ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Combined science 55 or separate sciences 5 in biology, chemistry & physics; maths 5; English 5

ASSESSMENT

Coursework (internally assessed) and exams (externally assessed)

WORKS WELL WITH

Biology, Health & Social Care, Psychology, Business Studies

MODULES AND UNITS

Year 12: fundamental biology, chemistry and physics · laboratory techniques and safe working · planning, carrying out and evaluating investigations · data handling and report writing · science in real world contexts

Year 13: extended practical investigations and independent research · advanced data analysis · science in health, forensics or environmental science · preparing for university, apprenticeships or science careers

A TYPICAL LESSON

A typical lesson would include the review and consolidation of prior key knowledge before introducing new content through teaching and discussion, as well as a strong practical science element. Students are encouraged to explore ideas collaboratively and independently, all designed to develop laboratory skills and deepen understanding of the work of a scientist.

TRIPS AND ENRICHMENT

Potential visits to local companies and the possibility of guest speakers from both local and national organisations.

LEADS TO

University degrees (often combined with other A Levels), such as biomedical science, nursing, environmental science or forensic science · Apprenticeships in science-based industries · Careers in healthcare, laboratory science, environmental work, pharmaceuticals, engineering support and more.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Art, photography, media or textiles 6; English language 5

ASSESSMENT

Personal investigation with written study (60%); externally set practical exam (40%)

WORKS WELL WITH

Photography, Textiles, Product Design, Media Studies, English Literature

MODULES AND UNITS

Practical experimentation and exploration, technical skill development, historical and contemporary investigation and analysis, aesthetic understanding and critical judgement, building a confident understanding of visual grammar: line, shape, colour, tone and texture.

A TYPICAL LESSON

Lessons are studio-based and practical. Students develop their own projects through drawing, experimenting with media and refining ideas. This is alongside one-to-one tutorials and group critiques. Time is also spent researching artists and annotating sketchbooks to connect practical work to wider art and design.

TRIPS AND ENRICHMENT

Gallery and exhibition visits to inspire and inform project work, plus the end-of-year Exhibition of Creativity, where students display their work to the school and the public.

LEADS TO

Past students have gone on to study marine photography, natural history illustration, journalism, graphic design, film and TV, animation, architecture, ceramics and glass, and design and innovation. The course also builds research, creativity, innovation and communication skills that matter in every field.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Biology 6 or trilogy science 66; maths 6; English 5

ASSESSMENT

Three written exams (37%, 37% and 26%) plus a Practical Endorsement

WORKS WELL WITH

Chemistry, Psychology, Maths, PE

MODULES AND UNITS

Advanced study of living organisms: physical structure, chemical processes, molecular interactions, physiological mechanisms, development and evolution, examined across biological processes, biological diversity and unified biology, with the Practical Endorsement running alongside

A TYPICAL LESSON

Lessons usually begin with a recap of prior learning before new content is introduced through explanation, diagrams and discussion. Regular practical work develops laboratory skills for the Practical Endorsement, and lessons often finish with exam-style questions to check understanding.

TRIPS AND ENRICHMENT

Fieldwork to study ecology in local habitats, visiting speakers from science careers, and the chance to enter national competitions such as the Biology Olympiad.

LEADS TO

Healthcare, medicine, dentistry, physiotherapy, pharmacology, biochemistry, genetics, bioengineering, bioinformatics, forensic science, psychology, horticulture, conservation, botany, zoology, oceanography, marine biology, science journalism and research.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Business 5; maths 5; English 5. If no GCSE business, discuss with the department

ASSESSMENT

Three written exams, 2 hours each (35%, 35% and 30%)

WORKS WELL WITH

Maths, Geography, Politics

MODULES AND UNITS

Year 12: Theme 1, Marketing and people · Theme 2, Managing business activities.

Year 13: Theme 3, Business decisions and strategy · Theme 4, Global business. Year 13 also involves a small research project based on a market or industry, part of a pre-release scenario. The exact topic changes each year.

A TYPICAL LESSON

Lessons are based around discussion, making use of up-to-date and relevant case studies. Students make notes and summarise their discussions, and complete exam questions to show their understanding. Outside of lessons, students use case studies to complete consolidation tasks.

