FAKENHAM SIXTH FORM
PROSPECTUS 2021
Richard Evans, Principal Lianne Higgins, Vice Principal, Head of Sixth Form. CONTENTS
Welcome 3 Film Studies 27 Sixth form council message 4 French 29 Facilities 5 Further Mathematics 30 Our aims 5 Geography 32 Mentoring that works 6 Health & Social Care 34 Student Support 6 History 36 Learning / Financial Support 7 Information Technology 37 Transport 7 Mathematics 38 A Level Exam Results 8 Media Studies 39 Higher Education Destinations 2020 9 Philosophy & Ethics 40 Curriculum Enrichment 10 Photography 42 Courses 12 Physics 45 Psychology 46 Art & Design: Fine Art 15 Sociology 49 Biology 16 Spanish 50 Business 18 Sport 51 Chemistry 19 Textiles & Fashion 52 Core Maths 20 GCSE Mathematics 54 Drama & Theatre 21 GCSE English Language 55 English Language 23 English Literature 24 Parents’ Views 56 Extended Project 26 Parents’ Comments 57
2 WELCOME TO OUR SIXTH FORM
Thank you for considering Fakenham We attract students from a wide range Sixth Form for your Further Education. of schools throughout North Norfolk and further afield. Applicants will find Fakenham Sixth Form has successfully it helpful to visit the Sixth Form during provided post-16 education in North term time. This will enable them to meet Norfolk for many years. We offer courses staff and existing students, to observe that suit students of a wide range of lessons and to learn more about the abilities and interests in a dynamic wider aspects of Sixth Form life. and stimulating community with an emphasis on participation and academic You are always welcome to visit the Sixth Leadership Team achievement. Our students make Form, please contact Chris Howard to exceptional progress due to high quality arrange a visit on 01328 857012 or email teaching, excellent relationships between [email protected] staff and students and the high level of individual support offered. We look forward to meeting you.
Achievement and progress are good as a result of high expectations on the part of the tutors of what students can achieve. The tutors’ subject knowledge results in confident, self-assured learners who are provided with the skills to assess their own progress. Lianne Higgins Head of Sixth Form 3 A MESSAGE FROM THE SIXTH FORM COUNCIL
Welcome to Fakenham Sixth Form
We are here to ensure a smooth transition from GCSE to A Level. Your Sixth Form council members will always be around to aid and support. Your voice is heard through us so feel free to find us if you have any queries. We organise many fundraising events raising money for our nominated charity and the Sixth Form itself. We are thrilled to introduce you to the new sixth form site as well as our Sixth Form community.
We encourage you all to make the most of your Sixth Form experience and hope you enjoy your time here.
Sixth Form Student Council
4 FACILITIES OUR AIMS
In addition to general teaching rooms, the site’s facilities, which are for the Fakenham Sixth Form has key aims that exclusive use of Sixth Form students include an Art and Photography room, we believe are at the heart of student two multi-media teaching rooms with recording and editing facilities; a learning achievement. In partnership with parents resource centre with access to computers and a library, an ICT room and a lively we aim to: cafeteria. Students also have access to Science labs, Textile and Music rooms. • promote the development of students’ abilities through a balanced, coherent, comprehensive curriculum, appropriate to their needs; • ensure all students are offered equal opportunities to develop their potential throughout the Sixth Form; • develop positive personal qualities, sensitivity to the needs of others, and the ability to achieve sound personal relationships; • value students as individuals and members of the Sixth Form community, and prepare them to make a positive contribution to adult life at work and leisure in a rapidly changing society; • monitor individual student progress from entry to departure against objective measures of academic potential, offering intervention, support and counselling throughout that time.
5 A MENTORING SYSTEM STUDENT THAT REALLY WORKS SUPPORT
Student feedback is an extremely At the beginning of Year 12 each Fakenham Sixth Form is unusual and extremely important source of information, student is assigned a mentor fortunate in employing a dedicated Student indicating to staff both the who will work with them and Support Tutor. All students are required strengths of Sixth Form life and guide them through their studies. to attend a weekly tutorial lesson which how it may be improved. One The mentors and Sixth Form supports the transition to advanced level aspect that students always Managers advise and direct study and progression to university, training or comment on is how much they students on all aspects of making employment. A wide range of topics provides value the mentoring system. an application to university students with the opportunity to keep up to Students at Fakenham Sixth through UCAS. In addition to date with current affairs and consider their own Form are fortunate to benefit not supporting youngsters with role in the wider world community. In addition, only from the significant impact university applications, the Sixth students reflect and explore ways in which to of subject tutors but also from Form also make strong provision maintain their own health and wellbeing. personal mentoring by a team of for these students with other experienced staff. plans such as apprenticeships and employment
6 LEARNING FINANCIAL TRANSPORT
SUPPORT SUPPORT Buses Norfolk County Council provides Students are offered additional 16 – 19 Bursary Fund concessionary transport to and support with their studies. Students If students are in one of the following from Sixth Form for those students may be supported in class to enable groups, they may receive a bursary of who live in the catchment area. full access to the curriculum whilst £1,200 a year: For details on matters relating others are given the opportunity to to transport, please contact the work individually with the Sixth Form • In care or a care leaver, or are an Passenger Transport Unit on 0344 Support Tutor. unaccompanied asylum-seeking child. 800 8003 or visit www.norfolk.gov. • Claiming Income Support (or Universal uk/post16transport All staff are kept informed about Credit (UC)) in their own name. students’ special educational needs • Disabled and receiving both Disability MOTORCYCLES AND CARS and given advice about appropriate Living Allowance (or the new There is parking available on site for strategies for support in lessons. All Personal Independent Payments) and students who have been issued with students with Education, Health and Employment Support Allowance (ESA) a permit. Care Plans have an annual review (or Universal Credit as a replacement in line with statutory requirements for ESA). which parents are encouraged to attend. Students with parents on low incomes may be eligible for help from a discretionary fund with costs such as transport, equipment and study trips. For more information or an application form contact the Sixth Form Administration Office on 01328 857012 or email [email protected]
7 A LEVEL / BTEC EXAM RESULTS
Subject *2020 2019 2018 Subject *2020 2019 2018 A* – C% A* – C% A* – C% A* – C% A* – C% A* – C%
Art & Design 90% 33% 33% Health & Social Care 100% 86% 83%
Art & Design 75% 80% 100% History 60% 90% 100% Photography ICT 100% 100% 100% Biology 50% 75% 63% Mathematics 100% 69% 100% Business 68% 46% 44% Media Studies 64% 50% 38% Chemistry 78% 70% 80% Music N/A 100% 0%
Drama 100% 33% 100% Philosophy & Ethics 100% 78% 100%
Enlgish Language 100% 100% 70% Physics 57% 67% 75%
English Literature 100% 100% 100% Psychology 78% 50% 80%
Extended Project 100% 100% 53% Sociology 77% 73% 29%
Film Studies 58% 78% 33% Sports Studies 100% 100% 100%
French 100% 100% 100% Textiles 100% 33% N/A
Further Mathematics 100% 100% 33% Overall Pass Rate 100% 100% 99.3%
Geography 79% 90% 78% Overall A* – C 79% 73% 74%
*Awarded Grades 8 DESTINATIONS 2020
University Studying University Studying Anglia Ruskin University Sport and Exercise Therapy University of East Anglia Occupational Therapy Anglia Ruskin University History University of East Anglia Accounting and Finance Bath Spa University Biology (Conservation Biology) University of East London Business Management Bishop Grosseteste University Military History University of East London Computing for Business Bristol, University of the West Building Surveying University of East London Psychology of England University of Huddersfield Sport and Exercise Nutrition Canterbury Christ Church University Chemical Engineering University of Leeds Interdisciplinary Science Coventry University Business and Human Resource Management University of Leeds Geology (International) Durham University Archaeology University of Leicester Physics with Astrophysics Italia Conti Drama school Drama University of Leicester Physics with Astrophysics Kingston University Drama and English University of Leicester Operating Department Practice Loughborough University International Relations University of Leicester Physiotherapy Loughborough University History University of Lincoln Graphic Design Northumbria University Law University of Lincoln Drama and Theatre Norwich University of the Arts Fashion University of Lincoln Zoology Norwich University of the Arts Fashion Communication and Promotion University of Lincoln Criminology and Sociology Norwich University of the Arts Fine Art University of Lincoln Psychology with Clinical Psychology Nottingham Trent University Psychology University of Northampton Psychology Nottingham Trent University Psychology University of Northampton Primary Education leading to QTS (General Primary) Nottingham Trent University Fashion Design University of Northampton Psychology Nottingham Trent University Business Management and Economics University of Nottingham Sport and Exercise Science Sheffield Hallam University Sports Business Management University of Nottingham Mental Health Nursing University College London Mathematics University of Oxford Biochemistry University College London Biological Sciences University of Plymouth Ocean Science and Marine Conservation University of Cambridge Geography University of Portsmouth Criminology and Criminal Justice University of Chichester Psychology University of South Wales Master of Chiropractic University of Chichester Outdoor and Adventure Education University of Swansea Aerospace Engineering University of Derby Sport and Exercise Studies and Business Management University of Westminster Business Management University of East Anglia Nursing (Mental Health) University of Winchester Event Management University of East Anglia Adult Nursing Students gaining apprenticeship Eight University of East Anglia Geography Students gaining Employment Fifteen
9 CURRICULUM ENRICHMENT
Universities and employers look for achievements and involvement beyond the normal timetable and we are committed to providing a variety of enrichment activities.
