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GCSE and A level Art & Design courses for young people (12+) and adults
Understanding advanced and higher level Art & Design, suitable for aspiring GCSE and A Level Art and Design students
AS and A’level Art and Design
This challenging and creative course encourages analytical and imaginative approaches to Art and Design. The teaching enables the student to develop critical and contextual understanding of modern and post modern visual art movements.
Ex : from Futurism to Installation and Conceptual art.
The focuses on the learner producing their own original and personal responses. This course encourages the use of mixed media and multi media as acceptable visual communication, from drawing, photography to sculpture.
Qualification type : A level - level 3
Accreditation status : Edexcel accredited
Specification code 9ADO
Pathways Fine art (59FAO)
Graphic communication( 9GCO)
Textile design (9TEO)
3 dimensional design (9TDO)
Photography (9DYO)
The IGCSE covers business in the context of international markets and the United Kingdom and as such is ideally suited to an international school and the students day to day experiences. The course is designed to be studied over 2 years and is a good introduction to the A Level.
The subjects that students will cover are:
The A Level builds on the knowledge gained in the IGCSE, although it can be taken independently, students are encouraged to use their business knowledge, analyzing and evaluating information before relating to real life situations. The course is spread over 2 years and incorporates the following subjects:
KS3 English
Pupils will be taught how to develop their writing skills across a wide range of genres. They will develop an awareness of audience, purpose and context. They will acquire a wide vocabulary and an understanding of grammar and linguistic conventions for reading, writing and spoken language.
They will be encouraged to read widely and often, both for pleasure and information. We aim to develop our pupils' ability to read fluently and with good understanding. The skills of inference and deduction will be key to analyzing a wide range of fiction texts.
Pupils will become competent in the arts of speaking and listening, making formal presentations and participating in debate.
GCSE English Literature
The course provides students with the opportunity to explore a range of literature as well as the opportunity to respond to it in some depth. Teaching aims to expand student understanding and recognition to how writers create impact in their works. The course also enables them to develop the skills and vocabulary to respond critically to the writer’s craft. They strengthen their analytical skills in the process. Students are encouraged to be able to comment on the importance of wider cultural and social contexts that affect the reading of a text. A broad range of literature is explored; including poetry, a work of Shakespeare and a 19th century novel.
Qualification type : GCSE Level 1/Level 2
Accreditation status : Edexcel accredited
Specification code : 1ET0
Pathways
Shakespeare and Post-1914 Literature (1ET0/01)
19th-century Novel and Poetry since 1789 * (1ET0/02)
AS and A Level English Literature
This challenging course encourages close exploration of a variety of works of literature, both contemporary and more traditional. Teaching aims to expand student awareness of the writer’s craft and to strengthen students’ analytical skills. Small classes allow interactive discussion of texts, their meanings and the contexts of their production. While there is a clear new emphasis on more recent contemporary writing, recognition of the importance of wider cultural and historical contexts though the study of works from different eras, is also maintained.
Qualification type : A level, Level 3
Accreditation status : Edexcel accredited
Specification code : 9ET0
Pathways
Drama : Shakespeare and one other play (9ET0/01)
Prose : Two texts on a shared theme (one being pre-1900) (9ET0/02)
Poetry : Post 2000 poetry and other specialist study (9ET0/03)
Coursework : Long essay on any two texts (free choice) (9ET0/04)
IGCSE English Language (Specification A)
Mixing both a response to media texts with the ability to comment on both poetry and short pieces of prose, this course equips students with the necessary writing and analytical skills essential in all studies. Teaching allows active discussion of materials, the chance to consolidate reading skills and to develop close analytical responses to content, layout and language. Students are encouraged to consider the varied ways writers create impact and meaning in their works. The anthology texts touch on a number of different contemporary issues, mixing both fiction and non-fiction materials. The importance wider cultural or social contexts is also considered in how these may affect the reading of a text. The course enables students to develop the skills and vocabulary necessary to respond critically.
Qualification type : IGCSE Level 1/Level 2
Accreditation status : Edexcel accredited
Specification code : 4EA1
Pathways
Non-fiction Texts and Transactional Writing (4EA1/01)
Poetry and Prose Texts and Imaginative Writing (4EA1/02)
AS and A Level English Language
Anyone with an interest in how language functions and changes will find this course fascinating. A Level in English Language enables students to build and develop their awareness of the concepts and pressures that shape the language we share.
