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The Thomas Alleyne Academ
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The Renaissance group is a
collaboration between North
Hertfordshire College, The Thomas
Alleyne Academy, The Da Vinci
Studio School of Science and
Engineering, and The Da Vinci Studio
School of Creative Enterprise.
By combining the expertise of
these four institutions, we are able
to provide an opportunity for
young people to develop the
skills, attributes and experience
necessary for success in their
future careers.
Uniting our resources means that
we will offer a more varied
curriculum which gives our
students access to a wide
range of specialist facilities and
learning environments.
We want to encourage
our students to set goals,
challenge views, debate
and innovate.
We will make sure that our
students are as prepared
as possible for the future,
whether it be to attend
university, secure an
apprenticeship position, or
start their own business.
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The institutions
and leadership
North Hertfordshire College
01462 424242
www.nhc.ac.uk
At North Hertfordshire College, we are changing the way that students are
taught and education is delivered in order to prepare young people fully for
todays employment market.
As a founding member of the Gazelle Colleges Group, our students learn
by doing and gain not only technical and industry specifc skills, but general
business and enterprise knowledge as well.
We believe that this extensive set of skills and experience will make our
students sought after by potential employers and also prepare them to
create their own employment. This year we have built on our existing
commercial services and launched a number of learning companies where
students will work on live projects and gain industry experience relevant to
their course of study.
Signe Sutherland
Principal
Signe Sutherland has worked in both the private
and public sector, starting her frst retail business
in Spain at the age of 20.
Signe was promoted to the position of Principal in
September 2012 following her highly successful
period as Deputy Principal. In this role, Signe
began to develop a new curriculum paradigm with
entrepreneurship at its strategic core and under
her leadership the college has achieved national
recognition for technology and innovation.
North Hertfordshire College ofers a wide range of courses from Entry Level
to Level 5, outside of the Renaissance group ofer.
Subjects include: Animal Care Art and Design Beauty and Holistic
Therapy Business and Enterprise Catering and Hospitality Childhood
Studies Computing and IT Construction Engineering Fashion and
Merchandising Hairdressing Health and Social Care Media Motor
Vehicle Music Public Services Sport Travel and Tourism
For more information about these course options, please visit:
www.nhc.ac.uk
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The Thomas Alleyne Academy
01438 344344
www.tas.herts.sch.uk
The Thomas Alleyne Academy is an increasingly
popular mixed comprehensive secondary school
which was established in 1558. Throughout their
proud history, The Thomas Alleyne Academy has
been committed to achieving excellence in all that the academy does and
prides itself on knowing students and their families extremely well.
The academy provides excellent standards of care, guidance and support
for all members of the community.
The Da Vinci Studio Schools
01462 424242
www.davinci-school.co.uk
Studio Schools allow students to learn through an enquiry-based curriculum
with a greater emphasis on workplace learning and a cross curricular
approach to ensure transferability of content and skills. The Da Vinci Studio
Schools are able to utilise the human and capital resources of some major
local employers, and students have access to some of the most progressive
equipment and are able to see frst-hand genuine application of the subjects
they study within real workplace contexts.
A key component of the Studio School provision is to allow all students the
opportunity to undertake genuine work within the specialist sector, which
in most cases is remunerated. This takes place alongside the academic
programme. In addition, there is an extensive enrichment provision which
afords Studio School students a competitive advantage which lasts beyond
course completion.
The Da Vinci School of Science and Engineering
The Da Vinci Studio School of Science and Engineering
is an exciting ofer for students who are passionate about
ultimately pursuing careers in the science, technology and
engineering sectors. The provision within the Studio School is
destination driven, and has been closely developed with the
needs of employers and Higher Educational institutions.
The Da Vinci School of Creative Enterprise
The Da Vinci Studio School of Creative Enterprise provides
students with the skills and expertise to access a range of
pathways linked to the creative and production arts industry,
and has forged great relationships with employers within the
local area.

