Peter Symonds College

Prospectus 2015

EST. 1607
Contents
Welcome 3 Entry Requirements 20

Why Choose Peter Symonds? 3 Level 3 Courses (Advanced) 22

Opportunities to be stretched 4 BTEC Courses 76

and challenged
Your Study Options - Level 2 80
Extended Project Qualification 5
Vocational Courses 82
How to Apply 6
Boarding 87
Application Diary 7
Frequently Asked Questions 88
College Life 8
Public Transport Links 89
Supporting You...Your Studies 11
and Future Plans Course Directory 90

Supporting You... Your Life at College 12 Campus and Local Area Maps 91

Enrichment - Activities at the College 14

Sport 16

Your Study Options Level 3 18

Welcome
Welcome to our College Prospectus for 2015. As you
read it, I hope you will find it useful and informative,
but it is impossible to tell you all about Peter Symonds
in a few pages so please do visit us during one of our
Open Evenings and see the place for yourself. There is
a tremendous range of opportunities on offer and you
have some very important choices ahead of you.
You have probably heard very good things about us. We
are very proud of our excellent reputation. A brilliant
mix of motivated students, dedicated staff and fantastic
facilities makes Peter Symonds a vibrant and positive
place to study. Ofsted has rated us as Outstanding
in every respect. Even so, we see each year as a fresh
challenge and are always looking for ways to improve.
With sixth form students from some 150 schools, Peter Stephen Carville
Symonds is a sizable community. Nevertheless, we work Principal
hard to make this a supportive and friendly place to
study, with every student treated as an individual.
Our unofficial College motto has long been
Counting in Ones.
I very much look forward to welcoming you to the
College in September 2015.

Why choose Peter Symonds?

Outstanding ...says Ofsted Exceptional Support
Every time the College has been inspected by Ofsted, it has A comprehensive network of support lies behind much of the
been judged to be 'Outstanding' - the top grade available. success of our students. This takes many forms, depending on
The inspection reports are emphatic in their endorsement of individual need. For example, regular lunchtime workshops
the quality of teaching and learning and support for students are offered in virtually every subject and study skills
at the College. workshops are operated as part of the study
support provision.
Excellent Exam Results Unusually for a sixth form college, we have a large on-site
Once again the Colleges exam results exceeded national Careers Service with qualified advisers who provide help with
averages with pass rates of approximately 99% at A Level, choices about your future. In addition, our friendly Student
92% at AS and 99% for BTEC qualifications in 2013. Services department aims to help you cope with the pressures
With 100% passes in 37 courses, it is not surprising the College you feel or any problems you may have. The Study Support
has featured in the top ten of the National College League team works with students who have a specific learning
Tables for A Levels every year since they were first published difficulty, disability or chronic health condition.
in the early 90s.
'Counting in Ones'
Outstanding Progression to University We have a pastoral system which values and encourages each
In 2013, 1,302 students went on to university with 535 individual. You will have a personal tutor and be part of a
accepting places at the sought-after Russell Group tutor group. We give you a target minimum grade to aim for
universities. 48 students went to Oxford and Cambridge, and and exceed. At Peter Symonds, most of our students achieve
a remarkable 45 students accepted offers to study Medicine. higher grades at A Level than would be expected from their
entry grades at GCSE, and far fewer students than would be
Our applicants to the top Russell Group universities are
expected leave college mid-way through their studies.
almost 50% more likely to secure a place than applicants from
other schools and colleges.
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 Opportunities to be
stretched and challenged
Peter Symonds offers many opportunities for students. There is extra support available for
students wishing to go on to read medicine, veterinary science or dentistry. There are many
opportunities for students to stretch themselves intellectually, including taking part in
Olympiads for Computing, Mathematics or Biology, national competitions such as the Target
2.0 Bank of England Interest Rate Challenge or the Cipher Challenge. There is also the Authentic
Biology Research Symposium, which enables students to carry out genuine academic research
projects with the support and guidance of researchers from the University of Southampton.

Gifted and Talented Support for entry to competitive

Many Symonds students fall into the gifted and talented degree courses
category. We do not believe that our students should be Students wanting to apply for medicine, veterinary medicine
corralled into special groups, but we do provide numerous and dentistry can access careers talks and specific help with
opportunities to maximise students potential. completing their applications and preparing for interviews.

Lunchtime Workshops Music and Performance

Virtually all of our academic courses run lunchtime Ensembles, orchestras, choirs and jazz bands provide a wide
workshops in addition to timetabled classes. These give you variety of opportunities for talented musicians. Symonds also
an opportunity to investigate your subjects in more depth. hosts the Hampshire Specialist Music Course. Dance and
Drama productions showcase other talents. Specific help is
Oxbridge Support available for supporting CUKAS applications (Conservatoires
We are very proud of the success of our students. All UK Admissions Service).
interested students are able to attend talks and presentations
from representatives of both Oxford and Cambridge Talented Sports Performers
Universities. Oxbridge applicants receive one to one support, This scheme is aimed at supporting gifted students by helping
which includes mentoring from current Oxbridge students, them to manage and balance sporting, personal and
practice interviews and application advice. academic demands.
Current students on the scheme include:
HE+ and the University of Cambridge
Joe Marchant (England U18 and Harlequins Rugby),
The University of Cambridge has nominated Peter Symonds
Joe Andrews (Cycling), Christopher Amedu (Basketball),
as the hub college for its HE+ Project in Hampshire. The
Matt Chant (Athletics - 400m), Ross Mackley (Sailing - Laser
HE+ Project is designed to encourage Lower Sixth students
Radial), Robyn Bell (Rowing), Cameron Duncan (Hockey),
studying in state schools and colleges to apply to Cambridge
Laura Evans (Karate Goju-Ryu), Morgan Dibb (Sailing
and other top universities, as well as providing them with
420s), Robyn Creeden (Hockey - Goalkeeper), Emily Hewitt
academic and application support.
(Canoeing - Sprint & Marathon), Flora Gibbs (Horse Rider /
Launched in Hampshire in 2013, the Project has increased Eventer), Ross Green (Badminton),William Arnold (Cricket),
from 250 to over 400 sixth form students from Andover, Anna Prescott (Sailing 29er), Isabella Talbot (Swimming).
Brockenhurst, Itchen, Peter Symonds and Richard Tauntons
colleges. This programme offers students a real insight into
university style learning and the options available to them
once they have completed their A level studies.

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Extended Project
Qualification - EPQ
Want to develop an idea or interest beyond your chosen subjects?
Staff supervisors support students who choose to undertake their own project and guide them
through the process of planning and producing the final product. This may take the form of a
written report or an artefact such as a piece of music, a play or a computer program.

What is the EPQ?

Martina Richeldi
The Extended Project Qualification is a course that students
Liceo Classico LA Muratori (Italy)
can take up in their second year at College. The qualification
is equivalent in size to half an A level and provides extension
for students beyond the subject matter of their other courses
while also helping them to develop skills essential for higher
education and is very useful in any future career.
Students choose the subject matter of the project and often
choose titles which require research from a number of
different subject areas. Universities welcome this qualification
and there are many examples of students being able to discuss
their projects in detail at their university interviews.
In some cases, students choose to pursue practical projects
such as making a robot or designing a theatre set. With
such wide-ranging titles chosen students often undertake
Subjects: Chemistry, Economics, Extended Project
research outside college for example at university libraries Qualification, Human Biology, Latin and Maths.
or local museums.
Peter Symonds is quite challenging and
To support Biology projects the College works in partnership demanding. Most of the subjects require work on
with Southampton University. This partnership enables a daily basis; however, the satisfaction and reward
students to access specialist equipment and to devise and makes it all worth it. Studying at Symonds is fun,
carry out their own research with advice from Southampton there is always something going on!
University research students.
Students excel in their projects. In the last 3 years more than
70% have achieved grades A*-B.

What the students say.

"I have gained valuable skills for university from completing
an Extended Project, such as experience in using the Harvard
Referencing System. I am also pleased that I have been offered
a lower entry requirement for studying Geography at Sheffield
University if I achieve a B in my project."
I found the project very helpful to discuss at my Oxford
interview for law. They were also interested in how I planned
the project and went about completing it and I think that the
self-control needed to complete the project was an important
topic for the interviewers."
The project is a great opportunity to research something that
you are passionate about.
Overall..the EPQ is
hard work, challenging and very stimulating.

5
 How to apply
We consider applications from all suitable students, provided we have an appropriate course
for them. We use criteria set out in our Admissions Policy when making offers. A full copy of
our Admissions Policy is available from the Admissions Office on request or on our website at
www.psc.ac.uk/howtoapply.

Apply Online
www.psc.ac.uk/apply
from 1 September 2014 to 12 December 2014
We expect all students to apply using our online
application system. You will be able to save all your
information as you go and check everything that you
have entered before you submit your application. You
can print out a copy of your application to keep.
If you are unable to apply online, please contact
the Admissions Office for a paper application.
If you have any particular requirements for an alternative
version of the application form, please contact the
Admissions Team.
If you have any questions about our application process,
please contact the Admissions Team who will be happy
to help you.

01962 857555
admissions@psc.ac.uk

6
Application Diary
10 & 11 July 2014 Open Evenings for students in Year 10 (moving into Year 11) 6pm 9pm
Please come with your parents or with a group of friends to have a look around all the facilities. This is an
opportunity for you to discuss the many subjects on offer with our teaching staff. You will also be able to
meet students who are currently at the College to discuss college life and how it may differ from school.
1 Sept 2014 Applications for 2014 open
You will be able to apply online from this date at www.psc.ac.uk/apply.
If you do not attend one of our partner schools, we will send you a reference
request form to give to your school to complete.
Sept - Nov 2014 Your school careers events
Our Admissions Team attend events at many local schools. Please come to see us and find out more
about the College and how to apply. This is a chance to have your questions answered.
13 Oct 2014 Hampshire Specialist Music Course Presentation
For all students considering applying for the HSMC, their parents and teachers. Please attend
our presentation on Monday 13 October 2014, at 6.30pm, Recital Room, College Centre.
15 & 16 Oct 2014 Open Evenings 6pm 9pm
This is a second opportunity to come and look around the College. The format is very
similar to our July Open Evenings. Again you will be able to find out information about
the subject areas, meet the staff and chat with some of our current students.
31 Oct 2014 Deadline for Boarding applications
Oct 2014 Interviews
Mar 2015 These are informal meetings to talk through your course choices, discuss our
expectations of our students and to talk about student life at College.
We may not be able to interview every applicant. If we cannot interview you, we will place
your application in a reserve pool and may be able to interview you late in the Spring term.
12 Dec 2014 Application Deadline
All applications must be received before 4pm on this date. Anybody wanting to apply after this
date will need to call the Admissions Office . All late applicants will be placed on a reserve list.
Jan / Feb 2015 Hampshire Specialist Music Course Auditions
Jan - Mar 2015 Offers of Places
If you have been interviewed, there are three likely outcomes:
you will receive an offer of a place
your application will be placed on a reserve list, which means that we are unable to guarantee a place
no offer will be made
Although we start interviewing in October, no offers will be made until January 2015.
1 & 2 July 2015 Taster Days
This is an opportunity for you to spend a day at College trying out
your subject choices, meeting staff and other new students.
20 Aug 2015 GCSE Results
We hope you achieve the grades you are expecting. If not, contact the Admissions Office for advice
prior to enrolment.
25 - 27 Aug 2015 Enrolment
You will be allocated a time to attend on one of these days and will be with us for around two hours.
It is essential that you attend. When confirming course choices, priority will be given to students who
are able to attend enrolment. We may not be able to confirm the preferred subjects of late enrollers.
25 & 28 Aug 2015 Sports Team Trials
Team trials are the only chance you have to apply for a team place.
7 Sept Start at College
Details about your first day will be given to you at enrolment.

7
 College Life
Our campus, hidden in the heart of Winchester, has a university atmosphere. Nestling amongst
acres of green, buildings both old and new house state of the art studios, science laboratories,
a Learning Resource Centre, media suites, IT rooms and even a radio and television studio. We
have several cafes and social spaces, sports fields and a Sports Hall with a well-equipped gym.

With around 3,600 full time students on campus, life at A. Examined B. Independent
Peter Symonds will be very different from your experiences Courses Study
at secondary school. We hope you will enjoy being in a more
adult environment and will be looking forward to being
independent and taking much more responsibility for your
own learning.
While we hope you will meet lots of new people and feel part
C. Tutorial
of the Peter Symonds community, your success depends upon Guidance
you being able to manage your time. Our expectations of our and Support
D. The Symonds
students are high and we will set you challenging targets. We Lecture Programme
will be working with you over the next two years to help you E. Enrichment
achieve the best grades you can and to help you to become Activities
independent learners. In general, we expect over 85% of our
students will go on to university.
A Typically five lessons per week per subject, so a student
Our College day starts at 8.30am and finishes at 4.35pm, but studying four AS levels (or the equivalent) will have 20
you are unlikely to be in a class all day every day. In fact, you lessons a week in their chosen subjects.
will get quite a lot of study periods built into your day. How
you spend this time is up to you. You are only required to B It is crucial that students take responsibility for their
be on campus when you have a timetabled session, but the own learning outside the classroom and make use of the
management of these study periods is key to your success Learning Resource Centre (LRC) and subject workshops.
at the College. What your timetable does not show is the
Typically, the equivalent of five sessions per week of private
amount of work you will be expected to do outside of the
study per subject will be needed.
classroom. There will be regular homework set in
each subject.
C Tutorial guidance and support through two half hour
Each week you will need to spend about as much time tutorials each week, plus regular one to one reviews.
doing private study (in and out of college) as you spend
in the classroom. D The Symonds Lecture Programme. There will be regular
sessions during the academic year.
We hope your time at Peter Symonds College will be an
extremely positive experience and we aim to support you
E Enrichment Activities. Typically, one session per week.
in reaching your goals.

8
9
10
Supporting You...
Your Studies and Future Plans
We place great emphasis on supporting and guiding you personally and academically. You are
important to us and we will do everything we can to try to make your time here as enjoyable
and productive as possible.
and newspapers, a wide range of online resources, a DVD
Personal Tutors collection and 17,000 books that support your studies as well
Your personal tutor plays a key role in your life at College. You as wider interests. A fiction collection is also available.
will meet him/her and your tutor group twice a week as well
You will also have access to over 300 PCs and laptops in this
as having regular one-to-one tutorial sessions. Your tutor will
area alone, which you can use for your studies. You will be
get to know you well, monitor your progress and attendance,
given your own personal network account which allows you
support and guide you through your time at College and help
to use colour printers, scanners and photocopiers. The College
you to decide on your future plans.
is fully wireless-enabled so you will be able to use your own
laptop or mobile device anywhere.
Lead Tutors
Our friendly team of professional and experienced staff are
Lead Tutors work with a team of tutors and help them to
happy to help you find the information you need, answer any
support their tutor group. Students with complex problems or
of your IT queries and support your use of online resources
those which take time to resolve are often referred to a Lead
and audio-visual equipment.
Tutor for support and guidance.
We are open from 8.15am to 7.30pm Monday to Thursday
Careers Education and Guidance and 8.15am to 4.30pm Friday. We are also open from 10.00am
The College holds the Investor in Careers quality award, to 3.00pm each day in the College holidays (apart from
demonstrating the high priority given to delivering Christmas and the summer).
appropriate careers education, information, advice and
guidance. Our own professional careers advisers are on hand Subject Workshops
to provide one-to-one interviews, drop-in advice and job- Most subjects operate subject workshops at lunchtime.
seeking support. Staff are always available to support you, These are available to all students. It might be that you are
whatever your need. stuck and need some individual help with a piece of work,
or you might want to join a revision session or investigate
We have an extensive range of information in our Careers
a topic in more depth.
Library including computer guidance packages, university
prospectuses and job vacancies. Special events run by the
department include an Employment Fair, Choices 4U: degree
Study Skills Support
or not degree? (Higher Education and Employment events), a Learning Advisers are available to talk through any study
Careers Week and a Gap Year Fair. skills concerns and help you with learning strategies. You are
welcome to come along to daily study skills workshops or to
With over 85% of students progressing onto higher or further
make an individual appointment if you would like help with
education, great emphasis is placed on supporting and
organising your work, managing your time, writing essays or
guiding students with their applications.
revision. All subject areas also have regular drop-in workshops
and you will be required to attend some to support you with
Ashurst Learning Resource Centre
your learning.
Our Learning Resource Centre (LRC) provides a light and
spacious environment in which you can find the resources
you need to support your learning. We provide over 500
individual study spaces in silent and quiet study areas and
seminar rooms for group work. We have over 70 journals

11
 The Study Support Department English as an Additional Language (EAL)
We have a team of well trained and experienced staff who If English is not your first language you may be offered one-
will discuss individually a students specific needs and are to-one or small group teaching by the Study Support team
available to support you during your time at College. If you to improve your spoken and written English. You may be
have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), please share able to work towards the International English Language
this information with us through the application process. Testing System (IELTS), which is widely recognised as an entry
The department provides quiet study space, in addition to requirement for further and higher education.
provision of specific equipment. We welcome applications If you would like to discuss any additional
from students with learning difficulties, physical and sensory
support needs, please contact our Study
impairments and medical conditions. Although situated on
a hilly campus, adaptations have and will continue to make Support Team on
college more accessible, ensuring all students can participate
fully in college life.
01962 857556
Should you require temporary support, for example having or email
broken a leg or arm, arrangements can be made for short term
provision. Our College Nurse is also available during college
studysupport@psc.ac.uk
hours for medical advice and emergency First Aid.
It is important that you tell us on your application form
whether you will require any extra support, or whether you
have had any access arrangements for exams at school; for
example, extra time or the use of a word processor.

Supporting You...
Your Life at College
Whether you want to reserve a bike locker, raise money for charity, join the Student Union,
buy a calculator or ask for financial advice, Student Services will be your first port of call.
This student hub is based in the busy Paul Woodhouse Centre and we look forward to
seeing you on a regular basis.

Student Union Charity Involvement

The Student Union represents all students in meetings with Cake sales, sponsored events, volunteering -
staff, senior managers and outside bodies. They work closely whichever way you wish to support a charity, we
with Student Services to organise events, awareness-raising can provide support and guidance along the way.
campaigns and fundraising activities. You can become
involved in the Union as the representative elected by Information and Support
your tutor group or by being elected as an Executive The Student Services Team are here to help with any
Officer in a college election. practical issues (lockers, calculators, lost property etc)
as well as providing support on many topics which may
Events affect you - financial concerns, health issues or leaving
Diversity Festival, Love Week, Health and Wellbeing Fair, home. We can also arrange counselling appointments.
Road Safety Awareness Week these are just a few of the
events recently organised by Student Services, with the
help of the Student Union. Often with a focus on health
issues and frequently including a charity fundraising
element, these are fun events to get involved with and
bring together students from across the College.

12
 Student Support Funds
Students from a low income household (under 25,000 approx.) who have difficulty meeting the specific financial costs of
attending College may be eligible for financial help from the Student Support Fund. This is a cash limited fund, so payments
will be targeted at supporting travel costs and books/equipment. Application forms and further information will be available
from Student Services at enrolment.
Students who are looked after by the Local Authority (in care), a care leaver, a parent, or living independently and claiming
Income Support, will be eligible for a bursary.
Free college meals are also available for those who meet the eligibility criteria.

Counselling Service (BACP Accredited)

Lucy Bird
Our experienced counsellors are available to talk to
The Romsey School
you about anything that is bothering you, whether
it seems big or small, related to college life or not.
Appointments are treated in the strictest confidence.

Chaplaincy Service
The chaplaincy service is open to students of all
faiths or none. We have two chaplains who regularly
call into the College to offer the opportunity for an
informal chat and encourage inter-faith dialogue.

College Bookshop
The bookshop sells textbooks, with at least 10% discount
on RRP, and stationery. You can also make personal book
orders. Student Services operates a second-hand bookshop Subjects: Environmental Studies, Health and Social Care,
Human Biology and Psychology.
with big savings on books compared to new prices. Activities: Christian Union

Equal Opportunities I love the challenge of new subjects and learning

new things. I really appreciate the regular detailed
The College is fully committed in all of its functions and
and constructive feedback from staff. In workshops
activities to eliminating unfair discrimination, to promoting teachers can give you 1:1 support and advice on any
equality of opportunity and fostering good relations between topics you are unsure about which really boosts my
people of different groups, including groups characterised by confidence. Study Support have been really helpful
age, disability (including mental health), gender, gender re- and reassured my exam anxiety by teaching me
assignment, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, new exam techniques.
sex and sexual orientation. We take active steps to promote
equality of opportunity and celebrate diversity and will take
action to prevent racial or sexual harassment, sexist or racist
jokes and insults, bullying and any other form of intimidation Looked-after Children and Care Leavers
or discrimination. We are committed to ensuring that If you are a looked-after child or care leaver, support
disabled people, including those with learning difficulties, is available to help you financially and personally.
are treated fairly. Please let us know on your application and we will
We will make any reasonable adjustments to provision discuss this support further with you at interview.
to ensure that anyone with a disability is not
substantially disadvantaged. Young Carers
If you have caring responsibilities for a member of your family,
Safeguarding Students please let us know on your application and we will discuss
At Peter Symonds, we recognise we play a large part in the support available to you in College at your interview.
safeguarding and promoting your welfare. We aim to
provide good lines of communication with trusted adults,
clear procedures and policies and an ethos of safety and
protection. Our focus is on maximising opportunity
and minimising risk and enabling you to achieve the
best possible outcomes. Where appropriate, we work
closely with the local Childrens Services Department.

