Archaeology

German

Art and Design

Government and Politics

Biology

History

Business Studies

Mathematics - Single Subject

Chemistry

Mathematics - Further

Classical Civilisation

Music

Computing

Physics

Design Technology

Sociology

English Literature

Sports Studies

French

Theatre Studies

Geography

AS Level may be available in Mathematics; please look under A-Level subject details. In addition, we may be able to offer some GCSE courses for those wishing to broaden their studies, e.g. Archaeology (one year) or Latin (two years).

You will normally be expected to choose three or possibly four Advanced Level subjects from the list above. Very occasionally, in response to a problem, we are able to access a subject at Highsted not offered at another school, so if you have a real dilemma, discuss it with Mrs Sakaria.

Research your options carefully, using the careers provision and the advice of your subject teachers. There is no such thing as an easy A-Level but some will suit your strengths and ambitions better than others. If in doubt, try to find a logical combination which includes subjects you enjoy, because you will often work harder on these. Some careers need specific subjects, but others accept graduates from a wide range of courses, and employers often mind less about the subject combination than they do about your total achievement and character.

This is based on your needs and staff advice, but you should be aware of these points:

The main areas studied are:

1. Principles, methods and chief discoveries of archaeology.
1. The archaeology of the British Isles from the earliest times to post-Medieval periods. (selected sections only).
1. An individual project involving field study.

Is by external examinations at the end of the course and one piece of coursework.

A wide variety of different formal and informal teaching strategies are used including:

• Visiting excavations, museum exhibitions, local buildings such as churches, the local landscape
• Handling and recording/drawing different types of artefacts. e.g. pottery, flint, glassware
• Using OS Maps Plans, Section Drawings, Aerial and Site Photographs and Reconstruction Illustrations
• Using written resources, site reports and textbooks to acquire information
• Audio visual material including slides and videos
• Investigative work and independent study, particularly for student-led seminars and individual fieldwork study

A minimum of 5 GCSEs grade C or above. An interest in the subject is essential if students are to be successful.

You must be interested in archaeology and be prepared to take an active role in class discussions and in a range of fieldwork exercises. Archaeology has close links with a wide range of science and social science subjects. It connects with themes studied in History, Geography, Classical Civilisation, Biology, Chemistry, Physics and many others. Archaeology can be studied as a B.A. or a B.Sc at University and is accepted as either a science or arts A-Level.

There are many opportunities for careers in environmental and conservation areas, because of the development of museums and heritage centres for recreation and leisure. You also need to be sufficiently motivated to read current journals and take advantage of any opportunities to gain practical experience.

Grades are given throughout the course only to enable the student to gauge their progress. They do not constitute part of the final mark. The work is assessed at the end of the course after the final examination when all the required work is marked together. It consists of 3 components: 3 pieces of course work (including a critical and historical study), an externally set paper and preparatory and supporting work for the paper. A grade is not awarded to a candidate who fails to produce work in all three areas.

Formal and informal teaching throughout the course consisting of group teaching and discussions and individual teaching and guidance. You are encouraged to develop self-directed study to acquire the confidence to create course work and examination work which demonstrates your personal skills and abilities.

Grade B and over at GCSE is advisable. In addition you must have a keen interest in and an enjoyment of the subject in order to develop your work in a personal way. You must be aware that Art is time consuming. There are no short cuts if you wish to gain a good grade at the end of the course.

Cell Biology and genetics.

The organism and the environment.

Systems and their maintenance.

Micro-organisms and Biotechnology.

Examinations are taken in each module (4x15%). In addition, practical work during the course counts 20% as does a final synoptic paper. The first module paper is taken in June of Year 12.

Much of the teaching is based on discussions about how particular organisms and indeed systems within those organisms function effectively. You are encouraged to apply the principles of Biology to novel situations.

Practical work is carried out regularly throughout the course, often being the basis for future discussions and problem solving. You are encouraged to use libraries and the selection of text books available to read more widely around the subject.

Practical work is assessed as part of each module. In addition you must carry out a longer investigation and a small project of your choosing.

