sixth form consortium - Hitchin Girls School

HITCHIN SCHOOLS’ 

SIXTH FORM CONSORTIUM 

PROSPECTUS 2010-2012

Contents 

Page 

Foreword 3 

Page 

Page 

Introduction 

Consortium Aims and Objectives 4 

Entry to the Sixth Form 4 

Advice and Guidance 5 

Life in the Sixth Form 5 

How the Consortium Operates 6 

The Sixth Form Curriculum 6 

Art, Design & Technology Course Outlines 

Art & Design (Fine Art) A level 8 

Design & Technology (Food Technology) A level 9 

Design & Technology (3D Product Design) A level 10 

Design & Technology (Textiles) AS level 11 

Construction & The Built Environment Diploma 12 

Engineering Diploma 12 

Business & ICT Course Outlines 

BTEC Level 3 in Business 13 

Business Studies A level 14 

Economics & Business A level 15 

Economics A level 16 

BTEC Level 3 for IT Practitioners (General) 17 

ICT (Applied) A level 18 

Computing A level 19 

Business, Administration & Finance Diploma 20 

Information Technology Diploma 21 

Languages, Literature & Culture Course Outlines 

French and German A levels 22 

Classical Civilisation A level 22 

Classical Greek AS level 23 

Latin A level 23 

English Literature A level 24 

English Language & Literature A level 25 

Humanities & Social Sciences Course Outlines 

Critical Thinking A level 26 

Government & Politics A level 27 

Philosophy & Ethics A level 28 

Geography A level 29 

History A level 30 

Psychology A level 31 

Sociology A level 32 

Society, Health & Development Diploma 33 

Health & Social Care (Applied) A level 33 

Science & Mathematics Course Outlines 

Biology A level 34 

Chemistry A level 35 

Physics A level 36 

Science (Applied) A level 37 

Mathematics A level 38 

Further Mathematics A level 38 

Media, Performing Arts & Physical Education Course 

Outlines 

Music A level 39 

Music Technology A level 39 

BTEC Level 3 in Performing Arts (Acting) 40 

Drama & Theatre Studies A level 41 

Media Studies A level 42 

Creative & Media Diploma 43 

Physical Education A level 44 

Community Sports Leadership Level 2 45 

Sport & Active Leisure Diploma 45 

Leisure & Public Services Course Outlines 

Hospitality & Catering Diploma 46 

Hair & Beauty Studies Diploma 46 

Travel, Tourism & Transport Diploma 47 

Public Services Diploma 47 

Delivery of Courses 48 

Destinations 50 

Contact Details and Key Dates 52 

2 HITCHIN SCHOOLS’ SIXTH FORM CONSORTIUM

Introduction 

FOREWORD 

We are pleased that you are seriously considering remaining in full-time 

education and doing so in the Hitchin Schools’ Sixth Form Consortium. It is a 

Consortium of Hitchin Boys’ School, Hitchin Girls' School and The Priory 

School but it also has close links with North Hertfordshire College. 

Being part of a school Sixth Form is more than studying for qualifications. There are other benefits to 

be had from working with people you know, in a familiar environment. There is also a very significant 

contribution you can make as a sixth form student to your school and to the Consortium in a whole 

variety of ways which, in turn, will be of further benefit to you when you move on to higher education or 

employment. 

The Consortium has existed for many years but recently we have increased the range and 

combinations of subjects available to sixth form students. We constantly review what we offer and 

seek ways of improving still further the opportunities for post-16 students across the Consortium. 

Each of the schools in the Consortium has excellent arrangements in place to guide you in making 

your choices. We will provide advice, designed to offer you the most appropriate programme. 

After reading this Prospectus carefully do talk to your teachers, Heads of Year, Heads of Sixth Form, 

Connexions Advisors and students already following the courses in which you are interested. You will 

then be able to make your choices from an informed position. 

In the meantime we wish you every success in your examinations. 

The Head Teachers of Hitchin Boys’ School, The Priory School and Hitchin Girls' School 

HITCHIN SCHOOLS’ SIXTH FORM CONSORTIUM 3

Introduction 

INTRODUCTION 

Welcome to the Hitchin Schools’ Sixth Form Consortium Prospectus for the period September 2010 to 

July 2012. We hope that you find the information contained in it useful. Further information is 

available from the Head of Sixth Form at each of the schools and at the Sixth Form Open Evenings. 

The three Hitchin secondary schools, Hitchin Boys’, Hitchin Girls’ and The Priory are working together 

as a Sixth Form Consortium to enable almost 600 students to have access to a wide range of AS, A2 & 

BTEC courses. Further opportunities are available through North Hertfordshire College, and with the 

introduction of the new Diploma, across a wider North Hertfordshire network. 

CONSORTIUM AIMS & OBJECTIVES 

• To offer a working environment where you feel safe, valued and informed. 

• To meet the needs of all students through provision of appropriate learning and enrichment 

opportunities. 

• To provide clear progression opportunities along relevant and flexible pathways. 

• To ensure you receive comprehensive and impartial advice and guidance in order to achieve your 

full potential. 

• To give you the opportunity to develop the knowledge, skills and confidence to set yourself 

demanding targets and the determination to achieve them. 

• To provide you with a platform from which you can progress to employment or to higher or 

further education 

• To provide best value through effective deployment of resources and specialist staff. 

ENTRY TO THE SIXTH FORM 

You are encouraged to move on to the Sixth Form provided that you are capable of benefiting from the 

courses which are available and that you have a positive approach to your work. The level of course you 

could progress onto will depend on the results you achieve at Key Stage 4. Minimum entry requirements 

to our Consortium are 5 A*-C at GCSE or equivalent, including Maths or English, for an advanced level or 

Level 3 course. For intermediate level or Level 2 courses, the minimum entry requirements are 5 A*-G 

at GCSE or equivalent. Some subjects will have additional specific requirements. 

After the Open Evening you will be asked to complete an application form indicating the courses which 

you would like to take in the Sixth Form. These choices will be discussed with you in individual 

interviews and induction sessions will be held in each school. Taster lessons in each subject are run 

across the Consortium during a designated two day period in the second half of the summer term. 


ADVICE AND GUIDANCE 

Through the Hertfordshire Careers Service, all three schools have been awarded the Youth 

Connextions Quality Award in Careers Education and Guidance. Impartial advice and guidance 

regarding options after Key Stage 4 is available for you from a variety of sources including subject 

teachers, Year Heads, Careers Co-ordinators, Heads of Sixth Form and Head Teachers. 

Representatives from Hertfordshire Careers Service and Youth Connexions are available in school on 

a regular basis and will be in attendance at the Sixth Form Open Evenings. 

In the Sixth Form you will be assigned to a tutor and a tutor group for the whole of your Sixth Form 

course. The tutor, supported by your Head of Sixth, is responsible for your academic guidance and 

pastoral care. Academic guidance will include aspects such as monitoring progress, offering support 

and discussing whether progression from Year 12 to Year 13 stages of a course is always the right 

move. Careers education and guidance is an integral part of the Sixth Form programme with the aim 

of helping you to make informed, appropriate, choices about your future. Where talks and 

presentations are made from industry representatives, we are working towards making these 

accessible to students across the Consortium wherever possible. You will receive help and guidance 

about making applications to university and colleges throughout your time in the Sixth Form and there 

is an integrated reference process for UCAS applications between the three schools. 

Introduction 

LIFE IN THE SIXTH FORM 

The Sixth Form provides a series of opportunities for you to develop not only your academic and 

vocational attainments but also your self confidence and skills such as communication, team working 

and management of your own learning. 

You will be encouraged to take more responsibility for your work, particularly with regard to its 

planning and completion over longer periods of time, the preparation required for lessons and the 

amount of reading needed to gain the necessary depth and breadth of knowledge in each subject. 

With more lessons in each subject than at Key Stage 4, and often smaller classes, there is more 

chance to develop a closer contact with teachers and receive more individual attention. You will have a 

small number of private study periods during each week and this time should be seen as a chance to 

make progress with work or other relevant activities. 

There is a wide range of extra-curricular activities in which you may continue to develop your own 

skills and abilities and increase your range of interests. There are also opportunities for you to help 

staff with the running of activities for other students in your school. For example, you are encouraged 

to help support teachers in lessons with junior students and to participate in sport, music and drama. 

It is to be hoped that you will take up some of the opportunities available. 

The important factor overall is to maintain a good balance between the demands of academic work 

and all the other demands on your time. 


Introduction 

HOW THE CONSORTIUM OPERATES 

Each school offers a range of Sixth Form courses with the opportunity to take courses at other schools 

within the Consortium. Generally, it will be possible to accommodate you on the courses of your choice, 

however, where demand dictates, the following criteria will apply: 

1. Some courses are joint taught across two or more schools. Students from all three schools have 

equal right of access to these courses. 

2. Some courses are only delivered at one or two of the three schools. Places on these courses will be 

given to students from the other schools once the demand for places in the host school has been 

assessed. 

3. In some cases it is difficult to timetable all the subjects which you would like to take without there 

being a timetable clash. Most often in this situation it will be possible for you to take a subject at one 

of the other schools to resolve the clash. 

You must negotiate your courses with your own Head of Sixth Form. Students from outside the area 

wishing to be taught within the Consortium need first to apply to the Sixth Form in one of the schools. 

Transport is provided during the school day to move you between sites, where required, for consortium 

lessons. You are expected to make your own way to and from your teaching site at the beginning and 

end of the day. 

THE SIXTH FORM CURRICULUM 

Students joining the Sixth Form are encouraged to follow a broad, challenging curriculum. There are 

more than thirty different courses available within the Consortium and, through the wider partnership 

across North Hertfordshire, there is now access to eleven of the new diplomas and a number of 

apprenticeship programmes. 

A-Level Courses 

Advanced Level (A-Level) courses are modular, usually consisting of four units; two at Advanced 

Subsidiary (AS) level, studied in Year 12 and two at A2-level, studied in Year 13. The AS-units form the 

first half of the full A-level as well as being a qualification in their own right. 


