St Paul's Catholic College
Providing Education For The Diocese Of Westminster
As Sixth Form students you are embarking on the most important phase of your academic career to date. This is your gateway to university, further education or employment. At St Paul's you will have a Sixth Form experience which offers a wide range of subject choice, exceptional teaching, a modern dedicated Sixth Form centre and an unrivalled opportunity to take responsibility for yourself and your learning. It is an environment where every young person is valued as an individual and where you can grow in self-confidence within the atmosphere of a close and supportive community.
National Extended Certificate in Applied Science
360 GLH (Guided Learning Hours)
Equivalent in size to one A Level.
4 units in total - 3 units are mandatory and 1 is optional
Unit 1: Principle and Application of Science
Unit 2: Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques
Unit 3: Science Investigation Skills
Unit 8: Physiology of human body systems
Unit 1: Principle and Application of Science - 3 x 30 minute exams (90 marks)
Unit 2: Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques - Internal Assessment
Unit 3: Science Investigation - 1 x practical exam (90 minutes) and 1 x exam (60 marks)
Unit 8: Physiology of Human Body Systems - Internal Assessment
BTEC Applied Science at St Paul’s is a popular choice with outstanding results. Class sizes allow students to complete practicals as well as enjoying researching the topics and putting their coursework together. Students are encouraged to use their independent thinking and enquiry to get the most out of the subject. These skills are fundamental for success in BTEC Applied Science. A willingness to work hard, meet strict deadlines and a strong interest in the subject are essential.
Energy transfer in and between organisms
Organisms respond to changes in their internal and external environment
Genetics, populations an evolution and ecosystems
The control of gene expression
Required practicals
Biology is a widely accepted at all Higher Education Institutions and by employers as it gives an excellent grounding in broad and specific-based skills and understanding. It enables students to develop their understanding of biodiversity, human influences on the Earth and more specific topical issues. Students gain powers of analysis, research and information handling which stand them in good stead for Higher Education or further employment.
Biology at St Paul’s has consistently been a very popular choice with a very good record in results. Biology is unique as a Science as it can be ably supported by subjects such as Psychology, Sports Studies, but equally with other Science subjects or even the Arts. The way Biology is taught here means that students get a lot of individual attention in investigative work, whilst maintaining an ideal size for group work and debates. We pride ourselves on our positive relationships with Sixth Formers and offer help, support and guidance throughout.
Questions will be drawn from Themes 1 and 4, and from local, national and global contexts.
Questions will be drawn from Themes 2 and 3, and from local, national and global contexts.
Questions will be drawn from local, national and global contexts
When studying A Level Business you will:
Develop transferable skills that support higher education study and the transition to employment, including numeracy and communication.
Students can progress from this qualication to:
A wide range of careers ranging from banking, sales, product management and general management to working in public sector organisations or charities.
The A level Business course at St Paul’s will enable you to develop a holistic understanding of business in a range of contexts and develop a critical understanding of organisations and their ability to meet society’s needs and wants.
The course will support you to generate enterprising and creative approaches to business opportunities, problems and issues.
Our dedicated teaching team have strong skills in getting the best out of students of all abilities. The teaching approaches include a variety of methods to encourage students to discuss, read and present their ideas in active and written forms. Teachers are accessible for support at all times so students are soon able to gain confidence in their new abilities and can mature with guidance.
Unit 3 Personal and Business Finance
The written exam will cover the purpose and importance of personal and business finance, including the skills and knowledge needed to understand, analyse and prepare financial information. This unit will provide a foundation for a number of other finance and business units and will help you to analyse profitability, liquidity and business efficiency. It will give you the knowledge and understanding to manage your personal finances and will give you a background to business finance and accounting as you progress to employment, training or University.
Unit 8 Recruitment and Selection
This unit gives you the opportunity to explore how the recruitment process is carried out in a business. You will get the opportunity to participate in selection interviews and review their performance. It will give you a foundation for progression to employment, for example in a human resources role, or to higher education.
The Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Business is an Applied General qualification. It is for post-16 learners who want to continue their education through applied learning and who aim to progress to higher education and ultimately to employment in the business sector. The qualification is equivalent in size to one A Level and aims to provide a coherent introduction to study of the business sector.
