Welcome

Dear Student, Parent/Carer Reasons to choose I am delighted to take this opportunity to introduce you to D6, our sixth form at Academy. Building on our success in KS4, the sixth form will ensure that all students succeed and will gain the qualifications and experiences to become confident, happy • You will have a programme of study and well-rounded young adults. We will enable students to be fully that has been developed from your prepared for the next steps beyond school and on to University previous courses. These pathways are and the world of work. Our new facilities, located in the heart of important for continued success. the community, will provide a highly supportive, friendly, adult and •  There is a very wide range of subjects purposeful learning environment, through the teaching and tutoring from which to choose. of our very well qualified staff. •  You will be taught by teachers who In this prospectus, you will see the very extensive list of academic know you and can respond to your and vocational courses available to choose from, which are mainly particular needs. at level 3 (A levels and equivalent). Our special relationship with •  You will be taught in small groups and College (as sponsors of the Academy) also means that will receive personal attention. we are able to provide joint courses that cater for specific needs, whilst still retaining the familiar pastoral support and mentoring. •  You will receive lots of help with However, university admissions tutors and employers are looking university and job applications and for more than academic and vocational success – they want young organising the next step of your career. people who have a range of outside interests, who show initiative •  You will have the opportunity to take and enterprise, who are involved in voluntary and community activity part in a range of enrichment projects and who participate in the wider life of the Academy. That is why we and activities. expect all students in the sixth form to participate in voluntary work in the community, to support charities and to develop leadership • You will be part of a lively, friendly roles within the Academy. This is part of what we call ‘The Extended community. Project’.

I hope you will find this prospectus useful; however, there are many more opportunities for you to find out more information, either by visiting the Academy or by speaking to our Director of Sixth Form and other key staff. May I wish you all the very best for your future pathway.

Derek Davies Principal A Distinctive Place To Be

The Sixth Form at Droylsden Academy will be a special place with a distinctive atmosphere.

We believe that every student deserves an opportunity There will be new challenges to undertake and we to reach his or her potential and we will have high expect all members of the Sixth Form to find ways expectations of everybody in the team, both staff of broadening their horizons, through academic and and students. The support and guidance to enable vocational excellence, travel, leadership, community young people to aspire to great things is at the heart of service and work experience. everything that we do. We want our Sixth Formers to be successful in whatever Although choosing to stay in the Sixth Form at they choose to do and we like to think that we make a Droylsden Academy will enable students to receive a difference to the lives of everybody who passes through continuity of support through one of the most important our doors. times in their lives, some things will feel very different. You will have your own specialist facilities in which to both work and relax, and you will be given constant support and guidance from your personal tutor.

“We believe that every student deserves an opportunity to reach his or her potential” Entry To The Sixth Form

We have to be sure that you will be able to cope with the academic demands of studying at Droylsden Academy Sixth Form. The entry requirements are therefore:

Entry to year 12 • Applicants from other schools will be expected to reach similar levels of qualification and will also be • GCSE passes at grade C or above in English and interviewed and a reference from their school will be Mathematics and at least four other subjects with sought. preferably a grade B or above in the subjects you intend to take to AS. Entry to year 13

• A good record of behaviour and attitude to study. • Each student’s work is reviewed at the end of Year 12 and progress into Year 13 is dependent on satisfactory • Individual cases where a student just fails to reach the performance in the AS examination and up to date entry requirements will be looked at closely. In such coursework. cases the general level of academic achievement will be looked at, as well as an estimate of the student’s potential and ability to cope with A Level courses, whether academic or vocational.