Introduction 

Advanced Level in Applied Subjects (Applied A-Level) are vocationally focused courses available as 

single or double awards. Single Award usually consists of six units; three at AS level and three at A2 

level. Double Award usually consists of twelve units and counts as two A-levels. There are usually, six 

units at AS level and six at A2 level. 

Examination of AS and A2 units takes place in January and May/June of each year. All AS and A2 

courses are graded on a five point scale with pass grades from A to E. 

BTEC Courses 

BTEC Level 2 is an intermediate level course equivalent to GCSE grades A* - C. It is a modular course 

requiring a number of units to be completed. 

BTEC Level 3 is an advanced level course which is available in two different forms. National Award is a 

six unit course equivalent to one A-level. National Certificate is a twelve unit course equivalent to two 

A-levels. 

All BTEC courses are graded at Pass, Merit or Distinction level. They are vocational courses based on 

practical experience and are assessed through assignments, both internally and externally marked. 

Diploma Courses 

There are three levels of Diploma. Level 1 (Foundation) and Level 2 (Higher) can be completed in a 

single academic year, while the Level 3 Advanced will take two years full-time study and is equivalent to 

three ‘A’ levels. At all levels the diploma consists of three components: Principal Learning – related to 

the economic sector and designed and endorsed by the industry; Generic Learning – including 

functional skills of Maths, English & ICT, compulsory work experience and an extended project; and 

Additional/Specialist Learning – which allows you to choose more qualifications for flexibility and choice 

of learning. 

Apprenticeships 

Apprenticeships provide a route for you to start your career by developing knowledge and skills within 

the workplace whilst studying for nationally recognised qualifications. Through North Herts College, 

apprenticeships are available in Aeronautical Engineering, Business Administration; Construction; 

Customer Service; Hairdressing; Health & Social Care; Hospitality & Catering; Motor Vehicle; 

Sport & Leisure. 


Art, Design & Technology 

ART & DESIGN (Fine Art) - A Level 

Course Specification: OCR H161 and H561 

You will learn about art concepts, skills and practice through practical activities in a 

variety of media and formats including painting, sculpture, photography and digital 

media. Critical and contextual studies (exploring the work of others) will inform your 

own work. This practical course will enable you to develop the creative and 

intellectual skills for imaginative growth and to access the vast array of art and design 

further study and careers. It is also an excellent complement to many other areas of 

study, as it teaches you to be analytical, to solve problems creatively and to gain a 

cultural awareness. 

Both AS and A2 involve one coursework unit and an externally set unit leading to an exam. You are 

expected to develop initial class based experiments and study into coherent project folders which 

document your journey towards ambitious final pieces in chosen media/format. Work is internally 

marked and externally moderated. 

“This practical 

course will enable 

you to develop the 

creative and 

intellectual skills for 

imaginative growth” 

Course Specification : Edexcel 8FA01 

Your course will give you opportunities to learn how images and artefacts relate to the time and place in which 

they were made and to their social and cultural context. Your programme will encourage you to develop practical 

and theoretical knowledge and understanding of continuity and change in different genres, styles and traditions. 

Both AS and A2 involve one coursework unit and one externally set unit. You will develop knowledge, skills and 

understanding of materials, processes, technologies and resources through practical and contextual studies 

undertaken during studio and private study times. Gallery visits and workshops will form an integral part of the 

course. You will be encouraged to develop a personal response in relation to the four assessment objectives and 

be required to explore and show how ideas, feelings and meanings can be conveyed and interpreted in visual form. 

The creative industries are growth industries and Britain leads the way. Any design based study/career 

(including fashion) requires an art background. The qualification can lead to Foundation Studies at Higher 

Education in any art and/or design course and Degree Courses specialising in distinct areas of Art and/or Design 

e.g. Architecture; Fashion; Graphic Design; 3-D Design; Ceramics; Computer Graphics; Stage Set Design; 

Animation; Art Therapy; Museum Work; Fine Art; Education; History of Art; Interior Design; Product Design; 

Jewellery Design; Industrial Design; Textiles; Media Studies; Film-making; Conservation and Restoration. 



DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY - (FOOD TECHNOLOGY) 

A Level 

Course Specification: AQA 5541 and 6541 

This subject offers the chance to study an enjoyable and academic subject that develops your 

ability to come to understand the relationships between design, materials, manufacturing 

and marketing. 

The course covers nutrients, energy and diet for health promotion; issues related to mass media, 

the environment and food safety; and new product development for consumers in todays world. 

You will learn through practical product analysis and evaluation of food as a central theme. 

Application of food science and nutrition is essential alongside an understanding of society and 

health promotion relevant to the food industry. 

Assessment is by a combination of written examination and coursework. Your practical work 

will be presented as a coursework portfolio to show your best levels in design, idea generation, 

planning/making and evaluation. 

You will find a wealth of degree courses such as Nutrition and Dietetics, Medicine, Health 

Promotion Degree, Consumer and Marketing courses, Teaching, Food and Manufacturing, 

Food Science, Food Technology, Business and Food Management, Applied Science Courses, 

Environment Science, Food Media. 



DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY - (3D PRODUCT DESIGN) 

A Level 

Course Specification: AQA 2550 

This course has been designed to encourage you to take a broad view of design and 

technology, to develop your capacity to design and make products and to appreciate the 

complex relations between design, materials, manufacture and marketing. 

Students with an interest in 3D Product Design will possess an enquiring mind, learn to 

think creatively, and be prepared to challenge expectations, to intervene and improve the 

quality of life by solving problems as individuals and collectively, whilst producing three 

dimensional product models or working prototypes. To achieve this, you will combine 

practical and intellectual skills with an understanding of creativity, aesthetics, cultural, 

social, economic and environmental issues. Design studies will focus on the work of past 

designers, design movements of the 20th Century and contemporary design. 

For AS level you will study Materials & Components. A record of work undertaken during the 

year is presented to the exam board as a Design Portfolio contributing towards 50% of the 

AS grade. The remaining assessment is based on a written paper reflecting a knowledge of 

materials and components which you will have acquired throughout the year. 

At A2, you will study Design and Manufacture. A single substantial product is to be produced, 

reflecting a greater understanding of the complex relation between design need, 

commercial, marketing and material processes. A written examination will reflect a 

developing knowledge of design in society and manufacturing processes. 

A qualification in product design could lead to a range of further education or career 

opportunities in any design related field. 



DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY - (TEXTILES) 

AS Level only 


The course is currently offered as a one year course to AS level only. It is 

designed to encourage you to take a broad view of design and technology and to 

develop your capacity to design and make products. 

In the first unit, Materials, Components and Application, you will have the 

opportunity to study and work with a variety of textiles materials to enable you to 

understand the working characteristics, physical properties, cost and availability 

which influence the choice of materials in design situations. You will gain 

knowledge of the manufacturing systems and practices used in the textile 

industry and an understanding of how materials and components are worked as 

toiles, prototypes or models as part of a design realisation. This unit is assessed 

by written examination. 

The second unit, Learning Through Designing and Making, is a design and make 

coursework unit and will be assessed under the following criteria: Investigation 

and Clarification of the Problem, Development of the Design Proposal, 

Making/modelling, Evaluation & Testing and Communication & Presentation. 

Coursework may take a number of forms: a single design and make project, two 

smaller projects, and/or a portfolio of work. 

A qualification in textiles could lead to a range of further education or career 

opportunities in any design related field including Product Design; Fashion 

Design and Textile manufacture. 



ENGINEERING DIPLOMA 

CONSTRUCTION AND THE BUILT 

ENVIRONMENT DIPLOMA 

This diploma course will combine essential skills and knowledge, 

hands-on experience and employer based learning. You will 

research and develop ideas across a wide spectrum of topics 

ranging from: planning and design; building techniques both 

traditional and modern; utilities services and community 

housing; surveying and architecture; planning and site 

management; building materials and sustainable environments. 

All levels of this diploma focus on three main themes: 

Design the built environment: Learn how the built environment is 

designed and constructed, how it impacts on people and 

communities, and how history, politics and economics affect it. 

Create the built environment: Develop a range of skills and 

knowledge needed in different industries – e.g. using the tools 

and understanding modern construction methods and materials. 

Value and use the built environment: Analyse the need for good 

management and continuous maintenance, and understand 

the importance of good design, workmanship and teamwork. 

The construction and built environment industry is one of 

the largest and most important economic sectors in the 

UK. This course will give you the skills you need for 

either university or work and is a first step towards a 

career in the sector. It could lead you to a university 

degree in construction management, building services 

engineering, housing practice, planning or 

architecture. Or it could help you begin a career as 

a building services contractor, construction 

worker, electrician, engineer, urban planner, 

property developer, estate agent, or architect. 

This course will open your mind to the extraordinary ways in 

which engineering affects every aspect of our lives today. You will 

research and develop ideas across a wide spectrum of topics 

ranging from : research and development; manufacturing 

processes, computer aided design and development processes; 

cutting, forming and joining processes; technical drawing and 

maintenance procedures; materials and properties; electronics; 

and industrial machinery. 

The diploma in Engineering focuses on three main themes: 

The engineered world: Looks at the importance of engineering in 

the modern world and the impact engineering has on the way we 

live our lives. 

Discovering engineering technology: Introduces basic 

engineering principles such as design, materials, electronics 

systems, maintenance and manufacturing. 

Engineering the future: Looks at what makes innovations 

succeed, how new materials contribute to design and how to 

develop and launch new ideas. 

Engineering is all around us. It plays an important part in what 

we do every day and has an impact on everyone’s life. 

Engineering creates the infrastructure in which we live, work and 

spend our leisure time. 

If you enjoy challenges and problem-solving, are creative, 

innovative, have flexible skills and are interested in new 

technology, your career prospects in engineering are excellent. 