The course is divided into two sections; language acquisition and language change.
The first part looks at how speech develops in children and then follows through initial development of reading and writing.
The second part looks not only at language change over time but how language is changing in the world today.
In the course of their studies students explore data and examples of language in use and also engage creatively and critically. They develop their skills as producers and interpreters of language. They also have the opportunity to put their understandings into practice with an independent investigation of language in use.
Qualification type : A level, Level 3
Accreditation status : Edexcel accredited
Specification code : 9EN0
Pathways
Language Variation (9EN0/01)
Child Language (9EN0/02)
Investigating Language (9EN0/03)
Crafting Language (9EN0/04)
KS3 French
Students will begin by acquiring a basic vocabulary, relating to their everyday lives and interests. Teaching will focus on developing students' confidence in listening, speaking, reading and writing.
They will learn to use a variety of key grammatical structures and patterns. Lessons will be interactive and will include games, puzzles, songs, stories and the use of I.T. We aim to foster a love of the French language, culture and customs.
IGCSE French
This interesting and useful course offers the practice of all four skills (listening, reading, writing and oral) through a vast range of topics relevant to a young learner.
The students are encouraged to communicate effectively in a positive environment. They are also given confidence through a solid foundation of vocabulary and basic knowledge of grammar. Our small classes enable the learner to practice the language on a very regular basis during each session.
Qualification type : International GCSE - level 1/2
Accreditation status : Edexcel accredited
Specification code : 4FR1
AS and A Level French
This new challenging and interesting course continues the development of oral, reading, listening and written skills at a higher level.
The syllabus covers in depth study of four major themes (the evolution of French society ; political and artistic culture in the French-speaking world ; immigration and multicultural society in France ; WW2 Occupation and Resistance) within which the language, grammar, vocabulary and translation skills along with oral techniques are developed. The learners are also required to study either two works of written literature or one literary work and one film from a prescribed list which complements the themes covered over the two year course and which are the basis for the written part of the exam (only one at AS level).
Qualification type : AS or A level : level 3
Accreditation status : Edexcel accredited
Specification code : 8FR0 (AS) 9FR0 (A level)
Key Stage 3 Geography
In Key stage 3 we consolidate and extend students knowledge of the world’s major countries and their physical and human features. They begin to understand how geographical processes interact to create distinctive human and physical landscapes that change over time. In doing so, they become aware of increasingly complex geographical systems in the world around them. Students develop greater competence in using geographical knowledge, approaches and concepts [such as models and theories] and geographical skills in analysing and interpreting different data sources. In this way students continue to enrich their locational knowledge and spatial and environmental understanding.
Themes that we cover during key stage 3 include the following :
iGCSE in Geography
This course brings together physical geography and people-environment processes and interactions. The course is divided into two sections.
Two out of three topics from: river environments, coastal environments, hazardous environments.
Topic 1: River environments – features of the global hydrological cycle (including drainage basins), the physical processes that give rise to distinct river landforms and detailed case studies of river management in a developed and a developing or emerging country.
Topic 2: Coastal environments – the processes that give rise to characteristic coastal landforms, threats facing coastal ecosystems and detailed case studies of coastal management in a developed and a developing or emerging country.
Topic 3: Hazardous environments – the characteristics and distribution of different types of natural hazard, the measurement and impacts of hazards and detailed case studies of the management of an earthquake in a developed and a developing or emerging country.
Students are required to undertake a geographical investigation involving fieldwork and research, in one natural environment.
This is an interesting and challenging course which, through discussion and research allows students to develop both knowledge and understanding of their world.
Key Stage 3 History
In History at Key stage 3 we build upon and develop students understanding of the past, in both Britain and the world. Students will gain skills to test knowledge of key events, allowing them to critically explore how these helped shape the world today. Pupils will be encouraged to ask perceptive questions, think critically, weigh evidence, sift arguments, and develop perspective and judgement. History will help pupils to understand the complexity of other people’s lives and their own as well as allowing them to become aware of processes of change. The will appreciate the diversity of societies and relationships between different groups, as well as gaining a deeper understanding of their own identity and the challenges of their time.
Topics covered during key stage 3 include:
Key Stage 3 ICT
During the Key Stage students will be taught the principles of information and computation, how digital systems work, and how to put this knowledge to use through programming.
