ST HELENS COLLEGE PROSPECTUS 2017 CONTENTS
Welcome 2 Humanities 34
All About A levels 3 Business 35
Our A Level Academy 4 Government and Politics 37
Six Reasons 5 History 39
Your Study Programme 6 Religious Studies 41
A Level Results 7 Sciences 44
Where Are They Going? 9 Biology 45
A level Changes 11 Chemistry 47
A level Entry Criteria 12 Computer Science 49
Upcoming Events 13 Physical Education 51 Creative Studies 16 Social Sciences 54 Art and Design 17 Law 55 Design Technology: Psychology 57 Product Design (3D) 19 Sociology 59 Drama and Theatre Studies 21 62 Media Studies 23 Progress on to a degree
English and Maths 26
English Language 27
English Literature 29
Mathematics 31 WELCOME
Welcome to the A Level Academy at St Helens College. We are delighted that you are considering us as a place to study.
As one of the largest college’s in the Northwest, we are committed to providing high-quality education to our students beginning their journey to university and into successful careers.
Our A Level Academy provides a direct route to university and tailors your education to meet your interests and future ambitions. You’ll learn in a focused, aspirational environment, with access to state-of-the-art learning facilities on our £60million campus.
Inspiring, passionate tutors provide individualised support. They are committed to ensuring that all of our students are stretched and challenged to realise their academic potential and are well-equipped to compete for entry into the top universities and professions.
Our strong partnerships with prestigious universities and distinguished employers will contribute to an enhanced learning experience.
We have great expectations for you and with pre-subject guidance, pastoral services and support, we strive to ensure that you have the opportunity to make an informed decision about your A level options and achieve your aspirations.
We look forward to welcoming you in September.
Dr Jette Burford St Helens College Principal
Welcome 2 ALL ABOUT OUR A LEVELS A LEVEL ACADEMY
A levels are a more traditional, direct route to university and could be the right fit At St Helens College, our A level students have a dedicated study environment for you if you enjoyed studying GCSEs, don’t mind sitting exams and are good at where they can really excel. The A Level Academy is equipped with a study zone, researching topics. suites of computers and social areas.
They also allow you to choose three subjects to study and these will take you two years to Our class sizes are smaller in comparison to sixth forms resulting in a highly supportive, complete with exams at the end of your second year. learning experience. Our tutors are academics, experts in their fields with strong employer links. Studying A levels shows employers that you are capable of thinking and working at an advanced level, and will also enable you to keep your career options open. In 2016, we achieved 98.2% overall A level pass rate with 81% of students progressing on to university and 14% progressing on to apprenticeships or into employment. A levels give you the opportunity to progress on to university, a higher apprenticeship or into employment. We’ve recently invested £1m into revamping our Town Centre Campus library to give you high-tech computers, private study booths, a new performance and exhibition zone and Our tutors will support you to choose the best package of A levels to suit you and your a Starbucks. future aspirations. Ensuring that every student achieves their full potential is at the heart of our A Level Academy.
All that you can be begins here!
“All staff contribute to developing a culture of high ambition and achievement”
OFSTED
3 All About A levels A Level Academy 4 SIX REASONS TO YOUR STUDY STUDY A LEVELS PROGRAMME
At St Helens College’s A Level Academy your study programme is designed to help 1. ROUTE TO UNIVERSITY you realise your full personal and academic potential. You will choose three A level subjects with the opportunity of studying an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). A LEVELS ARE A MORE TRADITIONAL, DIRECT ROUTE TO UNIVERSITY. PASTORAL GUIDANCE 2. COMPETITIVE EDGE
YOU’LL SHOW THAT YOU’RE CAPABLE OF THINKING OPTIONAL: WORK AT AN ADVANCED LEVEL. EXTENDED PROJECT EXPERIENCE QUALIFICATION (EPQ) 3. TAILORED SUBJECTS
YOU’LL COMBINE THREE SUBJECTS TO HELP PREPARE YOU FOR YOUR FUTURE. YOUR STUDY PROGRAMME 4. DEVELOP SKILLS
YOU’LL DEVELOP CRUCIAL RESEARCH AND COMMUNICATION SKILLS.