A field course runs in March of Yr. 12 and this is a fantastic opportunity for you to immerse yourself in marine ecology. Distribution of organisms on the seashore, the factors that affect them and sampling techniques are studied. This provides an ideal time for you to carry out your longer investigation.

At least grades BB GCSE Combined Science are needed. If you enjoyed learning at GCSE level about living organisms and how they work then you may wish to consider studying Advanced Level Biology. You should be a competent practical worker and you should be prepared to plan and carry out projects with others and on your own. Experience indicates that you will only benefit from an Advanced Level Biology course if you are willing to work hard by reading widely and making supplementary notes from a variety of sources. The course is a much more demanding subject than GCSE might have led you to believe. Organisms are basically complex systems of chemical reactions and the A-Level course includes about a term of biochemistry. Biology may be studied together with other sciences, for those intending a career in Science, or with other subjects for those who have an interest in the subject but may not wish to continue with it in the future. Anyone considering a degree course in Biology must also take A-Level Chemistry.

This modular course comprises 5 examinations:

- Marketing and Accounting and Finance: 16 ²/₃% June of Year 12

- Operations Management and People: 16 ²/₃% June of Year 12

- External Influences: 16 ²/₃% January of Year 13

- Objectives and Strategy: 30% June of Year 13

- All areas of Subject Content: 20% June of Year 13

Re-sits of modular papers possible.

A variety of methods are employed, taking the form of lectures, groupwork, discussion and use of audio-visual aids. Extensive reading, note-taking and written work are designed to help develop the ability to analyse, evaluate and write clearly. Independent study forms a large component outside lessons.

A grade C or above in both English and Mathematics at GCSE.

Students are expected to read quality newspapers and publications regularly and view TV news and current affairs programmes. Educational visits are arranged where appropriate.

Currently, the examinations in modules 1 and 3 are taken in January of Y.13. The remaining examinations and resits are taken in May/June of Y.13.

A considerable part of the course is studied through individual practical investigations. Other parts of the course are taught by discussion, note taking and problem solving which will involve applying the principles of Chemistry to novel situations. Homework is set on a weekly basis. Written work is marked and discussed on its return to students.

At least grades BB GCSE Combined Science. At least grade C in Mathematics.

Advanced Level Chemistry is an important qualification needed for many scientific careers. It will allow you to enter one of the many careers in the field of Chemistry itself or to go in a direction in which Chemistry is not your main interest but provides essential background information such as food technologist, pharmacist, ecologist. Furthermore, achieving a successful grade in this subject reflects a level of academic ability which will allow entry into careers outside the scientific discipline itself.

(a) Epic The Iliad, Odyssey and Aeneid. Prescribed chapters only, which amount to about half of each text.

(b) Tragedy Prometheus Bound, Oedipus, Antigone, Hippolytus, Alcestis, the Bacchae.

Greek and Roman slavery, education, family life, religion and importance and status of women; climate, agriculture, trade routes of the Mediterranean; early

industry; private and public finance; the constitutions of Sparta, Athens and Rome.

Assessment

Candidates will take two three hour examinations. There is no coursework element but the syllabus has been revised to give a wider question choice.

Paper 1 Background: 4 questions chosen from 16

Paper 2 Literature: A. Epic: 2 questions from 6.

B. Tragedy: 2 questions from 6.

All questions carry 25 marks and must be answered in essay form. (In the Literature paper, up to 2 context questions can be taken in place of essays.) N.B. This is not an 'Open Book' type literature paper.

A balance of formal and informal lessons with class discussion is encouraged. You are asked to prepare seminars from time to time and may also research some topics by yourself, with appropriate guidance. Direct teaching and paired/group work are regular practice in class.Videos are used whenever possible for background and drama topics.

A minimum of 5 GCSEs, grade C or above. These must include subjects which demonstrate essay skills. Grade B is to be preferred in one of these essay-based subjects. The course contains many 'humanities' type topics and the approach to literature is similar to that of English.

Those who take this subject must enjoy reading because the wide range of material to be covered demands extensive reading of background topics, set texts and literary criticism as well as accurate learning and note-taking. No prior knowledge of the ancient world is presumed and the subject combines well with English, History, Geography and other Arts subjects for university entrance. There are close links too with Drama, Archaeology and Philosophy. Broadly speaking, the subject provides a solid basis of academic study for many degree courses and is attractive to a variety of employers.