There are opportunities to gain further qualifications through enrichment activities, for example by taking a course in sign language or First Aid. Students are encouraged to participate in the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award Scheme and National Citizens Service. Many students have taken part in recent trips to Berlin, Rome and Krakow (Auschwitz). In Year Sixth Form students join the Choir and range of opportunities for Sixth Form 12 all students are required to complete Band. They are also heavily involved in students including the Hawk and Owl work experience. All students have the theatrical performances including, most Trust; local Primary and Secondary opportunity to participate in sporting and recently, sell-out productions of Joseph, Schools; Pensthorpe Wildfowl Trust, other recreational opportunities every Our House, Bugsy Malone, Return to Amnesty International, North Norfolk Wednesday afternoon. the Forbidden Planet and High School Youth Advisory Board, Police and Musical. Crime Commissioner’s Office and the The Sixth Form has a strong musical Fakenham Area Conservation Team. tradition. Events include a concert Other activities focus on voluntary each term and annual Soiree for solo contributions within the community and The activities and opportunities vary musicians. Significant numbers of local organisations provide a diverse slightly from year to year.
10 11 COURSES
LEVEL 3 Students without a grade 4 in these Fakenham Sixth Form offers a varied subjects are required to retake the range of level 3 courses. Ideally students GCSE in their first year at Sixth Form. will have gained at least five GCSEs at We recommend that students should grade 5 or above for Level 3 courses. work hard to achieve the appropriate However, students with five grade 4s grades in Year 11 to avoid any delay by or above will also be considered. We having to complete GCSE examinations encourage students to commence four in the Sixth Form. subjects in Year 12 and to continue and complete three of these in Year 13. LEVEL 2 The Level 2 course at Fakenham Sixth Choosing the right subjects depends on Form offers students who do not achieve several factors. Students should discuss grade 4 or above at GCSE English and these fully with tutors, parents, guidance Maths the opportunity to enrol on a advisers and with Sixth Form staff. one year course to resit these subjects, Individual courses offered will run subject complete qualifications in work skills and to sufficient student recruitment. gain valuable work experience.
Most employers and Higher Education expect students to have achieved at least a grade 4 in both English Language and Mathematics at GCSE.
12 ISABELLE THOMPSON
Why did I choose Fakenham Sixth Form? I attended Fakenham Academy, so it was almost an instinctive action to progress to Fakenham Sixth Form. I already knew the teachers I would be working with, the environment, and how supportive all of the staff are. It was reassuring to know what to expect from the Sixth Form and they were willing to answer any questions I had. It is also most local to me and one of the few Sixth Forms that offer both Media and Film Studies.
What I value about Fakenham Sixth Form: For me, the relationship between teacher and student is highly important; having support is vital to having a good learning experience and helps you achieve your true potential. At Fakenham Sixth Form the teachers are always happy to have a conversation with you, whether that is work-related or not. Not only are the teachers caring but they also treat you as a young adult and positively push you to succeed. The Sixth Form classes are smaller meaning that it is easy to get to know everyone and there is more exclusive and individual assistance from teachers. I also love the facilities I work in: the Drama department, and Media/Film department. Overall, the Sixth Form is a wonderful environment to work in.
Plans for the future: I’m hoping to go onto studying in the areas of Drama and Film at University, which I hope will lead to me working in acting or the film industry.
13 14 ART & DESIGN: FINE ART A Level
WHAT WILL I NEED TO STUDY broad range of skills, refine and record WHERE NEXT? THIS COURSE? ideas and present a personal response. The course can lead either to This course will suit students who Students will also research artists and employment, apprenticeships or higher are creative and imaginative. Subject their work, reflecting on work critically education courses in art or non-related requirements are a grade 5 or above at with written analysis. courses. GCSE Art and Design or by portfolio. Through the second year students Edexcel A Level 9FAO WHAT WILL I STUDY? will continue to produce a portfolio of QAN 601/4958/9 Students work in a broad range of media coursework, together with a related and techniques, to experiment with personal study of up to 3000 words. This ideas and develop personal directions. places their work within an historical and/ They will gain an understanding of the or contemporary context and must be in work of other artists/designers from an essay format. Coursework counts for both observations and primary sources. 60% of their A level, with 12% of marks Students learn to work independently given to the essay. and to document from secondary source material. During the second year students will also complete an exam, Externally Set HOW IS THE COURSE ASSESSED? Assignment (ESA). This component is Assessment is judged by a combination worth 40% of your A level. It requires of two components, Component 1: students to produce preparatory studies personal investigation and Component 2: and personal outcome(s) based on a externally Set Assignment. theme set by Edexcel. The theme will be released to them in February of their Coursework consists of a personal final year. Students will have 15 hours investigation, where year 1 students will to produce their personal outcome or explore a range of materials, develop a outcomes.
15 BIOLOGY A Level
WHAT WILL I NEED TO STUDY The second year consists of a further THIS COURSE? four modules: Energy transfers in and Students need to have knowledge of between organisms; Organisms respond Biology either as a single GCSE subject to changes in their internal and external or as part of a GCSE Science course. environments; Genetics, populations, Students should have gained at least a evolution and ecosystems and the grade 5 in GCSE Maths and 6 in Biology control of gene expression. or a grade 6-6 in Combined Science. HOW IS THE COURSE ASSESSED? WHAT WILL I STUDY? A Level external exams consist of three The syllabus puts great emphasis on papers including critical analysis of given the practical applications of Biology and experimental data and one essay from a encourages an understanding of the choice of two titles. ethical, economic and environmental implications. The course helps students WHERE NEXT? to develop a scientific approach to This course could lead to a career in problem solving. Mathematical skills Medicine, Veterinary, Nursing, Zoology, and statistics are part of the course. Marine Biology, Pharmacy, Biochemistry, Students are expected to spend time Psychology, Molecular Biology, Ecology reading around the subject outside or Biomedical Sciences to name just the classroom. a few.
There are 4 modules in year one AQA A Level 7402 including: Biological Molecules; Cells; QAN 601/4625/4 Organisms exchange substances with their environment; Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms.
16 MAYA STAGG
Why did I choose Fakenham Sixth Form? I feel like Fakenham Sixth form is unique in the sense that it is a close-knit community for students and staff, throughout the 2 years studying your A-levels I believe you will feel sufficiently supported and urged to push yourself to achieve. The Sixth form offers a range of different subjects to study and with that comes the option to partake in numerous extracurricular courses and activities. As a whole, the campus is a friendly, encouraging and rewarding space at which everyone is made to feel comfortable and assured throughout their studies.
What I value about Fakenham Sixth Form: Personally, I value the amount of small class sizes within all of my subjects meaning that teaching is as a whole more tailored to your needs and ways of learning. I’d also say I respect the feeling that students have an overall more influential opinion on topic situations and matters of the college as a whole. For me, being at this Sixth form has opened up many new opportunities and career path ideas that I may not have thought of before, as well as providing a social and professional space where I feel like I can thrive.
Plans for the future: As of right now, I am hoping to attend university in order to pursue my interests in research-based psychology. Travelling and experiencing new cultures is important to me so a year working or volunteering abroad would likely be an option.