5. UCAS APPLICATIONS A LEVEL SUBJECT 1 A LEVEL SUBJECT 2 A LEVEL SUBJECT 3 EXPERIENCED TUTORS PROVIDE SUPPORT WITH UCAS APPLICATIONS.
6. EARN AND LEARN WHAT IS AN EXTENDED PROJECT QUALIFICATION (EPQ)? PROGRESS ON TO A HIGHER APPRENTICESHIP TO EARN AND LEARN. EPQ enables you to extend and develop the crucial academic skills of research and analysis to boost your university study skills.
You will undertake the EPQ alongside your chosen A levels and it will take one year to complete.
5 Six Reasons Your Study Programme 61 A LEVEL RESULTS TOP NATIONAL AVERAGE
ST HELENS COLLEGE’S A LEVEL ACADEMY ACHIEVED AN IMPRESSIVE 98.2% OVERALL A LEVEL PASS RATE.
100% PASS RATE IN FACILITATING SUBJECTS INCLUDING ENGLISH LITERATURE, MATHEMATICS, HISTORY AND BIOLOGY.
Gary Shortall Law, Business and History St Edwards College
“I’m so happy that I’ve achieved B B B in Law, Business and History. The last two years have been hard but completely worth it.
100% PASS RATE I am going to Liverpool John Moores studying a degree in Law, so WITH HIGH GRADES (A*- C) IN that I can work towards becoming a qualified Solicitor.” ENGLISH LANGUAGE, ENGLISH LITERATURE AND MATHEMATICS.
7 A level Results Off to university...
WHERE ARE NAME SUBJECTS UNIVERSITY DEGREE
History, Law, Government RACHEL BELL BA (Hons) History and Politics University of Chester
THEY GOING? Sociology, Government and BA (Hons) International JOE BRAMMA Politics, History Liverpool Hope University Relations and Politics
Biology, Mathematics, Jack Clare RACHEL BURGESS University of Bristol BSc (Hons) Economics Biology, English Literature and History English Language St Cuthbert’s Catholic High School Religious Studies, Sociology, LIBBY CHISNALL University Centre FdA Criminal Justice Psychology “All of my tutors and my personal tutor were very welcoming and St Helens the small class sizes have ensured that everyone on the A Level Religious Studies, Law, ROBERT HUGHES BA (Hons) History Academy floor knows each other! Government and Politics University of Chester
Sociology, Psychology, BA (Hons) Early Childhood I am really enjoying the research aspects of Biology and gaining a MEGAN LEE English Language Edge Hill University Studies strong understanding of History and how it can be used in day-to- day situations. History, Sociology, BA (Hons) Philosophy/ HATEM KAAK Manchester Metropolitan Government and Politics University Politics After I have completed my A levels, I intend to do a Biology degree BA (Hons) International JOSH KAY History, Sociology, Business Manchester Metropolitan at university.” University Business Management English Language, BA (Hons) English and FRANKIE MADEN Liverpool John Moores Ben Wolstenholme Sociology, Psychology University Creative Writing Business, Law and Government and Politics GARY SHORTALL Law, Business, History Liverpool John Moores LLB (Hons) Law Byrchall High School University “I really like the A Level Academy as it’s close to the town centre, KATIE THOMAS History, Law, Psychology BSc (Hons) Criminology there are easy transport links nearby and a group of my friends University of Salford also attend the College. AARON History, Government and BA (Hons) International University of Salford Once I have completed my A levels, I hope to study business or WARBURTON Politics, English Language Relations and Politics international business law at university so that I can one day work for an established company and work my way up to managerial or BA (Hons) Fashion Buying KYRA WELDING Sociology, Psychology Manchester Metropolitan CEO level.” University and Merchandising
History, English Literature, BSc (Hons) Psychology LIANA WHITE Psychology University of Salford Mohammed Ahtash History, Sociology and Government and Politics Entering full-time employment or an apprenticeship... “I have had so many amazing opportunities so far, from attending NAME SUBJECTS APPRENTICESHIP school in Libya to having the opportunity to take part in a student exchange programme in the USA to moving to the UK and Business Administration CONNOR FINN Business, Computer Science attending St Helens College! Apprenticeship
