Sixth form prospectus_main_2010

Contents
BUSINESS STUDIES DESIGN &
ENGLISH
& ICT TECHNOLOGY

GENERAL STUDIES HUMANITIES MATHEMATICS

MODERN FOREIGN PERFORMING ARTS SCIENCE
LANGUAGES

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Welcome

With currently over 350 students, The Arthur Terry Sixth Form About Us
is one of the West Midlands’ largest school based sixth
forms. It is the normal progression route for over two thirds The Sixth Form Team currently

of our Year 11 students each year. We have applications for consists of :

places from external students also, from across Birmingham Mr N Bowater - Director of the Sixth
and South Staffordshire. Our Average Points Score in 2008 Form / Assistant Headteacher

ranked us as the highest performing non-selective or private Mr J R Townsend - Post-16
school in Birmingham; we are particularly proud of our recent Admissions Coordinator

Ofsted report which stated “The overall effectiveness of the Mrs P Davies - Sixth Form Secretary
sixth form is outstanding” and “students make outstanding Mrs V Aspinall - Post-16 Study
progress because of the excellent education they receive” Support Assistant

Mrs A Gambles – Post 16 Study
The Sixth Form now offers over 30 A Level and/ or Applied subjects. This
Support Assistant
increased provision will enable students to choose subjects that complement
a range of progression routes; opening up more opportunities when selecting
higher education courses and at the same time preparing students for the world
of work. Curriculum provision is reviewed each year with our most recent new All staff have considerable expertise in

subjects being Economics, Law, Food Technology, BTEC Retail and Textiles. The providing support, information, advice

possibility of offering AS Level Environmental Studies next year is currently being and guidance and they are permanently
investigated and we are also researching how the introduction of the Extended available for students in the Sixth Form
Project and the International Baccalaureate could benefit our students. Centre.

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“
The Arthur Terry School has recently undergone a
complete rebuild which has replaced the majority of the The overall
old school with state of the art facilities.
effectiveness of
The Sixth Form benefits directly from:
the sixth form is

”
• Classrooms installed with digital projectors and audio-visual facilities
• A well equipped Library / Learning Resource Centre
• Music Technology Suites, Recording Studio and Practice Rooms
outstanding
OFSTED 2009
• Air Conditioned ICT Rooms
• Spacious and expertly designed Art Rooms, Science Labs and Technology
Workshops Financial Support
• Sports Hall, Gymnasium, Fitness Centre, Dance Studio, All-weather pitch,
Educational
Drama Studios
• Sixth Form Centre, Quiet Study Room, Mezzanine refreshment area.
Maintenance
Allowance (EMA)
Educational Maintenance Allowance
Information, Advice and Guidance is a weekly payment of upto £30 that
is paid directly into a student’s bank
Over 90% of our sixth formers apply to higher education and they are very well
account. The payment is only paid
served by a comprehensive Information, Advice and Guidance programme
if you have an excellent attendance
which begins in Year 12. All students attend an Enrichment Day in June to begin
record and perform well in your AS/
the process of identifying an appropriate University Course or Career Path. The
A2 subjects. The EMA is designed
Post-16 Admissions Co-ordinator interviews students individually about university
to help you with cost of books,
and career choices and leads tutors in the completion of UCAS applications
equipment, travel that you may incur
and academic references. All students are encouraged to attend university
as part of your AS/A2 courses.
Open Days and all Year 12 students attend a higher education fair at one of the
universities in Birmingham. A number of our most able students are encouraged If you have any questions in relation
to apply for Oxford and Cambridge, Medicine, Veterinary Science, Dentistry and to the EMA, Mrs Gambles (Study
Law. Students who do not want to go to university or wish to take an alternative Support Assistant) will provide any
career route are supported through the Connexions service and a programme of help that is required.
outside speakers to provide students with careers information.

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“ Students make Links with Parents
The part that parents play in encouraging and motivating students cannot be
outstanding understated, and there are a number of methods used for keeping parents
informed of their son/daughter’s progress and attendance throughout the year.
progress There will be two interim reports and one full report that provide information on
student progress and targets for improvement in each subject area. There will be

because of a Parent’s Evening where parents will have the opportunity to discuss progress
with each subject teacher. In addition to these formal links, subject teachers

the excellent and tutors are always available by prior arrangement to discuss the progress of
individual students.

education they
receive

” OFSTED 2009

The Vertical Tutoring
System
Each student is allocated a Personal
Tutor who will support their academic Admissions
and personal development. The
There is a rigorous application process for all students who wish to join Arthur
Personal Tutor is the first point of
Terry Sixth Form. The process begins with an initial Sixth Form Open Evening
contact regarding each student’s
in November where students will have the opportunity to collect the Sixth Form
progress. Students will meet with
Prospectus and find out more information about the subjects they would like to
the Tutor every morning as part of
study at Advanced level. All applicants will then need to submit an application
a Vertical Tutor Group which will
form by the published deadline.
include approximately 22 students
from across Year groups 7-13. Every Our internal applicants are interviewed from January about their preferred
Personal Tutor is supported by an options, when advice is given by the Director of Sixth Form and the post-16
Achievement Coordinator and a Admissions Officer about careers and university courses. External applicants
Head of School who all work together are, upon receipt of satisfactory references, interviewed by the Director of
to ensure that all students reach their Sixth Form and other members of the Leadership group during the spring
full potential. The Director of Sixth term. Successful applicants will then receive a conditional offer (see entry
Form works closely with the Heads requirements) by letter. Applicants who haven’t been successful will also be
of School, Achievement Coordinators notified by letter.
and Tutors to ensure the programmes
of study for Years 12 and 13 are Two Induction Days are held during the first week of July for all students who
appropriate and provides an overall have received a conditional offer. This is an opportunity to experience a taster
Post 16 perspective that is so vital for lesson in your four chosen AS subjects and to begin to adjust to a new way of
the school. thinking and learning.

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On receipt of GCSE examination results in August, students
Choosing the Right Subjects
who meet the conditions of their offer will automatically
start their courses in September. Students who do not meet In choosing your A-level subjects the best general advice is
the conditions of their offer will not be able to join the Sixth to pick those that you like and are good at, so that you will
Form in September and this will be confirmed in writing. play to your subject strengths. However, do note that some
degree courses and occupations require you to have taken
*Please be aware that any application, and subsequent certain subjects at A-Level. If you know what degree you
offer, of a place at Arthur Terry Sixth Form does not want to take or occupation you want to go in to, then you
guarantee any younger siblings, (brothers or sisters) a should check that you are taking the right combination of
place at our school. subjects before you make your final choices.

Arthur Terry School is full to its admission number in all Look carefully at the subject descriptions and at the Goes
year groups and to admit pupils above the admission well with . . . section. It is possible to take a combination
number would prejudice the provision of efficient use of subjects that are interconnected and your choice could
of resources and the efficient education for the existing start a useful vocational specialisation, leading to degrees
pupils on roll. in technology and engineering, creative design, business
administration and so on.
If you wish to pursue a place for any younger children
you have the right to appeal and advise that this No university will require more than three A-Levels, but
correspondence will be brought to the attention of the some universities are particularly keen that students have a
independent Appeals Panel. fourth AS-Level. Some universities like students to choose a
fourth subject that is significantly different to the other three,
for example, Maths, Physics, Chemistry - plus Art or Music
For admissions enquiries please contact the Sixth
or English Literature, to encourage breadth, while others
Form Centre :
like you to choose subjects that form a natural and related
group. On the other hand, you should not choose subjects
Telephone (Sixth Form Centre) : 0121 323 1167
where there is too much overlap, as this could affect your
Email : pdavies@arthurterry.bham.sch.uk
UCAS points total. Therefore, you may have to do some
Fax (School) : 0121 308 8033
checking before settling on your choices.

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We offer a number of Applied A-Levels - Business Studies, students to be “leaders of learning” within the whole
Health & Social Care, ICT and Leisure. These have exactly school community and we will determine through
the same worth as the GCE A-Levels: universities accept references and interview if you have demonstrated the
them on exactly the same basis and they have the same necessary skills and abilities throughout KS4 to fulfil
UCAS grade and points weighting. Applied A-Levels have this role.
more coursework components and fewer end of unit exams.
Depending on your preferred learning style, you may opt for
this approach to advanced level work. Enrichment
The Enrichment Programme, together with the many extra-
Entry Requirements curricular options available in the school, provides all Year
12 and 13 students with opportunities to complement their
The minimum entry requirement to get on to a full advanced
main programme of study and for personal development.
level programme at The Arthur Terry Sixth Form is 5
Drama and music have a high a particularly high profile in
GCSE grades at A* - C including English and Maths. We
the school and Sixth Form students regularly take leading
would also normally expect you to have at least a grade
roles. Students can pursue sporting interests and complete
C at GCSE, where taken, in the subject or course you
the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme up to Gold. Students
wish to take at advanced level. Where the GCSE has not
are encouraged to take responsibility in the school; they
been taken the Core and/or a related GCSE will be used
supervise at lunchtimes and work alongside tutors and
to determine suitability. In addition, due to the academic
subject teachers offering in-class and other support.
demands of some subjects, special entry requirements will
Students willingly volunteer their services to help out with a
apply. Further detail regarding any special requirements will
range of school events: parents’ evenings, open evenings,
be provided at the Sixth Form Open Evening and during
induction days for younger pupils and prospective Sixth
interview. Be careful about opting for more than one subject
Form Students. Support of pupils in the lower school is
that is completely new, as this can put you under a lot of
central to the role of Sixth Form students at Arthur Terry
pressure to adjust to too much that is unfamiliar.
with the introduction of vertical tutoring. Younger students
As well as 5 GCSE grades A* - C (including English and do look up to Sixth Form students so it is important they
Maths), there is a further entrance test for our Sixth present the highest standards of dress, behaviour and
Form which you will be sitting throughout Key Stage respect and are Leaders of Learning within the school.
4; it’s a test of good social behaviour and commitment Sixth Form students will contribute to the Vertical Tutor
to academic study. Make sure you pass this test by group sessions each morning by leading activities,
showing a consistent effort in both areas throughout coaching students and providing support for their personal
your studies in Key Stage 4. We expect our sixth form tutor.

The Enrichment Programme includes:
• Arts Award • pen University Young Applicants in
O
Schools Scheme
• Arthur Terry Radio
• Orchestra, School Show, Senior Choir
• Duke of Edinburgh Award
• Sports Leadership Award
• The Extended Project, In-Class Support • Sports Teams

• Life Coaching • Volunteer Work

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International Baccalaureate Diploma

Arthur Terry School is a candidate school for the IB Diploma Programme. We are
pursuing authorisation as an IB World School. These are schools that share a common
philosophy—a commitment to high quality, challenging, international education that we
believe is important for our students.
Only schools authorised by the International Baccalaureate (IB) as IB World Schools can offer any of
its three academic programmes : the Primary Years Programme (PYP), the Middle Years Programme
(MYP), or the Diploma Programme. Candidate status gives no guarantee that authorisation will be
granted.

