Prospectus 2025-2026 SIXTH FORM CENTRE IPSWICH NORTHGATE
2 Contents Welcome to Sixth Form Planning for your future.............................. 3 The application process..............................4 Why choose us?............................................. 5 What to expect.............................................. 6 A large range of subjects........................... 7 There's help at hand..................................... 8 What's inside... Enrichment Sixth Form Enrichment Programme....55 Ipswich Town Foundation Ipswich Town Foundation Post-16 programme....................................56 Your questions answered Students..........................................................57 Parents.............................................................58 Applied Science......................................... 50 Food Science & Nutrition.........................51 Health & Social Care..................................52 Two year Level 3 Qualifications English............................................................53 Mathematics................................................ 54 One year GCSE Course Physical Education.....................................39 Physics........................................................... 40 Politics.............................................................41 Psychology....................................................42 Sociology...................................................... 44 Spanish.......................................................... 45 Textiles........................................................... 46 Two year A Level Further Mathematics................................ 49 Two year Double A Level Extended Project Qualification.............47 EPQ Our courses Art .....................................................................11 Biology.............................................................12 Business Studies..........................................13 Chemistry...................................................... 14 Computer Science.......................................15 Dance...............................................................16 Design & Technology (Product Design)...17 Drama & Theatre..........................................19 Economics.................................................... 20 English Language........................................21 English Literature.......................................23 Film Studies .................................................24 French ............................................................25 Geography.....................................................26 German...........................................................27 Graphics (Art & Design)...........................29 History............................................................ 30 Law....................................................................31 Mathematics.................................................33 Media Studies.............................................. 34 Music................................................................35 Philosophy.....................................................36 Photography.................................................37 Two year A Level
3 Welcome to Sixth Form The Sixth Form is a vibrant learning community, where every student is valued as an individual. In Sixth Form lessons, teachers plan stimulating and challenging learning opportunities. These help students to make strong progress. Students are offered a range of opportunities including leadership roles and work experience. Ofsted 2019 Planning for your future This is an exciting time for you and provides an opportunity for you to decide where you wish to continue with the next step of your education. At Northgate Sixth Form we’re here to help you make sound decisions at this important time. We hope you enjoy reading our prospectus and use it as a guide to your options. …a little about us: Northgate Sixth Form is a friendly, welcoming community. Here you’ll find outstanding specialist teaching and excellent facilities. There’s challenging learning and extra-curricular programmes, parent/student support and a respectful culture, all geared at getting the best out of our students, ensuring they are fully prepared for higher education and the world of work. To find out more we have our Open Evening on Wednesday 9th October 2024 and for those who cannot make that event the website contains information related to subjects and the Sixth Form as a whole. Mr Alexander, Head of Sixth Form
4 The application process Our application process is designed to help you make the right decisions for your future. Every applicant is interviewed and below is what our offer requirements will consist of: Two year A Level study n At least 5 GCSEs, or equivalent qualifications, at grade 4 or above, including English Language and Mathematics n Subject specific requirements (see course pages) Applications to Northgate are welcome from the beginning of October 2024 n W e will invite you for an interview once we have received your application n Offers of provisional places will be made from November 2024 to April 2025 n T he closing date for applications is Friday 31st January 2025 Key dates Open evening Wednesday 9th October 2024 Closing date for applications Friday 31st January 2025 Interview dates Monday 25th November 2024 Wednesday 4th December 2024 Thursday 16th January 2025 Tuesday 4th February 2025 GCSE results day is Thursday 21st August 2025 Welcome to Sixth Form
5 Welcome to Sixth Form Why choose us? We have a track record of success and over 250 students from more than 30 different schools choose Northgate Sixth Form every year. From excellent exam results to flourishing personalities, here are some reasons for our widespread appeal: High quality n In the summer of 2024, 131 students secured a place to study at university; 27% of those were at Russell Group universities. 6 students secured an Oxbridge place. 4 students have gone onto study Medicine. n The Sixth Form is a vibrant learning community, where every student is valued as an individual. In Sixth Form lessons, teachers plan stimulating and challenging learning opportunities. These help students to make strong progress. Students are offered a range of opportunities including leadership roles and work experience – Ofsted 2019. n Specialist staff – students are taught by teachers that are specialists in their subject. n First-rate IT and study facilities with a high standard of specialist teaching areas. n Arts Centre: home to modern dance and drama studios. n Sports Centre: excellent sports facilities including a 400m athletics track and a fitness centre. Sixth Form students have access to Northgate Gym free of charge. Lots of choice n Wide range of subjects and possible combinations of subjects – 32 A Level and three Level 3 qualifications. n Variety of challenging and fun extra-curricular opportunities: from sports to music to theatre. As we are a large Sixth Form Centre, it is very rare for us to be in a position where we cannot run a subject that is advertised in the prospectus. However, if there are insufficient numbers of students to make a course viable we will contact students and let them know as soon as possible. We aim to do this by the end of March via telephone. A member of the Sixth Form Team will talk through other options and offer advice and support.