13
 Enrichment -
Activities at the College
In addition to your academic studies, you will participate in our Activities Programme. We run
a wide range of activities, catering for all tastes. Some of the courses on offer are accredited,
leading to a certificate, and some are just for fun! You may participate in a sporting activity
or one of the many other activities on offer.

You will gain a tremendous amount from participating in

activities at college. Those who interview for jobs, training Joe Marchant
schemes and places in higher education want evidence Henry Beaufort School
of wider achievements as well as good examination
performance. They want to know about leadership skills,
breadth of experience and enthusiasm. You can gain all
of these attributes here at Peter Symonds. The activities
you take part in will be part of your timetable and your
tutor will use details of the skills you have developed
when writing your UCAS/ Employment reference.

New activities during 2013-14,

thanks to our Sports Maker
Team 19 5-a-side Football League
A lunchtime tournament on the Astro with 28 teams,
all supported by a large number of students. Subjects: BTEC Sport (Extended Diploma)
Activities: Mens Rugby (Team Captain)
Indoor 24 Cricket I would recommend Peter Symonds College to
In conjunction with the England and Wales others because everyone here is very supportive
Cricket Board (ECB) students were able to and they help you with your specific needs. They
attend this weekly session in college. give you independence to make sure you are doing
things for yourself, but they are still there to offer
British Schools Karting Championships (BSKC)
support with decisions. My course and activity
We entered two teams this year into the BSKC.
have also taught me valuable life skills such as
time management, determination, team work
and leadership.

14
Here is a selection of enrichment activities from 2014
7 Radio Film Making Pottery
Anatomy and First Aid* Practical Wildlife
Physiology History Film Club Conservation
Audition Prep History Of Art Robotics
Brass Higher Sports Leader Shakespeare Plays
Chess Award* Strings
Choir Islamic Society Target 2.0
Christian Union Jam Bands Uganda Expedition
Chartered Institute Jazz Music And Fundraising
Of Legal Executives Kenya Expedition Volunteering
Computer Games and Fundraising Community
Programme Libra Foundation Wednesday Recital
Contemporary Music Music Theory *courses gaining external
At One accreditation
Personal Finance
Conversational
Languages
Critical Debate
Community Sports
Leader Award*
Dance Company
Dance Leaders Award*
Duke Of Edinburghs
Award
Fantasy Football League
Film Club International

15
 Sport
Sport is a key part of life at Peter Symonds
for many students. As a college, we have a
long sporting history and regularly achieve
success in league, cup, county and national
competitions. If you wish to compete
competitively you will need to attend team
trials during Enrolment Week.
However, if you enjoy your sport but do not want to
play within a College team, you can pick up one of our
recreational sports. Our College Sports Maker has set up
many more recreational sports to increase participation
and enjoyment among students.
The student-led Sports Development Team has helped
with activities such as the Red Nose Day Run for Fun, the
Wheelchair Basketball Event for Children in Need, the
Womens Football League Event and a Rowing Challenge.

Recreational Sports Activities

The activities below are a selection of what Peter Symonds College offers as part of the
Activities Enrichment Programme.
5-a-side Football Tournament Hip Hop Dance Recreational Table Tennis x 2
(Team 19) Hockey Development Squad Tchoukball
Archery Indoor Rowing Tennis Development Squad
Recreational Astro Football x 2 Kwik Cricket Recreational Tennis
Recreational Badminton x 2 Multi Gym All Wheelchair Basketball (available
Cheerleading Multi Gym Fitness for Females as part of the IM Basketball)
Freestyle Dance Netball Development Squad Wheelchair rugby
Dodgeball Skateboarding Freestyle Yoga
Futsal Snowsports (Skiing and
Global Rock Challenge Snowboarding)
Golf Recreational Squash

Sports Teams
American Flag Football Football (men & women) Squash
Athletics (individual & team) Hockey (men & women) Swimming
Badminton (men, women & mixed) Lacrosse (men, women & mixed) Table Tennis
Basketball (men & women) Netball Tennis (men, women & mixed)
Cricket Rugby (men & women) Volleyball (men, women & mixed)
Cross Country Sailing
Equestrian Skiing

16
Sporting Achievements 2013/2014
The British Colleges Sport (BCS) National Championships and Tournament are the pinnacle of sporting achievement
for colleges. This year thirty one students qualified at the BCS South East Regional Championships in November and
December to represent Peter Symonds College and the South East region in seven sports, at the National Championships
Finals. This quantity of students makes us one of, if not the largest representing college at the Championships which is
a fantastic achievement.

Athletics Mens Rugby

BCS National Finals - Mens 2nd Hampshire Cup Finalists
7s Tournament Plate Winners
Badminton
BCS League 3rd
BCS National Finals Mens Doubles 3rd
Hampshire Major League 1st Womens Rugby
Womens Doubles Hampshire League 1st South East BCS Nationals Team 2 representatives
Mens Doubles Hampshire League 1st BCS Cup Round 3
Mens Singles Hampshire League 2nd
Ski
Mixed Doubles Hampshire League 1st
1st Place in the Mixed ESSKIA Races 1st
Womens Singles Hampshire League 1st
Squash
Mens Basketball
English Schools Championship Winners
Hampshire Premier League 3rd Southern region
Cricket Tennis
Winners of the Altham Trophy in 2013 Aegon Senior Students Finals Womens Doubles 2nd
Womens Football Volleyball
Hampshire Colleges League 3rd BCS Regional Tournament Womens 2nd
BCS League 3rd Mens 2nd
Hampshire Cup Semi-finalists
Team Trials
Mens Hockey
If you have an interest and commitment to a particular sport,
BCS Regional Winners & Finalists 3rd the College operates a whole range of representative teams.
at Nationals in Bath Trials are held for all these teams and dates are published a
BCS National Cup Winners year in advance. Attendance at Team Trials is obligatory if you
Hampshire Tournament Winners wish to be considered for a College representative team.

Womens Hockey
BCS Regional Tournament Finalists
Hampshire League 2nd
BCS National Cup Winners

Netball 1st
1st Team Hampshire Colleges League 1st
Versatility Tournament 3rd
2nd Team Hampshire Colleges League 1st
Versatility Tournament 3rd
Challenge Cup Winners
3rd Team Defeated only on 1 occasion

17
 Your Study Options
Advanced Level (Level 3)
As specialists in sixth form education we are able to offer you a wide range of advanced level
courses, available in almost any combination you can think of. You will get plenty of advice
about choosing your courses from our excellent team of interviewers, and when you come to
enrol with us following your GCSE results you will have another opportunity to discuss your
choices with experienced staff and subject experts. Our open evenings also provide a great
opportunity to find out more by talking to teachers and current students.

Types of course available

We offer over 40 different A level courses and a number of A levels
different BTEC National programmes to cater for your needs By September 2015 a number of A level subjects will
and interests. Further details on our BTEC courses can be have changed in line with reforms required by the
found on page 76. Department for Education. This will mean that two
different types of A level will be available: the new linear
A levels, and the current modular A levels. It will still be
possible to combine new style with old style A levels
in a programme of study. The table below provides
information on the differences between the two
types of course.

New Linear A levels from 2015 Current Modular A levels

Art & Design English Language All subjects currently offered and not listed on the left of this
Biology & Literature table will remain available as modular courses.
Business English Literature
Chemistry History
Computing Physics
Economics Psychology
English Language Sociology

Assessment Assessment
Assessed by final examinations (and coursework where Assessed through AS examinations/coursework at the end of
appropriate) at the end of the linear two year course. the first year of study, and A2 examinations/coursework at
the end of year two.

AS levels AS levels
AS levels will be available in these subjects and can be taken AS levels will continue to be available to be taken as a one
after one year of study. However, marks obtained from AS year course, or as the first part of a full A level course. Marks
levels will not contribute to full A level grade. obtained from AS levels will contribute up to 50% of the full
A level grade.

All course information included in this prospectus is correct at time of printing (27 June 2014), but is subject to change.

18
Choosing your courses
Making the right choices for your advanced level study can be the key to success. In line with our Counting in Ones motto, you
will receive lots of advice and guidance tailored to you as an individual to help you to make these choices. There are also things
you can do for yourself to help you to make informed choices, such as visiting our open evenings, carrying out research using
our website and prospectus, and looking into careers you might be interested in pursuing in the future.

Sample Study Programmes

Greg Barr Ben Narang

Kings' School (Winchester) Henry Beaufort School

Subjects: Chemistry, Human Biology, Law and Maths. Subjects: BTEC Sport (Diploma), Computing, Extended
Activities: Astroturf Football, Team 19 5-a-side Project, Maths and Further Maths.
Football Tournament. Activities: Team 19 5-a-side Football Tournament.
Ive enjoyed the opportunities Symonds has given me to look Peter Symonds is a bridge between school and university. As
at higher education and to meet students with like-minded an independent learner your courses become your responsibility
ambitions I am aiming to study medicine. Since Ive been and its up to you to complete the work and do any extra study
here Ive become more confident and committed, and Ive outside of the lessons. It is a big step up, but the teachers here
also improved my communication, team work and time give you confidence and support so the transition is easy.
management skills.

Chloe Backhouse Dayna Howard

The Clere School Windsor School (Germany)

Subjects: Geography, German, History (Late) and Subjects: Film Studies, Fine Art, Three Dimensional Design
Religious Studies. and Use of Maths.
Activities: Grade 5 Music Theory, Lacrosse Team. Activities: Archery, Freestyle Dance.

When youre here you are given so much independence Although many of my teachers havent realised it, I have
and responsibility for your learning. All A level subjects are hearing disabilities. Peter Symonds has been the first school Ive
challenging and this has led me to becoming more organised been in that has given me the support I need when I need it!
and self-motivated. And just for that Id recommend Peter Symonds.

19
 Entry Requirements
In order to study advanced level courses you will need to have For some subjects there are additional entry requirements.
achieved at least 5 A*- C GCSEs or equivalent, including Maths These are listed on page 21 or with the more specific
and English GCSE (Standard entry requirements). Some information for each subject.
students will have had the option to study vocational courses The table below provides information on suggested advanced
alongside GCSEs at School. Where this is the case we expect level programmes of study based on GCSE or equivalent
students to achieve Merit grade or above if we are to include qualifications at entry to the College.
these courses as an equivalent qualification for advanced level
study. The College reserves the right to decide how many
GCSE subjects we view a vocational qualification to
be equivalent to.

How is the average GCSE score calculated?

Once the conversion has been made, your score is added up and the average
GCSE Grade Points
calculated by dividing the total points by the number of subjects that you
A* 8 have taken.

A 7 E.g. If you achieve 3 As, 4Bs and 2Cs this gives you a total points score of 55,
divided by 9 subjects, giving an average GCSE score of 6.1.
B 6

C 5

D 4

E 3

F 2

G 1

GCSE Grades/Average Year 1 Programme Year 2 Programme Additional Commitments

GCSE Score of Study of Study (all students)
A*s & As 4 or 5 AS Levels or BTEC 3 or 4 A2s or BTEC Tutorial
(7-8 ave. GCSE score) equivalents equivalents plus optional Subject Workshops
Extended Project
Activity
Mostly As and Bs 4 AS levels or BTEC 3 or 4 A2s or BTEC
(6-7 ave. GCSE score) equivalents equivalents plus optional
Extended Project
Mostly Bs and Cs 4 AS levels or BTEC 3 A2s or BTEC equivalents
(5-6 ave. GCSE score) equivalents - mixed AS level
BTEC programme should be
strongly considered
Mostly Cs 3 AS levels or BTEC 3 A2s or BTEC equivalents
(4-5 ave. GCSE score) equivalents plus Level 2
course

20
Science Additional Entry
Requirements
Science A levels have additional entry requirements. These are
listed below. They reflect the varying types of GCSEs that are
available in schools.

Science A levels include:

Biology, Chemistry, Human Biology, Environmental Studies,
Physics, and Psychology.
Please note, a BTEC First/Level 2 Science qualification does
not qualify a student for a Science A level course.

To study Chemistry and Physics, students must To study Environmental Studies or Psychology
achieve the following GCSE grades: students much achieve the following GCSE
5 A* - C grade GCSEs, including English and an A and a B grades:
grade in one of the following combinations: 5 A* - C grade GCSEs, including English and one of the
Additional Science GCSE and Maths GCSE or following combinations:
Biology or Chemistry or Physics GCSE and Maths GCSE or Grade B in either GCSE Biology/Chemistry/Physics or GCSE
Additional Science (Applied) GCSE and Maths GCSE or Science and Additional Science. If you do not achieve a B in
Applied Science GCSE (Double Award) and Maths GCSE. these, then you need to have a Grade B in Maths.
Grades CC in GCSE Science and Additional Science
To study Biology or Human Biology students (Applied) or GCSE Applied Science (Double Award)
much achieve the following GCSE grades: plus a Grade B in Maths.
5 A* - C grade GCSEs, including English and two B grades in
one of the following combinations:
Additional Science GCSE and Maths GCSE or
Biology or Chemistry or Physics GCSE and Maths GCSE or
Additional Science (Applied) GCSE and Maths GCSE or
Applied Science GCSE (Double Award) and Maths GCSE.

21
 Art - Three Dimensional
Design (Sculpture)
AQA - Linear

What will I be studying? Off site trips to specific sculpture sites and 3D design
museums are offered including visits to London, Oxford
Three Dimensional Design (Sculpture) explores a range of
and New York.
three-dimensional media, techniques and processes and raises
an awareness of both traditional and new technologies.
How will I be assessed?
You will explore relevant images, artefacts and resources
This is a linear course and grades will be awarded at the
relating to a range of art and design, from the past and
end of the two years.
from recent times, including European and non-European
examples. You will explore drawing using a variety of
Where will it take me?
methods and media on a variety of scales using sketchbooks
This course is ideal for students wishing to build a portfolio
to underpin your work where appropriate. You will be
for art and design, architecture, product, engineering
encouraged to work in one or more area(s) of Three-
or interior design degree courses or to progress to Art
Dimensional Design. Through study you will develop:
Foundation. Careers opportunities are numerous and include:
Appreciation of solid, void, form, shape, texture, colour, commercial art, sculpture, ceramics, interior design, theatre
decoration, surface treatment, scale, proportion, rhythm design, architecture, film animation and video. Also arts
and movement in your chosen media administration, conservation and restoration, teaching
Awareness of the relationship between Three-Dimensional and art therapy.
Design and urban, rural or other settings
Appreciation of the relationship of form and function and, Entry Requirements.
where applicable, the ability to respond to a concept, work Standard entry requirements.
to a brief, theme, topic or answer a need in the chosen
area(s) of Three-Dimensional Design.
Henry Mann
It is possible to combine two art subjects. This is to be
The Westgate School
considered carefully as the deadline days for each of these
subjects are the same and so students who study two art
subjects will need to be very well organised.

What sort of work will I be doing?

This four-unit specification requires that you develop
an ability to show a range of skills, knowledge and
understanding of:
How ideas, feelings and meanings can be conveyed and
interpreted in images and artefacts created in the context of
your chosen area(s) of Three-Dimensional Design
Historical and contemporary developments and different
Subjects: History, Music and Sculpture
styles and genres (Three Dimensional Design).
How images and artefacts relate to social, environmental, Activities: Orchestra, String Groups, Student Union
(Treasurer).
cultural and/or ethical contexts, and to the time and place
in which they were created Symonds offers a work friendly environment with
the prospect of attaining high grades. Ive enjoyed
Continuity and change in different styles, genres and
the chance the College has offered me to socialise
traditions relevant to Three-Dimensional Design.
with like-minded people and the opportunity to
Sculpture is a practical course requiring enthusiasm and gain a greater understanding of my subjects.
commitment. You are expected to work at least five hours
during independent study time and homework is set and
assessed regularly.

22
Level 3 (Advanced) Courses

23
 Art Fine Art
AQA - Linear

What will I be studying?

Alice Silvester
During the first two terms of the course you will have
Swanmore College of Technology
the opportunity to experience drawing, painting, three
dimensional experimentation, printmaking and photography.
Alongside this work you will be expected to build up evidence
of your critical awareness of the wider context of art within
culture to complement and inform your practical work.
In the second year you will specialise in one or more of the
practical areas covered in year one. Art combines well with
any other advanced level subject and remains the appropriate
preparatory course for foundation and degree level courses at
art college and university.
It is possible to combine two art subjects. This is to be
considered carefully as the deadline days for each of these
subjects are the same and so students who study two art Subjects: Environmental Studies, Fine Art,
subjects will need to be very well organised. History (Late) and Italian.
Activities: CSLA, First Aid.
What sort of work will I be doing? Theres so much encouragement to ensure you
Through taught lessons, workshops and independent study do the best that you can. I have gained far more
you will be introduced to a variety of experiences exploring
confidence and independence and made so many
new friends since I arrived. I have also been able to
a range of art media, techniques and processes and be made
take advantage of the educational trips offered by
aware of both traditional and new technologies. These will
my subjects (Italy and Belize) which have given me
include painting and drawing, mixed media, including collage amazing new experiences.
and assemblage, sculpture, printmaking; relief, intaglio, screen
processes and lithography animation, video, photography;
lens-based and/or light-based media
Off site trips to art exhibitions and museums are offered
and new media.
including visits to Oxford, London and New York.
Across the two years
How will I be assessed?
You will be able to demonstrate knowledge and
You will receive continual assessment on your progress
understanding in all of the following:
and termly progress tutorials. The four units are assessed
Appreciation of different approaches to recording images, internally and then subject to external moderation to
such as observation, analysis, expression and imagination national standards.
Understanding of the conventions of figurative/
representational and abstract/non-representational Where will it take me?
imagery or genres This course enables progression onto a wide range of art and
Appreciation of different ways of working, such as using design degree courses and careers opportunities are numerous
under painting, glazing, wash and impasto; modelling, and include: commercial art, graphic design, textiles, fashion,
assembling, mono printing, lino printing, screen printing ceramics, interior, theatre design, architecture, photography,
Understanding of pictorial space, composition, rhythm, film animation and video. Also arts administration,
scale and structure conservation and restoration, teaching and art therapy.

Appreciation of colour, tone, texture, shape and form.

Entry Requirements.
Art is a practical course requiring enthusiasm and
Standard entry requirements.
commitment, in addition to the five hours of class time you
are expected to work at least five hours during independent
study time and homework is set and assessed regularly.

24
 Level 3 (Advanced) Courses

Art - Photography
AQA - Linear

What will I be studying? Photography is a practical course requiring enthusiasm and

commitment. In addition to the five hours of class time you
At the beginning of the first year you will work on teacher-
are expected to work at least five hours during independent
led project briefs introducing you to the course and
study time and homework is set and assessed regularly.
the subject. This can include both digital and chemical
approaches. You will gain skills in using camera equipment Off site trips to art exhibitions and museums are offered
to make visual recordings, adjusting images in a darkroom including visits to Oxford, London and New York.
and using computer technology, and thinking and writing
about photographs. Alongside your practical work you How will I be assessed?
will be expected to build up evidence of your critical, You will receive continual assessment on your progress
cultural awareness of the wider context of photography to and termly progress review tutorials. The four units are
complement and inform your practical work. assessed internally and then subject to external moderation
In the second year you will continue your work in the areas to national standards.
covered in year one, but in much greater depth, and with an
increased level of complexity, sophistication and ambition. Where will it take me?
Many careers involve some aspect of visual imaging,
Students are expected to have their own camera (either
some more explicitly than others. Specific career paths
digital or film) by the end of the first half term. Studying
include: journalism, radiography, survey, commercial arts,
photography has a financial cost and although some of
advertising and graphic design. The skills gained in the study
this is met by the College (eg. film processing chemicals)
of photography at this level such as analysis, evaluation,
students must pay for other consumables (such as film and
discussion and presentation, are highly transferable.
photographic paper), these are available through the College
at reduced prices.
Entry Requirements.
It is possible to combine two art subjects. This is to be
Standard entry requirements.
considered carefully as the deadline days for each of these
subjects are the same and so students who study two art
subjects will need to be very well organised.

What sort of work will I be doing?

Through taught lessons, workshops and independent study
you will be introduced to a variety of experiences exploring
a range of photographic media, techniques and processes
and made aware of both traditional and new technologies.
Subjects may include: portraiture, landscape photography
(working from the urban, rural and/or coastal environment),
still-life photography, documentary photography, photo
journalism, experimental imagery and photographic
installation and video.
You will be encouraged to explore relevant images, artefacts
and resources relating to photography, from the past and
from recent times, including European and non-European
examples. Your responses to these examples will be shown
through practical and critical activities which demonstrate
your understanding of different styles, genres and traditions.
You may use traditional methods and/or digital techniques
to produce images.

25
26
 Level 3 (Advanced) Courses

Art - Textiles
AQA - Linear

What will I be studying? Where will it take me?