Over 1.6 million people already work in engineering-related jobs 

in sectors like health, entertainment, farming, architecture, 

mechanics, electronics, telecommunication, biomedicine, 

aerospace, transport, design, oil, gas, chemical and nuclear 

energy and utilities, manufacture and building services. 

A diploma in Engineering will give you the skills you need for 

either university or work and is a first step towards a 

career in the sector. 


Business & ICT 

BTEC LEVEL 3 IN BUSINESS 

Course Specification: Edexcel: BTEC Level 3 (National Certificate) 

The BTEC Level 3 (National Certificate) in Business is a practical, work-related course. It is the 

equivalent of two A levels. During the course there is the opportunity to take part in at least two 

weeks work experience in an area of business that interests you. You will also have the 

opportunity to take part in the Young Enterprise Company Programme. 

The course is made up of four core units and eight specialist units. The core units are: 

Exploring Business Activity, Investigating Business Resources, Introduction to Marketing and 

Effective People, Communication and Information. The specialist units include: An Introduction 

to Marketing Research, Exploring Creative Product Promotion, Investigating Recruitment and 

Selection and Human Resource Management in Business. 

You will learn by completing assignments that are based on realistic workplace situations, 

activities and demands. You will focus on a particular subject area and develop a range of 

specialist skills and knowledge. 

There is no examination for this course. All units are internally assessed and graded by your 

teachers. An overall grade for the qualification is awarded to all learners who successfully 

complete all units. Grades awarded are pass, merit or distinction. 

BTEC National Certificates are valued by employers and lead to career opportunities in business 

areas such as Finance, Human Resources, Management or Marketing. Learners may also 

progress into Higher Education Degree Courses or BTEC Higher National Diploma courses. 



BUSINESS STUDIES - A Level 


The course offers a problem-solving approach to Business Studies focusing on case studies to 

allow you to develop a critical understanding of organisations, the markets they serve and the 

process of adding value. 

The first unit at AS level, Planning and Financing a Business, looks at the challenges and issues 

of starting a business, enterprise, entrepreneurs, sources of start up finance, planning cash 

flow, contribution and break even. The second unit, Managing a Business, covers 4 main 

elements: People; Operations Management; Finance; and Marketing & Competition. 

In the first of the A2 units, Strategies for Success, you will investigate financial information, 

measuring financial performance, financial decisions, analysing markets, devising marketing 

strategies, operational strategies including location, R & D, and improving operational 

efficiency, plus workforce planning, measuring performance, structures, and employee 

relations. The final unit, The Business Environment and Change, studies the effects of 

economic, political, legal, social and ethical changes, corporate culture, risk strategy, change 

management, leadership styles, planning for change and decision making. 

This course is a useful introduction and taster for university degree programmes in 

management, finance, business studies, and marketing. 

All units are assessed by written examination. 



ECONOMICS AND BUSINESS - A Level 

Course specification: Edexcel 8EB01 and 9EB01 

The course is built around a core unit with an enterprise theme to enable you to think of a new 

business idea that you research and develop. You will think about how your learning applies to 

your own business idea. It introduces you to international business equipping you either to work 

in or to manage a business in an international context. This is supported by a study of business 

economics and the wider economic environment. 

The AS Units are Developing New Business Ideas, covering the characteristics needed to be 

successful in business and Business Economics which considers the market the business would 

be operating in. 

For A2 level you will study a further two units. International Business gives an introduction to 

the world of international business and the issues which a company trading internationally 

would have to consider and The Wider Economic Environment and Business considers why 

certain markets fail and the influence of government decisions. 

We will use a variety of learning strategies including: independent research, discussions, 

presentations, group work, data response questions, case studies, multiple choice questions, 

and decision making reports. 

All four units are externally assessed by written examinations. 

You will learn and use a variety of transferable skills that are in great demand and are 

recognised by employers, universities and colleges. The subject combines well with a range of 

subjects to lead to university courses in areas such as law, business, accounting, economics, 

geography or politics. 



ECONOMICS - A Level 


To be a good economist you need to be able to skillfully express yourself in both words and 

number. Economics is about coming to understand the forces which drive consumers to buy 

goods and services and producers to offer these same goods and services. It will help you to 

make sense of the decisions taken by Governments to cure unemployment and inflation and 

generate economic growth and international prosperity. You will need intellectual curiosity, a 

desire to work hard and be willing to question what others take for granted and you will be 

expected to apply economic theory to the real world. 

If you are interested in understanding – 

• What is happening in the news 

• How changes in interest rates affect us 

• How and why the Government raises and spends money- 

Economics could be the course for you. 

At AS level, the first unit, Markets and Market Failure, considers the allocation of resources in 

competitive markets. It introduces the concepts of production and efficiency, market failure 

and Government intervention in the market. In the second unit, The National Economy, you will 

study the measurement of macroeconomic performance and consider how the macro economy 

works, including AD/AS analysis, the circular flow of income, and related concepts such as 

economic performance and macro economic policy. 

For A2 level, a further two units are completed. The first, Business Economics and the 

Distribution of Income, covers the firm. It looks at objectives, costs and revenues, competitive 

markets, concentrated markets and the labour market. The final unit, The National and 

International Economy, relates to macroeconomic indicators, managing the national economy 

and the international economy. 

Students who study A Level Economics can go on to be specialist economists at University. 

Careers for graduate economists include working for major banks, employment in the 

accountancy profession or with international insurance companies and large international firms. 



BTEC LEVEL 3 FOR IT 

PRACTITIONERS (GENERAL) 

Course Specification: Edexcel 4345 

You will study three units in the first year. The first Communication and Employability Skills 

for IT, is a compulsory unit that covers the vocational aspects of ICT and examines how ICT 

has affected communications. It helps you to prepare yourself for working in the ICT 

industry. The two optional units that you will study are Digital Graphics and Computers and 

Computer Animation. These are practical units based on using ICT to advance your design 

skills. 

During the second year of the course a further three units are studied. The compulsory unit, 

Computer Systems, is based on understanding the components of an ICT system. The two 

optional units, Developing Computer Games and Website Production & Management are 

practical units covering the creation of a computer game and using and managing a website. 

The course is 100% coursework based. You must pass all assignments to achieve this 

qualification 

This course has a vocational content and can relate directly to employment based in the ICT 

industry or to a job utilising ICT. The course can also allow you to study ICT at University. 



ICT – APPLIED - A Level 

Course Specification: Edexcel 8751 and 9752 (TPS), OCR H115 and H515 (HGS) and CCEA – 6 unit 

GCE Single Award (HBS). 

This course offers a broad based vocational qualification through a practical skills based approach 

with direct relevance to the needs of employers. The course aims to develop a broad range of ICT 

skills and knowledge of the uses of ICT in vocational contexts; to develop knowledge and 

understanding of the components, functions and applications of information systems within a range 

of organisations; to develop an understanding of the main principles of solving problems using ICT; 

and to develop the skills necessary to apply this understanding. 

Currently, each teaching institution follows a different course specification and therefore offer 

different combinations of units. 

AS level consists of three units: 

TPS: The Information Age, The Digital Economy and The Knowledge Worker. 

HGS: Using ICT to Communicate, How Organisations Use ICT and ICT Solutions for Individuals 

& Society. 

HBS: Information & Communication, Software Applications & Tools, and Organisation & 

Information Systems 

A further three units are covered at A2 

TPS: Using Database Software; Managing ICT Projects; and Using Multimedia Software. 

HGS: Working to a Brief - Publishing or Spreadsheets; Numerical Modelling Using Spreadsheets, 

and Developing & Creating Websites. 

HBS: Investigating Systems, Website Design & Management and Multimedia Technology. 

Within these six units you will learn about databases, spreadsheets, specialist ICT software; 

multimedia design eg computer game, animation or video, and systems analysis and design. They 

will provide opportunities for a detailed study of the Internet and learning how to produce a high 

quality website. 

You will develop an understanding of the impact of information systems on organisations’ 

personnel, policies and practices and develop project management skills. 

Assessment for all specifications is through a combination of portfolio based coursework and 

written examination. 



COMPUTING - A Level 


The course is designed to encourage you to develop your problem-solving skills and examine 

your solutions not only from an academic, but also from an ethical and social point of view. 

You will study some of the fundamental ideas behind the design of computers and 

microprocessor based products, and learn the meanings of technical terms. You will also learn 

about the extensive range of software products needed to make a modern computer work. You 

will find out about computer systems and communication developments that have changed or 

will change our social processes, and you will discuss, research and write about the good and 

bad features of those changes. 

You will learn the legislation and other measures needed to get the best out of computer and 

communications technology and you will hear about research and write about systems that have 

tried to use people or computers inappropriately. 

You will write programs to demonstrate your ability to make a computer system perform 

different types of task, discovering the strengths and weaknesses of different software tools, 

and how to use them efficiently. You will learn how data is collected, stored, retrieved and used, 

the steps taken to ensure that it is accurate and about the methods used to keep it secure from 

accidental or malicious corruption. 

You will need to put the theory of designing computer systems into practice to produce projects 

for your coursework units. Assessment is through practical project & examination and written 

examination. 

This course is suitable for students who are considering further progression or careers in 

designing networks or computer systems for specialised applications. 



BUSINESS, ADMINISTRATION & FINANCE DIPLOMA 

This diploma course will combine essential skills and knowledge, hands-on experience and 

employer based learning. You will research and develop ideas across a wide spectrum of topics 

ranging from: managing personal finance, entrepreneurial skills, effective communication, risk 

taking; and responding positively to change. 

This course can offer an exciting and dynamic approach to the understanding of business in a 

global environment, an appreciation of entrepreneurial skills in business sectors and an 

opportunity to develop employability skills. It will give you a unique insight into the diversified 

business, administration and finance industry, which will allow you to make an informed choice 

about your future career. 

