Courses
Applied Science
Name of Course |
Applied Science |
Exam Board |
Edexcel |
Qualification type |
BTEC |
Entry requirements
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A Grade 5-5 or above in GCSE Combined Science or two Grade 5s or above from Separate Science qualifications. |
About the course
|
The BTEC applied science runs over two years and is assessed as 50% coursework and 50% exam. You will develop skills including how to plan investigations, collecting, analysing, and presenting data and communicating results which support some of the skills students need to progress to higher education, employment, self-employment, or training. You will study topics ranging from cells, atomic structure and bonding to waves and communications. |
Next steps
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Through both the coursework and examined modules you will develop the transferable higher order skills that are valued by higher education providers and employers. Career opportunities include nursing, midwifery, forensic science, radiography, radiotherapy and animal science. |
Contact |
Biology
Name of Course |
Biology |
Exam Board |
AQA |
Qualification type |
A Level |
Entry requirements
|
A Grade 6 or above in GCSE Biology or a Grade 6-6 or above if you have studied GCSE Combined Science. A minimum of a Grade 5 in GCSE Maths. |
About the course
|
A-level Biology builds upon the knowledge learnt at GCSE, teaching you the biochemistry of processes such as photosynthesis and protein synthesis, whilst also covering several aspects of biology such as ecology and genetics. In addition to the content, you will learn invaluable practical and analytical skills through the completion of complete 12 assessed practicals and earn a separate practical endorsement qualification as a result. |
Next steps
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An A-level in Biology opens many doors - not only is it a necessary A-level for the study of medicine, dentistry, or veterinary science, it is highly regarded thanks to the analytical nature of the subject. Options for further study include genetics, biochemistry, immunology, pharmacology, environmental sciences, food science, sports science and many more. |
Contact |
Business Studies
Name of Course |
Business Studies |
Exam Board |
Edexcel |
Qualification type |
A Level |
Entry requirements
|
A minimum of 5 GCSEs of Grade 5 or above. |
About the course
|
Whether you decide to work for yourself, work for a large multinational corporation with a pathway of promotions and opportunities, or stay local and work for a small organisation, you will be working in the world of business in your future. From finance to leadership, HR to product development and branding, A Level Business has it all! During this two-year course you will learn the core business concepts from a wide variety of topic areas and apply them to real business contexts. Beginning with entrepreneurial skills and starting a small business then working towards understanding globalisation and strategic decision-making.
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Next steps
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There is a wide variety of business-related courses on offer at colleges and universities, including Business, Business Management, Leadership, Human Resources, Accounting and Finance, Economics, Marketing and Business Law. There is also a range of higher-level apprenticeships with a range of organisations, including those in Hospitality, Events Management, Finance, Sales and Business Administration. As Business includes a diverse range of content and is applied to a variety of different business types, the skills developed will prepare students for any workplace and provide a great foundation for the future. |
Contact |
Chemistry
Name of Course |
Chemistry |
Exam Board |
AQA |
Qualification type |
A Level |
Entry requirements
|
A Grade 6 or above in GCSE Chemistry or a Grade 6-6 or above if you have studied GCSE Combined Science. A minimum of a Grade 5 in GCSE Maths. |
About the course
|
A Level Chemistry is designed to build on the knowledge that you gained at GCSE. The course is designed to allow you to develop key skills such as problem-solving, numeracy and application to real-life contexts. Topics include Atomic Structure, Kinetics, Equilibria, Transition Metals, Biochemistry, Aromatics & Organic synthesis. You will also complete 12 assessed practicals and earn a separate practical endorsement qualification as a result. |
Next steps
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Chemistry is an extremely well sought-after and highly regarded A-level which can open more doors than you might expect. Students who study A Level Chemistry may go on to study a range of courses such as Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Healthcare, Law, Environmental Science, Veterinary Science, Forensics, Pharmacy and many more. Chemistry is an essential A Level if you wish to study Medicine, Veterinary Science, Dentistry or Forensic Sciences. |
Contact |
Computer Science
Name of Course |
Computer Science |
Exam Board |
OCR |
Qualification type |
A-Level |
Entry requirements
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A minimum of 5 GCSEs of Grade 5 or above.