Students must also complete a project on information processing, adequately documented and tested; this will involve programming in a high level language or development of a relational database system.

Project, submitted at Easter of Year 13 (One third of total marks)

Final examinations - two papers both in June of Year 13, both worth one third of total marks.

Paper 1 - Applications of computers, systems engineering, system implementation tools and methods.

Paper 2 - Software development, system software and computer architecture.

Lessons are formally taught, but it is essential that you undertake wide background reading as well as developing your skills in the use of software. You will be expected to complete regular essay and past paper questions.

Grade B passes in Mathematics and English Language. In certain circumstances entry is possible if these grades have not been achieved but will require discussion with the Head of Department. You should be able to demonstrate proficiency in logical and constructive thinking essential in the design and implementation of computer programs and software solutions. Since the time available in class for ‘hands-on’ experience is limited, you must be prepared to gain much of this experience during the lunch breaks and after school.

You must be prepared to exercise the self-discipline to organise yourself for a lengthy project: the assessed project typically is undertaken over 6 months.

The course is modular - at the end of year 12 you will have completed the AS level and the first half of the A-Level course - by the end of Year 13 you will have completed the full A-Level course.

Year 12 coursework 1 - 25% 50-60 hours

This is a project of your own choice. You will be expected to determine a need and then design, construct and evaluate the outcome.

Year 12 Examination Paper 1 - 25% 3 hours

Section A: Compulsory questions

Section B: Optional questions - candidates select 2

Section C: Product Analysis - one compulsory question

Year 13 Coursework 2 - 25%

A second project, again of your own choice. The outcome is expected to be of a higher quality than that produced in Year 12.

Year 13 Examinations - 25%

Paper 2 - 1 hour 30 mins.

In depth specialist questions on your knowledge and understanding of designing and making with Resistant Materials - candidates select 3.

Paper 3 - 3 hours

Product Design - at the end of March in Year 13 you will receive two briefs from which you select one to research. The prep. work can be taken into the exam but it is not submitted for assessment. During the exam you will have to respond to a set of questions and are expected to analyse the product in detail, draw up a specification and draft a proposed solution.

As the course is a mixture of academic study and practical work, lessons will sometimes take the form of lectures whilst at other times you will be expected to take a very ‘hands on’ approach. This will include preparing, researching, presenting and discussing topical, historical and influential designers and their work; keeping up to date with innovations and trends in design by reading relevant publications and watching particular TV programmes; visiting a diverse range of industries to observe the work of designers, manufacturing methods and processes; as well as completing practical tasks. You are expected to spend at least 2 hours a week of your study time working in the Design Technology area.

You should enjoy solving problems and, as we study innovations from the original idea through to the launch of the final product, you will need to have an interest in, and develop an awareness of, how Design influences all areas of life. The coursework will require good organisation, independent study and consultation with an appropriate business or industry in order to carry out research. This practical experience in the role of the Designer is valued, and students considering careers in various branches of Design or Engineering, would be able to demonstrate their experience of practical problem solving.

A grade B or above is preferred from students who have studied Design Technology GCSE from the Focus Areas of Resistant Materials, Graphics or Product Design as well as grades CC or above in Combined Science.

The Examination Board allows for a modular examination pattern, which is as follows at present:

Module 1 - 20% Available in June of Year 12, January and June of Year 13.

Module 2 - 30% Available in January and June of Year 13

Module 3 - 20% Completion date March of Year 13

At least four texts will be studied. Each candidate will compile a folder of coursework assignments totalling between 3000 and 4000 words. The composition of the folder is flexible and may consist of a single study, two pieces of work, each of 1500 - 2000 words, or three pieces of work, each of 1000 - 1500 words. The folder is internally marked and moderated internally and externally.

Module 4 - 30% Available in June of Year 13.

GCSE grade B or above in Language and Literature. (If students have achieved only grade C they may still be able to take the `A' Level, after discussion with their Year 11 English teacher.)

