new college pontefract 2014/15 prospectus

$: NEW College Pontefract 2014/15 prospectus$
Park Lane, PontefractWest Yorkshire, WF8 4QR

Tel: 01977 702139 Fax: 01977 600708 Email: [email protected]

Web: www.ncpontefract.ac.uk

DIRECTIONSTO NEW COLLEGE

IT IS IMPORTANT YOU VISITUS TO FIND OUT MORE...

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Retail Park

Halfords

Pontefract Park and Raceourse

Hull, The North (A1M)

Leeds, Manchester

Pontefract towncentre

NEW College

PROSPECTUS2014/2015 DELIVERING EXCELLENCE IN SIXTH FORM

LEARNING

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ENEWCOLLEGEPROSPECTUS2014/15

Welcome to our Prospectus 2014. In applying for a place at NEW College, you are applying for a place at a top performing college, both locally and nationally. Our Ofsted Outstanding, and our exceptionally strong exam results mean that you will experience first-class learning opportunities, outstanding teaching, and access to the very best advice and guidance when it comes to progressing beyond college. This prospectus is designed to help you make important choices in what will be the next crucial step in your education. We are sure that, as you find out more about the college, you will appreciate just how much we have to offer and how we can help you to achieve your goals in life.

SAFEGUARDINGOUR STUDENTSNEW College recognises its role in terms of Child Protection and has allocated a senior member of staff with full responsibility for this. Richard Fletcher, Vice Principal, ensures that all staff, governors and volunteers working in the College are fully aware of the policy.

Because we are specialists in post-16 qualifications, we are able to offer an extensive choice of academic subjects and a diverse range of wider College activities, including performing arts, music, sport, foreign exchange and challenging global expeditions. Many of our students, past and present, speak of their affection for NEW College as a very special place in which students are happy and supported, yet equally challenged to achieve their very best.

NEW College provides a distinctive and very special student experience. Our number one priority is teaching and learning, and so we expect it to be yours, too. Despite having around 2000 students, we pride ourselves on valuing you as individuals and responding to your needs. Because NEW College is larger than school sixth forms, the range of subjects that you can study and variety of activities we can offer is wider. As a student at NEW College you will be treated as a young adult and supported in every step in your learning journey.

Talking to past and present students is a very good way for you to find out what life at NEW College is about and will certainly help explain why we are so popular. One important reason for our popularity and reputation is our examination results. We are consistently the top performing A-Level institution across the Wakefield district. Additionally, we are proud of the progress our students make at A-Level compared with their GCSE results. These results allow our students to move onto the next stage of their careers, both well qualified and confident.

Vice Principals:Richard Fletcher and Leon Riley

Thank you for your interest in NEW College. If you choose to join us you will be part of a dynamic community with a strong focus on achievement and progression. Your success in exams will be of paramount importance to us and equally, we want you to grow personally and socially whilst at College and participate fully in the exciting opportunities available to you outside your lessons. In short, we will strive for excellence together.

The College has an established reputation for very strong exam performance. We are passionate about sustaining and improving teaching and learning so that every student’s results represent his/her best possible achievement. A key aspect of the NEW College experience is the young adult environment in which you will learn. We will respect you as an individual and encourage you to work in partnership with staff to achieve your goals. We will help you to take increasing responsibility for your learning and to achieve self-confidence, skills and knowledge which will help you to progress in life, work and future study.

NEW College Sixth Form Prospectus02

www.ncpontefract.ac.uk Tel: 01977 702139 03

Great reasons to choose NEW College

‘Outstanding’ Ofsted

About the College

Choosing your course

How we support you

Gifted and Able

How do I apply?

A-Level Courses

BTEC Courses

Level 2 Entry Requirements

FAQs and Equality & Diversity

Enrichment Opportunities

Results Day

The NEW College App

WHAT’S INSIDE...

NEW College achieved record breaking A-Level examination results in 2014 with a pass rate of 99.4%. This includes A* to B (high grades) of 51% and A* to C grades of 78%.

ALL STUDENTS & THEIRPARENTS ARE WELCOMETO ATTEND OUROPEN EVENTSSaturday – 4th Oct 2014 – 10am – 2pmTuesday - 11th Nov 2014 – 5pm – 8pmThursday - 5th Feb 2015 – 5pm – 7pmThere will be opportunities to:

Tour the College and visit subject areasTalk to staff and studentsListen to a presentation by the Principal

For any admission enquiries please contact: Student Services on 01977 702139 or email: [email protected] or alternatively Vice Principal - Richard Fletcher: [email protected]

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Outstanding examinations results.

An adult atmosphere in which everyone is valued and respected as an individual.

A specialist and dedicated team of Progress Tutors who provide friendly and professional guidance throughout your time in College.

A wide-range of A-Level, BTEC and GCSE courses so you can choose the combination of subjects that are right for you.

Highly qualified and enthusiastic teachers with expertise and specialist subject knowledge.

Expert Careers advisors providing individual guidance, whether you want to go to university or into the ‘world of work’.

An extensive enrichment programme, including the highly regarded Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, World Expedition, Community & Higher Sports Leaders Award, College radio, performing arts, competitive and recreational sport and much more.

Three floors of study space with IT facilities, textbooks, journals and multimedia resources. Facilities to suit varied learning styles, from independent study booths to bookable group rooms. A multitude of services all under one roof to support students, including the Careers Team, Study Support and Pastoral Care Services.

A commitment to ensuring that the transition between your high school and starting at NEW College is as smooth as possible.

A timetable very different from school, designed to incorporate study periods and social time.


Principal Pauline Hagen said:“I am very proud of our students, our staff and Governors and of course our parents and partners who have been very much a part of our journey to Outstanding. Every member of the NEW College team has worked extremely hard over the last three years and Ofsted have recognised the culture of hard work and success which is a defining feature of our College.”

The Chair of Governors, John Gough echoed this and affirmed the College’s commitment to “sustaining and further strengthening our exceptional performance”.

NEW College was inspected in April 2014 and the report has now been published.

The 13-strong team of Her Majesty’s Inspectors spent a week in the College carrying out a full inspection.

They judged the College to be Grade 1, Outstanding, in every area. The full report can be found on the Ofsted website www.ofsted.gov.uk/inspection-reports/find-in-spection-report/provider/ELS/130550 but the summary grades are as follows:

NEW College Pontefract celebrates OFSTED OUTSTANDING

NEW College is the first sixth form College locally and nationally to be judged outstanding in every area inspected. The latest inspection framework is extremely robust and the bar to outstanding is particularly high.

The inspectors noted the College’s many strengths and these include:

> Substantially above the recent average for sixth-form colleges.

> Attendance and time-keeping are excellent.

> Students work hard, show mature attitudes to study and achieve very high standards.

> The high success rates and attainment of the students at NEW College not only reflect the hard work that teachers and students put in, but also considerably add to the social cohesion and economic prosperity of this area of West Yorkshire.

> 90% of those who completed their studies progressed to higher education, further training or employment. A large number go on to prestigious universities.

> All staff are fully committed to ensuring that the standard of provision remains at the highest level across all areas of the College.

> The Principal and senior managers, with the full support of staff, have created a positive and supportive learning culture with a strong focus on motivating and inspiring students to succeed.

> Teachers in all subject areas use a wide range of interesting learning activities supported by high-quality resources that engage, motivate and challenge students. Teachers plan learning carefully to ensure that activities meet the individual needs of students.

> Progress Tutors provide very effective support to all students including those aspiring to achieve the highest grades and those at risk of falling behind.

> Students participate fully in a wide range of activities that enrich their learning and enhance their confidence and skills, including sporting activities.

> Staff provide comprehensive advice and guidance that enables students to choose study pathways that meet their needs and aspirations.

> The Principal, senior managers and governors have developed, and

successfully communicated, a comprehensive and ambitious strategic vision and direction for the College. Strategic management and planning are highly effective and have resulted in very successful outcomes for students.

> Highly responsive partnership work with schools, the local authority and higher- education institutions has a very positive impact on people of all age groups in the local community. Managers work innovatively with partners to share best practice to improve the quality of teaching and learning across organisations.

Outcomes for learners

OUTSTANDING

Quality of teaching, learning and assessment

OUTSTANDING

Effectiveness of leadership

and management

OUTSTANDING

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NEW College is a thriving, dynamic, friendly and successful community and there has never been a better time to join it.

With around 2000 sixth form students, we are large enough to offer a wide choice of subjects, yet we are still able to enjoy a friendly sense of community.

The quality of our staff and the warm relationships that exist throughout the College make it an exciting and enjoyable place in which to learn.

Students join NEW College from across the Wakefield district and beyond (from over 30 schools). This diversity generates an open and inclusive atmosphere.

We believe that NEW College provides a “staging post” between school and university or a career, enabling students to move forward with more skills and qualifications working in an independent, self-directing way.

Moreover, irrespective of their grades, we know that our students leave with the confidence and personal and social maturity that gives them a firm foundation in their adult lives.

Once again our students celebrated excellent results in thesummer, which will enable them to progress to university or the world of work.

ABOUT THE COLLEGE

Our MissionTo provide dynamic, high quality learning experiences in a supportive, inclusive environment, enabling academic success and personal growth.

Our VisionWe aim to be an inclusive provider of education in which students and staff work together to achieve potential and transform lives.

Our College ValuesWe expect all members of our College community to share and enact the College’s values, which are:

> Work Motivation> Organisation> Commitment> Self-Discipline> Consideration and Respect> Self-Responsibility> Achievement Focus> Positive Interaction and Engagement


CHOOSING YOUR COURSEFor full course descriptions please visit our website:www.ncpontefract.ac.uk

Subject Entry Requirements 2015/16The minimum entry requirement for 2015/16 is that all students studying level 3 must have achieved at least a grade C in English Language. In addition students will have to meet the subject specific entry requirements which may consist of a GCSE grade and a minimum average GCSE score.

Please note: There will be exceptions to subject specific entry requirements. At enrolment the interviewer will use their professional judgement when deciding if a student can enrol onto a course without meeting the minimum average GCSE points score requirements.

A-Level Subject Specific Entry Requirements for 2015/16

Minimum average GCSE points score for 2015/16

Accounting B in Maths 5

Art & Design C in a creative subject or a merit in BTEC (if studied)

n/a

Biology B in Biology or additional Science plus a B in Maths

5.8 (or an A in Maths)

Business C in Maths 5

Chemistry B in Chemistry or additional Science plus a B in Maths


Computer Science B in Maths 5.8

Dance C in a Performing Arts subject or a merit in BTEC (if studied) or audition

n/a

Drama C in a Performing Arts subject or a merit in BTEC (if studied) or audition

n/a

Economics B in Maths 5.5

English Lang/Lit C in English Language 4.8

English Literature B in English Language 4.8

Film B in English Language 5

French B in French and a B in English Language

5.6 (or an A in French)

Geography C in Maths 5.5 ( or C in Geography)

Geology B in Science (core or additional or separate science)

5

Government & Politics C in English Language 5

Graphic Design C in a creative subject (if studied) n/a

Health and Social Care C in English Language or a merit in BTEC Health and Social Care

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History C in History (if studied) 5

Law C in English Language 4.8

Maths B in Maths 5.4 (or an A in Maths)

Further Maths A* in Maths 5.8

Media C in English Language 4.5

Music C in Music or a merit in BTEC (if studied) - Grade 5 standard in practical and theory

n/a

Music Technology C in Music or a merit at BTEC (if studied)

n/a

Photography C in a creative subject or a merit at BTEC (if studied)

n/a

Physical Education C in PE or Science or a merit in BTEC Sport

5

Physics B in Physics or additional Science and a B in Maths


Psychology B in either Maths or Science 5

Religious Studies C in English Language 4.8

Sociology C in English Language 5

Spanish B in Spanish and B in English Language

5.6 (or an A in Spanish)

Textiles and Fashion Design

C in a creative subject or a merit at BTEC (if studied)

n/a

Vocational Pathway – BTEC (Level 3)> All BTEC qualifications require students to

have achieved: a grade C in English GCSE.

> At least a Merit if studied the subject at Level 2.

> A minimum of 4 GCSE grade Cs or equivalent.