TRIPS AND ENRICHMENT

We have links with a number of local businesses. Exact enrichment will vary each year, but historical experiences have included visits to Trewithen Dairy, events at Plymouth University and a number of external speakers.

LEADS TO

Any business course; accounting, marketing (for example in social media), data analysis, business consulting, human resources. This will also set you up well for apprenticeships.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Chemistry 6 or trilogy science 66; maths 6

ASSESSMENT

Three external exams (37%, 37% and 26%) plus a Practical Endorsement

WORKS WELL WITH

Biology, Physics, Maths, Psychology or Geography

MODULES AND UNITS

Year 12: Development of practical skills · Foundations in chemistry (atoms and equations, bonding, amount of substance) · Acid - base and redox reactions · Periodic table and energy · Core organic chemistry

Year 13: Physical chemistry and transition elements · Organic chemistry and analysis · Practical skills are assessed throughout both years.

A TYPICAL LESSON

A typical OCR A Level Chemistry lesson involves learning and applying key chemical concepts such as atomic structure, bonding, energetics, kinetics or organic reactions, through a mixture of teacher modelling and explanation (calculations, problem-solving), practical work and exam-style questions.

TRIPS AND ENRICHMENT

We offer the Chemistry Olympiad each year to students who are interested.

LEADS TO

Healthcare: doctor, dentist, pharmacist, biomedical scientist · Science and research: chemist, forensic scientist, environmental scientist · Engineering and industry: chemical engineer, materials scientist, energy specialist · Emerging fields: pharmaceuticals, sustainable energy, climate science, biotechnology.   Also valued in business, law and finance.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

English Language 5. No previous study of Criminology is required

ASSESSMENT

Two controlled internal assessments (50%) and two external exams (50%)

WORKS WELL WITH

Psychology, Politics, History, English, Philosophy & Ethics

MODULES AND UNITS

Year 12: Changing Awareness of Crime · Criminological Theories

Year 13: Crime Scene to Courtroom · Crime and Punishment

A TYPICAL LESSON

Lessons combine teacher-led explanation with discussion of real cases and close analysis of evidence, including crime statistics and media reports. You will develop written arguments, apply criminological theories to case studies and undertake projects such as awareness campaigns designed to address crime-related issues.

TRIPS AND ENRICHMENT

Students regularly analyse current crime reporting, investigate real case studies and explore campaigns designed to influence public awareness of crime and justice issues.

LEADS TO

Further study in Criminology, Criminal Justice, Law, Sociology and Psychology, and careers such as policing, probation, legal services, social work and the prison service.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Drama 5; English language 5. Must be prepared to attend rehearsals, often after school

ASSESSMENT

Devised piece and portfolio (40%), performance exam (20%), written exam (40%)

WORKS WELL WITH

English Literature, Music, Media Studies, Psychology

MODULES AND UNITS

Devising an original piece with a portfolio of evidence; performing a group scripted piece and a monologue; studying two set texts from actor, director and technician perspectives; and analysing one piece of live theatre. Reading plays, watching performances and researching acting methodology outside lessons are key to success.

A TYPICAL LESSON

Many lessons are practical, in the studio: exploring practitioners and techniques, rehearsing scenes and devising work in groups. Others focus on reading and analysing set texts from actor, director and designer perspectives, and on reviewing live theatre.

TRIPS AND ENRICHMENT

Theatre trips to see live productions, which feed directly into the written exam, plus involvement in school productions and performances.

LEADS TO

Drama school or university to study acting, script writing, film studies or directing; backstage and technical theatre roles in costume, set, lighting and sound design, and stunts; teaching or training others in performance.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

English language 5; English literature 4

ASSESSMENT

Two written exams, 2 hours 30 each (80%), and two pieces of coursework (NEA) (20%)

WORKS WELL WITH

Media studies, psychology and the social sciences

MODULES AND UNITS

Year 12: Grammar toolkit · Representation of individuals and groups · Theories about gender and language · Accents and dialects · Occupational language · Child language acquisition · Starting the NEA

Year 13: Completion of NEA · World Englishes and global English · Language change over time · Revision of all topics · Exam practice

A TYPICAL LESSON

English language often relies on discussions of theories and case studies. We will teach you some tools for analysis and a range of theories and then help you to apply them to a number of varied nonfiction texts. You should be prepared to write pieces of analysis and discuss your ideas with others in the class.