The Thom
as Alleyne Academ
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Mark Lewis
Executive Principal
The Thomas Alleyne Academy
and Da Vinci Studio Schools
Mark Lewis was Principal of
The Thomas Alleyne Academy
for two years before being
appointed Executive Principal of
the three schools in September
2014. Before his appointment at
The Thomas Alleyne Academy,
Mark was the Deputy Head
Teacher of a school in Norfolk
and successfully transformed
the leadership of teaching and
learning across the school.
Mark grew up and was educated
in North Hertfordshire, and is
passionately committed to the
young people in our community.
Mark achieved an honours
degree in Modern History at
Oxford University on his way
to becoming a teacher. He
went on to train as a teacher
at Cambridge University and
became one of the youngest
head teachers in the country.
Julie Lewis
Head of Sixth Form Consortium
for Renaissance
Julie took up her role as Head
of Sixth Form Consortium for
Renassiance in August 2013
following many happy years
working for North Hertfordshire
College within the A-level
department.
Although Julie has been a history
teacher for many years, she
has been both the Advanced
Learning Practitioner and A-level
coordinator in recent times. Her
frst degree was in Early Modern
History and her subsequent MA
in War Studies have given her
ample opportunity to teach a
diverse historical curriculum.
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The curriculum
Students will usually choose a combination of up to four A-level subjects or
one Extended Diploma subject. Students may study a combination of the
following subjects:
A-Levels