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About the course
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A Level Computer Science qualification helps students understand the core academic principles of computer science. Classroom learning is transferred into creating real-world systems through the creation of an independent programming project. Our A Level will develop your technical understanding and ability to analyse and solve problems using computational thinking. |
Next steps
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Universities and employers value Computer Science at A level as it requires the development and implementation of analytical thinking and problem-solving skills that are desirable by many industries. This course also lays an appropriate foundation for further study of Computer Science, Engineering, Physics or related subjects in higher education. Computers are increasingly being used to solve problems in the sciences, engineering, health care, business and other areas but finding a solution requires both computer science expertise and knowledge of the particular application domain. Thus, computer scientists often become proficient in other subjects. |
Contact |
Criminology
Name of Course |
Criminology |
Exam Board |
WJEC |
Qualification type |
Level 3 Diploma |
Entry requirements
|
A minimum of 5 GCSEs of Grade 5 or above.
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About the course
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Criminology covers all aspects of crime from types of crime to the range of punishments people receive for committing crime.
Topics include: How crime is portrayed in the media and how this affects people’s views of crime; different theories and explanations of why people commit crime; how crime is investigated and prosecuted; how laws are made and how punishment works, and ways to control crime. |
Next steps
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Criminology is a well-respected course of study if you are interested in further study in the areas of Psychology, Sociology and Law. It is also useful if you are interested in a career in Law / the legal services, Policing and the Criminal justice system, including the Prison and Probation Service and Social Work. |
Contact |
Economics
Name of Course |
Economics |
Exam Board |
AQA |
Qualification type |
A Level |
Entry requirements |
A minimum of 5 GCSES at Grade 5 or above including GCSE Maths. |
About the course
|
Have you ever wondered why some companies make billions yet others fail almost immediately? What the best course of action is for governments when struggling with high unemployment or rising costs of living? These are just two of the questions we study at A Level Economics. We analyse individual markets and businesses, studying how consumers behave and how businesses can exploit our psychology to sell more of their products. You will also get a taste of what it is like to be the Chancellor of the Exchequer, having to find the best solutions to solving economic issues such as high unemployment, poverty and the sale of goods which damage the environment and society. Is it as simple as increasing tax or introducing laws and regulations, or are there problems which may arise from these? Find answers to all this and more… |
Next steps
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Top universities love Economics as it shows you to be a well-rounded student who can demonstrates your ability to apply both mathematical and essay skills. Future careers which an economics A-Level can help with include, but are certainly not limited to; business, banking and finance, journalism and broadcasting, politics and even charity work. In fact, an IFS study in 2020 found Economics university graduates were the second highest paid of all other degrees! |
Contact |
English Language & Literature - Combined A Level
Name of Course |
English Language & Literature |
Exam Board |
AQA |
Qualification type |
A Level |
Entry requirements
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A minimum of 5 GCSES at Grade 5 or above including GCSE English Language.
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About the course
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A Level Language and Literature at The Rodillian Academy offers an integrated approach to both disciplines within the study of English. The A Level English Language and Literature specification is an integrated course which brings together literary and non-literary discourses. Students will study the way language choices create representations and worlds in both literary and non-literary texts. Literary texts are defined as those that are drawn from the three main literary genres of prose fiction, poetry and drama. Non-literary texts not only included non-fiction but also texts that are not formally published for example letters, speech and multi-media. The course will explore the similarities and differences between such texts and consider issues of literariness and literalness. Students will engage creatively, critically and independently with a wide range of texts and use and analyse texts from a range of modes and genres and will also develop skills as producers of language by creating their own texts and reflecting on that process. We encourage students to develop a love of and curiosity for language and literature. Students work with a team of highly specialised teachers covering two exam papers and a Non-Exam Assessment / Coursework folder. The NEA requires an independent investigation. |
Next steps
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English Language and Literature is welcomed by most universities and is highly regarded when applying for English related courses or courses with shared ground such as Law, Sociology or Psychology. In fact, it will complement almost any course you may choose to follow. Specific careers such as teaching, law, working with children, librarian or journalism are all routes to which you could naturally progress. You will also have gained an ability to analyse, control, and shape communication which will make you an attractive prospect for any employer in a range of services or industries. |
Contact |
pnewton@rodillianacademy. |
English Literature
Name of Course |
English Literature |
Exam Board |
AQA |
Qualification type |
A Level |
Entry requirements
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A minimum of 5 GCSES at Grade 5 or above including GCSE English Literature.