The International Baccalaureate programme at Arthur Terry School will ensure
Theory of Knowledge
that we have a curriculum provision that stretches the capabilities of all students.
It is a two-year course which is an alternative to our A level courses to give (ToK)
students as broad a choice as possible post 16. The interdisciplinary ToK course is
It leads to a qualification that is widely recognised by the world’s leading designed to provide coherence by
universities and it challenges students to become well rounded individuals ready exploring the nature of knowledge
for the wider world. across disciplines, encouraging
an appreciation of other cultural
perspectives. Essentially, this course
Course Outline Language A1
offers the opportunity for reflecting
Students on the Group 1 on the knowledge acquired in all of
International Baccalaureate Second Individuals the 6 chosen subjects. Students must
language Group 2 Group 3 and Societies
Diploma Programme study experience a minimum of 100 hours
six subjects selected CORE across the 2 year course.
from the subject groups. REQUIREMENTS
Normally three subjects
are studied at Higher Level
Experimental
sciences
Group 4 Group 5 Mathematics
and computer Creativity, Action,
Service (CAS)
science

(courses representing 240 Group 6

teaching hours), and the Participation in the Academy’s CAS
The Arts
remaining three subjects programme encourages students
are studied at Standard
to be involved in artistic pursuits,
Level (courses representing 150 teaching hours). Students must also follow all
sports and community service work,
three of the core elements: Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge and Creativity,
thus fostering students’ awareness
Action, Service. These are compulsory and are central to the philosophy of the
and appreciation of life outside the
Diploma Programme.
academic arena. This can be offered
in a number of ways however, one

What are the three core requirements ? model would be students following
the CAS programme for ½ day a
It is a requirement of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme that all week for the duration of their Sixth
students must complete the following core elements: Form studies. We would expect a
minimum of 150 hours to be devoted
to these activities during the course.
Extended Essay
The Extended Essay has a prescribed limit of 4,000 words. It offers the
opportunity to investigate a topic of individual interest, and acquaints students
What subjects will
with the independent research and writing skills expected at university. A student we offer?
will be allocated a supervisor and we will offer students a course in research There are three core subject areas
and referencing skills. In schools around the world this piece of work is usually that all IB students are required to
completed between Years 12 and 13.

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study either at Higher or Standard
External assessment
Level.
Examinations form the basis of the assessment for most courses because of
Group 1 Language A1: English. This

11
their high levels of objectivity and reliability. They include : essays, structured
is the study of literature in a student’s problems, short-response questions , data-response questions, text-response
first language. questions, case-study questions, multiple-choice questions (limited use of these).

Group 2 Second Language: A

20
There are also a small number of other externally assessed pieces of work, for
Modern Foreign Language from
example, theory of knowledge essays, extended essays and world literature
French, German and Spanish.
assignments. These are completed by students over an extended period under
This is designed to promote the
teacher supervision instead of examination conditions, and are then marked by
understanding of another culture
external examiners.
through the study of a second

BER
language.
Internal assessment
Group 5 Mathematics
Teacher assessment is also used for most courses. This includes: oral work
in languages , fieldwork in geography, laboratory work in the sciences,
Students are then required to choose
investigations in mathematics, artistic performances.
3 subjects from the following groups:
Group 3 Individuals and Societies: Assessments are checked by external examiners and normally contribute
Business and Management, between 20 and 30 per cent of the total mark.
Geography, Psychology.

Group 4 Experimental Sciences:
Biology, Chemistry, Physics.

Group 6 The Arts: Music, Theatre,
Visual Arts.
TEM
Some of the arts courses, for example, music, theatre arts and visual arts, have
assessment of a major practical component, which can account for as much as
50 per cent of the total mark.

The IB Diploma only has terminal exams; no course is modular. These exams
are in the first weeks of May of the second year (Year 13). The maximum time for
Group 6 subjects are optional
SEP
HL subjects is 5 hours of exams, and for SL subjects, 3 hours. All groups of the
and students can choose another Diploma have internal assessment (coursework) which is between 20-50% of the
subject from any group or Computer final score. The results are published in July.
Science which is offered as an
additional optional subject. In each subject students can gain a score of 1 (lowest) to 7 (highest). The
maximum for the six subjects is then 6 x 7 = 42 points. There are up to an extra
In total then, students will study 3 3 points for both the TOK assessed work (one 1200 word essay and a 10 minute
subjects at Higher Level (HL) and 3 presentation) and the Extended Essay (4000 words) together. So the maximum
subjects at Standard Level (SL) score in a Diploma is 45 points. Usually 24 points gains you a Diploma. Six
FOR

The IB curriculum and timetable month retakes are possible in November.
will be constructed following the
submission of applications from Specific Entry Requirements
students. We will endeavour to meet
The IB Diploma programme may interest you if any of these apply to you :
the subject requirements of the vast
You are undecided on your final subject choice at university; you wish to maintain
majority of students, however there
the study of a broad range of subjects; you are considering going overseas to
may be some subject combinations
study or to work; you want a broad-based international education; you are keen
that may not be offered due to
to challenge yourself mentally and physically and to contribute to the whole-
NEW

timetable restrictions.
school community.
You will be a student who achieves a minimum of 8 A*-C grades and you will
also be expected to achieve an A or A* grade in the 3 subjects that you study
How is the IB at Higher Level and a minimum of a grade B in the subjects that you study at
Diploma Programme Standard Level.

assessed? Further advice
More detail can be found in the IB Prospectus.
A variety of different methods
Or contact:
are used to measure student
Mr N Bowater, IB Coordinator Designate
achievement against the objectives
Email nbowater@arthurterry.bham.sch.uk
for each course:

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Business Studies AQA & Applied Business Exam Board: OCR

We offer two alternative Business Studies Courses. Both deal with all aspects of
business described, but you need to decide which type of learning and assessment best
suits you. Both courses have exactly the same worth as an A-Level.

The choice is either a 2 year BTEC Business course, in Core Unit 1 Exploring Business Activity
which 100% of the course is internally assessed through (Coursework 1/6 of award)
a portfolio of coursework (marked by teachers and This unit is designed to introduce learners to a wide range
moderated by the exam board); Business Studies AS (1st of business activities.
year ) and A2 (2nd year) is assessed through traditional
examinations with no coursework. Core Unit 2 Investigating Business Resources
(Coursework 1/6 of award)
Course outline This unit considers the importance of the day-to-day
Business deals with the internal and external influences on requirements to the business of suitable staff working well
the behaviour and structure of an organisation. In addition in appropriate teams and departments as well as physical
it considers things like responsibilities to the community, and technological resources.
the consumer, the government and its employees. It equips
you with the necessary skills knowledge and techniques Core Unit 3 Introduction to Marketing
to make effective business decisions. The subject stays (Coursework 1/6 of award)
relevant by investigating major topical issues that can This unit will introduce learners to the tools and techniques
generate change for business organisations and the ways used in the modern marketing industry to achieve business
in which businesses respond to these issues. A broad objectives by meeting the customer’s needs and expectations.
range of topics is covered, including aspects of accounts,
economics, management studies, human resources, Core Unit 4 Effective People, Communication and
marketing, industrial relations and business law. Information
(Coursework 1/6 of award)
This unit learners explore how this process starts by
Edexcel Level 3 BTEC National Award in Business organisations selecting, recruiting and employing the
most qualified, skilled and experienced people. Staff
This course will be delivered over a 2 year programme and must possess good verbal and written skills in order to
therefore students will only receive any accreditation at the communicate and share information. The ability to decide
end of the 2 years. The BTEC National Award in Business on the correct method for communicating different forms of
consists of four core units plus two specialist units. Each of information is necessary for the maximum effect.
the 6 units carries equal weighting towards the final Level 3
qualification. Students receive a Distinction (Grade A Students will study 2 further units
equivalent), Merit (Grade C equivalent), Pass (Grade E (worth 1/3 of the award) that will be selected by the
equivalent) for the portfolio work that they submit over the Business Studies Department during the next academic
course of the award. year.

1

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A-Level Business Studies Course Outline in the strategic management of businesses, for example,
leadership and corporate culture.
AS Unit 1: Planning and Financing a Business
(1 hour 15 min exam: 40% of AS, 20% of A-Level) Goes well with…
This unit provides an introduction to the scope of Business Business encourages you to develop a range of
Studies within the context of starting a new business. You important and transferable skills such as:
will be expected to have an understanding of the range
of activities involved in setting up a small business. You • data skills – you will be expected to manipulate data in a
will also gain an understanding of key financial concepts variety of forms and to interpret their results
essential for the planning of small businesses and be • presenting arguments and making judgments and
expected to carry out calculations and interpret their justified recommendations on the basis of the
results. available evidence
• recognising the nature of problems, solving problems
AS Unit 2: Managing a Business
and making decisions using appropriate
(1 hour 30 min exam: 60% of AS, 30% of A-Level)
business tools and methods
This unit covers four key areas of marketing, finance,
human resources and operations. You will gain an • planning work, taking into account the demands of the
understanding on the ways to make each area of a task and the time available to complete it
business more effective and learn the strategies used to • conducting research into a specific theme in preparation
ensure and integrated approach to business. for one or more tasks
• challenging your own assumptions using evidence that
A2 Unit 3: Strategies for Success has become available.
(1 hour 45 min exam: 25% of A-Level)
In this unit you will study the mechanisms for setting
objectives, measuring performance and devising strategies. With these points in mind, it can be argued that
Business will go well with almost all other A-Level subjects,
as at least some aspect of the course will be relevant.
A2 Unit 4: The Business Environment and
Managing Change For advice
Contact Mr M Birch
This unit considers the relationship between businesses
and external factors. It examines how external factors can
Email
impact upon businesses, and the responses they may take.
mbirch@arthurterry.bham.sch.uk
It also examines a number of themes which are important

Careers and Higher Education
Traditionally, a very high proportion of students studying a Business A-Level go on to study some form of Business degree
at university. Either of these courses will offer a fantastic foundation for that. The broad skills base required by Business also
supports a wide range of other subjects when progressing to degree level. Business is widely recognised by industry, and a
number of students each year will use their A-Levels to get a job. Both courses provide practical knowledge and application of
skills for the work place. In recent years a number of students have used their knowledge to begin their own business ventures
and while this is not common place it is clearly a route of progression.

Tel 0121 323 2221 Web www.arthurterry.bham.sch.uk
2

213812 TEXT.indd 10 05/08/2010 11:52

Economics Exam Board: AQA

Throughout the course of study you are encouraged to develop a critical understanding
of economic concepts and the theories through awareness of current economic issues,
institutions and problems that affect everyday life. You will develop and apply your
understanding of different aspects of economics that are of relevance in today’s complex
global economy. This course also has significance for fostering a better appreciation of
contemporary economic issues in the UK economy.

Course Outline History and any of the Social
Sciences. Economics combined
AS Unit 1: Markets and with Mathematics could lead to
Market Failure Accountancy or a finance related
(1 hour 15 min exam: 50% of AS, degree course. Please note that there
25% of A-Level) is a small degree of overlap between
You will explore the basic the content of this A-Level and that
economic problem, how resources are of Applied Business. Generally
allocated, how markets can become speaking, universities do not like
efficient, the causes of market failure subjects to overlap. You should take
and how and why the Government this into consideration if you are
intervenes. looking at both of these subjects.

AS Unit 2: The National For advice
Economy Contact Mr M Birch
(1 hour 15 min exam: 50% of AS, 25
% of A-Level) Email
You will learn about macro mbirch@arthurterry.bham.sch.uk
economics and how the economy
works as a whole, and the economic
performance of the UK,
including investigating things such
as inflation, economic growth and
unemployment.

A2 Unit 3: Business Economics
and the Distribution of Income
(2 hour exam: 25% of A-Level)
You will investigate a wide range
of markets and applying economic
thinking to them.

A2 Unit 4: The National and
International Economy
You will look at ways to manage
the economy and investigate
international economies and make
appropriate comparisons.

Goes well with…
Subjects which would go well
with Economics are Geography,

The course provides a suitable foundation for the study of economics or related courses in higher education. Equally there are
suitable for candidates intending to pursue business careers or further study in business studies or social sciences or as part
of a course of general education.

3

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ICT Exam Board: OCR

The course offers you a fantastic opportunity to develop an understanding of the
fundamentals of ICT and develop the knowledge and skills that will allow you to
participate in an evolving information and communications based society. You will also be
able to develop your inter-personal, technical, academic and communication skills which
will help you to meet career challenges in the future.

