Why study Fine Art AS Level?

If you have a passion and flair for art, then this course is for you. You will extend your knowledge and understanding of art and art movements, whilst exploring ideas and advancing your skills within your practical work.

What's on the course?

You will be introduced to a variety of experiences exploring a range of media, processes and techniques. The syllabus includes drawing, painting and mixed media, printmaking, relief, intaglio and screen processes. You will work on one or more of these and may explore overlapping or combinations of areas. There is a specialist printmaking studio with printmaking facilities for screen printing, lino printing, dry point, relief and mono printing. Underpinning your work will be the use of sketchbooks, workbooks or journals

Why study Biology?

Biology is a wide ranging subject with an increasing relevance to everyday life in terms of health and environmental issues. DNA will be the molecule of this century and techniques associated with it will affect most people’s lives.

In terms of further study at university, Biology is a desirable subject for all medical and paramedical courses, including Dentistry, Biochemistry, Microbiology and Biotechnology

What’s on the course?

Unit 1: Biology of Disease

The focal points of this unit are the ways in which disease causing organisms and lifestyle choices can affect the digestive and respiratory systems.

Unit 2: The variety of living organisms

Organisms vary enormously and classification is a means by which this variety can be organised. Living organisms vary not only in observable physical characteristics, but also in differences in biochemistry and the way in which cells are organised.

Unit 3: Investigative and practical skills- two aspects

ISA (Investigative Skills Assignment) set by AQA. This involves the collection of raw data from an experiment, the processing of this data and drawing a graph. Based on this data a test is taken. Additional resources are provided at this stage to allow you to comment on the experimental method and the analysis and evaluation of the results. Two attempts can be made during the year.

PSA (Practical Skills Assessment) - a summary mark of your practical skills takes place over the whole yea

Why study AS Business Studies?

There are few courses available that are as useful throughout life as Business Studies. Regardless of whether you want a career in business, or you just want to improve your employment or promotional prospects, there is no denying its usefulness.

Business Studies is also great fun with a mixture of hands on activities such as organising trips, the Make Your Mark Challenge, Enterprise tasks and Business Simulations.

What’s on the course?

We start the course by focusing on planning for a new business enterprise. Why is it important to create a unique product or service? What are the personality traits of a successful entrepreneur? How do you plan your finances?

The second half of the year is spent looking at how to manage the business once it has been set up. What is it that makes leaders behave in different ways? How can you get the best out of staff and managers? Is business success really down to its position in the market or is it down to the way that the staff behave? Are there external influences that affect the success of the organisation?

Finally, we make sure you understand all the theory by planning a business trip where we will have a chance to see how things are done in business across the globe

Why study AS Chemistry?

The world is made up of atoms and molecules. Chemistry studies the way in which these atoms and molecules interact. This provides us with opportunities to develop new drugs, reduce pollution and develop new materials. Chemistry is an important subject to study if you want to do any of the following degrees: Medicine, Chemical Engineering, Biochemistry, Forensic Science, Pharmacy, Biology and Dentistry.

What’s on the course?

Unit 1 - Foundation Chemistry

This module explores the fundamental principles that form the basis of Chemistry. We begin by looking at the structure of the atom and the evidence supporting its structure. We also study the amount of substance and then look at how the periodic table was put together. In this module there will be an introduction to organic compounds.

Unit 2 - Chemistry in Action

Here we look at physical Chemistry and this involves studying a variety of chemical reactions and the factors affecting the rates of reactions. We study how metals are extracted using some of the above chemical processes. Other organic compounds will also be discussed here.

Unit 3 - Investigative & Practical skills

You will be assessed by making observations and measurements, analysing and evaluating results

Why study AS Citizenship?

Do you want a greater appreciation of your role in society? Studying Citizenship takes you through a personal journey. You start off as an informed citizen then become a citizen who has the knowledge to participate in society, before finally arriving at the stage of being an active citizen with a voice that can be heard and the skills to make a difference in society.

What's on the course?

We'll begin by looking at your identity, rights and responsibilities as a citizen. You will investigate what it means to be a British citizen and how all citizens are equal. You will then look at who holds power in the UK and identify how citizens can make a difference to society. You will be asking yourself the question 'how can I make a difference?'

Why study Communication and Culture AS Level?

Our communication and cultural practices define who we are as individuals, as groups and societies. Through the study of these practices we can understand human behaviour, representation, social values and ethics, identity, technology and power in our societies much better. This subject will improve your understanding of the culture and the cultural products you share with those around you, as well as your reading, writing, verbal and I.T. communication skills. In short, you will be studying a challenging and engaging combination of English Language, History, Sociology, Philosophy, Psychology and Media Studies.

You should already have a genuine interest in the history and practices of UK popular and high culture and communication (cinema vs theatre, literature vs the internet, popular music vs classical music etc.) and in turn, be motivated to improve and elevate your critical thinking skills, visual analysis skills, writing skills, research skills, as well as enhance your enjoyment and appreciation of the subject in your daily life.

What’s on the course?