Employers are seeking individuals who have an analytical mind, possess good communication 

skills, have the ability to problem solve, adopt a creative approach to work and who are team 

players. This diploma course is an ideal vehicle for developing these skills and attributes whilst 

preparing you for employment or higher education. 

You will gain experience of work through exploring real examples of 

industry related problems with support and guidance from your 

tutors and representatives from industry. 



INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DIPLOMA 

Information Technology is at the heart of the UK economy and is a key source of competitiveness 

for all sectors, opening new markets, increasing performance and driving productivity. The 

Diploma in IT will focus on the use of IT in the world economy as well as developing the 

communication and employability skills valued by employers. 

The course will follow three core themes which run through the specification: 

Business – How organisations work and the role technology can play. 

People - How to work well with other people. 

Technology – How to create technology solutions. 

The principal learning element will include the following: Level One (Foundation): the digital 

world; working with people; technology systems; database systems; and multimedia. Level 

Two (Higher): the potential of technology; exploring organisations; effective communication; 

skills for innovation; technology systems; multimedia; and managing projects. Level Three 

(Advanced): the potential of technology; understanding organisations; professional 

development; creating technology solutions; multimedia and digital projects; managing 

technology systems. 

A Diploma in Information Technology will give you the skills you need for either university or 

work, and is a first step towards a career in IT. It could lead you to a university degree in 

computing, computer networking, information systems, business and information technology, 

computer games software, multimedia or graphic design. You will gain the necessary skills to 

apply for employment in a variety of fields such as: user support; help desk support; computer 

and network operation; systems developer; technical strategy and planning. 


Languages, Literature & Culture 

FRENCH & GERMAN - A Levels 

Course specification: OCR H075 and H475 (French). 

OCR H076 and H476 (German). 

The A level courses build on the skills and knowledge gained at 

GCSE level so that you can talk about and understand issues 

relating to a range of contemporary topics that affect our daily lives. 

Grammatical structures are revised and extended throughout. 

The course consists of the following topics: AS level - Aspects of 

Daily Life; Leisure and Entertainment; Communications and 

Media; Education and Training. A2 level - Society; Environment, 

Science and Technology; Culture 

The course is assessed by examination and each year there will be 

a speaking paper and a listening, reading and writing paper. 

“you can talk about 

and understand 

issues relating 

to a range of 

contemporary 

topics that affect 

our daily lives” 

A Modern Foreign Language will complement any programme of subjects at Advanced 

Level and progression routes are many and varied. Alongside those obvious 

employment areas where knowledge of a foreign language is essential, international 

businesses are increasingly looking to employ people who have experience in using one 

or more additional languages. 

CLASSICAL CIVILISATION - A Level 

Course Specification: OCR HO41 and H441 

This course provides you with the opportunity to study Greek and 

Roman civilisation through a range of topics. As well as 

appreciating Classical literature in translation and various 

background topics we also focus on the culture of Greek and 

Roman society. 

At AS the course covers two modules from the following 

selection: Archaeology and the Classical World; 

Homer’s Odyssey and Society; Roman Society 

and Thought; Greek Tragedy in its Context; 

Greek Historians; City Life in Roman Italy. 

At A2 level two modules from the 

following selection are studied: Roman 

Britain; Art and Architecture in the 

Greek World; Comic Drama in the 

Ancient World; The Epic and the Age of 

Augustus. 

Each year both modules are studied 

concurrently. Lessons focus on discussion of 

the topics and the wider social and historical 

context. An element of independent study is 

expected, and regular essays/context questions 

are set. All units are assessed by written 

examination. There is no coursework option. 



CLASSICAL GREEK - AS Level 

Course specification: OCR H040 

This course is an ideal subject for anyone who relishes an intellectual challenge. It provides you 

with the opportunity to learn Classical Greek and read a selection of Greek literature, as well as 

gaining an insight into the culture, politics and social life of Ancient Greece at significant points 

in history. 

In Year 12 (2 hrs per week) you will learn the rudiments of the Ancient Greek language whilst 

also gaining an insight into the social and political context of the time. You will learn grammar 

and vocabulary via translation in preparation for the study of the set texts. In Year 13 (3 hrs per 

week) two units are studied – unprepared prose translation and prescribed texts. 

All units are assessed by written examination in Year 13. Due to the hours available, a great 

deal of commitment to independent study is expected. 

LATIN - A Level 

Course specification: OCR HO39 and H439 

This course will help you to acquire some understanding of the culture, politics and social life of 

Rome at significant periods in history, whilst studying elements of the language and literature 

of the Classical world. 

At AS two units are studied: Latin Language (unprepared prose translation); Latin Literature 

(prescribed texts covering prose and verse). A further two units are studied at A2: Latin 

verse (prescribed verse text and a passage of unprepared verse); Latin Prose (prescribed 

prose text and a passage of unprepared prose). Both unprepared passages are tested by 

comprehension and translation. Two hours per week will be devoted to the study of the 

prescribed texts; the rest will be spent on language work. An element of private study is 

expected. All units are assessed by written examination in both AS and A2. There is no 

coursework option. 



ENGLISH LITERATURE - A Level 

Course Specification: AQA A 1741 and 2741 

This course encourages you to develop interest in and enjoyment of English Literature, through 

reading widely, critically and independently, across centuries, genre and gender, and through 

experience of an extensive range of views about texts and how to read them. 

There are three alternative areas of study at AS level: Victorian Literature; or World War One 

Literature; or the Struggle for Identity in Modern Literature. You are required to study six texts, 

three of which are set texts (one from each genre) with the others being wider reading. The two 

units are Texts in Context (assessed by written examination) and Creative Study (a coursework unit). 

At A2 you will study six texts covering all three genres. The first unit Reading for Meaning will be 

assessed by written examination and be based on the unit theme Love Through the Ages. The 

final unit Extended Essay and Shakespeare Study, is a coursework unit requiring an extended 

comparative essay of 3000 words. 

Course Specification: AQA B 1745 and 2745 

This course encourages you to explore reading processes, developing interesting and enriching 

ways to approach literary texts. 

AS Level requires the study of six texts. You will focus on comparing the ways in which stories 

are told and thereby construct different realities. The units are Aspects of Narrative, assessed by 

written examination on both prose and poetry, and Dramatic Genres, a portfolio of two pieces of 

coursework, one relating to a Shakespeare text. 

A2 requires the study of a minimum of six texts. You will look at the ways texts reproduce 

cultural meanings and can be subjected to different critical approaches. The units are Texts and 

Genres, assessed by written examination based on Gothic texts, and Further and Independent 

Reading, a portfolio of two pieces of coursework. 



ENGLISH LANGUAGE & LITERATURE - A Level 

Course Specification: AQA A 1721 and 2721 

This course aims to develop your understanding of English Language and Literature as a 

combined discipline. By offering a great deal of choice the specification aims to give you 

opportunities to play to your strengths and deepen your enjoyment. For AS, set texts range from 

Great Expectations: Charles Dickens and The Lovely Bones: Alice Sebold to Othello: William 

Shakespeare and Waiting For Godot: Samuel Beckett. 

At AS, you will study two units: Integrated Analysis and Text Production and Analysing Speech 

and Representation. Both units will be assessed by written examination based on set texts and 

unseen text. 

At A2 level the two units are Comparative Analysis and Text Adaptation and Comparative Analysis 

through Independent Study. The set text for the first unit is non-fiction and will be assessed by 

written examination. The final unit is a coursework unit and you will complete a task on an aspect 

of two texts (one of which must be poetry) chosen from an approved list. 

You will learn through a combination of independent wider reading & research, presentations, 

group and pair work and teacher led discussions. 


Humanities & Social Sciences 

“It develops the ability to 

interpret, analyse and 

evaluate ideas and 

arguments which benefits 

performance across a range 

of other subjects” 

CRITICAL THINKING - A Level 

Course specification: OCR H052 & H452 

Critical Thinking is one of the fastest growing AS/A2 subjects. It develops the ability to 

interpret, analyse and evaluate ideas and arguments which benefits performance across a range 

of other subjects. 

This course focuses on how to understand the structure of arguments – picking out conclusions, 

reasons and assumptions as well as finding the weaknesses in other people’s thinking. It also 

considers the credibility of people and sources to help to make reasoned judgments. 

You will start with an introduction to the important skills within critical thinking. You will improve 

your own thinking, study the language of reasoning and learn about credibility. In the second 

component of the course, Assessing & Developing Argument, you will study a wider range of 

argument components. You will learn to evaluate potential weaknesses and flaws of an argument 

and will compose original arguments in response to stimulus materials. 

At A2 these skills are then applied to dilemmas as part of a decision making process, using real life 

situations involving for example medical ethics and critical reasoning. 

Critical Thinking combines well with absolutely any other subject and the skills you learn can and do 

improve your performance on those other courses. Critical Thinking is also superb preparation for 

work, university and especially for life, driving higher order thinking in a way that is much valued! 



“It provides a 

capacity for analysis, 

an ability to 

communicate and 

an understanding of 

the decision-making 

process.” 

GOVERNMENT & POLITICS 

Course specification: OCR H095 and H495 

This course will encourage you to develop a critical awareness of 

the nature of politics and the relationship between political ideas, 

institutions and processes. You will acquire knowledge and 

understanding of the structures of authority and power within the 

political system of the UK and an informed understanding of the 

rights and responsibilities of the individual. 

For the first AS Unit, Contemporary Politics of the UK, you will study 

political parties, pressure groups, electoral systems and referenda, 

UK parliamentary elections and voting behaviour in the UK The 

second AS Unit, Contemporary Government of the UK, covers the 

constitution, the executive, the legislature, the judiciary and the 

European Union. 

At A2, the two units, Political Ideas & Concepts and Political Ideas & 

Concepts in Practice, involve studying democratic theory and 

democracy in practice, the state, nation, sovereignty and 

globalisation, power, authority and legitimacy, rights, liberty and 

equality, law, order, justice and obligation, conservatism and 

nationalism, liberalism and socialism, and alternative ideologies 

and their impact. 