TRIPS AND ENRICHMENT

We have previously taken students to a language conference in London to see the top researchers in the UK present their up-to-date findings and ideas. We subscribe to a magazine aimed at A-level students, which supports understanding of current ideas and research in the world of linguistics.

LEADS TO

This subject can lead directly to courses in English, linguistics, speech therapy, journalism and archive studies. It would be a useful base for law, teaching, politics and any jobs requiring critical thinking and analysis.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

English literature 6; English language 5

ASSESSMENT

Two written exams (40% each) and coursework (NEA) (20%)

WORKS WELL WITH

English Language, History, Philosophy & Ethics, Drama, Media Studies

MODULES AND UNITS

Aspects of Tragedy: Othello, Death of a Salesman, Tess of the D’Urbervilles, Songs of Innocence and Experience. Political and Social Protest: The Handmaid’s Tale, The Kite Runner. Theory and Independence (coursework across Years 12–13): the AQA Critical Anthology, a novel and poetry read through feminist, Marxist and eco-critical lenses.

A TYPICAL LESSON

Lessons mix group investigations, teacher and student-led presentations, close analysis and discussion, and video interpretations of some texts.

TRIPS AND ENRICHMENT

Theatre trips to see set texts in performance, visiting speakers, and the chance to enter essay and creative writing competitions.

LEADS TO

Excellent training for careers involving communication, such as teaching, journalism, creative writing and publishing, and a strong background for further study in English, media, theatre, education, speech therapy, law, psychology and sociology.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

French 6

ASSESSMENT

Three exams: listening, reading and writing (50%); essay writing (20%); speaking (30%)

WORKS WELL WITH

Spanish, English Literature, History, Business

MODULES AND UNITS

In-depth analytical study of a novel and a film, plus an individual research project on a topic linked to a French-speaking country and culture, presented and discussed in French.

A TYPICAL LESSON

Lessons are taught largely in French, mixing listening, reading and speaking activities on contemporary themes with grammar practice and translation. Students discuss the set novel and film, build vocabulary and regularly practice for the speaking exam.

TRIPS AND ENRICHMENT

Opportunities to practice with native speakers, cultural events and French film, and language competitions.

LEADS TO

University study of languages, alone or combined with business, management, law, administration, ICT, engineering, international marketing or journalism. Careers include translating and interpreting, journalism, law, publishing, museum curation and working for an international company.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Geography 5. If no GCSE geography, discuss with the department

ASSESSMENT

Two exams (40% each) and coursework (20%)

WORKS WELL WITH

History and other humanities, English Language, Biology and Maths

MODULES AND UNITS

Year 12: hazards, changing places, coasts and coursework.

Year 13: global systems and global governance, contemporary urban environments, and water and carbon cycles. Coursework is on a topic of your choice.

A TYPICAL LESSON

A typical lesson includes the review and consolidation of key knowledge before introducing new content through engaging teaching and discussion. Students are encouraged to explore ideas collaboratively through class discussion, paired activities and small-group tasks designed to deepen understanding of contemporary geographical issues.

TRIPS AND ENRICHMENT

Four days of fieldwork over the two years. Trip to London.

LEADS TO

Many of our students go on to study geography at a higher level, increasingly specialising in areas such as hydrology (rivers), urban planning, hazard management, GIS and oceanography. Geographers are very employable people! They are much sought after by various employers due to their transferable skills. It offers careers in tourism, conservation, meteorology, environmental issues, local government and many more.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Maths 4; English 4; additional interview with the department

ASSESSMENT

Two mandatory externally assessed units, two mandatory NEA units and two optional NEA units

WORKS WELL WITH

Psychology, Applied Science, Biology, Sport

MODULES AND UNITS

Students study the principles behind good care, from equality and rights to health and safety, alongside anatomy and physiology. Coursework focuses on person-centred care and mental health support, building the research, organisation and time management skills needed in the sector.