“We will enable students to be fully prepared for the next steps beyond school” Links with Tameside College

The choices made by young people at the age of 16 catering, performing arts or sports where the College are amongst the most important choices they will ever has a long tradition of excellence and can complement make. These days there is a wide range of opportunities the Academy by providing access to first class resources at 16 – different types of providers; different modes of and first class lecturers with current industrial/business study, part-time or full-time; vocational and academic expertise. routes; apprenticeships .... The highly successful partnership of Droylsden Academy and Tameside The aims of the Academy and the College are to College gives young people an opportunity to consider provide every student with a programme that exactly each of these options and still study close to home. By matches his or her needs and to ensure they achieve the working closely together we are able to provide young qualifications that give them a firm foundation for their people with a flexible choice of high quality learning future success. opportunities to suit their individual needs. That may be through the varied combination of A level subjects, it may be through vocational options such as engineering,

“The choices made by young people at the age of 16 are amongst the most important choices they will ever make.” The 16-19 Bursary Scheme

This is a government organised scheme whereby Under the scheme other students facing genuine students most in need of financial support will be eligible financial difficulties with such things as the cost of travel to receive a bursary of up to £1,200 a year. This group to the Academy may be awarded a bursary at the includes: discretion of the Academy.

• Students in care Full details and application forms are available from the Director of D6 • Students who have just left or are leaving care

• Students claiming income support

• Disabled young people who receive Employment Support Allowance and Disability Living Allowance

“This money is intended to help with the day to day costs such as travel, books and equipment” Our Curriculum

The Sixth Form at Droylsden Academy will be a special place with a distinctive atmosphere.

At Droylsden Academy our aim is to provide a rich Courses and varied curriculum that inspires students to achieve outstanding results and gives all the opportunity to A range of AS and A2 courses will be on offer at the engage in a range of enrichment courses. Our teachers Academy, some will be delivered in partnership with our are committed to delivering high standards of learning sponsor, Tameside College. and teaching using the latest technology. • AS courses will be completed after one year of study We take pride in forming excellent relationships with • A2 courses will be completed after two years of study students; each week students will have a tutorial session with their tutor. Students will engage in a range For students interested in studying BTEC Level 3 of individual and group tasks; these will aid student courses, Performing Arts, Catering and Engineering transition from Secondary to Higher Education or courses will also be offered. employment. • BTEC 3 will be completed after two years of study Making choices

Students should be encouraged to choose subjects that they enjoy and have been successful in. However, the combination of subjects chosen may be important to future studies or careers. Some universities will accept any combination of subjects at Advanced Level, while others prefer a specific combination. It is very important that students have sought clear guidance from the Academy about the combination of courses that they “Inspires students to wish to study. achieve outstanding results” A Level Physics A Level Chemistry A Level Biology A Level Maths

Course overview Course overview Course overview Course overview Physics is the study of how the universe works and this The course aims to develop your knowledge and Biology is literally the study of life and you should study Maths is about solving problems and is a challenging and course will develop your knowledge and understanding understanding of Chemistry. We will ensure that your this subject if you are interested in how living things work. rewarding subject which is highly regarded by employers of Physics by discussing many new ideas relevant to learning is enjoyable, challenging and relevant to Biology is an exciting and fast moving Science, with and universities. Pure Maths provides methods involving today’s modern world. You will gain a wide-ranging contemporary issues by building on the concepts of How new discoveries being made every week, particularly in algebra, trigonometry, coordinate geometry and calculus and fundamental view of the nature of matter and the Science Works that are introduced at GCSE. genetics and in the fight against disease, both of which which can be used to solve problems in other branches universe. We will ensure that your learning is enjoyable, are studied here. of Maths. Applied Mathematics is divided into Mechanics, challenging and relevant to contemporary issues by Your lessons will involve a mixture of presentations, Statistics and Decision Mathematics. Mechanics is building on the concepts of How Science Works that are problem-solving classes, demonstrations, discussions You will be taught by experienced and enthusiastic about statistics, stationary bodies and kinematics, the introduced at GCSE. and, of course, practical work. We aim to make your teachers who lead the class in discussion, practical work, motion of objects. Statistics is about data analysis and learning interesting, challenging and enjoyable - most videos and computer work. interpretation and Decision Mathematics is about solving Your lessons will involve a mixture of presentations, importantly, however, we want you to succeed in your problems often in a business context. This is a very Entry requirements problem-solving classes, demonstrations, discussions study of this subject. All learning materials and many versatile subject that goes well with any other. If you and, of course, lots of practical work. We aim to make interesting and informative videos and animations are At least grades BB in GCSE Science or a B in Biology. enjoy Mathematics then you can choose to study it for its your learning interesting, challenging and enjoyable; most accessible to all students from any computer with an own sake or to support your other subject choices. importantly, however, we want you to succeed in your internet connection. study of this subject. Lessons are usually teacher led and could involve Entry requirements investigations, discussion, group work and working on Entry requirements You will have studied GCSE Science with GCSE examples. Scientific calculators are used extensively Additional Science or GCSE Biology, Chemistry and throughout the course. You will have studied GCSE Science with GCSE Physics, preferably achieving a grade B. Additional Science or GCSE Biology, GCSE Chemistry Entry requirements and GCSE Physics and preferably achieved grade B. You need to have studied GCSE Maths at the higher tier and achieved at least a grade B. A Level Further Maths A Level Law A Level Art and Design A Level English Language