Course Outline solve a client driven problem. It
will cover the system lifecycle
AS Unit 1: Information, Systems consisting of the following: analysis,
and Applications design, implementation, testing,
(2 hour exam: 60% of AS, 30% of documentation and evaluation.
A-Level)
This unit covers the fundamental Goes well with . . .
knowledge required to support ICT compliments just about all other
all subsequent units of study. It is subjects but goes especially well
intended to provide candidates with Business Studies and Leisure.
with a deeper understanding and
knowledge of basic concepts of ICT. For advice
This unit is assessed by an external Contact Mr D Tracey
examination and covers the use of
information, hardware, software, Email
information systems and the impact dtracey@arthurterry.bham.sch.uk
of ICT.

AS Unit 2: Structured ICT Tasks
(Coursework: 40% of AS, 20% of
A-Level)
This unit is designed to develop
practical aspects of the subject. A
set of structured tasks give you the
opportunity to develop your design,
software development, testing
and documentation skills. Tasks
may involve the design of part of a
system, the production of a testing
strategy or the use of software for
development.

A2 Unit 3: ICT Systems,
Applications and Implications
This module covers communication
between computers and interaction
between humans and computers.
A range of other information and
communications technologies are
also covered. You will be introduced
to the design and selection of ICT
solutions for a range of problems.

A2 Unit 4: ICT Project
(Coursework: 20% of A-Level)
In this unit you will complete an
ICT based project in order to

A good grade in ICT is sufficient for entry into higher education or a wide range of careers. These include ICT Product
Developer, Multimedia/Website Designer, Software Developer/Programmer.

4

213812 TEXT.indd 12 05/08/2010 11:52

Leisure Studies Exam Board: AQA

Over the past few decades recreation and leisure have become increasingly important
in our lives: the working week may have shortened, giving extra leisure time, whilst
pressure of work may have become more intense, thus requiring us to seek leisure
activities where and when we can find the time and in many diverse ways. A huge
leisure industry has developed to meet our needs. Through this course you will:
• ain a broad understanding of what Leisure and Recreation and be able to study
g
selected areas in more depth
• evelop skills, that are particularly relevant to work in the Leisure Industry
d
• ave an opportunity to apply learning in a practical and relevant way
h

Course outline A2 Unit 6: Current Issues
(Coursework: 162/3% of A-Level)
AS Unit 1: The Leisure Industry Today This unit is a research based project that allows you to
(Coursework: 331/3% of AS) examine one topic in depth either at local or national
In this unit you will investigate the range and scale of the level. You can study an area of leisure you are particularly
Leisure Industry in the UK and Europe and study the key interested in although the module is synoptic and will
factors that influence access, participation and the barriers demonstrate understanding from a broad range of key
in leisure. There is a focus on the current developments topics within Leisure.
within the leisure industry which includes a study of the role
of the media in influencing the dynamics of leisure.

AS Unit 2: A People Business
(External Assignment 6 hours: 331/3% of AS)
This unit studies the importance of customer service in the
leisure industry and the key factors that influence the quality
of the service received. Customer needs and expectations
are explored as are the ways in which technology is used to
support the leisure industry.

AS Unit 3: Getting It Right in the Leisure Industry
(Coursework: 331/3% of AS)
You will investigate ways to ensure sufficient quality control
and management systems are in place and have an
understanding of the safe working practices required in the
leisure industry.
Goes well with . . .
A2 Unit 4: Leisure in Action The course will go well with Business because it is in some
(Coursework: 162/3% of A-Level) respects a business course applied to the Leisure industry.
This is a very practical unit of work which requires you Leisure also goes well with PE and Geography. The skills
to plan, prepare and run a leisure based event. You will required for successful completion of the course are
become familiar with all aspects of event management and also likely to help with all A-Level courses. Presentation,
will carry out feasibility studies, produce a business plan research, analysis, data management, and report writing
and ensure the smooth running of the event itself. are all skills found in Applied Leisure which could be used
in other subjects.
A2 Unit 5: Working in the People Business
(2 hour exam: 162/3% of A-Level) For advice
In this unit you will learn about the range of employment Contact Mr M Birch
opportunities in the leisure industry, the types of
motivational techniques used as well as the recruitment and Email
selection process commonly found in the leisure industry. mbirch@arthurterry.bham.sch.uk

The course can lead to a university degree in Business, Sports Science, Recreation and Leisure Studies, Recreational
Management, Armed Forces, Environmental Studies, Hospitality and Events Management, or it can lead directly into a job in
one of these employment sectors.

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Food Technology Exam Board: AQA

At AS you will have the opportunity to study nutrition and design and making in the
human context. Knowledge of food science and of a wide range of materials and
components used in the making of food products will be developed. You will be given
the opportunity to develop and solve a problem relating to food design and making.
You will gain an understanding of industrial and commercial practices within the area of
Food Technology. At A2, the specification offers you the opportunity to further develop
the knowledge and practical skills from the AS. You will continue to develop design
work alongside an understanding of food science, processes and commercial food
manufacture. The AS and A2 course are taught through 3 main sections : Materials,
Components and Application, Design and Market Influences and Processes and
Manufacture.
Course outline AS Unit 2: Coursework
(50% of AS; 25% of A-Level)
AS Unit 1: Topics
(2 hour exam: 50% of AS, 25% of A-Level) A2 Unit 3: Topics
• Macro and micro nutrients, measurement of energy and (2 hour exam: 25% of A-Level)
the importance of adequate water intake • The physical and chemical structures of the macro
• Dietary planning, BMI and health and health promotion nutrients

• The relationships between diet and health • Working characteristics in relation to the physical and
sensory attributes of the food
• Social factors: the family, family patterns, family lifecycle,
changes in family composition, culture economics and • The nutritional composition of food
work • Manipulating and combining food materials and
• Dietary needs of individuals at different life stages, components and the application of this in food
special diets and lifestyles processing and product development

• Food additives • The beneficial and detrimental effect of micro organisms
and enzymes
• Environmental factors influencing food choices; organic
food and sources of energy • Issues affecting the design of new products

• Mass media; advertising, television, magazines and the • Design in practice
press • Preservation methods and extending shell-life; quality
• Issues affecting the design of new food products assurance and quality control

• Food safety and hygiene, food labelling and nutritional • Legislation
information • Systems and control
• Health and Safety
A2 Unit 4: Coursework
(25% of A-Level)

Food Technology A-Level will complement other A-Levels
such as Biology, Chemistry, PE and Health & Social Care

For advice
Contact Mrs S Hemmings

Email
shemmings@arthurterry.bham.sch.uk

There are obviously a wide selection of degree and vocational courses on offer that will extend the learning in this area. Career
options in the food industry include roles within:-
• Enforcement Agencies such as Environmental Health, Trading Standards and Food Safety
• Product Development and Manufacture incorporating Quality Control and New Product Training
• Food Science and Microbiology
• Hospitality, Catering and Retail

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Product Design Exam Board: EDEXCEL

At AS you will be developing your knowledge, understanding, skills and application for
designing products. Product design covers a wide range of design disciplines but is
firmly rooted in the skills required to design and make high quality products. Products
that are fit for purpose, satisfy wants and needs, enhance our day-to-day lives and,
most importantly, give you the opportunity to demonstrate your design and technology
capability.
Course Outline

AS Unit 1: Portfolio of Creative past which may provide inspiration
Skills for future design. It is increasingly
(Portfolio of work: 60% of AS, 30% of important that students develop an
A-Level) awareness of the impact of design
In this unit students are given the and technological activities on the
opportunity to develop their creative, environment. Sustainable product
technical and practical skills through design is a key feature of modern
a series of product investigation, design practices.
design and manufacturing activities.
A2 Unit 4: Commercial Design
AS Unit 2: Design and (Product and Design Folder : 30% of
Technology in Practice A-level )
(1 hour 30 min exam: 40% of AS, 20 In this unit students are given the
% of A-level) opportunity to apply the skills they
In this unit students will develop have acquired and developed
a knowledge and understanding throughout this course of study,
of a wide range of materials and to design and make a product of
processes used in the field of design their choice that comply with the
and technology. It is important for requirements of either a resistant
students, as designers, to learn materials technology product or a
about materials and processes so graphic products, depending on the
that they can develop a greater route they are studying.
understanding of how products can
be designed and manufactured. Goes well with . . .
Maths, Science, Art and Textiles
Students will also learn about and will compliment other A-levels
industrial and commercial practices, such as Food Technology, Business
and the importance of quality checks studies and Retail.
and the health and safety issues that
have to be considered at all times. For advice
Contact Mr S Canty
A2 Unit 3: Designing for the Email
Future scanty@arthurterry.bham.sch.uk
(2 hour exam: 20% of A-level)
In this unit students will develop
their knowledge and understanding
of a range of modern design and
manufacturing practices and
contemporary design issues.
The modern designer must have
a good working knowledge of
the use of ICT and systems and
control technology in the design
and manufacture of products. They
must also be aware of the important
contributions of designers from the

There are a wealth of product design related degrees. You can choose to take a design/manufacturing route, or a managerial /
marketing route. You could work in engineering, manufacturing, design, research and development.

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Textiles Exam Board: AQA

At AS you will be developing your creative skills through the design and make process,
using a wide variety of Textile based applications. You will complete a portfolio over
the year, demonstrating your ability to carry out research into specific topics. You will
then be expected to produce two practical outcomes of high quality to support your
design / written work. Alongside the practical component you will study fabrics and their
properties, linking their uses to contemporary issues and industrial practices. At A2 your
practical work will consist of one final project, demonstrating your ability to draw together,
knowledge and experience gained from AS.
Course outline A2 Unit 4: Coursework
(25% of A-level )
AS Unit 1: Materials, Components and Application A portfolio of design work with one final high quality
(2 hour exam: 50% of AS, 25% of A-Level) practical outcome, completed over 60 hours
• Source and classification of fibre groups
• Yarn types – blending and mixing fibres
• Fabric manufacture – specific properties
• Fabric finished – including surface decoration
• Product components- function and use
• Industrial and commercial practice
• ICT application
• Design and development communication

AS Unit 2: Coursework
(50% of AS, 25 % of A-level)
A portfolio of design work with two practical outcomes
completed over 50 hours

A2 Unit 3: Synoptic written exam Goes well with . . .
(2 hour exam: 25% of A-level) Product Design Textiles will compliment other A-levels such
You are required to answer three questions from a choice as Art, Product Design, Business studies and Retail
of six
For advice
You are tested on your ability to bring together all elements Contact Mrs M Suthons-Hart
of the subject and to show your understanding in a holistic
way
Email
mhart@arthurterry.bham.sch.uk

There are a wealth of design and fashion related degrees. You can choose to take a creative and design route, or a managerial
/ marketing route. You could work in Interiors, Media, Retail or Technology. You may also choose to focus on one area alone,
eg. Embroidery, Footwear, Millinery or Photography.

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English Combined (Literature and Language) Exam Board: AQA

The study of English Language and Literature as a combined course encourages you
to develop your interest in both language and literature as interconnecting and mutually
supportive disciplines. If you enjoy reading and discussing a range of literature but also
have an interest in the linguistic approaches to language you will enjoy this course. We
explore the relationship between language and literature through a wide range of reading
opportunities; critically reading and responding to both literary and non-literary texts, as
well as writing for different audiences and purposes.
Course outline
AS Unit 1: Introduction to Language and Literature
Study
(1 hour 30 min exam: 60% of AS, 30% of A-Level)
This introductory unit is taught through an anthology of
literary and non-literary texts. You will be tested on your
knowledge and understanding in an examination.

AS Unit 2: Themes in Language and Literature
(Coursework: 40% of AS, 20% of A-Level)
In this unit, you study a pair of texts and respond through
coursework on your knowledge and understanding of the
texts and from a creative perspective.

A2 Unit 3: Talk in Life and Literature
You will study a play and respond in an examination to the
way the writer uses language to create dramatic effects,
and compare to unseen texts.

A2 Unit 4: Text Transformation
In this unit you will be required to produce coursework in
changing texts into another form.

