BTEC MusicIf you play an instrument or sing, or both, this course will further extend your abilities. You will cover such topics as Music and Society, Compos-ing Music, Keyboard Skills, Pop Music, World Music and Session Musicianship. On top of this you will receive a free weekly lesson from a specialist tutor on your chosen instru-ment or voice.

IB MusicThis is a demanding but accessible course for any one interested in music and willing to work hard. It is a combination of the practical and intellectual. The course is made up of four areas: performing, creating, musical investigation (all coursework) and Listening paper (examined). You will investigate a wonderfully diverse range of musical genres, including classical, folk, jazz, music theatre and world. Enrichment opportunities include working with professional musicians and visiting top concert venues such as the Bridgwater Hall.

37

BTEC ActingThis courses provides the chance to develop your acting technique and apply it to a range of roles; you will develop skills in Devising Theatre, Script Writing and Improvisation, Theatre in Education, Contempary Theatre Performance and Acting for Film and TV.

ProgressionAll of these courses lead on to further study at Higher Education, or to applying directly to the Performing Arts industry. Career opportunities include performing, production, choreography, TV, film and voice over work and recording engineers.

Why Cowley? We offer an unrivalled programme of drama and music enrichment opportunities

PE and SportSubject Entry Requirements

BTEC (Sport)

You should have at least 5 GCSEs in a range of subjects, including a good performance at GCSE English.

AS & A Level (Physical Education)

A good level of skill is required in at least two performance areas. Students should have represented their school in their chosen areas. A good B pass grade is required at GCSE with at least a B/C grade achieved in the written Paper.

38

BTEC SportIf you enjoy Sport, can do coursework and meet regular deadlines, then BTEC Sport may well be your choice. Assessed entirely through coursework, BTEC Sport is ideal for anyone who knows that their future lies in sport. You will cover subjects such as The Body in Action, Health and Safety and Training and Fitness for Sport, as well as a huge range of additional units depending on whether you go for Award or Certificate status. Exceptional students may be able to complete units for Diploma status.

Why should I study PE or Sport?The PE and BTEC Sport departments at Cowley are second-to-none in its commitment to extra-curricular activities, leading to Cowley being awarded Sportsmark Gold status. Staff are experienced, committed and professional. Cowley is of course the second home of rugby in St Helens.

What are PE and Sport?PE and Sport both offer you the chance to study Physical Education in a wider context with class based work and practical elements. BTEC Sport is a vocational qualification, whereas PE follows the AS and A Level route.

AS and A Level Physical EducationIn Physical Education you will study theoretical areas such as Anatomy and Physiology, Socio-cultural Studiesand Sports Psychology. A practical component comprises of performing two chosen activities. Students may choose to be assessed as a leader or official in a chosen sport. There will be opportunity for students to gain additional qualifications through referee awards and coaching certificates.

ProgressionThe study of Physical Education and Sport can lead to a number of employment fields, including sport and leisure, recreation management, teaching, the police, sports development, coaching andphysiotherapy.

AS & A Level

Grade B in Mathematics.Pupils who have studied Core & Additional Science need to have a grade B in both courses with an overall grade B in the Physics papers.

Pupils who have studied Biology, Chemistry and Physics seperately need passes in all 3,with Physics and at least one other at B grade or better.

39

Why should I study Physics?Physics is a well-established department with excellent results and passionate teach-ers. Physics is based in newly-refurbished laboratories.

What is Physics?Physics is the study of the behaviour of the physical world, with the aim of furthering your appreciation of developments in modern physical science and technology. It is offered as an A Level or IB qualification.

IB PhysicsIB Physics is designed to develop your awareness of how physicists work and com-municate. It includes significant aspects of experimental technique and will provide students with opportunities to formulate, test and modify scientific hypotheses.

AS and A Level PhysicsA Level Physics offers the chance to further your knowledge of Physics and improve your practical and research skills. Topics covered include Particles, Quantum Phe-nomena and Electricity; Mechanics, Materi-als and Waves; Electromagnetic Fields; Nuclear Instability and Astrophysics.