6 Welcome to Sixth Form What to expect Do more Life at Northgate doesn’t end with the bell. Instead of lessons, lunch, lessons and home, we provide a wide range of further opportunities, both academic and extra-curricular. From debating to dance, there’s something for everyone. Help out in the community through a variety of activities. Your own space Sit back, relax and socialise in the Sixth Form common room, a grown up environment for students to eat, catch up and make new friends. Students, have your say! The Student Union, with voting members from each tutor group, plays a leading role in promoting and organising student activities. So if you have a good idea, let it out. Make a difference and help shape your Sixth Form. …and you too parents Co-operation between students, parents and the Sixth Form is essential if students are to maximise their learning experience. We therefore arrange for parents to meet form tutors early in the Autumn term and for subsequent meetings with subject teachers in Years 12 and 13. Parents/carers are also welcome to write to or telephone the Personal Tutor or a member of the Sixth Form office team at other times to discuss student progress or other matters of concern. Northgate Sixth Form Ambassador Scheme We have a very successful student ambassador scheme at Northgate. A record number of students applied to become part of Northgate Sixth Form’s Student Ambassador Scheme this year. A staggering 90 students put themselves forward to support with promoting the Sixth Form and in providing help and guidance to prospective students and support for younger students. This overwhelming response is a true testament of how students not only feel proud to be part of Northgate Sixth Form, but want to actively encourage others to become part of the Northgate Sixth Form experience. Feedback shows that the Student Ambassadors have a hugely positive impact on students and parents, and with the biggest team of ambassadors to date, it is exciting to know that more young people than ever will benefit from meeting and working with inspirational students. Taking on the role also provides students with an opportunity to enhance their communication, interpersonal and organisational skills as well as boosting their confidence; attributes that are increasingly vital for successful university applications, employment and apprenticeships. Ambassador Scheme 2023-2024
7 A large range of subjects Two year Advanced Course These courses lead to degrees and diplomas at university and to professional, managerial and commercial careers. Students will study a 3 A Level programme with some form of enrichment to add to their profile. The Aspire Programme Places at universities, on degree apprenticeship programmes and in the workplace are increasingly competitive. It is therefore important that young people gain the knowledge, skills and experiences that they need to thrive and be successful in life. What is the Aspire Programme? The Aspire Programme provides students with opportunities to take part in a number of varied activities throughout Year 12 to help equip and support you to realise your ambitions with regards to moving on at the end of your time at Northgate Sixth Form. Whether you are thinking of university, an apprenticeship or entering the workforce, this programme will help prepare you for your next steps. The Russell Group Universities (and what they look for) This group is made up of twenty four universities that undertake the very best academic research, provide outstanding teaching and resources and have unrivalled links with business and the public sector. In short, they are usually the most competitive universities to get an offer from. We understand most of you are yet to think this far ahead, however, in order to maximise your application success rate, it is recommended that you have at least two A Levels from the following: Mathematics, English (Literature), History, Geography, a Modern Foreign Language (French, German, Spanish) or any of the three main Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics). Welcome to Sixth Form
8 Welcome to Sixth Form There’s help at hand We’re not going to spoon feed you, but we don’t expect you to do it all alone. Here are the many ways we support you: Tutors You’ll be part of a tutor group that meets daily for registration. During this time there will be an opportunity to discuss your academic and personal development. The Office Any questions or concerns can be discussed in the Sixth Form Office. Mr Alexander is the Head of Sixth Form, with three Assistant Heads; Miss Fowler, Mr Watson and Mrs Pope. Mrs Nunn is the Learning Support Team Leader with Sixth Form responsibility and Mrs Cheesman, our Admissions Officer are all happy to help. Sixth Form Support Officer Mrs Newbold is our Sixth Form Support Officer who is available to give emotional support and advice to students when they are facing difficulties and give advice on study practices and revision skills. Confidential Support We understand the sensitive nature of some things. This is why there’s an on-site counsellor and a caring pastoral team who are available and anything discussed is confidential. Careers Team We are here to help you prepare for your future after Northgate Sixth Form. You will find the Careers team in the Careers Suite, which is opposite the main school Library. Here you can browse prospectuses, careers books, look at leaflets and displays, use the computers to research course and career options and speak to a member of the Careers team about your next steps and future plans. Mrs Calder, our Careers Leader, visits lessons to explore all the opportunities that you have available to you on leaving Sixth Form, including college, university, apprenticeships, employment and volunteering. There are weekly Careers drop-in sessions and appointments can be made to discuss your future plans on an individual basis with a member of the Careers team via an appointment sign-up system. Throughout your time at Northgate Sixth Form you will have the opportunity to take part in a number of careers and enterprise activities. Highlights include our university and employer talks, the UCAS Higher Education Exhibition, Oxbridge Conference, Medics Conference, university open days and a Careers and Wellbeing Day at the end of Year 12. Group Size Most classes are taught in groups of 20 or less. This allows our teachers to provide a more personal learning experience. Learning Support Department If you have specific needs please contact Mrs Nunn: LNunn@northgate.suffolk.sch.uk for an informal discussion.