17 BUSINESS A Level
WHAT WILL I NEED TO STUDY • Decision making to improve human in Business. There are also a range of THIS COURSE? resource performance training and vocational opportunities Through this qualification, students will available. develop knowledge and skills relevant A further 4 areas in Year 13: to the business world through practical • Analysing the strategic position of a AQA A Level 7132 learning. They will begin to understand business QAN 601/4336/8 a range of business specialisms • Choosing strategic direction through investigating different • Strategic methods: how to pursue functions of business. Students will strategies develop communication, planning and • Managing strategic change team-working as a feature of classroom practice and activity. HOW IS THE COURSE ASSESSED? The course is assessed entirely WHAT WILL I STUDY? by examination. There are three There are ten areas of study – 6 in examinations for A Level. The Year 12: examinations combine a range of stimulus response questions from • What is business? multiple-choice through to short essay • Managers, leadership and decision style answers, some based upon making stimulus material that is read at the start • Decision making to improve marketing of the examination. performance • Decision making to improve WHERE NEXT? operational performance After successfully completing a Level • Decision making to improve financial 3 course, students can progress to a performance wide range of HND or Degree courses
18 CHEMISTRY A Level
WHAT WILL I NEED TO STUDY Module 5: THIS COURSE? Physical chemistry and transition Students need to have a good elements knowledge of chemistry either as a single GCSE subject or as part of a Module 6: GCSE science course. Students need to Organic chemistry and analysis gain at least a grade 5 in GCSE maths and a grade 6 in chemistry or a 6-6 in HOW IS THE COURSE ASSESSED? combined science. At A Level there are three papers.
WHAT WILL I STUDY? Paper 1: Chemistry is split into six modules: Multiple choice and structured questions (Modules 1 to 6), plus the Practical from Modules 1, 2, 3 and 5. Assessed in Endorsement, this constitutes the full A a 2 hour 15 minute exam of 100 marks Level. worth 37% of the final grade.
Module 1: Paper 2: Development of practical skills Multiple choice and structured questions WHERE NEXT? from Modules 1, 2, 4 and 6. Assessed in Chemistry is a challenging but rewarding Module 2: a 2 hour 15 minute exam of 100 marks A Level. It is a subject with a large Foundations in chemistry worth 37% of the final grade. number of career paths including: Medicine, Agriculture, Geology, Chemical Module 3: Paper 3: Engineering, Management and Law. Periodic table & energy Structured questions and extended response questions which assesses the OCR A Level H432 Module 4: content from all Modules. Assessed in QAN 601/5255/2 Core organic chemistry a 1 hour 30 minute exam of 70 marks worth 26% of the final grade.
19 CORE MATHS LEVEL 3 (Mathematics in Context)
WHAT WILL I NEED TO STUDY Core maths has three key objectives: THIS COURSE? • to deepen competence in selecting Students will need to have achieved at and using the correct mathematical least a grade 4 in GCSE Mathematics. methods This can be either having studied the • to develop confidence in representing Foundation or the Higher course. and analysing situations • build skills in mathematical thinking, WHAT WILL I STUDY? reasoning and communication This course is for students who wish to take their study of mathematics further, Teaching time will be 4 hours per but do not wish to embark on the full fortnight. A-level mathematics. It will support students who are studying other A-levels HOW IS THE COURSE ASSESSED? that make extensive use of maths. It is The entire course is assessed by designed for students to retain, deepen examination. There will be two exams at and extend their knowledge and skills the end of year 13. from GCSE, as well as studying and applying new level three material relevant WHERE NEXT? to their needs. Core Maths is a useful subject to support studies in further studies or careers that The primary focus is on using and make extensive use of mathematics. applying mathematics and statistics to gain a deeper understanding and solve EDEXCEL (7MCO) real world problems drawn from all areas QAN 601/4857/3 of study, work and life.
20 DRAMA AND THEATRE A Level
WHAT WILL I NEED TO STUDY member. In addition, an extract from THIS COURSE? ‘The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Students will need GCSE English Level Night-time’ is also studied. 4 or above. GCSE Drama is desirable but not essential. HOW IS THE COURSE ASSESSED? Units 1 is assessed by practical WHAT WILL I STUDY? performance and coursework (tutor moderated); Unit 2 is a performance Component 1: Theatre Workshop exam; externally examined by a visiting A re-interpretation of a text in the style of examiner. Unit 3 is assessed by a written a chosen practitioner. exam paper.
Component 2: Text in Action WHERE NEXT? 2 performances created by you. The This course can lead to further study in first is a devised piece from a stimulus Drama, Theatre Studies and Performing provided by Eduqas; the second is a Arts at degree level. It can be used as performance from an extract of a text part of a student’s course to broaden of your choice. Both performances are their studies and may lead on to a created with the influence of a theatre career in the Performing Arts industry. practitioner of your choice. It complements a range of subjects and is useful in building confidence and Component 3: Text in Performance. improving presentation skills in a range Written examination of careers. Practical exploration of the texts – ‘Cat on a Hot Tin Roof’ by Tennessee Williams WJEC Eduqas A Level Drama: A690QS and ‘Saved’ by Edward Bond. The QAN 601/8554/5 examination is based on your role as an actor, director and informed audience
21 DANIEL SERVAIS
Why did I choose Fakenham Sixth Form? I decided to choose Fakenham for a variety of reasons. The first was that it was the nearest college: I could travel to and from it conveniently, which made engaging with my education much easier. The second was that it had been recommended to me by many of my classmates at high school. The Sixth Form was able to maintain a high standing among students, which painted a very good image of the academy for me, one which has not been invalidated. Most importantly however, the teachers and faculties present for the subjects I was interested in - History and English - appeared more than capable of providing the education I sought, and have consistently done so.
What I value about Fakenham Sixth Form: Definitely the sense of community. An air of intellectual pursuit is always maintained. Even better is the approach to success in academics: I have always been encouraged to aspire higher with my grades by those at the Sixth Form, and even when I come short, the urge was always there to correct my errors, no doubt encouraged and instilled by the Sixth Form.
Plans for the future: At the moment, I plan to go to university and study History, as well as any other subject I might find interesting, from philosophy to international relations. I cannot be certain of the future, but what I can be certain of is the support given to me by the Sixth Form, both in providing me sources of information for what I might do and directing me in pursuit of my interests. There are things that intrigue me now that I never would have imagined a year ago; all part of discovering what your plans for the future are with Fakenham. 22 ENGLISH LANGUAGE A Level
WHAT WILL I NEED TO STUDY how children learn to speak and write THIS COURSE? and how world English and ethnicity may Students need an interest in the way affect language use. people use language (both written and spoken) and an ability to write clear The coursework unit will require students and controlled English. Students should to investigate an area of language in have achieved at least a grade 5 in both which they are personally interested, and English Literature and English Language to produce a piece of original writing. at GCSE. Students will be expected to read WHAT WILL I STUDY? around topics widely and to research Students will study a wide variety of outside lesson time, including into some written and spoken language analysing linguistic theories. how gender, occupation, social groups and region influence how meaning is WHERE NEXT? created using specialised terms. The This course leads naturally on to most challenging aspect of the course a degree in any subject involving is the substantial amount of new communication, work in the media, vocabulary that needs to be learnt to teaching, research, politics, almost any enable students to analyse writing and job involving skill in writing or speaking. use these terms confidently in their Some scientists also like to study it as writing. an additional subject to aid in training for medicine (e.g. speech therapy). As the course continues students will build on their knowledge of linguistic AQA A Level 7702 analysis and be introduced to the study QAN 601/4640/0 of how language changes over time,
23 ENGLISH LITERATURE A Level
WHAT WILL I NEED TO STUDY In their coursework unit in the second WHERE NEXT? THIS COURSE? year, students will produce an extended This course leads naturally on to a degree Students need a love of reading and essay on two texts, at least one of which in any subject involving communication, an ability to write clear and controlled will be their own choice. work in the media, teaching, research, English. Students should have achieved politics and almost any job involving skill at least a grade 5 in both English Through theme and context based in writing or speaking. Literature and English Language GCSE. analysis students will build their skills in literary interpretation and comparative AQA A Level 7712 WHAT WILL I STUDY? approaches, considering various poetic QAN 601/5327/1 During the course, students will study six forms, the rise of the novel, how plays core texts from across the three genres have changed over time, and much of prose, poetry and drama. The set texts more. This will give students an excellent for the first year include The Great Gatsby grounding, should they wish to go on to by F. Scott Fitzgerald, and Shakespeare’s study literature at degree level. Othello. Students will also study a collection of pre-1900 poetry, based HOW IS THE COURSE ASSESSED? around the theme of love. The exam 80% of the assessment comes through will ask for comparisons between these end-of-course exams on the set texts. texts, and close reading of extracts. The The remaining 20% is achieved through second year of the course will shift the one coursework folder of 2500 words focus to literature written after 1945, analysing texts comparatively. and look at the way it deals with themes such as class, race and gender, among many others. The most challenging aspect of the course is the amount of reading and research that needs to be completed outside lessons.