This course goes well with any other A level. Critical
reading is an invaluable academic asset and important in
any form of further education, as well as being an important
life skill. Any English A level is well regarded by higher
education facilities.

For advice
Contact Miss J Thomas or Mrs J Wilson

Email
jthomas@arthurterry.bham.sch.uk or
jwilson@arthurterry.bham.sch.uk

The Literature and Language Combined A-Level is a flexible and adaptable course that opens up a wide range of career
choices. It will enable students to develop skills in written and spoken communication, working independently and thinking
critically; skills all highly valued by employers. Excellent written skills and skills of analysis are essential in a wide range of jobs,
but are particularly relevant in journalism, media, public relations, law, education, advertising and marketing.

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English Language Exam Board: AQA

English Language is the study of language and how it reflects and influences changes
in society. It challenges you to explore how texts are constructed and how language
impacts on communication in its diverse forms. You will study a wide range of topics
and, although it is not primarily a creative writing course, you are given the opportunity
to create and categorise texts. Debate and discussion are as important as grammatical
frameworks in English Language, allowing both analytical and creative students to excel
in this course. Do be aware that English Language is an academic and demanding
A Level that relies upon detailed analysis and research of language issues, and is
unlike anything students will have experienced at GCSE level. The study of the English
Language is fascinating and suits students who are analytical, exploratory and curious
to understand more about human behaviour and how language is learnt, used and
changes in different situations and through time.

Course Outline skills are invaluable academic For advice
assets and important in any further Contact Ms E Sheridan
education as well as being an
Unit 1: Categorising Texts
important life skill. Any English Email
(2 hour exam: 60% of AS, 30% of
A-Level is well regarded by higher esheridan@arthurterry.bham.sch.uk
A-Level)
This unit introduces students to the education establishments.
study of language and focuses on
Language and Power, Language
and Gender and Language and
Technology. Students will be
assessed in a 2 hour exam.

Unit 2: Creating Texts
(Coursework: 40% of AS, 20% of
A-Level)
This coursework component tests
students writing skills. Students will
use writing fames and models to
create their own texts.

Unit 3: Developing Language
Students will study Child Language
Acquisition and Language Change.

Unit 4: Investigating Language
Students apply their knowledge of
linguistic methods and concepts to
a coursework investigation of their
choice.

This course will go well with
any other A Levels, particularly
English Literature, Modern Foreign
Languages, Psychology, Sociology
and History. Critical reading,
conceptual thinking and discussion

Excellent written skills and skills of analysis are essential in a wide range of jobs, but particularly relevant in journalism, Media/
advertising, PR/Marketing, Law, Education, clerical jobs and indeed any job which requires good communication skills.

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English Literature Exam Board: AQA
As you will already know, English Literature comprises Drama, Poetry and the Novel –
and also a good helping of Shakespeare. We study any literature for pleasure, but also
to widen our emotional sympathies by entering into the lives of other people. As we read
we are forced to take sides and pass moral judgement, as supposedly real characters
grapple with the most important issues of life. Moreover, the chief new requirement of
English Literature is that we study ‘Literature in History’. A level Literature requires us to
see how writers are using their work to bring out the crucial issues of their own day and
their own lives e.g. the role of women, love and marriage, the plight of the poor, death,
slavery and so on. This is literature in History, or, as the specification says, ‘Texts in
Context’.

Course outline For advice
Contact Mr N Abbey or Mrs J Wilson
Unit 1: Texts in context
(2 hour exam: 60% of AS, 30% of A-Level) Email
You will study Victorian, World War One or Modern nabbey@arthurterry.bham.sch.uk or
Literature and be assessed in a 2 hour examination. jwilson@arthurterry.bham.sch.uk

Unit 2: Creative Study
(Coursework: 40% of AS, 20% of A-Level)
You will study set prose and drama texts and produce
a coursework folder containing two pieces of writing
comprising 2,000 words in total.

Unit 3: Reading for Meaning
(2 hour 30 min exam: 60% of A2, 30% of A-Level)
This unit focuses on studying and responding to a range of
literature on the theme of love.

Unit 4: Extended Essay and Shakespeare Study
(Coursework: 40% of A2, 20% of the A-Level)
Students will study three texts, including one Shakespeare
play and produce a coursework folder containing two
essays totalling 4,000 words.

Studying English Literature develops the skills of careful
reading, close analysis and developing a thoughtful written
argument. It goes well with any other A Level subject. It
is of special relevance to students interested in Modern
Foreign Languages, the Humanities, especially History and
Religious Education, Art and Drama.

English Literature provides an excellent foundation for anyone considering a career in Media, Education, Law, the Arts,
Psychology and Sociology.

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General Studies Exam Board: OCR

All students take AS & A-Level General Studies as part of the Sixth Form
Enrichment Programme. General Studies aims to give you the opportunity to extend
your interests to a wide range of disciplines; recognise the interdependence of different
areas of study and experience; think critically and logically; develop the skills of study,
analysis and evaluation of chosen issues, and provide clear, accurate and effective
communication of information and evaluation. Therefore, General Studies seeks to
broaden your mind and develop the skills of critical and logical thinking so that you can
form your own opinions.
Course outline For advice
Contact Mr N Bowater
AS Unit 1: The Cultural and Social Domains
(2 hour exam: 70% of AS, 35% of A-Level) Email
Key content includes: Political systems, processes and nbowater@arthurterry.bham.sch.uk
goals, social and economic trends and constraints,
explanation and evaluation of human behaviour, beliefs,
values, and moral reasoning, media and communication,
creativity and innovation.

AS Unit 2: The Scientific Domain
(1 hour exam: 30% of AS, 15% of A-Level)
Key content includes: Characteristics of the sciences
(physical, life and earth), understanding of scientific
methods, principles, criteria and their application,
mathematical reasoning and its application.

A2 Unit 3: Domain Exploration: Applying Synoptic
Skills
This unit provides you with the opportunity to develop your
thinking and analytical skills through the exploration of the
Cultural, Scientific and Social Domains.
• Section A questions explore the three domains to enable
you to develop thinking and analytical skills.
• Section B questions allow further development of your
analytical skills through the three domains.

A2 Unit 4: Culture, Science and Society: Making
Connections
This unit enables you to make connections between
information, data, concepts and opinions drawn from the
Cultural, Scientific and Social Domains.

General Studies is taken in addition to your main subjects,
not instead of them. In this sense it stands alongside every
other A-Level.

C
T
Careers and Higher Education v
Having an ‘A’ level pass in General Studies can be enormously helpful in getting into university. Even where a university •
department does not normally accept General Studies, a good pass is bound to be a favourable influence. Moreover, if you do
•
less well than you had hoped in one of your main subjects and you may think you have lost your place at a university, General
Studies will sometimes be swapped in as an alternative by the university if they are interested in you. So you may never realise •
how important General Studies is to you until Results Day at the end of Year 13! •

Tel 0121 323 2221 Web www.arthurterry.bham.sch.uk T
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Applied Health & Social Care Exam Board: EDEXCEL

This course has been designed to provide a broad educational basis for further training,
further education or for moving into appropriate employment within the health and
social care sector. The qualification has been designed to be delivered in a work-related
context and to allow you to develop an understanding of the diverse and complex nature
of the health and social care sector. It is delivered via a work related context and a work
experience is organised early in the course with the support of teaching staff. This is
arranged to coincide with one delivered lesson, as the work experience is the basis of
the coursework.
Course outline A2 Unit 6: Investigating Disease
AS Unit 1: Human Growth and Development This unit builds on the concepts of health and disease
(1 hour 30 min exam: 331/3% of AS ) you were introduced to in Unit 1. You will learn about
Health and social care practitioners need to develop a the disease process, and will carry out an individual
knowledge base for working with people in every stage investigation into various aspects of two specific diseases.
of their lives. This unit will develop your knowledge This will include the biological basis of diseases, the ways
and understanding of patterns of human growth and in which a diagnosis may be made, the availability of
development. treatment, the factors that may influence the outcome of
the treatments, the strategies for preventing the spread or
AS Unit 2: Communication and Values occurrence of the disease, and epidemiological methods
(Coursework: 331/3% of AS) for tracking disease.
This unit will give you an understanding of the importance
of communication in all caring activities, and about values Goes well with…
involved in care. You will learn about the value base of care Health and Social Care combines well with a range of
and the transmission of values through communication. other subjects in the social sciences, such Psychology
and Sociology, as well as the sciences, especially
AS Unit 3: Positive Care Environments Biology, together with technology subjects, such as Food
(Coursework: 331/3% of AS) Technology. It might also be taken alongside PE.
The knowledge that you gain from this unit will allow
you to understand that positive care practice relies on For Advice
practitioners having a comprehensive understanding of the Contact Miss R Geillis
diverse society we live in, and that the promotion of a care
value base can enhance services users’ opportunities in Email
accessing services. rgeillis@arthurterry.bham.sch.uk

A2 Unit 4: Meeting Individual Needs
(1 hour 30 min exam: 162/3% of A-Level)
This unit assesses your knowledge and understanding
of how health and social care services are structured
and provided within the UK. The unit will focus on how
services are tailored to meet individual needs through the
use of care plans, and on the importance of working in a
multidisciplinary environment.

A2 unit 5: Promoting Health and Well-Being
This unit will develop your knowledge and understanding
of promoting health and well-being. You will find out why
health promotion campaigns are carried out, and how
topics and target groups are identified.

This qualification supports progression into further education, training or employment, as it offers a mix of both theoretical and
vocational learning. Learners who successfully complete the course have several routes of progression:
• Degrees in health and social care-related subjects and areas
• NVQ in Care
• BTEC Higher National Certificates and Diplomas in health and social care-related subjects and areas
• Training within employment

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Geography Exam Board: AQA

The AQA specification for Geography retains the core physical and human aspects of
the subject whilst approaching some more contemporary issues. You will study a range
of themes, places and environments taking into account different scales and contexts,
including the UK and countries that are in different stages of development. You will be
expected to use contemporary examples and case studies, and to carry out individual
research into these.
Course Outline

AS Unit 1: Physical and Human
Geography
(2 hour exam: 70% of AS; 35% of
A-Level)
This unit will allow you to build on
knowledge gained from the GCSE
and to develop new skills and a more
in-depth understanding. The unit
consists of the following topics:
• Rivers, floods and management
• Coastal environments
• Global population change
• Health issues

The coastal environments unit will
be delivered in conjunction with the
Y12 Field Trip, where students will
develop their research and fieldwork
skills. • World cities – evolution or technology based subjects, like
revolution? ICT, Biology, Physics, Psychology,
AS Unit 2: Applied Geography • Development and globalisation Mathematics and Technology, as well
(2 hour exam : 30% of AS; 15% as the more traditional companion
of A-Level) Unit 2 assesses • Contemporary conflicts and
subjects like History, Sociology and
the skills taught through Unit 1. challenges.
English. You will be expected to be
Broadly speaking, these skills able to write in detail and with flair, as
are cartographic, investigative, A2 Unit 4: well as demonstrate more practical
graphical, statistical and ICT. (1 hour 30 min or 2 hour exam: 20% and analytical skills. Geographers
of A-Level) develop excellent transferrable
A2 Unit 3: Contemporary This unit is subject to change, but skills including: communication
Geographical Issues will be either a write up of a fieldwork skills; teamwork; flexibility; decision
(2 hour exam; 30% of A-Level) investigation under controlled making; time management; analysis/
This unit look a rage of contemporary conditions, or a geographical problem solving; project writing.
issues from the following topic list: issues paper based on pre-release
materials. For advice
• Plate tectonics and associated
hazards Contact Mr D Napper
• Weather and climate and Geography is compatible with a Email
associated hazards range of other subjects, and is now dnapper@arthurterry.bham.sch.uk
• Challenges facing ecosystems often studied with science and

A qualification in Geography is very well respected by both universities and employers. As well as progressing onto a
Geography based degree, common jobs chosen after studying Geography at A level include: education, professional and
social services; environmental management; information services; business and finance; scientific services; management and
administration; leisure, travel and tourism.