ExceptionsIf a student has achieved a D in English and wishes to study an Extended Diploma, they will need to have achieved a level 2 Distinction in the subject they want to study at level 3.

For more detailed information on our BTEC courses please refer to p32

How to work out your Average GCSE points score (using GCSEs only)

GCSE Grade Points score

A* 8

A 7

B 6

C 5

D 4

E 3

F 2

G 1

U 0

Then add up your total points and divide by the number of GCSEs you have taken. This calculation excludes BTECs.


HOW WESUPPORTYOUProgress Tutors

Your Progress Tutor will support you in the early weeks of settling into College life, and will help you adjust to the new challenges in managing work, prioritising tasks and developing study skills.

Later on, your Progress Tutor will provide guidance and support as you plan for progression from College to the next stage, whether this is university, an internship, gap year or employment. Your relationship with your Progress Tutor will be key to ensuring you get the very best out of College life and engage with it fully.

Your Progress Tutor will deliver an induction tutorial programme which will cover many aspects of College life in order to support you as you settle into College. You will get an opportunity to meet your Progress Tutor before you start NEW College by joining us for our Induction Day that takes place in the summer term.

Tutorial sessions held once a week will be a mixture of one-to-one interviews and important relevant topics, such as social and career related issues. In offering you this we hope that we can continue to help you grow as a person and prepare you for life after College, whether that be work, training or university.

Work Experience

NEW College encourages all Year 12 students to participate in the Work Experience Programme. For some students it will be essential to complete work experience to meet entry requirements, as set by Higher Education providers. For others it may be an integral part of the course. Here at NEW College you will be given support before, during and after your placement to ensure you have a successful experience in a safe, relevant and friendly environment.


Monthly Assessment

> Both your Progress Tutor and Subject Teachers will review your progress on a monthly basis and together you will agree targets to ensure motivation, direction and a clear plan of action to keep you on track and improving.> Monthly progress monitoring will focus on your achievement and your attendance in each of your subjects.> All this information will be recorded and will be accessible to both parents and students daily and securely via the Internet.

Higher Education & the World of Work

The Careers Team at NEW College encourage students to research their options and support them along the way in realising their potential and ambitions.

A large number of NEW College students progress to Higher Education each year. Progress Tutors and our Careers Advisers are able to guide you through this process. We also work hard to support our students who may be seeking employment or apprenticeships after studying at College.At our Higher Education Information Evening for parents, we discuss the application process and the financial implications of studying at university. To support students who may be considering applying to either Oxford or Cambridge University, we have a specially designed programme encouraging students and supporting them through the application process. We have excellent links and partnerships withuniversities.

In the summer we hold an annual Progression Day with over 60 speakers from local universities and employers.We support our students seeking employment with application form preparation, CV writing and interview practice. We advertise suitable vacancies and apprenticeships.Students are able to seek careers advice five days a week from our experienced and professionally qualified Careers

The College Counselling Team also offers guidance on relaxation techniques. Counselling is a skilled way of helping you to focus on your concerns and developmental issues, while at the same time exploring specific problems, making choices, coping with crises, working through feelings of conflict and improving relationships with others. The Counselling Service is available from Monday- Friday, 9 - 4pm, situated in the Health Point. We also have our very own team of Students Offering Support (SOS), a group of friendly students who are trained in listening skills. They are available if you would like an informal chat, collect information or need practical help with College or other problems.

College Internships

At NEW College we offer a variety of select internships to our students. Internships are similar to work experience placements but are actually based within the College. These are likely to take place within department areas and are at set times on a weekly basis e.g. one morning or afternoon per week.

Examples of some of the Internships we offer include:working in the Learning Resource Centre, Administration, IT, Media, Performing Arts, Sport and much more.Our prestigious Internships are seen to provide potential employees with valuable and appropriate experience. More information regarding NEW College internships will be available to you once you start in September.

Employability Skills

At NEW College we take your next steps very seriously. We are ultimately responsible for ensuring after your two years with us you not only have the necessary qualifications to progress but also the invaluable employability skills in order for you to step in to the world of work pre or post university.

As part of your tutorial programme, which is delivered by your Progress Tutor, you will build up numerous employability skills to prepare you for future employment. At NEW College, we constantly work with employers so that we can ensure you have developed the skills they are looking for.

Having the right employability skills can be the difference between you being successful in the world of work or not!

Financial Support - 16-19 Bursary Fund

The Bursary Fund is for students aged 16-19 and is a payment of money provided to support students in their learning. The allowance is means-tested and students may be eligible if total household assessed income is £20,000 or below.If you think you are eligible to receive financial support through the 16-19 Bursary Fund, application forms are available from Student Services or can be downloaded from the College website, www.ncpontefract.ac.uk

Student attendance will be checked weekly, with payment being made half termly in arrears. Payment will only be made for the weeks where your attendance and work performance has been satisfactory.

If you have any questions regarding the 16-19 Bursary Fund please email [email protected]

Study Support

The Study Support Team aims to help students maximise their educational achievements during their time at NEW College. These welcoming and professional tutors will give youindividual help with any aspect of your studies. The service is open to all students, whatever your target grade.

Students often seek help with study skills, writing skills and GCSE Maths and English. Support is provided in small groups, ‘one to one’ or in-class, according to the needs and wishes of the student. We actively promote a policy of inclusion, so specialist support is available for students with healthproblems or disabilities, such as cerebral palsy, autism and dyslexia. Our provision often includes access arrangements for examinations, such as extra time and the use of computers. It is very important that you disclose any disabilities or difficulties on your College application so we can plan in advance to meet your needs.

Counselling

We offer a confidential counselling service that offers you the space and time to think and talk about specific problems andto discuss together about difficulties you are having.


DIRECTED STUDY TIME

The Learning Resource Centre (LRC)This is an all-in-one centre combining the function of a library (book lending, audio- visual material, newspapers, etc) and a Learning Resource Centre(lots of different types of electronic material).

The LRC is also the home of our Study Support Team. If you need additional support with your studies, the LRC is the place to be.

College life differs in some important ways from school life, which may be partly why you are interested in joining us.To start with, there are no uniforms and no bells, and you are encouraged to call staff by their first names.

Another key difference is the time you will have when you are not in class. This is known as your ‘directed time’ as there is an expectation that you will manage a balance between meeting friends and studying in one of our Learning Zones.

The Open Access Learning Zone (A8)There are several computer rooms available for students to use for extra study; however, the Open Access Learning Zone in A Block is the biggest, housing 65 computers in one room. You can drop in at any time and computers will be available for you to use.

The Open access Apple Mac Computer SuiteThis open access computer room is available to all Photography, Media, Art, Design, Film Studies and Textiles students on a drop-in- basis.

Teacher Access PeriodsAll subjects will publish a timetable where teachers will be available to provide additional support or catch-up sessions. These can either be one-to-one sessions or larger group sessions.


GIFTEDAND ABLE

Are you a prospective student likely to achieve only As and A*s at GCSE? Then this guide on our Excellence Academy is for you.

NEW College is committed to supporting every student in achieving their potential.

Are you expecting outstanding GCSE results? Is your average GCSE points score likely to be 6.8 or above?

Do you intend to apply for a course at a competitive university?If you answered ‘yes’ to one of these questions, you will be interested to know that NEW College can support your ambitions and help you achieve your potential. Our commitment is to every individual learner and, of course, this includes our high-achieving students too. Our high ability students do extremely well in terms of exam success, achievements in College, and university progression.

What can the Excellence Academy do for you?Before you start, your application form and GCSE achievement at enrolment will immediately identify you as academically able. Your subject teachers will then make sure that you are appropriately challenged with learning tasks and resources. You’ll be encouraged to use our virtual learning environment to access in-depth material. Your learning journey will be carefully managed to ensure you achieve your academic potential.

Forward PlanningWhen it comes to university applications, you will be invited to join in a range of activities run by specialist staff to help you make progression choices appropriate to your ability and aspirations. If you decide to apply to a prestigious university such as Oxford or Cambridge, you will have access to an individual guidance programme to prepare you for the more demanding interview and selection process. Similarly, if you wish to apply for a higher competitive course such as Medicine or Veterinary Science, you will be given specific, individual advice, guidance and information. You’ll be invited on lots of university visits, including our Oxford and Cambridge Residential Programme. As well as helping you with preparation, you’ll be encouraged to participate in activities to help you fulfil your academic potential such as our Debating Society, Reading Group and trips and visits to student conferences, universities and cultural events.

The Excellence Academy programme for Gifted and Able students will include:

> Motivational speaker programme > Discussions on current affairs > University visits > Support for UCAS application and personal statement writing > Workshops on how to be a high achieving student > Interview preparation and training > Work experience > Extended Project Qualification

Excellence ProgrammeSince NEW College opened we have built up a programme of advice and support for prospective Oxbridge candidates.

This involves:> Oxbridge meetings> A two day visit at the end of June to the Oxford and

Cambridge Open Days, including overnight stay in one of the Colleges> A suggested summer vacation programme of study> Help with decisions in September> Help with application forms> Meeting ex-NEW College students currently at Oxford or

Cambridge> Early reference writing> Preparation for the all-important interview, specialist

teacher support, and the latest advice from Colleges on what to expect

What chance do I have?You need to be under no illusions about the competition for places. The Admissions Tutors in the Colleges are faced with similar, very able students. So what else can you offer?> Hard work; you meet deadlines> You are perceptive> Enthusiasm for and evidence of interest in your chosen subject beyond the confines of the A-Level syllabus> Where appropriate, relevant work experience> Good interview technique. Oxbridge interviews are really oral

examinations. You will receive help with interview techniques.

ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIPAre you expecting outstanding GCSE results?If you are predicted to achieve more than 8 A grades in your GCSEs, we will offer you the opportunity to receive up to £500 to support your post-16 education.

In addition to this financial support, being part of the Excellence Academy will support your progression ambitions and help you achieve your potential. The Excellence Academy’s bespoke programme will help you to develop a repertoire of skills required to become the next doctor, lawyer, scientist, accountant or world leader.


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HOW DOI APPLY?If you are interested in applying to NEW College for entry in September 2015 simply follow the nine steps to enrolment guidelines below.Finally, if you have any questions or queries about anything relating to applying to NEW College, please contact Richard Fletcher (Vice Principal) or Student Services on 01977 702139.

Visit NEW College for the day in Year 10 and experience a College Taster Day.(Not all schools)

Attend a presentation assembly by NEW College at your school. Obtain a copy of our prospectus. (Not all schools)

Read the prospectus/website and start to consider the courses you are interested in. (Remember some subjects are assessed by exams and some are assessed by coursework.)

Attend one of our three Open Events which are strongly recommended. Students and parents are very welcome. There will be opportunities to listen to a short presentation by the Principal and speak to subject staff and students.

Open Events are:Saturday - 4th Oct 2014 – 10am – 2pmTuesday - 11th Nov 2014 – 5pm – 8pmThursday - 5th Feb 2015 – 5pm – 7pm

Fill in the on-line application form using ‘UCAS Progress’ (await confirmation/receipt of your application). If you are unable to access this, then please use a paper application form.

In the months of January through to April, you will receive a letter through the post inviting you to attend an interview. If all goes well you will be offered a conditional place at the College dependent on your GCSE results.

You will then receive a letter through the post inviting you to attend an Induction Day after your final GCSE exams in July. Here, you will spend some time in the subjects you have chosen to study. The focus of this day is to prepare you for your future time at the College.

GCSE Results Day August 2015. If you do not get the GCSEs you require, please come into College after collecting your results to discuss your options with our staff.

In order for you to complete the final stage of applying to NEW College, you will need to attend our Enrolment Day. It is important that you bring proof of your qualifications in order to enrol at the College.

Contact the School Liaison Team with any queries: Neil Mumby or Richard Fletcher Tel: 01977 702139


APPLICATION FORMIf your school has access to on-line applications such as ‘UCAS Progress’ please seek advice from your Head of Year on how to complete it.

Alternatively, you can download an application form from our College website or contact Student Services.

FIRST INTERVIEW> Interviews will take place between January 2015 and April 2015. If you are applying from a local school, interviews will take place at your school.