24 25 EXTENDED PROJECT A2
WHAT WILL I STUDY? WHERE NEXT? Students will investigate a topic of their Although it is not an essential part of choice beyond the normal confines of university course, the Extended Project an A Level qualification and in doing will provide students with excellent so demonstrate that they have many evidence to include on a personal of the key skills which are essential for statement. Successful completion of an successful university study. Extended Project shows that students can work independently, research, plan, HOW IS THE COURSE ASSESSED? argue and present. For this reason it The project may be an extended essay would be of real advantage for anyone on any topic (up to 5,000 words) applying to a university for any degree supported by a presentation (usually course. involving a PowerPoint) as part of the submission. In this, students talk about AQA A Level 7993 their project and answer questions from QAN 500/2409/7 a non-specialist audience. However, the project could also be a play, a piece of art, a model or a film, again accompanied by some form of presentation involving answering questions. For example, if the project was to create a work of art, this could be exhibited and the student could answer questions about the work.
26 FILM STUDIES A Level
WHAT WILL I NEED TO STUDY films and one compilation of short films. THIS COURSE? Students will study: It is not a requirement that students • Film Movements – Silent Cinema have studied Film or Media Studies at • Film Movements – Experimental Film GCSE. However students should have an • Documentary Film enjoyment of film and an awareness of • Global Film a range of British, American and World Cinema. Students should have a grade 4 Component 3: Production or above in GCSE English. For the practical production coursework unit, students produce: WHAT WILL I STUDY? • either a short film (4-5 minutes) or a The A Level course is divided into 3 screenplay for a short film (1600-1800 components. words) and digitally photographed storyboard for a key section from that Component 1: American and screenplay WHERE NEXT? British Film • an evaluative analysis (1250-1500 Students may want to go on to study This unit requires students to study six words). Film or Media courses at degree level feature-length films. These films will be – there is a huge range of courses drawn from the following areas: HOW IS THE COURSE ASSESSED? available. We also aim to provide • Classical Hollywood Components 1 and 2 are externally students with relevant experiences and • Hollywood since the 1960s assessed by 3 hour written opportunities to support progression onto • Contemporary American Independent examinations. Each accounts for 35% university or into employment. Film of the qualification. Component 3 is an • British Film internally assessed coursework unit and Eduqas A Level forms 30% of the overall qualification. QAN 603/1147/2 Component 2: Varieties of Film This unit assesses knowledge and understanding of five feature-length
27 WILLIAM WARNES
Why did I choose Fakenham Sixth Form? Having looked at various further education provision, Fakenham Sixth Form thoroughly impressed me with it’s modern facilities and the passion the teachers showed for their individual subjects. Now having attended the Sixth Form for nearly a year, I have come to understand that the teachers are not only passionate but really value the students as individuals and are prepared to sacrifice their time for the benefit of the pupils. The Sixth Form is a warm and caring environment with constant care and attention to everyone creating a nurturing environment.
What I value about Fakenham Sixth Form: The teaching at Fakenham Sixth Form is exciting and challenging ensuring that everyone is pushed to their highest ability. The teachers all have a wide knowledge of their chosen subjects with exceptionally high attention to detail. This comes with the students being treated as adults which in turn leads us to want to achieve our very best. The smaller class sizes mean a focus on improvement for the students as well as knowing us as individuals. There are many great opportunities beyond the classroom, ranging from trips to Krakow Poland in year 12 (where we visited concentration camps) to the Gold Duke of Edinburgh award to an outside personal mentor helping us achieve our goals for beyond Sixth Form.
Plans for the future: I plan to further my love of maths by going to University, ideally Cambridge and studying maths. This will hopefully lead onto me achieving a PhD in a specific discipline in maths. 28 FRENCH A Level
WHAT WILL STUDENTS NEED TO STUDY • Extend their knowledge of the film THIS COURSE? “L’Auberge espagnole” by analyzing Fakenham Sixth Form offers French A-level its filming styles over 2 years and this is a co-teachable • A French novel (at the moment it linear exam. In order to consider this is “Candide” by Voltaire but this is course, students should have ideally currently under review and will be achieved a grade 5 in their French GCSE. decided before students start the second year) WHAT WILL STUDENTS STUDY? • Present an Individual Research Project Over the 2 year course, students will study: for their speaking exam on a topic that • Aspects of French-speaking society: inspires them and that is linked to current trends (family, technology, French Speaking countries. volunteering) • Artistic culture in the French-speaking One of the challenges of this new world (heritage, music, cinema) specification is the absence of using • Analyse and understand the plot and a dictionary in the exams, putting characters of the film “l’Auberge greater emphasis on students’ previous Espagnole” by Cédric Klapisch knowledge of a variety of specific WHERE NEXT? • Grammar vocabulary and a greater expectation of The course will lead onto a university students to be able to translate without degree involving translation, interpreting, The second year, students will study: any help. Students’ strong and detailed journalism, travelling, tourism and • Aspects of French-speaking society: knowledge of the Film “l‘Auberge teaching, to only name a few. French is current issues ( diverse society, Espagnole“(Year 12) as well as of the full of transferable skills that can be used marginalised people, crime) French novel that is studied in Year 13 will in many different jobs. • Aspects of political life in the French- further develop students’ expertise and speaking world (teenagers’ votes, knowledge of French authentic materials AQA A-Level 7652 strikes and unions, immigration) relevant to French culture and history. QAN 601/8727/X
29 FURTHER MATHEMATICS A Level
WHAT WILL I NEED TO STUDY The course deepens and expands on the engineering degrees. If students are THIS COURSE? content of the Mathematics A-level. intending to study mathematics, physics Students will need to have achieved at or engineering at university, it introduces least a grade 6 in GCSE Mathematics For the applied portion of the course, many ideas they will encounter there and and also be studying A Level there is the option to study two topics will greatly help their studies. Mathematics. out of statistics, mechanics or discrete maths. Which topics we study will be AQA A Level 7367 WHAT WILL I STUDY? decided according to the needs and QAN 603/1841/7 This course is for students who really interests of the group. The mechanics enjoy maths and would like to learn and statistics options develop the ideas more. It covers many fascinating and met in the Mathematics A-level. The challenging topics. discrete option introduces the study of networks, graphs and algorithms. This As with A-level Maths, the course is relevant to problems such as how consists of two thirds pure mathematics a sat nav calculates an optimum route and one third applied maths. The between two places. pure maths includes many interesting areas of mathematics not covered in HOW IS THE COURSE ASSESSED? A Level Mathematics. Students will The entire course is assessed by learn about the imaginary number i and examination. There will be three 2 hour discover complex numbers. They will exams at the end of year 13. learn about matrices and how they are used to describe transformations and WHERE NEXT? to solve simultaneous equations. Polar Further Mathematics is a well recognised coordinates, hyperbolic functions and qualification that universities are keen differential equations are also studied. to see in students taking science or
30 31 GEOGRAPHY A Level
WHAT WILL I NEED TO STUDY (Human Geography), the topics taught THIS COURSE? are ‘Changing Places’, ‘Contemporary Students must be enthusiastic about Urban Environments’ and ‘Global studying a wide range of local, national Systems and Governance’. Component 3 and global geographical issues, (Geography Fieldwork Investigation), strengthened through the completion will be based upon a written fieldwork of an independent geography fieldwork investigation. investigation based upon on the north Norfolk coast. Students must HOW IS THE COURSE ASSESSED? be interested in developing their Components 1 and 2 are assessed understanding of the importance of externally by written examinations. the relationships between people and Component 3 is marked by teachers and their environments and the significant externally moderated. All assessments human and environmental threats take place at the end of the two facing the world. A grade 5 or higher in year course. GCSE Geography is required for A Level Geography. However, consideration WHERE NEXT? will be given to students who have A significant number of our students go met the general Sixth Form entry on to successfully read Geography and requirements and have not studied related degrees at university, or to use GCSE Geography before. the subject as a strong academic basis to study for a wider range of degrees WHAT WILL I STUDY? ultimately leading to professional For Component 1 (Physical Geography), qualifications. the topics taught are ‘Coastal Systems and Landscapes’, ‘Hazards’ and ‘Water AQA A Level 7037 and Carbon Cycles’. For Component 2 QAN 601/8940/X
32 CHARLIE DE JONG CLEYNDERT
Why did I choose Fakenham Sixth Form? Choosing to come to Fakenham Sixth Form was not just an automatic next step for me. The decision about where to study is an important one, so I wanted to be sure I got it right. Fakenham offers a supportive and encouraging environment, but also one where there are high expectations that will challenge me to achieve the best I can. Also, the fact it’s my local Sixth Form means I do not have to spend several hours travelling each day which leaves me more time to take advantage of all the opportunities available.