Eshal Previous School: Northgate Subject Studying: Geography, History, Psychology “Northgate offers a welcoming atmosphere with a supportive community that makes everyone feel connected.” Sophie Previous School: Holbrook Subject Studying: Biology, PE, Psychology “I came to Northgate as they provided me with good flexibility around my sport and gave me the ability to achieve good grades alongside it.” Student Profile 9
Georgia Previous School: Northgate Subject Studying: History, Law, Psychology “Northgate has allowed me to show my full potential in a supportive and encouraging environment.” William Previous School: Kesgrave Subject Studying: Economics, Business, PE “There is a wide breadth of subject choices. It is a warm welcoming environment that made me feel at home from day one.” Student Profile 10
11 Two Year A Level Art (Fine Art Endorsement) Course Overview A Level Art & Design allows you to progress an exciting and extensive range of creative and technical skills. It prepares you for a range of courses, but particularly those that demand problem solving skills and technical dexterity. Over the two-year course, you will be introduced to a range of working methods and materials which can be used to develop project work. You will also be introduced to a range of artists and movements to further your contextual understanding. Following the workshops, we ask students to start developing individual projects. You will also complete a range of substantial main pieces in response to the lively and rich set of project work in your sketchbook. This project will form the Personal Investigation and will be accompanied by a 3000-word research essay. In February of your second year, you will receive an exam paper that contains a range of stimuli to begin a second practical project. This will build towards an outcome that will be completed under timed conditions (15 hours). Why Choose this Course? The creative industries in the UK and further afield are thriving and an A Level in Art & Design has transferable skills that are valued in many professions. Art A Level also allows for self-expression and an opportunity to personalise your work, developing your own unique style and vision. Skills You Gain Art students develop a diverse range of practical skills alongside an ability to evaluate and interpret the work of others. Increasingly, students are also developing new media technology as a chosen media to work in. A strong Art training can also develop highly valuable transferable skills, including creative ideas development, problem-solving, contextual interpretation, and visual communication, as well as organisational, presentation, and team-working skills. After Northgate Many of our students continue a foundation course and then follow degrees and careers in a wide range of areas. These include careers in the Visual Arts, Architecture, Art History, Museum and Gallery work, Curating, Illustration, Graphic Design, Interior Design, Website Design, Games Design, Animation, Set Design, Film and Fashion Design, Landscape Architecture and Events Management. Minimum Entry Requirements Five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including: n GCSE grade 6 in Art & Design n A set task if Art not studied at GCSE Assessment n 60% Coursework n 40% Exam (Externally Set Assignment) Exam Board Edexcel Subject Lead Mr D Beattie Year 1 Components n The Formal Elements n Self-directed Personal Investigation Year 2 Components n Self-directed Personal Investigation n Personal Study n E xternally Set Assignment
12 Two Year A Level Biology Course Overview A Level Biology will give you an exciting insight into the contemporary world of biology. It covers the key concepts of biology with practical skills integrated throughout the course. This combination of academic challenge and practical focus makes the prospect of studying Biology at A Level highly appealing. You will learn about the core concepts of biology and about the impact of biological research and how it links to everyday life. You will also learn to apply your knowledge, investigate and solve problems in a range of contexts. Emphasis throughout the course is on increasing knowledge, developing competence and confidence in practical skills and developing problem solving. We will also discuss how society makes decisions about scientific issues and how science contributes to the success of the economy and society. Why Choose this Course? Studying biology is an interesting and challenging learning experience, linking key biological ideas and understanding how they relate to each other. It opens up a range of possibilities for further study and careers associated with the subject. Skills You Gain You will develop many transferable skills including investigative, problem solving, research, decision making, mathematical skills and analytical skills. By carrying out a range of practical tasks, you will become competent in: n Following procedures n Applying an investigative approach when using instruments and equipment n Working safely n Making and recording observations n Researching, referencing and reporting. After Northgate Biology is an excellent base for a degree in healthcare, such as medicine, veterinary or dentistry, as well as the biological sciences, such as biochemistry, molecular biology or forensic science. Biology leads to many career opportunities including biological research, medical, environmental, sports and science communication. The transferable skills you will learn are useful for many other areas, such as law. Minimum Entry Requirements Five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including: n GCSE grade 6 in Biology n Or 6/6 in Combined Science Assessment n 100% Exam n A practical endorsement (based on a series of practical tasks completed in lessons) Exam Board OCR Specification A Subject Lead Miss H Mosley & Miss R Mitchell Year 1 Components n Development of practical skills in biology n Foundations in biology n Exchange and transport n Biodiversity, evolution and disease Year 2 Components n Development of practical skills in biology n Communication, homeostasis and energy n Genetics, evolution and ecosystems
13 Business Course Overview Business A Level lifts the lid on business organisations and investigates what makes them tick. Functions such as marketing, human resources, operations and finance all have to work closely together in order to achieve the aims and objectives of a company. You will also look at influences inside and outside the business that might affect it, such as the economy. In your first year, you will learn what a business is and the types of business organisations there are along with how they are managed and led. You will then look at financial aspects of business along with the marketing, human resources and operational areas. The second year of the course considers a broader overview of business strategies, economic influences on the business, and how the different parts of the business react to these issues, as well as learning tools to analyse and judge the success of a business. Throughout the course you will learn about different models and theories within the units covered. There is a high emphasis on business and economic current affairs as these help