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History Exam Board: AQA

“Who controls the past controls the future: who controls the present controls the past.”
GEORGE ORWELL

History isn’t a subject that’s stuck in the past. Far from it, historical events have shaped
society worldwide into what it is today. Moreover, as the quote above suggests, how the
past is interpreted has been just as important in shaping peoples’ minds and outlook.
While today can be influenced by what happened in the distant as well as the recent
past, the course focuses on the latter and, perhaps to us, the most relevant recent era,
that of the twentieth century, as we continue to move forward into the twenty first. If you
are an independent thinker who wants to learn more about how the past impacts upon
the present, then A-Level History could be for you.

Course Outline A2 Unit 3: Aspects of subject for the other humanities,
International Relations, 1945- of course, but also goes well with
2003 Modern Foreign Languages and
(1 hour 30 min exam: 30% of all of the English A-Levels. It also
A-Level) compliments many of the Social
In the second year you will study Sciences, especially Law, Business
the development of Germany in the and Economics, and also sits well
aftermath of the Second World War. alongside some of the visual and
performing arts, such as Art, Music
A2 Unit 4: Historical Enquiry and Theatre Studies. While not
(Coursework: 20% of A-Level) always an obvious companion to
This is a coursework unit for which the Sciences, some students will be
you will write a personal study of found studying Biology alongside
approximately 3500 words based on History.
an investigation into Race Relations
in the USA 1863-1980. For advice
Contact Mr Leese
Goes well with…
History goes well with a wide range Email
of other subjects. It is a good partner dleese@arthurterry.bham.sch.uk

AS Unit 1: Britain 1906-1951
(1 hour 15 min exam: 50% of AS,
25% of A-Level)
This unit looks at a period of rapid
and significant change in British
politics, society and the economy.

AS Unit 2: Life in Nazi Germany,
1933-1945
(1 hour 30 min exam: 50% of the AS,
25% of the A-Level)
This unit will look at the methods
Hitler and the Nazis used to control
people’s lives and how far he
succeeded in achieving his aims.

History is clearly an essential subject for those who wish to pursue it at university but it also has a much broader relevance.
It is highly appropriate to careers in law, journalism, politics and general management, in fact any area in which the ability to
evaluate information and present reasoned arguments is useful. Many of Britain’s top company bosses have history degrees.
People as diverse as Jonathan Ross, Gordon Brown, Anita Roddick, Chris Martin and Salman Rushdie have History degrees.

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Law Exam Board: AQA

Following this course at AS-Level you will develop a knowledge and understanding
of the legal system and an ability to evaluate its operation and performance. The
specification introduces substantive law and requires simple application of aspects of
criminal law and tort law. At A-Level, the specification further develops knowledge of the
legal system through criminal and civil law.

Course Outline

AS Unit 1: Law Making and the and sentencing and tort covers that causes psychiatric injury, and
Legal System negligence and the calculation other torts are studied including
(1 hour 30 min exam: 50% of AS, of damages. The emphasis is on occupiers’ liability and nuisance. In
25% of A-Level) solving legal problems and students addition to studying the substantive
This unit covers the sources of law learn the skill of applying the rules of law you will also look at some
including legislation and how it is law to hypothetical situations. interesting concepts such as the
made by Parliament, how the judges extent to which law and morality
interpret legislation and how they A2 Unit 3: Criminal Law overlap and the extent to which law
create law through decisions in (1 hour 30 min exam: 25% of achieves justice.
cases and also delegated legislation A-Level)
such as by laws made by councils. This unit covers non fatal offences Goes well with . . .
Also covered, is an examination in greater detail and also the crimes Law goes well with many other
of how disputes are solved within of murder and manslaughter. You subjects, including the Arts and
and outside the court system and will also learn about defences which Humanities subjects such as English
the various personnel involved for can be raised to remove or reduce and History. It also goes well with
example judges, juries, solicitors and liability such as self defence and Social Science subjects such as
barristers. provocation. The skills of using legal Business Studies and Economics,
sources and of legal problem solving and will also combine well with a
AS Unit 2: The Concept of are developed further Modern Foreign Language.
Liability
(1 hour 30 min exam: 50% of AS, A2 Unit 4: Tort and Concepts of For advice
25% of A-Level) Law Contact Mrs P Whelan
In this unit you will explore two (2 hour exam; 25% of A-Level)
areas of substantive law; criminal The tort of negligence is explored in Email
and tort. The criminal covers non- more depth, including negligence pwhelan@arthurterry.bham.sch.uk
fatal offences against the person

A Level Law has become increasingly popular over recent years and is highly regarded by employers and universities. For
students thinking of studying law at degree level, whilst it is not a compulsory subject for admission it provides a valuable
introduction to the nature of law as an academic discipline and it starts to develop important skills such as legal problem
solving. Many students, after their first year at university, comment as to how much it helped them. However for those not
considering law after school, studying it to A Level provides skills development in research and the use of source materials,
writing academic essays with reasoned arguments and critical evaluation. Law affects every aspect of our lives and so some
knowledge is useful whatever the choice of career.

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Psychology Exam Board: AQA

In 1913 psychologist John Watson claimed Psychology was the science of human
behaviour. Today’s exam specifications certainly echo this sentiment and there is a
clear emphasis on the scientific approach. As an A-Level Psychology student you will be
assessed on the following skills:
• Your ability to recognise, recall and show understanding of scientific knowledge.
• he way you select, organise and communicate relevant information in your written
T
work.
• Your ability to analyse and evaluate scientific knowledge.
• How you apply knowledge and processes to unfamiliar situations.
• he extent to which you can assess the validity, reliability and credibility of scientific
T
information
• he level at which you can describe ethical, safe and skilful research techniques and
T
processes.
• Your understanding of how to make, record, and communicate valid observations.
• he depth to which you can analyse, interpret, explain and evaluate research
T
methodology.

Course outline A2 Unit 4: Psychopathology, Psychology in Action
and Research Methods
AS Unit 1: Cognitive Psychology, Developmental (2 hour exam: 25% of A-Level)
Psychology and Research Methods Topics include research methods and inferential statistics,
(1 hour 30 min exam: 50% of AS, 25% of A-Level) debates in psychology, psychopathology and different
You will study the following topic areas in this unit: approaches in psychology.
• Cognitive psychology, including memory and eyewitness Goes well with . . .
testimony If you just want to do a degree in Psychology then it doesn’t
• Developmental psychology, including early social usually matter what other subjects you take alongside it,
development, attachment and the effects of day care but if you want to work in this area, universities will expect
• Research methods, in the context of the topic areas. you to combine it, usually with Biology and Chemistry, or
Biology and Mathematics. That said, Psychology goes well
AS Unit 2: Biological Psychology, Social with many other subjects, including Law, English, Business
Studies and Sociology.
Psychology and Individual Differences
(1 hour 30 min exam: 50% of the AS, 25% of the A-Level)
For advice
This unit covers the following topics:
Contact Miss R Geillis
• Biological psychology - stress, factors affecting stress,
coping and managing stress Email
• Social psychology - conformity, obedience and rgeillis@arthurterry.bham.sch.uk
independent behaviour
• Individual differences - definitions of abnormality,
approaches and therapies.

A2 Unit 3: Topics in Psychology
You will study a range of topics, including biological
rhythms and sleep, aggression and eating behaviours.

Psychology provides you with many useful skills which are sought after in many sectors of the workplace, including health,
counselling, teaching and business. If you want to work in clinical psychology further study is required, and your degree will
have to be accredited by the British Psychological Society. These degrees allow you to do further training leading to careers
such as clinical psychologist, social worker, psychotherapist and speech and language therapist.

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Religious Studies Exam Board: EDEXCEL

This is an exciting and dynamic course which is designed to enable you to develop
insights into areas of knowledge, belief and thought central to an understanding of the
modern world. Through a study of philosophy, ethics, scripture and some of the world’s
major religions, you will be equipped with a range of knowledge and skills which will help
you to make sense of contemporary events.

Course Outline Goes well with…
A-level Religious Studies
AS Unit 1: Foundations complements many other subjects,
(1 hour 45 min exam: 50% of AS, such as English, History and the
25% of A-Level) Social Sciences.
This unit looks introduces two areas
of study: Philosophy of Religion and For advice
Ethics. Contact Mrs K Shakeshaft

AS Unit 2: Investigations Email
(1 hour 45 min exam: 50% of AS, kshakeshaft@arthurterry.bham.sch.uk
25% of A-Level)
This unit allows the students
to study ethical issues at more
depth through an enquiry-based
approach to learning. You will be
given the opportunity to undertake
individual research into the topic
area, which will enable you to study
independently and to use, and
evaluate, a wide range of source
material.

A2 Unit 3: Developments
(1 hour 45 min exam, 25% of
A-Level)
This unit has been designed to build
on the knowledge, understanding
and skills developed in Unit 1:
Foundations. You will study further
issues in the Philosophy of Religion
such as Atheism and Near Death
Experiences and as a complete
contrast you will also study aspects
of Hinduism.

A2 Unit 4: Implications
(1 hour 15 min exam, 25% of
A-Level)
This unit has been designed to build
on the knowledge, understanding
and skills developed in Units 1, 2 and
3. This unit is designed to test you
further through the study of religious,
philosophical and ethical source
material.

A-level Religious Studies is highly respected by universities and employers alike. It encourages the development of C
transferable skills alongside its academically rigorous subject content, which helps prepare students for work and higher T
education. Many of Arthur Terry’s students have gone on to study Religious Studies and Philosophy, but also Nursing, Law, T
History, Journalism, Politics and a variety of other subjects. A Religious Studies qualification is also valuable for careers in r
Politics and Social Services, Armed Forces and many others. c

Tel 0121 323 2221 Web www.arthurterry.bham.sch.uk T
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Sociology Exam Board: AQA

Sociology definitely makes you question events in society. It is vital you have an interest
in the world around you and you need to have an up-to-date knowledge of current affairs
to succeed in this subject. There is a good deal of essay writing in the course and you
will really develop your evaluative skills. As an A-level Sociology student you will be
assessed on the following skills.
• our knowledge and understanding of theoretical perspectives in Sociological
Y
research.
• our ability to understand key concepts and methods used by Sociologists.
Y
• he extent to which you can understand research evidence and make links to the
T
chosen methodology and theoretical perspective.
• our ability to communicate your knowledge in a clear and effective manner.
Y
• he level at which you can apply research to the topic under discussion.
T
• he depths at which you are able to analyse and interpret findings.
T
• he insight you show when evaluating research studies and theories.
T

Course outline
AS Unit 1: Families and Households
You will sit a one hour exam paper consisting of a five part
question, two of which are essay based. The questions all
focus on the topic of Family and Households.

AS Unit 2: Education & Sociological Methods
For this unit you sit a second exam. There will be one
question on Education consisting of four parts, one
question on sociological research methods in Education,
and a final question made up of four parts on free-standing
research methods.

A2 Unit 3: Beliefs in Society
(1 hour 30 min exam: 20% of A-Level) Goes well with…
This unit will consist of an exam covering Beliefs in Society. Sociology can be combined with arts or science subjects.
The unit is focused on Religion and you will be expected to Health & Social Care, Biology, Law, Psychology, Business
answer one compulsory question and a second question and Economics will all go well with it.
from a choice of two. As with the AS exams, essay writing
skills are important. For Advice
Contact Miss R Geillis
A2 Unit 4: Crime and Deviance & Theory and
Methods Email
(2 hour exam: 30% of A-Level) rgeillis@arthurterry.bham.sch.uk
This second exam will be based on Crime and Deviance.
You will answer a two part question on this topic, again
including essay writing. This is followed by a two part
question on research methods used to investigate Crime
and Deviance. Finally you are required to answer one
question on theory and methods in which essay responses
are expected.