Assessment is by a combination of exams and practical skills assessment.

ProgressionAs a result of studying A Level or IB Phys-ics, you should be able to demonstrate an understanding of, apply and use scientific facts and concepts, scientific methods and techniques, scientific terminol-ogy and methods of presenting scientific information.

Physics is a valuable preparation for many courses in the Sciences, Mathematics and Business (many universities now offer Science and Manage-ment courses). Other options for university or careers include Medicine, Astronomy and Engineering.

Physics

International Baccalaureate

At least 8 B grades at GCSE.

“I really enjoyed my 2 years at Cowley, especially Phys-ics. I was fortunate that my teachers were ex-tremely helpful. I certainly don’t regret any of my choices and I hope potential new comers to Cowley will enjoy themselves as much as I did.”

Grace NwoguPhysics (C)Bradford University, Medicine

Subject Entry Requirements

Why Cowley? We have a wide range of sporting opportunities including links with St Helens RLFC academy

PsychologySubject Entry Requirements

40

AS and A Level PsychologyPsychology is assessed by exams at the end of each unit.

Units covered include:Cognitive and Developmental PsychologyBiological and Social PsychologyBiological Rhythms and Sleep, Gender, Cog-nition and DevelopmentPsychopathology, Psychology in Action.

You will also advance your knowledge of research methodology.

ProgressionStudying Psychology can lead you directly into a career in the mental health profession, treating patients or researching mental illness. Other career opportunities include

policing, management, education, marriage

guidance counselling and family therapy.

Why should I study Psychology?Psychology is a popular and thriving depart-ment; the course is a fascinating and science-based insight into the human psyche.

What is Psychology?Psychology is the scientific study of the human mind and behaviour. You will inves-tigate how and why people behave the way they do and how this knowledge can be used to help improve people’s lives. You will learn the different methods used by psychol-ogists to study people.

AS & A Level

All students will require Maths, English and Sci-ence GCSE at grade C or above.

Students who perform well in this subject are hardworking and committed. Their hard work is mo-tivated by their desire to know more. They have good or excellent ability and an interest in maths or science and study independently for one hour after every lesson.

Subject Entry Requirements

41

BTEC

You should have at least 5 GCSEs in a range of subjects and be seriously con-sidering a career in one of the uniformed serv-ices. You should have evidence of competence in English Language. You should have a reasonable level of fitness and be prepared to im-prove it.

BTEC Uniformed Public ServicesTypical units studied include: employment issues, application procedures, signals and major incident control, understanding behaviour and the criminal justice system.

The course is entirely coursework based, and the evidence used may be practical (video clips for example) although you will be expected to use ICT to write reports.

You need a reasonable level of fitness which you should be prepared to improve.

ProgressionThis course is an excellent route into uni-formed public services; you have the choice of applying directly or progressing to Higher Education.

Why should I study Public Services?This course was in the top 1% for value added in the country. There are plenty of opportunities for extra-curricular activity and enrichment. The course is practical and enjoyable.

What is Public Services?Uniformed Public Services provides an insight into the world of the Public Services such as the armed forces, police or fire services. This course develops your team working and leadership skills, investigating and applying motivational theories. Besides the physical and leadership side of the services, you will also cover the legal and political implications of government policy.

Public Services

Religious StudiesAS and A LevelReligious Studies?The course covers:• The Philosophy of Religion• Psychology, Sociology and Theology of

Religious Experience• Ethical Issues

By taking Religious Studies you will learn skills that are highly valued by universities and employers: communication, critical thinking and re-search skills, amongst others.

ProgressionReligious Studies can be used to enter a number of university courses, including History, Philosophy, Sociology, Theology and Law. Career opportunities include social work, the law, the police, personnel, management, child care and most people-related careers.