bring the subject to life! Why Choose this Course? This course is for you if you have an interest in current affairs and like strategising. The subject is based on logic and how to solve issues raised through your subject knowledge. It’s important that you are interested in the economy and business news. Solid mathematical and written ability will help you considerably as will a willingness to share your ideas with other members of the group and a strong work ethic. Skills You Gain n You will be able to calculate and analyse the financial performance of a range of businesses. n You will learn how to make a decision and justify the best course of action based on your analysis. n You will learn how to calculate a wide range of financial & business performance formulae and how to apply your calculations in context. n Y ou will also have the opportunity to improve your written and oral communication skills through group work and activities. n You will learn how to apply real life case studies to business concepts within your written work. After Northgate Progression routes are University, apprenticeships or employment. Students go to a wide variety of destinations for university. Plenty of students progress to Russell Group universities to study Businessrelated courses at the Universities of Manchester and Leeds, for example. Minimum Entry Requirements Five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including: n GCSE grade 4 in Business n Or GCSE grade 4 in Maths and English Language if Business not studied at GCSE Assessment n 100% Exam Exam Board AQA Subject Lead Miss J Hyland Year 1 Components n What is business? n Managers, Leadership and Decision Making n Decision making to improve marketing performance n Decision making to improve operational performance n Decision making to improve financial performance n Decision making to improve human resource performance Year 2 Components n Analysing the strategic position of a business n Choosing strategic decisions n Strategic methods: how to pursue strategies n Managing strategic change Two Year A Level
14 Chemistry Course Overview Have you ever wondered how many atoms there are in a drop of water? Or how do different molecules interact with each other? Would you be interested to know what is inside the medicine you take? Our A-Level Chemistry course will help you discover answers to questions like these and transform your appreciation of the world around you. Our course will develop your understanding of unimaginably tiny particles like atoms, molecules and ions that you cannot directly experience whilst, revealing how the structure and arrangement of these particles affects the properties of materials. You will also learn how to describe and represent the structures and substances that will allow effective communication with other chemists. Practical work is integrated into every topic, and you will have plenty of opportunities to develop your experimental skills using extensive equipment and materials and collaborating with other students. Why Choose this Course? You will enjoy this course if... n You are curious about the nature of materials and how they interact n If you like imagining extremely tiny particles and how this will affect macroscopic objects n You are good at visualising objects in three dimensions n If you enjoy collaborating with other students on practical tasks and analysing data obtained in experiments. Skills You Gain You will begin by developing your understanding of the fundamental concepts in Chemistry. You will also encounter many completely new ideas for the first time, such as the angles between bonds in small molecules and the information that can be determined about structures by analysis of their interaction with radiation. You will also gain significant experience at applying maths to solve chemical problems. Your practical skills will be developed throughout the course. You will also learn how to describe and represent the structures and substances you encounter in a way that will allow effective communication with other chemists. After Northgate A Level Chemistry will be excellent preparation for university courses in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmacy and Engineering and a significant proportion of our students’ progress onto courses such as these. Chemistry is also an essential course for careers and university courses in Medicine and Veterinary Science. A Level Chemistry is also highly valued for entry onto other courses such as Law and Finance. There are also many non-university progression routes for example, apprenticeships or degree-apprenticeships in the pharmaceutical industry. Minimum Entry Requirements Five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including: n GCSE grade 6 in Chemistry n Or 6/6 in Combined Science Assessment n 100% Exam – 3 exams at the end of Year 13. Exam Board OCR A Subject Lead Mr P Silvester Components n Development of practical skills in Chemistry n Foundations in Chemistry n Periodic table and energy n Core organic Chemistry n Physical Chemistry and transition elements n Organic Chemistry and analysis Two Year A Level
15 Computer Science Course Overview Computer Science is a practical subject where students can apply the academic principles learned in the classroom to real-world systems. It’s an intensely creative subject that combines invention and excitement and can look at the natural world through a digital prism. The aims of this qualification are to enable learners to develop: n An understanding of and ability to apply the fundamental principles and concepts of computer science including abstraction, decomposition, logic, algorithms and data representation n The ability to analyse problems in computational terms through practical experience of solving such problems including writing programs to do so n The capacity for thinking creatively, innovatively, analytically, logically and critically n The capacity to see relationships between different aspects of computer science n Mathematical skills n The ability to articulate the individual (moral), social (ethical), legal and cultural opportunities and risks of digital technology. Why Choose this Course? There are more jobs available than people to fill them. If you want to earn a high wage, change the world or help people through medicine or through raising standards of living. If you want to create, to innovate, this is the course for you. If you like a challenge, to solve problems that people don’t even realise exist yet, if you want to be in control of technology and not be controlled by it, choose Computer Science. Be the future. Skills You Gain You will become a consummate problem solver, you will be able to think logically and come up with solutions to complex systems. You will gain some of the most sought after attributes in the jobs market. The ability to deconstruct the complex and make it simple, solvable, and robust. After Northgate You will be able to go onto degree level studies and carry on your journey, or undertake a internship with a company, which will teach you a job, whilst you gain a degree and be paid to do so. You can start your own company, the sky is the limit (Not even that, some computer scientists build their own space companies!) Minimum Entry Requirements Five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including: n GCSE grade 5 in Computer Science n Or GCSE grade 4 in Maths if Computer Science not studied at GCSE Assessment n 80% Exam n 20% Coursework Exam Board OCR Subject Lead Mr A Howard Components n The characteristics of contemporary processors, input, output and storage devices n Software and software development n Exchanging data n Data types, data structures and algorithms n Legal, moral, cultural and ethical issues n Elements of computational thinking n Problem solving and programming n Algorithms to solve problems and standard algorithms You will also choose a computing problem to solve. Two Year A Level