There are many different kinds of degree in this area, and it can be combined with other degree subjects as at A-Level.
There are many graduate jobs related to Sociology, such as education, training and teaching, social/community work, social
research, social worker and probation officer. If you do not go on to degree level in the subject, an A-Level will help get you a
career in the areas of business, the public sector and the not-for-profit sector.

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Mathematics and Further Mathematics Exam Board: EDEXCEL

Mathematics is the application of a finite number of methods to an infinite number
of problems. If you have a reasonable aptitude for Mathematics the subject can be
rewarding, enjoyable and very useful. A special advantage is that it is about the only
academic subject that does not involve a substantial amount of factual knowledge. A
good understanding of the principles involved, together with practice in solving the
recurrent type of problems, will make a successful Mathematician.

Course outline Universities take this qualification very seriously, but it is
accessible for all students with a love of Mathematics and a
Mathematics very good GCSE ability.

The scheme of Assessment has a modular structure. The A FP1: Mechanics
Level award comprises four compulsory Maths Pure Core (1 hour 30 min exam: 331/3% of AS)
units, and two optional Applied units, one of Mechanics and Algebra and Graphs, Complex Numbers, Roots and
one of Statistics. Coefficients of a Quadratic Equation, Series, Calculus,
Numerical Methods, Trigonometry, Matrices and
AS Unit 1: MPC 1 Transformations.
(I hour 30 min exam : 331/3% of AS, 162/3% of A-Level)
Algebra, Coordinate Geometry, Differentiation, Integration. S2: Statistics
(1 hour 30 min exam: 331/3% of AS)
AS Unit 2: MPC 2 Discrete Random Variables, Poisson Distribution,
(1 hour 30 min exam: 331/3% of AS, 162/3% of A-Level) Continuous Random Variables, Estimation, Hypothesis
Algebra and Functions, Sequences and Series, Testing, Chi-Square Contingency Table Tests.
Trigonometry, Exponentials and Logarithms, Differentiation
and Integration. D1: Decision
(1 hour 30 min exam: 331/3% of AS)
A2 Unit 3: MPC 3 Simple Ideas of Algorithms, Graphs and Networks,
(1 hour 30 min exam: 162/3% of A-Level) Spanning Tree Problems, Matchings, Shortest Paths in
Algebra and Functions, Trigonometry, Exponentials and Networks, Route Inspection Problems, Travelling Sales
Logarithms, Differentiation, Integration, Numerical Methods. Person Problem, Linear Programming, Mathematical
Modelling.
A2 Unit 4: MPC 4
Algebra and Functions, Coordinate Geometry in the (x,y)
plane.
Sequences and Series, Tirgonometry, Exponentials and
Logarithms, Differentiation and Integration, Vectors.

Plus the following two units:

MS1A: Statistics 1
Numerical Measures, Probability, Binomial Distribution, Goes well with …
Normal Distribution, Estimation, Correlation and Regression. Mathematics goes well with subjects such as Physics,
Chemistry, Biology, Business, Economics and ICT. It can
MM1A: Mechanics also be combined with other subjects such as Music and
(1 hour 30 min exam: 162/3% of A-Level) Modern Foreign Languages. A-Level Maths can be a good
Mathematical Modelling, Kinematics in One and Two companion subject with any other A-Level.
Dimensions, Statics and Forces, Momentum, Newton’s
Laws of Motion, Connected Particles, Projectiles. For advice
Contact Mrs K Robinson
Further Mathematics
Further Mathematics is offered at AS Level for Year 12 or Email
Year 13 students who are enthusiastic Mathematicians. krobinson@arthurterry.bham.sch.uk

It is essential for almost all Engineering courses, and is very useful (indeed essential at some universities) for Business Studies,
Accountancy, Finance, Management Science, Economics, Physics and other Science courses including Medicine, Computing
and Architecture.

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French & German Exam Board: AQA

There is a French saying: “A man who speaks two languages is two men”. Mastering
another language enables you to become acquainted with another way of thinking and
another culture. Apart from the purely practical benefits for business, social life and
leisure, having another language is a personally enriching one. Over the two years of
the course, you will develop your ability to speak and write in French/German, as well
as to understand the spoken and written forms of the language. You will also develop
your cultural knowledge of the countries in which the language is spoken, and have an
opportunity to discuss topical issues relevant to these countries. You will also have a
weekly lesson in a small group with the French/German assistant for most of the course
to provide you with opportunities to improve your spoken language.
Course outline • Family/relationships (Relationships within the family,
Friendships, Marriage/Partnerships)

A2 Unit 3: Listening, Reading and Writing

A2 Unit 3: Speaking Test
(35 min, including 20 min preparation time: 15% of A-Level)

The A2 course will cover the following:
• Environment: pollution, energy and protecting the planet
• The multi-cultural society: immigration, integration and
racism
• Contemporary social issues: wealth and poverty, law
and order and the impact of scientific and technological
progress
• Cultural topic: the study of a target language speaking
region/community or the study of a period of 20th
century history from a target language-speaking country/
community or the study of a novelist/dramatist/poet from
a target language-speaking country/community or the
study of a director/architect/musician/painter from a
The structure of the course is the same for both languages target language-speaking country/ community.

AS Unit 1: Listening, Reading and Writing Goes well with . . .
(2 hour exam: 70% of AS, 35% of A-Level) You may choose to study more than one language at
A-Level or you may wish to combine a language with
AS Unit 2: Speaking Test other subjects. Languages go well with almost anything,
(35 min, including 20 min of preparation time: 30% of AS, but popular combinations include English Language and
15% of A-Level) English Literature, History, Music, Business, Law and
Mathematics.
The AS course will cover the following:
• Media (Television, Advertising, Communication For advice
Technology) Contact Mr M Gannon
• Popular Culture (Cinema, Music, Fashion/trends)
Email
• Healthy Living/Lifestyle (Sport/Exercise, Health and well- mgannon@arthurterry.bham.sch.uk
being, Holidays)

You may study a specific language at degree level or as part of a combined degree in modern languages. To get on to one
of these courses you often have studied two languages at A-Level and have a high degree of competence in the language of
your choice. Jobs which require a modern language include translation and interpreting, teaching, some areas of journalism
and even the Diplomatic Service. Other jobs in which a degree in modern languages might be useful include marketing,
publishing and printing and logistics management.

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Dance Exam Board: AQA

Do you love to Dance! Do you have previous experience of dance from outside classes
or at school. Then this is the subject for you.

In Dance you will be required to demonstrate you imagination and skills in creating your
own dances. Ideally you will already be taking regular Contemporary, Ballet or Jazz
classes and enjoy watching a range of professional dance works from different styles.
During the course you will be expected to extend your knowledge and understanding of
dance from current choreographers and companies to choreographers from the past. You
want to develop critical thinking skills about dance as an art form, and develop the skills
to be able to write clearly and concisely.

Course Outline choreography and your performance A2 Unit 3: Appreciation:
skills in a duo or trio. Content and Context
AS Unit 1: Understanding (1 hour 30 min exam: 25% of
You will be required to answer two A-Level)
Dance
questions, one on solo choreography This unit requires you to investigate
and performance and one other on one area of study within - Ballet,
20% of A-Level)
performance in a duo/trio. Contemporary Dance or Jazz Dance
In this unit you will study the Dancer
as a performer and the knowledge and you will be required to produce a
and understanding of the demands critical analysis and appreciation of
made in practice and performance one set work.
on the dancer. You will also study the
process and craft of choreography A2 Unit 4: Group Choreography
and the significance of dances. and Solo Performance
(Practical examination assessed by a
AS Unit 2: Choreography and visiting examiner: 25% of A-Level)
Performance In this unit you will research and
(Practical Coursework: 60% of AS, choreograph a group dance as well
30% of A-Level) as present a solo performance which
During unit 2 you will study the demonstrates an understanding of
process of solo choreography from your performance style linked to a
investigation and research ideas specific practitioner.
through to finished dance. You will be
assessed on your physical and
interpretive skills in relation to
performance of the solo

This course goes well with any other
A level. However students often take
subjects including Drama, Music, Art,
Textiles, PE and English Language.

For advice
Contact Miss Z Hopkins

Email
zhopkins@arthurterry.bham.sch.uk

A level Dance prepares you for degree courses within dance and the performing arts. For the most able practically, it may lead
to a dance course at a vocational college like Laban, London Contemporary dance school or Northern school of contemporary
dance. Having built up a range of specialist knowledge you will be equipped to lead a healthy life style, experience the joy of
exercise and expression through dance and become an informed member of the dance theatre world.

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Drama and Theatre Studies Exam Board: EDEXCEL

The Drama and Theatre Studies course provides you with an exciting opportunity for all
of you who are passionate about Theatre and about Acting. It is a vibrant, high-energy
subject that will challenge your perceptions on Theatre and Performance. The course is
designed to stretch not only your Acting ability but also to develop an in-depth theoretical
understanding and appreciation of Theatre. If you choose Drama and Theatre Studies
you will not only be part of the most successful subject at Arthur Terry, but you will be a
part of the most successful department in the country. More importantly, you will be part
of a community that will support and guide you through what will be a very testing time in
your educational career.

Course outline
AS Unit 1: Exploration of Drama and Theatre
(Internally assessed performance and written elements:
40% of AS, 20% of A-Level)
The written element of Unit 1 requires you to use your
knowledge and understanding of Theatre to analyse
the social, cultural and historical context of the text and
consider its value within today’s society.
The practical element of Unit 1 requires you to practically
apply your knowledge and understanding to shape and
develop a performance of each text.

AS Unit 2: Theatre Text in Performance
(Externally assessed performance: 60% of AS, 30% of
A-Level)
This course goes well with any other A level. However
Unit 2 consists of a group performance of a set text and
students often take English Literature, Language or
of a monologue or duologue from another text. Although
Combined to back up the use of language. Psychology is
you will be assessed upon your Acting skills only, you will
a popular option as it addresses the human responses of
also be expected to develop a concept for your given texts
characters as well as other creative subjects such as Art,
and direct the pieces yourself. Unit 2 will be marked by an
Dance and Music.
external examiner. Therefore 60% of their mark for AS level
comes purely from one performance. For advice
Contact Mr Chaplain
A2 Unit 3: Exploration of Dramatic Performance
(Internally assessed performance and written elements: Email
20% of A-Level) achaplain@arthurterry.bham.sch.uk
This unit requires the creation of a unique and original piece of
theatre which culminates in a final practical performance in
front of an audience. You will be assessed on your ability to
create, direct, produce and evaluate the working processes
and upon your acting within the final performance.

A2 Unit 4: Theatre Text in Context
This Unit assesses your knowledge and understanding
of two further texts. The examination breaks down into
3 sections. Sections A & B will be questions and essays
based upon a text set by the examination board. Section C
is a comparison of a contemporary production of a text to
the text’s original performance conditions.

Drama and Theatre Studies will open up a wide range of career or higher education choices. It will enable students to develop
a range of transferrable skills : written and spoken communication, working analytically, working effectively in a group,
developing intra and interpersonal skills, ability to work under pressure, application of ICT, working independently. These skills
are valued by employers in a wide range of jobs, but are particularly relevant in theatre, media, performance and education.

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Fine Art Exam Board: OCR

We live in an increasingly visual world. Almost everything around us is designed; we
are bombarded with advertising, surrounded by images on screens, intrigued by the
latest outrageous fashion or architecture and immersed in a digital culture. This dynamic
A-Level course develops your creative problem solving skills and requires you to work
with independence, motivation and determination.