It is essential to have a genuine interest in literature, to be able to express ideas clearly and effectively on paper and to be willing to undertake personal research outside the classroom. The reading can be difficult and the written work extensive.

Final examinations - four papers taken in May/June of Year 13:

Paper 1: Listening, Reading and Writing (30%)

Paper 2: Reading and Writing (30%)

Paper 3: Topics (20%) - two essays in French of approximately 350 words on prepared topics.

Paper 4: Oral (20%) - discussion of an extract from an article and of a prepared topic and general conversation.

Various materials are used e.g. recorded material, articles, textbooks and worksheets to stimulate discussion and writing in French and to develop students’ linguistic skills (listening speaking, reading and writing) and knowledge of and opinions about topics of current relevance in French-speaking countries. Students assume much more responsibility for their own progress than at GCSE level mainly by preparing material for discussion before lessons take place. French is used as far as possible as the medium for discussion and explanation.

Grade A or A* at GCSE is preferred. Students who gain a Grade B and who wish to start the course should consult with both their previous teacher and the Head of Department.

In addition to formal assignments which are submitted for marking - translations, essays, comprehension and grammar exercises etc. - students should ensure that they record and learn new vocabulary and grammatical structures as they are encountered in order to develop the fluency, accuracy and range of their writing and speaking. Steady, regular effort helps the development of individuals’ linguistic abilities.

Module 3 gives you a chance to choose what is studied from Natural Hazards, Health, Tourism and Development. To assist in the delivery of this you are encouraged to keep up to date with current affairs.

Module 4 is an investigation into a local issue. A residential field trip is run in March. Yr. 12 to teach fieldwork skills that can be used to carry out individual investigation.

Modules 1,2 and 5 are taught using a range of activities including discussions, seminars, role plays, video analysis and statistical techniques.

Module 6 is a decision making paper based around pre-release materials.

To study A-Level Geography you must have grade C or above at GCSE.

All modules are final examinations and are taken in May/June of Year 13.

Module 1: Listening (1 hour) 15%

Module 2: Reading and Writing (1¾ hour) 15%

Module 3: Prepared Oral Topic (13-14 minutes) 20%

Module 4: Oral Extension (10-11 minutes) 15%

Module 5: Topics and Texts (2½ hours) 20%

Module 6: Writing in Registers (1½ hours) 15%

Various materials are used e.g. recorded material, articles, textbooks and worksheets to stimulate discussion and writing in German and to develop student’s linguistic skills (listening/speaking/reading/writing) and knowledge of and opinions about topics of current relevance in German speaking countries.

Students assume much more responsibility for their own progress than at GCSE level mainly by preparing materials for discussion before lessons take place. German is used as far as possible as the medium for discussion and explanation.

Grade A or A* at GCSE is preferred. Students who gain a Grade B and who wish to start the course should consult with both their previous teacher and the Head of German. A German A-Level guide can be borrowed and students are encouraged to discuss any concerns regarding the A-Level course with their German teacher and Head of German at any time during Year 11.

In addition to formal assignments which are submitted for marking - essays, comprehension and grammar exercises etc. - students should ensure that they record and learn new vocabulary and grammatical structures as they are encountered in order to develop the fluency, accuracy and range of their writing and speaking. Steady, regular effort helps the development of individuals’ linguistic abilities.

You will have the opportunity to participate in frequent classroom discussion and debate, which will supplement both the texts and videos supplied as well as the oral and written information provided by the course tutor. There will also be an educational visit to the Houses of Parliament.

A grade C or above in English GCSE is a formal requirement for entry to the course. However, an interest in the news, current affairs and political matters, and a desire to learn more about them, are very important informal requirements.

You are encouraged to read widely and to carry out individual research into particular areas of the course of study. Lessons usually take the form of seminars or discussion sessions which are then used to form the basis of study. Reading, discussion and written work are designed to encourage and help you to analyse, argue and write fluently.