Why should I study Religious Studies?Religious Studies is a small and passionate department with high success rates, the opportunity to study in-depth most topical and popular issues, whilst exploring your own beliefs, values and ideas.

What is Religious Studies?You will debate a variety of philosophical and ethical questions: Is there evidence that God exists? Why would God create a world with so much evil and suffering? Is killing ever acceptable.

You will analyse ‘claimed’ religious experience, including stigmata, near-death experiences and visions, weighing up the possibility of psychological or sociological causes over a real encounter with God. You will consider the morality of issues today, such as abortion, euthanasia, genetics and pornography.

Subject Entry Requirements

AS & A Level

You need to be able to debate and discuss issues, have an open mind, listen to others and evaluate ideas you may not agree with, enjoy reading, researching and retrieving information from a number of sources and have good at-tendance at all three units. You do not need to have a Reli-gious Studies GCSE or any religious belief or conviction.

42

BTEC ScienceThere are six units which aim to deepen your knowledge and improve your practical skills. These include the core modules Funda-mentals of Science and Scientific Practical Techniques. There are four specialist units, which are currently: • Physiology of Human Regulation and

Reproduction• Biochemical Techniques• Genetics and Genetic Engineering• Microbiological Techniques

ProgressionBTEC Science leads on to many university degrees in the sciences. It opens up a number of science-based careers, including laboratory work and modern day apprenticeships. The subject also combines well with social sci-ence courses, such as Health and Social Care.

Why should I study Science?BTEC National Award Science is part of the successful and dynamic Science Faculty; excellent results, knowledgeable staff and refurbished laboratories combine with a vocational approach to build on your abilities from GCSE.

What is Science?Science is a stimulating and enjoyable two-year BTEC National Award (equivalent to 1 A Level) made up of six Biology-based units. It is assessed through coursework and so is ideal for those students who are less keen on examinations.

ScienceSubject Entry Requirements

43

BTEC

Either a Grade C (or better) in GCSE Science or at least a Merit in BTEC Science.

You need to have a genuine interest in Science,particularly Biology, with the ability to work independently and meet deadlines.

Why Cowley? We offer a vast range of courses, allowing you to tailor a programme of study which is individual to you

Sociology

44

AS & A Level

You will need tobe committed, with a good record of attendance and a willingness to participate in class debates. You will need to be able to write effec-tively, have good organisational skills and show an interest in social and politi-cal issues.

Students should have a minimum of 5 GCSEs at Grade C or above. A Grade B in English is desirable.

AS and A Level SociologyThere are four main topic areas:• Culture and Identity; Families and

Households• Education, Health, Sociological

Methods• Beliefs in Society, Global

Development, Mass Media and Politics

• Crime and Deviance, Stratification and Differentiation

There are two modular examinations each for AS and A2

ProgressionStudents of Sociology go on to a hugely diverse range of careers, from jobs in the media, research and journalism, to teach-ing and lecturing, police or social work and health care.

Why should I study Sociology?Sociology is a popular subject, exploring the most important and relevant issues of the day. It is a subject which goes well with other arts-based, sci-entific or social science courses, and it is an immensely challenging and exciting discipline.

What is Sociology?Sociology is the study of society and human behaviour. You will increase your under-standing of the society in which we live, whilst questioning things in an informed way and looking at the world in a different way. Sociology analyses the various patterns in society, including the Media, gender and race, fam-ily, crime and deviance, religion and politics.

Subject Entry Requirements

45

Subject Entry Requirements

BTEC

You will need a minimum of four C grades or higher in a range of GCSEs, including English.

Candidates should have the ability to work to deadlines and must be capable of working independently. The course has a strong empha-sis on course-work. Students should therefore be comfortable

using Microsoft Word and the internet for extra

research.

Travel and TourismBTEC Travel and TourismThe course is offered at Award level, equiva-lent to one A Level. There are six units to be covered, with the core made up of Inves-tigating Travel and Tourism, The Business of Travel and Tourism, The UK as a Desti-nation and Customer Service. There are a number of optional units.