16 Dance Course Overview Dance at A Level aims to develop technical skill, deepen creative exploration and widen analytical and reflective practice through written and practical study. Over the two-year course, you will study a minimum of 11 professional works ranging from the pieces that were created during the emergence of modern dance in Britain in 1966 through to the most current contemporary works from leading practitioners and beyond. You will gain an in-depth knowledge of specific study areas as well as connecting areas of practice with your own developing skill and understanding. You will need a passion for dance and an interest in the mechanics and development of professional dance works including use of movement, theme, and features of production such as costume, lighting, aural setting and set design. Why Choose this Course? A-level Dance is a dynamic qualification which encourages you to develop your creative and intellectual capacity through a range of dance styles. The course provides the opportunity to acquire experience of performance and choreography and to engage in critical thinking about dance. The specification reflects both historical and current dance practices, making it relevant and inspiring, while at the same time promoting a healthy lifestyle through an awareness of the importance of exercise and training. A Level Dance is a healthy blend of coursework and examination, both practical and written. There is an expectation that much of the performance work is undertaken through rehearsal outside of the curriculum lesson. Skills You Gain Dance at A Level helps develop a number of skills; n Visual appreciation of dance and choreography n Balanced judgement n Information gathering and assessment Along with transferable skills such as team working, communication and problem solving. All of these are sought after skills by higher education and employers and will help you stand out in the workplace whatever your choice of career. After Northgate A Level Dance is suitable for anyone wanting to pursue arts or dance in higher education, or as support for any course requiring good communication or team-work skills. In addition to performing, choreographing and teaching, this course might lead to such diverse careers as dance therapy, events management, dance marketing or journalism. Minimum Entry Requirements Five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including: n GCSE grade 4 in English Language or Literature Assessment n 50% Exam n 50% Coursework Exam Board AQA Subject Lead Miss H Patrick Year 1 & Year 2 Components Performance and Choreography n Solo performance linked to a specified practitioner within an area of study n Performance in a quartet n Group choreography Critical Engagement n Area of study – Rambert Dance Company 1966-2002 n Set work: Rooster, Christopher Bruce n Area of study – Independent contemporary dance scene in Britain 2000 – current n S et work: Sutra, Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui Two Year A Level
17 Course Overview An A level in Design and Technology offers a unique opportunity for students to identify and solve real problems by designing and making products or systems. Design and Technology is an inspiring, rigorous and practical subject. This course encourages learners to use creativity and imagination when applying iterative design processes to develop and modify designs, and to design and make prototypes that solve real world problems, considering their own and others’ needs, wants, aspirations and values. The course enables students to identify market needs and opportunities for new products, initiate and develop design solutions, and make and test prototypes. Students will acquire subject knowledge in design and technology, including how a product can be developed through the stages of prototyping, realisation and commercial manufacture. Why Choose this Course? This course enables students to work creatively when designing and making and apply technical and practical expertise. Students will develop intellectual curiosity about the design and manufacture of products and systems, and their impact on daily life, responding to feedback from users, peers and expert practitioners. Students will gain an insight into the creative, engineering and/or manufacturing industries and develop the capacity to think creatively, innovatively and critically through focused research and the exploration of design opportunities arising from the needs, wants and values of users and clients. Skills You Gain During their time at Northgate students will undertake a series of focused practical elements of Design and Technology, that will help to build a greater understanding of the materials and processes involved in the manufacture of everyday objects. This will be delivered alongside theory sessions that allow students to develop a critical understanding of the wider influences on design and technology, including cultural, economic, environmental, historical and social factors. After Northgate Design and Technology fits in well with several different subjects. Students follow a range of different routes following their time with us. This could include avenues such as directly into employment or undertaking an engineering-based apprenticeship. In the past we have had students enter university to follow a wide range of design disciplines that lead directly to employment in associated fields. Design & Technology (Product Design) Minimum Entry Requirements Five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including: n GCSE grade 6 in a Design & Technology subject n Or grade 6 in Maths plus a set task if Design Technology not studied at GCSE Assessment n 50% Exam n 50% Coursework Exam Board Eduqas Subject Lead Mr J Jenner Year 1 Components n Students take a single examination in product design. The examination includes a mix of structured and extended writing questions assessing learner’s knowledge and understanding of: n technical principles n designing and making principles Year 2 Components n A sustained design and make project assessing the candidate’s ability to identify, investigate design, make and evaluate design prototypes. Two Year A Level
Page header Student Profile 18 Lottie Previous School: Debenham Subject Studying: Drama, Media, Psychology "I knew at Northgate I would be recognised as a person and not just a number." Ruby Previous School: Copleston Subject Studying: Geography, Health & Social, Sociology "I wanted a change, to meet new people and to gain more confidence in myself."