During the first phase of the course you will work on set This course is ideal for students wishing to build a portfolio
projects encouraging experimentation with alternative for Fashion, Printed and Constructed Textiles or alternatively
materials, surface pattern, print, free machining and Fine Art/Textile Art. Other students have used it as a
constructed textiles. In the second phase you will be expected springboard for related Degrees such as Fashion Marketing/
to extend this experience by completing an Externally Set Buying/Promotion, Product design, Interior Design and
Project. Alongside this you will build up evidence of critical Architecture or to progress to Art Foundation.
studies of the wider context and use of textiles world wide to
compliment and inform your practical work. Entry Requirements.
In the second year of the course you will develop your own Standard entry requirements.
interests and individual expertise through a bespoke project
tailored to you. This allows you more time to create more
ambitious garments/outfits or artworks, as you prefer. There
is also a written element to this part of the course. Finally you
will study for an Externally Set Project.

What sort of work will I be doing?

You will be encouraged to explore relevant images, artefacts
and resources relating to a range of art and design, from
the past and from recent times, including European and
non-European examples. Your responses to these examples
will be shown through practical and critical activities which
demonstrate your understanding of different styles, genres
and traditions.
You will be encouraged to explore drawing using a variety of
methods and media on a variety of scales.
Textiles is a practical course requiring enthusiasm and
commitment. You are expected to work at least five hours
during independent study time and homework is set and
assessed regularly.
It is possible to combine two art subjects. This is to be
considered carefully as the deadline days for each of these
subjects are the same and so students who study two art
subjects will need to be very well organised
Off site trips to textile exhibitions or art museums are offered
including visits to London and New York.

How will I be assessed?

You will receive continual assessment on your progress and
termly progress review tutorials. The four units are assessed
internally and then subject to external moderation to national
standards. Internal deadlines enable Unit 1 and 3 to be
reviewed and improved with regular feedback.

27
 Biology
WJEC - Linear

What will I be studying? How will I be assessed?

In the first year you will study cell structure and the way At the end of the 2 year course there are three written exams
in which molecules interact with cell membranes. You in May/June, each lasting 2 hours. Students will maintain a
will experiment with the main molecules of life and the record of their practical work which will receive a written
action of enzymes. Biodiversity is studied in the context endorsement at the end of the course but is not part of
of evolution. There is an overview of classification, human the assessment.
circulation, gas exchange and digestion. The course compares
these systems to those in a range of other organisms and Where will it take me?
also looks at reproductive strategies and parasites. Both Biology and Human Biology can lead to careers in an
The second year of the course includes the chemistry enormous variety of areas including medicine, dentistry,
of respiration and photosynthesis, human and plant midwifery, nursing, radiography, physiotherapy, pharmacy
reproduction and various ecological and evolutionary and other biomedical and healthcare vocations. They can
issues. You will study the nervous system and how drugs/ also provide the foundation for the many purely scientific
disease affect function, hormones and the homeostatic role branches of the biological sciences, such as physiology,
of the kidney. There are also topics on genetics, population biochemistry, and pharmacology or more applied fields such
genetics and microbiology. Students will consider a as environmental science, food technology, agriculture,
variety of applications of biotechnology such as penicillin ecology, horticulture or forensics. Human Biology provides
production and DNA fingerprinting. You will be able to an excellent basis for many sports related degrees. Biology
select 2 optional modules from a range of 4: neuroscience, is an essential entry requirement for veterinary medicine or
skeletal anatomy, food science, immunology and disease. marine biology.

What sort of work will I be doing? Entry Requirements.

In addition to timetabled lessons, workshops are provided Standard entry requirements including additional
every day when teaching staff and student mentors are requirements set out on page 21.
available to give one to one assistance. An extension group
meets weekly for students who are interested in biology
beyond the A level curriculum. We often invite experts to give
lunchtime talks and seminars. Recent talks have included
genetic counselling, new diseases, infertility and epidemiology.
In addition to completing weekly set homeworks, you will
be expected to consolidate and extend your knowledge by
reading the set texts, researching the internet and using the
comprehensive support material on the college intranet.
You may wish to take up optional extra courses: Large
Animal Handling, Human Anatomy and Physiology and
an extension group. The department also offers students
the opportunity to complete an extended project in their
second year. There is a link to Southampton University for
laboratory work which can be associated with this. Students
are encouraged to enter for the National Biology Olympiad
and 3 have reached the international finals in recent years.

28
29
 Business
AQA - Linear

What will I be studying? What sort of work will I be doing?

Business Studies begins by focusing on business start-ups, You will be learning specialist terms and theory. Note taking
and progresses to study small and medium sized established and question work will be an important feature of most
businesses. The course looks at decision making and how lessons. Business and exam case studies are extensively used.
to make businesses more successful. It will provide an There will be opportunities for you to use computer based
introduction to the essentials of management which will be learning such as the Sims Venture business games. You will
useful in any workplace. complete written homework to develop exam skills. Real
The course progresses to look at bigger businesses and the world examples, video clips and group work are used to add
challenges they face to succeed. More complex theories and variety to class work. In the second year you will study a
topics are studied such as investment appraisal, and the research topic designed to develop independent work skills
theories of Ansoff and Porter. crucial for university work. Previous research topic tasks have
included: China, culture, takeovers and mergers.

How will I be assessed?

This subject is assessed by four Unit exams. You will require
an ability to learn key concepts accurately; to interpret and
manipulate data for structured questions; and to build strong
arguments based on evidence. Students will need to be able to
express themselves concisely and write essay style answers in
the second year. There is no coursework.

Progression
Business Studies is worth pursuing for its own sake, but
it is a useful qualification if you are hoping to go directly
into employment or aiming to go on to higher education.
Employers like students who have studied business as it
makes them more immediately employable. In addition,
many quite unrelated degree subjects have a business studies
module, so studying Business can be extremely useful
whatever degree you might eventually follow. Business
students develop skills and knowledge very relevant to the
modern world.

Entry Requirements.
Standard entry requirements.

30
 Level 3 (Advanced) Courses

Chemistry
OCR - Linear

What will I be studying?

Arjun Shahi
Chemistry is the study of substances; how they react
The Toynbee School
and what they are made of. You will see the evidence
for current ideas about the structure of atoms and
molecules, and how our knowledge of chemical behaviour
can be used to design polymers, fuels, medicines, and
other products that can add quality to our lives.
In common with all A level Chemistry specifications you
will study atomic structure and bonding, reaction rates,
spectroscopy, organic reactions in a lot more detail than
you have done at GCSE.

What sort of work will I be doing?

A combination of theory, question practice and frequent
practical work will form the bulk of classwork. There will Subjects: Biology, Chemistry, Economics,
also be opportunities for model making and group work. History (Late) and Maths.
Homework (set weekly) will include past exam questions, There are ample opportunities and help available
note making, reading and revision. A large part of work to you as a student here. This includes workshops
delivered will be made accessible to you via the intranet, and high quality educational resources used
which also has links to website resources and video clips. in lessons.
In addition to timetabled lessons, workshops are
offered every day when teachers and student
helpers are available to give individual help.
We also offer extension activities at both AS and A2, and
every year a number of students take part in the
Chemistry Olympiad.

How will I be assessed?

External written exams are set in May/June. Frequent
informal class tests and homework will assess your day
to day progress. At the time of writing there are controlled
assessments of practical skills at AS and an extended
piece of coursework at A2.

Where will it take me?

Chemistry A level is essential for degrees in Medicine,
Chemistry, Pharmacy, Dentistry, Biochemistry,
Chemical Engineering and useful for many others
including Oceanography and Geology.

Entry Requirements.
Standard entry requirements including additional
requirements set out on page 21.

31
 CILEx
Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (Level 2 & Level 3) City and Guilds

What will I be studying?

The courses develop a number of inter-related skills
and prepare you for work within a legal environment.
The course will introduce you to the litigation process,
general legal principles and the law office structure.
At Level 3, the course will extend and further develop
your knowledge and skills to enable you to become a
vital part of a legal team, by providing support to legal
executives, solicitors, barristers or to the legal personnel.

Level 2 Working in the Legal Environment

Topics include the following aspects of legal practice,
health and safety, team working planning and organising.

Level 2 & 3 Legal Documentation

In this topic you will learn about the necessary
documentation, policies and procedures for
documentation required to prepare for the following:
Criminal litigation; family law; probate; civil
litigation; conveyancing and corporate law.
How will I be assessed?
Level 3 Business Skill in the Legal Environment
You are assessed internally and there is one
Topics include: evaluation of different types of IT external examination.
equipment and systems, knowledge of the legal system
and of how legislation affects the legal office, resolving Where will it take me?
potential conflict, and co-ordinating an event.
CILEx can lead to direct employment with local
law firms where apprenticeships are offered
What sort of work will I be doing? enabling you to progress from Legal Administration
You will be producing legal documentation for to Chartered Legal Executives (FCILEx).
departments such as: Criminal and Civil Litigation,
Probate, Family, Conveyancing and Corporate Entry Requirements.
Law from written and audio transcripts.
Standard entry requirements.
You will develop an understanding of the structure
of Civil and Criminal Law Courts and the personnel
represented within these courts and you will develop
knowledge and skills to evaluate business management
systems and identify and monitor the application
of relevant legislation in the legal environment.

32
 Level 3 (Advanced) Courses

Classical Civilisation
OCR

What will I be studying? What sort of work will I be doing?

Classical Civilisation comprises a study of aspects of ancient Your main task will be a detailed study of the set texts.
Greece and Rome. All of the source material is studied in Teacher-led discussions highlight the significant details,
translation, you do not need to have any knowledge of Greek with students actively being encouraged to contribute
or Latin. Nor do you need to have studied the subject at GCSE. ideas and opinions. You will also work independently
or in small groups to consolidate your learning. In all
At AS you will study two units: units students are provided with specially prepared
Homers Odyssey and Society: This is the story of Odysseus, extension reading material to complement their study.
the crafty king of Ithaca whose idea of the Wooden Horse
brought about the downfall of mighty Troy. You will also How will I be assessed?
examine the society in which it was set in short, the world of Each year there will be two externally set exams
the Homeric Hero. one for each unit.
Roman Society and Thought: Covers an in-depth study
of aspects of the Roman world in C1stAD as seen through Where will it take me?
the works of Horace, Petronius, Pliny and Juvena. Sharing many of the disciplines needed to succeed in
History or English, Classical Civilisation is widely accepted
At A2 there are a further two units: by universities, irrespective of whether students continue
You will study the influential world of Greek Art, and their study of it. Whilst leading directly to few careers
Architecture, including the statues and buildings which in itself, it provides many transferable skills (such as
have shaped much of western art, and further epics dealing with complex or unusual ideas or analysing source
of Homer and Virgil, the Iliad and the Aeneid. material critically) useful for a wide range of professions.

Entry Requirements.
Standard entry requirements.

33
 Communication and Culture
AQA

What will I be studying? What sort of work will I be doing?

The AS course provides a thorough examination of personal The subject employs a wide variety of teaching strategies
and cultural communication. You will develop ideas on self- and learning methods: small group projects and case studies,
concept including self-image, self-esteem and ideal self as individual research and whole class teaching. The course
well as exploring the importance of the views of others and is heavily reliant on written work and the key emphasis
relevant theoretical perspectives. You will examine the body as is on the application of theories to real life contexts. You
a text as well as being encouraged to analyse advertisements, will draw upon and debate your own experiences, thus the
DVD covers, cultural artefacts and even places using a course requires you to develop a high degree of independent
process known as semiotics (the study of signs). A thorough learning. Homework is set regularly and is varied in style and
examination of group culture is offered. The high culture content. Class tasks include more practical activities such
versus popular culture debate is explored with the concept as filming or an examination and analysis of the cultural
of cultural value debated. For this we use a variety of cultural structure of the College (where different groups congregate)
texts, from Shakespeare to X Factor, Michelangelo to Banksy. providing practical examples for further classroom debate.
We aim to find explanations to what defines us, not just as an There are opportunities for further enrichment with trips to
individual but as a member of a particular cultural group. As Tate Modern/Tate Britain. We have held a number of graffiti
such we closely examine issues of gender, ethnicity and class. days with a local artist with students having an opportunity
to debate the issues surrounding the value of graffiti.

Daisy Hill
How will I be assessed?
Wyvern Technology College
At AS level there are two units which are divided equally
(50% each). Unit 1 is assessed through an examination
in May and requires short essay style answers as well as
an analysis of an unseen cultural text. The examination
is one hour and 45 minutes. Unit 2 is coursework and
includes two written assessments (500 words and
1000 words), topic titles set by AQA and a practical
film presentation entitled Me and My culture.

Where will it take me?

Many of our students go on to study a related degree
in either Cultural Studies, Communication, or Media
Subjects: Communication and Culture, English Language,
History (Late) and Sociology. as well as social working, nursing, and teaching. The
Activities: Core Construction, First Aid. course is very much suited to those who have aspirations
Life at Peter Symonds prepares you for further for careers in the public sector, public relations, events
education, as much less help is given than at management, human resources, teaching and business.
school, which leads you to work and think on
your own initiative and do things for yourself. Entry Requirements.
Standard entry requirements.

34
 Level 3 (Advanced) Courses

Computer Science
AQA - Linear

What will I be studying?

Anthony Wharton
Computer Science is a broad-based course where you will
Harrow Way Community School
gain a sound understanding of the internal structure of
computers and how they operate. A large part of the course
will be spent studying programming and developing skills
in expressing solutions to problems using algorithms.

You will study in detail:

Introduction to Programming using a high level
programming language
Hardware components of a computer system
Introduction to the Internet through its structure
and the protocols
Problem Solving
Advanced Programming Techniques Subjects: Computing, Maths, Further Maths and Physics.
Activities: Anime Appreciation Society, Chess and
Operating Systems Film Making.
Databases At Symonds I have had the opportunity to dive
Networking. deep into the subjects I enjoy the most, whilst
still being able to try completely new things that
The Practical Project intrigue me with enrichment activities. The College
lives up to its excellent academic reputation with
The project provides an opportunity to demonstrate your
modern facilities and a great atmosphere around
knowledge and understanding of the systems development
the campus. Oh by the way, the cookies in Varley
life-cycle. You will produce a relatively complex program to a Caf are fantastic!
real-user problem and provide documentation for the analysis,
design, construction, testing and evaluation of the system.

What sort of work will I be doing? Where will it take me?

Introductory Programming Tasks The course provides an excellent foundation for any
Past Paper Theory Questions based on the topics above Computer Science related course. Many students have moved
on to a degree course for example, artificial intelligence,
Major Computer Project.
games design and software engineering. Computing personnel
are required in many industries, such as botany and biology,
How will I be assessed?
space and aeronautics, national defence, sports equipment,
You will be assessed over two exams at the end of
computer games design, transport and travel, modern media,
the second year as well as the major project.
social networking and medicine and medical research.
Paper 1 Programming and short answer theory
questions completed on a computer (40%) Entry Requirements.
Paper 2 Short answer and extended answer Standard entry requirements.
theory questions. Written paper (40%)
Computing Project A programming project
using an event-driven or object oriented
programming language (20%)

35
 Dance
AQA

What will I be studying? Over the two years you will perform your exam work. We
encourage students to create dances themselves and these
In Dance you will create and perform dances
are always welcome in our shows. We expect exceptional
as well as learn theory of dance.
commitment from students who choose Dance A level.
For the AS, you will participate in technique classes, learn
choreographic skills and develop your dance performance. How will I be assessed?
Opportunities to learn from professional dancers in
AS 60% Practical Exam
workshops with companies such as Matthew Bournes
40% Written Exam
company, Akram Khan Dance Company and Rambert
Dance Company will be available as will a number of For the practical exam you will create a solo performance
trips to see them. Dance theory includes the study of using a starting point such as a poem, a piece of music or
dancers as performers and the ways that dancers keep a picture and you will perform this yourself. You will also
themselves fit, healthy and safe. You will also learn demonstrate your skills as a dancer in a group performance.
to write about dances by analysing their content. In the written exam you will answer short questions.

In A2 Dance you will extend your skills and knowledge by A2 50% Practical Exam
learning one topic in depth and one dance in detail. You will 50% Written Exam
learn about choreographers and about the development For the practical exam you will create a group choreography
of a professional company. You will also build on your using similar starting points to the AS solo.
technical skills by learning and creating a solo in the style
of a professional choreographer. In choreography you will Where will it take me?
learn to create dance for groups. You will have the choice Many past dance students have gone onto vocational
of performing in a Jazz, Ballet or Contemporary style. dance training at institutions such as Rambert, Laines,
Performers and London Studio Centre. These students go on
What sort of work will I be doing? to become dancers, choreographers, teachers, community
Four out of five lessons in AS will be practical. You will dance leaders, researchers and theatre journalists.
work in small groups to create pieces, be taught movement
from professional works which you will then write about Entry Qualifications
and develop skills through whole class technical sessions. Standard entry requirements plus at least a grade C in GCSE
Homework will support class work and will develop essay Dance or examinations of equivalent status.
writing skills in order to prepare for the written exam.
In theory lessons you will learn the history of dance and look
closely at a number of professional dance works. The best
way to do this is by seeing them live, therefore over the year
you will be taken to London theatres such as Sadlers Wells
and The Royal Opera House and also to local productions at
The Point, Eastleigh and the Mayflower, Southampton. The
performances will be in a range of styles and there will be
a chance to learn other dance styles at Pineapple Studios.

36
 Level 3 (Advanced) Courses

Drama and Theatre Studies

AQA

What will I be studying?

This course provides an opportunity to study Drama
and Theatre as a single subject. You will extend your
skills in both the understanding of theatre and analysis
of performance. You will work in specialist facilities, be
involved in a wide range of tasks and take part in a variety
of workshops developing expressive skills. You will need
to have a real commitment to the study of theatre.
In your AS year you will study one set play and attend
a range of live productions which will form the basis of
your written examination. The practical exam will be the
performance of an extract of a play which will adopt the
style of an established director or theatre company.
At A2 level you will study two set plays from the perspective
of an actor, designer or director. The practical exam will
involve the devising of an original piece of theatre.

What sort of work will I be doing?

Lesson work is creative and varied. Activities include study
and analysis of live theatre seen and of one chosen play
which you will also explore practically. Lesson rehearsals
for your practical exams involve freedom to experiment
and perform texts (AS) or devise your own original work
(A2). You can choose to be assessed on a number of skills
including acting or directing. Popular lesson projects include Where will it take me?
our film making activity where you will create a short film A level Drama and Theatre Studies leads on to many
about your chosen play and playwright in a documentary higher education courses and professional training in
style. You will work with professional theatre companies, Drama and other Arts and Humanities subjects. The
most recently Complicite. You will explore the many layers transferable skills the subject offers are also highly
of theatre which combined lead to imaginative work and valued in vocational areas including the media and
create mood and atmosphere. There are many enrichment television, teaching and arts administration.
opportunities including a cultural residential theatre trip to
Paris and visits to see many exciting cutting edge live theatres. Entry Requirements.
Standard entry requirements.
How will I be assessed?
In AS you will have a written exam on a chosen play and
on a live production you have seen (60%). You will have
a practical exam performing an extract of a play (40%).
In A2 you will have a written exam on two chosen
plays and a practical exam where you will devise
your own piece of original and exciting theatre.

37
 Economics
Edexcel - Linear

What will I be studying? What sort of work will I be doing?

Economics is a subject that involves much discussion in A variety of teaching methods are used in Economics lessons
lessons of current issues in the news. including class discussions, group-work activities, and IT
Theories are constructed to help our understanding of based lessons. Sometimes simulations or games are used
markets and economies. The subject is divided into Micro- to explain how markets work. Sometimes you will also be
economics and Macro-economics. required to research independently and give presentations
with your classmates. However, Economics is a challenging,
Microeconomics is the study of individual markets and the theoretical subject and many of the classroom activities
behaviour of consumers and producers. You will consider will require a high degree of teacher explanation. You are
questions such as: Why have food prices risen? Should there given course companions in which you are expected to
be a national minimum wage? Should governments provide make notes and complete exercises. You will be expected to
free health care and education? complete a variety of homework tasks including supported
Macroeconomics is the study of the economy as a whole, multiple choice questions, data response questions, essays,
including inflation, unemployment, economic growth and independent research and further reading.
international trade. You will consider questions such as:
Why has unemployment fallen? Should the Bank of England How will I be assessed?
increase interest rates? What is the effect of a change in the In the exam you will be assessed using a combination of
value of the Pound? supported multiple choice questions and data response
At A2 level you will explore new topics such as how questions. The supported multiple choice questions require
businesses behave in different markets. There is also a greater you to select the correct answer and then explain this answer.
emphasis on international trade and development. This will The data response exam requires you to answer both short
include topics such as: Should there be free trade? Why has and long answer questions using your own knowledge and
the standard of living grown faster in China than in Africa? the evidence provided.
Should the UK join the Euro?
Where will it take me?
Vicky Backhouse Economics is a subject that is well-respected by both
Wildern School employers and top universities. A very high proportion of
A-level Economics students go on to study at university. Many
of them achieve places at top institutions such as Oxford and
Cambridge and other Russell Group universities. They choose
a wide variety of courses but around 30% of them choose to
do Economics as part of their degree. Economics at degree
level can lead on to many careers in business, finance and
political policy making.