> If applying from a school with a sixth form or from out of the area then you will be invited for an evening interview at College.

> If you wish your parents/guardians to accompany you at the interview, they will be very welcome.

> At the interview we will discuss your proposed course choices and find out more about your career aspirations.

> The interview is a key part of the application process and provides the opportunity to discuss your predicted qualifications and course choices ensuring that they are right for you.


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The Accounting course puts most emphasis on trying to give an insight into the world of finance and developing the technical skills that underpin accounting activity. You will be engaged in a range of problem-solving activities that help you learn the distinct language and techniques of accountancy. You will deal with number based problems to identify accounting problems and suggest solutions. Accounting A-Level will prepare you well for this line of work.

A-LEVELCOURSES2015/16At NEW College we offer a wide range of Advanced Level courses. The advantage of following an A-Level programme is that they are still regarded as the most academic qualification so are therefore highly regarded by the most prestigious universities. A-Levels are assessed by end of year exams.

Topics you will cover:As an Accounting student you will be able to apply your understanding to explaining real world practical problems. You will learn how and why businesses keep financial records and will become skilled in the preparation of business documents, such as profit & loss accounts, cash flow and balance sheets, from raw data. Your studies will be related to both small and large businesses. As you develop into the second year you will learn how to interpret financial information and to make judgments about business performance.

New College Sixth Form Prospectus14

Subject Specific Requirements:Grade B in GCSE Maths and a minimum average GCSE Points Score of 5

Accounting is for you if: You like solving problems, are hard-working, and interested in “maths for business”.

Accounting is not for you if: You just like doing sums, don’t like exams, or want an easy subject.

Accounting A-Level is very enjoyable, fun and also challenging. It gives you vital knowledge for the business world. I would recommend accounting to everybody.

Cavan McGoldrick, Carleton Community High School


ARTThe Visual Arts department at NEW College offers students the opportunity to be creative and develop their independent working skills in an exciting and supportive environment.

Art is an exciting and inspiring subject that will develop your skills in a broad range of media such as drawing, painting, printing and 3D, as well as developing your creative thinking and allowing you the opportunity to work independently.

Your work will be developed through viewing and investigating the work of other artists. As the course progresses, you will be able to select your own area of interest and develop your work in areas that suit you. Emphasis is placed on sketchbooks which will record your ideas, creativity and independent work.

Art is based around being creative and exciting with your work, trying new media and techniques, challenging yourself to come up with original ideas, and working independently to produce interesting and personal art work.

Topics you will cover:The course begins with a skills building unit which will develop skills you already have as well as expose you to new media and ideas you may not have used before.

You will look at a wide range of other artists’ work, both traditional and contemporary, and use these to inspire and inform your own work. You will then be able to select your own direction to work in, choosing ideas and media that suit you.

There is an externally set assignment in both Year 12 and 13 where you will be given a starting point to explore and develop in your own way. This will conclude with you producing a final piece of work in a timed exam and exhibiting your work at the end of the Year 13.

Art is for you if: You are a creative person who has an interest in art and design and developing your own style and way of working.

Art is not for you if: You don’t like trying new things and struggle with coursework subjects.


BIOLOGYStudying Biology at A-Level will increase your knowledge of the living world and the practical techniques currently used in different fields of Biology.

An A-Level qualification in Biology will allow you to progress to a wide variety of careers or biological, medical and health related subjects at degree level.Topics you will cover:Cells, biological molecules, breathing, digestion, transport systems in animals and plants, ecosystems and biodiversity, health and diseases, DNA, genetics and gene technology, biodiversity and classification, nerves, hormones and the brain and respiration, and photosynthesis.

Biology is for you if: You are good at science, have an interest in living things and you are good at learning facts, solving problems and enjoy practical work.

Biology is not for you if: You dislike learning a large amount of content and struggle with solving problems and calculations in exams.

Subject Specific Requirements:C in a creative subject or a merit in BTEC (if studied)

Subject Specific Requirements:B in Biology or Additional Science plus a B in Maths with a minimum average GCSE Points Score of 5.8 (or an A in Maths)

A challenging but exciting year, with the teachers there at any point to help with anything. A really great course to choose.

Olivia Slater, Ackworth School

The department staff are all keen to help and offer any support needed. The subject allows you to explore and challenge your own creativity and individuality and gives you freedom for your own ideas.

Beth Lee, Carleton High School


CHEM

ISTR

YChemistry is a rewarding, enjoyable and challenging subject that is highly regarded by both universities and employers. Much of the work in the first year develops ideas already encountered at GCSE. Practical work is used to engage student’s learning in a fun and thought-provoking environment. Topics you will cover:Atoms, electrons, reactions, bonding and structure, groups, periodic trends, the Periodic Table, hydrocarbons and basic concepts, alcohols, halogenoalkanes, analysis, energy and resources, arenes, acids and amines, polymers, synthesis, equilibria, rates, pH and energetics and transition elements.

Chemistry is for you if: You enjoy science and are interested in the reactions taking place all around us in this amazing world we live in.

Chemistry is not for you if: You do not like exams, practical work, or if you are not looking for a challenge.

Subject Specific Requirements:B in Chemistry or additional Science plus a B in Maths with a minimum average GCSE Points Score of 5.8 (or an A in Maths)

I have loved Chemistry these last two years. We have covered a wide range of topics which has kept the course interesting and everything we have been taught has real world applications.

Adam Howard, Hemsworth Arts and Community Academy

BUSINESS STUDIESHave you ever thought why some businesses succeed and others go ‘bust’? Business Studies enables students to focus on the dynamic and exciting nature of the business world, answering questions such as where do businesses come from? What makes a successful business succeed? Students will explore real business scenarios and complete practical activities to find solutions to problems that all businesses are up against. Not everything in the business world has a right or wrong answer but there are implications to every decision businesses make. Students will develop analytical skills throughout the course that will be further developed where they will research and work with topical business issues. Topics you will cover:You will look at the issues and problems of managing small scale and large businesses and how they operate. The focus of study will start to look at the global business themes that you hear about in the news.

Subject Specific Requirements:C in Maths with a minimum average GCSE Points Score of 5

Business is the most rewarding subject I have taken. It teaches you skills that you will need in any business for future life.

Jessica Spears, The Kings School

Business is for you if: You are interested in the real world news outside of your classroom and want to understand the reasons why businesses are successful.

Business is not for you if: You want the teacher to give you all the answers or to simply learn from a textbook.


DANCEDance is a challenging yet extremely rewarding subject, designed to prepare students for the exciting industry of performing arts. During the course, students will be exposed to a variety of different dance styles, including contemporary, ballet, jazz, modern, musical theatre and street.

Topics you will cover:Performing arts organisations, production planning (skills development), identification and rehearsal of appropriate technical operations or pieces from existing repertoire, participation in the presentation of a performance to an audience, effective self-promotion, attitudes and survival skills and researching stylistic conventions.

Dance is for you if You’re energetic, creative and disciplined.

Dance is not for you if: You’re shy when performing or physically unfit.

COMPUTER SCIENCEComputer Science covers the technical aspects of computers, such as computer architecture, networking, databases and programming as well as the theory of computation and the moral, ethical, legal and cultural issues surrounding the subject. It is an intensely creative subject that enables students to develop skills in analysis, problem solving, invention and innovation and investigates the relationship between the natural and digital worlds.

Topics you will cover: > Fundamentals of programming, data structures, data

representation and algorithms > Theory of computation > Fundamentals of computer systems, organisation and

architecture > Consequences of uses of computing > Communication and networking > Databases > Functional programming

Computer Science is for you if: You enjoy problem solving, are a competent mathematician and have a keeninterest in Computing.

Computer Science is not for you if: You find it difficult to prepare for exams.

Subject Specific Requirements:B in Maths with a minimum average GCSE Points Score of 5.8

Subject Specific Requirements:C in a performing arts subject or a merit in BTEC if studied (or audition)

Brilliant subject! Really energetic and fun. I’ve developed so much as a dancer due to the brilliant teaching

Victoria Partridge, Airedale Academy

NEW TO

SEPT 2015


ECONOMICS

DRAMA

Drama is a dynamic and exciting course that prepares students for performance and beyond. The programme of study allows students to create, understand and perform drama in a challenging way.

During the course students will study many different dramatic genres including physical theatre, naturalism, devising and improvisation. This uniquely delivered programme is designed for those interested in continuing their study of performing arts in higher education and those who want a fresh and exhilarating challenge.

Topics you will cover:Exploration of drama and theatre, theatre text in performance, exploration of dramatic performance and theatre text in context.

Drama is for you if: You are creative, confident, independent and hard working.

Drama is not for you if: You dislike written work and performing in public.

Do you watch the news and find yourself hearing terms such as inflation, unemployment and economic growth and not really understand what they mean? Economics is the subject that explains these concepts and many more and will transform your understanding of the world around you. Why is petrol so expensive? Why are food prices increasing? Why do we pay taxes? Why does the economy keep going into crisis? These are all questions that people ask on a day-to-day basis and studying Economics will help you find the answers.

Topics you will cover:You will be given a workbook packed with exercises and tasks that we will complete in lessons through a variety of activities and lively discussions, covering current issues such as smoking ban, how to deal with environmental pollution, the recent UK recession and the economics of Europe. The workbook, when completed, then forms a great resource for revision. There is a wide range of resources available to help you on the course, all of which are available online so you can access them from home. These provide help at any time of the day, any day of the week.

Economics is for you if: You have an interest in what is happening in the economy and can understand data and graphs.

Economics is not for you if: You dislike formal exams with in public.

Subject Specific Requirements:C in a performing arts subject or a merit in BTEC if studied (or audition)

Subject Specific Requirements:B in Maths and a minimum average GCSE Points Score of 5.5

We get to be very creative. It’s an incredibly practical subject and performing in the shows is the highlight.

Charlie Lunn, Carleton Community High School

Economics has real life applications. In lessons we always look at new economic events which make it very interesting. I can now read the paper or watch the news and understand what’s going on in the world.

Maria Barbosa, NEW College Pontefract (GCSE)


ENGLISHThis course allows you to develop your interest and enjoyment in English Language and Literature, by enabling you to:

> Use both linguistic and literary approaches when reading and analysing a wide variety of written, spoken and multimodal texts;

> Explore the significance of contextual factors in the production and reception of texts;

> Undertake independent and sustained studies to develop your skills as a writer and interpreter of language through creating and evaluating your own coursework texts.

Use both linguistic and literary approaches when reading and analysing a wide variety of written, spoken and multimodal texts; explore the significance of contextual factors in the production and reception of texts; undertake independent and sustained studies to develop your skills as a writer and interpreter of language through creating and evaluating your own coursework texts.

Topics you will cover:Critical reading of literary and non-literary texts, analysing and producing, performance texts, poetry and prose, producing texts for performance, comparative analysis of texts.

English Language and Literature is for you if: You enjoy coursework and grammar and analysing the way language is used to achieve particular effects in literary texts.

English Language and Literature is not for you if:You do not like coursework, discussion, grammar and analysing the language of a range of literary texts.

LANGUAGE ANDLITERATURE COMBINED

ENGLISH LITERATUREEnglish Literature provides you with the opportunity to develop your interest and enjoyment in literary studies. You will explore challenging ideas, as expressed through poetry, prose and drama from different periods. You will be encouraged to develop your own responses to texts, considering other readers’ interpretations, with a deepening appreciation of the significance of cultural and historical influences upon readers and writers. The course is of interest to anyone keen to find out about the way literature challenges conventional thinking in the field of human relationships and ideas.

Topics you will cover:Poetry (post-1900) and drama (post-1990), prose study and creative reading, exploration of two novels, creative reading, a short creative piece within the genre of gothic literature, period and genre study, poetry (pre-1800) and drama.

English Literature is for you if: You enjoy analysing and discussing poetry, novels and plays and writing weekly essays appeals to you.

English Literature is not for you if: You don’t like coursework, reading or essay writing.

Subject Specific Requirements:C in English Language with a minimum average GCSE Points Score of 4.8

Subject Specific Requirements:B in English Language with a minimum average GCSE Points Score of 5

I enjoy this course because you can explore literature in a more mature environment. You are allowed to discuss and argue your own opinions and are not spoon-fed. As I really like exploring fiction, the creative aspect of the course appealed to me.