The course is entirely coursework based, so you need to be comfortable workingindependently, using Microsoft Word and the internet for presentations and research.

ProgressionMany students who study Travel and Tour-ism go on to complete a degree in such areas as international tourism management, marketing or hospitality. There are many opportunities for students to go straight into employment, both locally and nationally.

Why should I study Travel and Tourism?An excellent department with a strong tradi-tion of taking students on visits to experi-ence the travel industry in both the UK and abroad.

What is Travel and Tourism?Travel and Tourism is a flexible and thorough course, in which you will undertake an indepth study of the travel industry. There is a strong vocational empha-sis, with the course focusing on careers in the travel industry.

Why Cowley? We have easy links to the town centre

Subject Entry Requirements

Textiles

46

AS & A Level

Students should have at least 5 GCSEs at grade C or above and be competent in numeracy and communication.

GCSE Design Technology students should have achieved at least a grade C at GCSE.

Students must be sufficiently commit-ted and motivated to carry out independent study, research and practical work.

Why should I study Textiles?Textiles is an exciting course which will al-low you to develop creativity and individual-ity. Well-equipped rooms and teachers with a flair for the subject make this a successful department. Students have put on their own fashion show.

What is Textiles?Textiles is a creative and practical course, promoting Designing and

Making in the context of 21st century applications, using

traditional and modern technology.

AS and A LevelTextilesDoes historical and contemporary fashion interest you? Do you know your Galliano from your Westwood? Do you know the difference between Angellina and Crystallina? Would you like to find out? Tex-tiles involves you in the design and creation of your own choice of textile products.

There are two exams, one each at AS and A2, with coursework providing the other as-sessment units.

ProgressionA Level Textiles is good preparation for De-gree or HND courses. Careers include textile designer, interior designer, fashion merchan-diser, fashion buyer and advertising.

Why Cowley? We have in place an excellent support structure with experienced and dedicated staff allowing students to achieve their personal goals

47

How do I apply?There are two relatively straight for-ward ways to apply to join Cowley College:

1. Use the Apply Online and i-choose websites Students from all Merseyside schools will have a username and password and will be able to apply for a place at Cowley College directly from their Apply Online or i-choose websites.

2. By Completing an Ap-plication Form. Included with this prospectus is a paper version of the Cowley College’s application form.

Simply fill it in and send it to:

Mr Matthew HeskethCowley College, Hard Lane, St Helens, WA10 6LB.

For students from St Helens schools go to https://secure.apply-sthelens.com/CAP/home.aspx

For students from Knowsley schools go to https://www.i-chooseknowsley.org.uk/CAP/Home.aspx

For students from Halton schools go tohttps://www.i-choosehalton.org.uk/CAP/Home.aspx

For students from Liverpool schools go tohttps://www.i-chooseliverpool.org.uk/CAP/Home.aspx

Sixth Form Bus ServicesAs more and more of our students are coming from further and further afield to get to Cowley, we have decided to charter 3 bus services for our students. The 3 bus routes for our sixth form students are as follows:

Route 1: Kirkby - Cowley

Route 2: Haydock - Cowley

Route 3: Widnes - Cowley

All 3 routes are subject to demand and subject to change. It is important to contact the college as early as possible to reserve yourself a place on one of these bus routes. Otherwise you may find that all places have already been taken. The buses will only be available to Year 12 and Year 13 students and will be competitively priced (prices for 2009 were only £1 per day or £185 for the year).

Ask either Jill Spencer or Matthew Hesketh for the latest information and prices of our bus routes.

PLEASE NOTE: all information provided in this booklet is correct as of November 2009, but will naturally be subject to change at a later date.

Hard Lane, St Helens, Merseyside, WA10 6LB

Phone: 01744 678030 - Fax: 01744 678031 - E-mail: cowley@sthelens.org.uk

www.cowley.st-helens.sch.uk/sixthform

St Helens Town Centre

Cowley College