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About the course
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A Level Literature encourages the independent study of a range of texts across time and will broaden your knowledge and love of the subject. By choosing this course, you will study a variety of texts including one Shakespeare play, a selection of love poetry, a selection of literary extracts and at least two sets of prose texts. You will be expected to read widely around the subject beyond the set texts for contextual and comparative purposes. |
Next steps
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English Literature is a subject which is well regarded by University Admissions Tutors and by employers. Students opting for this subject in the Sixth Form frequently go on to study it at university, enjoying potential careers in teaching, the art and entertainment industries, the media or legal professions. Similarly, an A Level in Literature is an excellent support qualification for those wishing to study degrees in Psychology, Sociology, History or Law. |
Contact |
Fine Art
Name of Course |
Fine Art |
Exam Board |
AQA |
Qualification type |
A Level |
Entry requirements
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A Grade 5 or above in GCSE Art or GCSE Photography |
About the course
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The main component of the A Level Fine Art course is the personal investigation project. For this, you will generate ideas based on a theme of your choosing, inspired by your personal interests and artistic style. You will make links with other artists and designers, both historical and contemporary. You will record images through observational drawing and primary source photography. You will show evidence of the development of your artwork from starting point to final outcome, and annotate your work throughout to explain the development of your ideas, and the connections you have made with other art practitioners. You will experiment with a range of varied materials and techniques, from the traditional paint, pastel, and clay to digital processes such as Photoshop. All this development sketchbook work will lead to the creation of a large-scale final piece. |
Next steps
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Fine Art A Level is accepted as a highly regarded qualification for anyone who wishes to go to university to study a wide range of other subjects. It is essential if you wish to go on to study an art and design-based degree. In terms of career opportunities, almost 1 in 8 UK businesses are in the creative sector, UK creative industries generate more than 100 billion pounds a year to the UK economy and employ more than 2 million people. They are looking for candidates with a higher education art qualification because it shows you have an ability to be creative, generate ideas, and think visually. We have had previous Rodillian art students go on to be successful architects, photographers, fashion designers, teachers, illustrators, web designers, interior designers, make-up artists, and to work in film and TV. |
Contact |
Further Maths
Name of Course |
Further Maths |
Exam Board |
Edexcel |
Qualification type |
A Level |
Entry requirements
|
A Grade 8 or above in GCSE Maths. |
About the course
|
Further Mathematics is a very desirable qualification, suitable for students with a passion and a flair for Mathematics. All students will study the Core Pure Mathematics content which introduces a whole new world of mathematical concepts, ideas, and techniques. Complex Numbers, Matrices, Polar Coordinates, Hyperbolic Functions and Differential Equations are among the new ideas encountered and you’ll also learn how to square root a negative number! Students will also get to choose two optional modules based on their interests and career aspirations. You can choose to go into a greater depth in Pure Maths, Mechanics and Statistics or learn about a whole new area of Maths called Decision Maths. In this module you’ll learn about game theory, optimisation problems and how algorithms work, with strong links to Computer Science. |
Next steps
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A highly desirable qualification; any student thinking about studying Mathematics at university should consider it. Almost all the top universities (Cambridge, UCL, Warwick, Kings College, etc.) list it as an essential requirement and the others are following suit. Just like with Mathematics, data released in 2019 from the Department for Education revealed that, on average, people who studied Further Mathematics at A-level were earning more than those who studied any other subject. |
Contact |
Geography
Name of Course |
Geography |
Exam Board |
AQA |
Qualification type |
A Level |
Entry requirements
|
A minimum of 5 GCSES at Grade 5 or above. |
About the course
|
The AQA Geography specification offers a solid foundation in both physical and human geography and in practical applied skills. The specification allows you to develop an in-depth knowledge and understanding of physical, human, and environmental geography whilst also exploring the interrelationships between physical and human environments in a synoptic context. Fieldwork is important and there is an opportunity for you to spend a week exploring geographical issues in the field in preparation for a geographical skills examination. |
Next steps
