hours sports leadership within the community

Entry: A leadership qualification for people aged 16 upwards who wish to deliver sports activities within their community

Assessment & Subject Content• In order to achieve a sports leaders qualification the

student must be able to achieve the learning outcomes specified for each unit.

• Assessment is carried out on a continuous basis with students having the opportunity to be assessed as and when they reach the required level.

• The course consists of eight different units of work which includes a minimum of 10hrs voluntary work.

EPQ

Title of course: Extended Project Qualification

Exact Qualification: Level 3 Qualification (Equivalent to an AS qualification

Awarding Body: AQA – City and Guilds


Entry: Interest in a particular subject that they would like to develop outside of the classroom

Assessment & Subject ContentStudents are required to:• Plan, research and carry out the project• Provide evidence of all stages of project production• Deliver a presentation to a specialised audience• Evidence could be in the form of – model, CD/Video/

DVD performance, multimedia presentation, journal, PowerPoint presentation, a photographic record of the project.

All photographs taken by A-level Photography students

HeadteacherMr C King MSc, PGCE, NPQH

Deputy HeadteachersMr S Baker BH (Hons), PGCE, NPQHMs. N Rancins BSc (Hons) grad. Inst. P. PGCE

Assistant HeadteachersMr D Monk BSc (Hons) PGCEMs E Lawson BA (Hons) PGCEMs S Taylor BA (Hons) PGCE

Business ManagerMs J Rossiter

Head of Sixth FormContact: Mr M SullivanEmail: [email protected]: 7314

KS5 Student Development Co-ordinatorContact: Mr CooperEmail: [email protected]: 7153

Sixth Form Head of HouseContact: Ms AshmanEmail: [email protected]: 7314

Address:Woodrush High School and Sixth FormAn Academy for Students Aged 11-18Shawhurst LaneWythallWorcestershireB47 5JW

Telephone: 01564 823777Fax: 01564 820092Email: [email protected]

Documents

Woodrush High School Prospectus 2013 2014