Course overview Course overview Course overview and Literature (combined syllabus) Further Maths is like Maths except that there is more of From catching the bus in the morning to using the internet The art course mainly focuses on two-dimensional media. Course overview it and it is more challenging. The course develops and or your mobile phone, the law influences everything we The course is designed to follow on naturally from GCSE AS Level English Language and Literature enables extends the topics covered in the Maths A level. If you do. Law is the subject for you if you have a genuine Art and Design and is intended to meet the needs of the students to reach a deeper understanding of the really enjoy Mathematics, and you are good at it, then interest in the Law or the English Legal System, if you those who will undertake further studies in Art and Design historical and contemporary forces that have influenced Further Mathematics is worth considering especially if enjoy an intellectual challenge or if you are interested in and those who will study subjects and take up careers for the literary and linguistic heritage of the English language. you want to go to University to study a subject that has becoming a barrister or solicitor. Law essentially involves which an Art and Design background is relevant Much of the reading for the course will be guided, but some Mathematics content. Further Maths students the study of the English Legal System and the system of you will also be expected to undertake some reading in The skills you will develop will be varied. Among them study for the Maths A level in their first year and Further Law Making in and Wales along with a detailed your own time. The course will encourage and develop you will develop a working knowledge of materials, Maths As and A levels in their second year. If you decide look at key aspects of Criminal Law, specifically in year skills necessary to analyse the ways that spoken practices and technology within Fine Art. You will be to take the AS level in Further Maths you will do 3 extra two. In your first year you will learn about who works in English is represented in both literary and non-literary encouraged to explore your personal ideas in response to units. If you study for the full A level in Further Maths you the English Legal System, the criminal offences of assault contexts. This will enable you to work towards a wider a range of subjects and themes to use the skills you learn will do an extra 6 units. and battery, actual and grievous bodily harm, the law of understanding of the way that language functions as a in order to interpret and convey your ideas and feelings. negligence as well as the criminal and civil processes. medium of communication; as a consequence, you will Lessons are usually teacher led and could involve You will also be encouraged to develop your imaginative In second year, you will consider in detail the criminal improve your own skills of analysis and self-expression. investigation, discussion, group work and working on and creative powers, and your experimental, analytical offences of murder and manslaughter, the non-fatal We hope that you will feel challenged and entertained on examples. You will use text books for each module and documenting skills. Along the way you will acquire offences against the person, the fraudulent and non- your journey towards this destination. which is sometimes supplemented by extra worksheets. fraudulent property offences and the key concepts of law. a specialist vocabulary, as well as a going knowledge Scientific and graphical calculators are used extensively You will develop analytical skills, the skill of critical thinking and understanding of the place of art, craft and design in You will learn through a variety of learning methods throughout the course. and problem-solving skills. history and in contemporary society. including class discussions, group work, short lectures, conferences, creative writing workshops and the internet. Entry requirements Entry requirements Entry requirements You will need at least a grade A at GCSE Maths. 5 GCSE’s at Grade C, including a minimum of Grade B in Art. Entry requirements A minimum of five GCSEs at grade C or above are 5 GCSE’s at Grade C, including a minimum of Grade B in required, including English and Mathematics. English Language. This course is delivered at Hyde Clarendon Sixth Form College A Level Psychology A Level Sociology A Level History AS Level French