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Geography is a highly regarded academic A-level. It is the only subject in school that can be classified as a science or an arts subject and is counted in relevant qualifications for all university courses. The transferrable skills used throughout the course are highly prized by employers, and geographers are employed in many subject specific careers and numerous other more general professions. Some subject specific jobs include Geo-Physics, Water Management and Utilities, Environment Agency Officer, Vulcanologist, Hydrologist and environmental consultancy. |
Contact |
Government and Politics
Name of Course |
Government and Politics |
Exam Board |
Edexcel |
Qualification type |
A Level |
Entry requirements |
A minimum of 5 GCSEs at Grade 5 & above. |
About the course
|
There has never been a more interesting time to study A Level Politics! Controversial political issues and debates dominate the news, and A Level Politics will help you make sense of all of it! We study Politics in both the UK and the USA, making comparisons between the two and critically evaluating the pros and cons of our versions of democracy. You will study who holds the power and how it is we can limit the power of our leaders, be that through protest or other legal measures. On top of all this, you will learn what the key political ideologies are and help you recognise where you best fit on the political spectrum. Are you a Socialist or Conservative, a Libertarian or Communist? |
Next steps
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Politics degrees can take you all over the world. Politics graduates regularly work in careers including law, politics, journalism and broadcasting, charity work and international relations all over the world. Universities also highly regard Politics A Levels as it demonstrates an ability to critically analyse and evaluate points in essays. |
Contact |
zgrist@rodillianacademy.co.uk |
Health and Social Care
Name of Course |
Health and Social Care |
Exam Board |
|
Qualification type |
Level 3 Extended Certificate |
Entry requirements
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A minimum of 5 GCSES at Grade 5 and above. |
About the course
|
This qualification gives you the opportunity to delve into a number of areas in both health and social care. Topics include, equality and diversity, anatomy and physiology, safeguarding and building relations hips in the care sector. You will learn by applying your skills, knowledge and understanding to tasks or activities that are relevant to what happens in health, social care and childcare workplaces. You will develop an appreciation of what happens in the workplace which will help to prepare you for continuing your education or training in this sector. |
Next steps
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This qualification will provide you with the skills, knowledge and understanding that will allow you to progress to Higher Education on a health and social care-related programme such as Health and Social Care, Nursing, Social Work, Midwifery nursing or Early Childhood Studies. |
Contact |
History
Name of Course |
History |
Exam Board |
OCR |
Qualification type |
A Level |
Entry requirements
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A minimum of 5 GCSES at Grade 5 and above. |
About the course
|
A Level History gives you a fantastic opportunity to critically assess and analyse some of the most interesting and hotly debated topics from the past. You will learn how to analyse sources and evaluate historians, along with developing your own writing style and learning how to argue your own opinions effectively. We study the Civil Rights Movement in the USA for African Americans, Women, Native Americans, and the Working Classes; assessing the key reasons for and barriers to change they have faced. You will also study Norman England and how William the Conqueror helped shape society today, and The Cold War in Asia (with a particular focus on why the USA failed to defeat Communist forces in Vietnam). Finally, you will have the opportunity to study whatever you want for Coursework, specialising in anything from the Romans to the Romanovs, The French Revolution to the Industrial Revolution. |
Next steps
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History is seen as a facilitating subject by universities so is highly sought after for almost all options as it highlights your ability to analyse and evaluate argument at length. Careers which historians regularly go into include, but are by no means limited to; law, politics, journalism and broadcasting, archaeology, publishing, police investigation and, of course, becoming an historian. |
Contact |
zgrist@rodillianacademy.co.uk |
Law
Name of Course |
Law |
Exam Board |
AQA |
Qualification type |
A Level |
Entry requirements
|
A minimum of 5 GCSEs at Grade 5 or above. |
About the course
|
Law is a fascinating and exciting subject. You will cover a wide range of topics across a spectrum of laws. These predominately focus on criminal law, civil disputes and human rights law. The core skills will you learn are based around application of law to scenario, replicating how legal advice would be given in real life practice. You can expect lots of interesting debate and the chance to gain a compelling insight into real life legal problems. |
Next steps