What I value about Fakenham Sixth Form: Fakenham Sixth Form is not as big as some other sixth forms and colleges. This means that the staff and the students all know each other and there is a real sense of community. The class sizes are much smaller than at high school, so teachers can spend a lot more time helping you individually. There is also a really wide range of opportunities and experiences available to enrich students both academically and personally. I have really enjoyed taking part in the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award and a STEMM Gold Award this year. I also had the opportunity to visit Krakow and Auschwitz with the Sixth Form, which was a life-changing experience.
Plans for the future: I hope to go to university to study Biomedical Science. Basing my EPQ around genetic research has really given me the chance to explore elements of medicine and human biology, which has focused my ideas for a future career. 33 HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate
WHAT WILL I NEED TO STUDY They also learn about health conditions, psychological perspectives. (This unit THIS COURSE? the impact of these on people’s lives may change.) Several of the topics students cover in and patient care. Part of the course the course are developments of work involves developing skills of research, The external assessment is worth done at BTEC Level 2 but students do not evaluation and problem-solving in a 58% of the course and the internal need to have studied Health and Social work-related context. assessment is worth 42% of the course. Care previously in order to take the BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in HOW IS THE COURSE ASSESSED? WHERE NEXT? Health and Social Care. For the portfolio Students develop a broad understanding based assessment, students need Year One of Health and Social Care principles and to have good written communication • Students will complete one internal will be given the opportunity to focus on skills so a grade 5 or above in English assessment in the form of a portfolio a specific career pathway, for example in Language GCSE would be beneficial. of evidence based on how to meet health care, social care, early years care service users’ care and support needs. or education. WHAT WILL I STUDY? • One external assessment in the As part of the Health and Social Care form of an exam on human lifespan Many of our students go on to have course students will learn about human and development. The exam will be careers in childcare, nursing, paediatrics, lifespan development and skills and 1.5 hours. midwifery, social work, teaching, police factors that impact service users’ quality service, probation service, medicine, of life in health and social care settings. Year Two paramedics, mental health and The course also teaches students about • One external assessment in the form counselling. health, early years care and education, of an exam on working in health and social care and issues affecting the care social care services. The exam will be Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended sector. Students will learn about how 1.5 hours. Certificate in Health and Social Care to meet the needs of service users • One internal assessment in the form (360 GLH) and how to communicate effectively. of a portfolio of evidence based on QAN 601/7197/2
34 35 HISTORY A Level
WHAT WILL I NEED TO STUDY • About the theories of historians and THIS COURSE? the language that they use to discuss Students do not need to have studied their ideas. History at GCSE. It is more important that • To understand the nature of historical they have an enquiring mind, an interest evidence and the methods used by in the past and its relevance to current historians to analyse and evaluate it. affairs and an ability to communicate • To develop an understanding of how their ideas effectively. A grade 5 or higher the past has been interpreted and in GCSE English and History or another represented. Humanities subject is desired for A Level • To express their own historical ideas study but all applications are considered confidently and effectively. on an individual basis. • To plan and carry out an investigation into an area of historical interest. WHAT WILL I STUDY? Each unit consists of a historical period, HOW IS THE COURSE ASSESSED? issue, individual or event. Units 1 and 2 are externally examined, • Unit 1: The quest for political stability, being worth 80% of the total A Level. Germany 1871-1991 Unit 3 is internally examined, being worth • Unit 2: The Wars of the Roses, 20% of the total A Level. 1450-1499 • Unit 3: Historical investigation WHERE NEXT? History does not relate specifically to During the A Level course any particular career. As an academic students learn: subject this A Level is well regarded by • About the significance of events, universities and employers. individuals, issues and societies in history. • How and why societies have changed AQA A Level 7042 over time. QAN: 601/4973/5 36 INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate
WHAT WILL I NEED TO STUDY WHERE NEXT? THIS COURSE? When taken alongside other Level 3 Students will need any 5 GCSEs at qualifications, the qualification gives grade 5 or above or equivalent. It is not students the opportunity to progress to essential that the student will need a a degree in an information technology GCSE computer related qualification. discipline or a degree where information technology related skills and knowledge WHAT WILL I STUDY? may be advantageous. This qualification The objective of this qualification is to carries UCAS points equal to A Levels give students the opportunity to develop and is recognised by higher education their knowledge and skills in IT systems, providers as meeting admission systems management and social media requirements. in business. This will enable them to progress to further study in the IT sector The qualification also enables learners to or other sectors. develop knowledge and skills needed for entry-level roles related to IT, including Over the two years students will study vocational apprenticeship roles and four units, three mandatory and one trainee/entry-level roles such as a social optional. media specialist, web/content developer, • Information Technology Systems or business analyst. • Creating systems to manage information Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended • Using social media in business Certificate In Information Technology • Data modelling (optional) (360 GLH) • Website development (optional) QAN 601/7575/8
37 MATHEMATICS A-Level
WHAT WILL I NEED TO STUDY testing, which is determining whether THIS COURSE? the data collected is sufficient to Students will need to have achieved a confirm a hypothesis. Mechanics is the GCSE grade 6 in Mathematics, having mathematics of forces and motion and taken the Higher Tier paper. students will study Newton’s Laws of motion, kinematics, momentum, friction WHAT WILL I STUDY? and projectiles. Two thirds of the course involves studying Pure Mathematics. Students HOW IS THE COURSE ASSESSED? will further develop the algebra and The entire course is assessed by trigonometry they met at GCSE. They examination. There will be three 2 hour will also study new concepts such as exams at the end of year 13. There is no calculus, vectors, exponentials and coursework element. logarithms. Calculus is the study of continuous change and is a key concept WHERE NEXT? with applications in many areas. Vectors Mathematics is a highly regarded A describe positions in 3D space and Level. It is very useful if students are are used extensively, for example in considering careers in business, IT, computer graphics. science, engineering, psychology or accountancy amongst many many The other third of the course is others. It also will help students if they equally shared between Statistics and are studying subjects at A-level that use Mechanics. Statistics involves analysing mathematical ideas such as Science data, learning about probability and subjects, Psychology and others. probability distributions, including the binomial and normal distributions. AQA A Level 7357 It also includes studying hypothesis QAN 603/1164/2
38 MEDIA STUDIES A Level
WHAT WILL I NEED TO STUDY Component 2: Media Forms and THIS COURSE? Products in Depth It is not a requirement that students have For this component students will studied Media or Film at GCSE. However, study three different media industries: students should have an interest in Television, Magazines and Online different forms of the media and an media. They will study a range of texts awareness of a range of different media and be assessed on their knowledge texts and products. Students should have and understanding of media language, a grade 4 or above in GCSE English. representation, industry and audience.