Course outline five sections: Stimuli – typically 1 word starting points,
Observational – brief descriptive items, Design brief –
AS Unit 1: Coursework Portfolio product based tasks, Art in context – artist directed tasks,
(60% of AS, 30% of A-Level) and Visual starting points – tasks derived from 3 or 4
You will produce a portfolio of work during the first term images.
of AS. There is a strong focus on including work that
shows exploration, research, development of techniques A2 Unit 3: Personal Investigation
and skills. Recording from direct observation will form (30% of A-Level)
the starting point of projects. Ideas and techniques will The focus of this work is determined by you. One major
then be developed to produce exciting personal work and project is produced which must include a related written
well-informed responses. You will learn to analyse your study between 1000-3000 words.
own work and the work of others in contemporary and
historical contexts. Experimentation with new media is very A2 Unit 4: Controlled Assignment
much encouraged with video, sound, image manipulation, (20% of A-Level)
casting, photography, painting, installation and sculpture You again select one starting point from an early release
being explored through a variety of approaches. question paper. The paper takes the same format as the
AS Unit 2. You work within a 15 hour controlled period to
produce a final outcome.

After discussion with individual candidates at interview
stage, we may offer the option of Art with a Photography
bias. Some of these students may then be entered for
Photography A Level, depending upon their commitment
and technical ability shown through independent study
and photo shoots. Students interested in this option must
be willing to experiment with all aspects of Art and Design
initially.

Art is a popular subject at Arthur Terry and the department
has had 100% success rate at A’ Level for many years.
You should ideally have studied Art and Design at GCSE,
but must have taken a creative subject, such as Textiles or
Graphics, and have a Grade C or above in English in order
to succeed at advanced level.
AS Unit 2: Controlled Assignment
(40% of AS, 20% of A-Level) For advice
You select one starting point from an early release question Contact Mrs C Monteiro
paper and are given a minimum of three weeks in which
to plan and prepare. Five hours of controlled examination Email
time are given to reach an outcome. The paper has cmonteiro@arthurterry.bham.sch.uk

Art can be taken in conjunction with any other subject, linking well with other Arts subjects, or providing balance and a wider
skills base for Science students.

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Music Exam Board: OCR

AS Music is an exciting and lively course if you enjoy performing / singing, composing
and studying music. Music is a popular subject at The Arthur Terry School and we have
one of the highest candidatures of any school in the Midlands, with a 100% success
rate at A-Level since 1989. You need to be able to perform to a good standard on an
instrument or voice (approximately Grade 4 by the start of the AS course, Grade 6 by the
A2 course), and be able to read music fluently. Many students have taken GCSE Music
before taking the AS course, but this is not an absolute requirement, although we would
like to see evidence of musical skills before acceptance.

Course outline set works and then be asked questions relating to musical
details of the works and their context. You will also be asked
AS Unit 1: Performing questions on either classical or popular instrumental music,
(40% of AS, 20% of A-Level) is in three parts: comparing, describing and adding missing notes to the
score.
• You will prepare a solo recital on your main instrument or
voice of around 8 minutes duration, to be performed to a A2 Unit 4: Performing 2
visiting examiner in the Spring Term of Year 12. (20% of the A-Level) is in two parts:
• There is a short viva voce discussion in which you will • Solo recital on the student’s main instrument or voice of
discuss the performance and the preparation of their around 15 minutes duration
recital.
• Viva voce discussion with the examiner showing
• You will also be asked to choose either to perform a four understanding of the works performed in the recital
minute piece on a second instrument, to perform in an
This unit is assessed by a visiting examiner in the spring
ensemble or to improvise.
term of the course; you need to be prepared for the exam
which could be as early as February half term!

AS Unit 5: Composing 2
(15% of the A-Level) is in two parts:
• A composition for voice using a text set by the exam
board, or a composition for a film storyboard
• A set of harmony exercises piano accompaniments in the
style of Schumann and Schubert. The last exercise will
be under timed conditions.

A2 Unit 6: Historical and Analytical Studies in Music
(1 hour 45 min exam: 15% of the A-Level)
AS Unit 2: Composing This is a written examination sat at the end of the A2
(30% of AS; 15% of A-Level) is in two parts: course, which will include listening questions around vocal
music of the early 20th century, and an essay on a historical
• You will prepare an arrangement of a lead sheet (a
topic studied as part of the course, which will most likely
melody with chords, for example a popular song). This
be on ‘programme music’ (instrumental music that tells a
will be completed on music computers. You will need to
story).
submit a score and a recording by Easter of Year 12.
• You will complete seven exercises of harmony, the last Goes well with . . .
of which will be under exam conditions. To prepare for Music can be taken in conjunction with any other subject.
this you will receive full training on the methods and Many students opt to take Music Technology alongside
conventions of music theory. Music.

For advice
AS Unit 3: Introduction to Historical Study in Music Contact Mr C Collet
(1 hour 45 min exam: 30% of the AS, 15% of the A-Level)
This is an exam sat in the summer term of Year 12. You Email
will study three classical music set works and three jazz ccollet@arthurterry.bham.sch.uk

As you can see from the course outline, Music AS level requires a wide range of skills and techniques, attractive to employers
and universities. These include analytical techniques, historical techniques, (historical topics), time management skills and
self-motivation (with instrumental practise), organisation and people-management (conducting/rehearsing), team work
(performing in an ensemble), and creativity (composition).

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Music Technology Exam Board: EDEXCEL

This is a new course that is exciting, innovative and vocational in style. The AS
Level course prepares you for the vigorous A2 course where you will build upon the
fundamentals learned in the first year. Every element of the two-year course is delivered
in a fast paced, university style lecture/workshop sessions by industry experienced
specialist staff trained in Session Musicianship, Film Composition and Music Production.
You will use industry standard hardware and software for the duration of the two-year
course. The course ethos is one of an ‘anything is possible’ attitude, even under extreme
pressure and focuses upon fully preparing students for the rigours and pressures of
working within the music related industry. The course covers a wide variety of practical
topics including: Music Sequencing/Arranging, Multi-Track Recording, Popular Music
Studies, Sound Design, Electronic Synthesis, Film Composition and Music Production.

Course Outline Goes well with . . .
This course complements all
AS Unit 1: Music Technology subjects including Music, Drama,
Portfolio 1 ICT, Physics and English.
(70% of AS, 35% of A level)
For advice
Topics included in this unit include:
Contact Mr K Williams or
• Sequenced Realised Performance Mr P Bagnato
• Multi-track Recording
• Creative Sequenced Arrangement Email
kwilliams@arthurterry.bham.sch.uk or
pbagnato@arthurterry.bham.sch.uk
AS Unit 2: Listening and
Analysing
15% of A-Level)
This unit is based upon popular
music since 1910, including two
special areas of study: Heavy Rock A2 unit 3: Music Technology
and Reggae. Portfolio 2
(30% of A-Level)
Topics included in this unit include:
• Sequenced Integrated
Performance
• Multi-track Recording
• Composing Using Music
Technology

A2 Unit 4: Analysing and
Producing
This unit requires you to use
computer software to comment upon
musical elements and technological
processes, find errors in recordings
and create a stereo mix from a multi-
track session.

Music Technology provides a plethora of multi-faceted employment pathways following graduation including: music producer,
recording engineer, composer for TV/film, music journalism, A & R, promotion, teaching & session musicianship. The course
has enjoyed great successes with the A2 course achieving 100% A-C with overall performance well above national averages.
Previous students have gone on to study at: Birmingham Conservatoire, London College of Music – Thames Valley, SAE –
School Of Audio Engineering, Leeds College of Music and the Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts.

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PE Exam Board: OCR

For students who are naturally gifted or seriously involved in any aspect of sport, it is a
pleasure to realise that PE is one of the options you can take at A-Level. You will be able
to exploit your innate abilities through the practical components of this course, but you
should note that you will also have to get down to some serious theoretical academic
study for the majority of the course.
Course outline Section B – Acquiring Movement Skills
• Classification of motor skills and abilities
• The development of motor skills
• Information processing
• Motor control of skills in physical activity
• Learning skills in physical activity

Section C - Socio-Cultural Studies relating to participation in
physical activity (Practical: 40% of AS; 20% of A-Level)
• Physical activity
• Sport and culture
• Contemporary sporting issues

AS Unit 2: Acquiring, developing and evaluating
practical skills in Physical Education
(Practical: 40% of AS, 20% of A-Level)
• Performance – 2 activities from different activity profiles
• Evaluating and planning for the improvement of
performance

A2 Unit 3: Principles and concepts across
different areas of Physical Education
(2 hour 30 min: 35% of A-Level)
This unit is made up of the following topic areas:
• Socio-cultural options - Historical Studies
• Scientific options - Sports Psychology
• Scientific options - Exercise and Sport Physiology

A2 Unit 4: The improvement of effective
performance and the critical evaluation of
practical activities in Physical Education
(Practical: 15% of A-Level)
You will be assessed in one chosen activity and in a
response to a live performance.
AS Unit 1: An Introduction to Physical Education
(2 hour exam: 60% of AS, 30% of A-Level) Goes well with . . .
This unit is divided into three sections: PE goes well with any ‘A’ Level, but could make a very
useful combination of subjects with Leisure, Biology and
Section A - Anatomy and Physiology
Business Studies.
• The skeletal and muscular systems
• Motion and movement For advice
Contact Miss D Horspool
• The cardiovascular and respiratory systems in relation to
the performance of physical activity Email
dhorspool@arthurterry.bham.sch.uk

Few sportsmen or women make a living as a professional competitor, but A-Level PE is useful for anyone interested in
physiotherapy, coaching and sports administration. The course develops valuable team skills, communication skills, self-
confidence and independent learning, which are vital in any career and profession.

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Biology Exam Board: OCR

AS Biology studies animals and plants at greater depth than at GCSE. You will be
expected to do more independent learning than before. Practical work is an integral part
of the course and you will learn to think critically about aspects of Biology that impinge
on everyday life. The aims of A-Level Biology are:
• To understand essential biological facts, concepts and principles.
• To promote the importance of experimental work.
• To realise that Biology plays an important role in our society.
• o give a sound base for students who simply wish to study Biology to A-Level, but at
T
the same time provide an excellent foundation for Science degrees at university.
The specification ensures that students who have a good Science GCSE background
will be able to successfully understand wider aspects of the subject with ease.

Course outline • Biotechnology and Gene Technologies
• Ecosystems, Populations and Sustainability
AS Unit 1: Cells, Exchange and Transport
(1 hour exam: 30% of AS, 15% of A-Level) • Plant tropisms and hormones
• Cell Structure, Cell Membranes and transport • Animal Responses: The Brain and Muscles
• Cell division, diversity and Cellular Organisation • Animal Behaviour
• Breathing, Blood & blood vessels
A2 Unit 6: Practical Skills 2
• Lymph & tissue fluid, Heart & Circulation (10% of A-Level)
• Plant transport of water and nutrients in xylem and Students will also have the opportunity to attend a
phloem residential field course, to study ecological techniques.

AS Unit 2: Molecules, Biodiversity, Food and Goes well with . . .
Health Biology can be combined with any other subjects but goes
(1 hour 45 min exam: 50% of AS, 25% of A-Level) particularly well with Chemistry and Psychology.
• Biological Molecules (Biochemistry), DNA and RNA
For advice
• Enzymes and their reactions Contact Mr G Singh
• Biodiversity, Classification and Evolution
• Conservation of animal and plant species Email
gsingh@arthurterry.bham.sch.uk
• Healthy Diet and Food Production
• Health, Immunity and Diseases

AS Unit 3: Practical Skills in Biology 1
(20% of AS, 10% of A-Level)

A2 Unit 4: Communication, Homeostasis and
Energy
• Hormones and the Nervous System
• The Kidney and Excretion
• Photosynthesis and Respiration

A2 Unit 5: Control, Genomes and Environment
• Protein synthesis using the genetic code
• Meiosis, Variation and Selection

Biology can be used as an entry qualification for a wide variety of courses at higher education. These include traditional
Biological topics, medicine, dentistry, midwifery, physiotherapy, sports science and environmental science.