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Law can lead to many career options. It is highly regarding as a challenging subject and marries together well with a range of other subjects. This could be science, to lead on to careers in forensics, or Business for roles in HR, Finance/Accountancy, Insurance, or the Civil Service. Law is also an obvious choice for the legal profession, allowing you to study law before you go to university or embark on an apprenticeship to become a Solicitor or Barrister. |
Contact |
Maths
Name of Course |
Maths |
Exam Board |
Edexcel |
Qualification type |
A Level |
Entry requirements
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A Grade 6 or above in GCSE Mathematics. |
About the course
|
A level Maths is a highly respected course which teaches you to think logically and systematically to solve problems. In Pure Maths you will build on your knowledge of GCSE topics such as Algebra and Trigonometry, and learn new topics such as Differentiation, Integration, Mathematical Modelling and other important mathematical ideas developed by great minds such as Isaac Newton, Leonard Euler and more. Mechanics is the area of mathematics concerned with the motion of physical objects and the relationships between force, matter and motion; a perfect foundation for any budding Engineers. In an increasingly data-driven world, many companies and universities value numerical competence in order to interpret graphs and data. Statistics develops these skills and more. |
Next steps
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A Level Maths is a highly sought-after qualification and Russell Group research puts Maths as one of the A Level subjects most asked for by universities. Students who study Maths go on to study a wide range of degree courses such as Science, Architecture, Computer Science, Medicine, Law, Philosophy and many more. Maths is also an essential A Level if you wish to study Maths, Physics, Economics, Actuarial Science, Statistics and almost all Engineering subjects. Several research papers have also shown that those who take A Level Maths earn an average of 11% more over their lifetime compared to those taking other A-Levels. |
Contact |
Media
Name of Course |
Media |
Exam Board |
WJEC |
Qualification type |
A Level |
Entry requirements
|
A minimum of 5 GCSEs at Grade 5 or above. |
About the course
|
Media Studies will allow you to develop an in depth understanding of how the media communicates meaning in a variety of forms. You will have the opportunity to critically explore, reflect, analyse, and debate key issues in the media industry by studying components that include, Media language, representation and production. You will also learn to use industry standard Adobe software such as Photoshop, Illustrator and Premier to create your productions. |
Next steps
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Media Studies graduates typically enter careers in the media, cultural and creative industries. Areas of work include television and radio, film and video, digital media, computer games, journalism, writing, publishing, PR and media practice. |
Contact |
Photography
Name of Course |
Photography |
Exam Board |
AQA |
Qualification type |
A Level |
Entry requirements
|
A minimum of 5 GCSEs Grade 5 or above. |
About the course
|
The main purpose of any course in Art and Design is to develop your ability to appreciate the visual world and respond in a personal and creative way. You will develop the skills to interpret and convey your ideas and feelings using photography. You will develop your imaginative and creative powers and your experimental, analytical and documenting skills. You will also develop the specialist vocabulary and knowledge and understanding of the place of photography and design in history and contemporary society. The course will look at image manipulation with Photoshop and students will learn how to use ICT as a tool. Most work will be school based. However, a willingness to venture widely in pursuit of photography is an important quality to have on the course. |
Next steps
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Photography can lead to a range of career opportunities such as graphic design, crime scene photography, fashion, games design, advertising, interior design, merchandising and even web design. |
Contact |
Physical Education
Name of Course |
Physical Education |
Exam Board |
AQA |
Qualification type |
A Level |
Entry requirements
|
A minimum of 5 GCSEs Grade 5 or above. You must compete in one sport either in school or for a club. |
About the course
|
A-Level Physical Education aims to build further on the knowledge, skills and understanding that you gained at GCSE. The course is designed to help you to analyse and evaluate factors that underpin performance and involvement in physical activity and sport. You will demonstrate and apply relevant skills, techniques and tactics in physical activity and sport. Topics include: Applied Anatomy & Physiology, Skill Acquisition, Sport in Society, Exercise Physiology, Biomechanics, Sports Psychology and Sports Technology. |
Next steps
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Studying A-Level Physical Education will provide many further opportunities to enter the sport and physical activity sector. Students may go on to study a range of courses at university such as Sports Science, Physiotherapy, PE teaching, Sports Psychology, Sports Medicine and many more. There are also career opportunities in Sports Coaching, Personal Training, Sports Therapy, Sports Analysist and Media in Sport. |
Contact |
Physics
Name of Course |
Physics |
Exam Board |
AQA |
Qualification type |
A Level |
Entry requirements
|