A TYPICAL LESSON

Lessons combine teaching of key concepts with discussion of real care scenarios and case studies. Students work on coursework assignments with guidance, practice for external exams, and draw on their work experience to link theory to practice.

TRIPS AND ENRICHMENT

Students benefit from visiting speakers working across health and social care, giving them firsthand insight into careers in the sector and helping them connect what they learn in lessons to real practice.

LEADS TO

BSc Nursing (Adult/Child/Learning disabilities/ Mental health), BSc Midwifery, BSc Health and Social Care, BSc Healthcare and Health Science, BSc Health Sciences, BSc Occupational Therapy, BSc Paramedic Science, BSc Public Health and Wellbeing, BA Social Work

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

History 5

ASSESSMENT

Three written exams (80%) and coursework (NEA) (20%)

WORKS WELL WITH

English Literature, Politics, Philosophy & Ethics, Geography

MODULES AND UNITS

Three taught units spanning political and social history: Russia 1894–1941, the Early Tudors 1485–1558, and Britain and Ireland 1798–1921, plus a coursework piece on a topic of your choice.

A TYPICAL LESSON

Lessons build confidence to discuss, present, read constructively and extract information. You’ll write short and extended answers, present through other media, and work co-operatively in groups.

TRIPS AND ENRICHMENT

Four day residential to Dublin.

LEADS TO

Hugely respected by universities and employers, History leads to marketing, media, politics, journalism, teaching, law and more. Its transferable skills (evaluating evidence, supporting arguments, investigation and research) prepare you well for higher education and work.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Maths 6

ASSESSMENT

Three written exams, 2 hours each, covering pure, mechanics and statistics

WORKS WELL WITH

Physics, Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Psychology

MODULES AND UNITS

The Pure Mathematics part builds on GCSE skills, enhancing understanding of proof, trigonometry, sequences, and series, while introducing exponentials, logarithms, differentiation, and integration. Applied Mathematics forms one-third of the course, covering mechanics with motion and forces, plus statistics, focusing on probability, data analysis, and distributions, including the Normal distribution.

A TYPICAL LESSON

Our lessons aim to build confident, independent mathematicians who think critically and solve problems. Through clear explanations, examples, discussion, and practice, students deepen understanding and problem-solving skills. Working alone and together, they explore ideas, tackle new problems, and apply knowledge. They can ask questions, share methods, and gain confidence beyond class.

TRIPS AND ENRICHMENT

The UK Mathematics Trust Senior Maths Challenge and university maths talks and masterclasses.

LEADS TO

A Level Mathematics is a respected qualification valued by top universities and employers. It leads to diverse degrees and careers like engineering, medicine, finance, and computing. Students gain vital skills in logic, analysis, and problem-solving for a data-driven world.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Maths 4/5

ASSESSMENT

Two written exams, 1 hour 30 minutes each

WORKS WELL WITH

Geography, Business, Psychology

MODULES AND UNITS

Students explore the mathematics behind everyday financial decisions, including payslips, taxation, National Insurance, loans, mortgages, savings and the cost of borrowing. They also develop skills in analysing and interpreting data, using statistical techniques, making estimates and critically evaluating information. Throughout the course, students learn to apply their mathematical knowledge to unfamiliar situations and make reasoned, informed judgements.

A TYPICAL LESSON

Lessons make maths relevant through real-world problems like comparing mortgages, exploring borrowing costs, or analysing media statistics. Students discuss, practice, and collaborate to understand new situations, try different methods, and build confidence, reasoning, and problem-solving skills that extend well beyond the classroom.

TRIPS AND ENRICHMENT

Opportunities to explore mathematics beyond the classroom through personal finance activities, practical investigations and projects using real world data, developing financial awareness and the skills to make informed decisions.

LEADS TO

Core Maths is a valuable qualification for students progressing to university, apprenticeships or employment. It is particularly beneficial for courses and careers involving data analysis, statistics, finance or scientific research, including Psychology, Geography, Business, Biology and Health Sciences. Students develop transferable skills in critical thinking, problem-solving and financial literacy that are valued by universities and employers alike.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

4 in two: English language, English literature, media/film, drama, art, photography

ASSESSMENT

Two written exams and a practical production project (NEA)

WORKS WELL WITH

English Language, Photography, Drama, Art & Design, Business

MODULES AND UNITS

Platforms from vloggers to feature film, historical and contemporary. Example texts include Hammer Horror’s The Kiss of the Vampire, Marvel’s Black Panther and Beyoncé’s Formation video. For the NEA you produce two media products, choosing from film, TV, internet, music or magazines.