A key focus for ICT is to prepare students for the technological world in which we live. We aim to give them the capability in ICT to become increasingly independent users of ICT tools and information sources. Students are focused, efficient and rigorous in their use of ICT and will increasingly work on a range of complex tasks. They will develop their skills using a range of software.
Students will develop an awareness of how ICT can help their work in other subjects and in everyday life. At the same time they will gain the ability to judge which software to use and whether ICT is appropriate for their task.
The students enjoy their lessons within a positive and safe learning environment, they are actively encouraged to be aware of security issues concerning computer use and to apply safe practise in their use of the Internet.
iGCSE in Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
This course is an interesting and egaging course which extends the student’s knowledge and understanding of the ICT tools which are an integral part of their daily lives
The aims and objectives of this qualification are to enable students to:
• explore how digital technology impacts on the lives of individuals, organisations and society
• learn about current and emerging digital technologies and the issues raised by their use in a range of contexts by individuals and organisations
• develop awareness of the risks that are inherent in using ICT and the features of safe, secure and responsible practice
• broaden and enhance their ICT skills and capability
• work with a range of digital tools and techniques to produce effective ICT solutions in a range of contexts
• learn how to reflect critically on their own and others’ use of ICT and how to adopt safe, secure and responsible practice.
Written Paper
Students must study all of the following topics:
Topic 1: Digital Devices
Topic 2: Connectivity
Topic 3: Operating Online
Topic 4: Online Goods and Services.
Practical Paper - 3 hour practical examination
Students must study both of the following topics:
Topic 5: Applying Information and Communication Technology
Topic 6: Software Skills
Key Stage 3 Maths
During the Key Stage students will revisit and develop their skills established in their previous school and we will begin to introduce them to a more complex level of Mathematics which will best prepare them for their GCSE.
Through a range of stimulating teaching methods, practical activities and regular assessments we encourage a love of Mathematics and aim to fill any gaps in student’s knowledge. This helps the students to become confident, enthusiastic mathematicians who reach their potential whatever their age or ability.
Mathematics is divided into the main topics: Number, Algebra, Geometry and Statistics. Through all topic areas we challenge the students with problem solving activities and real life contexts.
iGCSE in Mathematics
It is evident that Mathematics and English Language are essentials. This course provides all essential mathematical skills and extra content to extend the students understanding.
The Pearson Edexcel International iGCSE in Mathematics (Specification A) qualification enables students to:
• develop their knowledge and understanding of mathematical concepts and techniques
• acquire a foundation of mathematical skills for further study in the subject or related areas
• enjoy using and applying mathematical techniques and concepts, and become confident in using mathematics to solve problems
• appreciate the importance of mathematics in society, employment and study.
Mathematics (Specification A) content
Foundation Tier :
1: Numbers and the number system
2: Equations, formulae and identities
3: Sequences, functions and graphs
4: Geometry and trigonometry
5: Vectors and transformation geometry
6: Statistics and probability
Higher Tier 1:
Numbers and the number system
2: Equations, formulae and identities
3: Sequences, functions and graphs
4: Geometry and trigonometry
5: Vectors and transformation geometry
6: Statistics and probability
International A Level in Mathematics
Pearson Edexcel International Advanced Subsidiary in Mathematics (XMA01)
Pearson Edexcel International Advanced Level in Mathematics (YMA01)
This is a demanding two year course
The full International Advanced Level award comprises four units; Core Mathematics units C12 and C34 plus two Applications units from one of the following five combinations: M1 and S1; M1 and D1; M1 and M2; S1 and D1; S1 and S2.
Year 1
Has a Core unit 12 and optional units chosen from student interests and abilities, these are Mechanics, Statistics and Discovery Maths
Year 2
Has a Core unit 134 and optional units chosen from student interests and abilities, these are Mechanics, Statistics and Discovery Maths
STAGE 3 MUSIC
Music is a universal language that embodies one of the highest forms of creativity. Music is taught to engage and inspire pupils to develop a love of music and their talent as musicians, and so increase their self
- confidence, creativity and sense of achievement. As pupils progress, they should develop a critical engagement with music,allowing them to compose,and to listen with discrimination to the best in the musical canon.