Entry Requirements.
Standard entry requirements including a grade B or above
in GCSE Maths.

Subjects: Biology, Economics, History and Psychology.

Activities: Tennis Development, Self Defence.
I feel that I have gained confidence from a well-
rounded variety of subjects, which are giving me
the ability and opportunity to choose any path
for my future.

38
 Level 3 (Advanced) Courses

English Language
AQA - Linear

What will I be studying? What sort of work will I be doing?

English Language trains you to become a skilled analyser In class, you will be working through resource packs that
of language use. It offers opportunities to produce original guide coverage of the units. You will then respond through
writing, but also moves into the fascinating field of social writing or class discussions. There will be opportunities to
science in which the systems, theories and labelling of debate the merits of theories and attitudes about language
language and communication is studied. use. Out of class, there will be written assignments to
Much of the course will involve applying analytical methods complete; developing coursework will form a key part of
to the spoken, written and electronic texts around us. independent work in the A level. You will be directed to
Such skills will enable you to study how texts achieve their independent learning resources (books, articles, on-line
purposes, position an audience and offer representations of resources, audio-visual clips) in order to broaden subject
issues, events or people. knowledge and research extension ideas.

The study of Child Language Acquisition (studied through How will I be assessed?
examples of child-adult interaction, childrens early writing
The AS will be assessed through 100% external assessment
and reading schemes) will enable developmental theories to
(two exams).
be applied. Language Variation will involve understanding
why people of different regional, social, gender and class The A level will include independently completed coursework
backgrounds differ in their accents and dialects, both in (20%), with the remaining assessment through exams.
the UK and around the English-speaking world. Language Assessment during the year will involve written responses
Change will invite you to engage with English texts from to exam-style questions. There will be tests to check
past centuries. understanding of linguistic terminology and theory, both in
The A level course will include an element of original writing class and on our subject intranet site.
coursework, along with an analytical commentary to reflect
on language choices taken in your work. An independent Where will it take me?
Language Investigation will also form a key element to the A The social science outlook of the subject at A level fits well
level coursework, in which you undertake a research project with studies of Psychology, Sociology and Media. Some
on an area of language that is of personal interest. students choose to combine the course with the study of
English Literature. Potential careers of relevance to the course
content would be teaching, publishing, journalism, marketing,
management, law and speech therapy.

Entry Requirements.
Standard entry requirements.

39
 English Language
and Literature
WJEC - Linear

What will I be studying? How will I be assessed?

English Language and Literature is an exciting and challenging There is a significant coursework element at A Level worth
course which encourages you to develop and assess the 20% of your marks. The remaining 80% is achieved in
ways in which a diverse range of writers and speakers create summer examinations.
meaning. You will learn to apply a range of linguistic and Assessment during the year will involve written responses
literary critical concepts and analytical frameworks to a great to exam style questions. There will also be tests to check the
variety of texts, from a selection of non-fiction texts and great understanding of linguistic terminology.
literary classics.
In lessons we will study a number of pre-1900 poems and Where will it take me?
two prose texts. You will then produce two pieces of creative Students who have studied English Language and Literature
writing inspired by your own reading. have gone on to study a diverse range of disciplines at
The course encourages students towards a broad knowledge university, including English Literature.
of texts, especially those for performance. You will complete The subject develops your ability to communicate with a
an extended piece of writing based on a theme of your diverse range of audiences and a plurality of purposes. Our
choosing and produce two new texts for performance which students have gone on to careers in advertising, writing, the
can be prompted by your own interests and hobbies. You will media including radio and television drama, education
learn to appreciate the social, historical and cultural factors and administration.
which influence speakers and writers.
Entry Requirements.
Standard entry requirements.
What sort of work will I be doing?
In class you will be working through the texts, reading and
making notes in your notebooks and anthologies. You will
then respond through a variety of class activities including
discussion, group work and written work. Out of class, there
are on line quizzes on texts to be completed as well as written
assignments; we want to encourage your independent study
skills. You are expected to read the set novels independently.
The subject has an extensive range of resources on the
intranet to help you develop independent study skills.
There will be opportunities to take part in on site events
such as the annual Writers Day workshops held in July. We
organise frequent theatre trips.

40
 Level 3 (Advanced) Courses

English Literature
OCR - Linear

What will I be studying?

What sort of work will I be doing?
In English Literature you will study a range of prose, poetry
English Literature is a course about reading and writing.
and drama texts from 1300 to the present day. You will have
You will spend a significant amount of your independent
the opportunity to study Shakespeare and other classic
study time reading the texts in preparation for class and also
writers from the canon of literature as well as modern writers
reading critical material and study guides to develop your
and writers from other cultures.
understanding. You will also work on developing your essay
The course will develop your skills of literary analysis, making writing skills. Students of English Literature are expected to
you a more sensitive and intellectually aware reader of write in a mature, academic style. The quality of your writing
literature. There will be a particular focus on developing your and argument are key discriminators for success at A level.
understanding of a writers techniques and how meaning
There is a large comparative coursework element to the
is conveyed. In class, you will be exposed to the ideas and
course. Literature students are expected to do a lot of reading
interpretations of others and be expected to bring your own
outside of class. Every student is provided with reading and
ideas into the discussion. You will be expected to be able
research assignments every half-term and you can expect to
to formulate an argument about a text and sustain it. Your
write four essays every half term.
intelligence and imagination will be stretched by the reading
the course demands. We have an English extension group called English, etc. and
we host many visiting speakers and lecturers for all students
The study of literary theory will teach you new ways of
throughout the year. One-to-one support workshops run
examining texts, such as how to apply a Marxist or feminist
every lunchtime.
reading to a text.

How will I be assessed?

Edward McPherson
There is a significant coursework element at A level
Perins School
worth 20% of your marks. The remaining 80% is achieved
in summer examinations.
Assessment throughout the year will involve written
responses to exam-style questions. You may also be
expected to lead discussions on particular topics in a
text or produce presentations.

Where will it take me?

English Literature enhances your essay writing, critical
thinking and analytical skills. The study of literature improves
your emotional intelligence and intellectual capacity. It
broadens your understanding of human nature and our place
in the world. It develops your understanding of our literary,
Subjects: Economics, English Literature, History (Late),
Maths and Further Maths.
historical and philosophical culture.

Peter Symonds offers a challenging, yet rewarding, As a facilitating subject, English Literature opens many career
academic environment. The quality of tuition has paths. Our students have gone on to study everything from
been excellent and the timetable (with its frees) law and journalism to publishing and marketing. The ability
allows you to pursue your academic interests to a to read and write in a sophisticated manner are transferable
high level. life skills that are highly valued by universities and employers.

Entry Requirements.
Standard entry requirements.

41
 Environmental Studies
AQA

What will I be studying? What sort of work will I be doing?

Environmental Studies involves the scientific study of You will learn through teacher-led discussions, practical
human impact on planet Earth. You will study a wide range activities, multimedia, group projects and study skills. Private
of environmental issues to increase your understanding of study includes expanding topic summaries, background
how human activities cause environmental damage and the reading (sources recommended) and internet research
strategies that are available to reduce this. (website addresses provided). The subject provides a
good training in problem solving and analysis of data
Many sides of the issues are discussed to enable you to form
and information.
well-balanced opinions which you can support with logical
arguments and objective scientific evidence. If you have a A range of field trips is offered to support class-based
good general knowledge and an interest in your place in the studies. Daytrips might include, for example, visits to a water
wider world, you should find this a rewarding subject to study. treatment plant, the Waitrose farm at Leckford, Marwell Zoo
or the Hawk Conservancy. All students will participate in an
In the AS course you will study two units. The Living
ecological skills field trip which also gives the opportunity to
Environment studies wildlife conservation, conservation
study woodland management.
ecology and land use conflicts. The Physical Environment
examines atmospheric processes, water resources, geological Overseas trips include a community development and wildlife
resources, nutrient cycles and soils. Topical issues such as trip to Kenya, Reef and Rainforest in Belize, and a research
global climate change, tropical rainforest conservation and expedition with Operation Wallacea.
water supplies are covered throughout the two units. Students with an interest in practical conservation can assist
The second year has two units which cover energy resources, with the management of a woodland nature reserve which we
pollution, agriculture, forestry, fisheries and sustainability. are developing to increase its wildlife value.
The underlying theme is How can increasing numbers of
people have a good quality of life without damaging the life-
How will I be assessed?
support systems of the planet? Both the AS and A2 courses have two units, with exams being
held in May and June respectively. There is no coursework.
The applied nature of the subject means there are many
opportunities to relate topics to everyday issues and
Where will it take me?
current affairs.
Environmental Studies is a very broad subject and can lead,
with appropriate other subjects, to a wide range of careers
including wildlife conservation, water industry, energy
industry, environmental health, agriculture, forestry, fisheries,
teaching, environmental law, tourism, landscape architecture,
amongst many others. Many students go on to study Marine
Biology, Zoology, Oceanography and Environmental Science
at university. Environmental Studies is accepted as a science
subject by virtually every university.

Entry Requirements.
Standard entry requirements including additional
requirements set out on page 21.

42
43
 Film Studies
WJEC

What will I be studying? How will I be assessed?

AS AS Level
60% written exam: 1 exam paper 2 hours
FM1: Coursework Unit (40%)
40% coursework: 1 x 1,500 word essay and
Exploring Film Form:
A filmmaking practical production and reflective evaluation.
You will develop the skills to understand and analyse in detail
how micro codes (such as cinematography and editing) create A2 Level
meaning and provoke emotional response for the spectator. 50% written exam: 1 exam paper 2 hours
You will learn how to shoot digital film, use green screen 50% coursework: A Research Project and
technology, edit footage and use post production techniques Practical filmmaking or Screenplay and reflective evaluation.
such as after effects.
Where will it take me?
FM2: Exam Units (60%) An A level in Film Studies equips students with excellent
British and American Film research, essay-writing, analytical and practical skills. Many
In this unit you will study British and American (Hollywood) students go on to study Film as a single honours subject or
cinema industries and learn about how films are financed, combined with another discipline.
distributed, get into cinemas and onto digital and online
Please be aware that some of the films studied
platforms. You will also study the Horror Genre.
are certified 18.
US Film Comparative Study
Entry Requirements.
Here you will compare two American films that share similar
themes and stylistic features but were made in different eras. Standard entry requirements.

A2
FM3: Film Research and Creative Project
(coursework 50%)
In this unit you will produce two projects. One is
research based and the other is creative (making a
short film/film sequence).

FM4: Varieties of Film Experience Issues and

Debates (external exam 2 hours 50%)
In this unit you will study a broader range of films than at AS.
Topics include World Cinema (Mexican, Italian, Spanish and
Hong Kong) as well as Spectatorship and Documentary.

What sort of work will I be doing?

Lessons are delivered using a variety of teaching methods:
lectures, discussion, activities and screenings. Workshops are
available for coursework support. We have a fully equipped
professional standard edit suite which is supported by two full
time Film and Media instructors.

44
 Level 3 (Advanced) Courses

French
Edexcel

What will I be studying? How will I be assessed?

The AS course will move you on from GCSE covering All four skills reading, writing, listening and oral will be
all four skills. You will gain a greater knowledge of the assessed at both AS and A2 levels , with greater emphasis on
grammatical structures and so develop accuracy in the the production of the language (speaking and writing) at A2.
language. Teaching is based on a thematic approach and AS 2 exams, Unit 1 Oral + Unit 2 Listening, Reading
the language is taught through a variety of contemporary and Writing.
issues, using authentic resources.
A2 2 exams, Unit 3 Oral (+Listening) +Unit 4
At A2, you will continue to enhance your knowledge of the Written paper.
target language, improving your linguistic skills, whilst using
the language to present viewpoints, develop, analyse and Where will it take me?
evaluate arguments both when speaking and writing.
This practical, applied approach to the study of French means
At both levels, you will study aspects of the contemporary that it will be useful to students of the arts and sciences alike.
society and culture of France and other French-speaking In higher education, French can be studied in combination
countries. with many other courses, and many degrees, including those
in the sciences will offer students the chance to complete part
What sort of work will I be doing? of their degree abroad. Modern Languages graduates are in
Your aim will be to improve your language skills, whilst great demand in the job market.
gaining an understanding of the contemporary society,
cultural background and heritage of France. You will learn Entry Requirements.
to speak and write at length in French about all aspects Standard entry requirements including a grade B or above
of French society and culture. The general topic areas at in GCSE French.
AS are; youth culture and concerns; lifestyle, health and
fitness; travel, tourism and environmental issues; education
and employment. These topics are accompanied at A2 by
customs, traditions and beliefs; national and international
events; literature and the arts. In class, you will practise all
four skills and will engage in whole class, group and pair
discussions. From October through to May students also
have a small group (in 3s or 4s) conversation session with
a Foreign Language Assistant. There is a clear independent
study programme to complete outside lessons, dividing your
weekly study time between reading, writing and listening
tasks. You will also have the opportunity to use your
French in France, on our very popular, annual Nice trip.

45
 Geography
Edexcel

What will I be studying? What sort of work will I be doing?

Geography is the study of Earths landscapes, Geography lessons feature a range of teaching and learning
peoples, places and environments. techniques; these include decision-making exercises,
Geography is unique in bridging the social sciences discussions, textual analysis, role plays, fieldwork and
(human geography) with the natural sciences (physical independent research. You will use a range of interactive
geography). Human geography concerns the understanding resources including weather stations, maps, graphs,
of the dynamics of cultures, societies and economies, and statistics, phone apps, satellite images, animations, videos,
physical geography concerns the understanding of the the internet and intranet, Global Positioning Systems
dynamics of physical landscapes and the environment. (GPS) and Geographical Information Systems (GIS).
The Geography department offers a wide range of extension
AS level opportunities including involvement with the Hampshire
Unit 1: Geographical Association, the HE+ scheme, Winchester
Global Challenges you will study 2 topics Action on Climate Change and Winchester University.
World at Risk investigates global natural hazards and Fieldwork is essential and you will participate in non-
climate change residential field courses in the local area. Residential
Going Global investigates the issues of globalisation and field courses are offered in the UK and overseas. Recent
population change destinations have included Snowdonia, Cornwall,
California, Morocco and Uganda.
Unit 2:
Geographical Investigations you will study 2 fieldwork
and research topics
How will I be assessed?
Extreme Weather examines the causes, impacts and There are 2 AS exams:
management of these hazards Unit 1 - 1 hour 30 minute exam in May
Rebranding Places examines appropriate strategies to re- Unit 2 - 1 hour 15 minute exam in May
image and regenerate rural and urban places.
There are 2 A2 exams:
A2 level Unit 3 2 hour Z minute exam in June
Unit 3: Unit 4 1 hour 30 minute exam in June
Contested Planet examines 6 topics:
Energy Security, Water Conflicts, Biodiversity under Threat, Where will it take me?
Bridging the Development Gap, Superpower Geographies The AS and A level Geography course will prepare you
and Technological Fix for a wide range of university courses and careers.
Unit 4: Many A level Geography students choose to study Geography
Geographical Research: at university and with growing interest in issues such as
You will conduct independent research into 1 of 6 research climate change, energy security, migration, environmental
options: Tectonic Activity and Hazards, Cold Environments, degradation and social cohesion, Geography is one of the most
Life on the Margins, The World of Cultural Diversity, relevant degree courses you could choose to study. Geography
Pollution and Human Health at Risk and Consuming graduates are highly employable in a wide range of careers.
the Rural Landscape.
Entry Requirements.
Standard entry requirements.

46
 Level 3 (Advanced) Courses

German
Edexcel

What will I be studying? a Foreign Language Assistant. There is a clear independent

study programme to complete outside lessons, dividing your
The AS course will move you on from GCSE covering
weekly study time between reading, writing and listening
all four skills. You will gain a greater knowledge of
tasks. You will also have the opportunity to use your German
the grammatical structures and so develop accuracy
in Germany, on our very popular, German/Austria trip.
in the language. Teaching is based on a thematic
approach and the language is taught through a variety
of contemporary issues, using authentic resources.
How will I be assessed?
All four skills reading, writing, listening and oral will be
At A2, you will continue to enhance your knowledge of
assessed at both AS and A2 levels , with greater emphasis on
the target language, improving your linguistic skills, whilst
the production of the language (speaking and writing) at A2.
using the language to present viewpoints, develop, analyse
and evaluate arguments both when speaking and writing. AS - 2 exams, Unit 1 - Oral + Unit 2 Listening,
Reading and Writing.
At both levels, you will study aspects of the
contemporary society and culture of Germany A2 - 2 exams, Unit 3 - Oral (+Listening) +
and other German-speaking countries. Unit 4 Written paper.

What sort of work will I be doing? Where will it take me?

Your aim will be to improve your language skills, whilst This practical, applied approach to the study of German
gaining an understanding of the contemporary society, means that it will be useful to students of the arts and
cultural background and heritage of Germany. You will learn sciences alike. In higher education, German can be studied
to speak and write at length in German about all aspects of in combination with many other courses, and many degrees,
German society and culture. The general topic areas at AS including those in the sciences, will offer students the
are; youth culture and concerns; lifestyle, health and fitness; chance to complete part of their degree abroad. Modern
travel, tourism and environmental issues; education and Languages graduates are in great demand in the job market.
employment. These topics are accompanied at A2 by customs,
traditions and beliefs; national and international events; Entry Requirements.
literature and the arts. From October through to May students Standard entry requirements including Grade B or
also have a small group (in 3s or 4s) conversation session with above in GCSE German.

47
 Government and Politics
Edexcel

What will I be studying? In addition to class work and independent study based on
what we cover in the classes there are opportunities to visit
AS Level Parliament, the Supreme Court and attend conferences held
in London. A number of students also opt to extend their
People and Politics understanding of Politics in general by attending Politics
An introduction to the subject: Political Parties, Policies and Plus sessions offered in the Activities programme.
Ideas; Democracy and Political Participation; Pressure
Groups; Elections. How will I be assessed?
Assessment in Politics is based around end of year written
Governing the UK
examinations. There are two exams for AS units lasting one
Here we look at the central institutions of government: hour and twenty minutes each and two A2 examinations
the Constitution, Parliament, Cabinet, Prime Minister, lasting one hour and thirty minutes. All exams take place
Judges and Civil Liberties. In addition, we will examine the in May/June period.
recent events that have figured prominently in the news.
Where will it take me?
A2 Level Studying Politics equips you with many skills notably analysis
Introducing Political ideologies and communication that can be transferred into a diverse
number of different disciplines. The possible careers that it
You will explore the major ideas of four significant ideologies
can lead you into include journalism, business, the media,
that emerged out of the economic, social and political
finance, law, local government and the civil service. Students
upheavals in the 18th, 19th & 20th centuries to shape our
have gone on to take degrees in Politics and International
political landscape Liberalism, Conservatism, Socialism
relations but also in Economics, Law, History and Sociology
and Anarchism.
among others.
Other Ideological traditions
Here you will explore ideologies that have extended debate
Entry Requirements.
in new, challenging and sometimes surprising ways. You Standard entry requirements.
will study Nationalism, Multiculturalism, Ecologism and
Feminism ideological movements that have developed
out of or have emerged in opposition to Liberalism,
Conservatism and Socialism.

What sort of work will I be doing?

This course provides you with the opportunity to examine
structures of authority and power in the UK and how they
might compare to other places. You will learn about rights
and responsibilities of individuals in society, about the main
political theories and about how government decisions are
made. You will develop a range of skills including critical
evaluation, analysis, problem solving, teamwork, constructive
argument and debate, and the ability to communicate
effectively in written and spoken form. This course will
appeal to those who want to discover answers to
fundamental questions such as How can we live
together in harmony without resort to violence?

48
 Level 3 (Advanced) Courses

Graphic Communication
AQA

What will I be studying?

Graphic Communication conveys information and ideas
by visual means. This course focuses on the commercial
side of Art and Design.
This course will give you the opportunity to explore your
own design practice through the development of practical
skills, problem solving ability, creative thinking and self-
motivation. You will be supported in developing an awareness
of contemporary design practice both in the UK and abroad.

AS Level
Unit 1: Coursework Portfolio
A collection of research and developmental work to support
design solutions to project briefs including at least one
extended project. This may include written material and
where appropriate, three-dimensional models.
What sort of work will I be doing?
Unit 2: Externally Set Assignment The topics include typography, illustration, advertising,
packaging, design for print and some multimedia skills which
This unit emphasises the development of ideas. Students
are essential for the industry. Traditional practical skills are
select one out of a choice of externally set questions, and
combined with modern day techniques and ICT, (students
after a period of initial research carry out five hours of
will learn industry standard software including Adobe
unaided, supervised work leading either to finished pieces
InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop and 2D Design, there are also
or developed work.
opportunities to learn 3D modelling software, Solid Works) to
A2 Level create solutions for various design briefs.
Candidates are required to build upon the knowledge,
understanding and skills gained in AS with greater depth
How will I be assessed?
of study: You will receive continual assessment on your progress and
termly progress tutorials. Your final assessment for your AS
Unit 3: Personal Investigation level award is as follows:
Practical unit with written elements in which students Unit 1: Coursework Portfolio (worth 50% of AS year)
develop one in-depth idea, issue, concept or theme leading to
Unit 2: Externally Set Assignment (worth 50% of AS year)
a finished piece of work using skills acquired at AS level.
Unit 3: Personal Investigation (worth 50% of A2 year)
Unit 4: Externally set assignment Unit 4: Externally Set Assignment (worth 50% of A2 year)
This unit emphasises the development of ideas. Students
select one out of a choice of externally set questions and Where will it take me?
after a period of initial research carry out 15 hours of unaided, A level Graphic Communication enables access to further
supervised work leading either to finished pieces or study, through a portfolio of work onto foundation courses
developed work. in Art or Graphic Design and courses at BA Honours
Degree Level.