In addition to your timetabled lessons you will be expected to be 

alert to the course of events in the world of politics through 

newpapers, television and on the internet. All units are assessed by 

written examination. 

The study of government and politics provides a solid basis for 

those proceeding into higher education. The subject is well viewed 

by universities and is recognised as a sound base for further study 

in the arts, humanities and social sciences. It provides a capacity 

for analysis, an ability to communicate and an understanding of the 

decision-making process. 



PHILOSOPHY AND ETHICS - A Level 

Course specification: Edexcel 8RS01and 9RS01 

The aims of this course are to encourage you to identify fundamental questions of human 

existence and to explore such questions within the context of a religious tradition. 

For both AS and A2 levels there are two papers, both are assessed by written examination. 

AS: Unit 1-Foundations 

Ethics - A study of ethical concepts: relationship between religion and morality, utalitarianism, 

situation ethics. A study of ethical dilemmas: issues of war and peace, sexual ethics. 

Philosophy - A study of philosophical arguments about the existence of God: design and 

cosmological. A study of selected problems in the philosophy of religion: problems of evil and 

suffering. A study of philosophical debates about miracles. 

AS: Unit 2-Investigations 

You will study an issue from a choice of ethical or philosophical issues such as abortion, 

euthanasia, life after death. In the exam you will write an extended essay on the topic. 

A2: Unit 3 – Developments 

Ethics - A study of ethical concepts: critiques of relationships between religion and morality, 

deontology, natural moral law, virtue ethics. 

Philosophy - A study of philosophical arguments about the existence of God: argument from 

religious experience, ontological argument and atheism. An exploration into life after death and 

religious language. 

AS: Unit 4 – Implications 

You study three philosophical texts on Religious Language, Religious Experience and Modern 

Philosophy and examine their meanings and how they link to other areas you have studied. In the 

exam you write an extended essay on one of these texts. 

Philosophy and Ethics is a highly respected qualification that leads into a wide range of university 

qualifications and careers that require good verbal and reasoning skills such as journalism, law, 

medicine and politics as well as careers that involve a good understanding of people such as 

nursing, psychology, social work and police work to name just a few. 



GEOGRAPHY - A Level 


The course aims to study the relationship between people and their environment at a 

variety of scales from local to global. It develops an understanding and knowledge of 

geographical issues and offers the opportunity to use and develop geographical skills. 

The course enables you to appreciate the dynamic nature of the subject; how places, 

environments and issues change and how people respond to those changes. 

For the first AS Unit, Physical and Human Geography, you will study a selection from the 

following: Physical: Rivers, Floods & Management; Cold Environments; Coastal 

Environments; and Hot Desert Environments & their Margins. Human: Global Population 

Change; Energy Issues; Food Supply Issues; and Health Issues. The second AS Unit, 

Applied Geography, involves fieldwork and geographical skills. 

At A2, the first unit, Contemporary Geographical Issues, involves studying a selection 

from the following: Physical: Plate Tectonics & Associated Hazards; Weather & Climate & 

Associated Hazards: and Challenges Facing Ecosystems. Human: World Cities – Evolution 

or Revolution; Contemporary Conflicts & Challenges; and Development & Globalisation. 

The final A2 unit will be either a Geography Fieldwork Investigation or a Geographical 

Issue Evaluation. 

All units will be assessed by written examination. Option choices for Units 1, 3 & 4 will be 

determined by each delivering institution. 

Geography is a rigorous A Level and is recognised as such by universities and employers 

alike. Its wide ranging skills, which include analytical, ICT, statistical, research and 

presentation, and subject area, means geography students go on to study a wide range of 

subjects from law to engineering and enter many professions such as working for the 

environment agency, accountancy and marketing. 



HISTORY - A Level 

Course Specification: Edexcel 8HI01 and 9HI01 

This course provides the opportunity to study a diverse range of periods and therefore learn and 

practice a wide range of historical skills. The topics range from Henry VIII to Germany in the first 

half of the 20th century; post war Britain to the Middle East conflict; Stalins Russia to the 

Suffragette Movement. Overall an interesting, challenging and thought provoking set of topics. It 

is not a requirement that you have studied History at GCSE, all we ask for is an interest in the past 

and an enquiring mind! 

There are two units at AS level, both assessed by written examination. Each teaching institution 

offers a different combination of units as follows: 

TPS: Alfred the Great & The Vikings (793-900) and The Norman Conquest & its Impact on 

Britain (1066-1135) 

Henry V111: Authority, Nation & Religion (1509-1540). 

HGS: Stalins Russia (1924-53) and USA & Asia (1950-1953) 

Britain (1860-1930): Changing Position of Women and Sufferage Questions. 

HBS: Civil Rights in USA and Stalins Russia 

Representation and Democracy or Poverty and Public Health 

A further two units are studied for A2 level, one assessed by written examination and one 

coursework unit. 

TPS: From Kaiser to Fuhrer German (1900-1945) 

The Middle East and the Arab-Israeli Conflict, 1900-2001 

HGS: From Kaiser to Fuhrer German (1900-1945) 

Britain 1830-1930 

HBS: Saving Europe at a Cost? (1925-1960) 

Protest and Reform in Britain (1880 – 1992). 

You are encouraged both to take an active part in lessons through research, investigation and 

debate, and to extend your knowledge through wider reading. You learn to express your ideas 

confidently and effectively, and to improve your analytical skills. 

This subject provides a highly desirable set of skills to any potential employer and therefore a 

wide avenue of career options. A study of history provides the ability to examine, analyse and 

evaluate information rapidly and effectively. You are taught to approach subjects in a logical, 

organised fashion yet with a distinct sense of the individual. Your naturally inquisitive nature will 

develop your worldview resulting in a well-rounded individual appealing to higher education and 

the world of work. 



PSYCHOLOGY - A Level 

Course Specification: AQA 2180 A 

The aim of this course is to gain a basic understanding of the topic types, knowledge 

and skills required in the academic study of psychology. This is done through 

looking at the key approaches in psychology – biological; psychodynamic, cognitive, 

behavioural, humanistic and social. You will be expected to take an active part in 

all lessons to fully develop your understanding. 

During the first year you will learn about the basics of psychology through topics 

which include: memory, child development and attachments, research methods, 

stress and stress management, social influence and abnormality. In the second 

year you will study three areas from the following options: sleeping and dreaming, 

relationships, aggression, eating behaviour and gender. You will also study one 

psychological disorder from schizophrenia, depression and anxiety disorders, and 

one application of psychology out of media psychology, addiction psychology, and 

anomalistic psychology (parapsychology). You will learn about wider issues 

surrounding psychology, including the scientific basis of psychology and the design 

of research. 

All units are assessed by written examination. There is no coursework option. 

Careers directly relevant to psychology are clinical psychology, educational 

psychology, counselling, health psychology, sports psychology, occupational 

psychology, all of which can be found at www.bps.org.uk. Other careers where 

psychology is relevant are teaching, the police, human resources, child care, 

the prison service and media. This is not an exhaustive list. 



“develop your own sociological awareness through 

active engagement with the contemporary world” 

SOCIOLOGY - A Level 


During the course you will be encouraged to develop your own sociological awareness through 

active engagement with the contemporary world. Continued study to A2 level will enable you to 

demonstrate a wider range and greater depth of knowledge and understanding and more highly 

developed skills of application, analysis, interpretation and evaluation. 

For AS level you will cover the following areas: connections between different substantive areas 

of Sociology, families and households, wealth, poverty and welfare, culture and identity, 

education, health, and sociological research methods. 

At A2 level you will study: critical awareness of contemporary social processes, beliefs in society, 

mass media, global development, modernity & post-modernity in relation to sociological theory, 

power and politics, the nature of sociological thought and the methods of sociological enquiry, 

crime and deviance, stratification and differentiation, and the nature of social ‘facts’. 

All units are assessed by written examination. 

Sociology has relevance in a wide range of professions. You may go onto University to study 

Sociology or another Social Science. After Higher Education you may go into research and work 

for organisations such as the Police or you may stay in Academia. You may go into a related 

profession such as social work or probation. 


SOCIETY, HEALTH & 

DEVELOPMENT DIPLOMA 

The Diploma in Society, Health & Development will give you an 

understanding of all four sectors: health, social care, the children’s 

workforce and community justice. It introduces you to the principles 

and values underpinning all of the different professions. It shows 

you how the different services fit together and teaches you the 

importance of putting the individual at the centre of those services. 

All levels of the diploma focus on six main themes: 

The sectors in context. Focuses on the political, social and 

economic factors that affect the four sectors today. 

Principles and values in practice. The values and principles that 

inform the practice of everyone across the sectors. 

Partnership working. New work practices mean that services 

work much more closely together to ensure the quality of 

service provision. 

Communication and information sharing. Good communication is 

crucial to people working across the sectors. What are the barriers 

to good communication, how can they be overcome and are there 

tensions between good communication and sharing information 

with other professionals and respecting the privacy of individuals? 

Personal and professional development in the work environment. 

Being able to reflect on own practice is a critical aspect of 

professional development – what did you do well, what can be 

improved, how can you improve your practice? 

Safeguarding and protecting individuals and society. People are 

often working with the most vulnerable people in society. It is 

important to understand what needs to be done to ensure that 

people are kept safe. 

A diploma in Society, Health & Development will give you the skills 

you need for either university or work, and is a first step towards a 

career in the sector. It could lead you to a university degree in 

childhood studies, dietetics, nursing, community justice, applied 

criminology or forensic investigation. Or it could help you begin a 

career as a play worker, a healthcare scientist, a probation officer 

or a victim support worker. 

HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE 

Applied A Level 


This course offers an introduction to the broad vocational area of 

Health and Social Care. The qualification is available as either a 

single award (equivalent to one A Level) or a double award 

(equivalent to two A Levels). Assessment is by a combination of 

written examination and coursework. 