Course overview Course overview Course overview Course overview Psychology can be defined as the scientific and We all like to think of ourselves as individuals, but we also To make sense of the world we live in it is AS French takes your study of the language to a more systematic study of human behaviour and experience. It enjoy living our lives in social groups eg at home, school and essential to understand key events, individuals, sophisticated level. You’ll hone all your GCSE speaking, listening, aims to describe, explain, predict and modify behaviour. in our leisure time. The attraction of Sociology comes from movements and conflicts that have shaped reading and writing skills, plus you’ll study culture and society in It is a fascinating subject because it is about you and examining such relationships; how we learn to be social; history. The course is made up of units of France. In A2 in Year 13 you’ll have the opportunity to read the me and “what makes us tick”. At AS you will develop how membership of social groups gives meaning to our study from the recent and less recent past, cream of French literature. What advantages will you gain from a broad understanding of the core areas of modern lives. You will learn how society shapes our ideas, social including British and world history. It gives studying French at this level? When you visit France you will be Psychology. These include theoretical perspectives on behaviour and cultures and, how, in turn, people interact us an understanding of human society and able to speak to the locals and learn more about their culture. It Psychology and the study of key psychological research. together and shape their societies. Sociology also explores individuals. History is interesting and stimulating will broaden your career prospects and give you transferable skills At A2 you will study topics such as relationships, forensic why people behave in different ways. For example, why as it links a world we know with things that that will enable you to learn any language more easily. The social Psychology and controversies within Psychology, as well some people commit crime and others do not. have now gone. Revolutions, wars, successful benefits of speaking French are endless. You will be able to watch as research methods and statistics. and unsuccessful movements all feature in exceptionally trendy French art-house films without subtitles, order Your learning experience will include discussion work, the study of History. Politics, Art, Religion and with confidence in the smartest restaurants and pronounce the You will learn through a variety of learning experiences reading, presentations and research. Economics all interact in the study of History. name of your perfume or after-shave. At University an A level in ranging from individual research, class discussion, group French will give you access to a wind range of degree courses such Entry requirements work, small group tasks, presentations and lectures. You will be taught through lecture, discussion, as Business, Politics, or Law; or take up European Studies.. No prior knowledge of Sociology is required. However, group work, video, audio, student conferences, Entry requirements The curriculum is made up of fun, exciting and relevant topics such we expect students to have an interest in society, culture university visits, field trips and individual as Travel and Tourism, Youth Culture, Education, Sport and Leisure, GCSE English Language, GCSE Mathematics and GCSE and identity. We also expect them to work hard! research. Science at grade C or above. Relationships, The Working World, Environment and Advertising. Entry requirements You can expect to do approximately 5 extra hours work a week if you want to be sure to get a good grade. A minimum of five GCSEs at grade C or above are required, including History, English and Entry requirements Mathematics. Students will have had to have achieved at least a B grade at GCSE This course is delivered at Hyde Clarendon Sixth Form in French to access this course. College A Level Geography BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in A Levels and AS Levels Performing Arts Course overview Most A level students aim for a place in higher education but A levels are suitable for direct entry into many areas of A level geography allows students to experience a Course overview employment. sense of wonder about our planet and to further their This BTEC Extended Diploma is a vocational course understanding of a rapidly changing 21st century world. equivalent to 3 GCE A Levels and is the study of Performing A levels develop and test knowledge and understanding of a particular subject through examinations and, in many cases, All this whilst developing a wide range of transferable Arts and Acting as an art form. You will develop a broad coursework, as well as developing analytical and critical abilities. A level students also develop advanced study skills and skills including communication, technology, cartography, knowledge of practical performance, dance and acting become adept in the use of information and communication technology. problem-solving, numeracy and literacy. Students will also skills by completing projects and assignments which are be given the opportunity to develop fieldwork skills and directly relevant to realistic workplace situations, activities and Most A levels consist of four modules, with the opportunity to attain an AS level after one year. study geographical issues and impacts. demands. The course is contemporary and engaging, providing excellent opportunities for progression to further education You will participate in a variety of practical workshops, have and employment. The course is made up of both physical the opportunity to study plays, different genres and styles Applied GCE/BTEC National Courses and human geography components where there will of theatre and dance. You will also have the opportunity to be natural progression from GCSE to GCE A/AS level, watch and analyse live performances as well as perform your These courses focus on particular areas of work (e.g. engineering, catering, sport) and are designed to equip students ensuring development of content. own work. with the skills to follow a particular career. BTEC National Certificates and Diplomas are also well-established ways of gaining entry to higher education. Additionally, students will study applied geography The course will appeal if you are interested in dance, drama or involving decision making. Students who continue to the theatre and enjoy a mixture of practical and written work. A2 will then study contemporary geographical issues BTEC Courses are characterised by an assignment-based approach. As well as studying their subjects, students develop skills in communication, problem solving, time management, information technology, working with others, design and and undertake fieldwork leading to a geographical Entry requirements investigation. creativity. Five GCSE passes, including a grade C or above in English Students will be taught by staff who will convey their (Language or Literature). Initiative and a willingness to work enthusiasm for this important subject. hard both individually and as part of a team. Entry requirements At least a grade B at GCSE Geography, passion and enthusiasm. BTEC Level 3 Advanced Diploma BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Engineering in Hospitality