Thomas Glemberg, The Purston E-ACT Academy

The course has opened up my eyes to another world in literature. I’m now starting to analyse linguistic techniques in everyday life – it really takes over. The individuality of the coursework is what I enjoy most.

Ross Hilton-Inkpin, Ossett Academy


FILM STUDIESFilm Studies provides you with the opportunity to develop your analytical, evaluative and written skills, by exploring films that range from the culturally significant artefact to the populist box office smash. Critical autonomy will be developed, and students will have the opportunity to develop some creativity in their coursework unit.

Topics you will cover:Analysis of a film extract, creative research projects, world cinema, spectatorship topics and single film – close critical study

Film Studies is for you if: You enjoy analysing and writing weekly essays about cinematography, narrative and the creation of meaning in film.

Film Studies is not for you if: You don’t like tackling new concepts, writing essays or watching foreign or black and white films.

Our Year 12 course, as well as developing your ability to speak and write in a foreign language, will increase your knowledge and understanding of the world around you, informing you about contemporary issues in the countries where the language you are studying is spoken. You will build on your knowledge from GCSE, gaining in particular a deeper understanding of the grammatical structures of the language. You will work with other students and have lessons in the computerised language laboratory.

Subject Specific Requirements:B in English Language and a minimum average GCSE Points Score of 5

FREN

CHTopics you will cover:Year 12: Advertising, new technology, cinema, music, fashion, sport, holidays, health and well-being, family, friendships, marriage.Year 13: The environment, immigration, law and order, wealth and poverty, scientific and technological progress, cultural topics(including a film and a literary text)

French is for you if: You enjoy speaking French, are interested in how languages work and are willing to learn new material regularly.

French is not for you if: You are not willing to try to speak, don’t like independent learning or struggle to remember material accurately.

Film Studies allows the discussion of bigger topics, not just in terms of film but in terms of how things affect society. I’ve enjoyed it because everyone’s opinions are important. There are lots of right answers, so long as you can justify them with links to the texts.

Tom Wright, De Lacy Academy

Subject Specific Requirements:B in French and a B in English Language.minimum average GCSE Points Score of 5.6 (or an A in French)

You can actually see yourself improving. It’s great and very rewarding if you put the work in.

Carys John, Wakefield City Academy


Subject Specific Requirements:C in Maths - C in Geography (if studied) and a minimum average GCSE Points Score of 5.5

GEOGRAPHYTopics you will cover:Investigating the effects of a growing world population, changing health needs, spatial distribution of people, resources and diseases and the conflict that results from these differences, understanding how the earth’s system works, tectonics, weather, rivers and coasts.

Students will be required to undergo fieldwork as well as classroom based activities..Geography is for you if:You are inquisitive about the world around you and the environment in which we live; you enjoy practical work and have had enough of coursework (we don’t do it).

Geography is not for you if:You dislike exams, writing and are not prepared to work hard.

GEOLOGYWhy is the sea salty? Where did all the dinosaurs go?Why do volcanoes erupt? Where do all the sea sides come from?Why are some regions in the UK, hillier than others?

If you want to find out all the answers to questions like these, then Geology is the course for you!

Geology is the study of planet earth and brings together aspects of biology, chemistry, physical geography, maths and physics. It is a fast changing and dynamic science.

Topics you will cover:Igneous activity, sedimentary processes, metamorphism, fossils, rock deformation, climate change, earth structure, plate tectonics, earthquakes, tsunamis and volcanoes, mass movements, waste disposal, water storage and engineering geology.

Geology is for you if: You like to understand the way the earth moves under your feet and you can remember lots of information.

Geology is not for you if: You dislike science, are not very good at practical work and cannot remember simple definitions.

Subject Specific Requirements:C in English Language and a minimum average GCSE Points Score of 5

Geography is an excellent subject which teaches you about the world around us but also a wide range of transferable skills.

Vicky Jarvis, Castleford Academy

Geology is a fascinating course which involves a lot of problem solving as well as practical work. The majority of the lessons are based around group work, which makes for a fun atmosphere and enjoyable lessons.

Ellen Brailsford, The King’s School

Geography is concerned with ‘real world’ issues; changes which you are already part of or will face in the future. Studying Geography at A-Level equips you with the skills to think objectively about the future, develop your own world view and make connections between places and scales. You will leave the course a better thinker and decision-maker with a broader understanding of the forces affecting your own life and the lives of others.


GRAP

HIC

DESI

GNThe Visual Arts department at NEW College offers students the opportunity to be creative and develop their independent working skills in an exciting and supportive environment. .

This creative Graphic Design course aims to develop students’ ability to communicate visually, produce exciting and thought provoking work independently.

In the first year the course is structured to develop your skills you need and the second year gives you more freedom to develop your own strengths and interests. The course covers a broad range of traditional skills including drawing, painting and mixed media as well as professional digital techniques. The use of typography is integral to all projects, either hand rendered or computer generated. Amongst the areas explored as part of this course are: illustration, advertising & packaging, animation, visual communication and computer graphics. Students are encouraged to develop their designs from original drawings which can be applied to many purposes such as advertising, packaging, website design, album artwork, illustration projects, leaflets, posters, information graphics, book covers, corporate identities and logotypes.

Topics you will cover:The course begins with a skills building unit which will develop your technical ability as well as expose you to new ideas. Professional graphics packages are used throughout the course, with a focus on Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop.

You will look at a wide range of other artists work both traditional and contemporary and use these to inspire and inform your own work.

You will then be able to select your own direction to work in, picking ideas and media that interest you.

There is an externally set assignment in both year 12 and year 13 where you will be given a starting point to explore and develop in your own way. This will conclude with you producing a final piece of work in a timed exam and exhibiting your work at the end of year 13.

Graphic Design is for you if: You are a creative person who wants to develop original design work for commercial use, likes coursework subjects and is self-motivated.

Graphic Design is not for you if: You struggle with coursework subjects and working independently.

GOVERNMENT & POLITICSStudents will develop sophisticated analytical, evaluative and communication skills through studying important and interesting contemporary issues. Topics you will cover:Year 12 provides a good grounding in the nuts and bolts of the British government and its relationships with individuals in society. Key areas of study include:

democracy, political participation and elections, parties and pressure groups, parliament, PM and cabinet, judges and civil liberties and the constitution.

The contemporary Year 13 course deals with major issues facing our society including: economic policy, social welfare, health and education, law order and criminal justice and the European Union.

Subject Specific Requirements:C in English Language with a minimum average GCSE Points Score of 5

Government and Politics has sparked my interest in the world around me, inspiring me to continue with politics at university.

Lucy Dunwell, De Lacy Academy

Government & Politics is for you if: You have an interest in where power lies within our society and how decisions are made which shape our lives.

Government & Politics is not for you if: You find examinations a challenge and have no interest in the news or current affairs.

Subject Specific Requirements:C in a creative subject (if studied)

NEW TO

SEPT 2015


HISTORY

HEALTH & SOCIAL CAREThis would be a suitable course if you are interested in a career in health, caring or Early Years services. Additionally, many of our students choose Health and Social Care as they find the content of the course interesting and relevant. The subject provides a very useful foundation for many other careers or university courses because of the variety of skills you will develop.

Topics you will cover:The course is made up of 4 units. Two units are coursework units, one is a controlled assessment and one is an examined unit. The coursework units make up 60% of the course grade. The controlled assessment and examined unit make up 40% of the course grade. You will cover topics such as:

> Promoting quality care in Health and Social Care settings, > Promoting health and well-being, > Caring for older people, > Children’s health, early years and social care services.

Health and Social care is for you if: You are self-motivated, you like doing lots of coursework and you are interested in working with people.

Health and Social care is not for you if: You prefer written exams, you find it hard to be organised and you leave everythingto the last minute.

Subject Specific Requirements:C in English Language or a merit in BTEC H&SC

Subject Specific Requirements:C in History (if studied) with a minimum average GCSE Points Score of 5

There isn’t a subject more interesting than History! Learning about how the past affected the present can be exciting and eye-opening.

Oliver Jones, Wakefield City Academy

I have found studying Health and Social Care has surpassed my expectations! Everyone cares about each other in our group which makes lessons enjoyable. I loved doing my health campaign as it challenged me and I learned presentation skills and how to help others to learn! I cannot wait to do Year 13!

Jenna Hunt, Crofton Academy

History is for you if: You enjoy research, analysis, developing your own arguments and written communication.

History is not for you if: You do not enjoy writing essays or analysing source material.

Topics you will cover: > Life in Medieval Britain, the people who brought about change,

the power struggles that occurred and the impact these had on British society and daily life.

> A non-British period in depth study from one of the following areas: the French Revolution, democracy and dictatorship in Germany 1919-63 or Russia 1894-1941.

> Change over a hundred year period, with the study taking a thematic approach. These themes include: society, the economy, individuals, events and politics. A topic option for this will be chosen from one of the following areas; Britain and Ireland or, popular culture and the witch craze in the 16th and 17th century or Civil Rights in the USA.

History is a fascinating and exciting subject, not only because it encourages the discovery of secrets from the past, but also because it helps us to understand the world around us today. A-Level History offers both a breadth and depth study of the past incorporating a spectrum of employability skills such as: critical and reflective thinking, communication, analysis, research. The course will allow students to delve more deeply into a wide range of events over a time frame of more than 200 years.


Law is both an interesting and challenging subject, having direct relevance to everyday life. It is a useful qualification for those wishing to pursue a legal career but also for those with just an interest in legal matters.

Topics you will cover:Year 12: The roles of the police, court system, magistrates, juries, barristers and solicitors, and parliamentary law-making and judicial precedent

Year 13: Murder, manslaughter, assaults, defences e.g. intoxication, and self-defence and property crimes, such as theft, robbery and burglary.

Law is for you if: You have an interest in discussing the law and current affairs, whilst having the ability to work hard and memorise lots of facts.

Law is not for you if: You dislike lengthy exams with essay style. questions.

LAW


Law lessons are really interesting and stand out from other subject lessons. It’s great learning about things you hear in the news on a normal day and actually understanding them. Law will definitely benefit me in life after College!

Hannah Braham, The Freeston Academy


MATHEMATICSThis is a highly prized qualification which complements many programmes of study and which provides access to wide-ranging careers and study paths.Topics you will cover:The course builds on many topics from GCSE, in particular algebra, so you’ll revisit topics such as powers and roots, equations and inequalities, trigonometry looking at sine, cosine and tan equations and graphs. And you’ll explore a major new topic called calculus. Decision Maths in Year 12 also introduces totally new ideas - how does a sat-nav know how to find the quickest route? In Year 13 you can choose between a statistics module (handling data) or a mechanics module (studying forces and motion), depending on your other A-Level choices and your personal strengths and interests. Grade B in GCSE Maths is required for this course and assessment is by examination.

Maths is for you if: You are very confident working with algebra and enjoy complex multi-stage problems.

Maths is not for you if: You panic or give up if you encounter unusual problems you’ve not seen before.

FURTHERM

ATHEMATICS

Do you have a flair for maths and enjoy it? Are you considering doing Maths or a Maths related subject at university? Then choose Further Maths. Further Maths is taught alongside Maths so you will have twice the lessons and study twice the modules, leading to 2 A-Levels.

Topics you will cover:It’s a double award, so you work towards A-Level Maths and A-Level Further Maths. Studying twice as many modules, you’ll get to explore some topics in real depth and some particularly interesting maths that you don’t even come close to in the normal A-Level course: hyperbolic functions, complex numbers, second order differential equations, polar coordinates. You’ll get a really good grounding in statistics, mechanics and decision maths.

Further Maths is for you if: You have real flair for maths, you want it to take up two subject choices and you’re considering maths or a maths related course at university.

Further Maths is not for you if: You are not an exceptionally committed and passionate mathematician - it’s too challenging to ‘coast’

Subject Specific Requirements:B in Maths with a minimum average GCSE Points Score of 5.4 (or an A in Maths)

Maths is a great course. It’s challenging, fun, extremely enjoyable and opens up opportunities for later life. I’d strongly recommend it.