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Chemistry Exam Board: AQA

A-Level Chemistry studies the fundamental concepts of Physical Chemistry (energy and
rates of reaction), Inorganic Chemistry (patterns in the elements of the periodic table)
and Organic Chemistry (carbon based molecules). You will be expected to do more
independent learning than before. Practical work is an integral part of the course and
you will learn to think critically about aspects of Chemistry that impinge on our modern
society. The aims of A-Level Chemistry are:
• To understand essential chemical facts, concepts and principles.
• To promote the importance of experimental work.
• To realise that Chemistry plays an important role in our society.
• o give a sound base for students who simply wish to study Chemistry to AS level, but
T
at the same time provides an excellent foundation for Physical and Biological Science
University Degrees.
The specification ensures that if you have a good Science GCSE background you will be
able to successfully understand wider aspects of the subject with ease.

Course Outline • Redox reactions • Amines
• Group 7: The Halogens • Amino Acids
AS Unit 1: Foundation • Group 2: The Alkaline Earth metals • Polymers
Chemistry
• Extraction of metals • Organic Synthesis and Analysis
(1 hour 15 min exam: 331/3% of AS,
162/3% of A-Level) • Haloalkanes • Structure Determination
• Atomic Structure • Alkenes
• Alcohols
A2 Unit 5: Energetics, Redox
• Amount of substance
and Inorganic Chemistry
• Bonding • Analytical Techniques
(1 hour 45 min exam: 20% of
• Periodicity A-Level)
AS Unit 3: Investigative and
• Introduction to Organic Chemistry • Thermodynamics
Practical Skills
• Alkanes (20% of AS, 10% of A-Level) • Periodicity
You will be expected to carry out a • Redox Equilibria
range of practical activities through • Transition Metals
the year. You are assessed on your
• Reactions of Inorganic
ability to perform these tasks and
Compounds in Aqueous Solution
also on the collection and processing
of their data in written exams.
This is similar to the GCSE ISA A2 Unit 6: Investigative and
requirements. Practical Skills in A2 Chemistry
(10% of A-Level)
A2 Unit 4: Kinetics, Equilibria This unit is similar in structure to Unit 3
and Organic Chemistry
(1 hour 45 min exam: 20% of A-Level) Goes well with . . .
Chemistry can be combined with any
• Kinetics other subjects but goes particularly
• Equilibria well with Physics, Mathematics,
• Acids and Bases Biology and Geography.
AS Unit 2: Chemistry in Action • Nomenclature & Isomerism in
(1 hour 45 min exam: 462/3% of AS) Organic Chemistry
For advice
• Energetics Contact Miss J McConnell
• Compounds containing the
• Kinetics Carbonyl Group Email
• Equilibria • Aromatic Chemistry jmcconnell@arthurterry.bham.sch.uk

Chemistry can be used as an entry qualification for a wide variety of courses at higher education. These include the traditional
Chemistry topics of medicine, dentistry, midwifery, veterinary courses, environmental science, natural science and forensics.

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Physics Exam Board: AQA

This course is designed for you to progress smoothly from your previous GCSE studies
in Physics. You will develop in-depth knowledge and understanding of the principles of
Physics, gain hands-on practical skills and data analysis skills, appreciate How Science
Works and its relevance beyond the laboratory, see how Physics links to other sciences
and how the subject underpins important technologies and study optional topics so that
you can specialise in areas that interest you.
Course outline Section A: Nuclear and Thermal Physics
• This section builds on key ideas about particles and
AS Unit 1: Particles, Quantum Phenomena and energy from AS physics and covers probing the nucleus,
Electricity radioactivity, nuclear instability and nuclear energy as
(1 hour 15 min exam: 40% of AS, 20% of A-Level) well as the thermal properties of materials, ideal gases
This unit includes the following topic areas: and the kinetic theory of gases
• The nucleus including particles, antiparticles and Section B: Option Units
photons; hadrons and leptons; the quark model;
This section will provide students and teachers with
• Quantum phenomena including photoelectricity, energy opportunities to develop deeper knowledge and
levels and photon emission, wave particle duality; understanding in one chosen area of the subject:
• Electricity including electrical quantities, resistivity, • Astrophysics: lenses and telescopes, non-optical
circuits and components, alternating current. telescopes, classification of stars, cosmology

AS Unit 2: Mechanics, Materials and Waves • Medical Physics: physics of the eye, physics of the ear,
(1 hour 15 min exam: 40% of AS, 20% of A-Level) biological measurements, non-ionising imaging, X-ray
imaging
This unit includes the following topic areas
• Applied Physics: rotational dynamics, thermodynamics,
• Mechanics, including motion along a straight line, engines
projectile motion, Newton’s laws of motion, energy and
power, • Turning points in physics: the discovery of the electron,
wave-particle duality, special relativity.
• Properties of materials, including density and the Young
modulus, A2 Unit 6: Investigative and Practical Skills
• Waves, including longitudinal and transverse waves, (10% of A-Level)
progressive and stationary waves, refraction, diffraction The skills you will develop will be the same as at AS but at a
and interference. higher level of sophistication.

AS Unit 3: Investigative and Practical Skills Goes well with . . .
(20% of the A-Level, 10% of A-Level) The study of Mathematics to AS level at least will be
In this unit you will develop the practical skills of: essential to any student wishing to study Physics to A2
• Selection and use of various equipment level. The study of Physics will support work in Mathematics
and Chemistry and also in Music Technology.
• Processing of data,
• Making observations and measurements, For advice
• Analysing and evaluation of results. Contact Mr D Jones

A2 Unit 4: Fields and Further Mechanics Email
(1 hour 45 min exam: 20% of A-Level) djones@arthurterry.bham.sch.uk
This unit includes the following topic areas:
• Further mechanics, including momentum, circular motion
and simple harmonic motion
• Fields, including gravitational fields, electric fields,
capacitors, magnetic fields, electromagnetic induction

A2 Unit 5
(1 hour 45 min exam : 20% of A-Level)
This unit comprises two sections:

Physics is the basis for a wide range of degree level subject including Astrophysics, Electrical and Mechanical Engineering,
Medicine, Particle Physics, Nanotechnology and many more.

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Environmental Studies Exam Board: AQA

As the saying goes “if you aren’t part of the solution, you’re part of the problem”.
But by taking the Environmental Studies course you will definitely have an in-depth
understanding of the fragile world we live in. This course involves the scientific study
of how the environment supports us, how we threaten these support systems, and
strategies for a more sustainable lifestyle. Environmental Studies doesn’t just help
you understand ways in which we can save the planet....it also helps you to develop
valuable skills that will help in any walk of life. Like how to collect, analyse and evaluate
information in order to arrive at the big picture.
The first year of Environmental Studies covers two A2 Unit 3: Energy Resources and Environmental
main study topics: The Living Environment and The Pollution
Physical Environment. The ‘living’ topic includes wildlife (1.5 hour examination: 25% of A-level)
conservation, the conditions for life on Earth, and a study • Future problems of energy supply and how these may be
of land resources. Then the ‘physical’ topic introduces resolved
you to the three systems of our planet: the atmosphere,
hydrosphere and the lithosphere. In the second year you’ll • Properties of pollutants to explain why some materials or
delve into environmental issues in more depth. The first part forms of energy cause environmental damage
of the year is spent studying topics like energy resources • Minimising releases, treating effluents and managing the
and environmental pollution. The second part of the year damage causes by pollutants.
looks at issues like the impact of mankind, food production
systems and the important issue of sustainability. A2 Unit 4: Biological Resources and Sustainability
(2 hour examination: 25% of A-level)
Course outline • Factors controlling human population growth in relation
to the demands placed upon the planet’s resources and
AS Unit 1:
life-support systems
The Living
Environment • Food production and forestry systems
(1 hour examination: • Study of sustainability of human lifestyles.
40% of AS and 20% of
A-level) Goes well with ......
• Reasons why the Environmental Studies directly links with Biology,
conservation of life Geography and Chemistry. The subject also has links with
on Earth is important Geology, Economics, Politics and Sociology.
• Methods which
For Advice
may be used to
Contact Miss J Mason
achieve effective
conservation
Email
• Conservation in the jmason@arthurterry.
UK, coral reefs, Antarctica and tropical rainforests bham.sch.uk
• Ecological relationships between organisms and their
abiotic and biotic environment.

AS Unit 2: The Physical Environment
(1.5 hour examination: 60% of AS and 30% of A-level)
• Atmospheric gases, water and mineral nutrients
• Human exploitation and management of physical
resources to provide higher material living standards
• Unsustainable natural resources.

There are a number of jobs available that are directly or indirectly related to Environmental Studies. The following website has
up-to-date jobs available: http://www.earthworks-jobs.com/ . There are also many University courses linked directly to
Environmental Studies, these include: Environmental Science, Geography, Geosciences, Environmental Sustainability,
Environmental Management and Planning, Applied Bioscience etc. Also Environmental Studies in conjunction with other
subjects can be used to access a wide range of courses in higher education.

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Code of Conduct

Detailed guidelines are provided in the Sixth Form Planner
which each student receives at the beginning of the year.
However, the main points are indicated as follows :

• Attendance at lessons is an absolute priority. Students
who fall below a minimum attendance requirement will
become responsible for the payment of their own external
examination entry fee.

• Students must register with their tutor every morning at
8.50 am.

• Students should consider their non contact lessons as
independent study time. They will need to make use of
this time in the Sixth Form Centre or Library. ACCEPTABLE DRESS
• We expect Sixth Form students to show maturity and Girls
self-discipline both in and out of school and to behave in • Dresses, skirts (of a suitable length) or trousers
such a way as to maintain the very good reputation of the • Shirt/blouse, short or long sleeved
school. • Cardigan or V-neck jumper
• Sensible shoes
• Students must follow the Sixth Form Dress Code.

All of the above guidelines are common sense, and, of Boys
course, are upheld by the vast majority of students at all • Trousers
times. • Shirt with collar, short or long sleeved
• Cardigan or V-neck jumper
Sixth Form Dress Code • Sensible shoes
Smart Dress for the workplace
Note:
Tailored blazer, jacket or suit (with or without tie) are
Main Principle
optional for boys and girls
Dress that is smart, comfortable and
appropriate to wear to a school comprising
young people aged 11-18
UNACCEPTABLE DRESS
At Arthur Terry, we believe that, although it has unique • No denim can be worn
features, the Sixth Form is a core part of our school; this is • No trainers
reflected, for example, by the active participation of Yr 12 • No sportswear, beachwear or shorts
and Yr 13 students within our Vertical Tutoring system. • No extremes of fashion
Younger students do look up to Sixth Form students so it
• No leggings or jeggings
is important they present the highest standards of dress,
behaviour and respect and are “Leaders of Learning” within
the school.
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Index
BUSINESS STUDIES & ICT
• Business Studies & Applied Business 1
• Economics 3
• ICT 4
• Leisure Studies 5

DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY
• Food Technology 6
• Product Design 7
• Textiles 8

ENGLISH
• English Combined 10
• English Language 11
• English Literature 12

GENERAL STUDIES
• General Studies 14

HUMANITIES
• Applied Health & Social Care 15
• Geography 16
• History 17
• Law 18
• Psychology 19
• Religious Studies 20
• Sociology 21

MATHEMATICS
• Mathematics & Further Mathematics 22

MODERN FOREIGN LANGUAGES
• French & German 23

PERFORMING ARTS
• Dance 24
• Drama & Theatre Studies 25
• Fine Art 26
• Music 27
• Music Technology 28
• PE 29

SCIENCE
• Biology 30
• Chemistry 31
• Physics 32
• Environmental Studies 33

CODE OF CONDUCT 34

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Sixth form prospectus_main_2010

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