19 Drama & Theatre Course Overview Drama and Theatre at A Level aims to develop performance skill, deepen creative exploration and widen analytical and reflective practice through written and practical study. Over the two-year course, you will study a range of texts and practitioners which will provide you with the knowledge and understanding to explore drama as a practical art form, in which ideas and meaning are communicated to an audience through choices of form, style and convention. You will create, perform and respond to drama, while also exploring relationships between theory and practice in a range of theatrical styles, periods and historical, social and cultural contexts. You will need a passion for drama and an interest in theatre as you will analyse live theatre and experience ways in which theatre makers contribute to create theatre. Why Choose this Course? If you are keen on acting and interested in gaining a greater understanding of how theatre and plays work or are curious about issues and ideas and have a creative instinct for communicating your views through drama then this is the course for you. You will extend your ability to create drama through adopting a performing role, write about drama and develop your powers of analysis to become an informed critic. The course is a healthy blend of coursework and examination, both practical and written. There is an expectation that much of the performance work is undertaken through rehearsal outside of the curriculum lesson. Skills You Gain Drama allows for personal development and emotional understanding. Activities help to build essential skills for success in wider studies, future pursuits and life in general. n Communication n Confidence n Teamwork and Leadership n Listening and Responding n Creativity n Critical thinking and Problem Solving All are sought after skills by higher education and employers that will help you stand out in the workplace whatever your choice of career. After Northgate A Level Drama and Theatre is suitable for anyone wanting to pursue arts or drama in Higher Education, or as support for any course requiring good communication or team-work skills. In addition to performing, directing and teaching, this course might lead to employment in drama therapy, arts organisations, media companies, hospitality and leisure or educational institutions. Minimum Entry Requirements Five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including: n GCSE grade 4 in Drama n Or GCSE grade 4 in English Language or Literature if Drama not studied at GCSE Assessment n 40% Exam n 60% Coursework Exam Board Pearson Subject Lead Miss H Patrick Year 1 & Year 2 Components n Devising – Performance of an original piece of drama, supported by a portfolio n Text in Performance – Externally assessed monologue/ duologue and group performance n Theatre makers in practice – Written exam Two Year A Level
20 Economics Course Overview Economics at A Level is an exciting and dynamic course, appealing to students who are interested in understanding the world we live in. It is both challenging and exceptionally rewarding and opens many doors. It doesn’t matter if you haven’t studied economics before. You might have an interest in economics and want to know more about the impact economics has on the world around you. You might want to investigate some of the stories you hear in the news – Why do some economies grow and others don’t? How to global events impact our daily lives? Why are some people exceptionally wealthy and others are not? This course will help you to understand all this and much more. The A Level in Economics covers a broad range of issues on both a local and global level. Areas include: Financial Economics, Development Economics, International Trade Economics, and Business Economics. Why Choose this Course? Studying Economics will help you develop transferable skills that will prepare you for studying at university or moving into the world of work. It is held in very high regard by universities (including Russell Group) and by many employers. Not only will the study of economics enrich your understanding of the world and current affairs, but it will enhance and support your study of many other subjects. Economics often appeals to students who have an inquisitive mind, an ability in mathematics and interested society – Economics is classified as a Social Science or Humanity subject. Skills You Gain Economics is a highly analytical course, challenging students to use and interpret current data to corroborate and justify choices. It is also discussive, with debates around economic issues such as inequality, immigration and how we should pay for health care. Economists will often discuss a range of alternative courses of action to solve complex problems (although we don’t claim to have all the answers). After Northgate Economics students can follow a vast range of careers in industry, commerce, finance, journalism, politics, and the civil service. Suitable higher education courses include economics degrees or degrees in applied economics such as environmental economics, labour economics, public sector economics or development economics. Economics will also open the door to many opportunities to enrol on a degree level apprenticeship scheme, including in the field of accountancy. Minimum Entry Requirements Five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including: n GCSE grade 5 in Mathematics n And a GCSE grade 5 in either English Literature or Language Assessment n 100% exam Exam Board Edexcel (Economics A) Subject Lead Mr W Pierce Year 1 Components n Theme 1: Introduction to markets and market failure n Theme 2: The UK economy – performance and policies Year 2 Components n Theme 3: Business behaviour and the labour market n Theme 4: A global perspective Two Year A Level