Business Studies as a subject is widely accepted at all Higher Education Institutions, and by employers as giving a good grounding in broad-based skills and understanding. It leads to almost any kind of employment opportunity. The study of Business Studies enables students to develop their understanding of issues facing the business world today, and how businesses can tackle these issues. Students gain essential transferrable skills, for example analysis, research and information processing that develop their ability to formulate arguments and communicate effectively both in Business and real life context.
Chemistry course prepares candidates to progress into further or higher education, to follow courses in chemistry, medicine, biochemistry, one of the other sciences or related subjects, or to enter employment where knowledge of chemistry would be useful. Study of AS or Advanced GCE Chemistry should also be seen as making a contribution towards life-long learning.
Chemistry has been a popular choice for many years, we have highly trained technicians who are invaluable for aiding every student through practical work. We pride ourselves on our positive relationships with Sixth Formers and offer help, support and guidance throughout. Good links with local industry and Universities has led many students to successful Summer placements, in the fields of chemistry and biochemistry.
Application beyond school: Studying Computer Science will equip you with technical and transferrable skills which are highly regarded by universities and employers, skills such as the ability to apply logic creatively and to problem solve. The ability to write computer programs is a valuable skill, not just if you are looking to undertake a degree in Computer Science, but also if you are considering a degree in a range of other subjects including Physics and Engineering. Computer Science can lead to a wide range of careers including as a programmer, software designer, software engineer or scientific researcher as well as in the fields of finance, business, government and teaching to name a few.
Computer Science is a practical subject where learners can apply the academic principles learned in the classroom to real world systems. It is an intensely creative subject that combines invention and excitement, which looks at the natural world through a digital prism. Teaching includes a variety of methods to encourage to problem solving, creative design and the development of effective analytical skills. You will be given problems to solve and tackling them will require resilience and perseverance. Teachers are accessible for support so students are soon able to gain confidence in their new abilities and can mature with guidance.
Topic 1: Materials
Topic 2: Performance characteristics of materials
Topic 3: Processes and techniques
Topic 4: Digital technologies
Topic 5: Factors influencing the development of products
Topic 6: Effects of technological developments
Topic 7: Potential hazards and risk assessment
Topic 8: Features of manufacturing industries
Topic 9: Designing for maintenance and the cleaner environment
Topic 10: Current legislation
Topic 11: Information handling, Modelling and forward planning
Topic 12: Further processes and techniques.
Students individually and/or in consultation with a client/end user identify a problem
and design context. Students will develop a range of potential solutions which include the use of computer aided design and evidence of modelling. Students will be expected to make decisions about the designing and development of the prototype in conjunction with the opinions of the client/end user. Students will realise one potential solution through practical making activities with
evidence of project management and plan for production.
Component 1: Principles of Design and Technology (Paper code: 9DT0/01)*
Written examination: 2 hours 30 minutes
50% of the qualification 120 marks
Component 2: Independent Design and Make Project (Paper code: 9DT0/02)
Non-examined assessment
50% of the qualification 120 marks
Design and Technology is increasingly recognised by employers and universities as an important qualification. The aim of the course is to enable students to gain a high level of expertise in the most transferable of all skills - problem solving. Delivery is through design led projects requiring the three dimensional solutions using resistant materials, systems and control. Students are given every opportunity to work with industry and local organisation providing them with the opportunity to use their initiative, time management skills and develop the ability to work independently. Design and Technology can set you up for a career in a wide variety of industries such as fashion, engineering, architecture, information technology and education. Popular careers for people with design and technology qualifications include: fashion designer, tailor, product designer, architect, software engineer, civil engineer, carpenter and chef.
Design and Technology is an Exciting subject which will build a wide range of skills that are transferrable to the “real world”. The Design and Technology Department’s A Level results are very good with students frequently gaining their highest grades in this subject area. Students’ performance is monitored closely through their personal project time plans enabling them to develop a partnership approach with their teachers towards study. Any problems are quickly identified, discussed and dealt with promptly. Students are encouraged to work in the department outside of timetabled lesson time when they can make good use of the excellent facilities and support from Design and Technology staff.