Entry Requirements.
Standard entry requirements.

49
 Health and Social
Care Single
OCR

What will I be studying? How will I be assessed?

The A level is unit based and there are 3 units to be completed: Promoting Quality Care is an examined unit taken in the
Promoting Quality Care: content includes discrimination and summer term whilst the two other units described above
anti-discrimination laws and policies, socialisation processes, are internally assessed pieces of coursework. These are also
barriers to accessing health and social care services and externally moderated by OCR. Therefore two thirds of your
equality of opportunity in society. marks come from coursework and one third from exams. The
amount of coursework gives you the opportunity to take real
Communication in Care Settings: content includes
responsibility for your level of achievement.
investigation of communication methods and skills.
Promoting Good Health: content includes the study of what Where will it take me?
is health and participation in a health promotion campaign This subject gives you access to degrees in nursing, midwifery,
which requires planning and evaluating. occupational therapy, radiography, teaching and social work
or employment in related areas.
What sort of work will I be doing?
One of the above units is examined so you will have class Entry Requirements.
lessons to study the content. Two units are wholly coursework Standard entry requirements.
where, with teacher guidance, you will investigate and
research various issues defined within the unit specifications.
This research will be done in the classroom with various
resources available to you to assist in the production of your
work. The communication unit requires you to visit a setting
in order to observe communication skills and be involved
with various activities. In particular you will be involved in the
planning and participation of a significant health promotion
event run within the college. Homework is generally an
extension of your research generated in lessons.

50
 Level 3 (Advanced) Courses

Health and Social

Care Double
OCR

What will I be studying?

Jack Kildea
The double A level is unit based and there are 6 units
Test Valley School
to be completed:
Promoting Quality Care: content includes discrimination
and anti-discrimination laws and policies, socialisation
processes, barriers to accessing health and social care
services and equality of opportunity in society.
Communication in Care Settings: content includes
investigation of communication methods and skills.
Promoting Good Health: content includes the study of
what is health and participation in a health promotion
campaign which requires planning and evaluating.
Caring for People with Additional Needs: content includes
Subjects: Biology, Health and Social Care (Double)
investigating a range of causes of additional needs, the effect and Psychology.
on people of having conditions that give rise to disability Activities: Self Defence.
and the study of services, aids and physical adaptations Here at Symonds youll find support from the
that can be made to support people with disabilities. teachers and your tutor there to use if you need it.
Early Years Care and Education: content includes the study of It helps loads.
methods of learning and the evaluation of a learning activity.
Caring for Older People: content includes study of a range
of common illnesses experienced, the impact on an older you will be involved in the planning and participation of
persona emotionally and socially, legislation to support older a significant health promotion event run within college.
peoples needs and the services available to older people. Homework is generally an extension of your research
The first three units are core units and the second group generated in lessons.
of three are specialist units to give you knowledge and
insight into issues related to disability, childrens needs and
How will I be assessed?
important aspects of caring for older people in society. Promoting Quality Care and Caring for Older People are
examined units taken in the summer term whilst the four
What sort of work will I be doing? other units described above are internally assessed pieces
Two of the above units are examined so you will have of coursework. These are also externally moderated by OCR.
class lessons to study the content of each one. Four units Therefore two third of your marks come from coursework
are wholly coursework where, with teacher guidance, you and one third from exams. The amount of coursework gives
will investigate and research various issues defined within you the opportunity to take real responsibility for your
the unit specifications. This research will be done in the level of achievement.
classroom with various resources available to you to assist
in the production of your work. There are three separate
Where will it take me?
opportunities to participate in work experience over the two This subject gives you access to degrees in nursing, midwifery,
years with a range of people who use services (children, older occupational therapy, radiography, teaching and social work
people, people with learning difficulties and other additional or employment in related areas.
needs). This work experience will enhance your learning
experience and your research and give you valuable insight Entry Requirements.
into service provision to support peoples needs. In particular Standard entry requirements.

51
 History
Edexcel - Linear

What will I be studying?

Katie Lees
All History courses will include at least one module of British
Testbourne Community School
History. The A level will cover a period of at least 200 years.
In the first year, you will study 2 options, one of which will
be thematic.
The exam board currently offer the following themes:
Economy and Society, Life in a Totalitarian State, Revolutions,
the Struggle for Independence, the Establishment of the
Nation State, the Rise and Fall of Continental Fascism.

What sort of work will I be doing?

A level study is comprised largely of essay work, source
analysis, extension reading and independent research. You will
need to master concepts such as change, continuity, causes
and consequences. Subjects: Classical Civilisation, English Literature, History
(Late) and Spanish.
The department currently offers two overseas trips to Spain Activities: Basketball Team, Grade 5 Music Theory, HE+,
and Berlin. There are also extensive opportunities for Student Parliament, Student Union.
local visits. Aside from being a fantastic College
academically, the breadth and diversity of
How will I be assessed? extra-curricular interest and activities makes it
Assessment will be via exam and coursework. There are two appeal to a wide range of potential students."
exam papers in the first year. The second year is assessed via a
4000 word piece of coursework and a written paper.

Where will it take me? Entry Requirements.

Standard entry requirements.
History is useful for any career which involves researching
and analysing information and expressing arguments based
upon evidence. Good examples of this are careers in the Civil
Service, banking and accountancy, politics, social and business
administration, teaching, journalism, law, public relations and
personnel management.

52 52
53
 Italian Ab Initio
AQA

What will I be studying? How will I be assessed?

If you are a good linguist you can choose to begin the The course leads to the GCSE qualification at the end of the
language from scratch in the first year as one of your first year. All four skills are assessed in May:
advanced level choices. The Ab Initio course is accelerated Listening + Reading examination
and concentrates on the four key skills of listening, reading,
Speaking controlled assessment (internally assessed and
speaking and writing. Topics to be studied will include health
submitted for moderation)
and relationships, leisure time and media, holidays, home
and the environment, as well as work and education. In Writing controlled assessment (externally assessed)
the first term, there will be a lot of emphasis on grammar Students will be set weekly tasks to reinforce the newly
in order to allow you to gain confidence in manipulating learnt grammar points and vocabulary and to familiarise
and understanding the language. You will take a GCSE themselves with the exam formats.
examination at the end of the first year. However, you
will have been taught to a level substantially above the Where will it take me?
requirements of GCSE and will be prepared for taking AS/A2 Students who have gained an A or A* in the GCSE exam
in the second year. may progress onto AS/A2 in the second year. At A2, you will
continue to enhance your knowledge of the target language,
What sort of work will I be doing? improving your linguistic skills, whilst using the language to
In class, you will practise all four skills and will engage present viewpoints, develop, analyse and evaluate arguments
in whole class, group and pair discussions. From January both when speaking and writing.
through to May students also have a small group (usually in Many Ab Initio students who have taken AS/A2 exams go and
3s) conversation session with a Foreign Language Assistant. study Italian at university level.
There is a clear independent study programme to complete
outside lessons, dividing your weekly study time between Entry Requirements.
reading, writing and listening tasks. You will also have the
Standard entry requirements including A*/A in a
opportunity to use your Italian in Italy, on our very popular,
foreign language.
annual trip to Pavia.

54
 Level 3 (Advanced) Courses

Italian AS/A2
Edexcel

What will I be studying? How will I be assessed?

The AS course will move you on from GCSE covering All four skills reading, writing, listening and oral will be
all four skills. You will gain a greater knowledge of the assessed at both AS and A2 levels , with greater emphasis on
grammatical structures and so develop accuracy in the the production of the language (speaking and writing) at A2.
language. Teaching is based on a thematic approach and AS 2 exams, Unit 1 - Oral + Unit 2 Listening,
the language is taught through a variety of contemporary Reading and Writing.
issues, using authentic resources.
A2 2 exams, Unit 3 Oral (+Listening) + Unit 4
At A2, you will continue to enhance your knowledge of the Written paper.
target language, improving your linguistic skills, whilst using
the language to present viewpoints, develop, analyse and Where will it take me?
evaluate arguments both when speaking and writing.
This practical, applied approach to the study of Italian means
At both levels, you will study aspects of the contemporary that it will be useful to students of the arts and sciences alike.
society and culture of Italy. In higher education, Italian can be studied in combination
with many other courses, and many degrees, including those
What sort of work will I be doing? in the sciences will offer students the chance to complete part
Your aim will be to improve your language skills, whilst of their degree abroad. Modern Languages graduates are in
gaining an understanding of the contemporary society, great demand in the job market.
cultural background and heritage of Italy. You will learn
to speak and write at length in Italian about all aspects Entry Requirements.
of Italian society and culture. The general topic areas at Standard entry requirements including a grade B or
AS are; youth culture and concerns; lifestyle, health and above in GCSE Italian.
fitness; travel, tourism and environmental issues; education
and employment. These topics are accompanied at A2 by
customs, traditions and beliefs; national and international
events; literature and the arts. In class, you will practise all
four skills and will engage in whole class, group and pair
discussions. From October through to May students also have
a small group (in 2s or 3s) conversation session with a Foreign
Language Assistant. There is a clear independent study
programme to complete outside lessons, dividing your weekly
study time between reading, writing and listening tasks. You
will also have the opportunity to use your Italian in Italy, on
our very popular, annual trip to Pavia.

55
 Latin
OCR

What will I be studying? In the Literature lessons, we will work together to produce a
workable translation of the Ovid and Cicero set texts and will
This course builds on your study of Latin at GCSE and
also examine the stylistic and content-based features which
comprises two units.
make them excellent examples of their kind. We will also work
In the Language unit, you will be looking to improve your on the techniques required to produce better answers to the
knowledge of, and familiarity with, the language, taking different types of questions set in the exam and you will be
on more complex sentence constructions and vocabulary. given several opportunities to practice this.
Although your main focus will be to enable you to tackle
unseens which will be quite a bit harder than those met at How will I be assessed?
GCSE, you will also have the opportunity to try some English
In the Language unit you will have a series of short
sentences into Latin as part of your study.
answer grammar and vocabulary exercises to assess your
In the Literature unit, you will study in-depth 225 or so lines understanding and learning. Unseens will be marked using
each of a Roman poet and prose author. For your year, this the mark schemes set out in the OCR specification, as will
will comprise a selection from Ovids Matamorphoses (the the exam-style questions set as part of the Literature unit.
story of Pentheus and how his challenge to the authority of
the god Bacchus led to a grisly demise at the hands of his Where will it take me?
mother); and from Ciceros De Imperio, his impassioned plea Latin is widely accepted (and positively welcomed) for
for the command of the Roman forces in the Mediterranean university entrance for all but the most specialist courses and
to be awarded to Gnaeus Pompeius Magnus (aka Pompey). whilst there are few careers which call for students to make
As well as seeing what the Latin means (and how it comes to direct use of their Latin, the skills and disciplines needed to do
mean it), you will also study the context in which the work well in the subject are widely admired by a diverse range
came to be written and what makes it successful as a piece of potential employers.
of literature of its type.
The A2 course will involve study of more Latin and although Entry Requirements.
there will still be an element of translation work, there Standard entry requirements including a grade B or
will also be a greater focus on comprehension and literary above in GCSE Latin.
appreciation. Again you will study a poet and a prose author,
most likely Virgil and Tacitus.
Students taking Latin at AS but not wishing to continue to A2
can join the A2 Classical Civilisation course and study for a
full A level called Classics.

What sort of work will I be doing?

In the Language lessons you will be looking at, and be given
practice in, translating complex sentence constructions, whilst
you will be increasing your knowledge of Latin vocabulary
through preparation for regular vocabulary tests. You will also
develop your skills in tackling increasingly difficult unseen
exercises. You will tackle this work both individually
and in groups.

56
 Level 3 (Advanced) Courses

Law
AQA

What will I be studying? build your confidence and exam technique. You will need to
be organised and thorough in your command of detail, have
The course is designed to engage your interest and does not
a mature approach to independent learning and be willing to
depend upon prior knowledge. A level Law will develop your
contribute to class discussions. You will have the opportunity
understanding of the Legal system; how the law is made and
to visit the courts, take park in mock trals and listen to guest
the way that both civil and criminal courts operate, including
speakers including magistrates, university lectures and ex-
trial by jury and sentencing of offenders. You will learn the
students who are now practising lawyers.
key principles of contract and Crime, as well as explore
contemporary issues of justice and morality.
How will I be assessed?
The study of Law enables you to develop analytical and
You will be assessed by external examinations in May/June:
critical thinking skills.It cultivates the lawyer-like ability to
solve problems through the application of legal rules; using AS Examinations
legal method and reasoning. The approach to problem solving
Unit 1: Law Making and the Legal System, 50% of AS;
and essay writting mirrors closely that used for extended
25% of A level. Answer questions on three topics
legal writting at university, offering good preparation for Law
(1 hour 30 minutes)
degree courses.
Unit 2: The Concept of Liability, 50% of AS; 25% of A level.
What sort of work will I be doing? Answer questions on two scenarios one on Crime and one
on Contract (1 hour 30 minutes).
Activities include lectures, discussions, group work, research
and essay writting. You will be given study booklets, which A2 Examinations
reduce the burden of note taking, but be aware that there is a
Unit 3: Criminal Law (Offences against the Person), 25%
lot of reading. Copies of books that you need to consult will
of A level. Answer three questions on one scenario
be available in the classroom and in the Learning Resources
(1 hour 30 minutes)
Centre. You will practice exam questions regularly in order to
Unit 4: Criminal Law (Offences against Property)
and Concepts of Law 25% of A level Answer. Two questions
on one scenario and one extended essay question (2 hours).
Ryan Wood
The Westgate School Progression
Law is a relevant and marketable subject to study as a
preparation for higher education and for a wide variety of
careers. Many of our former students are now qualified
barristers and solicitors, or have entered related careers in
the police force, civil service and business. A level law will
give you a head-start in three of the 'core' components of any
qualifying law degree - Legal Systems, the Law of Contract
and Criminal Law courses, including the most highly
selective universities.

Entry Requirements.
Standard entry requirements.
Subjects: History, Law, PE and Psychology.

Peter Symonds is a superb College and helps you

settle in well. Ive met lots of new people. Ive really
enjoyed the teachers attitude to let you get on
with your own work knowing help is available
when needed.

57
 Mathematics
OCR/MEI

What will I be studying? Helen Hadlington

Throughout the course we make much use of GCSE algebra, Kings School (Winchester)
such as rearranging formulae, working with inequalities,
solving simultaneous equations, manipulating indices and
surds. It is important that you are confident with this material
when you start the course.

AS Maths consists of three units: Core 1, Core 2 and

Statistics 1.
Core 1 starts where GCSE finishes, with straight line graphs
and quadratic functions. We go on to make a systematic
study of polynomial graphs and equations. A central idea is
Subjects: Chemistry, English Literature, History and Maths.
how graphs, equations and functions are related.
Activities: Inspirational Maths talks, Poetry masterclass,
In Core 2 we revisit trigonometry, exploring the Stitch and Bitch.
trigonometric functions. We find out what the log button There is always something here for you to enjoy.
on your calculator does, and how it helps us solve equations The teaching is of a very high standard and the
we could not solve before. The crowning glory of the unit is opportunity for trips is huge. My choices are
the work on calculus, which can be thought of as the study stereotypically boring subjects, but as the teaching
of gradients and areas, but Newton used it to solve a great is so engaging and the extra-curricular activities
many practical problems.
so helpful they only add to the enthusiasm I have
gained for them.
In Statistics 1 we take a deeper look at probability.
Venn diagrams help us see a situation more clearly and
conditional probabilities enable us to answer more subtle
questions. The binomial distribution that will enable us to How will I be assessed?
calculate the chance of getting 3 sixes from 10 rolls of a dice,
Each of the three units are assessed with a 90 minute exam in
but more importantly we can use the same technique to
the summer term. Core 1 is a non-calculator paper. Scientific
test whether a new medicine is effective or even if someone
and graphical calculators are allowed in Core 2 and Statistics 1.
is telepathic.
There are three more 90 minute exams in A2 Maths plus a
You will be set weekly homework to reinforce current ideas
piece of course work (20% of the Core 3 unit) and a 1 hour
and to revise previous topics. Every lunchtime the Maths
comprehension paper (20% of the Core 4 unit).
workshop is staffed by teachers and second year students.
You will need to purchase your own textbooks, stationery Where will it take me?
and a graphical calculator. The College sells the Casio fx9750 A pass in A level Mathematics provides a sound basis for
model for about 50. There is another calculator available for many degree courses but is essential for those studying
about 15 which has many useful facilities, but does not draw courses with a high level of maths content, such as
graphs (Casio fx991). The Student Support Fund exists for mathematics, physics, traditional engineering and computer
those students who have difficulty meeting these costs. science. It is highly desirable for numerous other courses such
as economics, medicine and the sciences.
What sort of work will I be doing?
Lessons will include a variety of activities; investigations, class Entry Requirements.
discussions, working collaboratively and of course the practice Standard entry requirements including a grade A or A*
that makes perfect. Mathematics could be described as in GCSE Maths.
the study of patterns and so you will be encouraged to be
curious about the ideas you meet and imagine how we can
connect them.

58
 Level 3 (Advanced) Courses

Further Mathematics
OCR/MEI

What will I be studying? You will need to purchase your own textbooks, stationery
and a graphical calculator. The College sells the Casio fx9750
Students take this course alongside AS Mathematics.
model for about 50. There is another calculator available for
AS Further Maths consists of three units, Further Pure 1,
for about 15 (Casio fx991) which has many useful facilities,
Mechanics and Decision Maths.
but does not draw graphs. The College has a Student Support
The Further Pure 1 unit introduces complex numbers which Fund for those students who have difficulty meeting
are essentially two dimensional numbers which allow us these costs.
to square root negative numbers. Matrices, are another
new mathematical concept, we use them to understand How will I be assessed?
transformations and gain further insight into simultaneous
Each of the three units are assessed with a 90 minute exam
equations. Proof by induction gives Further Maths 1
in the summer term. Scientific and graphical calculators are
more rigour and a great glimpse of the certainty that sets
allowed in all units. There is no coursework in AS
Mathematics apart from all other subjects.
Further Maths.
In Mechanics we concern ourselves with how to describe
Each of the three additional A2 Further Maths units are
the motion of objects, ultimately using calculus to link
also assessed with a 90 minute exam.
displacement, velocity and acceleration. Central to the unit are
Newtons laws of motion which we use to construct equations
Where will it take me?
of motion for objects in various situations.
Further Maths is required by the most selective universities
In Decision Maths we use suprisingly simple diagrams of dots for a degree in Mathematics. It will also be an advantage to
connected by lines to model lots of useful situations. The anyone doing a highly mathematical degree such as physics,
most obvious of which is places and roads between them. An traditional engineering and computer science.
obvious question is then what is the shortest route between
two of these places?. Entry Requirements.
A2 Further Maths consists of three more units, including Standard entry requirements including a grade A or A*
another Further Pure unit and a choice between a variety in GCSE Maths.
of other applications.
You will be set homework to reinforce current ideas and to
revise previous topics.

59
 Use of Mathematics
AQA

What will I be studying? How will I be assessed?

The course, comprising 3 units, is all about using mathematics For AS there are three one hour exams in the summer term.
to understand real world situations. The questions are all based on information from the real
The graphs and algebra unit starts with some familiar ideas world that is given to you three weeks before the exam.
from GCSE such as line graphs and quadratic curves. Given In A2 use of maths there are two pieces of coursework to
a set of data, such as the depth of water over time or profit submit, a 90 minute comprehension exam and a one hour
verses sale price, we want to be able to fit an appropriate exam on calculus.
function to it.
In the Data unit we use the Normal Distribution to model a
Where will it take me?
wide range of situations, from heights of people to how long Use of Mathematics would support any subject that uses
they might sleep each night. We re-visit scatter diagrams, and analyses numerical data or information graphically.
finding a way to quantify any correlation, between earnings This includes Business Studies, Geography, Biology and
and life expectancy say. Psychology. This course would not be appropriate for a
degree in Mathematics, Physics or traditional Engineering.
In the decision unit, networks can be used to describe
lots of real-life situations such as places and the distance
Entry Requirements.
between them, or it could be places and the cost of a train
ticket between them or certain points in a plan and the time Standard entry requirements including a grade B or
between them. above in GCSE Maths.

What sort of work will I be doing?