Cavan McGoldrick, Carleton Community

High School

Subject Specific Requirements:A* in Maths with a minimum average GCSE Points Score of 5.8

A challenging subject, but with the right amount of work it is very enjoyable and rewarding.

Emma Pippard, Campsmount


MEDIA STUDIESYou should study A-Level Media Studies if you are interested in the ways in which the media are constructed, the messages they deliver and the way they interact with their audience. You should also be interested in creating your own media products.

Topics you will cover:In Year 12 you will analyse a variety of texts that may include film trailers, TV programmes, newspapers and magazines. You will study media theory that will examine the construction of texts and audience responses which will be the basis of your assessments throughout the course and the final examination. In addition to the theoretical aspect of the course you will also research and produce an original piece of print-based media in the form of an advertising campaign or a magazine cover and inside pages.

Year 13 is similarly split with the study of three specific media industries (film, television and magazines) on which you will be assesses in a final examination. The practical half of the course will be an extended piece of research and a related piece of original media production.

Media Studies is for you if: You have both a theoretical and creative interest in Media as the subject is assessed by 50% examination and 50% coursework.

Media Studies is not for you if: You are not open to developing both assessed aspects of the course, using theoretical concepts in practical contexts and answering three essay questions in the final examination.

Music is rewarding - it is rated very highly by universities. It has the highest number of transferable skills of any A-level. It is active and motivational inside and out of the classroom. Your GCSE will prepare you for A-Level Music, but you might want to study further after A-Level, so we ask you to be fluent in notation.

MUS

ICTopics you will cover:Performance on your instrument or singing counts for 30% of the marks, composition counts for 30% and one exam counts for 40%. You may perform any pieces you wish, as long as they are at least grade 5 standard. Compositions may be traditional notation or recorded with a chord chart, tab or descriptions. For the exam, you will study a very wide range of set works, from Bach to Oasis, enhance your analytical skills and develop chord recognition. The music department is equipped with its own suite of computers with dedicated software, plenty of practice space for you to use at any time. You will be expected to study outside lessons and use all the resources available to you.

Music is for you if: You enjoy practising, want to develop as a composer and get a kick out of analysing scores.

Music is not for you if: You don’t practise, don’t like homework or cannot read music very well.

Subject Specific Requirements:C in Music or a merit in BTEC (if studied) Grade 5 standard in practical and theory

I have enjoyed Music A-Level and it has developed my understanding of musical terms, techniques and genres. My performance skills have improved as I have taken part in extra-curricular activities in addition to class learning.Charlie Brocklehurst, Castleford Academy

Subject Specific Requirements:C in English Language and a minimum average GCSE Points Score of 4.5

I have always been interested in music and magazines so I thought it would be a great course for me. I love this course and everything it has to offer which can open a lot of doors in later life.

Laura Pritchard The Kings School


Subject Specific Requirements:C in Music or a merit at BTEC (if studied)

Music Technology is an exciting course that develops your knowledge of popular music, your ability to use sequencing software and allows you to gain a practical knowledge of multi-track recording in a studio. It is fun and challenging. It would be good if you had ability in performing with aninstrument, but this is not essential. It is important that you like listening to all types of popular music and enjoying creating music using software.

MUSIC TECHNOLOGYTopics you will cover:Coursework counts for 70% of the total marks. This will involve a sequencing task, creating an arrangement of a song in a different style to the original and recording a multi-track recording in the studio. 30% of the course is a listening examination, which will involve some short responses to different types of popular music and recording techniques.

PHOTOGRAPHYThe Visual Arts department at NEW College offers students the opportunity to be creative, and develop their independent working skills in an exciting and supportive environment.

The art and design Photography course is an introduction to the subject where you will be introduced to a variety of techniques and produce some exciting and creative photographic work. You will start by learning how to create images in a traditional photographic darkroom, using film cameras, learning about composition and making your own black and white photographs. You will then be introduced to digital photography using Apple Mac computers and a range of industry standard software such as Adobe Photoshop to manipulate images and produce professional quality results.

During the course you will have the opportunity to learn about other photographers and artists and all your work, images, research and ideas will be recorded in sketchbooks throughout the year.

Photography is one of the most popular subjects at college and is intended to teach you how to work independently and creatively by producing original and personal photographs

Topics you will cover:The course begins with a skills building project which will help you develop skills in a range of photographic media and at the same time allow you to start working independently. You will look at a wide range of other photographers’ and artists’ work, both traditional and contemporary and use these to inspire and inform your own work.

You will then be able to select your own direction to work in, choosing ideas and techniques that suit you.

There is an externally set assignment in both Year 12 and Year 13 where you will be given a starting point to explore and develop in your own way. This will conclude with you producing a final piece of work in a timed exam and exhibiting your work at the end of Year 13.

Photography is for you if: You are an artistic or creative person who likes coursework subjects and is highly self-motivated.

Photography is not for you if: You don’t like practical independent work and have no interest in the visual arts.

Subject Specific Requirements:C in a creative subject or a merit at BTEC (if studied) and a minimum average GCSE Points Score of 5

Photography at NEW College is a great course to explore your imagination and portray your ideas in a visual way. The course is made personal through independent projects that you really feel passionate about.

Amy Sweaton, The King’s School

NEW TO

SEPT 2015


PHYS

ICS

In Physics we try to answer some of the big questions in life: What is matter? Where did the universe come from? How can we describe the way things interact? How might we get “clean” energy in the future?

Along the way we stumble across answers to smaller questions such as why it’s important to keep your loudspeakers the right distance from the wall. We also look at the physics behind important technologies, including medical imaging. If you have a curious nature and a positive attitude then you will be well suited to the course. An A-Level in Physics helps you prepare for a career in science, engineering or medicine. The analytical and numeracy skills, precision of thought and ability to understand complex ideas that are represented by an A-Level in Physics are also highly sought after in business and by universities in general.

Topics you will cover:Mechanics, electric circuits, waves, quantum physics, electric and gravitational fields, nuclear physics and radioactivity, medical imaging, cosmology

Physics is for you if: You like to understand, predict and explain the physical universe in words and maths.

Physics is not for you if: You are happy not understanding.

PHYSICAL EDUCATIONPhysical Education is an interesting and challenging subject. With the ever-increasing popularity of leisure and recreation in society, there are many career options following on from this subject. The course is based around developing knowledge and understanding of the effects of a healthy and active lifestyle, as well as biomechanical, physiological and psychological aspects which optimise performance. Topics you will cover: > Anatomy and physiology (in respect to exercise), skill acquisition and

opportunities for participation. > Physiological and psychological factors which optimise performance and

contemporary issues and influences in sport.

Subject Specific Requirements:C in PE or Science or a merit in BTEC Sport with a minimum average GCSE Points Score of 5

Physical Education is the course for you if: You have a passion for sport, exercise and fitness; if you are a strong performer in sport and if you do well in exams.

Physical Education is not for you if: You are not a specialist in one or two sports, struggle in exam conditions and not prepared for high theoretical classroom content.

PE is by far one of the most enjoyable subjects. We receive a tremendous amount of support, not just in lessons but outside of them too.

Tori Partridge, Airedale Academy

Very well structured course, plus a bundle of fun!

Bradley Hutt, Carleton Community High School

Subject Specific Requirements:B in Physics or additional Science and a B in Maths with a minimum average GCSE Points Score of 5.8(or an A in Maths)


RELIGIOUS STUDIESReligious Studies is an exciting and challenging subject to study at A-Level. The focus of the course is on philosophy of religion and the study of religious ethics. This includes examining and evaluating how scholars have argued for and against the existence of God, along with studying religious ethical theories and their application to moral issues.

Topics you will cover:Philosophy and Religion includes arguments for and against the existence of God, the nature of evil and suffering, and religious language. Students also study different types of religious experience such as conversions, visions and miracles with examples from different religions. Ethics and religion includes the study of three theories of how people should behave – natural law, situation ethics and utilitarianism.

Religious Studies is for you if: You enjoy learning new philosophical theories to explain our existence and are comfortable writing long essay type answers to exam questions.

Religious Studies is not for you if: You don’t like any of the above or you believe it is the same as studying the subject at GCSE.

PSYCHOLOGYPsychology is a fascinating, stimulating and popular subject which involves understanding and explaining the human mind and behaviour in a scientific, research based way.

Topics you will cover: > Cognitive psychology; the study of mental processes like memory and

attention > Social psychology; how our behaviour is influenced by others > Biological psychology; explaining behaviours, like stress, from a biological

perspective. > Psychodynamic psychology; explaining behaviour in terms of inner conflicts in

the mind > The appreciation of issues and debates in Psychology.

Additionally, Psychology is a scientific subject which is based on conducting research, collecting and handling data, and statistical analysis.

Psychology is for you if: You have an interest in science, want to understand and evaluate human behaviour and can learn and memorise lots of information.

Psychology is not for you if: You don’t like big exams and struggle to revise lots of new information.

Subject Specific Requirements:B in either Maths or Science with a minimum average GCSE Points Score of 5


Religious Studies is a fantastic subject. The things we learn about are fascinating and we have great discussions as well as learning loads.

Ciaran Fletcher, The Snaith School

Psychology is one of the more interesting subjects. I enjoy how challenging it is, and if you like challenging subjects it’s worth taking.

Coral Shepherd, Crofton Academy


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If you are interested in modern issues such as crime, poverty and inequality and want to understand how society works, then you should consider Sociology.

This subject gets to the very heart of a range of controversial matters, examining social problems, processes and institutions that affect us all.

Topics you will cover: > Families and households including changing family structures,

demography, gender and the role of children > The sociology of education: social differences in achievement,

education policy and theories > Crime and deviance: criminological theories, social patterns of crime,

crime and justice > The sociology of the mass media: ownership and control, media

content and audiences, globalisation and culture > Sociological research methods > Sociological theory

SPANISHOur Year 12 course, as well as developing your ability to speak and write in a foreign language, will increase your knowledge and understanding of the world around you, informing you about contemporary issues in the countries where the language you are studying is spoken. You will build on your knowledge from GCSE, gaining in particular a deeper understanding of the grammatical structures of the language. You will work with other students and have lessons in the computerised language laboratory.

Topics you will cover:Year 12: Advertising, new technology, cinema, music, fashion, sport, holidays, health and well-being, family, friendships, marriage

Year 13: The environment, immigration, law and order, wealth and poverty, scientific and technological progress, cultural topics (including a film and a literary text)

Spanish is for you if: You like speaking Spanish, are interested in how languages work and are willing to learn new material regularly.

Spanish is not for you if: You are not willing to try to speak, don’t like independent learning or struggle to remember material accurately.

Sociology is for you if: You are interested in the world around you and enjoy learning and discussing new ideas and theories.

Sociology is not for you if: You dislike writing essays and preparing for exams.

Subject Specific Requirements:C in English Language with a minimum average GCSE Points Score of 5

Subject Specific Requirements:B in Spanish and B in English Language or a minimum average GCSE points score of 5.6 (or an A in Spanish)

Spanish is a challenging yet rewarding subject. During my Year 12 course I have become a lot more fluent in speaking which feels great. It will open many doors in the future.

Amber Haley, The Rodillian Academy

Sociology is an intriguing exploration of the world around us and looks at different perspectives of aspects of society such as the family and education system.

Charlie Watson, The Kings School


TEXTILESThe Visual Arts department at NEW College offers students the opportunity to be creative and develop their independent working skills in an exciting and supportive environment.

The Textiles & Fashion Design course is a creative subject which will give you the confidence to explore your ideas even if you have never done studied the subject before. We will challenge what Textiles has traditionally been about, help you build upon your skills and help you learn new techniques. We will use what you would consider ‘traditional’ textiles and fashion materials such as wool and fabric and incorporate them with less traditional materials like metal, wire, wood, paper and anything else you can think of to create exciting and unusual textiles and fashion pieces.

Textiles and fashion is hard work but an enjoyable and creative course.

Topics you will cover:The course begins with a skills building unit which will develop skills you already have as well as explore ideas in both fashion and textiles.