SIOBHAN Law, Psychology, Computer The tutors are very helpful and encourage us to aim higher, Legal Apprenticeship MARSHALL Science providing extra support and advice if needed and I really like that the A level students have the top floor of the College to themselves!” NAME SUBJECTS EMPLOYER
Religious Studies, Sociology, Upon completion of my A levels, I hope to go on to university to BETHAN HARRIS Armed Forces study either law or diplomacy.” English Language
9 Where Are They Going? Where Are They Going? 10 A LEVEL ENTRY A LEVEL CHANGES CRITERIA
You may have heard that there have been changes to A and AS levels from As part of the new GCSE grading structure, reformed New Current September 2015 onwards, across England and Wales. GCSEs will be introduced gradually over the 3 years Structure Structure from September 2015. They will be graded from 9 to 1, As a student looking to progress on to university, it is now expected that you will study instead of A* to G. 9 three A levels rather than four but don’t worry, this will not put you at a disadvantage in A* any way as all universities require students to have three good A levels as part of their Students being awarded GCSEs in 2017 and 2018 will standard offer. receive a mixture of 9 to 1 and A* to G grades. 8
The key changes are: As a result of these new changes, students will not be A affected. • AS results are still available as a stand-alone qualification but they no longer count 7 towards your overall A level grade in the way that they do now. • Assessments will take place at the end of the two year A level. In line with these changes, our A Level Academy 6 • Content for A levels has been reviewed and refreshed – universities have played a entry criteria in this prospectus has been outlined B greater role in this. under this new structure. Use this table as a guide.
Don’t worry! Our tutors will go through your A level options with you, making sure that you 5 understand the changes and which A levels are best suited to your future plans. 4 C Reformed A level Reformed A level subjects Reformed A level subjects subjects available from available from available from 4 and above = C and above September 2015: September 2016: September 2017: • Art and Design • Drama and Theatre • Design and 3 D Technology • Biology • Physical Education E • Business Studies • Religious Studies • Government and 2 Politics • Chemistry F • Law • Computer Science • Mathematics 1 G • English Language • Media Studies • English Literature • History U U • Psychology
• Sociology (July 2016 – Ofqual)
11 A level Changes A Level Entry Criteria 12 ST HELENS COLLEGE OPEN ENROLMENT BECOME AN OFFICIAL SAY HELLO AND ST HELENS COLLEGE HAVE A GO EVENTS STUDENT DISCOVER WHY IT’S SO GREAT TO BE A TO HELP YOU DECIDE WHAT TO STUDY AFTER YOUR GCSE EXAMS, ONCE YOU'VE COLLECTED YOUR STUDENT AT ST HELENS COLLEGE! WE’RE RUNNING SOME FUN, GCSE RESULTS, COME ALONG TO INTERACTIVE TASTER SESSIONS. OUR ENROLMENT EVENT AND SECURE YOUR PLACE. YOU'LL GET TO MEET OTHER STUDENTS ON YOUR COURSE, YOU WILL THEN BE ALL SET TO DROP IN WITH YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS TO FIND OUT CHAT TO TUTORS AND GET A JOIN US IN SEPTEMBER! ABOUT OUR COURSES, VIEW OUR FACILITIES, SPEAK TO FEEL FOR STUDENT LIFE AT TUTORS ABOUT WHAT YOU’RE INTERESTED IN STUDYING ST HELENS COLLEGE. AND RECEIVE CAREERS ADVICE AND GUIDANCE. JULY 2017 AUGUST 2017 WEDNESDAY 5TH OCTOBER 2016 TUESDAY THURSDAY 5 5PM - 7PM WEDNESDAY 30TH NOVEMBER 2016 5PM - 7PM 4 24 WEDNESDAY 8TH FEBRUARY 2017 9AM-11AM 9AM-5PM 5PM - 7PM
Where to go: Where to go: A Level Academy: A Level Academy: Town Centre Campus, Town Centre Campus, Water Street, St Helens WA10 1PP Water Street, St Helens WA10 1PP 13 Upcoming Events Upcoming Events 14 CREATIVE STUDIES
Art and Design 17
Design Technology: 19 Product Design (3D)
Drama and Theatre Studies 21
Media Studies 23
16 ART AND DESIGN
If you’re creative and enjoy exploring a range of disciplines such as fine art, printmaking, digital photography and 3D drawing, then this A level could be for you. You’ll have the opportunity to develop your own portfolio of work, gain valuable insight from established artists and designers such as world-renowned typeface designer, Bruno Maag and showcase your work at the end of your A level. We have strong links with local employers such as Heart of Glass, Liverpool Everyman Theatre, St Helens Council Arts Service and The Theatre Royal.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