Lessons will be varied and will include investigations, and
working collaboratively. We make extensive use of IT such
as commercial software, online applications and a graphical
calculator. Lessons will be in a room equipped with PCs,
although we will still do the majority of our work on
paper. The exam board require students to have a
graphical calculator in the exams and we use it to do
all the tedious sums.
You will be set regular homework to reinforce and
consolidate current ideas and to revise previous topics.
You will need to purchase your own stationery and a graphical
calculator. The College sells the Casio fx9750 model for
about 50. There is another calculator available for about
15 (Casio fx991) which has many useful facilities, but does
not draw graphs. The College has a Student Support Fund
for those students who have difficulty meeting these costs.

60
 Level 3 (Advanced) Courses

Media Studies
WJEC

What will I be studying?

Jordan Knatt
This is a creative and critical based course which enables
John Hanson Community School
you to gain high level research and production skills (across
different forms) as well as develop your knowledge of
contemporary Media issues. You will explore a wide variety of
Media, including digital technology, drawing on fundamental
concepts informing the Media.

What sort of work will I be doing?

You will:
Explore production processes and technologies
(e.g. film making, music video production, print design)
Become independent in research skills and their application
in Media production work
Develop critical understanding of the Media through Subjects: Communication and Culture, Film Studies,
English Language and Media Studies.
engagement with products, concepts and through Activities: First Aid, History Film Club.
creative application
From the courses I am taking I have gained
Enhance your enjoyment and appreciation of the Media technical skills, knowledge and vocabulary as well as
and its role in daily life. an insight into the media industry and the process
of film making, all of which will help towards my
Teaching and learning on this course is varied and includes
future career, which will hopefully be in Directing/
group work, including practical exercises; whole class and
Cinematography or Screenplays.
group discussions; individual and group research; individual
and group presentations; lectures; student directed learning;
workshop and activity sessions.
The AS forms 50% of the assessment weighting of the full Where will it take me?
A level. AS can be taken as a stand-alone specification or as This course provides a suitable foundation for the study of
the first part of the full A level course. Media or a related area through a range of higher education
degree courses or direct entry into employment. Career
How will I be assessed? possibilities include journalism, practical production
(directing, filming, editing), marketing, PR, programming,
AS: research and advertising, among many other roles within a
Unit 1 Media Representation and Responses wide range of media industries. Media Studies courses provide
This is an examined unit worth 50% of the AS qualification. students with experience in a number of these fields and offer
Unit 2 Media Production Processes guidance on how to access these industries.
This is a coursework unit worth 50% of the AS qualification.
Entry Requirements.
A2: Standard entry requirements.
Unit 3 Media Investigation and Production
This is a coursework unit worth 50% of the A2 qualification.
Unit 4 Text, Industry and Audience
This is an examined unit worth 50% of the A2 qualification.

61
 Music (College)
Edexcel

What will I be studying? Progression

Performing (solo recital of 5-6 minutes at Grade Going on to study music at university or at a conservatoire
5 level or above) can lead to a career in performing, composing, conducting
Composing (one three-minute composition in your or teaching. Music can also lead to careers in the recording
own style in response to a chosen brief) industry, publishing, arts management and the media.

Developing Musical Understanding (written paper on set

works, listening tests and harmony exercises)
Entry Requirements.
Standard entry requirements plus Grade 5 or above in
A2 Music develops each of these units to a higher level.
one instrument or voice. Grade 5 Music Theory preferred.
Students without Grade 5 instruments or voice may be asked
What sort of work will I be doing? to audition. Those without Grade 5 Theory will need to pass a
This course is designed for students who enjoy music and simple notation test at enrollment and take additional theory
want to develop their skills in performing, composing, classes. Grade 5 Theory is required to progress to A2 study.
listening and writing about music. You can pursue your
preferred style in performing and free composition, while
the written paper is based on a range of set works selected
Katie Macdonald
Hampshire Collegiate School
from classical, pop, film scores and world music. There are
lots of opportunities for you to play and sing in orchestras,
jazz bands and choirs. Many smaller groups (like classical
ensembles and rock bands) get a chance to showcase their
work in our weekly lunch time concerts. The college provides
30 minutes weekly free instrumental/vocal tuition to A level
Music students with our team of visiting music teachers.
There are master classes and workshops given by professional
performers, plus trips to a range of live music events.
Subjects: Drama, Music (HSMC) and Philosophy.
Activities: College Choir, Kelso Choir, Symonds Orchestra
How will I be assessed?
Im hoping to study voice at Music College in
Performing: performances are recorded, internally
London and my studies have greatly improved my
assessed and externally moderated
musical understanding and offered me a way to
Composing: all composing is coursework, monitored meet people with similar interests.
by teachers and externally assessed
Written paper including listening tests: assessed by
means of examination.

62
 Level 3 (Advanced) Courses

Music (Hampshire Specialist Music Course)

Edexcel

What will I be studying? Specific Entry Requirements.

This is the same A level Music course with additional Standard entry requirements. Plus you will need to include
performing opportunities, designed for gifted young people extra information on the online application form by selecting
who are thinking seriously about pursuing a career in music the HSMC option, which should be submitted by December
performance. The course is designed to help you develop the 12th 2014. You will be asked to attend for an audition in
skills, confidence and musical maturity needed to gain a place January or February 2015, when you will be required to
to read music at a conservatoire or university. Twelve places perform two pieces on your first study instrument/voice
are offered each year, selected by audition. (Grade 7/8 standard) and one piece on your second study
instrument/voice, as well as sight-reading tests and
The HSMC course includes: a short interview.
Excellent teaching from an experienced team of You are warmly invited to attend our Hampshire Specialist
A level teachers Music Course Presentation on Monday 13th October 2014
Weekly individual tuition: one hour on your first study and from 6.30pm, when you can meet staff and students, hear our
30 minutes on your second study (one of which must be current students perform, look around the department and
piano) from a team of high-powered visiting teachers discuss the course in detail. For full details contact the music
Preparation for the ABRSM Diploma on your first office or see our website.
instrument/voice (Please note that students take the HSMC course in addition
Weekly chamber music coaching to a full academic timetable which includes A level music as
Many opportunities to perform in ensembles and as a one of your four AS choices.)
soloist in recitals, accompanied by our Head of Keyboard
Master classes and workshops given by
Entry Requirements.
professional performers Standard entry requirements plus successful audition.

Trips to a range of live music events.

63
 Music Technology
Edexcel

What will I be studying? How will I be assessed?

This is a course which takes a practical look at Popular Music The course has a strong practical element, with 70% of the
through the use of Music Technology. You will study in detail: AS grade and 60% of the A2 grade being obtained through
The principles and practice of Music Technology coursework tasks. There is also an exam in the summer. For
AS, the final exam is based on the history and development
The development of technology based and popular music
of popular music, at A2 the exam focuses on production and
from 1910 to the present day
analysis skills.
Pop music analysis
Music production techniques Where will it take me?
The course makes extensive use of music production software Students have gone on to study Music Technology and Music
and recording studio equipment. You will develop an in-depth courses at university and music college, and have pursued
understanding of several software packages including Apples careers in audio production, sound design, music industry
Logic and native Instruments Komplete, and will learn how management and music publishing. The course helps to equip
to analyse popular music focussing on musical and technical students with skills required for a career in the music industry,
features found in a number of key styles. as well as valuable life skills such as the ability to organise
people, time and resources, the ability to give the utmost
What sort of work will I be doing? attention to detail, the ability to process complex data
You will learn how to use computer software and studio and think logically.
equipment to record, compose, arrange and produce music.
Practical tasks will include sequencing a given score using Entry Requirements.
Apples Logic and Native Instruments Komplete software Standard entry requirements plus a grade B at GCSE Music.
packages, making a multi-track recording in the studio, A proven performing ability on an instrument or voice is
and creating an arrangement of a given piece of music in a essential (e.g. Rock School or ABRSM exams) as well as the
style prescribed by the exam board. Listening and Analysing ability to read music notation confidently. (If you do not have
lessons will focus on the development of popular music ABRSM grade 5 Music Theory you will need to pass a theory
since 1910 with a focus on how technology has been used to test at enrolment).
influence and shape popular music.

64
Level 3 (Advanced) Courses

65
 Performance Studies
OCR

What will I be studying?

This is an exciting and broad course for those who want
to perform and develop their performance skills and their
understanding of contemporary theatre.
In the AS year, you will be studying how to create
performance in a physical theatre style across the art forms
of drama, dance and music. You will create an integrated
performance, which will be performed in a community venue
and you will write about your experiences of developing
theatre. You will also study professional practitioners such
as Frantic Assembly, Jasmin Vardimon and Gecko Theatre,
through live theatre and recorded productions, in order to
develop your understanding and performance techniques. You
will also study John Godber and Matthew Bourne.
In A2, the course is even more practical and focuses heavily on
group devised work derived from a commission (50%) and an
individual monologue or duologue or solo/duo dance (20%).

What sort of work will I be doing?

This course is very practical and is taught through a series
of whole class practical workshops, group devising work
and rehearsal.
In AS, you will be creating 3 small performances in the first
term followed by a longer devised piece all of which are based
on set stimuli which you will explore as a group. Alongside
this there is some more formal theoretical exploration of Where will it take me?
theatre. You will also be taking part in practical workshops
Students often go on to drama or dance school or to study
with professional practitioners and going on trips to see
performance/drama at university. However, many students go
several exciting live theatre productions. You will join trips far
to study many other subjects at university and Performance
and wide to such theatres as Bristol Old Vic, Warwick Arts
Studies is welcomed especially for English,
Centre, the Barbican Theatre and the National Theatre in
Arts or Humanities subjects.
London and also closer to home such as The Point in Eastleigh
or the Theatre Royal in Winchester.
Entry Requirements.
In A2 as the course is 70% practical assessment. Standard entry requirements plus a Grade C or above in either
Drama, Dance or exams of equivalent status.
How will I be assessed?
There are two units in each year. In AS, the first unit is made
up of the community performance which is 30% and your
coursework on how you have created your work which is
40%. There is also a written examination which is 30%.
In the A2 year the practical assessment is 70% and the
written examination is 30%.

66
 Level 3 (Advanced) Courses

Philosophy
AQA

What will I be studying? Where will it take me?

The course has been designed to introduce you to the key Philosophy is a subject that compliments many areas
methods and concepts in philosophy through the study of of study including law, politics, history, sociology,
four central questions: english, biology, chemistry, maths and music. It is
What can we know?, Can the existence of God be proved?, a highly regarded and rigorous academic subject
How do we make moral decisions? and Are my mind that will be of use to a wide range of careers.
and body separate?
Entry Requirements.
You will be required to demonstrate an understanding of the
Standard entry requirements.
arguments on both sides of these debates and to
make a reasoned evaluation of them.
Josh Dare
AS Level Kings School (Winchester)
Epistemology: This covers perception, knowledge and the
origin of knowledge
Philosophy of Religion: This covers the concept of god and the
arguments relating to the existence of God.

A2 Level
Ethics: This will cover ethical themes as well as;
Philosophy of Mind: This looks at the mind-body problem:
what is the relationship between the mental and the physical?
Each course is supported by an online anthology (provided by
the exam board) to enable you to examine these arguments in
their original contexts.
Subjects: Philosophy, History (Early), Classic
Civilisation, Law.
What sort of work will I be doing? Activities: Law Society, Law SPOC representative
All your learning experiences will be designed to enable Peter Symonds is a superb College and helps you
you to fully understand the material and move swiftly from settle in well. Ive met lots of new people. Ive really
assimilating new information to applying it. One of the enjoyed the teachers attitude to let you get on
key skills you will be developing is the ability to evaluate with your own work knowing help is available
arguments and to communicate your response effectively. when needed.
You will practice a number of different types of assessment
questions. Each unit is accompanied by a course booklet to
enable you to access the knowledge you require efficiently.

How will I be assessed?

There will be a three hour AS exam in June.
There will be a three hour A2 exam at the end of the second
year which with your AS will give you the full A level.

67
 Physical Education
AQA

What will I be studying? You will study contemporary topics in sport to equip you with
the skills and knowledge for entrance into higher education
AS Level or employment. You will further your knowledge and
Unit 1: Theoretical knowledge involves: understanding of the importance of exercise and activity to
your personal, social and mental health and well-being. The
The physiology of the body and the effects on this due
wide variety of teaching styles used, within the delivery of
to exercise
prescribed topics, will encourage you to develop a capacity for
Skill acquisition element - consider how we learn skills and
critical thinking and to get you to appreciate the relationship
how we successfully process information during sport
between the diverse aspects of Physical Education and Sport.
Opportunities for participation in sport and physical activity
from a sociological perspective. How will I be assessed?
Unit 2: Practical element involves:
AS Level:
Submission of two marks in roles of performing, coaching Unit 1: 2 hour theory exam at the end of AS year (worth 60%)
or officiating in one or two sports
Unit 2: Submission of two practical marks in roles of
In each role you will consider the core skills of the sport in
performing, coaching or officiating in one or two sports
isolation and as part of conditioned practices or games.
(worth 40%)
A2 Level
A2 Level
Unit 3: Theoretical knowledge involves:
Unit 3: 2 hour theory exam at the end of A2 year (worth 60%)
The physiological demands on an elite athlete and the
Unit 4: Submission of one practical mark in the role of
mechanics of movement in sport
performing, coaching or officiating , together with a written
Psychologically how an elite performer prepares mentally project (worth 40%)
for competition and deals with the effects of losing
Contemporary influences such as: the Olympics, Where will it take me?
commercialism and TV coverage on the elite sports person. This is a fantastic qualification for anyone who is interested in
Unit 4: The practical element at A2 level, together with a the science of sport and would love to apply that knowledge
written project involves: OR use it as another well respected AS or A level. The skills
and knowledge gained can supplement many careers or as
Focus on just one sport and one role. It involves improving
a main focus for those of you who want to continue your
your own performance in a full competitive setting as a
study of sport.
performer, coach or official
A written project will involve analysing weaknesses in Entry Requirements.
this role and using theoretical knowledge gained from the
Standard entry requirements including a Grade C or above
course to improve these weaknesses.
in GCSE Science.

What sort of work will I be doing?

This course expands on many of the ideas and concepts you
have already encountered in school PE lessons. It answers
questions such as: How does a country prepare for a major
event like a World Cup or an Olympic Games? How can a
cross country skier complete 50km in 1 hour 46 minutes? How
does a golfer deal with the enormous pressure to secure a 20
ft putt in the Ryder cup?

68
Level 3 (Advanced) Courses

69
 Physics
OCR - Linear

What will I be studying? How will I be assessed?

Physics is really about asking fundamental questions and The course is assessed though a series of examination papers
trying to answer them by observing and experimenting. at the end of the course. The papers include range of question
Physicists ask really big questions like: How did the universe styles such as multiple-choice, structured questions and those
begin? and What are the basic building blocks of matter? requiring an extended response. You will be tested on your
But Physics doesnt just deal with theoretical concepts - its ability to carry out mathematical calculations and written
applied everywhere, including the development of sustainable explanations. Practical skills developed during the course are
forms of energy, treating cancer through radiotherapy, also assessed within the examination papers.
diagnosing illness through various types of imaging,
developing computer games and designing sports equipment. Where will it take me?
You will already have come across some of the concepts of Physics develops skills that provide an excellent basis for
physics at GCSE such as forces, energy, waves, radioactivity, a wide range of careers and Higher Education courses.
electricity and magnetism. At A level you will begin to It is essential (with Mathematics) for entry to Physics or
grasp the universal principles that apply to everything from Engineering degree level courses. More generally it can
the smallest atoms to the largest galaxies. The first year also lead towards careers in finance, law, architecture
work includes imaging techniques, the use of sensors in and journalism.
electric circuits, digital communication, the properties and
structure of materials, the study of forces and motion, wave Entry Requirements.
properties and quantum behaviour. The second year of the Standard entry requirements including additional
course is more mathematical and includes the modelling of requirements set out on page 21.
radioactive decay and oscillations, the study of gravitational
fields and examining the evidence for the big bang theory
Benjie Wang
of the universe. Magnetic and electric fields are covered
Cantell Maths and Computing College
in applications such as particle accelerators. The course
concludes with a study of the fundamental particles inside
atoms and the uses and effects of ionising radiation.

What sort of work will I be doing?

Making observations enables you to uncover the relationships
between quantities in physics. Your practical skills will be
developed through carrying out experiments. You will learn
to understand the importance of the estimation of physical
quantities and appreciate the limitations of measurements. If
you are going to understand physics, you will also need to get
to grips with a certain amount of maths and so choosing to
study Mathematics alongside Physics is highly recommended. Subjects: Chemistry, Computing, Maths, Further
Maths and Physics.
You will be given the opportunity to take part in enrichment Activities: IFS Personal Finance Level 2, National Cipher
opportunities including our annual trip to CERN in Geneva, Challenge, Recreational Badminton.
and to visit research facilities here in the UK such as the Peter Symonds is a superb College and helps you
Diamond Light synchrotron at the Rutherford Appleton settle in well. Ive met lots of new people. Ive really
Laboratory near Oxford. The Physics Department also runs enjoyed the teachers attitude to let you get on
activities such as Robotics in which students design and build with your own work knowing help is available
a robot to compete in international competitions. when needed.

70
 Level 3 (Advanced) Courses

Product Design
AQA

What will I be studying? Where will it take me?

Product Design is a pro-active course, you will need to enjoy An A level in Product Design is a useful subject if you intend
experimenting, testing and modelling with a wide range of to study design, building, engineering and architectural
materials and CAD software to get the most from this course. courses at university or intend to go into employment in any
If you want to make decisions that affect what and how you of these areas. It is usual to produce a portfolio of your work
learn then this would be a good course choice for you. to take to interviews for design based courses in Product
Design, Product Design Engineering, Product Design CAD,
What sort of work will I be doing? and Architecture.
You will complete one design and make project during the AS
year. You will focus on problem solving and creative designing Entry Requirements.
using a wide range of modelling techniques. Much of your Standard entry requirements.
time will be spent experimenting and modelling with different
materials, joining and manufacturing methods so that you are
able to really understand how your design can be created.
You will keep a sketch book and e folder that records
your experiments, and the design and development of
your product. The knowledge gained from your practical
experiments will enable you to plan in detail the most cost
effective way your product can be manufactured.
The topics you will study will include a range of materials,
and manufacturing techniques relevant to the products you
will design and manufacture. Traditional practical skills are
combined with modern day techniques and ICT; you will have
the opportunity to use two CAD packages, 2D Design and the
3D modelling software Solid Works. Both of these packages
are available free of charge.
At least five hours self-directed study is expected every
week. This will take the form of research tasks, design and
development and modelling. You will also complete product
analysis exercises of a range of products and examination
questions in preparation for the written examination in May.

How will I be assessed?

Coursework: You will receive regular feedback on your
progress at pre-determined intervals during the term. You
will be expected to complete two design and make tasks
during the AS year.
Written examination: regular feedback from homework
tasks will be through teacher marking, class discussion
and self-marking.

71
 Psychology
AQA Spec A

What will I be studying? How will I be assessed?

Psychology is the scientific study of human and animal The Advanced Subsidiary award comprises two assessment
behaviour. Psychology involves the examination of various units. The assessment units take the form of examinations
theories and consideration of research evidence. You will need involving multiple choice questions, short structured answers
to be a critical thinker and evaluate material in an objective and mini essays. Each exam lasts 90 minutes. The AS exam
and analytical manner. does not contribute to the A level final grade.
At AS level, the course will introduce key areas and The Advanced Level award comprises three assessment units
approaches in Psychology, including cognitive, developmental mainly involving multiple choice questions, short answer
and social psychology as well as the study of individual questions and essay style questions. Each of the exams
differences and research methods. lasts 120 minutes.
In Psychology you will look to answer questions such as;
How can we improve our memory? Why do we forget?
Where will it take me?
What effect do nurseries have on our children? What The skills and knowledge acquired through studying
causes mental health problems? Would I make a good Psychology provide a sound basis for students who wish
eyewitness? Why do we follow the crowd? How successful to enter higher education. It is also a suitable course for
are treatments for mental disorders? those who wish to take up employment immediately from
college. The course provides a useful background for nursing,
At A2 level, there will be topics from the AS and also biological
personnel work, marketing related careers, advertising and
psychology, media psychology, social psychology and
teaching. Some students may which to follow through
abnormal psychology there will also be some emphasis on
their interest in this subject to work in an applied area
carrying out and conducting research. The kind of questions
of psychology.
you might answer include: What do we look for in a partner?
What makes people aggressive? What causes schizophrenia
Entry Requirements.
and what treatments are available?
Standard entry requirements including additional
What sort of work will I be doing? requirements set out on page 21.

The courses are taught by well-qualified and experienced

members of staff. Students will learn through a variety of Dan Shaw
methods including whole-class lessons, group work and Thornden School
individual work. Students will be expected to carry out
reading and note-taking as part of their extension work
outside of their formal classroom teaching.
As there are many controversial issues within Psychology,
these are best explored and discussed in essay form. You will
need to develop the critical, objective style of the scientific
essay in which evidence is evaluated. A good standard of
literacy is, therefore, essential. You will develop a number of
other skills during the course including oral discussion and
presentations, management of individual or small group
projects, research and report writing using statistics and word Subjects: Biology, Geography, PE and Psychology.
Activities: Mens Football Team.
processing skills. You will be expected to read broadly around
the subject and watch any relevant television documentaries. I am enjoying the sport side of Symonds its
excellent! College is a huge step up from secondary
school in ability, facilities and scale. The rapport with
the teachers is very good as well as the quality of the
teaching. Im hoping to apply and achieve a soccer
scholarship to the United States.