A minimum of two performances, one devised and one from a performance text studied during the course. One final written 3 hour exam exploring two set plays and a live theatre performance.
Drama is a lively subject and, in keeping with this, it is taught in an energetic, vibrant manner at St Paul’s. The teachers are extremely helpful and supportive of students, especially when they make the transition from GCSE to A Level. Students are encouraged to work collaboratively and expressively to explore a wide range of plays, issues and material as well as benefitting from regular theatre visits and regular viewing of live digital theatre.
Unit 1 - Exploring Language
Section A – Language under the microscope Section B – Writing about a topical issue Section C – Comparing and contrasting texts
Unit 2 - Dimensions of Linguistic Variation Section A – Child Language Acquisition
Section B – Language in the Media
Section C – Language Change
Unit 3 - Independent Language Research
Section A – Academic poster
Section B – Independent investigation of language
A Level
Unit 1: Exploring Language
Written examination - 2 hour and 30 minutes 40% of total A level
Unit 2: Dimensions of linguistic variation Written examination - 2 hour and 30 minutes 40% of total A level
Unit 3: Independent Language Research Coursework = 20% of A Level
The critical analysis and communication skills developed in an A Level in English Language are key academic and vocational skills that can be transferred to a wide range of courses and careers. English is regarded highly as a core subject for all University and College entries and will be beneficial for any Higher Education course. The study of English prepares students for a wide range of careers, such as law, journalism, publishing and teaching.
English Language is a dynamic subject and, in keeping with this, it is taught in a lively, vibrant manner at St Paul’s. Lessons are seminar style with plenty of discussion and opportunity for students to present ideas. There are a wide range of texts studied. In one week students could study such diverse texts as: a transcript from Made in Chelsea, a speech from Barack Obama, a programme from the BBC proms, an advert for Men’s Nutritional Products and a children’s story book. The teachers are subject specialists and are extremely helpful and supportive of students, especially when they make the transition from GCSE to A Level. Results are excellent and many students go on to read English at University
Introduction to Drama texts. Introduction to Literary study pre-1900.
Unit 1:
Section A: Shakespeare- Hamlet
Section B: Pre 1900 poetry - Christina Rossetti and A Doll’s House by Henrik Ibsen
Unit 2:
Section A: Close reading of a variety of Gothic texts.
Section B: Comparative and contextual study on the Gothic-The Bloody Chamber and Other Stories by Angela Carter and Frankenstein by Mary Shelley.
Unit 3:
Close reading or re creative writing piece with commentary.
Comparative essay.
Unit 2: Drama post 1900- A Streetcar Named Desire and Prose post 1900 - The Bloody Chamber and Other Stories.
A2 Unit 1:
Shakespeare and pre 1900 poetry + Drama text [closed book]
60 marks
Written exam paper - minutes.
50% of A level.
Unit 2: Comparative and contextual study [closed text].
60 marks.
Written exam paper: 2 hours 30 minutes. 50% of A level.
Unit 3: Literature post-1900 40 marks. Non examined assessment (coursework). 20% of total A level.
English Literature is a highly regarded A level with regard to university entry particularly the Russell group cluster. It is an excellent preparation for a wide range of professions particularly: Law, Teaching, Journalism, Publishing, Media/Creative industries and Marketing.
Our results are excellent and many students have gone on to study at their first choice university.
Students are taught by highly qualified and experienced staff who are passionate about the subject. Classes are taught seminar style with plenty of opportunity for discussion, research and create presentations. Marking and feedback on written work is thorough with self and peer assessment integral to learning. Extra curricula activities include theatre trips and writing workshops.
Fine Art is recognised by employers and Universities as a course that challenges the students creativity and problem-solving skills. As well as leading students in to a career within visual arts, it also opens doors for students to work and study in a variety of different fields. There are currently 2.8 million people in the UK employed in the visual arts. One in every 6 jobs in London is in the visual art’s field and more than half of those employed have a degree or higher qualification. It is a growing employment field with a 14% rise in jobs in the past 4 years.
The teaching at A’level at St Paul’s is far more personalised to you and your strengths. You will be in small classes and be guided through your studies with a huge amount of one to one support.