You should have five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including a grade 4 in English and maths. You should have excelled in GCSE art and you will need to have a portfolio of previous work.
PROGRESSION OPTIONS CAREER OPTIONS
Course University Graphic Designer BA (Hons) Fine Art Painting University Centre St Helens Art Gallery Curator
BA (Hons) Graphic Design University Centre St Helens Photographer Interior Designer BA (Hons) Illustration University of Central Lancashire Games Artist Manchester Metropolitan BA (Hons) Fashion University University Lecturer
If you are considering studying Art and Design as a subject on its own, we also offer a Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in Art and Design. Please see our Vocational Prospectus for more information or visit www.sthelens.ac.uk/courses/art-and-design 17 Art and Design A level Design Technology: Product Design (3D) combines the practical aspects of engineering with the skills and mind-set of a designer, as you explore the key relationships between design, manufacturing, materials and marketing. You’ll work your way through the stages of production, from an original idea to prototype and beyond, considering environmental and sustainability issues, costs, safety considerations, materials and market influences. Studying this A level will develop your technical skills, creativity and problem solving skills in preparation for university and a successful career within the design industry.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
You should have at least five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and maths at grade 5.
PROGRESSION OPTIONS CAREER OPTIONS
Course University Product Designer BA (Hons) Graphic Design University Centre St Helens Design Engineer Graphic Designer BA (Hons) Product Design University of Central Lancashire CAD Technician BSc (Hons) Product Design Liverpool John Moores Engineering University Ergonomist BEng (Hons) Industrial Design University of Liverpool Advertising Officer
We are the first general further education College in the Liverpool City Region to achieve STEM Assured Accreditation.
19 Design Technology: Product Design (3D) DRAMA AND THEATRE STUDIES
Drama and Theatre Studies combines the study of directors, practitioners and playwrights such as Shakespeare, Ibsen and Brecht with performance skills, confidence and the ability to interpret and analyse drama. You’ll have the opportunity to attend a range of theatrical productions, and will adopt roles such as performer, director or designer to learn how to create and develop original ideas. Experienced tutors will encourage you to develop your acting, creative skills and confidence in preparation for university and a future career in this creative industry.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
You should have five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English. Although a GCSE in drama would be desirable, it is not essential.
PROGRESSION OPTIONS CAREER OPTIONS
Course University Theatre Director FdA Theatre and Performance University Centre St Helens Broadcast Presenter BA (Hons) Management of Music, The Liverpool Institute for Actor/Actress Entertainment, Theatre & Events Performing Arts TV/Film Producer BA (Hons) Music Theatre University of Central Lancashire Drama Therapist BA (Hons) Education, Theatre Manchester Metropolitan Sound Engineer and Performance University
If you are considering studying Drama and Theatre Studies as a subject on its own, we also offer a Level 3 Extended BTEC Diploma in Performing Arts. Please see our Vocational Prospectus for more information or visit www.sthelens.ac.uk/courses/performing-arts 21 Drama and Theatre Studies MEDIA STUDIES
Media Studies is a creative and interesting subject to explore, focusing on both new and traditional technologies such as TV, radio and press. Through the study of genre, narrative, audience and representation, you’ll develop your understanding of the media and its importance in the world today.