A TYPICAL LESSON

Lessons mix analysis and production. Students study set media products using key theories, discuss how media shapes audiences and practice exam responses. Practical lessons in the media suite develop planning, filming and editing skills for the NEA.

TRIPS AND ENRICHMENT

Visits to media organisations or university media departments, and opportunities to work on real briefs for school events.

LEADS TO

Journalism, broadcasting, animation, marketing, music and media, with a strong background for degrees in film and media, theatre, journalism, English, marketing, psychology and sociology. Most media students continue into higher education.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Performing music at grade 5 or discuss with the department

ASSESSMENT

Appraising exam (40%), performance (35%) and two compositions (25%)

WORKS WELL WITH

Drama, English Literature, Media Studies, Maths

MODULES AND UNITS

Music in its historical and cultural contexts; musical interpretation and instrumental technique for performing; and melody, harmony and counterpoint across traditional styles, applied to your own compositions: one to an exam board brief and one free composition, at least four and a half minutes in total.

A TYPICAL LESSON

Lessons combine listening and analysis of set works with composition and harmony exercises. Students also prepare and rehearse performance pieces with regular feedback, and develop their own compositions.

TRIPS AND ENRICHMENT

Performance opportunities in school concerts and events, trips to live performances, and the chance to work with visiting musicians.

LEADS TO

University or conservatoire study, and careers as a performer, composer, instrumentalist, sound engineer, music therapist or music teacher. A Level Music also opens access to most other arts and science courses.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

English language 6; English literature 6

ASSESSMENT

Three written exams, 2 hours each: philosophy, ethics and developments

WORKS WELL WITH

History, English Literature, Politics, Psychology, Criminology

MODULES AND UNITS

Three units (Philosophy, Ethics and Developments) study famous ideas and theories, ancient and modern, that have shaped law, the arts, politics and belief, including whether religion shapes society or society shapes religion.

A TYPICAL LESSON

Plenty of discussion, debate and reflection, reformulating your ideas and developing persuasive arguments through writing and discussion.

TRIPS AND ENRICHMENT

Visiting speakers, philosophy conferences and student debates.

LEADS TO

Law, journalism, medicine, the media, the police, education and politics. Universities and employers value the transferable skills they develop: reasoning, critical analysis and persuasive communication.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Art, photography, media or textiles 6; English language 5

ASSESSMENT

Personal investigation with written study (60%); externally set practical exam (40%)

WORKS WELL WITH

Art & Design, Media Studies,
Textiles, Product Design

MODULES AND UNITS

Begin in the darkroom, layering negatives and creating camera-less prints, then process and print your own photographs from negatives before moving on to DSLR work and digital editing. Throughout: experimentation, technical skill, aesthetic understanding and critical selection.

A TYPICAL LESSON

Lessons combine practical shooting and darkroom or digital editing with research into photographers. Students develop personal projects through experimentation, reflect on their work in sketchbooks, and receive one-to-one feedback through tutorials and group critiques.

TRIPS AND ENRICHMENT

Gallery and exhibition visits, location shoots, and the end-of-year Exhibition of Creativity.

LEADS TO

Past students have progressed to forensics, medical imaging, marine photography, journalism, computer programming, film and TV, animation, architecture and graphic design, with wider routes into illustration, advertising and marketing.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

PE 5; trilogy science 55. Must play sport regularly. If no GCSE PE, science 6 is required.

ASSESSMENT

Papers worth 30%, 20% and
20%, plus non-exam practical performance or coaching (30%)

WORKS WELL WITH

Biology, Psychology, Health &
Social Care, Sport

MODULES AND UNITS

Year 12: Applied anatomy and physiology ·
Skill acquisition · Sport and society · Practical performance / coaching

Year 13: Exercise physiology and biomechanics · Sport psychology · Sport and society and technology in sport · Practical performance / coaching · Evaluation and analysis of performance (EAPI)

A TYPICAL LESSON

Lessons combine theory, discussion, practical examples and examination practice. Students regularly apply concepts to real sporting situations, analyse performance, complete practical activities and develop extended written responses in preparation for assessment.