You will look at a wide range of other artists’ work, both traditional and contemporary, and use these to inspire and inform your work.

You will then be able to select your own direction to work in, choosing ideas and media that suit you.

There is an externally set assignment in both Year 12 and Year 13 where you will be given a starting point to explore and develop in your own way. This will conclude with you producing a final piece of work in a timed exam and exhibiting your work at the end of Year 13.

Textiles & Fashion Design is for you if: You enjoy manipulating materials, researching contemporary practitioners and developing your own way of working.

Textiles & Fashion Design is not for you if: You don’t enjoy working practically and are not open to new ideas..

Subject Specific Requirements:C in a creative subject or a merit at BTEC (if studied)

& FASHION DESIGN

Textiles has been an excellent and enjoyable subject that has expanded my creative abilities. The facilities are brilliant and the atmosphere in Visual Arts is lovely

George Smith, Kettlethorpe High School


BTECCOURSES2015/16If you already know which subject you would like to specialise in you should consider one of our BTEC Extended Diplomas (3 A-Levels equivalent).Alternatively, choose 3 to 4 single BTEC subjects to make up your programme of study. BTEC qualifications are an alternative to A-Levels and can be the best option for many students to progress to university. BTECs are assessed by continuous coursework.

BTEC Entry RequirementsAll BTEC qualifications require you to have achieved a C in English GCSE, and achieved at least a Merit if you have studied the subject at Level 2.

ExceptionsIf you have achieved a D in English you will also need to have achieved a Distinction in the subject you want to study.

BTEC Extended Diploma in

ART AND DESIGNEQUIVALENT TO 3 A-LEVELS

BTEC Art and Design is the best course I could have chosen. I’ve learnt so much, I have the best teachers and I have enjoyed the whole year. I would tell anyone who wanted to do anything creative to take this course!

Emma Wright, Airedale Academy

BTEC Extended Diploma in Art and Design is for you if: You see a future working in the creative indus-tries, think you will be successful in a coursework subject and are open minded about trying new artistic techniques.

BTEC Extended Diploma in Art and Design is not for you if: You don’t like practical, independent work and have no interest in the visual arts.

If you love art and design and feel your future is in the creative industries this course will be great for you. BTEC Art and Design is a full-time, two-year, level 3 Art course which has been designed to develop your skills in a range of artistic disciplines including: drawing, painting, print making, photography (both darkroom and digital), textiles, fashion, 3D and many others.

You will develop visual communication skills and the ability to think conceptually which will help you develop into truly independent artists and designers. The course gives you the opportunity to develop intellectual, imaginative and creative art work and use a wide range of artistic media.

Topics you will cover:Year 1 - In the first year you will be introduced to the formal elements of art and design and you will explore a range of media including drawing, painting, 3D, photography, print and textiles. You will be taught skills in all these areas and work through projects designed to develop your artistic ability. As the year progresses, we will help you choose a specialism and produce a final major project in that area

Year 2 – You will explore and deepen your experience and knowledge in your chosen specialism as your work becomes increasingly independent. We will help you develop a portfolio of work and prepare you for university or job interviews. During the year you will be set a range of projects designed to stretch and challenge you, concluding in a final major project and end of year exhibition.


BUSINESSEQUIVALENT TO 3 A-LEVELSThis is a specialist course which focuses on the education and training of students who are interested in a career in business.

This is a vocational qualification which means that whilst providing a 3 A-Level equivalent qualification in Business, it also provides students with the opportunity to learn and develop skills for employment.

Topics you will cover:The business environment, business resources, introduction to marketing, business communication, accounting, marketing, human resources and international business.

BTEC Extended Diploma in Business is ideal for those who are seeking a wellrecognised and diverse qualification with teachers who offer a lot of support.

Adam Healy, St Wilfrid’s Catholic High School

BTEC Extended Diploma in Business is for you if: You are looking for an excellent introduction to a real business career or further studies. If you like doing coursework and not taking exams this subject is perfect for you.

BTEC Extended Diploma in Business is not for you if: You are not prepared to work hard both in and outside of the lessons to produce imaginative coursework assignments.


BTEC Diploma in

BUSINESSEQUIVALENT TO 2 A-LEVELS

We believe that many students learn best when they can apply their own knowledge, skills and enthusiasm to a subject. The BTEC Business qualification will give you the opportunity to study a wide range of topic areas which will equip you for the modern workplace or Higher Education.

Topics you will cover:The units that you will study include the business environment, accounting, marketing, human resources, management and the role of new technologies. As this is a vocational course, assessment is on-going and all of the coursework assignments are linked to real world businesses. Hard work is rewarded, motivating you to analyse and improve your own performance and develop key skills for employment.

BTEC Subsidiary Diploma in

BUSINESSEQUIVALENT TO 1 A-LEVEL

BTEC Business is a highly enjoyable subject to choose. It’s one of the most worthwhile courses you could pick and all of the teachers are great. Also within this course you are able to make some good friends

Curtis Griffiths, Minsthorpe Community College

BTEC Diploma in Business is for you if: You are looking for an excellent introduction to a real business career or further studies. If you like doing coursework and not taking exams this subject is perfect for you.

BTEC Diploma in Business is not for you if: You are not prepared to work hard both in and outside of the lessons to produce imaginative coursework assignments.

The BTEC Business qualification will give you the opportunity to study a wide range of topic areas which will equip you for the modern workplace or higher education. BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Business is equivalent to 1 A-Level over 2 years.

Topics you will cover:The Business Environment – This unit looks at the purpose of different businesses. How they are owned, structured and the effect of external factors.

Business Resources – This unit looks at the resources that are required to run a successful business including human, physical and financial resources.BTEC Subsidiary Diploma in Business has

taught me how to meet deadlines effectively as well as giving me an insight into how a business is run.

Luke Rose, Castleford Academy

BTEC Subsidiary Diploma in Business is for you if: You are looking for an excellent introduction to a real business career or further studies. If you like doing coursework and not taking exams this subject is perfect for you.

BTEC Subsidiary Diploma in Business is not for you if: You are not prepared to work hard both in and outside of the lessons to produce imaginative coursework assignments.


BTEC Nationa Award in Children’s Play, Learning & Development is for you if: > You are self-motivated. > You like doing coursework but are happy to do a short exam. > You are interested in working with children

BTEC Nationa Award in Children’s Play, Learning & Development is not for you if: > You prefer ALL written exams. > You find it hard to be organised.

BTEC National Award in

CHILDREN’S PLAY, LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENTEQUIVALENT TO 1 A-LEVELThis is a specialist course for students who wish to enter into a career in Early Years Education or Childcare. It is a vocational qualification which is equivalent to one A-Level. It carries 120 UCAS points.

Topics you will cover:There are five core units of study which include: > Child development (an externally assessed unit) > Play in Early Years settings > Meeting children’s physical development, physical care and

health needs > Health and Safety practice in Early Years settings > Collaboration with parents, colleagues and other professionals in Early Years.

You will also do 50 hours work placement.

CPLD is the best course ever! There is a lot of work to do in College but I have loved my work placement at Sunshine Kids Pre-School. I want to work with children and this course has helped me to know that this is what I will enjoy.

Rebecca Healy, The King’s School

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Certificate and Diploma in Financial Studies – equivalent to one A-Level over 2 years.

Are you worried about becoming financially independent at university or when you start full-time work? Do you want to get a head start to a career in the financial services or banking industry? These qualifications will teach you what you need to know about managing your money.

Topics you will cover include: > Everyday banking > Dealing with debt > The personal life cycle > Savings and investment > Financial planning

Certificate and Diploma in Financial Studies is for you if: You are interested in finding out about your own personal finance and financial institutions like banks and insurance companies.

Certificate and Diploma in Financial Studies is not for you if: You want to study how to set up a business and how businesses work.

Financial Studies has boosted my confidence as I can now manage my own finances and budget which will be helpful when I get a job or go to universityJessica Cooper, Cathedral Academy



GAMES DESIGNEQUIVALENT TO 3 A-LEVELS

This BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma is a two-year, triple-award course which provides work related knowledge and practical skills in computer games design. The course is suitable for both those choosing to find employment after college as well as those moving onto university. It is broadly equivalent to three full A-Levels and attracts similar UCAS points. The course will make up at least three quarters of your college timetable. Assessment is made up of internally marked, portfolio-based units. It’s a demanding course which requires all students to have a keen interest in all aspects of computer games design, be well organised and be able to manage their time effectively.

Topics you will cover include:Pre-production techniques for the creative media industries, communication skills for creative media production, research techniques for the creative media industries, creative media production management project, working to a brief in the creative media industries, critical approaches to creative media products, understanding the computer games industry, computer game platforms and technologies, computer game design, sound for computer games, computer game story development, designing tests for computer games, digital graphics for computer games and stop motion animation.

BTEC Extended Diploma in Computer Games Design is for you if:You don’t like exams, but are creative and have a good attention to detail.

BTEC Extended Diploma in Computer Games Design is not for you if:You are not well organised, or you do not have a keen interest in computer games design.


HEALTH AND SOCIAL CAREEQUIVALENT TO 3 A-LEVELSThis is a specialist course for students who wish to enter into a career in Health and Social Care. It is a vocational qualification which is equivalent to3 A-Levels. The course includes 100 hours of work placement time which is compulsory.

Topics you will cover:The course is made up of 8 core units plus 10 specialist units. You must study all the core units. This adds up to 18 units in total over the two-year course. The 8 core (compulsory) units are:

1. Developing effective communication in Health and Social Care 2. Equality, diversity and rights in Health and Social Care 3. Health, safety and security in Health and Social 4. Development through the life stages 5. Anatomy and physiology 6. Personal and professional development.7. Sociological perspectives in Health and Social Care 8. Psychological perspectives in Health and Social Care

BTEC Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care is for you if: You are self-motivated, you like doing lots of coursework and you are interested in working with people.

BTEC Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care is not for you if: You prefer written exams, you find it hard to be organised and you leave everything to the last minute.

The BTEC Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care has helped me because I know a lot more about different health topics and I have got a lot better at writing essays and reports to a good standard. I really enjoyed my placement at Pinderfields Hospital where I worked on the maternity ward and I now know this is my chosen career.

Hannah Bradley, Airedale Academy


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This is a specialist course for students who wish to enter into a career in Health and Social Care. It is a vocational qualification which is equivalent to two A-Levels. The course includes 100 hours in work placements which is compulsory.

Topics you will cover:The course is made up of 8 core units plus 10 specialist units. You must study all the core units. This adds up to 18 units in total over the two-year course. The 8 core (compulsory) units are: 1. Developing effective communication in Health and Social Care 2. Equality, diversity and rights in Health and Social Care 3. Health, safety and security in Health and Social 4. Development through the life stages 5. Anatomy and physiology 6. Personal and professional development.7. Sociological perspectives in Health and Social Care

The BTEC Diploma in Health and Social Care is a really interesting course. I have enjoyed the different units even though I have had to work really hard doing this subject with my other A-Levels

Ebony Naylor, Royds School

BTEC Diploma in Health and Social Care is for you if: You are self-motivated, You like doing lots of coursework and you are interested in working with people.

BTEC Diploma in Health and Social Care is not for you if: You prefer written exams, you find it hard to be organised and you leave everything to the last minute.


IT

I found the course challenging and interesting and enjoyed the variety of the units, like Games Design and Website Production, teaching me new skills I could use in the future.

Ben Williams, De Lacy Academy

BTEC IT is for you if: You don’t like exams, but prefer the hands on approach to studying IT.

BTEC IT is not for you if: You are not well organised, or you don’t have a keen interest in IT.

The BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma is a two year course which provides work-related knowledge and practical skills in ICT, and is both suitable for those choosing to find employment after college as well as those moving on to university. It is broadly equivalent to 3 full A-Levels and attracts similar UCAS points. The course will make up at least three quarters of your college timetable. Assessment is made up of eighteen portfolio based units (nine each year), produced as controlled assessments which are marked internally. It is a demanding course which requires students to be well organised and able to manage their time effectively.

Topics you will cover:Communication and employability skills, spread sheet modelling, computer systems, information systems, e-commerce, computer networks, website production, installing and upgrading software, digital graphics, computer animation, IT technical support, database design, human computer interaction, digital graphics for interactive media, event driven programming, maintaining computer systems, computer games design and computer game platforms and technologies.