WHAT WILL I STUDY? Component 3: Cross-Media Production The A Level course is divided into three This is a practical production coursework components. unit. Students will be given a choice of briefs set by the exam board. They will Component 1: Meanings and be required to produce two linked texts, internally assessed coursework unit and Representations in the Media using different media forms. As well as forms 30% of the overall qualification. Students learn how to analyse a range demonstrating practical skills, students of media texts, looking at how they are will apply their theoretical knowledge WHERE NEXT? constructed, how they communicate and understanding in the production of Students may want to go on to study meaning and what messages they these texts. Film or Media courses at degree level convey. They will examine issues of – there is a huge range of courses Audience and Representation across a HOW IS THE COURSE ASSESSED? available. We also aim to provide range of media texts drawn from music Component 1 is assessed by a 2 hour students with relevant experiences and videos, video games, advertising, film written examination and forms 30% of opportunities to support progression onto marketing, newspapers and radio news/ the overall qualification. Component 2 university or into employment. current affairs programmes. is assessed by a 3 hour written examination and forms 40% of the Eduqas A Level overall qualification. Component 3 is an QAN 603/1149/6 39 PHILOSOPHY & ETHICS A Level
WHAT WILL I NEED TO STUDY of design? Does the universe need a be used as the only source of moral THIS COURSE? unique first cause to exist? Does the guidance for Christians? If so, would Students should have an enquiring, presence of evil make belief in an all that make Christianity sexist? These tolerant, resilient mind that is open loving, all powerful and all-knowing God questions too will be critically discussed to challenge. They need to be able impossible? These questions will be and analysed. to express their ideas and the ideas critically discussed and analysed. of others both orally and in writing. HOW IS THE COURSE ASSESSED? Students should have gained at least a Unit 2 (Ethics) The course is assessed through three grade 5 or higher in a GCSE Humanities Students will consider what makes a two hour written exams, which are essay or English Literature. Whilst studying human action right or wrong. They will based. Each exam is of equal weighting. Philosophy and Ethics at GCSE would consider whether actions such as lying, be beneficial, it is not a requirement and stealing and killing are always wrong, as WHERE NEXT? consideration will be given to students suggested by Aquinas and Kant, or if the Philosophy and Ethics is a well-regarded who have met the general Sixth Form outcome is the most important issue as subject by both universities and entry requirements, suggested by Fletcher Bentham and Mill. employers, as it encourages critical These theories are applied to Business thinking as well as analytical and WHAT WILL I STUDY? and Euthanasia. These questions too will evaluative skills. At university, Philosophy be critically discussed and analysed. has the benefit of being studied on its Unit 1 (Philosophy of Religion) own or as a companion to other subjects Students consider issues such as ‘how Unit 3 (Development in Christian such as English and History amongst do I know something is real?’ and ‘do Thought) many combinations. I have a mind as well as a body?’ by Students will consider key issues from looking at the ideas of Plato, Aristotle, within Christianity Some of the issues OCR A Level H573 Descartes and Ryle. Students will also considered include whether human QAN 60188686 consider the philosophical arguments for nature is naturally sinful? Would entry the existence of God looking at issues to heaven be limited to only those such as whether the world shows signs who believed in God? Should the Bible
40 41 PHOTOGRAPHY A Level
WHAT WILL I NEED TO STUDY Coursework consists of a personal released to students in February of their THIS COURSE? investigation, where through year final year. Students will have 15 hours This course will suit students who one students will explore a range of to produce their personal outcome or are creative and imaginative. Subject techniques, develop a broad range outcomes. requirements are a grade 5 or above at of skills, refine and record ideas and GCSE Art and Design or by portfolio. present a personal response. Students WHERE NEXT? will also research photographers and The course can lead either to WHAT WILL I STUDY? their work, reflecting on work critically employment, apprenticeships or Higher Students explore a range of approaches, with written analysis. Education courses in art or non-related working with signs, symbols and images courses. and understanding artistic conventions, Through the second year students such as portrait, landscape and will continue to produce a portfolio of Edexcel A Level 9PYO movement. Students study the role and coursework, together with a related QAN 601/4958/9 function of photography (e.g. graphics, personal study of up to 3000 words. This fashion and documentary); develop a places students work within an historical range of techniques (e.g. control of and/or contemporary context and must shutter speed and use of aperture); be in an essay format. Coursework learn to use different lighting conditions, counts for 60% of students A level, with pictorial space, scale and structure and 12% of marks given to the essay. use digital imagery and software to manipulate and refine images. During the second year students will also complete an exam, Externally Set HOW IS THE COURSE ASSESSED? Assignment (ESA). This component is Assessment is judged by a combination worth 40% of their A level. It requires of two components, Component 1: students to produce preparatory studies Personal Investigation and Component 2: and personal outcome(s) based on a Externally Set Assignment. theme set by Edexcel. The theme will be
42 43 44 PHYSICS A Level
WHAT WILL I NEED TO STUDY In Year 13 students will study a further WHERE NEXT? THIS COURSE? three modules covering – gravity and the This A Level course develops student Students need to have a good origins of the universe and what happens skills in independent learning, team knowledge of Physics either as a single to matter at extreme temperatures; work, research and analysis. It can GCSE or as part of a GCSE Science what atoms are made from and how lead onto university study in Physics, course. Ideally they should have gained they behave and electromagnetic Engineering, Medicine and other science at least a grade 6 in Physics or at least machines. Over the two years students based courses. a grade 6-6 in Combined science plus at will also carry out a number of practical least a grade 5 in GCSE Maths. experiments which will be assessed in OCR A Level H557 the exams but also lead to a separate QAN 601/4745/3 WHAT WILL I STUDY? “practical endorsement” grade. Students study this innovative and exciting Advancing Physics course which HOW IS THE COURSE ASSESSED? was developed in conjunction with the At A Level there are three examination Institute of Physics. papers which will include multiple choice, structured and extended response In Year 12 students will study new questions on Fundamentals of Advancing communication technologies; how Physics, Advancing Physics and Practical sensors are made; how materials change Skills in Advancing Physics. There is also and perform under stress; understanding the Practical Endorsement for Physics processes and experimentation and data – A minimum of 12 practical activities handling – how waves behave including to demonstrate practical competence. light and sound; the nature of matter Performance will be reported separately (including quantum physics) and how this to the A Level grade as a pass or fail. can help to explain almost everything in the universe; the physics of projectile motion in space and time.
45 PSYCHOLOGY A Level
WHAT WILL I NEED TO STUDY • Schizophrenia THIS COURSE? • Forensic Psychology Psychology is a science, so students should have a grade 5 or above in both HOW IS THE COURSE ASSESSED? GCSE Science and Maths. For the essay There are three, two hour examinations based assessment students need to at the end of Year Two. They include have good written communication so a multiple-choice, short and long answer Level 5 in English Language GCSE would (essay) questions. be beneficial. WHERE NEXT? WHAT WILL I STUDY? A high number of our students go on In the first year students will be studying to read Psychology at degree level, but the following subjects: the course also complements the study • Social Influence (Conformity & of Law, Sociology, Politics, Medicine, Obedience) Health, Media, Journalism & Film, and • Memory any other course or career that includes • Attachment (Social Development in the study of people and their behaviour. Children) • Psychopathology (Mental Illness) AQA A Level 7182 • Biopsychology QAN 601/4838/X • Research Methods • Approaches in Psychology
In the second year students will be studying issues and debates in the following areas: • Issues and Debates in Psychology • Gender
46 MAXWELL LAKE
Why did I choose Fakenham Sixth Form? After going through Fakenham Academy, Fakenham Sixth Form seemed to be the best option for me. I knew all the teachers, I knew my way around and the majority of my friends were also coming to Fakenham. In extension to this the sixth form offered all the subjects that I wanted to persue.
What I value about Fakenham Sixth Form: The thing I value the most at Fakenham is how passionate and dedicated the staff are. They are always there to support you in and out of lesson time. Another thing I greatly value about Fakenham is the endless opportunities that are made available to you, whether this be trips abroad, DofE or subject trips. Fakenham Sixth Form gave me the opportunity to direct my own play within the main hall. This is just a handful of the opportunities available at Fakenham Sixth Form.
Plans for the future: After my time at Fakenham I hope to move forward in an apprenticeship in Stage Light and Sound. This will allow me to explore my passion for theatre production.
47 NIA-ELISE YAXLEY
Why did I choose Fakenham Sixth Form? Personally, I came to Fakenham Sixth form because of the size of the place. I tend to be quite a shy individual, and so going to a huge sixth form or college would have been a really big struggle for me. Fakenham sixth form is a much more comfortable and safe environment, and is filled with teachers that will make you feel at ease. The sixth form also offers all the subjects I wished to take and my sister had also previously been to the sixth form, so I already had an insight to it.
What I value about Fakenham Sixth Form: I particularly value the teachers at the sixth form. As I’ve already said, I’m quite shy and so have never really had the best relationships with my teachers. However, at the sixth form I feel I finally have good relationships with my teachers, because they bring out my confidence and are so amazing at teaching and helping you when you’re struggling. This has only increased my motivation even more to do better academically.
Plans for the future: I’m currently in the mindset of going to university to complete a social work course, as my health and social care lessons have taught me a lot about this job, and I believe it’s something I’d like to do as a career in the future.
48 SOCIOLOGY A Level
WHAT WILL I NEED TO STUDY THIS COURSE? Good literacy and communication skills are essential on this course. Students should have a grade 5 or higher in GCSE English for A Level study but all applications are considered on an individual basis.
WHAT WILL I STUDY? There is an initial induction period, during which students will be introduced to skills, techniques and sociological theories that are essential for the course.