TRIPS AND ENRICHMENT

Students have opportunities to engage in leadership, coaching, officiating, practical performance, sports analysis and enrichment activities linked to local and national sporting events.

LEADS TO

Sports Science, Physiotherapy, Teaching, Coaching, Strength & Conditioning, Sports Therapy, Sports Journalism, Sports Management, The Armed Forces,
The Police and a wide range of university degree programmes.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Physics 6 or trilogy science 66; maths 6

ASSESSMENT

Three written exams at the end of Year 13, plus a pass/fail Practical Endorsement

WORKS WELL WITH

Maths, Chemistry, Biology,
Product Design

MODULES AND UNITS

Year 12 (AS Level): Modules 1–4: Development of practical skills · Foundations of physics · Forces and motion · Electrons, waves and photons

Year 13 (A Level): Modules 5–6: Newtonian world and astrophysics · Particles and medical physics

A TYPICAL LESSON

Lessons usually start with a short recap of prior learning, followed by the introduction of a new concept using explanations, examples and demonstrations. Teachers often model solving example problems before students practice similar style questions independently, with support available. Often, lessons include practical experiments to reinforce concepts as well as develop data and analysis skills.

TRIPS AND ENRICHMENT

We regularly take part in the Exeter University Physics Challenge, competing against a range of pupils from across all Southwest Counties. Great fun, and an excellent addition to your UCAS application and personal statement.

LEADS TO

Studying OCR A Level Physics opens pathways to a wide range of university courses, including Physics, Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace), Astrophysics, Mathematics, and Computer Science. It also supports entry into career pathways such as engineering, research science, data analysis, medicine (with additional qualifications), and technology industries.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

English language 6. GCSE History helpful but not essential

ASSESSMENT

Three two-hour written exams at the end of Year 13; no coursework

WORKS WELL WITH

History, English Literature, Geography, Criminology

MODULES AND UNITS

Year 12: UK Politics (democracy and participation, parties, electoral systems, voting behaviour, the media) · UK Government (the constitution, Parliament, the Prime Minister and executive)

Year 13: Political ideas (conservatism, liberalism, socialism, feminism, anarchism) · Global Politics (globalisation, global governance, power and development, human rights, the environment, the EU)

A TYPICAL LESSON

Lessons use current political examples to explain how institutions and ideas work. Preparation reading and Cornell notes feed into retrieval practice, discussion, source analysis and modelled writing.

TRIPS AND ENRICHMENT

Visits to Parliament or local council meetings, visiting speakers and debating opportunities.

LEADS TO

University courses include Politics, International Relations, Law, History and Journalism.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Engineering 4 or product design 4. BTEC engineering or construction are also considered.

ASSESSMENT

Two written exams (50%) and a substantial design and make project (NEA) (50%)

WORKS WELL WITH

Two written exams (50%) and a substantial design and make project (NEA) (50%)

MODULES AND UNITS

Technical principles · Designing and making principles

A TYPICAL LESSON

Product Design A-level lessons are a broad mix of practical, design, theory and research lessons.

TRIPS AND ENRICHMENT

Students are encouraged to source and organise their own visits to designers and makers in line with their NEA research. Students are also encouraged to go to degree show exhibitions for similar subjects and courses.

LEADS TO

Destinations for A-level Product Design students in the past have included universities to undertake degrees in product design, architecture, civil engineering and building surveying; Babcock International (Plymouth) to undertake higher level apprenticeships in marine architecture, mechanical engineering & manufacturing, fabrication and business administration; Princess Yachts (Plymouth) to undertake higher level apprenticeships in carpentry/ boat building.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Biology 6 or trilogy science 66; English 6

ASSESSMENT

Three exams at the end of Year 2; no coursework

WORKS WELL WITH

Any subject involving people, including Health & Social Care and Criminology

MODULES AND UNITS

Year 1: Social influence · Memory attachments · Clinical psychology and mental health · Approaches and research methods

Year 2: Issues and debates · Biopsychology Plus three optional topics: Option 1 Relationships, Gender, Cognition and development · Option 2 Schizophrenia, Eating behaviour and stress · Option 3 Aggression, Forensic psychology, Addiction

A TYPICAL LESSON

A typical lesson starts with a recap of previous material. We will look at the outline of a new theory and analyse relevant research. There will be discussion of concepts and exam questions to consolidate the learning. Students will design and conduct a practical for each topic.