By studying Media Studies, you’ll enhance your ability to analyse key media concepts and platforms, investigate and debate media and produce work according to your own interests.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
You should have at least five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and maths.
PROGRESSION OPTIONS CAREER OPTIONS
Course University Journalist HND Creative Media Production University Centre St Helens Editorial Assistant BA (Hons) Media, Culture Advertising Executive Liverpool John Moores University and Communication Event Organiser BA (Hons) Digital Media University of Salford Multimedia Specialist
BA (Hons) Advertising University of Central Lancashire Digital Copywriter
If you are considering studying Media Studies as a subject on its own, we also offer a Level 3 Extended BTEC Diploma in Creative Media Production. Please see our Vocational Prospectus for more information or visit www.sthelens.ac.uk/courses/creative-media
23 Media Studies ENGLISH AND MATHS
English Language 27
English Literature 29
Mathematics 31
26 ENGLISH LANGUAGE
Delve into the English language through the study of a range of texts and mediums, including song lyrics, excerpts from Facebook or Twitter, media, online communication, film, TV and newspaper articles.
You’ll explore how language is used in the media to influence and inform the public and develop an understanding of how and why language is used in various contexts.
Studying English Language demonstrates to universities and future employers that you have excellent reading and writing skills, the ability to communicate effectively and concisely and an in-depth understanding of one of the most common languages in the world.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
You should have five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including a grade 5 in English and preferably a grade 4 in English literature.
PROGRESSION OPTIONS CAREER OPTIONS
Course University Digital Copywriter
BA (Hons) Journalism University of Central Lancashire Editorial Assistant
BA (Hons) Creative Writing Manchester Metropolitan Marketing Officer University School Teacher BA (Hons) English Language Edge Hill University Journalist
BA (Hons) Marketing Liverpool John Moores Public Relations Officer University
This A level subject has 100% pass rate with high grades (A*- C)!
27 English Language ENGLISH LITERATURE
A level English Literature explores the works of famous writers, allowing you to develop your own ideas and interpretations of some of the most notable novels, plays and poems of all time. You’ll analyse and compare various texts such as Charlotte Bronte’s Jane Eyre and Shakespeare’s Taming the Shrew, to gain a strong understanding of the writer’s motives and methods. Studying English Literature will enhance your skills in analytical thinking, research and writing, enabling you to demonstrate these abilities to universities and future employers.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
You should have five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including maths and a grade 5 in English.
PROGRESSION OPTIONS CAREER OPTIONS
Course University Advertising Copywriter
BA (Hons) English Literature University of Central Lancashire Editorial Assistant
BA (Hons) Creative Writing Manchester Metropolitan Public Relations Officer University School Teacher BA (Hons) Advertising and University of Chester Journalist Journalism Marketing Executive BA (Hons) Journalism Liverpool John Moores University
This A level subject has 100% pass rate with high grades (A*- C)!
29 English Literature MATHEMATICS
A level Mathematics is very different in comparison to the knowledge and skills you will have previously gained at GCSE level.
You’ll take a more investigative approach, understanding how mathematics is used to model real- life situations such as genetic inheritance, pin codes, putting hardware into space and building to withstand earthquakes.
Extending your knowledge of algebra, trigonometry, geometry and statistics, you’ll learn how to solve problems using graphical calculators and computer packages.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
You should have five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including a grade 4 in English and a grade 5 in maths.