French Year 1 (Paper 1 ,2, 3)
Social issues and trends: evolving society
Changing family structures
Education
The world of work
Political, intellectual and artistic culture:
- music
- media
- festivals and traditions
Exam Requirements
Language study contributes to a broad general education and gives you invaluable practical and transferable skills for the future. In most careers nowadays language abilities are highly valued. You may choose to specialise in French/Spanish at university or combine your language with other subjects such as Engineering, History, Media and journalism, Management and Business Studies, Teaching, Fashion Design, Travel & Hospitality Management, Accountancy, European Studies, or International or European Law.
You will engage with stimulating texts, films and other materials in the original language, equip yourselves with transferable skills such as autonomy, resourcefulness, creativity and critical thinking. Improve your grasp of English, develop your ability to interact with users of the language in speech, writing and through online media. Mediate between cultures and between speakers of the language and speakers of English. Foster the ability to learn other languages
Component 1: Physical Geography
Section A: Water and carbon cycles
Section B: Coastal landscapes
Section C: Hazards
Component 2: Human Geography
Section B: Geographical fieldwork
Component 2: Human Geography
Section A: Global systems and global governance
Section C: Contemporary urban environments.
Component 3: Geography fieldwork investigation
Students complete a written investigation based on collected data. Individual investigation has to link to the specification.
Component 1: Physical Geography
Written exam: 2 hours 30 minutes
120 marks
40% of A-level
Component 2: Human Geography
Written exam: 2 hours 30 minutes
120 marks
40% of A-level
Component 3: Geography fieldwork investigation
3,000–4,000 words
60 marks
20% of A-level
marked by teachers
moderated by AQA
Geography is widely accepted at all Higher Education Institutions and by employees as giving a good grounding in broadly based skills and understanding. It leads to almost any kind of employment opportunity. Geography students will develop their written, mathematical and scientific skills whilst studying engaging content.
A-level Geography offers a natural progression from GCSE. Geography at St Paul’s is successful with a good record in results. Students receive in depth support and detailed feedback. Teaching includes a variety of teaching methods which develop key geographical skills. Teachers are available at all times and teacher student relationships are very positive.
A broad basis of study for the health and social care sector. This qualification is designed to support progression to higher education when taken as part of a programme of study that includes other appropriate BTEC Nationals or A Levels.
Health and Social Care at St Paul’s is a popular choice with outstanding results. Class sizes allow healthy discussions and debates and students enjoy researching the topics and putting their coursework together. Students are encouraged to use their independent study and research skills to get the most out of the subject. These skills are fundamental for success in BTEC Health & Social Care. A willingness to work hard, meet strict deadlines & a strong interest in the subject are essential.
Paper 1: Germany and West Germany, 1918-89 – Students learn about key political changes experienced in a unified Germany and then in West Germany after the Second World War, and the impacts of these changes on German economic, social and cultural developments.
Paper 2: The rise and fall of fascism in Italy, 1911-46 – Students will gain an in-depth understanding of the extent and nature of the profound political, economic and social changes experienced in the years 1911-46.
Paper 3: Britain: Losing and gaining an Empire, 1763-1914 - Explore the development of the British Empire and the part played in this by the Royal Navy and merchant marine. Students will also study a series of developments that started with an imperial catastrophe which threatened to reduce Britain once more to a European offshore island, but then would transform Britain’s standing in the world so that by the end of the period it had the largest empire the world has known.
Coursework: A controversy question based upon the government of Nazi Germany.
Paper 1 (30%)
Paper 2 (20%)
Paper 3 (30%)
Paper 4 (20%)
Hugely valued by universities due to the academic challenge it offers as well as skills that link to the legal profession, journalism and any number of highly rewarding careers.
Teachers who are passionate about the topics they teach, and who want their students to immerse themselves in the periods we study. A caring environment where every student has the best chance to achieve the very highest they possibly can.
Students need to complete a total of 360 Guided Learning Hours (GLH). Made up from the units below:
Unit 1 Information Technology System – 2hr external exam
Unit 2 Creating Systems to Manage Information – 10hr external assignment
Unit 3 Using Social Media in Business – internal assignment
Unit 6 Website Development – internal assignment
IT at St Paul’s is a popular choice with outstanding results.