A real interest and enjoyment of the subject is essential if you are to be successful. History is an academic subject which is recognised as an excellent qualification for a wide range of courses and careers. Courses in Higher Education such as Social Sciences including Law, Psychology and Archaeology particularly benefit from a study of History at Advanced Level. As the study of History encourages you to question and to reason, to formulate and express your own ideas, such skills are obviously in high demand in most careers. We prefer students who have studied GCSE History to have obtained a B grade in the subject and a Grade B in English Language GCSE is also preferred. Students who have not studied History at GCSE level should not feel excluded from the study at Advanced Level. If you enjoy reading, like to discuss and have a real appreciation of the past then providing you have obtained the necessary qualifications in English, we will be very pleased for you to join the course.

The course aims to provide you with a broad understanding of the many aspects of food technology in industry. The second year of the course develops particular themes; e.g. biotechnology, allowing for greater investigation and in depth study. The A-Level course provides a progressive framework for you to continue the study of food technology from GCSE, and promotes further higher education and employment routes after completion.

The full A-Level is made up of two parts AS = 50% A2 = 50%

Certification: you can -

• undertake the AS examination only
• undertake the AS examination in the first year and upgrade to the A-Level in the following year.

Food Technology by its nature requires a diverse range of teaching styles to develop the creative, the analysis and written expression as well as designing making and evaluating in a technological way. Visits to the food industry will be included. You will be expected to continue with further personal study.

It is desirable that you should have undertaken a course giving a solid foundation for advanced work. The GCSE examinations for Design and Technology would provide a suitable basis.

We offer eight of The University of London’s mathematics modules, each of which can be be examined in January and June. To obtain an A-Level a student needs to take four modules and for an AS Level a student needs to take two modules.

What does the course involve?

We offer two different courses

The examinations taken are four of the University of London’s Modules. They can be attempted more than once but two must be taken as a final examination in the Summer of Year 13.

The approach is similar to that at GCSE but students are expected to study more on their own and read around the subject. Homework will be set regularly and will generally be of a problem solving nature.

Grade A or A* GCSE is preferred. Students who gain grade B will need to discuss their choice with both their previous teacher and the Head of Department before any final decision can be made; they should have studied Mathematics to the highest level at GCSE.

It is very unusual for a student who does not enjoy Mathematics to consider taking this course, since the gap between A-Level and GCSE Mathematics is large and you should expect the work to be much more demanding. You should be able to demonstrate a proficiency in algebraic technique, an ability to abstract and generalise, a willingness to apply theory to problem solving and a capacity to persevere. Mathematics is a useful subject as it combines well with any other subject. It is a support subject for Physics and Chemistry and some form of Mathematics A-Level is essential if Physics or Engineering is to be a main area of study after A-Level. A-Level Mathematics is an acceptable qualification for all Higher Education courses and is a very saleable commodity for a career either after school or after Higher Education.

What does the course involve?

The course aims to provide a firm foundation of techniques in Pure Mathematics and Theoretical Mechanics and a knowledge of Statistics and of Decision Mathematics all of which may be of use in the future, to encourage an understanding of the subject and extend it to a high level, and to promote the subject as an enjoyable experience.

Pure Mathematics (P1, P2, P3 and P4) Mechanics (M1 and M2) Statistics (T1) and Decision Mathematics (D1). The contents of these are described under the modules listed for the single A-Level.

The examinations taken are eight of the University of London’s Modules. They can be attempted more than once but four must be taken as a final examination in the Summer of Year 13.

The approach is similar to that at GCSE Level but students are expected to study more on their own and read around the subject. Homework will be set regularly and will generally be of a problem solving nature.

GCSE Grade A or A*

It is very unusual for a student who does not enjoy Mathematics to consider taking this course, since the gap between A-Level and GCSE Mathematics is large and students should expect the work to be much more demanding. You should be able to demonstrate a proficiency in algebraic technique, an ability to abstract and generalise, a willingness to apply theory to problem solving and a capacity to persevere. Double Mathematics should only be studied by people with a great deal of enthusiasm for the subject.

Double Mathematics is of particular interest to students who find Mathematics both challenging and rewarding. It is also of particular benefit to students interested in acquiring a broad range of Mathematical skills, therefore, an important qualification for students intending to read Physical Sciences, Engineering or Mathematics. Good qualifications in double mathematics open up a wide variety of interesting, rewarding careers. It is the ‘Blue Ribbon’ A-Level Mathematics qualification and will certainly be very highly thought of when seeking a career.