A Grade 6 or above in GCSE Physics or a Grade 6-6 or above if you have studied GCSE Combined Science. A minimum of a Grade 5 in GCSE Maths. |
About the course
|
A Level Physics is designed to build on the knowledge that you gained at GCSE. The course is designed to allow you to develop key skills such as problem solving, numeracy and application to real-life contexts. Topics include Particle Physics, Quantum phenomena and radiation, Nuclear Physics, Gravitational Fields, Magnetic Fields, Electricity, Capacitors and Electric Fields and Mechanics You will also complete 12 assessed practicals and earn a separate practical endorsement qualification as a result. You will develop skills that are sought after at university and in industry in order to be able to be a competent investigator or researcher. |
Next steps
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Physics is an extremely well-respected subject and Universities and employers appreciate the skills and knowledge that students have studied. Physics carries with it a lot of kudos and is renowned for its study of the unexplainable to the ordinary person. The ability to see beyond the normal world we live in opens up endless possibilities for those that study it. Students who study A Level Physics may go on to study a range of courses such as Engineering, Physics (pure Physics, Astrophysics, Theoretical Physics and more specialist areas), Aeronautical Science, Maths, Chemistry, Healthcare, Law, Environmental Science, Veterinary Science, Environmental Science, Biology, Medicine, Forensics, Pharmacy and many more. As well as going on to study at University, students also go on to undertake higher level apprenticeships in subjects such as Engineering of which there are many different types. |
Contact |
Psychology
Name of Course |
Psychology |
Exam Board |
AQA |
Qualification type |
A Level |
Entry requirements
|
A minimum of 5 GCSEs at Grade 5 or above. |
About the course
|
Psychology is the study of mind and behaviour. The A Level Psychology qualification offers an engaging introduction to this diverse and interesting subject; you will learn the fundamentals of Psychology and develop skills valued by Higher Education and employers, including critical analysis, independent thinking and research. |
Next steps
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The scientific aspects of your Psychology course, including the application of a reasoned approach, problem solving and manipulation of data, provide useful tools for careers in healthcare, law enforcement, finance, IT and research. A psychology degree is a great starting point for a career in both science and the arts, as it equips you with a range of skills and opens up opportunities with a range of employers. |
Contact |
Religious Education and Ethics
Name of Course |
RE, Philosophy and Ethics |
Exam Board |
AQA |
Qualification type |
A Level |
Entry requirements
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A minimum of 5 GCSEs at Grade 5 or above. |
About the course
|
Even the famous atheist Richard Dawkins said, “RE is important as you cannot understand culture without it”. There are two components to the course, the first of which is Philosophy and Ethics. Philosophy literally means ‘the love of wisdom’. This is an in depth look at how the world works, what life is, arguments about the existence of God (or otherwise), and how we can claim to know anything at all. Ethics is about the ways we know the difference between right and wrong and whether rules are just made up. The second component is about Christianity and what it has to say on other religions, gender and sexuality, and life and death among other things. |
Next steps
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RE, on its own, will not set you down the route of a specific career path – you won’t graduate as a nun or a priest. But what it does give you is a solid and fundamental evidence basis in a range of skills which are highly sought after by a huge range of universities and employers. Skills such as critical thinking, dealing with abstract concepts in grounded ways, analysing culture and values, deconstructing and evaluating debate, and constructing arguments. This can take you a great many places you may wish to go in future studies and career. |
Contact |
Sociology
Name of Course |
Sociology |
Exam Board |
AQA |
Qualification type |
A Level |
Entry requirements
|
5 GCSEs Grade 5 or above. |
About the course
|
You will study changes to the education system and systems of belief in the UK. You will investigate the impact this has on achievement for different groups in society. Alongside this, you will also delve into the different types of families and households that exist in the UK today, looking at how these have evolved over time. Through this research, you will learn about different theoretical perspectives and apply this knowledge; examining different theories that exist within Sociology, looking at the impact of these on our understanding of society and how theoretical perspectives can impact on choice of research methods, as well as looking at the long-term impact. You will also examine present day issues surrounding crime including punishment and prevention strategies. |
Next steps
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Sociology is highly regarded A-Level which can open more doors than you might expect. Students who study A Level Sociology may go on to Social Work, Law, Human Resources, Media, Probation Services, Research, Nursing, Educational Psychology, Public Services, and Teaching. |
Contact |