Pupils will be required to:
- perform, listen to, review and evaluate music across a range of historical periods, genres, styles and traditions,including the works of the great composers and musicians
- learn to sing and to use their voices, to create and compose music on their own and with others, have the opportunity to learn a musical instrument, use technology appropriately and have the opportunity to progress to the next level of musical excellence
- understand and explore how music is created, produced and communicated, including through the inter-related dimensions: pitch, duration, dynamics, tempo, timbre, texture, structure and appropriate musical notation.
This challenging and creative course encourages analytical and imaginative approaches to Music. The teaching enables the student to develop critical and contextual understanding of different musical genres.
Ex : from Western Classical Music to World Music.
Students of GCSE Music will learn to perform, compose and appreciate different types of music, developing critical and creative thinking, cultural, aesthetic and emotional awareness, and the ability to make music individually and as part of a group.
Qualification type : GCSE Level 1/2
Accreditation status : Edexcel accredited
Specification code : 1MU0
Our Programme helps to safeguard pupils, support their spiritual, moral, cultural, mental and physical development and prepare them for the opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of life.
It is often a helpful introduction to IGCSE subjects such as Religious Studies (which is largely to do with ethics).
Rosie Chazallet RGN, RSCN, MA CANTAB
Religious Studies involves the study of many topical subjects, mainly viewed from Atheist, Agnostic and Christian angles. We prepare for the exam with much debate as well as written work; a thought- provoking subject throughout the year.
Qualification Type: IGCSE level 1/2.
Accreditation Status: Edexcel accredited.
Specification Code: 4RS0
Rosie Chazallet - Religious Studies Teacher
International Advanced Level Biology (2018)
The Edexcel International Advanced Level in Biology is designed to be studied over two years, but gives students the option of completing only the first year, namely the AS level course, if they so wish. The course seeks to inform and inspire young people about the wonders of living organisms. It teaches students about the nature of science and the rigours of scientific investigation, as applied in the field of Biology.
The topics range from human and plant physiology to genetics, health, ecology, natural selection and evolution. As the students develop their knowledge and understanding of basic biological concepts, they learn to apply them in relevant and current situations, always mindful of the ethical responsibilities that scientific knowledge brings with it.
They explore how different areas of Biology relate to one another and how society makes decisions about biology-related issues. The course is divided into 6 Units, which include two units that focus on the development and application of practical skills in the field of Biology. All the units are examined by means of externally set examinations.
Qualification type International A Level
Level Level 3
Accreditation status Edexcel accredited
Specification code XBI11 (AS) YBI11 (A2)
International Advanced Level Chemistry (2013)
The Edexcel International Advanced Level in Chemistry is designed to be studied over two years, but gives students the option of completing only the first year, namely the AS level course, if they so wish. The course develops a student’s knowledge and understanding of chemical principles and encourages students to apply this knowledge in contemporary chemistry contexts.
There is a focus on aspects of chemistry that are often in the media, such as climate change, green chemistry and the use of pharmaceuticals. Specific topics include atomic structure, energetics, rates of reactions, equilibria, transition metals and a large chunk of organic chemistry. The course teaches the fundamental knowledge needed for progression into higher education, research and employment.
The course is divided into 6 Units, which include two units that focus on the development and application of practical, laboratory skills in the field of Chemistry. All the units are examined by means of externally set examinations.
Qualification type International A Level
Level Level 3
Accreditation status Edexcel accredited
Specification code XCH01 (AS) YCH01 (A2)
International GCSE in Biology 9 - 1 (2017)
The Edexcel International GCSE in Biology is a two-year course that is assessed by means of two external examinations with no coursework component. The study of this subject encourages the appreciation and understanding of living organisms and develops a student’s ability to apply core biological concepts and principles in changing and relevant situations.
The content topics include the variety, structure and function in living organisms, reproduction and genetics, ecology and the use of biological resources in modern life. Although there is no practical laboratory component to the course, students are taught the importance of accurate scientific investigation and analysis in biology and learn the correct use of laboratory techniques via the suite of classical biological experiments that form part of the course. The IGCSE in Biology teaches students to think logically and scientifically and prepares them for further learning at A Level.