50% of the course is devoted to Understanding Communication and Culture in terms of personal communication skills, cultural practices and researching and interpreting cultural data.

The remaining 50% is focused on a research project based on The Individual and Contemporary Culture with regards to the cultural products you are exposed to and interact with on an everyday level, and how these help construct your own personal cultural identity

Why study English Language AS level?

Look at the language around you. How does a baby go from one word to 2,000 by the age of five? How did you learn to speak and what do the words you use say about you? If you’re interested in the answers to these questions then AS English Language is for you.

What’s on the course?

We’ll begin by looking at language used in everyday life, both spoken and written and you’ll find out how you learnt to use words and form sentences. You’ll look at what makes a good conversationalist and what makes a good listener. You’ll even get a chance to find out whether it is true that women talk more than men and do all the gossiping!

For your coursework, you’ll also look at how language is used to represent various groups or personalities across the media and use what you’ve learnt to create your own representation

Why study English Literature AS Level?

Story telling has been around for centuries and our understanding of life is often based on what we have read. AS English Literature focuses on the study of literature from both the past and the present. It enables you to explore set texts in detail as well as giving you the confidence to investigate and express your own ideas. If you enjoy reading and writing and want to expand your knowledge and understanding of texts then AS English Literature is the course for you.

What’s on the course?

We’ll be studying modern poetry where you’ll focus closely on one poet, this year you’ll be studying Carol Ann Duffy and you also get the chance to look at a comparative text, the poetry of Sheenagh Pugh. We’ll then move onto the drama element of the course where you’ll enjoy Brian Friel's Dancing at Lughnasa.

You will also need to complete a coursework folder which will include three pieces of work based around your prose reading. You’ll be studying two works, one in detail, Fitzgeralds The Great Gatsby, one for wider reading and writing an essay of 1500 words. Then quickly onto the creative element where you’ll produce a piece of writing, maybe a short story, a drama script or a piece of travel writing, based on your wider reading and finally you’ll write a commentary on your own work

Why study Film Studies AS Level?

The cinema industry is a multi-billion dollar enterprise which stretches across all four corners of the globe, affecting, influencing and informing the ways we live our lives, run our societies and share our cultures. For such a far-reaching topic to be studied in depth, to improve our knowledge and appreciation of film and of ourselves, it is natural for us to critically engage and write about the subject rather than simply sit back and watch. Consequently, as we explore the history and construction of both classic and contemporary films, you will encounter film form (the effective use of mise-en-scene, editing, cinematography, sound), narrative and genre, as well as be required to critically contrast the business practices in both the UK and the US markets.

You should already have a genuine interest in the history and art of film and cinema (both in English and non-English languages) and, in turn, be motivated to improve and elevate your critical thinking skills, visual analysis skills, writing skills, research skills, as well as enhance your enjoyment and appreciation of the subject in your everyday life

What’s on the course?

40% of the course is devoted to critical analysis of film form and the creative application of this analysis.

The coursework also informs 50% of A2 Level. The course is not suitable for students who do not possess attentive reading, writing, visual and aural skills. The remaining 60% is focused on an examined exploration of the American and British film industries (finance, post-production, production, distribution and exhibition), together with an examination of the varieties of cinematic experiences by popular and specialised audiences

Why study AS Level French?

Did you know that people with a foreign language qualification have one of the lowest unemployment rates of all? Whether you want a career in teaching, translating or interpreting, or just want to improve your employment prospects, there’s no denying how useful a language can be.

Studying French is also great fun, with a mixture of lively, interactive teaching to engage and motivate you. If this sounds attractive, then why not study AS Level French?

What’s on the course?

We begin by studying leisure and lifestyles in France. This will include travel and tourism, hobbies, customs and traditions. How do these differ from our own, and how have they changed in recent years?

We will then move on to examine relationships, health and nutrition, and social issues such as drugs, smoking and alcohol in France. How serious are these problems in France, and how are they being tackled?

Throughout the year, we will revise, reinforce and extend your knowledge and understanding of French grammar and vocabulary. You will receive all the support and guidance you need to help you to develop and improve your language skills

Why study AS Geography?

What are the implications of Aids/HIV? How can we prevent flooding in this country? What is the effect of our aging population on our society? All are aspects covered in AS Geography.

What’s on the course?

The first unit is the theory and is worth 70% of the AS marks. It consists of physical and human geography. The physical core section looks at rivers, floods and their management. The optional section will be on coasts, the processes, features and management.

The human geography core concentrates on global population changes, natural and due to migration concluding with a section on how the changes will influence society. The option topic will be on health issues considering a global disease such as HIV/Aids but also a disease of ‘affluence’ such as cancer. Relationships with food availability lead to a study of globalisation, famine and obesity. The last section refers to the factors which determine health and well being.

At the same time skills are taught throughout the course, you will practise map and graph analysis and be able to evaluate ideas presented in written material. One piece of group fieldwork will be undertaken which will be examined in the skills module

Why study AS History?