EQUIVALENT TO 3 A-LEVELS BTEC Subsidiary Diploma in

ITThe BTEC Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma is a two year course which provides work-related knowledge and practical skills in ICT and is both suitable for those choosing to find employment after college as well as those moving on to university. It is equivalent to 1 full A-Level and attracts similar UCAS points. Assessment is made up of portfolio based units, produced as controlled assessments which are marked internally. It is a demanding course which requires students to be well organised and able to manage their time effectively.

Topics you will cover:Communication and employability skills, computer systems, e-commerce, computer networks, digital graphics and computer games design.

EQUIVALENT TO 1 A-LEVEL



LAW (APPLIED)EQUIVALENT TO 1 A-LEVEL

This course is suitable for students who struggle with exams and prefer to learn in a more practical, assignment based way. The course focuses on knowledge and practical skills, providing a very good opportunity for learners to access employment opportunities within the legal sector or further studies at university.

Topics you will cover:The 3 core units in Year 12 are: dispute-solving in the legal system, understandable law-making, and aspects of legal liability.Students will study the following topic areas in Year 13: unlawful homicide and police powers, offences against property and police powers, and consumer law.

You can choose to gain the certificate in Year 12 or carry on to complete the Subsidiary Diploma in Year 13


CREATIVE MEDIA PRODUCTIONEQUIVALENT TO 1 A-LEVEL

BTEC Law was definitely the best option that I chose at NEW College. The Law department are great and are always there to help you when you have problems with your coursework. I picked BTEC Law because I don’t like exams and BTEC Law is 100% coursework. The topics we cover are all interesting.

Jessica Poppitt, Carleton Community High School

BTEC Subsidiary Diploma in Applied Law is for you if:You have an interest in discussing and researching the law and current affairs.

BTEC Subsidiary Diploma in Applied Law is not for you if:You are not well organised, dislike coursework or do not possess an interest in the Law.

You should study BTEC Media if you are interested in the production side of media and want to explore the creative, practical side of the subject. There is no examination, the course is entirely assessed on coursework and a combination of analysis of existing media and planning and production of your own original products.

Topics you will cover:Music video production, documentary film production, creation of an advertising campaign.

BTEC Subsidiary Diploma in Media is for you if:You have an interest in both the theoretical and creative applications of media concepts and practices. You have an interest in using media technologies.

BTEC Subsidiary Diploma in Media is not for you if:You perform better in examinations and do not wish to experience the vocational aspect of media, including very strict deadlines.

BTEC Diploma in

MUSICEQUIVALENT TO 2 A-LEVELSThis is an exciting course for students wishing to enhance their performance skills. This is a two year course and assessment is all based on coursework. Many of the units are performance based, but there will be chance to develop composition skills and there will be units, which involve extended writing tasks. There will also be music technology based units, where you can use specialised software and the recording studio. BTEC students are expected to perform inside and outside of college throughout the course.

Topics you will cover:You will cover a variety of units, which could include: music performance techniques, the sound and music industry, composing music, music theory and harmony, pop music in practice, solo music performance skills, studying music from around the world and working as a musical ensemble.

The best thing about BTEC Music is that your teachers encourage you to do your very best in all of your interests.

Connor Walker Morrison, The Purston E-Act Academy


BTEC Extended Diploma in Performing Arts is for you if: You want to enter the performing arts industry or be a professional actor or performer.

BTEC Extended Diploma in Performing Arts is not for you if: You don’t like performing and have no interest in following this career path.


PERFORMING ARTSEQUIVALENT TO 3 A-LEVELS

Performing Arts is a dynamic and exciting new course that prepares students for performance and beyond. This programme of study allows students to create, understand and perform drama, dance and music in a challenging way.

Topics you will cover:Performance workshop, performing arts business, historical context of performance, rehearsing for performance, Performing to an audience, variety performance, principles of acting, applying acting styles, developing and applying physical theatre, developing movement skills, voice and the actor, devising plays, contemporary theatre performance, musical theatre performance, improvisation, film and TV acting, the practice of directing for theatre and script writing.

This course covers everything we need to know about being a professional performer. It’s fantastic!

Amy-Lewise Spurgeon, Carleton Community High School

The Visual Arts department at NEW College offers students the opportunity to be creative and develop their independent working skills in an exciting and supportive environment. The BTEC Photography course is a highly practical introduction to the subject where you will explore a variety of techniques and produce industry standard, exciting and creative photographic work. As the course progresses you will have the opportunity to work more independently, write your own projects and specialise in areas of photography that interest you the most. The course will conclude with you producing a portfolio of work and an end of year exhibition. Topics you will cover:> Composition: how to frame and organise images to create visual exciting

photographs. > Digital photography: functions of a digital camera and techniques such as

macro photography. > Digital manipulation: using Adobe Photoshop to correct, alter and be creative

with images.> Darkroom photography: you will learn how to take photographs using film

photography and print pictures in a traditional darkroom. > Studio practice: portrait photography, lighting and studio techniques. > Location photography: going out on location to take photographs in a variety of

different environments.> Animation: how to create moving images using photography.> Commercial photography: business practices and techniques used in the

industry.


PHOTOGRAPHYEQUIVALENT TO 1 A-LEVEL

BTEC Subsidiary Diploma in Photography is for you if: You are interested in both creative and commercial photography, like using new technologies such as Adobe Photoshop and digital cameras and perform well in coursework subjects.

BTEC Subsidiary Diploma in Photography is not for you if: You perform better in examinations and don’t want to experience photography in a more vocational capacity.


PERFORMING ARTS (ACTING)EQUIVALENT TO 1 A-LEVEL

Performing Arts (Acting) is a dynamic and practical course that prepares students for the world of acting and beyond. The programme of study allows students to understand the principles of acting and how to use them within a performance environment. This is a very practical course that involves a lot of acting and supporting coursework. There are no written examinations.

During the course students will study many different dramatic genres and practitioners, which will help them with stage skills, dramatic understanding and stage application. This uniquely delivered programme is designed for those interested in continuing their study of performing arts in higher education and those who want to enter the performing arts industry as an actor.

Topics you will cover:Principles of Acting, Devising Theatre, Applying Acting Styles, Performing to an Audience, Contemporary Theatre Performance, Auditions for Actors

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PUBLIC SERVICESEQUIVALENT TO 3 A-LEVELS


PHOTOGRAPHY

On completion of this programme you could apply for a careerin any of the Public Services, including the Police Force, Ambulance Service, Fire and Rescue Service, Royal Navy, RAF, Army, Customs and Excise or the Prison Service. Topics you will cover:> Government, politics and the public services> Citizenship, diversity and the public services> Leadership and teamwork in the public services > Volunteering in the public services> Understanding discipline in the uniformed public services > Career planning for the uniformed public services > Employment in the uniformed public services > Police powers in the public services > Aspects of the legal system and law making process > Fitness testing and training for uniformed services> International perspectives for the uniformed services> Outdoor and adventurous expeditions> Crime and its effects on society > Command and control in the uniformed public services> The planning for and management of major incidents, responding to

emergency service incidents> Uniformed public service employment> Understanding behaviour in public sector > Employment and training and fitness for sport

BTEC Extended Diploma in Public Services is for you if:You have an ambition to work in the uniformed services, are interested in fitness and health and if you enjoy coursework and readily meet deadlines.

BTEC Extended Diploma in Public Services is not for you if:You have no interest in the Army, Police, RAF, Fire Service, Navy or Coastguard.


SCIENCE (APPLIED)EQUIVALENT TO 1 A-LEVEL

The course is a two year course designed to meet the needs of post 16 students who wish to progress from GCSE or from BTEC science or OCR national science Level 2. It compliments a wide range of subjects from Health and Social Care, PE, Psychology, Sociology, Geology and Geography.

Topics you will cover:> Scientific practical techniques> Elements and chemical reactions> Cell structure> Tissues and organs> Atoms, molecules and bonding> Health and Safety> Blood, heart and circulation> Food, diet and health> Analytical techniques> Lungs and breathing> The Lymphatic System and immunity> Separation techniques and purity> Physiology of human regulation and

reproduction

> Genetics and genetic engineering> Microbiological techniques> Homeostasis> The kidneys and urinary system> The nervous system> The reproductive system> Protein synthesis> Cell division> Basic DNA technology> The immune system> Micro-organisms > Cell pathology

BTEC Subsidiary Diploma in Applied Science (Biology) is for you if: You have an interest in science and living things, you enjoy practical work and would like to go on to a career in science or health care.

BTEC Subsidiary Diploma in Applied Science (Biology) is not for you if: You are poorly organised, struggle to manage your time effectively and often fail to meet deadlines.

This course is suitable for many chosen careers, such as nursing, and is a good subject to take alongside Health and Social Care.

Emma Eccles, St Thomas à Becket Catholic Secondary School


PERFORMING ARTS (ACTING)

I think Public Servies is a great course to take part in for anyone who wants to be in the Army, Police, Ambulance services etc. it teaches you about each of the services and takes into account their everyday tasks with the public. The teachers are also very good.

Anthony Bird, Campsmount Academy


BTEC Extended Diploma in Sport is for you if: You enjoy meeting regular work deadlines, don’t like exam assessment and have a passion for sport.

BTEC Extended Diploma in Sport is not for you if: You want to be assessed on your practical sporting ability and you do well in exams. In that case, the A-Level PE route is more appropriate for you.


SPORTEQUIVALENT TO 3 A-LEVELSDo you play: football, rugby, dance, squash or want a career in coaching and teaching or as a sportstechnician? Do you work well in a coursework learning environment? If you answer yes to both of these questions and you are consistently hard-working, enthusiastic and reliable then BTEC Sport is the course for you. You must be highly self-motivated.

What will I study (classroom)?Every morning session is classroom based where you must complete 19 BTEC Units.

You will cover 10 topics in Year 12.They include:Principles of anatomy and physiology in sport, the physiology of fitness, assessing risk in sport and fitness

In Year 13, you will cover a further 9 topics which will enable you to achieve the qualification.

My course provides a lot of opportunities, for example we get to go into primary schools to teach children.

Jess Brand, Kettlethorpe High School

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A BTEC Subsidiary Diploma is designed to be a practical, work-related course. You learn by completing projects and assignments that are based on realistic workplace situations, activities and demands. You must have an interest in all aspects of sport not just the practical side of the subject.

Topics you will cover:> The body in action (principles of anatomy and

physiology in sport)> Training and fitness for sport (the physiology of

fitness)> Health and Safety in sport (assessing risk in sport)> Fitness testing for sport (and exercise)> Sports nutrition and psychology for sports

performance

BTEC Subsidiary Diploma in Sport is for you if:You enjoy meeting regular work deadlines, don’t like exam assessment and have a passion for sport.

BTEC Subsidiary Diploma in Sport is not for you if:You want to be assessed on your practical sporting ability and you do well in exams. In that case, the A-Level PE route is more appropriate for you.

The teachers are always happy to help. The work is interesting and the course is fun and enjoyable.

Megan Pritchard, The Freeston Academy


POST 18: FOUNDATION DIPLOMA IN ART AND DESIGNThis is an exciting and stimulating one year course designed to help you make a well informed choice of degree as well as offering a major advantage when applying for highly competitive jobs and universities. The range of choice within the creative industries is vast and selecting an area of study at university or for employment is difficult. The course will give you the opportunity to mature and develop as well as explore a wider range of media and ideas than are offered at A-level or BTEC.

Students who study the Foundation Diploma are better prepared for the world outside sixth form education and make better and more informed choices moving forward.

The course is run and taught by enthusiastic, energetic and knowledgeable staff who will take care of all aspects of your education. On the course you will all have an individual work space as well as access to state of the art facilities such as Apple Mac computers with industry standard software, photographic darkrooms and a wide range of tradition art equipment. The course will be run over four days a week and is free to anyone under 19 at the start of the course.

There will be a week long Paris residential that will expose you to a large range of artwork and ideas.The course will conclude with a final major project and exhibition of your work. This will take 10 weeks and will be in your chosen specialism.