TRIPS AND ENRICHMENT

Plymouth University baby laboratory, revision sessions at other schools.

LEADS TO

Psychology is recognised as a science by universities, and there are many pathways for the subject.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Spanish 6

ASSESSMENT

Three exams: listening, reading and writing (50%); essay writing (20%); speaking (30%)

WORKS WELL WITH

French, English Literature, Geography, Business

MODULES AND UNITS

In-depth analytical study of a novel and a film, plus an individual research project on a topic linked to a Hispanic country and culture, presented and discussed in Spanish.

A TYPICAL LESSON

Lessons are taught largely in Spanish, mixing listening, reading and speaking activities on contemporary themes with grammar practice and translation. Students discuss the set novel and film, build vocabulary and regularly practice for the speaking exam.

TRIPS AND ENRICHMENT

Opportunities to practice with native speakers, cultural events and Spanish-language film, and language competitions.

LEADS TO

University study of languages, alone or combined with business, management, law, administration, ICT, engineering, international marketing or journalism. Careers include translating and interpreting, journalism, law, publishing, museum curation and working for an international company.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

PE 5, science 55, maths 5 and English 5; must play sport regularly

ASSESSMENT

External exams and internal coursework; graded Pass to Distinction*

WORKS WELL WITH

PE, Biology, Psychology, Health & Social Care, Business Studies

MODULES AND UNITS

Mandatory: Body systems and the effects of physical activity · Sports coaching and activity leadership · Sports organisation and development

Optional units may include: Working safely in sport, exercise, health and leisure · Nutrition and diet for sport and exercise · Physical activity for specific groups · Practical skills in sport and physical activities · Sport and exercise psychology · Performance analysis in sport and exercise

A TYPICAL LESSON

Lessons combine classroom learning, practical activities, leadership opportunities, presentations, independent research and coursework. Students regularly apply theory to real sporting environments and develop the professional skills required within the sport and physical activity sector.

TRIPS AND ENRICHMENT

Students have opportunities to coach and lead others, work with younger pupils, gain practical industry experience and develop employability skills. Opportunities to achieve additional industry recognised qualifications may also be available.

LEADS TO

Sport & Exercise Science, Sports Coaching, PE Teaching, Strength & Conditioning, Sports Therapy, Sport Psychology, Leisure Management, Personal Training, Outdoor Education, Armed Forces and Police careers.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Art 5 or textiles 5

ASSESSMENT

Personal investigation (60%); externally set assignment with a 15-hour exam (40%)

WORKS WELL WITH

Art & Design, Photography, Product Design, Business

MODULES AND UNITS

Year 12 (Term 1 & 2): Foundations of textile design - skills building introductory project

Year 12 (Term 3) & Year 13: Personal Investigation coursework project (Component 1)

Externally Set Assignment (Component 2)

A TYPICAL LESSON

A TYPICAL LESSON Typical lessons in Art Textiles are practically led, whether through bespoke workshops, guided practicals, or independent projects shaped by each student’s creative vision. Students explore fabrics and fibres, experimenting with texture, pattern, and design while developing technical skills and a personal style. This immersive, practical approach nurtures curiosity, encourages risk-taking, and inspires students to push the boundaries of textile art.

TRIPS AND ENRICHMENT

Annual visits to Arts University Plymouth and Falmouth University, externally led artist workshops plus an end-of-year student exhibition.

LEADS TO

Many students pursue art courses at university, building on skills and confidence from Art Textiles. This qualification opens creative and professional paths, offering a solid basis for further study and careers. Students advance to courses like Textile Design, Fashion, Surface Pattern, Fine Art, Costume, Interior Design, or Crafts, honing technical skills and creative practice. Whether aiming for a specialist art career or broader creative fields, Art Textiles provides practical skills and confidence in industry.