The aims of this are very similar to the A-Level but it has half the content. Only two modules need be studied; they are P1 together with P2, M1, T1 or D1.

It may be possible to offer this as a one year course (eight lessons a week) or a two year course (four lessons a week) but since it is not a main stream course please consult the Head of Mathematics for further details and advice.

(I) Aural Skills

(ii) Musical Techniques: harmony and counterpoint

(iii) Musical History and Analysis

(iv) Performance

This is through the following examinations:

You will be expected to work with your specialist instrumental teacher for the individual performance requirement, practising in private study time and at home.

Lessons will focus on the development of aural skills, as well as the musical techniques, history and analysis elements of the syllabus.

Music may be studied with a variety of other subjects, such as Mathematics, Physics, History, Modern Languages. There is a wide range of careers open to students with a musical qualification, from the competitive world of the performing artist, as a soloist or member of an orchestra, to broadcasting and television, teaching, music journalism, music therapy. Music offers not only considerable personal satisfaction but an opportunity to foster creative, practical and analytical skills which are of interest to many employers.

I

The examination consists of 4 module tests, a synoptic paper and a practical test.

PH1 Module 1 Mechanics and electricity 15%

PH2 Module 2 Matter and waves 15%

PH3 Module 3 Thermal Physics 15%

Medical Physics

PH4 Module 4 Fields 15%

Solid materials

PH6 Synoptic paper Passage analysis 20%

Data handling

Long structured questions

P87 Practical Test Shorter questions 20%

Long question

Currently, modules 1 and 2 are taken in January of Y13. The remaining examinations and resits are taken in May/June of Y13.

Of the eight period allocation, six are devoted to the teaching of the principles of the subject and, in the remaining two, you attempt to verify these principles experimentally. This procedure incorporates the development of specific laboratory skills. Homework is set every week. This includes your submission of your practical investigation together with problems which amplify the classwork and test its application. The written work is marked and thoroughly discussed on its return to you.

At least grades BB GCSE Combined Science.

At least grade B in Higher Level Mathematics, since competency in Mathematics is an essential pre-requisite for Advanced Level Physics.

Students who wish to pursue Physics at this level should have already displayed interest and enthusiasm in the subject.

Advanced Level Physics is an extremely useful qualification en route to many careers, including engineering. A respectable grade in this subject is widely regarded as indicative of a logical mind and an ability to cope with intellectual challenges.

There are 3 written papers in the final examination:

A combination of different teaching methods will be used on the course at any given time. You will need to participate fully in lectures, discussion, research and activities, group work and seminar work. At the start of the course great emphasis is placed upon your development of Advanced Level study skills.

Your must be prepared, at Advanced Level, to undertake individual background reading and research. It is important that you take an active interest in current affairs.

You will need 5 GCSEs at C or above preferably including a GCSE grade B in English and C in Mathematics.

• The Anatomical, Physiological and Psychological principles that govern performance in sport
• The historical development of sport in Britain including social and cultural issues.

2 examinations = 70%

1 coursework project = 30% - conducting an experiment, collecting and collating data, researching and presenting results and conclusions.

A variety of approaches will be used:

• Teacher input, through discussion, practical work and note taking
• Group discussion of issues relevant to the course
• Practical experiments to illustrate theoretical aspects
• Individual and group seminars

GCSE Grade C or above in English, Maths and Science. An interest in sport is essential.

Advice: It must be noted that although there will be some practical work, this does not make up the majority of the course. A willingness to work independently and take notes of current events in the sporting world is useful.

GCSE grade B or above in English and English Literature, GCSE Drama is an asset.

No previous knowledge or experience of drama is required; however, it is essential to have an enthusiastic, genuine interest in drama and the theatre, and to be prepared to partcipate in all activities in practical lessons. You will also be required to attend at least four theatrical productions out of school time. This course does not train students to act, although it can be a useful introduction for those seeking a career in the theatre.