The units at AS level are: Promoting Quality Care; 

Communication in Care Settings; Promoting Good Health; Caring 

for People with Additional Needs; Working in Early Years Care 

and Education; and Caring for Older People. Three units are 

studied for a single award and six units for the double award. 

A further three (single award) or six (double award) units are 

studied at A2: Care Practice and Provision; Understanding 

Behaviour; Child Development; Mental Health Issues; Social 

Trends ; and Research in Health and Social Care 

You will develop a range of research skills, using both primary 

and secondary data. You will learn to work independently by 

effectively planning and monitoring your work load. You will 

develop the ability to meet deadlines and produce well presented 

assignments, through the use of ICT. You build a portfolio of 

completed work both independently and in groups and will 

develop team work and presentational skills. You also undertake 

weekly work experience in either health, social care or early 

years settings to further your knowledge and understanding of 

the vocational area. 



Science & Mathematics 

BIOLOGY - A Level 


The AS & A2 GCE is made up of 3 units each. AS Units: Cells Exchange & Transport, Molecules, 

Biodiversity & Human Interactions, Practical Skills 1. A2 Units: Communication, Homeostasis & 

Energy, Control Genomes & Environment, Practical Skills 2. 

You will learn via a series of practical and theory lessons. Where possible we will integrate external 

visits and field courses to illustrate the factual content. Our approach is to make lessons as 

interactive as possible. We will expect you to review class notes regularly and read around the topics. 

Practical skills are assessed by your teachers for both AS and A2 and will contribute 20% of the 

marks each year. We will give you specific OCR set experiments that we mark and submit to OCR. 

The other units are externally assessed by OCR examination board. For AS and A2 there are two 

theory papers. All questions on these are compulsory. The first unit in each year is shorter, worth 

30% of marks each year, and will be completed by Christmas. The second paper in each year is 

worth 50% of the total marks. 

This is a popular subject as it can lead you into a variety of careers. There is some overlap with 

Chemistry and Geography so the subjects do complement each other. The specification provides a 

suitable foundation for the study of biochemical science or related courses in higher education 

including medicine and related careers. 



CHEMISTRY - A Level 

“A chemistry qualification is widely recognised as 

evidence of logical thinking and an interest in the 

world around you.” 

Course specification: OCR H034 and H434 

The aims of the course are to develop your interest in chemistry, 

to appreciate how society makes decisions about scientific issues, 

to develop your skills, knowledge and understanding of how 

science works and to develop knowledge and understanding of 

different areas of chemistry and how they relate to each other. 

At AS level there are two externally assessed modules. Atoms, 

Bonds and Groups looks at electronic structure, bonding, acids 

and the periodic table; whilst Chains, Energy and Resources look 

at organic chemistry in detail, looking at the reactions of carbon 

based compounds their uses and their effects on the 

environment. There is also a practical component which is 

internally assessed. 

You will learn through a mixture of teacher demonstration, group 

work and practical experiments. There are two theory 

examinations, one taken in January, which covers 30% of the 

work, and one taken in June covering 50% of the work. The 

remaining 20% is assessed through set practical experiments 

that are taken at various times during the course. 

A chemistry qualification is widely recognised as evidence of 

logical thinking and an interest in the world around you. A pass at 

A level is essential for a chemistry degree as well as for medicine 

and veterinary qualifications. It is strongly recommended for 

those taking biological sciences, but links in well with other 

subjects. It can be taken as the only science at A level, because 

although chemistry contributes well to other subjects, it does not 

rely on knowledge from other areas, although to do well, a 

candidate must have confidence in basic mathematical methods. 



PHYSICS - A Level 


This course has been designed to allow you to continue to study physics for one year or for two 

after GCSE. As well as extending your knowledge and understanding of physics, the course 

aims to develop your interest and enthusiasm in the subject. You will also consider how society 

makes decisions about scientific issues as well as helping you to gain a deeper understanding of 

“How Science Works”. 

The course covers the following: AS Units – Mechanics; Electrons, Waves and Photons; 

Practical Skills - this develops investigative skills including making observations, 

measurement and evaluation. A2 Units - The Newtonian World; Fields, Particles and Frontiers 

of Physics; Practical Skills. Both Cosmology and Medical Physics are studied during this year as 

part of the second module. 

A variety of methods are used to help your learning and understanding. Text books and printed 

notes are given to all students. Discussion, group work, use of ICT, lectures and study days are 

also employed. Practical work, both in its own right and as practice for the “Practical Skills” 

units, is an essential part of the course. In this way you will have the chance to learn through 

both independent and collaborative working experiences. 

There will be two written papers at both AS and A2 levels. The assessment of practical skills is 

carried out within school at both levels. This assessment is based on completing OCR set tasks. 

Each task is marked by the teacher using specific OCR mark schemes and is worth 20% of the 

marks each year. 

The course will prepare you for progress into further education, following courses in Physics, 

Engineering, Medicine, or one of the other sciences or related subjects. 



SCIENCE – APPLIED A-Level 

Course Specification: OCR 375 and 775 

This is an ideal course for anyone who is interested in the application of science to the working 

environment. It requires less understanding of pure science compared to a traditional A level, 

contains elements from all three sciences and involves a portfolio approach to coursework. It 

builds naturally upon GCSE courses in applied science or the applied science option in 21st 

century science. 

The course covers the following: AS Units – Science at Work; Analysis at Work and the examined 

unit Monitoring the Activity of the Human Body. A2 Units – Investigating the Scientists Work; 

Applications of Biotechnology and Working Waves. 

The lessons will involve a mixture of theory and practical work, combined with some personal 

research towards the coursework portfolio. This portfolio is comprised of research work based 

on how science is used in the workplace combined with practical exercises that demonstrate your 

ability to use common techniques used in industry. 

Some of the units have internally assessed examinations whilst others are externally assessed. 

The coursework contributes 66% of the final marks. 

This qualification may be used to complement other vocational courses or provide a work-related 

experience for students taking non-vocational subjects. 

A qualification in applied science would be an excellent foundation for any student who wanted to 

work in a scientific career directly after A levels and there are many courses in higher education 

that build directly upon it. 



MATHEMATICS - A Level 

Virtually any career path is enhanced by being able to offer A level 

Mathematics. 

OCR Specification – 3895 and 7895 

The course covers: AS Units - Introduction to Advanced 

Mathematics; Concepts for Advanced Mathematics and Statistics 

1 or Mechanics 1. A2 Units - Methods for Advanced Mathematics; 

Applications of Advanced Mathematics and Mechanics 1 or 

Statistics 1 

You will learn through a variety of methods including problem 

solving exercises and practical tasks. For some units you also 

have to complete a longer piece of coursework. This allows you to 

use the knowledge you have acquired in a more practical 

situation. All units are assessed by written exam with a 

coursework element in Unit 3. 

AQA Specification – 5361 and 6361 

The AQA course provides a traditional examination assessment of 

Mathematics. At AS, two of the papers are Core Pure 

Mathematics, comprising Algebra, Co-ordinate Geometry and 

Calculus, which involves differentiation and integration. For the 

third paper you cover different application areas from Statistics 

or Mechanics. A2 has two more Core Pure papers and another 

paper on Statistics or Mechanics. 

Much of the course will be 'traditional teaching' with you gaining 

confidence in the various mathematical processes whilst improving 

your logic and reasoning. You will gain an understanding of how 

each mathematical process can be applied to different. problems 

and must address real life situations and reduce them to 

mathematical form. There is at present no coursework so 

extended work will come from linking together the different areas 

of Mathematics. All units are assesed by written examination. 

FURTHER MATHEMATICS 

- A Level 

Course Specifications AQA 5371 and 6371 or OCR 3895 and 7895 

You can extend your study of Mathematics by taking AS or A2 level 

Further Mathematics alongside the standard A-level. The course 

serves to reinforce the concepts and techniques of the 

Mathematics specification with problems of a more searching 

nature and will provide a chance to study new and more 

sophisticated mathematical concepts. A strong commitment to 

the subject is required and you must be prepared to work in your 

own time. 

The course can only be taken in conjunction with AS/A2 

Mathematics and is delivered differently across the two years at 

each institution. 

Further Mathematics is suitable for those who wish to study 

Maths based subjects at University such as Engineering, 

Computer Science, Economics, Physics and Maths itself. You will 

be able to show yourself as an able mathematician to Universities 

and the employment market. 


MUSIC - A Level 

Course Specification: Edexcel 8MU01 and 9MU01 

During this course you will continue the key skills of composing, 

performing and listening to music that you studied at GCSE, and 

study music from a wide range of styles and periods. You will get 

the opportunity to take part in lots of performances and to go and 

see professional musicians in action. 

AS Units cover: live performance; a 3-minute composition; 

studying set works and harmony, as well as developing aural 

skills. At A2 you need to prepare a 15 minute recital, compose 

another extended piece and look at more set works and music 

theatre. 

You will learn extended composing skills and analyse a wide 

variety of instrumental and vocal music. You will learn how to 

evaluate your own performing skills and to prepare a varied and 

interesting programme, as well as finding out about the history 

and development of music. 

Performing is assessed through a set of recitals at AS and A2. 

They are marked by your teachers and then moderated 

externally. Composition is assessed externally after you have 

completed your coursework and set works and harmony are 

assessed in an exam. 

This course prepares you for any career or university course that 

involves music or performing arts. It gives you a good experience 

of performance and allows you to further develop all your musical 

skills and interests. 

MUSIC TECHNOLOGY - A Level 

Course Specification: Edexcel 8MT01 

Media, Performing Arts & Physical Education 

Currently the Music Technology course is offered as an AS 

qualification but it is hoped to be able to offer it as a full A2. The 

course is an integration of practical and theoretical work and 

although you do not necessarily need prior experience, it is a 

course which is more suited to those who favour the technical 

side of music, rather than performance. 