This course is provided by Tameside College in This course is provided by Tameside College in conjunction with Droylsden Academy. conjunction with Droylsden Academy.

Course overview Course overview The Level 3 Advanced Diploma in Engineering will The Level 3 Extended Diploma in Hospitality will give give you the experience and recognised qualifications you the opportunity to develop personal skills crucial to to pursue career routes in Engineering, Design & success in a range of jobs in the hospitality industry. It Manufacture and the Automotive industry. The Advanced will prepare you for entry into employment at supervisory Diploma is highly regarded by universities since it level, for example hotel supervisor or chef. It will also combines significant academic content with applied and provide a progression route into higher education. relevant technology subjects. To reinforce your learning experiences, you will have A mixture of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, the opportunity to participate in trips, visits to hospitality will allow you to develop skills which help prepare you for events and organisations and educational study employment, university and life in general. Some of your experiences abroad. time will be spent in Engineering workshops, acquiring This Diploma is equivalent to 3 GCE A levels and practical machine shop skills and welding skills. subjects studies include team leadership and supervision; Entry requirements European cuisine; customer care; human resources and themed event planning and marketing. Five GCSE passes, including a grade C or above in English, Maths and Science. Entry requirements

This course is delivered at Tameside College Five GCSE passes, including a grade C or above in English and Maths.

This course is delivered at Tameside College The Extended Project

The Extended Project gives students the opportunity Universities value students that can show they have a to undertake a self-directed project on a topic of their broader, well rounded range of interests that go beyond choosing under the guidance of a member of staff acting the subjects that they have chosen as their academic as their mentor or supervisor and will introduce students options. Many Universities will use either a formal or an to a range of independent research skills. These will informal interview procedure to decide which students include consideration of issues such as credibility they wish to offer a place. This is particularly the case and authenticity of resources, project management on oversubscribed, popular courses. You may find skills, ICT skills and presentation skills. However, the therefore that your Learning Tutor recommends that main emphasis is on students working independently, you work towards an Extended Project equivalent to an improving their own learning and performance while additional AS level grade. Your ability to talk with interest developing their ability to plan, research, analyse and and enthusiasm about your project could make the evaluate. difference in gaining you the place on the course of your dreams.