The course itself consists of three units, all of which are studied over the two years of the course:
• Unit 1: Education with Theory and Methods, which covers Education, Research Methods in the context of • Research Methods and Sociological WHERE NEXT? Education and Sociological Theories Theories Students will find that studying Sociology • Unit 2: Topics in Sociology, which will help them in a variety of careers covers ‘Culture and Identity’ and ‘The HOW IS THE COURSE ASSESSED? including teaching, law, social work, Media’ There are three units which journalism and police. • Unit 3: Crime and Deviance with are assessed by three external Theory and Methods, which covers examinations. AQA A-Level Crime and Deviance, QAN 601/3994/8 49 SPANISH AS/A2
WHAT WILL I NEED TO STUDY thoroughly in preparation for the 3 5–6 minutes, and Part 2 will be the THIS COURSE? units exam. presentation and discussion of the A Grade 6 or higher at GCSE Spanish is student’s individual research project. required as is an interest in Spain and the HOW IS THE COURSE ASSESSED? Spanish speaking world. This is a linear qualification of two years. WHERE NEXT? At the end of A2 students will take 3 As Languages involve aspects of both WHAT WILL I STUDY? examinations: the arts and the sciences, they are This course will encourage students particularly rich in transferable skills and to become more confident in their 1. Listening, reading and translation are seen as very desirable in many areas communication skills, both spoken This paper tests students listening, of working life. As a linguist students and written. reading, writing and translation skills. It are well placed to go into international also tests students’ ability to manipulate affairs, business, the media, teaching, or At AS and A2, the topics include social more advanced structures with accuracy. translation but they may also use their issues, social trends and political language skills alongside other subject and artistic culture. The AS and A2 2. Writing specialisms to recruit staff who can programme will also involve the study Students will answer an essay question communicate with people from outside of grammar, literacy texts and films. in Spanish for each of the two works the UK. Students must identify a subject or a key they have studied (this can be a book and question which is of interest to them and a film, or two books). Students will have Exam Board: AQA which relates to a country or countries a choice of question on each book/film. Course Code: 7692 where Spanish is spoken for an individual All questions will be in Spanish and will QAN 601/8732/3 research project. require a critical and analytical response.
The course draws on a wide range of 3. Speaking. resources that aim to stimulate interest The oral test will be in two parts. Part 1 in Spanish and the Hispanic speaking will be the discussion of one sub-theme world. Topics which must be covered from those in this specification, lasting
50 SPORT BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate
WHAT WILL I NEED TO STUDY unit from Sports Leadership, Application THIS COURSE? of Fitness Testing, Sports Psychology or Students who want to continue their Practical Sports Performance. education through applied learning and who aim to progress to higher WHERE NEXT? education and ultimately to employment The qualification carries UCAS points in the sport sector. The qualification is equal to an A Level and is recognised equivalent in size to one A Level, and by higher education providers as it has been designed as a full two-year contributing to meeting admission programme when studied alongside requirements for many courses if taken further Level 3 qualifications. alongside other qualifications as part of a two-year programme of study. It WHAT WILL I STUDY? combines well with a large number of There are 3 mandatory units and subjects and supports entry to higher 1 optional unit that learners must education courses in a very wide range complete, 2 are external examinations of disciplines (depending on the subjects and 2 are set internally. taken alongside).
Students will study three mandatory EDEXCEL BTEC Level 3 National Extended units: Anatomy and Physiology, Fitness Certificate in Sport (360 GLH) Training and Programming for Health, QAN 601/7218/6 Sport and Well-being and Professional Development in the Sports Industry. Students will also study one optional
51 TEXTILES A level
WHAT WILL I NEED TO STUDY HOW IS THE COURSE ASSESSED? During the second year students will THIS COURSE? Assessment is judged by a combination also complete an exam, Externally Set This course will suit students who of two components, Component 1: Assignment (ESA). This component is are creative and imaginative. Subject personal investigation (coursework) worth 40% of your A level. It requires requirements are a grade 5 or above at and Component 2: Externally Set students to produce preparatory studies GCSE Art and Design or by portfolio. Assignment. and personal outcome(s) based on a theme set by AQA. The theme will be WHAT WILL I STUDY? Coursework consists of a personal released to them in January of their Students are able to explore a wide investigation, where year one students final year. Students will have 15 hours variety of textile experiences and choose will explore a range of materials, develop to produce their personal outcome or from a broad range of textile media, a broad range of skills, refine and record outcomes. processes and techniques to further ideas and present a personal response. develop, such as: Students will also research artists and WHERE NEXT? their work, reflecting on work critically As well as giving you the chance to • Art textiles with written analysis. creatively engage with the wider world • Fashion design and illustration and develop technical skills, the study • Costume design Through the second year students of art and design equips you with • Constructed textiles will continue to produce a portfolio of transferable skills that will support • Printed and dyed textiles coursework, together with a related you in both further study and a range • Surface pattern personal study of up to 3000 words. This of careers. Textiles A level can lead to • Stitched and/ or embellished textiles places their work within an historical and/ employment, apprenticeships or higher • Soft furnishings and/ or textiles for or contemporary context and must be in education courses in Textiles/Art or non interiors an essay format. Coursework counts for related courses. • Digital textiles 60% of their A level, with 12% of marks • Installed textiles given to the essay. AQA A Level 7204 QAN 60144567
52 53 MATHEMATICS GCSE
WHY WILL I NEED TO STUDY WHERE NEXT? THIS COURSE? This will help students to access many All students who have not yet achieved jobs and courses. a grade 4 at GCSE Mathematics are required to take this course. Students Edexcel GCSE 1MA1 who have gained a grade 4 may wish QAN (9 to 1) 601/4700/3 to continue to study GCSE maths to improve their grade.
WHAT WILL I STUDY? Students will be studying the one year course at Foundation Level. It covers topics such as fractions, decimals, percentages and the number system; basic algebra; angles, areas and volumes of shapes; measurements including metric and imperial units; averages, tables, charts and probability.
HOW IS THE COURSE ASSESSED? Students will take three examinations in June. They may use a calculator in two of the exams. There is no coursework element to this course.
54 ENGLISH LANGUAGE GCSE
WHY WILL I NEED TO STUDY specific information; interpret and THIS COURSE? summarise meaning; analyse writers’ All students who have not yet achieved use of language and structural features a grade 4 at GCSE English are required and compare writers’ viewpoints and to take this course. Students who have perspectives. gained a grade 4 may wish to continue to study GCSE English to improve Students will also learn how to apply their grade. language and structural techniques to their own writing alongside refining their WHAT WILL I STUDY? basic writing skills, such as punctuation Students will study the skills required for and paragraphing. the two GCSE exam papers. Paper 1 is based on an unseen fiction extract and HOW IS THE COURSE ASSESSED? requires pupils to complete an original Two exam papers: piece of narrative or descriptive writing. In Paper 2 pupils read two unseen Paper 1: Explorations in Creative Reading non-fiction extracts and complete an and Writing original piece of writing to present a viewpoint. The non-fiction texts are Paper 2: Writers’ Viewpoints and usually extracts from magazines or Perspectives newspapers – one contemporary and one nineteenth-century – and pupils will be Some students will also complete WHERE NEXT? asked to compare the writers’ viewpoints a Speaking and Listening task (a This qualification will enable students to and perspectives. presentation followed by a question-and- access many jobs and courses. answer session) which will be awarded a The skills assessed over the two separate grade (Pass, Merit, Distinction AQA GCSE 8700 papers include the ability to identify or Not Classified). QAN 601/4292/3