Teaching includes a variety of methods to encourage problem solving, creative design and the development of effective analytical skills. Teachers are focused on each student’s performance and potential, providing support so students are soon able to gain confidence in their new abilities and can mature with guidance.
Component 1: Media products, Industries and Audiences
Written examination: 35%, 2hrs 15 min
Section A: This section assesses media language and representation in relation to advertising, marketing, music video and newspapers.
Section B: This section assesses knowledge and understanding of media industries, audiences, and context (historical, political, sociocultural, and economic) in relation to video games, radio, film, newspapers, advertising and marketing.
Component 3: Cross-Media Production
Non-examined assessment: 30% 12 weeks
This component synthesises knowledge and understanding gained throughout their course by requiring students to apply what they have learnt through practical production.
Students will create either a new television programme, an original music video, marketing for a new film, or print magazine
This specification provides a suitable foundation for the study of Media Studies or a related area on a range of higher education degree courses, for the next level of vocational qualifications, or for employment. In addition, the specification provides a coherent, engaging and culturally valuable course of study for learners who do not progress to further study in this subject.
Students will gain skills in: critical thinking, demonstrate skills of enquiry, decision-making and analysis
• demonstrate a critical approach to media issues
• demonstrate appreciation and critical understanding of the media and their role both historically and currently in society, culture, politics and the economy
• develop an understanding of the dynamic and changing relationships between media forms, products, industries and audiences.
• demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the global nature of the media.
• apply theoretical knowledge and specialist subject specific terminology to analyse and compare media products and the contexts in which they are produced and consumed
• make informed arguments, reach substantiated judgements and draw conclusions about media issues • engage in critical debate about academic theories used in media studies .
• appreciate how theoretical understanding supports practice and practice supports theoretical understanding.
• demonstrate sophisticated practical skills by providing opportunities for creative media production.
Media Studies is a well-equipped and enjoyable subject at St Paul’s and, in keeping with this, it is taught in a lively, vibrant manner. Lessons are full of discussion and opportunity for students to present ideas. There are always practical approached to learning and this lends itself to a creative and positive learning experience. Head of Media is a subject specialist and extremely helpful and supportive of students, especially when they make the transition from GCSE to A Level. Results are excellent and many students go on to study Media or related courses at University.
Subjects which compliment Media are: English, Drama, History, Business, Sociology, Psychology, Photography, and Religious Studies
Photography is recognised by employers and Universities as a course that challenges the students creativity and problem solving skills. As well as leading students in to a career within visual arts, it also opens doors for student to work and study in a variety of different fields. There are currently 2.8 million people in the UK employed in the Visual arts. 1 in every 6 jobs in London is in the visual art’s field and more than half of those employed have a degree or higher qualification. It is a growing employment field with a 14% rise in jobs in the past 4 years.
The teaching at A’level at St Paul’s is far more personalised to you and your strengths. You will be in small classes and be guided through your studies with a huge amount of one to one support.
Physical Education at St Paul’s is very successful with outstanding results. Classes are of a size which lends themselves to healthy discussion and research. Teachers are known to the students and are available at all times for both individual and group tuition. Students are encouraged to become independent thinkers and these skills are taught to them through their lessons. Students are also encouraged to take an active role in helping to coach younger age groups within the college. Physical Education is a complex subject that covers a wide range of areas. A willingness to work hard and a strong interest in the subject are essential.
NOTE: If you would like to study AS Physics you will also need to study AS Maths
Physics course prepares candidates to progress into further or higher education, to follow courses in physics, engineering, astronomy, IT subjects, medicine, one of the other sciences or related subjects, or to enter employment where knowledge of physics would be useful. Physics complements the study of maths. Study of AS or Advanced GCE physics should also be seen as making a contribution towards life-long learning.
Physics has been a popular choice for many years; we have highly trained technicians who are invaluable for aiding every student through practical work. We pride ourselves on our positive relationships with Sixth Formers and offer help, support and guidance throughout. Good links with local industry and Universities has led many students to successful Summer placements, in the fields of physics, chemistry and biochemistry.