Qualification type: International GCSE
Level: Level 1/2
Subject: Biology 9-1 (2017)
Specification codes: 4BI1
International GCSE in Chemistry 9 – 1 (2017)
The Edexcel International GCSE in Chemistry is a two-year course that is assessed by means of two external examinations with no coursework component. It aims to introduce students to the principles and concepts of chemistry and enable them to use the terminology and knowledge in different and relevant contexts. The course covers introductory inorganic, physical and organic chemistry and stresses the practical nature of the subject by developing experimental and investigative skills and the use of correct and safe laboratory techniques.
This course enables students to appreciate that chemistry underlies our modern use of resources and our understanding of living organisms and ourselves. It is a gateway course for those who wish to study Chemistry at higher levels in future.
Qualification type: International GCSE
Level: Level 1/2
Subject: Chemistry 9-1 (2017)
Specification code: 4CH1
International GCSE in Physics 9 – 1 (2017)
The Edexcel International GCSE in Physics is a two-year course that is assessed by means of two external examinations with no coursework component. It enables students to learn about the unifying patterns and themes in physics and to use these in new and relevant contexts. The course covers topics which include forces, electricity, waves, magnetism, radioactivity and astrophysics and students are taught to use the terminology, knowledge and principles in assessing and evaluating physical information.
The practical and investigative skills of students are developed via exposure to the suite of classical and common experiments in Physics. The IGCSE in Physics teaches students to think logically and scientifically and prepares them for further learning at A Level and beyond.
Qualification type: International GCSE
Level: Level 1/2
Subject: Physics 9-1 (2017)
Specification codes: 4PH1
International A level in Physics
Pearson Edexcel International Advanced Subsidiary in Physics (XPH01)
Pearson Edexcel International Advanced Level in Physics (YPH01)
This is a demanding, and yet enjoyable, two year course.
Year 1 examined as International advanced subsidiary in May June.
There are three Units to be studied
Unit 1 Physics on the Go
This unit involves the study of mechanics (rectilinear motion, forces, energy and power) and materials (flow of liquids, viscosity, Stokes’ Law, properties of materials, Young’s modulus and elastic strain energy).
Unit 2 Physics at Work
This unit involves the study of waves (including refraction, polarisation, diffraction and standing (stationary) waves), electricity (current and resistance, Ohm’s law and non-ohmic materials, potential dividers, emf and internal resistance of cells, and negative temperature coefficient thermistors) and the wave/particle nature of light.
Unit 3 Exploring Physics
Students are expected to develop experimental skills, and a knowledge and understanding of experimental techniques, by carrying out a range of practical experiments and investigations while they study Units 1 and 2.
This unit will assess students’ knowledge and understanding of experimental procedures and techniques that were developed in Units 1 and 2.
Year 2 is examined at the end of the second year
There are three Units to be studied
Unit 4 Physics on the move
This unit involves the study of further mechanics (momentum and circular motion), electric and magnetic fields, and particle physics.
Unit 5 Physics from Creation to Collapse
This unit involves the study of thermal energy, nuclear decay, oscillations, astrophysics and cosmology.
Unit 6 Experimental Physics
Students are expected to further develop the experimental skills and the knowledge and understanding of experimental techniques that they acquired in Units 1 and 2 by carrying out a range of practical experiments and investigations while they study Units 4 and 5.
This unit will assess students’ knowledge and understanding of the experimental procedures and techniques that were developed in Units 4 and 5.
International GCSE in Science (Double Award) 9 – 1 (2017)
The Edexcel International GCSE in Science (Double Award) is designed to be taught over two years. The course covers approximately two-thirds of the subject content of each of the IGCSE single sciences, namely Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Students are examined in three separate examinations (one in each of the sciences) and are then awarded two IGCSE grades for their performance in their best two examinations.
This course thus offers students the opportunity to experience the different branches of science and to gain knowledge and understanding of scientific concepts and principles against the backdrop of each of the three fields. Students are also taught the importance of accurate experimental work in addition to learning about appropriate laboratory techniques and reporting skills.
The topics covered in Biology include the diversity, structure and function of living organisms, genetics, ecology and the use of biological resources. In Chemistry the topics include a study of the elements as well as an introduction to organic chemistry and to physical chemistry. The course in Physics covers, amongst other topics, forces, electricity, waves and magnetism. Overall, the Double Award Science course aims to develop an enjoyment of, and an interest in, the world of science in general.
Qualification type: International GCSE
Level: Level 1/2
Subject: Science (Double Award) 9 -1 (2017)
Specification codes: 4SD0
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