The following tasks will be completed for assessment at AS level: 

A sequenced recording based on a skeleton score to be provided; 

an 8-12 track recording of a piece of music of your choice from 

the study area “Popular Music Styles Since 1910”; a creative 

arrangement which you will develop from a choice of provided 

stimuli; a portfolio detailing all the processes for the previous 

three tasks; and a listening exam based on a CD of a variety of 

music extracts. 

By developing your practical skills and aural discrimination, this 

course aims to give you the skills and knowledge you will need to 

progress into the global music technology industry or onto a 

related further or higher education course. 



BTEC LEVEL 3 IN PERFORMING 

ARTS (ACTING) 

Course Specification: Edexcel BTEC National Award (L3) 

This course provides a specialist work related programme of study 

that covers the key knowledge and practical skills required in the 

performing arts vocational sector. The BTEC Level 3 offers flexibility 

and a choice of emphasis through the specialist units. 

The key elements are Performing to an Audience, Principles of 

Acting, Devising Plays, Theatre in Education and Drama 

Improvisation. These are explored through dedicated units which 

involve case studies and practical assignments. 

The course will be delivered within the context of rehearsing and 

developing performance material for a performance event. You can 

therefore expect to undertake a defined performance role as part of 

a performing arts company. You will carry out the work for this unit 

by being part of a performance company and evidence of the 

rehearsal process will be documented using a range of strategies. 

You will produce a Learner Intention Proposal (LIP), detailing your 

roles and anticipated tasks during the rehearsal/development 

process and indicating how your time will be occupied throughout. 

You will also produce a portfolio of documentary evidence. The 

course will also involve a number of performances to an audience. 



DRAMA AND THEATRE STUDIES 

Course Specification: AQA 1241 & 2241 

This course combines the activities of exploring plays, 

creating theatre, performing to an audience and the analysis 

of productions seen. 

The first AS unit is assessed by written examination that can 

be taken in January and June. Two questions – one a 

response to a live production seen and one a study of a set 

play. The second AS unit is the presentation of an extract 

from a published play. 

The first A2 unit involves the study of two further set plays. 

The second A2 unit is the performance by a group of devised 

drama. The assessment also includes your preparatory work 

and supporting notes. 

This qualification has the support of higher education 

institutions as a specialist qualification for drama and theatre 

related courses but equally it provides a worthwhile 

experience for students wishing to use it as part of the entry 

requirements into other subject areas. It is also a useful 

qualification for students wishing to pursue a career that 

involves communication and people-orientated skills. 



“It emphasises the importance of a full 

understanding of the new media which dominate 

the contemporary landscape” 

MEDIA STUDIES - A Level 


This Media Studies course integrates theoretical and practical approaches. It emphasises the 

importance of a full understanding of the new media which dominate the contemporary 

landscape by ensuring that you use such media in your coursework and write about them in 

your examinations. 

The first AS Unit, Foundation Portfolio in Media, requires you to produce two pieces of media 

(print; video; audio or website), from pre-production, preliminary exercise to a more fully 

realised piece. The second unit, Key Media Concepts, is a written examination covering 

representation, institutions and audiences. 

For the A2 coursework unit, Advanced Portfolio in Media, you will engage with contemporary 

media technologies to produce a media portfolio through a combination of two or more media 

and then present your research, planning and evaluation in two or more forms. The final A2 

unit, Critical Perspectives in Media, is a written paper covering theoretical evaluation of 

production alongside a study of contemporary media issues. 

Although this A level does lend itself to working within the media industry it is expected that 

studying Media Studies A Level will enable you to follow any chosen further education or 

career path. 



CREATIVE & MEDIA DIPLOMA 

This course will develop your capacity to think, explore, question, create and communicate. You 

will be introduced to the world of creative and media industries and will explore the Visual Arts, 

Performing Arts and Media, through industrial study visits, live “hands-on” projects and personal 

and group assignments. You will study and practice the skills required to work within the 

different creative industries and learn how creative teams work together. 

This diploma offers an exploration of the creative process in its broadest sense with creative 

practice central to the course. Whether you aspire to be a fashion designer, creative writer, 

advertising director or musician, the diploma offers a broad and engaging learning experience, 

with the opportunities to explore a range of creative and media-related disciplines. These 

disciplines provide a context for learning, in which broader transferable skills are developed and 

applied. These are structured around four integrated themes: creativity in context; thinking and 

working creatively; the principles, process and practices behind the work, and commercial skills 

for creative business and enterprise. 

You will gain experience of work through exploring real examples of industry related problems 

with support and guidance from your tutors and representatives from industry. Progression can 

be to further or higher education or employment in a wide range of sectors, for example, grapic 

design, media, 3D design, fashion & textiles, performing arts or digital imaging. 



PHYSICAL EDUCATION - A Level 

Course specification: OCR H154 & H554 

The course takes a multi-disciplinary approach encouraging the development of different 

methods of enquiry drawn from a range of disciplines. The focus is on participation and 

performance in physical activity as part of a balanced, active and healthy lifestyle. 

At AS level you cover two units An introduction to Physical Education and Practical Assessment in 

Two Activities. The first will focus on three topics: Acquiring Movement Skills; Anatomy and 

Physiology and Contemporary Issues/Socio-Cultural Studies. The second unit involves acquiring, 

developing and evaluating practical skills. 

The two units at A2 level are Principles and Concepts and The Improvement of Effective 

Performance and Critical Evaluation. The first unit will cover the History of Sport; Exercise 

Physiology; Comparative Studies and Sports Psychology. For the second unit you will be assessed 

on one chosen practical activity and on an oral interview in response to a live performance. 

You will be expected to work in groups and engage in independent learning. You must be able to 

participate in practical activity and show commitment to your practical area outside of lesson 

time. Each year you will have a practical assessment in the spring term and a written 

examinaiton in the summer term. 

This course is excellent preparation if you wish to progress to degree level study in Physical 

Education, Sports Science, Sports Studies, Teaching, Leisure & Tourism, Sports Management, 

Sports Technology, Physiotherapy and Coaching. 



L2 AWARD IN COMMUNITY SPORTS 

LEADERSHIP 

Course Specification: Sports Leaders UK – Level 2 

The course is designed to develop a variety of personal, leadership and key skills, 

all applied in a practical environment. 

This is a one-year course and you will cover the following: contribute to organising 

and delivering a sports activity session; establishing and maintaining a safe 

sporting activity; understanding the structure of sport and recreation in the UK or 

home country; understanding and leading fitness sessions; principles and 

practice in running sporting events and competitions; principles and practice in 

adapting sports activities; select plan and lead on an appropriate sporting activity; 

demonstration of leadership skills in the community. 

As much of the course as possible is presented through practical sessions. The 

development of observation and evaluation techniques will be used in each unit. 

You will be assessed by the tutor throughout the course on attendance, leadership 

skills, planning and organising, evaluation and written evidence. In addition an 

external verifier will observe a practical assessment and a report will be 

submitted by the supevisor of the volutary leadership experience. 

SPORT AND ACTIVE LEISURE DIPLOMA 

A diploma in sport and active leisure will give you an understanding of the sector 

and the potential it has for improving the way in which we work, live and participate 

in sport and active leisure. The course focuses on three main themes: 

Sport and active leisure and the individual – Looks at the importance of an active 

and healthy lifestyle, the science of sport and exercise and how the body works. 

Sport and active leisure and the economy – Introduces the sport and active leisure 

industry, its relation to other sectors and its contribution to the economy as a whole. 

Sport and active leisure and the community - Focuses on working with customers 

and the different requirements of specific populations or groups of people. 

The diploma will provide an appreciation of the importance of sport and active 

leisure today, including such areas as: working in sport/active leisure in your 

locality, active and healthy lifestyle choices, the role of science in sport and exercise, 

running a business in the sport and active leisure industry, the impact of media on 

sport and active leisure and maximising equality in sport and active leisure. 

You will gain experience of work through exploring real examples of industry 

related problems with support and guidance from your tutors and representatives 

from organisations such as North Herts District Council, Stevenage Borough FC, 

Shephalbury Sports Academy, Next Generation and Schools Sports Partnership. 

You don’t need to be an athlete to work in this profession, but you should have an 

empathy with the importance of leading an active and healthy lifestyle. 

The sport and active leisure sector is one of the fastest growing in the economy. 

This diploma will give you the skills you need for either university or work and is a 

first step towards a career in this industry. It could lead to a university degree in 

sports science, sports management, health promotion, occupational therapy or 

physiotherapy, osteopathy, dietetics or food science. 


Leisure & Public Services 

HOSPITALITY & CATERING 

DIPLOMA 

The Hospitality & Catering Diploma will provide you with the vital 

skills that employers and universities would like you to have, the 

knowlege that will be useful for you in the workplace or further 

training, and the experience to decide what is right for you in 

terms of career choice and options. 

During the course you will discover the wide opportunities 

available to you in the fast growing hospitality sector. You will 

learn essential life skills such as healthy eating, health 

& safety, and team working, and gain an appreciation of the 

international and cultural influences of the hospitality sector. 

The course includes hands-on experience and employer based 

learning so that you acquire an understanding of the business 

aspects of the hospitality industry and develop practical skills 

such as preparing and cooking world cuisine; providing 

excellent customer experiences and promoting a personal 

professional image. 

Employment opportunities are extensive within the hospitality 

industry, both national and international, from hotels, 

restaurants, airlines, casinos, health & leisure clubs, hospitals 

and care homes. 

HAIR & BEAUTY STUDIES DIPLOMA 

This course will provide: an understanding of the opportunities in 

the dynamic and fast-growing hair & beauty sector; an 

exploration of the creativity, diversity and entrepreneurial activity 

involved in the hair and beauty industry; and an appreciation of 

the influences of the global market of the hair & beauty sector. 

You will learn about a wide spectrum of topics ranging from: 

hair, skin & nail treatments; science & history of hair & beauty; 

event management; exploring media and image; and product 

research, design & development. 