55 Parents' ViewsParents' Views Parents' Parents' Comments Comments “Staff are always ready to listen and help” “Staff are always ready 100% 99% to listen and help” of parents think their 10097%% of parents think we are 99% children are of parentsof parents think their believe our students 97% of parents think we are “Highly recommend children are WELL LED & of parents believe our students “Highly recommend WELL TAUGHT ARE HAPPY MANAGED WELL LED &the teaching. Fantastic Parents'WELL TAUGHT ARE HAPPY MANAGEDsupport to my daughter.the teaching. Fantastic Parents'Parents'Parents' Views ViewsViews Parents' Views Parents'Parents' Parents'Parents'Parents' support to my daughter. PARENTS’Parents'Parents' VIEWSParents' Views Views Views Parents' Great teachers!” CommentsCommentsComments CommentsCommentsComments Great teachers!” Comments “Thank you to the “Staff“Staff areare alwaysalways readyready 100% “Thank you to the “Staff are always ready “Staff“Staff are“Staff are always arealways always ready ready ready 100% informative and 10 0% to listentoto andlistenlisten help” andand100% help”help”“Staff are always ready informative and 100% 99% 97%of parents of parents think we to listento listento and listen and help” and help” help” supportive staff ” 100100% % 99%99% 10 0% 100% of parents of parents think their 100% ofof parentsparents thinkthink wewe areare of believeparents theirbelieve the 99% of parents think we of parents think their 100100%% of parents think we are 99%99% of parents supportive staff ” of parents think their 97% to listen and help” believe their children are well 97% sixth form informs them of parents think we are of parents 97% of parents think their children of parentsof parents think we think are we are childrenchildren areare 100 of parentsof parents think their think their 99% believe their children are % of parents believe our students 97% RESPOND WELL of parents believe our students 97%97% believe their children are well of parents believe our students well of their childs of parents think their childrenchildren are arechildren are of parents think we are “Highly“Highly“Highly recommendchildren recommendrecommend 97%WELL of parentsof WELLparentsWELL believe LEDof believe ourparents students our believe &studentsLEDLED our students && “HighlyRESPOND recommend WELL “My daughter is very children are WELL LED & “Highly“Highly recommend recommendLOOKED of parents believe our students WELLWELL LED LEDthethe & teaching.teaching. & TO CONCERNSFantasticFantastic“Highly recommend “My daughter is very WELLWELLWELL TAUGHT TAUGHTTAUGHT AREARE AREWELLHAPPY HAPPYHAPPY TAUGHT MANAGED FEELWELL SAFELED the& teaching. Fantastic thethe teaching. teaching.the teaching. Fantastic Fantastic Fantastic LOOKEDhappy with the Sixth Form. WELLWELL TAUGHT TAUGHT AREMANAGEDARE AREMANAGEDHAPPY HAPPY HAPPYPROGRESSMANAGEDsupportsupportFEEL toto SAFE mymy daughter.daughter.the teaching. FantasticTO CONCERNS AFTER happy with the Sixth Form. WELL TAUGHT ARE HAPPY MANAGEDMANAGEDsupport to my daughter. supportsupportsupport to myto my daughter.to daughter.my daughter. AFTER I’ve found the Sixth Form MANAGED GreatGreat teachers!”teachers!”support to my daughter. I’ve found the Sixth Form Great teachers!” GreatGreat teachers!”Great teachers!” teachers!” to be very approachable. Great teachers!” Thank you for all your to be very approachable. “Thank“Thank youyou toto thethe 100%100%100% “Thank you96% to the “Thank“Thank“Thank you you to youtheto the to the hard work” Thank you for all your 99% 100%informative100%100%informativeinformative of parents and believe andand “Thank you to the hard work” 96% their child can informative89% and 1010 0% 0% 100%100%100% ofof parents parents100% believedbelieve 99%100 % informativeinformative and and of parents believe 10 0% of parents think we take part in of parents of parents think of we parents think we 100% their children are supportive staff ” they receive of parents the sixth form supportive ofstaff parents would ”informative and 89% of parents 10 0% 100%100% 1010 0% 0% of parents supportiveof parents staff believe ” of parents believe of parents of parents of parents thinkof parents weof think parents we thinkof parents we supportive100% staff ” “All good, great believe their of parentsof parents making good believe their believe their of parents think the sixth form has100% supports my childs of parentstheir children are supportivesupportive staff staff ” ” 10 0% believe their children are well of parentsof parents of parents would they receive believe their of parents think we believe their childrenbelieve are their well children are well “All good, great childrenchildren of parents believebelieve their their of parents believe the sixth form believe their children are well supportive staff ” children RESPONDRESPOND WELLWELL of parentsbelieve believe their children their children are well aremaking well good VALUABLE environment” believe their RESPONDchildrenchildren children WELL makes sure its students are RECOMMEND HIGH EXPECTATIONS RESPONDRESPONDRESPOND WELL WELL WELL WIDER believe their PERSONAL children are well “My“MyCLUBS daughterdaughter isis& veryvery VALUABLE children LOOKED “My daughter is very environment” TOTO CONCERNSCONCERNSfor their child RESPONDLOOKED WELLLOOKED PROGRESSLOOKEDLOOKEDLOOKED “My“My daughter“My daughterRECOMMEND daughter isINFORMATION veryis very is very FEELFEELFEEL SAFE SAFESAFE TO CONCERNS TO CONCERNSDEVELOPMENThappyhappyhappy withPROGRESS the withwith Sixth thethe Form. SixthSixth“MyUS Form.Form.daughter is very Responses gathered from 75 parents of FEELFEELFEEL SAFE SAFE SAFE TOWELLTO CONCERNSAFTER CONCERNSBEHAVEDAFTERAFTER LOOKED ACTIVITIES happyhappy happywith with the with theUS Sixth Sixththe Form. Sixth Form. Form. INFORMATION FEEL SAFE TO CONCERNS AFTERI’veAFTER foundAFTERI’veI’ve foundfoundthe Sixth thethe Form SixthSixthhappy FormForm with the Sixth Form. Year 12 and Year 13 students. Responses gathered from 75 parents of 60 AFTER I’veI’ve found I’vefound thefound the Sixth Sixththe Form Sixth Form Form Year 12 and Year 13 students. toto bebe veryvery approachable.approachable.I’ve found the Sixth Form to be60 very approachable. to beto be veryto very be approachable. very approachable. approachable. ThankThank youyou forfor allallto youryour be very approachable. Thank you for all your ThankThank Thankyou you for you forall all yourfor your all your hardhard work”work” Thank you for all your 99%99%99% 89% hard work” hardhard work”hard work” work” of parents believe 99% 89%89%of parents believe hard work” of parents believeof parents believe 10099%99%100100% %% of parents believeof parents believe 89% of parents believe 89%89%of parents believe their children are their children aretheir children are of parentsof parents believeofof believe parentsparents wouldwould they receive100theythey receivereceive % 100%of parentsof parents believe believe 99%of parents would 100100%% “All good, great making good their childrentheir children are their are children are of parents would 89%of parents believe the sixth “Allform they good, receive“All good,great great making good making good of parents believe 100%of parents of parents would would of parents believe they receivethey receive “All“All good, “Allgood, greatgood, great great making good has a good range of their children are makingmaking good good of parents would VALUABLEVALUABLEVALUABLE they receive environment”environment”environment” “All good, great making good RECOMMENDRECOMMENDRECOMMEND VALUABLEVALUABLEVALUABLE environment”environment”environment” PROGRESSPROGRESSPROGRESS RECOMMENDRECOMMENDINFORMATIONRECOMMEND VALUABLE FAKENHAM environment” PROGRESSPROGRESSPROGRESSUSUS RECOMMEND INFORMATIONINFORMATION SUBJECTSINFORMATIONSIXTH FORM US US INFORMATIONINFORMATIONResponsesResponsesResponses gathered gathered gatheredfrom 75 parents fromfrom 7575 of parentsparents ofof PROGRESS USUS INFORMATION ResponsesResponsesResponses gathered gathered fromgathered from 75 parents 75 from parents 75 of parents of of Year 12 andYearYear Year 1212 and13and students. YearYear 1313 students.students. US Responses gathered fromYear 75 12 parents and Year of 13 students. 60 6060 56 YearYear 12 and 12 and Year Year 13 students. 13 students. 60 60 60 Year 12 and Year 13 students. 60 PARENTS’ COMMENTS
“Excellent teachers with a great knowledge of my daughter. Thank you”
“Very happy with my son’s progress”
“My daughter is settled and happy at this sixth form and enjoys her courses.”
“We are very happy with the teaching and care shown at Fakenham Sixth Form … nothing but good things to say! (ex APHS).”
“My daughter has settled in well and is happy and doing very well. I am pleased with her progress and hope she will do well.”
57 DESTINATION OF STUDENTS
AMY RAMM MADDIE CURL JAKE DORMAN SCHOOL: SCHOOL: Fakenham Academy Fakenham Academy SCHOOL: Smithdon High School A LEVELS: A LEVELS: Biology, Core Maths, Chemistry, A LEVELS: Health & Social Care Geography, Further Maths, Mathematics, Philosophy & and Sociology Philosophy & Ethics and Physics Ethics, Physics and EPQ
PROGRESSION: PROGRESSION: PROGRESSION: Occupational Therapy, UEA Geography, University of Cambridge Mathematics at University College London
JOANNA IEUAN JONES ALEKSANDRA BARTON SIMSONE SCHOOL: SCHOOL: Litcham High School SCHOOL: Fakenham Academy Alderman Peel High A LEVELS: School A LEVELS: Drama, Film Studies Biology, Chemistry and Psychology and Media Studies A LEVELS: Biology, Psychology and Sociology PROGRESSION: PROGRESSION: Biochemistry, University of Oxford Italia Conti Drama School PROGRESSION: Zoology at University of Lincoln
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For more information please visit www.fakenhamsixthform.org.uk
Field Lane, Fakenham Norfolk NR21 9QT
FAKENHAM Call 01328 862545 SIXTH FORM or email [email protected]