PROGRESSION OPTIONS CAREER OPTIONS
Course University Quantity Surveyor
BSc (Hons) Computer Science Edge Hill University Investment Banker
Statistician BSc (Hons) Civil Engineering University of Salford School Teacher BA (Hons) Physics University of Central Lancashire Software Tester
BSc (Hons) Mathematics University of Manchester Chartered Accountant and Physics
We are the first general further education College in the Liverpool City Region to achieve STEM Assured Accreditation. 31 Mathematics HUMANITIES
Business 35
Government and Politics 37
History 39
Religious Studies 41
34 BUSINESS
Whether you have a passion for entrepreneurialism or an interest in leadership and management, this A level in Business can be applied to a broad range of career opportunities. Business provides a clear introduction to the way businesses operate through the study of business objectives, corporate strategy, external influences,accounting and finance, plus additional human resources, operations management and marketing topics. After completing this A level, you will have developed your ability to analyse data and think critically, in preparation for university and your future career.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
You should have five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and maths.
PROGRESSION OPTIONS CAREER OPTIONS
Course University Human Resources Officer
HNC Business University Centre St Helens Digital Marketing Officer
BA (Hons) Accounting Finance University of Central Lancashire Business Manager Chartered Accountant BSc (Hons) Business University of Chester Management Economist
BA (Hons) Marketing Manchester Metropolitan Logistics Manager Management University
We have secured £3million funding to launch our Northern Logistics Academy. There are lots business and management career opportunities in logistics.
35 Business GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS
A level Government and Politics is an extremely exciting and varied subject, which relates to the latest issues highlighted in the media such as the current unrest in Iraq and Syria, the health service and education.
In a world that is ever changing, keeping up to date with the contemporary political environment is crucial in understanding new laws, movements and economic climate. By studying Government and Politics, you will gain an in-depth understanding of how governments operate, how political systems influence our daily lives, ideologies that have shaped our society and the national and international impacts of social policy.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
You should have at least five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and maths. There is no requirement to have studied a subject relating to government and politics at GCSE level.
PROGRESSION OPTIONS CAREER OPTIONS
Course University Public Relations Executive
FdA Criminal Justice University Centre St Helens Social Researcher
FdA Social Policy, Health and University Centre St Helens Public Affairs Consultant Housing Commercial Law Solicitor BA (Hons) Economics and University of Chester Politics Journalist BA (Hons) Politics and Liverpool Hope University Welfare Rights Officer International Relations
You’ll have the opportunity to take part in trips such as the Houses of Parliament and the Old Bailey in London!
37 Government and Politics HISTORY
Historical events have shaped society worldwide into what it is today and by understanding how people lived in the past, we are able to understand why people act the way they do today. A level History explores the value and significance of world events in the past, providing a deeper understanding of social, cultural, religious and ethnic diversity. You’ll investigate the industrial revolution in Britain, research what shaped the USA into a super state from 1865 to 1975 and explore the making of modern Britain.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
You should have at least five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and maths. There is no requirement to have studied a subject relating to history at GCSE level.
PROGRESSION OPTIONS CAREER OPTIONS
Course University Historian FdA Criminal Justice University Centre St Helens Museum/Gallery Curator Liverpool John Moores BA (Hons) History School Teacher University Social Researcher BA (Hons) Economics University of Chester and History Archaeologist
BSc (Hons) Archaeology University of Liverpool Archivist
This A level subject has 100% pass rate!
39 History RELIGIOUS STUDIES
If you enjoy seeing things from a different perspective and critically analysing contentious issues, A level Religious Studies could be an excellent choice for you.
You will be involved in ethical and philosophical debates, and encouraged to question and consider your own attitudes, values, beliefs and opinions. Studying topics such as genetic engineering, euthanasia and capital punishment, will not only enable you to gain in-depth knowledge into many issues that affect our society today but will also help you to develop your research skills and the ability to construct a reasoned argument.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
You should have at least five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and maths.