At all levels of this diploma you will gain people skills that are 

highly valued by employers both within and outside this sector. 

Excellent customer service and communication skills are 

important for the success of any business. 

You will gain experience of work through exploring real examples 

of industry related problems with support and guidance from 

your tutors and representatives from industry. The course will 

combine essential skills and knowledge, hands-on experience 

and employer based learning. 

The diploma in hair and beauty studies will give you the skills you 

need for either university or work and is a first step towards a 

career in the sector. It could give you the background that you 

need for a foundation or honours degree in biology, dermatology 

or even business management. Or it could help you begin a 

career as a hairdresser or barber, nail technician, make-up 

artist, beauty or spa therapist. 


Leisure Services 

TRAVEL, TOURISM AND 

TRANSPORT DIPLOMA 

Travel and tourism is a dynamic, fun and rewarding industry with 

people at its heart. It’s made up of a number of industries that fall 

into two main sectors: travel and tourism and passenger 

transport. 

This diploma will give you a good insight into the industry and 

focuses on three main themes: Destinations, Customer 

Experience and Changes and Trends. 

Communication, teamwork, customer service and people skills are 

all important. By working both individually and in teams you will 

become confident in dealing with customers. At higher diploma 

level you will also study products and services, the UK travel and 

tourism sector, the business environment and promotion and 

sales. At advanced diploma level you will cover political and 

economic influences, environmental influences and technology in 

the sector. 

You will gain experience of work through exploring real examples of 

industry related problems with support and guidance from your 

tutors and representatives from industry. This is a constantly 

evolving industry where technological, cultural, business, economic, 

political and environmental factors continue to transform it. This 

makes it a complex, stimulating and competitive industry. 

This diploma will give you the skills you need for either university 

or work and is a first step towards a career in this sector. It could 

lead to a university degree in travel and tourism operations and 

management, transport planning, air traffic control, adventure 

tourism, business studies or hospitality. 

PUBLIC SERVICES DIPLOMA 

Public services are a core part of our everyday lives. Where 

would we be without law and order, education, central and local 

government, the health service, social and emergency services, 

regeneration and development, leisure and the armed forces? 

A diploma in public services will give you an understanding of the 

sector and the potential it has for improving the way in which 

we work and live. You will discover how public service 

organisations operate and gain an appreciation of the social 

values that sustain them. 

The course focuses on how public services work and how they 

contribute to the individual, the community and to business. You 

will learn how different services are funded and look at how 

public services initiatives are promoted. 

At Advanced level, you will evaluate the principles and practices 

of public services, how public finance operates and how political 

neutrality plays an important role. You will also learn the 

principles of marketing in public services. 

You will gain experience of work through exploring real examples 

of industry related problems with support and guidance from your 

tutors and representatives from industry. 

A diploma in public services could lead you to a foundation 

degree in ecology or policing or an honours degree in business 

management, law or social policy. Or it could help you begin a 

career as a fire-fighter, police or community safety officer, 

in heritage management, housing or as an environmental 

health officer. 


Delivery of Courses 

ART DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY 

HBS HGS TPS 

LANGUAGES, LITERATURE & CULTURE 

HBS HGS TPS 

Art & Design (Fine Art) 

Classical Greek 

Design & Technology (Food Technology) 

Classical Civilisation 

Design & Technology (3D Product Design) 

English Language & Literature 

Design & Technology (Textiles) 

English Literature 

Construction & The Built Environment Diploma 

NHC 

French 

Engineering Diploma 

NHC 

German 

BUSINESS & ICT 

HBS HGS TPS 

Latin 

Business Studies 

HUMANITIES & SOCIAL SCIENCES 

HBS HGS TPS 

Business, Administration & Finance Diploma 

NHC 

Critical Thinking 

Computing 

Geography 

Economics 

Government & Politics 

Economics and Business 

Health & Social Care 

ICT (Applied) 

History 

BTEC Level 3 in Business 

Philosophy & Ethics 

BTEC Level 3 for IT Practitioners (General) 

Psychology 

Information Technology Diploma 

NHC 

Sociology 

Society, Health & Development Diploma 

NHC 


Delivery of Courses 


HBS HGS TPS 

Biology 

Chemistry 

Mathematics 

Further Mathematics 

Physics 

Science - Applied 


HBS HGS TPS 

Drama & Theatre Studies 

Media Studies 

= Subject delivered by institution(s) indicated. Teaching will be shared for 

some subjects by at least two institutions. 

Music 

HBS 

= Hitchin Boys’ School 

Music Technology 

HGS 

= Hitchin Girls’ School 

Physical Education 

TPS 

= The Priory School 

BTEC Level 3 in Performing Arts (Acting) 

Community Sports Leadership – Level 2 

NHC 

= Subject delivered within the North Herts Consortium, including North 

Herts College and North Herts Schools 

Creative & Media Diploma 

Sport & Active Leisure Diploma 

Leisure Services 

Hair & Beauty Diploma 

HBS HGS TPS 

NHC 

NHC 

NHC 

Please note that in cases where only a small number of students choose a 

particular course it may not be possible to run it. 

It should be remembered that although the Consortium provides a wide range of 

courses there are other providers, such as North Hertfordshire College, who offer 

courses which are not available in the Consortium. You should investigate the 

alternative options where relevant. 

Hospitality & Catering Diploma 

NHC 

Public Services Diploma 

NHC 

Travel, Tourism & Transport Diploma 

NHC 


Summary of 2009 Leaver Destinations for the 

Hitchin Schools’ Sixth Form Consortium 

TOTAL NUMBER OF STUDENTS 

NUMBER TO HIGHER ED/FURTHER TRAINING 

NUMBER TAKING GAP YEAR 

EMPLOYMENT 

RETAKES/MOVED AWAY/UNKNOWN 

240 

189 

20 

18 

13 

% 

79 

8 

8 

5 

0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 

BREAKDOWN BY SUBJECT AREA 

ART & DESIGN 

BUSINESS STUDIES/MANAGEMENT 

CLASSICAL STUDIES 

COMPUTING 

DRAMA/MUSIC/DANCE 

EDUCATION 

ENGINEERING/TECHNOLOGY 

ENGLISH STUDIES 

HEALTHCARE & THERAPY 

HUMANITIES 

LANGUAGES 

MATHEMATICS/FINANCE 

MEDIA 

POLITICS/LAW 

SCIENCE 

SOCIAL SCIENCES 

SPORTS 

11 

26 

2 

9 

10 

4 

10 

6 

3 

19 

0 

15 

7 

7 

29 

23 

8 

0 3 6 9 12 15 

% 

6 

14 

1 

5 

5 

2 

5 

3 

2 

10 

0 

8 

4 

4 

15 

12 

4 


MAIN ROUTES THROUGH 14-19 EDUCATION AND TRAINING 

GCSE / BTEC 

Foundation, Higher or 

Advanced Diploma 

Further education 

Foundation or 

Higher Diploma 

BTEC / GCSE / A Level 

Higher education 

CONSIDER 

OPTIONS 

14 

Foundation 

Learning Tier 

CONSIDER 

OPTIONS 

16 

Foundation 

Learning Tier 

CONSIDER 

OPTIONS 

18 

Apprenticeship post-18 

Apprenticeship 

Employment 

Employment 

with training 

Employment with training 

Functional skills and personal, 

learning and thinking skills 

CONSIDER 

OPTIONS 

17 

There are, of course, many other options 

after you turn 18, including a gap year and 

volunteering 

Foundation, Higher or 

Advanced Diploma 

The Diploma combines theoretical study with practical experience based 

around a work-related curriculum. It is available at Foundation, Higher and 

Advanced level (Level 1 - Level 3). 

BTEC / GCSE / A Level 

Apprenticeship 

Foundation 

Learning Tier 

BTEC, GCSE and A level qualifications are regularly updated to ensure that they 

remain high quality, relevant and interesting. They can be combined with 

Diplomas. 

Apprenticeships allow students to learn at work and gain qualifications. 

The number and range of Apprenticeships is increasing hugely so 1 in 5 will 

take this route by 2020. 

This is for learners not ready for a full level 2 qualification and include 

a mix of learning to suit the individual. 

CONSIDER 

OPTIONS 

Well before the decision points information and 

advice will be critical to guide young people to 

make the best choice for them in relation to their 

prior learning. 

Some students may change paths at 17 because 

there are more one year courses available after 16.

CONTACT DETAILS 

We hope that you found the information 

contained in the Prospectus useful. Further 

information is available from the Head of 

Sixth Form at each of the schools and at the 

Sixth Form Open Evenings. 

HITCHIN BOYS’ SCHOOL 

Hitchin Boys’ School 

Grammar School Walk 

Hitchin 

SG5 1JB 

01462 432181 

Headteacher: Mr K Wadsworth 

Head of Sixth: Ms J Lansdown 

THE PRIORY SCHOOL 

The Priory School 

Bedford Road 


SG5 2UR 

01462 622300 

Headteacher: Mr P Loach 

Acting Head of Sixth: Mrs M Chapman 

HITCHIN GIRLS' SCHOOL 

Hitchin Girls' School 

Highbury Road 


SG4 9RS 

01462 621300 

Headteacher: Mrs F Manning 

Head of Sixth: Mr S Strickland 

Hitchin 14-19 Consortium Co-ordinator 

Mrs E Leigh 

Tel: 01462 621300 ext 4950 

IMPORTANT DATES 

Tuesday 20th October 2009 

Open Evening at Hitchin Boys’ School 

Wednesday 21st October 2009 

Open Evening at Hitchin Girls’ School 

Thursday 22nd October 2009 

Open Evening at The Priory School 

Wednesday 2nd December 2009 

Deadline for initial Subject Choices 

Friday 5th February 2010 

Deadline for final Subject Choices 

BAINES design & print 01707 876555 Printed on environmentally friendly paper A35061

sixth form consortium - Hitchin Girls School

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