Anthropology

Biology

Business Studies

Chemistry

Communication and Culture

Computer Science

Drama and Theatre

English Literature

Film Studies

French

Geography

History

Law

Mathematics and
Further Mathematics

Media Studies

Physics

Product Design

Psychology

Sociology

Extended Diplomas

Level 3 Acting

Level 3 Dance

Level 3 Design Crafts

Level 3 Creative Media

Level 3 Graphic Design & Illustration

Level 3 Engineering

Level 3 Production Arts

Level 3 Photography

Level 3 Science


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Course entry
requirements
The typical grades required to study A Levels or a Level 3 Extended
Diploma course are fve GCSEs, grades A* - C, including English and
Mathematics. Applicants will also be required to attend a guidance meeting
prior to enrolment.
Level 2 courses require reduced entry requirements. No matter what
previous grades you have achieved we will have a course of study at a level
to suit you.
Some subjects will require an additional B grade in English at GCSE, and
some Science and Maths subjects may also require a B grade in Maths or
Science. Applicants will be invited to discuss this at a guidance meeting
prior to enrolment.
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A Levels
Anthropology
Anthropology is the study of what it is to be human, our evolutionary history,
how we behave and adapt to diferent environments, and how we socialise
and communicate with one another.
You will be introduced to approaches which anthropologists have taken to
understand the processes of globalisation and its local impact.
Students will study and explore:
The migration patterns of ancestral humans
The dissemination of music, food, people and ideas from around
the world
The impacts of economic integration
Biology (Salters)
This course studies Biology in context, and allows the use of motivating,
up-to-date, contemporary topics.
These include:
Genes and health - the heart, circulatory system and the importance of
lifestyle choices to health, carbohydrates and lipids, transport of
materials, DNA, protein synthesis, enzymes, gene therapy, monohybrid
inheritance, and social and ethical issues.
Plants and the environment - structure and ultrastructure, cell division,
fertilisation, stem cells, gene expression, cell diferentiation and tissue
organisation, biodiversity and the natural resources used by humans,
adaptation and natural selection, uses of plants, and the role of zoos
in conservation.
Business Studies
This course introduces the challenges and issues of starting a business as
well as those faced by existing businesses, including:
Financial planning
Tactical decisions at a functional level
External factors afecting business
Planning and managing change
Chemistry (Salters)
This exciting course includes topics which unfold as a series of chemical
storylines. We look at how we came to be made up of elements - from the
start of the universe in the Big Bang, to how chemists use their knowledge
to develop the chemicals we use and need whilst understanding our
environment and making the most of our resources.
The storylines include:
The elements of life
Developing fuels
Elements from the sea
The atmosphere
The polymer revolution
In year two, students will study: whats in medicine, the materials
revolution, the thread of life, the steel story, agriculture and
industry, colour by design, the oceans, and medicines
by design.
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Communication and Culture
Communication and Culture is a subject in which you take your experiences
and match them to theories. You will work within teams to arrive at
conclusions that are always informed through theory.
Students will:
Explore popular culture versus high culture
Investigate practices, values and products of your own culture
Consider factors that infuence identity
Computer Science
The course has an emphasis on computational thinking, involving abstract
thinking, general problem-solving, algorithmic and mathematical reasoning,
and scientifc and engineering-based thinking.
Students will study:
Programming through a problem-solving scenario
Hardware and software aspects of computing
Social and economic consequences
Communication and networking
Drama and Theatre
This course involves a mixture of both practical and theoretical work.
Students are assessed through written coursework, performance work and
written exam.
Students will undertake:
Practical warm up activities
Acting and rehearsal exercises, and performances
Research and note taking
Discussions and presentations
Directing and elements of theatre design
English Literature
This course is designed to allow students to think critically and
independently about a range of iconic texts as well as the opportunity to
create some original, transformational writing.
Students will:
Analyse narrative in prose and poetry
Explore ideas of genre
Explore connections across texts
Read a variety of infuential works of literature
Film Studies
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'The mix of practical and theory work
makes every Drama and Theatre
lesson different, interesting, and fun.'
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'The best part about Geography is
that you're learning about current
events, and looking at how they can
impact the future of the world we live
in.'
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This course studies cinema as a medium, an art form, and a social and
economic institution. Students will engage with a wide variety of flms from
diferent decades, nationalities and genres including:
South American realism
French surrealism
Hollywood coming of age
Spanish horror
British drama
French
This course enables students to build on their GCSE studies and begin
widening their language skills.
Students will study:
French culture and popular topics
Language skills and critical thinking
Topics that feature in national and international debate
History
This course enables students to learn about the past and discover issues
and events that have infuenced the society we live in today.
Students will study:
Russian history under the last three Tsars (1855 1917)
Post-war British society (1959 1975)
The USSR from the Cold War to the fall of Communism (1941 1991)
A 4000 word individual investigation project
Geography
This course provides students with an understanding of our planet and
addresses key ideas and debates in our world today. A variety of feld trips
will also be undertaken.
Students will study:
Natural global hazards, climate change and global warming
Population change and migration issues
Coastal environments, erosion and management
Tectonic activity and hazards
Law
This course enables students to understand the role law plays in society by
maintaining social order and social control.
Students will study:
Ground breaking decisions of the Supreme Court