21 Course Overview English Language at A Level provides students with a unique opportunity to see their own language and methods of communication in a completely different light whilst developing essential critical thinking skills. Within the context of its long history of development we look at how our language creates, reflects and represents our identity and culture through analytical and sociolinguistic study. Over the two-year course you will explore a wide range of genres, texts and discourses to consider how language constructs and conveys ideas about the world around you. You will also study how we acquire language as children, how it is influenced by geography, ethnicity, gender, age and class and how it has changed over time and continues to change here, and throughout the world. Why Choose this Course? We are exposed to language and the effects of its use in every aspect of our lives; it is so self-evident we are barely aware of just how important it is. The words we choose, the topics we discuss, the things we read or are exposed to, consciously and subconsciously, have a direct influence on our thoughts, perceptions and actions, and our attitudes to other English language users. This course allows you to fully explore the ways language is used in all its forms to create meaning whilst developing your own critical thinking, communication, and original writing skills. Skills You Gain You will understand how to communicate effectively, engage with how language creates meaning and representation, critically assess information and challenge assumptions and become aware of the wider context and subtext of language. In a world where communication is increasingly key to understanding wider issues and discourses, you will develop both critical and practical communication skills useful in all aspects of life. After Northgate A-Level English Language can help you to develop a wide range of highly respected transferable skills for both work and further study. These include analytical skills, critical thinking, research skills and communication skills, making it a highly valued qualification. English Language combines well with many other areas of future study and can lead to a huge variety of further study programmes and career paths, including Journalism, Teaching, Marketing, Human Resources and Advertising. Minimum Entry Requirements Five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including: n GCSE grade 6 in English Language or Literature Assessment n 80% Exam n 20% Coursework Exam Board AQA Subject Lead Mrs C Wright & Miss G Smy Year 1 Components n Introduction to methods of language analysis n Analysis of how texts use language n Study of language and diversity, wider discourses n Directed critical writing n NEA 1: Original Writing and Commentary Year 2 Components n NEA 2: Language Investigation n Children’s language development, history of language change, language and technology n Study of English as a global language n Study of World Englishes English Language Two Year A Level
Page header Student Profile 22 Rebecca Previous School: Copleston Subject Studying: Biology, English Lit, Maths “I chose Northgate for the support and sense of community I felt from everyone.” Beth Previous School: Claydon Subject Studying: Biology, Chemistry, Food “Settling in was easy and I found friends straight away.”
23 Course Overview A Level English Literature gives students the opportunity to delve into a range of different texts from literature throughout time. We use independent work, group work, presentations and class discussions to expose students to an array of contexts, interpretations and reader responses. Over the two-year course, you will study a range of prose, drama and poetry texts from literature across time. You will get to know six core texts in depth and learn how to consider the contexts in which they were written and received as well as how different readers and audiences have responded over time. You will discover critical theory and how experts have responded to the texts as well as weigh up whether you agree with them or not. English Literature will not only give you an in depth understanding of literature through the ages but it will also give you the opportunity to improve your planning, writing and analytical skills. Why Choose this Course? If you enjoy reading or studying a range of different texts, English Literature is for you. The A Level course gives us time to study texts in more time and greater depth than at GCSE, so you can really get to the know the texts and their contexts. However, you don’t have to have a love of reading to enjoy this course, an interest in history, psychology, sociology or drama can be just as valuable in the English Literature classroom. The NEA coursework element gives you the chance to choose your own texts to read, research and write about and is a great opportunity for you to take your study in a direction that interests you. Skills You Gain English Literature embeds the skills that are essential for communicating in the modern world. With textual analysis, inferred meanings and academic style increasingly more important in making you stand out from others, English Literature is just as relevant today as it always has been. You will gain skills in working independently and in groups as well as developing confidence in airing your own opinions in front of others and building your confidence in both the spoken and written word. You will learn key analytical skills so that you will be able to read any text and be aware of how meaning is generated and how readers might respond. After Northgate Any university will recognise and value an A Level in English Literature and it is suitable for any area of further education, with alumni going on to study everything from journalism to biochemistry. English Literature goes well with many combinations of other subjects you may go on to study, including History, Sociology, Psychology, Drama, Media, Criminology, Law, Business – the list really is endless. Minimum Entry Requirements Five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including: n GCSE grade 6 in English Language or Literature Assessment n 80% Exam n 20% Coursework Exam Board AQA Specification A Subject Lead Mrs C Wright & Miss G Smy Year 1 Components n An introduction modern literature n The Great Gatsby, Othello, pre 1900 poetry n Unseen poetry comparison n Start the NEA – coursework unit Year 2 Components n Finish the NEA – coursework unit n All My Sons, One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, Feminine Gospels n Unseen prose English Literature Two Year A Level