“the main emphasis is on students working independently, improving their own learning and performance” The Enrichment Programme

Droylsden Academy will strongly encourage you to of working with voluntary groups from this country or become involved in voluntary and charity work organized abroad could give you the edge in landing your dream through our Sixth Form. The reason for this could not be university or work placement, as well as making you a more simpler. Competition for places amongst students going rounded person. on to University, Further Education or into the world of work has never been stronger. Here are some of the activities that you could choose: More students than ever are achieving top A level qualifications. Increasingly universities and employers Duke of Edinburgh are seeking other ways of choosing between equally highly qualified candidates. They are looking for skills Award Sports Teams and experiences beyond those developed in studying for Volunteering College Council academic qualifications. Having a portfolio of experiences Charity Events Community Events First Aid Leadership Awards Languages Web Design Dance Trips and Residentials

“More students than ever are achieving top A level qualifications” Personal Tutors

Personal Tutors take great pride in developing the whole One to one guidance meetings will ensure that each individual by providing opportunities to pursue ambitions student is on track to reach or exceed their potential and interests whilst nurturing skills and talents. in their chosen courses. Success and concerns are shared with parents at every stage through consultation A great importance is placed on the relationship meetings and written reports. student’s enjoy with their Personal Tutor whose focus it is to monitor progress, oversee personal development Pastoral and academic support for each student is key, and guide each student through university and job their achievements are core and highly valued by their applications. Personal Tutor.

Central to success is the student’s ability to develop independent learning skills, take greater responsibility for their own progression and contribute to the wider aspects of community life.

“Personal Tutors take great pride in developing the whole individual ” Support for students with SEN in the 6th Form

Support for Students with Special Support for students with SEN/disabilities Educational Needs • Special arrangements for external and internal We aim to provide the same high level of support to examinations. students with SEN post 16 that we provide throughout • Support with applications to Higher Education Key Stages 3 and 4. We will work with individual institutions. students and their parents to ensure the curriculum is accessible to those who may have specific barriers to • Support with study skills and independent learning learning. strategies. If a student already has a statement of SEN in Key Stage 4, this can continue past the age of 16. This will be assessed during the annual review in Year 11. Appropriate provision will then be made in line with the statement.

“We will work with individual students and their parents to ensure the curriculum is accessible” Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme is a nationally Through the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme recognised scheme and is the single most sought- students learn to take responsibility for their own after non-academic qualification with UK employers. planning, map reading and camping. The award All students studying in the Sixth Form will have the operates from Bronze and Silver, which some students opportunity to get involved in the scheme. will already have begun in Year 10 to Gold. Each level is more challenging and demands more responsibility It provides a balanced, non-competitive experience and initiative from students. Students who have been for self-development in a number of areas including involved in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme often community service, learning a new skill, physical comment on the independence, satisfaction and co- recreation and hiking and camping expeditions. The operative skills they have gained. focus is on enjoyment, responsibility, and trying out new things.

“All students studying in the Sixth Form will have the opportunity to get involved in the scheme” Higher Education and Work

From the beginning of Year 12 until A Level Results Day, Those students who choose not to continue their students will have numerous opportunities to find out studies in Higher Education beyond the sixth form about, and be supported through the UCAS process for are also guided by our Careers Co-ordinator and a applying for Higher Education. Connexions Personal Adviser. Through students tutorials there will be regular sessions for students to find out Students are provided with individual support by their more about applying to particular universities or colleges, Personal Tutors when applying to Higher Education and and to hear from professionals from the world of work. subject-specialist interview preparation is provided for those students applying to Oxbridge or other courses that have rigorous interview programmes as part of their admissions process.

“Students are provided with individual support by their Personal Tutors ” Manor Road Droylsden Manchester M43 6QD Mr D J Davies - Principal Tel: 0161 301 7600 Fax: 0161 301 7601 Mr A Whitehead - Director of Sixth Form Email: [email protected] Website: www.droylsdenacademy.com

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