Injustices of the law in relation to judicial review applications
Miscarriages of justice cases
Serial killers and the judicial process leading to their convictions
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Mathematics
Mathematics is the study of patterns abstracted from the world around
us. It is clearly a very relevant subject with thousands of applications in
almost all aspects of life. It is an intellectually challenging course where you
will develop your deductive reasoning and logical problem-solving skills.
Students must have performed well at GCSE level before studying
at A Level.
In year one, topics include:
Core mathematics including algebra, co-ordinate geometry,
diferentiation and integration, algebra and functions, sequences and
series, trigonometry, exponentials, logarithms, further diferentiation and
integration.
Statistics including numerical measures, binomial and normal
distribution, estimation, correlation and regression.
In year two, further core principles are studied with another applied unit.
Further Mathematics
This is only available to students with very high ability in mathematics. It
develops a deeper understanding of mathematical principles.
It includes:
Further pure mathematics including roots of polynomials, complex
numbers, proof by induction, diferential equations, matrix algebra.
Diferent options in the applied areas, which may include further
statistics, further mechanics or decision mathematics. Examinations are
equally weighted.
Media Studies
This course will enable students to gain a comprehensive understanding of
media theory and practice. You will look at how new technologies are being
used alongside existing ones to entertain, inform and educate the public.
Students will study:
How magazines are put together
How a television programme is made
How flm companies get audiences to come along to their latest releases
The creation of your own media text
The making of a short flm, the front cover of a magazine, a piece of
photojournalism, a website, or something else of your choice
Physics
This course will develop students understanding of the physical concepts
which apply to everything, from subatomic particles to the largest galaxies,
and will demonstrate their relevance in an increasingly technological society.
Experimental and investigative activities are carried out in order to
develop practical skills. These activities allow the use of knowledge and
understanding in planning, carrying out, analysing and evaluating.
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'If you can speak
French as well as
English, you can
communicate in 78
different countries
around the world!'
Product Design
Product Design gives students the opportunity to spend time creating
interesting and original designs and making prototypes. The subject
covers the skills needed in the real world of design, supporting the quest
for innovative products that would be marketable worldwide. The Design
Centre facilities located at the Stevenage Skills Centre are fully equipped to
support a wide range of design activities.
In year one, students will complete:
An advanced innovative challenge - design and model an innovative
response to a design situation
Product study - a coursework project that begins with the analysis of an
existing product and then developing the design by creating a better
solution
Psychology
Psychology is the study of knowing what makes us tick. Students will gain
a valuable insight into what makes us human.
Students will study:
Human memory
Stress, mental illness and social infuence
Relationships, aggression and eating behaviour
The psychopathology of schizophrenia
Sociology
This course involves the study of society, people and their behaviour.
Students will learn to discuss social issues in a more informed and
systematic way.
Topics studied include:
Gender
Marriage and divorce
Race and ethnicity
Social inequality
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Extended Diplomas
Level 3 Extended Diploma courses are equivalent to studying three A-levels;
achieving three distinctions on completion of a Level 3 Extended Diploma
course is equivalent to achieving three A* grades at A-level.
All of the below courses are available to study at Level 2 for students who
do not meet the entry requirements for a Level 3 course.
Level 3 Acting
This course aims to develop your acting skills and knowledge as well
as prepare you for employment or further study. You will be taught team
working skills; performance skills; research skills; how to work professionally
and be introduced to contacts in the industry. The course is designed to
give you an overview of the diversity of the feld of performing arts and help
prepare you to move on to drama school and university. You will have the
opportunity to study:
Film and TV acting
Directing
Principles of acting
Script writing
Classical theatre
Level 3 Dance
This pathway is designed to prepare you to move on to a dance school,
university or entering employment. Students will have the opportunity to
perform at a number of dance shows that are scheduled throughout the
year, as well as contribute to other roles involved in running a dance show.
You will have the opportunity to study:
Performing to an audience
Performance workshop
Performing Arts business
Historical context
Rehearsing for performance
Performing to an audience
Dance performance
Level 3 Design Crafts
Studying design crafts prepares students for a world of work in art,
design and crafts with a focus on material use, concepts and visual
communication. Specialist optional units include:
Photographic media
Studio techniques
Digital image capturing and editing
Image manipulation
Narrative image making
Multi-disciplinary work in fne art
Level 3 Creative Media (Print Based Media)
This pathway will provide students with the opportunity to gain an
understanding of employment opportunities, job requirements and working
practices in the broadcast, digital and print-based creative media sectors.
The course is practical and project-based, which will enable students to
develop a broad range of technical skills and knowledge.
Students will complete eight core units as follows:
Pre-production techniques
Communication skills
Research techniques
A creative media production management project
Working to a brief
Critical approaches to creative media products
Understanding the creative media sector
Producing print-based media
Level 3 Graphic Design and Illustration
Graphic design and illustration is the heart of visual communication through
shapes, images, typography, and stylised print and digital media. Creativity,
innovation, and working to a brief are key skills needed by someone
working in the design industry. Students will have the opportunity to perfect
their skills on specialist programmes, such as the Adobe Creative Suite,
CAD and project management tools. Specialist optional units include:

Graphic media
Typeface and letterforms
Words and images in graphic design
Design for advertising
Graphic image making
Specialist illustration using computer applications
Level 3 Engineering
Engineers are fascinated by questions of how and why things work in the
world around them, and have a desire to design products and systems to
solve problems. This course will prepare you for the exciting and diverse
world of engineering. You will develop new knowledge and skills in areas
such as:
Engineering materials
Manufacturing
Electronics
Computer Aided Design and drafting
Design and project management
Mechanical science
This course is delivered at the Stevenage Skills Centre where a fully
equipped engineering facility containing a superb engineering workshop is
available.
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'Engineering and
technology has come
so far from the old style
melting of steel through to
high end CAD and CAM
machines, 3D printing
machinery, laser cutting,
and plastic recycling and
remoulding.'
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Level 3 Production Arts
This pathway is suitable for students with a keen interest in the backstage
processes that underpin modern theatre and concert production as well
as performing arts events and exhibitions. Working with local and national
employers, you will develop skills in event production, including technical
and design skills in stage, lighting and sound, as well as organisational and
practical skills in the production and stage management business.
Students will complete fve core units which provide a basic introduction to
design and technical production. These will include:
Production arts workshop
Performing arts business
The historical context of performance
Production arts planning
Production for theatre performance
Level 3 Photography
Photographers are fascinated by the world around them. They try to capture
moments in time or create a story. The ability to be self-motivated and
resourceful, to communicate efectively and to work in a team are essential.
Specialist optional units include:
Specialist craft techniques
3D design media
Small scale working
Small scale design
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'We went to the National Museum
of Science and Industry and saw
the Hubble 3D film at the IMAX, the
screen is as tall as three double
decker buses.'
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Level 3 Science
This two year course will give students the knowledge and specifc skills
needed to meet the needs of modern science industries. There is a strong
emphasis on how similar procedures are carried out in industry, but also on
how to communicate science to others, both in formal reports and projects,
and in attractive poster and visual displays.
The course includes:
Fundamentals of science, using science in the workplace, scientifc
practical techniques, using mathematical tools in science, physiology,
biochemistry, microbiology, electrical circuits and their applications, and
biomedical science.
Perceptions of science, working in the science industry, genetics and
genetic engineering, chemical analysis, medical physics techniques,
chemical laboratory techniques, astronomy, diseases and infections and a
scientifc project.
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How to apply
Students currently studying in Year 11 are welcome to apply for courses at
the Renaissance group as early as possible.
Please complete a Renaissance group application form, available from
reception at all of the Renaissance group locations, or you can download
from www.nhc.ac.uk/renaissance
Please post your completed application form back to:
Renaissance Applications
Central Enquiries
North Hertfordshire College
FREEPOST (SG145)
Hitchin
SG4 0YJ
Or hand the completed application form into The Thomas Alleyne Academy,
North Hertfordshire College or The Da Vinci Studio Schools.
For information on careers advice and guidance or help with applications
please call 01462 424242 or email enquiries@nhc.ac.uk.
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Locations
The Da Vinci Studio School,
Stevenage Centre, Monkswood
Way, Stevenage, Hertfordshire,
SG1 1LA
The Thomas Alleyne Academy,
High Street, Stevenage,
Hertfordshire, SG1 3BE
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MARTINS WAY A1072

The Da Vinci Studio School,
Broadway, Letchworth
Garden City, Hertfordshire,
SG6 3PA
North Hertfordshire College,
Stevenage Centre, Monkswood Way,
Stevenage, Hertfordshire, SG1 1LA
The Thomas Alleyne Academ
y