72
 Level 3 (Advanced) Courses

Religious Studies
Edexcel

What will I be studying? Unit 4

The AS course introduces you to Buddhism and investigates The synoptic unit is a study of an anthology of three essays
key ethical issues and theories. As well as this you will presented by scholars on Buddhist themes. Candidates
embark on an investigations unit where you will learn are required to link the concepts in the essay to the wider
how to research, formulate and present an argument that field of their studies in all of the areas covered in AS
is directly linked to religion and ethics. The following topics and A2 and to religion and secular belief in general.
will be studied:
What sort of work will I be doing?
Unit 1 Buddhism The approach to teaching and learning is student
The historical and social background to the emergence centred and the teachers use a variety of tasks and
of Buddhism differentiation strategies including group work, discussion
The life works and importance of the Buddha and and individual work. There will also be the opportunity
his teachings to develop independent study through study packages
and resource based learning. Students will be expected
The Three Refuges
to complete a variety of timed and external research
Meditation
essays set by the teachers throughout the course.
Ethics
The relationship between religion and morality How will I be assessed?
Utilitarianism The course is assessed by examination; candidates are
Situation ethics required to sit two papers, one on Buddhism and Ethics (1
hour 45 mins) and one on the investigations unit (1 hour
Issues of war and peace
30 mins). Each paper makes up 50% of the AS grade.
Sexual ethics

Unit 2 Investigations
Where will it take me?
This Advanced level qualification is an excellent Humanities
This unit encourages the student to develop independent
qualification and will help gain entry into a wide range of
research skills on a topic of their choice within the required
higher education courses. Many of the skills developed
boundaries. The unit is assessed by an extended essay
through the course will relate to a wide range of careers,
and an exam.
such as the travel industry, public relations, journalism,
At A2 level TV and radio, police work, medicine, teaching and jobs
where the management of people is important.
The A2 course is a development on the themes studied
at AS, this will include:
Entry Requirements.
Unit 3 Philosophy of Religion Standard entry requirements.
Religious language
Debates on the non existence of God
Life and death
Religious experience
Buddhism
Nirvana
Buddhist scriptures
Mahayana Buddhism
Buddhist denominations/Pure Land/Zen

73
 Sociology
AQA - Linear

What will I be studying? to help you to develop your essay writing skills and utilise
contemporary resources and examples to encourage higher-
Sociology is the study of society that uses research evidence
order questioning and interpretation. In addition to formal
and social theories to analyse the nature and direction of
lessons we also offer a range of enrichment opportunities,
social change. The course is divided into three units and
for example guest speakers and visits to conferences where
assessed on the basis of three, two-hour exams. Unit 1
students can hear academics discuss their latest research.
Education and Methods in Context - analyses the role and
function of education, reasons for differential educational
achievement and the impact of government education
How will I be assessed?
policies and the challenges of researching educational issues. The course is assessed on the basis of three, two-hour
Unit 2 - Topics in Sociology - is divided between Families exams. Each exam has equal weighting and takes place at
and Households and Beliefs in Society. Both of these topics the end of the course. To help you develop the knowledge,
are used to explore the key social changes impacting on skills and understanding to succeed in these exams we use
contemporary society and the global context of beliefs, the common-assessed tasks that use past exam questions.
nature and extent of secularisation in the UK and other parts
of the world and the relationship between beliefs, practices Where will it take me?
and social inequalities. Unit 3 Crime and Deviance and A level Sociology is an excellent preparatory course for a
Theory and Methods - examines competing sociological Sociology or Sociology-related degree course. The course
explanations for crime and deviance, the relationship is well-regarded by all higher education institutions and
between globalisation and crime, environmental crime, provides an excellent foundation for careers in social
human rights and state crime and current approaches to research, teaching, social work, health-related professions,
surveillance and social control. The relationship between the Police, human resources, marketing, advertising
crime and victimisation and social groups (class, gender, and non-governmental development organisations.
age and ethnicity) is analysed and related to competing
research approaches and the critical evaluation of crime Entry Requirements.
statistics. The final section of this unit addresses the key Standard entry requirements.
theoretical and methodological debates in sociology.

What sort of work will I be doing?

We use a range of approaches towards teaching, learning
and assessment that aim to help you develop important
independent research skills and to think critically about
the core debates within sociology. The teaching team
draw upon contemporary issues and examples to enhance
lessons and we will be encouraging you to engage in
wider reading and research outside of your lessons. The
course is assessed through a combination of short-answer
comprehension questions and longer, evaluative essay
questions. Consequently our lessons include a balance
between teacher-led discussions, group work, whole class
debates and independent research tasks. We use class time

74
 Level 3 (Advanced) Courses

Spanish
Edexcel

What will I be studying? AS 2 exams, Unit 1 Oral + Unit 2 Listening,

Reading and Writing
The AS Spanish course will move you on from GCSE,
covering all four skills. You will gain a greater knowledge A2 2 exams, Unit 3 Oral (+Listening) + Unit 4
of the grammatical structures and so develop accuracy Written paper (+Translation)
in the language. Teaching is based on a thematic
approach and the language is taught through a variety Where will it take me?
of contemporary issues, using authentic resources. This practical, applied approach to the study of Spanish
The A2 course will enable you to develop your linguistic skills means that it will be useful to students of the arts and
further, whilst continuing to enhance your knowledge of sciences alike. In higher education, Spanish can be studied
the Spanish language, the country and its culture. You will in combination with many other courses, and many degrees,
use the language to present viewpoints, develop, analyse including those in the sciences. Modern languages graduates
and evaluate arguments both when speaking and writing. are in great demand in the job market.

At both levels, you will study aspects of the contemporary

Entry Requirements.
society and Hispanic culture and other Spanish-speaking
Standard entry requirements plus Grade B or above
countries.
in GCSE Spanish.
What sort of work will I be doing?
Your aim will be to improve your language skills, whilst
gaining an understanding of the contemporary society,
cultural background and heritage of Spain and Latin
America. You will learn to speak and write at length in
Spanish about all aspects of Spanish-speaking societies and
cultures. The general topic areas at AS are: youth culture
and concerns; lifestyle, health and fitness; travel, tourism
and environmental issues; education and employment.
These topics are accompanied at A2 by customs, traditions
and beliefs; national and international events; literature
and the arts. In class, you will practise all four skills and
will engage in whole class, group and pair discussions.
From October through to May students also have a small
group conversation session with a Foreign Language
Assistant. There is a clear independent study programme
to complete outside lessons. You will also have the
opportunity to join the annual Spanish study visit to Spain.
Enthusiasm and commitment to learning are essential to
language acquisition at this level.

How will I be assessed?

All four skills reading, writing, listening and oral will be
assessed at both AS and A2 levels, with greater emphasis on
the production of the language (speaking and writing) at A2.

75
 BTEC Courses
BTEC qualifications offer alternatives to more traditional A level courses, they are valued and
well regarded by both employers and higher education. They provide a practical, real-world
approach to learning without sacrificing any of the essential subject theory. Assessment on
BTEC programmes is largely through coursework, taking away the pressure of examinations
and allowing students to gauge their own performance on a continuing basis, as they might
in a real workplace

At Peter Symonds you will find that our We offer BTEC programmes in three areas:
BTEC courses are: Business
Challenging and rewarding with a strong practical focus
IT
Well taught by professional practitioners with opportunities
Sport
for work placements
Flexible and complementary to other level 3 courses as part
of a mixed learning programme
Highly successful, with 75% of students achieving
Distinction grades or better (2013)

Subject Equivalent to 1 AS Equivalent to 1 A level Equivalent to 2 Equivalent to 3 A

level A levels levels
Business BTEC Certificate BTEC Subsidiary Diploma BTEC Diploma
IT BTEC Certificate BTEC Subsidiary Diploma BTEC Diploma
Sport BTEC Diploma BTEC Extended Diploma

BTEC courses can be taken instead of or alongside AS and A level qualifications and attract UCAS tariff points for university
entrance in a similar way. The grading system is different, with BTECs being graded Pass, Merit, Distinction, Distinction* rather
than A* - E (see table below).

BTEC Grading and A level equivalence

UCAS Tariff Points

A level A* - 140 points A 120 points C 80 points E 40 points
BTEC Distinction* 140 points Distinction 120 points Merit 80 points Pass - 40 points

Students following a BTEC Extended Diploma course will receive 3 grades, so could achieve a maximum of 420 UCAS points.
Those doing a BTEC Diploma will receive 2 grades with a maximum of 280 UCAS points from their BTEC.

76
 BTEC Courses

BTEC National Business

(Certificate, Subsidiary Diploma and Diploma)

EdExcel

What will I be studying? Year 2

The National Diploma, Subsidiary and Certificate in Business Diploma students will study a further six units, students
Level 3 are advanced level vocational courses, involving the studying the Subsidiary will study a further three units.
theoretical and practical study of business related topics. Year 2 is likely to include units such as: Recruitment and
The BTEC Level 3 suite of Business qualifications is designed Selection, Development Planning for a Career, Business Ethics
to give students a thorough knowledge of the business world, and Aspects of Contract Law. Specialist units
together with vital skills demanded by all major employers. may change.
Depending on which qualification is chosen, the units will be
selected from 4 core units and 8 specialist units, taught over
What sort of work will I be doing?
a one or two year period. A wide variety of teaching and learning styles will be
utilised, including group work, presentations and individual
For the Diploma, Subsidiary and Certificate, the units chosen
assignments. You may research topics and present results
will be selected from the following:
in a variety of ways applying your research and knowledge
to specific work-related contexts and case studies. Where
Year 1
appropriate, group interaction will play a part; you can work
All students will study at least three core units: collaboratively on elements of your studies, just as you would
Unit 1: The Business Environment involves the fundamental in the workplace. Learning will be encouraged in a practical
knowledge of a range of businesses and the factors that shape way and apply the underpinning theories, research and
the nature of the organisation. analysis to bring a depth of understanding to your work.
Unit 2: Business Resources covers knowledge of the range
of human, physical, technological and financial resources
How will I be assessed?
required in an organisation. There are no examinations. You are rewarded along the
way for consistent hard work, without the added pressure
Unit 3: Introduction to Marketing considers how marketing,
of exams at the end. The course is totally assessed through
research and planning are used by the organisation.
a range of coursework assignments and practical exercises.
Unit 4: Business Communication, shows you that the These will involve a range of tasks allowing you to
collection of management, business information and demonstrate your knowledge and understanding of the topics.
communication is crucial for the future prosperity of the
organisation. Progression
Recognised by both higher education establishments and
Specialist Units
industry each of the courses are suitable for those who
Diploma students will additionally study two specialist
have a keen interest in following a career in the wide field of
units in year 1.
Business and who wish to go directly into employment after
completing the award as well as those who wish to embark on
Specialist Units
a degree at university.
Unit 5: Business Accounting provides an understanding
of business accounting and the associated processes in
Entry Requirements.
managing a business.
Standard entry requirements.
Unit 6: Starting a Small Business will enable you to
understand the skills needed to set up and run a small
business and you will have the opportunity to prepare a
detailed business plan.

77
 BTEC National IT
(Certificate, Subsidiary Diploma and Diploma)

EdExcel

What will I be studying? How will I be assessed?

The BTEC National is an advanced level vocational IT There will be opportunities for you to deliver assignment
course which involves the theoretical and practical study of work in diverse ways. Assignments offer the opportunity for
both computer and IT related topics. This exciting course you to write reports, digital graphics and multimedia, develop
includes a wide range of units that will provide an excellent webpages, build software applications, record evidence
foundation for students wishing to either progress towards through video or podcast, and via witness and observation
a course in higher education, apprenticeships or enter the statements. Assignments are set using real life scenarios set in
world of work in the IT sector. The course content is equally relevant vocational context to enhance working knowledge.
suited to both male and female students due to its diverse
programme of study. A BTEC is a flexible qualification, Where will it take me?
made up of a number of units. This qualification can be The BTEC Nationals are recognised by both higher education
taken alongside more traditional qualifications to suit your establishments and industry. The content of the course
interests and aspirations. You can enjoy studying a range is a combination of the AS/A2 ICT, Computing and Applied
of interesting topics and learn a range of different software ICT courses.
skills including the Adobe Software Suite CS6 as well as
Students can progress to the following: apprenticeships,
Programming languages. All BTEC National courses include
higher education, foundation degrees, and honours
compulsory units on Computer Systems which includes PC
degrees in related subjects.
build and software installation. Other units include Software
Development and Design, Event Driven Programming,
Entry Requirements.
Website Development and Digital graphics. Students also
study Information Systems and Systems Analysis and Design. Standard entry requirements.
The Nationals are two-year courses, students are able to
study AS/A2 subjects alongside or other BTEC courses.
William Prentice
What sort of work will I be doing? John Hanson Community School
The BTEC Nationals offer active learning in a vocational
context and build confidence, skills and motivation in students
through hands on practical lessons. You will combine subject
theory with a real-world approach to the topics studied
without sacrificing any of the essential subject concepts. You
will study in bespoke classrooms equipped with the relevant
hardware and current industry standard programming,
website development and digital graphics software.
Assessment opportunities occur in the classroom through
observation and you will also have the opportunity to attend
workshops where you are supported by subject specialists.
Workshops allow you to develop and enhance practical skills
in programming, website development and digital graphics Subjects: BTEC Certificate ICT, Computing, Psychology
along with providing support for any written assignment and Use of Maths.
Activities: Gym (Drop In), World Cinema.
evidence. You will develop skills in project management where
the development of user requirements, design strategies, The working environment that Symonds offers
is great for anyone looking to get the best results
and final products become the evidence on which you are
possible. You receive excellent support from teachers
assessed. Practical homework tasks support the learning of
and support staff and the wide range of courses suit
new skills and provide practice for the creation of websites,
anyones needs.
digital graphics techniques and programming languages.

78
 BTEC Courses

BTEC National Sport

(Diploma and Extended Diploma) (Performance and Excellence)

EdExcel

What will I be studying? Child Protection in Sport. There will also be an opportunity
to complete sport specific leaders awards with related
Both courses consist of studying ten core units: National Governing Bodies. These will provide excellent
Principles of Anatomy and Physiology in Sport additional qualifications for prospective employment
and unit criteria will be integrated within them. The
The Physiology of Fitness
course may also involve field trips, where certain units
Assessing Risk in Sport
will be studied. At the end of year one, you will complete
Fitness Training and Programming a one week, sport industry-related work experience
Fitness Testing for Sport and Exercise placement, aimed at your personal career development.
Sports Nutrition
How will I be assessed?
Psychology for Sports Performance
Due to the diverse nature of the course, a wide variety
Technical and Tactical Skills in Sport
of teaching and learning styles will be utilised by the
The Athletes Lifestyle. Both courses will also study units in team, including group work, presentations and individual
Practical Team Sports, Sports Coaching, Sports Injuries and assignments. Many units will involve practical work, and
Sport and Exercise Massage. assessment will be carried out on an individual and group
On the Extended Diploma, students will also study; Analysis basis, so students will be expected to fully participate.
of Sports Performance, Talent ID and Development in Sport,
Rules, Regulations and Officiating in Sport, Current Issues Where will it take me?
in Sport, Organising Sports Events and Sport as a Business. This course would be most suitable for students who have
a keen interest in sport, who wish to study sport further
What sort of work will I be doing? into higher education or alternatively enter employment in
The course is structured to have 5 lessons per unit, per week, to the sporting industry. Previous students have pursued
with additional support sessions (Course Tutorial). Three units various sport related degrees (at universities including Bath,
will be assessed at any one time, and each typically has three Loughborough and Birmingham), as well as employment
assignments, where students are supported extensively, being in personal training, massage therapy or coaching.
guided through the assignments and given tips on information
to include. The whole course is supported by an excellent Entry Requirements.
intranet site, containing all of the information students need, Standard entry requirements.
as well as additional support sessions during study periods.
Throughout the two years, course tutorial sessions will
form part of the timetable. Students will meet with their
course tutor weekly, discussing their current progress,
gaining feedback on their assignments and receiving
support and guidance in their career aspirations. Student
progress is also tracked through course tutorial, so students
are aware of what grades they have achieved, and what
they need to attain to achieve their desired grade. This all
forms a vital part of the student success on the course.
You will have the opportunity to undertake additional
courses of: CSLA, HSLA, Extended Project, First Aid and

79
 Your Study Options - Level 2
A study programme will be designed to suit your individual needs in order to help you gain
further qualifications to aid your progression to Advanced Level courses (either A levels or
Level 3 vocational courses) or employment. Please come to our Open Evenings, use our website
and speak to your careers advisers at school to gather as much information as you can about
the different types of courses and the different subjects available. We will discuss your course
choices with you at your interview.

All Level 2 courses are taught using a variety of teaching

methods. Work is carried out both through individual
exercises, case studies and group activities. The main
emphasis during the courses is to develop your independent
learning skills and carrying out your own research.
In addition to classroom teaching and visits, a one week work
experience placement will be an integral part of the course.
This will enable you to develop skills and knowledge in a
vocational setting and familiarise you with the world of work.
Trips and speakers are arranged to enhance your learning
and to help you gather vocationally related material. All the
courses will develop your presentation and IT skills.

L2 Subjects
We are offering a range of Level 2 subjects for you to choose
from to give you a choice of subjects and experiences You
will be expected to study two or three of these in addition to
resitting Maths and/or English GCSEs.

Maths and English

Entry Requirements.
You will also have the opportunity to study for and resit
At least two D grades at GCSE.
GCSEs in English and/or Maths (as appropriate) alongside the
other L2 qualifications outlined above.

Preparation for Level 3 courses

If you are intending to continue to Level 3 courses at Peter
Symonds, you will be expected to attend a course late in the
summer term to help prepare you for Advanced Level study.

80
 Level 2 (Vocational) Courses

Typical Level 2 programmes

Examples Courses Other Other

timetables Opportunities
commitments
Student 1 Business ICT Leisure English GCSE + Activity Work Experience
and Tourism + Tutorial Preparation for
Student 2 ICT Media Business Maths GCSE Level 3
+ Workshops
Student 3 Media Leisure Maths GCSE English GCSE
and Tourism

Business Studies to work in a range of media including print, web, television

and film. The course has been developed in partnership
This GCSE course is designed to deepen students'
with practising tutors/teachers, as well as industry
understanding of the way in which businesses operate
specialists and leading employers in the media industries.
in a dynamic, changing and competitive environment.
This understanding is rooted in current business The course consists of four units:
theory and practice and reflects the integrated nature Media Products and Audiences
of organisations and their decision-making processes.
Film and TV Media Products
Assessment is by exam and a controlled assessment.
Audio-visual Advertising
Candidates who have followed this specification will have
Print Media Production
the necessary knowledge, understanding and skills needed to
progress either to the more demanding AS Business Studies, All learning takes place within a dedicated PC editing/DTP
or BTEC National Business, or to a range of related subjects suite where a media instructor/technician is on hand to offer
at AS level. extra support. Creative media teachers and practitioners
will deliver this course with an emphasis on facilitating
Leisure and Tourism independent learning skills and industry based scenarios.
This GCSE course is designed to encourage you to
actively engage in the study of leisure and tourism and Information and Communication
to understand the nature of the leisure and tourism Technology
industry. You will develop an understanding of the This Cambridge Technical qualification in ICT will equip
contribution that leisure and tourism makes to society. learners with sound ICT skills for everyday use and provide
Assessment is by exam and a controlled assessment. opportunities to develop in context those desirable,
transferable skills such as planning, research and analysis,
Candidates who have followed this specification will have
working with others or communicating technical concepts
the necessary knowledge, understanding and skills needed
effectively. Teaching is in dedicated IT class rooms.
to progress to a range of subjects at AS level.
The course consists of four units:
Media Understanding computer systems
This Cambridge Technical qualification in Media offers an Using ICT to create business solutions
understanding of media industries by empowering you
Introduction to computer programming
to work with media products, production processes and
technologies. This leads to practical and creative skills that Understanding technology an individual research project.
are transferable to the workplace or to production related
HE courses. Unit choices provide you with opportunities

81
 Vocational Courses
Available at our Adult and Higher Education Division (AHED)

We offer a small number of vocational courses at our The Campus Address

Stoney Lane site in Weeke which are open to 16-19 year old
students. These include Beauty Specialists, Hairdressing, Adult & Higher Education Division
Complementary Therapy and Early Years Educator. Stoney Lane
These courses are typically arranged over a two and a half day Weeke
week, with the anticipation that a student partakes in work Winchester
experience for a further day or more per week. SO22 6DR
The courses are run on a separate site in Stoney Lane,
Weeke, Winchester . 01962 886166
There are a mixture of students on this site, some studying ahed@psc.ac.uk
the vocational courses detailed, others are studying access to
higher education courses and degree programmes so there is
a different atmosphere to the Sixth Form site.
How to apply:
We hold separate open events and you are very welcome Deadline for applications is
to join us for one or more of these events: Friday 11 September 2015.
Please visit our website and submit an online application form
Open Events at AHED or contact reception to have a hard copy application posted to
Thursday 4 September 2014 6.00 - 9.00 P.M. you. Once complete please return to:
Saturday 6 September 2014 11.00 A.M. 1.00 P.M. Admissions
Tuesday 9 September 2014 2.00 5.00 P.M. Peter Symonds College
Adult and Higher Education
Wednesday 10 September 2014 2.00 6.30 P.M.
FREEPOST (SCE12783)
Winchester
SO22 6BR

82
 Level 2 (Vocational) Courses

Beauty Specialist
Diploma Level 2 Vocation Training Charitable Trust (VTCT)

What will I be studying? Where will it take me?