Psychology is a widely accepted subject at all Higher Education Institutes and by employers. Psychology gives a good grounding in many skills and leads to a variety of job opportunities in the health sector, social welfare, advertising and marketing, personnel and education. Students will gain a good understanding of human behaviour and will improve their analytical skills, powers of observation and verbal communication skills.
· Follow a degree course in Psychology, Social Science, Medicine or Advertising
· Useful for careers in law, the police, education, social work, the media, management, human resources and medicine.
Psychology is a popular subject at St Paul’s and there is an excellent record of results.
The department supplies an array of resources, including a well stocked library, which students can use to aid their learning.
Students take responsibility for their own research by conducting their own psychological experiments. Teaching includes a variety of methods, with lessons often being discursive with lots of opportunity for student input. Trips to the Old Bailey Criminal Court are also important elements of the course. If you’re interested in understanding others and the world around you, then Psychology is the subject for you.
Year 12 Ethics: 4 units of study.
Utilitarianism, Situation Ethics, Natural Law and Ethical Thought.
Year 12 Christianity: 4 units of study
Religious Figures & Sacred Texts, Religious Concepts, Religious life and Religious Practices that Shape Religious Identity.
Year 12 Philosophy: 4 units of study.
Arguments for the Existence of God (Inductive), Argument for the Existence of God (Deductive) , Challenges to Religious Belief – Evil and Suffering & Religious Experience.
Year 13 Ethics: 3 units of study.
Determinism, Free Will & Libertarianism, Natural Law (continued from Yr12) & Ethical Thought (continued from Yr11).
Year 13 Christianity: 4 units of study which are broken into 2 sub-topics only.
Significant social and historical developments in religious thought, Knowledge and understanding of religion and belief and
Year 13 Philosophy: 4 units of study.
Challenges to Religious Belief, Religious Experience (Continued from Year 12), Religious Language & Religious Language (Continued)
Check out the Eduqas website to see the exam specification in more detail.
You will be examined at the end of Year 13 only. This will consist of 3 separate papers; 1 per component of study which is 2 hours long each.
Each paper is out of 100 marks; you will answer 2 AO1 style exam answers and 2 AO2 essay style answers.
You will be tested on the skills of understanding, subject recall and evaluation.
With a qualification in Religious Studies, you could go on to Higher Education, at college or university. The skills developed in Religious Studies could be particularly useful for careers in law, education, social work, politics, medicine, administration or the media.
Religious Studies here at St Pauls has a good track record. If you have a questioning mind or are very opinionated and like to use your skills of expression then this is the subject for you! The course is taught by enthusiastic staff that have developed excellent learning environments, where all are challenged and supported in the task of attaining A level standards. Religious Studies gives you the opportunity to study some of the fundamental questions which people have always asked about life:
Are we truly free? Why are we here? How should we behave? What happens to us when we die?
Research methods and researching social inequalities
Understanding social inequalities
Sociology graduates are found in a wide range of occupations: Many sociology graduates are attracted to careers that centre on the challenges and demands that members of a society face. This leads to jobs in social services, education, criminal justice, welfare services, government, counselling, charities and the voluntary sector. They include charity fundraiser, community development worker, counsellor, lecturer, housing officer, teacher, probation officer, social researcher, social worker and welfare rights adviser. There are a range of specific abilities and skills associated with a degree in sociology but there are also wider transferable skills that you can develop.
Sociology is a popular subject at St Paul’s and the students enjoy the lessons. Sociology is the study of societies and unlike other disciplines, it looks at how people live, behave and work together in groups. It asks questions about the world that we live in and tries to explain why it is the way it is.
It is a fascinating subject and will allow the you the opportunity to discuss and research a variety of topics of interest such as crime, family and youth subculture. In other words every day subjects which play a part in everyone's lives.
BTEC Sport at St Paul’s is a popular choice with outstanding results. Class sizes allow healthy discussions and debates and students enjoy researching the topics and putting their coursework together. Students are encouraged to use their independent thinking and enquiry to get the most out of the subject. These skills are fundamental for success in BTEC Sport. A willingness to work hard, meet strict deadlines & a strong interest in the subject are essential. Students will be given the opportunity to assess their own fitness levels through the Unit externally moderated by Pearson.