24 Film Studies Course Overview Film Studies at A Level provides students with an overview of film over the last 100 years. We take both an analytical and practical approach that looks at all aspects of cinema, spectatorship and meaning. Over the two-year course, you will study 15 films including texts ranging from American blockbusters to independent British film and beyond. You will consider your role as spectator in the construction of meaning and examine film as an aesthetic art form, a storytelling medium and how films reflect their social and political contexts Film Studies not only enables you to understand how films both make meaning and reflect wider societal values, but will also develop your own filmmaking skills and put theory into practise. We also study a range of short films in preparation for your own short film production. Why Choose this course? Film is one of the main cultural innovations of the last 100 years and an increasingly important part of our society. If you are enthusiastic and excited by cinema then this course is for you. Whether it be a passion for mainstream Hollywood or a love of experimental world cinema, Film Studies offers a breadth of learning experiences. You will study a highly diverse series of films which reflect global, ethnic and cultural experiences. Production work is an integral part of the course and you will have an opportunity to apply your knowledge and understanding of how films are constructed as you will create your own five minute piece of cinema. Skills You Gain It will enhance your understanding of critical approaches to film and how to apply them. Films are studied within their key contexts, including social political and industrial influences. You will learn key analytical skills so that you will be able to freely ‘read’ films and be aware of how meaning is generated and how spectators respond to film. After Northgate Film Studies is a well-regarded A level that is suitable for those interested in further education in many subjects including English Literature, English Language, History, Sociology, Art, Photography and Media and Cultural studies at a degree level. It may also be useful for a career in television, film, radio or journalism. Minimum Entry Requirements Five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including: n GCSE grade 4 in English Language or Literature Assessment n 70% Exam n 30% Coursework Exam Board Eduqas Subject Lead Mr I Bailey Year 1 Components n American Film since 2005 n Hollywood Film 19301990 n British Film since 1995 n Global Film (European) Year 2 Components n Global Film (outside Europe) n Documentary Film n Silent Film n Experimental Film n Short Film Production Two Year A Level
25 French Course Overview French is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world, and this makes its study at A level a great opportunity to develop competence in speaking like a native speaker. At Northgate Sixth Form, you will enjoy our purpose-built Language Centre which will give you access to the latest ICT facilities to support your language learning and keep abreast of developments on current issues. Study is supported and enriched through links with our partner school in Saint Etienne, where you will live and study for a week in the spring term of Year 12. We start the course by reviewing the acquisition of vocabulary, grammar, structure and language skills at GCSE and close every gap that may hinder your ability to study and discuss the A level topics. Lessons are mostly in French. You will study a novel and a film, then conduct and present a research project. We use the AQA A Level Coursebooks, along with Kerboodle and authentic French materials. The units are assessed at the end of Year 13. Why Choose this course? France has a lot of fashion, cosmetic, designer, perfume and automobile industries. With the growth of marketing and business on the internet, there are so many opportunities for translators to work with music labels, product labels, sports, music, entertainment and the media industries. The French automobile industry, French cuisine and tourism, are areas with mega employment opportunities for French language graduates. A level French prepares you to open these doors and enjoy a bright, fulfilling future. On average, linguists earn £145,000 more than their peers over their career. Skills You Gain This course will help you improve your ability to communicate effectively both in speaking and writing. It will also develop your research, critical and analytical skills. You will gain an ability to access French easily in a variety of formats. Above all, it will make sustaining longer conversations in French, even with native speakers, such an enjoyable experience for you. After Northgate Depending on your choice, you can continue your studies by pursuing a degree in French or International/European Studies. You can also combine your other A Level subjects for entry to other degree courses, and ultimately pursue careers in the business world, civil service, Diplomatic Service, education, tourism, music and entertainment, interpreting and translating, politics, banking, intelligent services, medicine and academia. Minimum Entry Requirements Five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including: n GCSE grade 6 in French Assessment n 50% Unit 1 Listening, Reading and Writing n 20% Unit 2 Writing n 30% Unit 3 Speaking Exam Board AQA Subject Lead Dr VC Ohakwe Year 1 Components n The Traditional and the Modern Family n Cyberspace n Charity n Cultural Heritage n Contemporary Francophone Music n Cinema Year 2 Components n Positive Aspects of a Diverse Society n Life at the Margins of Society n Criminality n Youth, Voting Rights & Political Engagement n Protests & Strikes n Politics & Immigration Two Year A Level
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