PROGRESSION OPTIONS CAREER OPTIONS
Course University Social Worker
FdA Criminal Justice University Centre St Helens Civil Service Administrator
FdA Social Policy, Health and Solicitor University Centre St Helens Housing University Lecturer BA (Hons) Theological Studies University of Manchester in Philosophy and Ethics Criminal Psychologist BA (Hons) Religion, Culture University of Central Lancashire Youth Worker and Society
Benefit from special guest speakers such as scientists and researchers, go on trips to places such as Auschwitz in Poland and visit museums and religious sites.
41 Religious Studies SCIENCES
Biology 45
Chemistry 47
Computer Science 49
Physical Education 51
44 BIOLOGY
Biology is the science of life. By studying Biology at A level, you will develop the skills and knowledge that are crucial to making connections and associations between the matter around you. You’ll have the chance to develop your own hypotheses as you investigate molecules, cells, organisms and genetics, conduct practical experiments such as animal dissection and explore the realms of cell division using microscopes. Studying Biology could lead to a wide range of biological sciences at university, but it is also essential should you wish to pursue a career in clinical professions such as veterinary science and medicine.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
You should have five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including a grade 4 in English, a grade 5 in maths and a grade 5 in science or in separate sciences.
PROGRESSION OPTIONS CAREER OPTIONS
Course University Doctor
FdSc Applied Microbiology University Centre St Helens Veterinarian Physician
BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science University of Central Lancashire Research Scientist Marine Biologist BSc (Hons) Conservation Biology University of Chester Pharmacologist BSc (Hons) Marine Biology with University of Liverpool Oceanography Forensic Scientist
If you are considering studying Science as a subject on its own, we also offer a Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in Applied Science. Please see our Vocational Prospectus for more information or visit www.sthelens.ac.uk/courses/science 45 Biology CHEMISTRY
Chemistry is the study of all chemical compositions and processes, in order to better understand the way in which materials are structured and how they react in certain situations. By studying Chemistry at A level, you’ll explore atomic structure, thermodynamics and periodicity whilst conducting practical experiments in the laboratory such as inorganic tests and redox titrations. Upon completing this A level, you’ll have developed valuable laboratory skills and chemical techniques in preparation for university and your future career.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
You should have five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including a grade 4 in English, a grade 5 in maths and a grade 5 in science or separate sciences.
PROGRESSION OPTIONS CAREER OPTIONS
Course University Pharmacologist
HNC Applied Chemistry University Centre St Helens Research Scientist
BSc (Hons) Natural Sciences University of Chester Chemical Engineer
BEng (Hons) Chemical Environmental Chemist University of Manchester Engineering Forensic Scientist Liverpool John Moores BSc (Hons) Forensic Science University Medicinal Chemist
If you are considering studying Science as a subject on its own, we also offer a Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in Applied Science. Please see our Vocational Prospectus for more information or visit www.sthelens.ac.uk/courses/science 47 Chemistry COMPUTER SCIENCE
Computer Science is the exploration of the theory and practice behind computer systems, networks, hardware and software engineering. With extensive advancements in technology, you’ll be developing your knowledge of Computer Science at a more complex level, from understanding the fundamentals of programming and computation theories to computer architecture and server security. Computer Science is a very creative subject that combines invention and methodical thinking, and provides a strong platform for progressing onto university and a career within Computing and IT.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
You should have five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including a grade 4 in English and a grade 5 in maths. Although a GCSE in computing would be desirable, it is not essential.
PROGRESSION OPTIONS CAREER OPTIONS
Course University Multimedia Programmer
FdSc Applied Computing University Centre St Helens Software Engineer
BA (Hons) Computer Science University of Chester Security Architect
BSc (Hons) Computing Website Developer Edge Hill University (Games Programming) Database Administrator BSc (Hons) Computer Manchester Metropolitan Forensics and Security University Computer Games
Impress future employers and universities by gaining Microsoft Office Specialist Master status. Microsoft Office Specialist Master status is a globally recognised qualification and is awarded to those who pass an Expert level exam. 49 Computer Science PHYSICAL EDUCATION
If you are a sports enthusiast or an active participant, then this A level in Physical Education could be ideal for you.