This qualification has been specifically designed to develop Completion of the Level 2 Diploma includes the necessary
your practical skills in all Level 2 treatments: facials and skills to be employed as a beauty therapist in a salon. In year
skincare, providing eyelash and brow treatments, removing 2 students may wish to progress to a variety of courses at
hair using waxing techniques, applying make-up, manicure Level 3 including the Diploma in Complementary Therapies,
and pedicure. You will also study; instruction on make-up Diploma in Beauty Therapy Studies, and many other
application, removing hair using alternatives to wax such qualifications offered such as Reflexology, Aromatherapy, Nail
as threading or sugaring, client care and communication. Technology, Infant And Child Massage, Sport Massage. All of
Attendance is two and half days a week over one year with these courses enhance your employability and will help you
additional attendance 3-4 times a year in workshops. develop your career. Having completed year 2 you may wish to
continue to study the HND in Hair and Beauty Management.
This qualification is approved and supported by
the Hairdressing and Beauty Industry Authority Entry Requirements.
(HABIA), the standard setting body for hair,
Entry requirements are 5 GCSEs at grade C or above.
beauty, nails and spa qualifications.

What sort of work will I be doing? Shelley Hallett

You will do both practical work in a salon and theory work Henry Beaufort School
with a set amount of home study. Following demonstrations
by your tutors you will practice your skills on each other in
the class and then graduate onto clients when we think you
are ready. Studying Beauty Therapy requires a considerable
amount of theory work to gain the underpinning knowledge
essential for your practical skills, you will therefore spend time
learning the anatomy of the skin, as well as possible disorders
and diseases and this will require additional home study.
All our courses have a health and safety component
and risk assessment, along with the related anatomy
so that effects of the treatment on the bodily systems
are understood and you can therefore offer a safe
treatment. You will have the commercial skills to Studies: L3 Diploma Beauty Therapy
gain employment by the end of the course. "I have thoroughly enjoyed my two years of study at
the College, gaining both knowledge and experience,
To further enhance your skills you will have the
as well as new friends. Through the persistence,
opportunity to gain commercial certificates in subjects
guidance and help of my tutors, I have secured a job
such as gel varnishing, skin tanning and threading.
in the beauty industry. I would highly recommend
this course."
How will I be assessed?
You will be assessed in the classroom which becomes the
salon under realistic working conditions, just as if you were in
a real salon. The practical and written work is also internally
verified by other members of staff as a quality check and then
an External Verifier from the Awarding Body (VTCT) comes
in twice per year to check our systems and procedures. There
are continual practical assessments, written assessment
questions, internal and external written exams, case studies,
and a portfolio of evidence for practical treatment.

83
 Complementary Therapy
Level 3 Diploma - Vocation Training Charitable Trust (VTCT)

What will I be studying? How will I be assessed?

This qualification will develop your knowledge and You will be assessed in the classroom which becomes the
understanding of the principles and practice and salon under realistic working conditions, just as if you were in
business practice for complementary therapies. a real salon. The practical and written work is also internally
Furthermore, you will learn about anatomy, physiology verified by other members of staff as a quality check and then
and pathology for complementary therapies. an External Verifier from the Awarding Body (VTCT) comes
You will also develop your understanding and practical skills in twice per year to check our systems and procedures. There
to provide body massage, aromatherapy and reflexology. are continual practical assessments, written assessment
You may also choose to complete an additional unit questions, internal and external written exams, case studies,
which will develop your knowledge and understanding and a portfolio of evidence for practical treatment.
of healthy eating and wellbeing for the complementary
therapy client. The units included in the qualification are:
Where will it take me?
Completion of the Level 3 diploma prepares you for a
Principles and practice of complementary therapies
career as a complementary therapist, whether it be as
Business practice for complementary therapies an aromatherapist, reflexologist or massage therapist/
Knowledge of anatomy, physiology and practitioner. This is a practitioner level qualification.
pathology for complementary therapies The qualification also provides progression to specialist
Provide body massage for complementary therapies complementary therapy qualifications at Level 4.
Provide aromatherapy for complementary therapies
Entry Requirements.
Provide reflexology for complementary therapies
Standard entry requirements are 3 5 GCSEs at grade
Healthy eating and wellbeing for the
C or above with English and Maths preferred.
complementary therapy client
Attendance is two and half days a week over one year with
additional attendance 3-4 times a year in workshops.

What sort of work will I be doing?

You will do both practical work in a salon and theory work
with a set amount of home study. Following demonstrations
by your tutors you will practise your skills on each other
in the class and then graduate onto clients when we think
you are ready. Studying complementary therapies requires a
considerable amount of theory work to gain the underpinning
knowledge essential for your practical skills, you will
therefore spend time learning the anatomy physiology and
pathology and this will require additional home study.
All our courses have a health and safety component and risk
assessment, along with the related anatomy so that effects
of the treatment on the bodily systems are understood and
you can therefore offer a safe treatment. You will have the
commercial skills to gain employment by the end
of the course.

84
 Level 3 (Vocational) Courses

Early Years Educator

Level 3 Diploma - CACHE

What will I be studying? What sort of work will I be doing?

The Early Years is designed for students wanting to work To complete the Early Years Educator you will need to
with children aged 0-5 years and it will provide you with attend classes two days a week, 9.30-3.30pm during term
information about children up to the age of 7 years. It is a time where you will cover a range of both theory and
two year course and you will be required to attend college practical activities. Alongside this you will be expected
two days a week and a placement for an additional two to attend a placement for two days a week in a variety
days a week. of settings. Help and guidance will be given to help you
find a suitable placements in a selection of environments
The course is set out in four themes: which will include different age ranges between 0-5
Theme 1: Health and well-being: years. These will include pre-schools, nurseries, child
This will include nutrition, exercise, physical care minders and schools. You will need to complete a total
routines and supporting children who are unwell. of 730 placement hours over the two year programme.
Theme 2: Legislation, frameworks and professional practice: Alongside your placement, the homework set in class
This theme will include an introduction to the will link to your work placements. You will be required
role of the early years practitioner, safeguarding, to carry out practical activities in your setting that relate
health and safety and equality and diversity. to the theory you have learnt in your classes. These
Theme 3: Play development and learning for school: activities will then be assessed by a qualified assessor.
Theme three will include, Play values, planning activities, You will be provided with supplementary information
theorists, play environments, preparing children for and activities via our online learning environment.
school, promoting physical development, supporting
additional needs, Observation techniques.
How will I be assessed?
In the workplace you will be assessed by an experienced,
Theme 4: Professional development:
qualified assessor who will observe your practice in
Lastly, theme four will include engaging
the work place. Within the class room you will be
in professional development.
assessed by the completion of a longitudinal study and
The Early Years Educator is an essential qualification if you 3 pieces of external assessment which will include a
wish to become an early years professional as it the ONLY short exam at the end at the end of the four themes.
qualification which provides you with a licence to practice.
Where will it take me?
Progression from the Early Years Educator will be into paid
employment as a licenced practitioner with children aged 0- 5
years, this will enable you to work in a variety of childcare
settings. Students who wish to gain a university qualification
can complete the foundation degree in Early Years and
then top up to full BA honours at the College or a university
if they wish.

Entry Requirements.
Standard entry requirements are 4 GCSEs at grade C or above.
Students who do not have a grade C in English or Maths will
be expected to achieve them as part of their programme.

85
 Hairdressing
Level 2 Vocation Training Charitable Trust (VTCT)

What will I be studying? How will I be assessed?

This qualification has been specifically designed to develop You will be assessed in the classroom which becomes the
your practical skills in the creative art of cutting or dressing salon under realistic working conditions, just as if you were in
womens hair, how to provide effective shampooing and a real salon. The practical and written work is also internally
conditioning services, the artistic skill of colouring and verified by other members of staff as a quality check and then
lightening hair and how to provide a good consultation an External Verifier from the Awarding Body (VTCT) comes
service for your clients. To further enhance your hairdressing in twice per year to check our systems and procedures. There
skills you will study the following: effective scalp massage are continual practical assessments, written assessment
services, how to create a hair and beauty image, colouring hair questions, internal and external written exams, case studies,
using semi and temporary colour, styling blow drying, setting and a portfolio of evidence for your practical treatments.
and finish hair, promoting products and services to clients and
the opportunity of working on a salon reception. Where will it take me?
Attendance is two and half days a week over one year as well Completion of the Hairdressing Level 2 Diploma includes
as a Friday workshop 3-4 times during the academic year. the necessary skills to be employed in a salon: shampooing
with good customer service, blow drying, cutting, colouring
What sort of work will I be doing? and styling. In year 2 students may wish to progress to the
You will do both practical work in a salon and theory work Hairdressing Level 3 Diploma which includes more advanced
with a set amount of home study. Following demonstrations techniques of hairdressing, such as corrective work, as well as
by your tutors you will practice your skills on each other in gents hair cutting. Having completed year 2 you may wish to
the class and then graduate onto clients when we think you continue to study the HND in Hair and Beauty Management.
are ready. Hairdressing requires a considerable amount of
theory work to gain the underpinning knowledge essential
Entry Requirements.
for your practical skills. You will learn the anatomy of the hair Standard entry requirements are 3 5 GCSEs at grade C or
and skin, the physiology of hair growth and possible disorders above with English and Maths preferred. Entry for mature
and diseases .You will also learn about the hair follicle and students may vary.
the hair growth cycle, so that when you come to cutting
skills the supporting understanding that will help you make
the correct choice of angle and suitable style, is in place. All
our courses have a health and safety component and risk
assessment, along with the related anatomy so that effects
of the treatment on the bodily systems are understood and
you can therefore offer a safe treatment. In addition students
will attend a range of extra-curricular events such as trips/
events with LOreal, Wella UK and trips to attend hairdressing
industry events such as the Alternative Hair Show and
Salon International.
You will have the commercial skills to gain employment by
the end of the course.

86
Boarding

Outstanding ...says Ofsted We can only offer boarding places to students who
are able to attend an interview, although attending
In March 2013, Ofsted inspected our Boarding Houses
an interview does not guarantee a place.
and again graded us as Outstanding. Inspectors noted
that whilst students thoroughly enjoy the residential Fees for 2014/15 are 11,700 per year for School House
experience and derive great benefit both educationally and 12,570 per year for Falkland Lodge. Fees for 2015/16
and in their personal and social development while being will be available in due course. A 500 deposit (non-
there, they also feel extremely well supported in making refundable) will be required to secure a boarding place.
choices and preparing for their future, with dedicated
guidance provided via a careers management programme. 01962 857555 (daytime only)
Please read the full report at www.psc.ac.uk/inspection.
We have two co-educational boarding houses Falkland 01962 857501
Lodge and School House with places for around 80
boarders in total. Please note that special conditions
admissions@psc.ac.uk
apply for the allocation of our limited number of boarding
places, which can be found on our website at:
Rosie Bua-In
www.psc.ac.uk/admissions/boarding Down High Grammar School
Boarding applications can be made online
from 1 September and will close on 31 October.
We will be arranging interviews to coincide with the Colleges
Open Evenings on Wednesday 15 and Thursday 16 October,
so we encourage you to keep these dates available. You will
have a College admissions interview to discuss your course
choices and a boarding interview, both of which will enable
you to see if boarding and studying at Peter Symonds is
for you. You will also have a tour of the boarding houses.
During the Open Evening you will have the opportunity
Subjects: Human Biology, Maths, Media Studies
to talk to our teachers and students, see the whole and Psychology.
campus and find out about other aspects of the Activities: Pottery, Psychological Film Club and Yoga.
College. It will certainly give you a good appreciation " I have met all kinds of people and studying here is interesting
of what to expect from sixth form life. and fun. Teachers here are different from secondary school in
a good way, more like a friend, which makes learning
However, we appreciate that not all students will be able more enjoyable.
to attend these dates so a further two interview dates are
planned: Monday 17th November and Friday 5th December,
but these do not coincide with any Open Evenings.

87
 Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the College day? Can I get any help to cover the
We start at 8.30am and end at 4.35pm. Lunch is from costs of transport?
1.00pm until 1.50pm (although some students may We have negotiated concessionary rates with some
have lessons or workshops during this time). The local transport providers. For students in extreme
College may alter these timings for operational reasons. hardship, Student Services may be able to offer some
Students will have study periods during each day. financial support towards the cost of your travel. You
can obtain further details from Student Services.
Do I need to wear uniform?
Whilst there is no uniform, we do have a dress code at Can I get free meals at College?
College. Clothes need to be appropriate to the working Free meals are now available for students studying
environment; offensive logos on T shirts are not acceptable; in colleges. More information about eligibility
faces must not be covered and students should not wear can be obtained from Student Services.
clothing that restricts the ability of others to identify
them whilst on site or in examinations e.g. hoods or crash Can I park at College?
helmets. Smart casual wear is the accepted norm. No. There is no student parking on the College site, unless you
have a disability or you have a health problem which prevents
Can I take a holiday in term time? you from using public transport. Please note also that the
No. The College expects students to attend all their timetabled streets closest to the College are for residents parking only.
commitments fully. All our research shows a clear link
between attendance and A level grades, with students Can I change my subject choices after
maintaining over 95% attendance attaining a whole grade my interview?
higher than their peers with the same GCSE profile, but with Usually we will be able to change your subjects; please
a lower attendance rate. We take attendance very seriously email or phone us to discuss your choices. However,
and so holidays are not permitted during term time. sometimes subjects become full and we are unable to
make the change that you want. Our advice is that you
Do I need to pay any fees? give serious consideration to your subjects at the Open
There are no tuition fees for most 1619 year old students. Evening so that you are as sure as you can be about
We do, however, ask for a voluntary contribution to our them before your interview.
College Fund. This is 40 for students enrolling on a 2
year course and 20 for a 1 year course. This is used to Can I move to Peter Symonds for my
benefit students during their time at the College. In the A2 year?
past we have bought college minibuses, CCTV and the
This is not normally possible. We will consider each
site licence for the internet. Under some circumstances,
application on an individual basis and only accept
students are asked to pay for examination entry fees.
students onto an A2 programme in very exceptional
circumstances. Entry will only be possible if there is room
Can I get any financial help while in classes and will be subject to satisfactory references
Im at College? from your previous school/college. Please note that A2
We receive government money each year to help students courses will begin in mid-June, when you will be expected
from low income families. The Guaranteed Bursary is available to start College if you are accepted.
to Looked After Children, Care Leavers, students who live
independently and claim Income Support, and students I am currently living overseas - can I apply?
who are parents and claim Income Support. We also have a It is unusual for the College to offer day places to
fund which can offer help with the costs of books and other students who live abroad. For information on boarding,
resources needed for your course. Please contact Student please refer to page 87 of the prospectus or go to our
Services for more information as the financial support website www.psc.ac.uk/admissions/boarding.
available and eligibility criteria may change each year.

88
Public Transport Links
Travelling to College by Train
The College has a discount rail travel scheme, details of which are available from Student Services on 01962857457 or
email student.services@psc.ac.uk.

Whitchurch
Andover Overton
Basingstoke
Salisbury
Dean Micheldever
Mottisfont & Dunbridge Winchester

Romsey Chandlers
Ford
Eastleigh
Redbridge Hedge End
Botley
Totton
Bitterne Sholing Hamble
Fareham
Ashurst Millbrook
Woolston Netley Bursledon Swanwick
St
Southampton Denys

Travelling to College by Bus

86 Stagecoach (Whitechurch/Basingstoke) 69 Stagecoach (Fareham) 66 Stagecoach (Romsey)

As a student of Peter Symonds

64 Stagecoach College you can take advantage
(Alton) ofBlueline
E1 Solent special season
(Bluestar) ticket prices which77/68
(Eastleigh) giveStagecoach
significant saving over
(Andover)

the normal cost of travel to college.

67 Xela (Peterseld) B1 Solent Blueline (Bluestar) (Southampton)

All PS buses are run by Stagecoach.

Newbury Tesco

Kingsclere
Penwood

PS12
Charlton PS4
Saxon Fields

Whitchurch Basingstoke (86)

Andover
Kempshot PS7
Floral Way
PS6
PS5 Anna Valley (77) Oakley
HatchWarren
Over Wallop
Salisbury PS3
Stockbridge Alton (64)
Barton Stacey
(68) Four Marks
Kings Somborne
South Wonston
West Wellow Alresford
Romsey (66)
Petersfield
Whitemap Hiltingbury (Xela)
Colden Common
North Baddesley Valley Park Fair Oak (only 69)
PS2 Lower Upham
PS1 Bishops Waltham
Chandlers Ford Eastleigh (E1) Swanmore PS9
Waltham Chase
Hedge End
Locks Heath Fareham (69)
Knowle
Bellemoor Chilworth Whiteley
Warsash PS8
Shirley Parkgate
Rownhams PS10
Nursling
PS11

Southampton (Bluestar 1)

86 Stagecoach (Whitechurch/Basingstoke) 69 Stagecoach (Fareham) 66 Stagecoach (Romsey)

64 Stagecoach (Alton) E1 Solent Blueline (Bluestar) (Eastleigh) 77/68 Stagecoach (Andover)

67 Xela (Peterseld) B1 Solent Blueline (Bluestar) (Southampton)

All PS buses are run by Stagecoach.

Newbury Tesco 89
 Course Directory 2015

Level 3 (Advanced) Courses

Subject Level Page Subject Level Page
Art Three Dimensional AS/A2 22 Performance Studies AS/A2 66
Design (Sculpture) Philosophy AS/A2 67
Art - Fine Art AS/A2 24 Physical Education AS/A2 68
Art - Photography AS/A2 25 Physics AS/A2 70
Art - Textiles AS/A2 27 Product Design AS/A2 71
Biology AS/A2 28 Psychology AS/A2 72
Business AS/A2 30 Religious Studies AS/A2 73
Chemistry AS/A2 31 Sociology AS/A2 74
CILEx Accredited 32 Spanish AS/A2 75
Course
Classical Civilisation AS/A2 33
Communication and Culture AS/A2 34 Level 3 BTEC National Courses
Computer Science AS/A2 35
Business 77
Dance AS/A2 36
IT 78
Drama and Theatre Studies AS/A2 37
Sport 79
Economics AS/A2 38
English Language AS/A2 39 These vocational courses are equivalent to one, two or three
English Language and Literature AS/A2 40 A levels.
English Literature AS/A2 41
Environmental Studies AS/A2 42 Level 2 Courses
Film Studies AS/A2 44
Business Studies GCSE 81
French AS/A2 45
ICT Cambridge 81
Geography AS/A2 46 Technical
German AS/A2 47 Leisure and Tourism GCSE 81
Government and Politics AS/A2 48 Media Cambridge 81
Graphic Communication AS/A2 49 Technical
Health and Social Care AS/A2 50/51
History AS/A2 52 Vocational Courses Weeke
Italian ab initio AS/A2 54 AHED Campus
Italian AS/A2 55
Latin AS/A2 56 Beauty Specialist 83
Law AS/A2 57 Complementary Therapy 84
Mathematics AS/A2 58 Early Years Educator 85
Mathematics (Further) AS/A2 59 Hairdressing 86
Use of Maths AS/A2 60
Media Studies AS/A2 61
Music AS/A2 62
Music (HSMC) AS/A2 63
Music Technology AS/A2 64

90
Campus Map

Local Area Map

All information included in this prospectus is correct at time of printing (27 June 2014), but is subject to change.

91
92
Contents
Welcome 3 Entry Requirements 20

Why Choose Peter Symonds? 3 Level 3 Courses (Advanced) 22

Opportunities to be stretched 4 BTEC Courses 76

and challenged
Your Study Options - Level 2 80
Extended Project Qualification 5
Vocational Courses 82
How to Apply 6
Boarding 87
Application Diary 7
Frequently Asked Questions 88
College Life 8
Public Transport Links 89
Supporting You...Your Studies 11
and Future Plans Course Directory 90

Supporting You... Your Life at College 12 Campus and Local Area Maps 91

Enrichment - Activities at the College 14

Sport 16

Your Study Options Level 3 18

 Peter Symonds College

Peter Symonds College

Prospectus 2015

Prospectus 2015

Peter Symonds College

01962 857555
admissions@psc.ac.uk
www.psc.ac.uk
Peter Symonds College, Owens Road, Winchester, Hampshire, SO22 6RX