History is an excellent A Level choice as it will help to develop your ability to think critically. In addition to gaining a knowledge and understanding of the periods, themes and topics studied, you will also develop important skills including the ability to distinguish between fact and opinion and to make judgements. The course also provides you with the opportunity to develop research and communication skills. If you’re interested in developing a range of skills that will provide you with a firm foundation for a wide range of degrees or careers then AS History is for you.

What’s on the course?

We’ll begin with Britain: A Sixties Social Revolution? British Society, 1959 - 1975. We study the extent to which British values were transformed and will look at new trends in popular culture, the changing status and roles of women and youth, the importance of government legislation and the impact of immigration.

We then move on to Tsarist Russia 1855 to 1917. We look at what Russia was like under the final three tsars and the causes and effects of the Russian Revolutions of 1917. We look at the role of individuals and examine factors working for and against change. We also debate interpretations of events, issues and ideas

Why study AS Law?

As an individual you have to obey laws of society, if you don’t you will be punished! By studying AS Law, you’ll begin to understand why we have laws and where they have come from. The law is constantly changing, and you’ll have fun exploring the reasons for those changes.

What’s on the course?

We’ll begin with law making and the legal system where you’ll look at the workings of the English Legal System. We’ll look at what courts there are, magistrates and juries, why we need judges and how anyone can become a barrister or solicitor. We’ll also look at alternatives to the courts where people can settle arguments. Then we’ll look at Law Making – where we look at where laws come from and how they are applied and interpreted.

Then we look at the 'Concept of Liability', where we look at criminal law on violence and whether people who have been injured by someone can claim damages under the Tort of Negligence

Why study Mathematics AS Level?

It is difficult to overstate the importance of maths in today’s world. The skills gained on a maths course are essential for successful progression in education and employment. Maths has links with science, engineering and technology and is important to a range of other subjects. The study of Maths also develops skills in logical thinking and analysis which are highly valued by employers.

What’s on the course?

We will begin with the Core 1 module where you will start to develop the skills in algebra and geometry that you started at GCSE, such as equations and graphs. The new topic of calculus is introduced briefly.

The second module, Core 2, explores these topics in more depth and also includes trigonometry.

The third module is an applied course in statistics, including probability and analysis of data using averages, histograms, cumulative frequency graphs etc

Why study Media Studies AS Level?

Given the Media saturated world in which we live you may well ask if you can really afford not to consider studying the media. However, despite a common misconception, the subject is what it says – it is the study of media and it is certainly not merely watching the television. When films or television programmes are used for analysis it needs a critical eye for detail to justify why something has been filmed in a certain way and explain the effect it has on the intended target audience. The course will develop critical engagement with a wide range of theory and the whole spectrum of media texts, newspapers, magazines, posters, advertisements, CD covers, music videos, computer games and websites.

You should already have a genuine interest in a range of media and the course should enhance your enjoyment and appreciation of the media and its role in your daily life.

What’s on the course?

50% of the course is devoted to practical production coursework. Because of the significant weighting of this element, and the fact that coursework in year two also involves a practical production, the course is not suitable for students who do not possess existing IT skills in software programmes such as Publisher and Photoshop or Dreamweaver.

The other 50% is analysis of media texts as outlined above with the focus on generic and narrative conventions, technical codes, media language, mode of address, representation, ideology and target audiences

Why study AS Psychology?

Psychology is a bridging subject between art and science, consequently it complements all other A level subjects. This subject investigates the psychology of mind and behaviour. It is relevant for all ages and stages of human growth and development.

What’s on the course?

Why study AS Sociology?

Sociology is a subject full of debates about why people behave the way they do. If you have opinions about why Britain has the highest divorce rate in Europe, why prison doesn’t appear to work very well or the amount of violence shown on TV then Sociology is a subject you would find interesting and informative.

What’s on the course?

We’ll begin with Acquiring Culture, where we will look at the relationship between the individual and wider society. This topic will help you explore the way you perceive and feel about yourself – what has made you the person you are today? What influenced your choice on the clothes you choose to wear this morning? Why do you listen to that particular type of music?

Then we look at Understanding Culture, where we look at the influence and importance of education, religion and media to you as an individual and society as a whole

Why study AS Spanish?

Did you know that people with a foreign language qualification have one of the lowest unemployment rates of all? Whether you want a career in teaching, translating or interpreting, or just want to improve your employment prospects, there’s no denying how useful a language can be.

Studying Spanish is also great fun, with a mixture of lively, interactive teaching to engage and motivate you. If this sounds attractive, then why not study AS Spanish?

What’s on the course?

We begin by studying leisure and lifestyles in Spain. This will include travel and tourism, hobbies, customs and traditions. How do these differ from our own, and how have they changed in recent years?

We will then move on to examine relationships, health and nutrition, and social issues such as drugs, smoking and alcohol in Spain. How serious are these problems in Spain, and how are they being tackled?

Throughout the year, we will revise, reinforce and extend your knowledge and understanding of Spanish grammar and vocabulary. You will receive all the support and guidance you need to help you to develop and improve your language skills