You’ll investigate the factors that contribute to improving performance in physical activity and sport, develop your understanding of physiology including injury and movement and understand the fundamentals of sport psychology and technology. Studying Physical Education could lead to a wide range of degrees at university and career opportunities within physiotherapy, education, health promotion and fitness.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
You should have five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and maths. A GCSE in PE is not essential, although those who have studied PE will find that this A level builds on the information and skills previously gained.
PROGRESSION OPTIONS CAREER OPTIONS
Course University Physiotherapist FdSc Exercise, Health University Centre St Helens Sports Development Officer and Fitness
BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy University of Central Lancashire School Teacher Psychologist BSc (Hons) Sport and University of Chester Exercise Science Sports Coach BA (Hons) Coaching and Manchester Metropolitan Personal Trainer Sport Development University
Use our gym facilities, sports hall, exercise studio and the great outdoors to develop your knowledge and skills! 51 Physical Education SOCIAL SCIENCES
Law 55
Psychology 57
Sociology 59
54 LAW
Law plays a pivotal role in our society, affecting many aspects of our lives from protecting our human rights and property to enforcing justice. You will develop your knowledge of the legal system, understanding how it works, how laws are made, the roles of legal professionals and the exploration of the rights and wrongs of the law.
By studying Law, you’ll develop your ability to analyse and solve problems, communicate arguments clearly and think critically.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
You should have five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and maths.
PROGRESSION OPTIONS CAREER OPTIONS
Course University Solicitor
FdA Criminal Justice University Centre St Helens Chartered Accountant Barrister BSc (Hons) Criminology University of Chester University Lecturer BA (Hons) Law with Politics University of Manchester Business Manager LLB (Hons) Law University of Liverpool Public Relations Officer
You’ll have the opportunity to take part in trips to local magistrates’ courts, crown courts and conferences in London!
55 Law PSYCHOLOGY
Ever wondered if prison really does change criminal behaviour? Or why some people conform and others don’t? A level Psychology is a popular and challenging subject. You’ll explore the work of some of the most influentialpsychologists in the world such as Sigmund Freud, Jean Piaget and Stanley Milgram including their infamous experiments. You’ll gain an in-depth understanding of a wide range of topics such as social influence and human behaviour, memory and attachment theories, psychopathology, research methods, schizophrenia and biopsychology.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
You should have at least five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and maths at grade 5.
PROGRESSION OPTIONS CAREER OPTIONS
Course University Criminologist BSc (Hons) Forensic University of Central Lancashire Psychology Occupational Therapist BSc (Hons) Criminology University of Chester Clinical Psychologist and Psychology University Lecturer BSc (Hons) Psychological University of Liverpool Sciences Psychotherapist
BSc (Hons) Psychology Liverpool John Moores University Advertising Executive
This A level subject has 100% pass rate with high grades (A*- C)!
57 Psychology SOCIOLOGY
A level Sociology is the study of the social world in which you live in. Why do certain groups of people behave in a certain way? How does the media influence society? You will develop your knowledge and understanding of key sociological concepts and themes such as socialisation, culture, identity and power, inequality and control. Sociology will enhance your analytical skills and your presentation skills when proposing ideas and arguments, preparing you for university and a career within the industry.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
You should have at least five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and maths.
PROGRESSION OPTIONS CAREER OPTIONS
Course University Social Worker FdA Criminal Justice University Centre St Helens Public Relations Officer Housing Officer FdA Social Policy, Health University Centre St Helens and Housing Community Development Worker BSc (Hons) Sociology University of Chester Probation Officer BA (Hons) Childhood and Liverpool Hope University Youth and Sociology Social Researcher
This A level subject has 100% pass rate with high grades (A*- C)!
59 Sociology Once you have finished your studies at St Helens College you could progress and continue by studying for your degree at... UNIVERSITY CENTRE ST HELENS
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