Specialism will fall in to one of the following areas:

Fine Art: painting, drawing, 3D, sculpture, photography, print, video, installation.

Visual Communication: graphic design, illustration, photography, animation, printing, textiles, fashion, surface pattern, costume design, embroidery.

3D: sculpture, interior design, furniture, architecture.


LEVEL 2 ENTRYREQUIREMENTSAt NEW College we offer one-year re-sit (Level 2) courses. These allow students to improve on the grades gained in Year 11 and/or fill any gaps in their qualifications.

A large percentage of our Level 2 students move onto Level 3 courses on completion of a successful one-year re-sit programme.

To study at Level 2 you should have achieved a good range of GCSEs (or equivalent) mainly at grades D and E.

Individual AssessmentStudents who have not been in full-time education for various reasons or who have recently moved to the United Kingdom from another country will be asked to sit a short test to determine the level of course they are most suited to.

DO YOU NEED TO RE-SIT YOUR GCSEs?Level 2 CoursesGCSE ENGLISH LANGUAGEThe aim of the GCSE English course is to improve your understanding and use of the language. Many jobs and degree courses require a GCSE English C grade or equivalent. The work centres on developing your knowledge of how to spell and punctuate accurately and how to communicate ideas in an effective manner in a range of different situations. We also develop your reading skills.

GCSE MATHEMATICSGCSE Maths is fundamental to young people’s employment. Many university courses and jobs require Maths GCSE at C or above. Students will be familiar with the topics, number, algebra, shape and space and statistics.

GCSE SCIENCEThis course is a one-year course specifically to meet the needs of post 16 students who wish to achieve a C grade or above in a science qualification at GCSE level. Studying GCSE Science will equip you with the necessary qualifications, skills and knowledge to progress to a variety of higher education courses or to go straight into employment.

GCSE PHOTOGRAPHY (DIGITAL)The course begins with us leading you through a variety of photographic projects covering such topics as macro, portrait and darkroom photography. You will be taught how to use various digital equipment and software such as Apple Mac computers, Adobe Photoshop and digital cameras. You will also be taught how to work in a traditional photographic darkroom printing your own black and white images. You will look at a wide range of other photographers and artists work both traditional and contemporary and use these to inspire and inform your own work. All work and ideas will be recorded in sketchbooks that will be put together throughout the year. As the course progresses you will be able to select your own direction to work in, picking ideas and techniques that suit you. Towards the end of the course there will be an externally set assignment where you will be given a starting point by the exam board to explore and develop in your own way. This will conclude with you producing a final piece of work in a timed exam at the end of the year.

BTEC FIRST CERTIFICATE IN BUSINESSEquivalent to 2 GCSEsTo be successful on the First Certificate in Business you need to be self-motivated and prepared to work hard. The topics you will cover include:

> Business purposes > Business organisations > People in organisations > Managing personal finance

BTEC FIRST CERTIFICATE IN INFORMATION AND CREATIVE TECHNOLOGYEquivalent to 2 GCSEs

The BTEC First Certificate in IT is a recognised ICT qualification which focuses on the practical application of technology and is designed to stimulate your creativity and develop real-world, practical skills that will underpin your learning across a wide range of subjects. It is a modern qualification for this dynamic subject and aims to give you the knowledge, understanding and skills necessary to prepare you for employment.

BTEC FIRST CERTIFICATE IN CREATIVE DIGITAL MEDIA PRODUCTIONEquivalent to 2 GCSEs

This course is 100% coursework and involves no examination. It will develop your practical and creative skills as well as providing some focus on theory. You will learn how to use film editing and desktop publishing software.

BTEC EXTENDED DIPLOMA IN HEALTH AND SOCIAL CAREEquivalent to 4 GCSEs

This is a specialist qualification for students interested in working with people. This course is currently made up of:

> Communication in Health and Social Care > Creative activities in Health and Social Care > Health and Safety in Health and Social Care > Development of individuals through the life

stages


How will NEW College help me choose my subjects?Because this is as important to us as it is to you, we provide as much quality advice and guidance as possible before enrolling you onto your chosen subjects.

Our Open Events are centred around subject choices. Both our staff and current students are available to give advice and answer questions whether you would like a member of staff’s perspective or the view of our current students.

n You will then be invited to have the first of four interviews with our experienced interviewers where subject choices and career ambitions will be discussed. You will then be invited to attend our

Induction Day once you have left school in July. After spending the day in subject sessions you will discuss with your

Progress Tutor whether you are happy with your chosen subjects.

n Finally, at enrolment you will have a third interview which again will focus on your subject choices, but this time will take into account the GCSEs you have achieved. After the enrolment interview every student is then interviewed by a senior member of staff who checks that the subjects you have chosen are suitable for you and your aspirations.

What is the difference between Level 2 and Level 3?Level 2 subjects are at GCSE level. Students choose to do A-Level 2 programme at NEW College if they have not met our College entry requirements to study at level 3. All students who have not achieved a grade C at English Language at GCSE will study at level 2. Level 3 subjects are A-level and Level 3 BTEC Qualifications.

How many subjects will I study?If studying A-levels you will study four A-levels. If you have not passed your Maths at grade C or above then you will take four A-levels plus GCSE Maths resit.

If studying BTEC qualifications you can choose to study different combinations such as:n BTEC Extended Diploma = (three A-level

equivalent)n BTEC Diploma = (two A-level equivalent)n BTEC Subsidiary Diploma = (one A-level

equivalent)Your BTEC programme must add up to the equivalent of at least three A-Levels.

What is the difference between BTEC qualifications and A-levels?A-levels involve exams whereas BTECs are 100% coursework. You should choose subjects that you have a realistic chance of being successful in. If you are good at exams then A-levels will be for you. If you find exams difficult and prefer doing coursework then you should consider taking a BTEC pathway. Both pathways will allow you to progress to university.

What if I find College difficult?Our team of Progress Tutors, all with knowledge, skills and experience of providing advice and guidance for young people, will be the ones who will provide the first line of support. If you are finding the subjects difficult then your Progress Tutor will arrange for you to attend additional subject sessions via our subject access period and subject tutorial. Furthermore, our study support teams will be on hand to provide individual help for students requiring help with study skills, writing skills and GCSE Maths. The College also provides a confidential counselling service that offers students a place and time to think and talk about specific problems and difficulties you may be having.

Will I be able to change subjects once I start?Yes. We ask students to remain in subjects for the first week to ensure you give them a chance before providing a three week zone in September where we allow students to change subjects. This is dependent upon there being places available in the subjects you would like to change to, and you must have the right subject specific entry requirements. Finally, we arrange for you to sit in on a lesson just to ensure you know what the new subject entails.

How will my parents/guardians/carers know if I am doing well at College?At NEW College we have a fantastic system named Firefly, that allows parents, guardians and carers to remain fully informed of your progress in real time. You and your parents will be given an individual username and password for Firefly (via the internet) which enables them to see your attendance and performance as lessons take place. It also informs them of all the monthly assessment grades you achieve and it allows them to read all pastoral logs that teachers write about you. For anyone who is interested in keeping well-informed about how well you are doing Firefly is for them.

When does the College day start and finish?Lessons start at 8.50am and finish at 4.00pm. However, your day will depend on your timetable. Students are only registered in timetabled lessons so free periods which we refer to as ‘directed time’, are up to you. During this time we will expect you to manage a balance between meeting friends and studying in one of our learning zones. For example, if your first lesson of the day is not until 10:40am then you will not be expected to be in College until then, unless you decide to come in anyway.

ANSWERS TO FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Here at NEW College, we are passionately committed to providing an inclusive learning environment in which diversity is both celebrated and valued.

We promise to treat each individual student with respect and dignity and to ensure that every member of our community studies and learns in an environment free from discrimination, harassment or victimisation.

We have a fundamental belief in the entitlement of every learner to fulfil his or her potential and will help both to remove any barriers to that full achievement and promote equality of opportunity across all aspects of College life.

We take our responsibility to eliminate all forms of inequality seriously and our Single Equality Scheme provides the framework for our commitment. The Student Executive includes an elected Member for Equality and Diversity and is active in the promotion of events and celebrations, as well as in the regular reporting of equality issues to the College Equality and Diversity Committee.

Our commitment to recognising and celebrating diversity runs through our teaching and learning, our student support and pastoral systems and our enrichment programme. We want to ensure that a disability of any kind does not prevent any student from succeeding and our study support function is directed at challenging everyone to achieve his/her potential to succeed and progress.

APPLICANTS WITH DISABILITIES OR LEARNING DIFFICULTIESThe College welcomes students with disabilities or learning difficulties and we will ensure that there is continuity and equal access to the opportunities and experiences on offer:

Via our close working relationships with our local schools and through Jane Rolfe (Senior Study Support Assistant), we will endeavour to make sure that transition from high school to NEW College will be as smooth as possible.

EQUALITY & DIVERSITY


ENRICHMENT OPPORTUNITIESFOR EVERYONE Strengthen your university

UCAS applications

At NEW College there is more to the sixth form College experience than studying for exams. We believe that students should have plenty of opportunities to access a wide range of activities to enrich the academic curriculum and at the same time develop new skills and interests.

In the competitive higher education and employment market, successful students are often the ones who have gained a broad experience and really demonstrated that they have made the most of their time at sixth form. Participation in enrichment activities will strengthen your application, whilst at the same time enhance your overall learner experience.


Competitive SportCollege sport gives students the choice to compete against other sixth form Colleges on Wednesday afternoons.

All of our sports teams are successful in their respective league structures and could also play anywhere in the county when competing in national competitions.

n Titans Rugby League Academyn Men’s rugby league (2 teams)n Women’s rugby leaguen Men’s football (3 teams)n Women’s footballn Netballn Basketballn Hockeyn Cricket

Recreational Sportsn 5-a-side football n Badminton club n Table Tennisn Volleyballn Squashn Weight training/fitnessn Snow Sportsn Swimming

Certified Awardsn Duke of Edinburgh Awardn Level 3 Award in Higher Sports

Leadershipn Level 2 Award in Community

Sports Leadershipn World Expeditionn Coaching and Teaching Academy

General Enrichmentn College productions

(Drama, Music, Dance)n Choirn New Drivers Coursen Work Experiencen College Radion College Magazinen Amnesty Internationaln Student Assemblyn Chapter Chatsn Book Clubn 6 Book Challenge


OUTSTANDING RESULTS FOR AN OUTSTANDING COLLEGE

Staff, students, parents and Governors at NEW College Pontefract are celebrating huge successes this year with the publication of exam results which are described by John Gough, Chair of Governors, as “absolutely exceptional”.

With A-Level pass rates at 99.4%, high grade rates at 51% and 28 subjects out of 34 achieving a 100% pass rate, NEW College’s performance is another endorsement of its recent Ofsted Outstanding grade. In every area results exceed all expectations and all targets, and students’ results at AS-level, which is the halfway point in the A-Level journey, are the strongest in the College’s history.

Behind the impressive headline figures lie many individual success stories. These include:

Heather Hutchinson, Adam Howard and Ashley Roberts all achieved 3 A-Levels at A*.

Emily Hutley, Marianna Mertzanis and Riannan Singh all achieved 4 A-Levels with 3 of these graded A*.

Lauren Walsh and Milena Obradovic both achieved 4 A-Levels, 2 at A and 2 at A*.

Emily Baker achieved 5 A-Levels all at Grade A.

Daniel Schab, Bethan Mills and Isabella Procter all achieved 4 A-Levels, 3 at Grade A and 1 at A*.

Emily Owen, Jade Brown, Callum Straw, Matthew Fenton and Olivia Gardner all achieved 4 A-Levels at Grade A.

George Nettleton has been awarded a place at the prestigious and competitive Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts (RADA), and Emily Hutley will take up a place at Oxford University.

NEW College’s Principal, Pauline Hagen, said “These results, coming shortly after our Outstanding Ofsted report, demonstrate that the College ranks as one of the very best, both locally and nationally. Staff here, at NEW College, work incredibly hard and set very high standards which our students respond to. Today is a day for celebration and we wish our students the very best of luck as they progress to the next stage of their lives with results of which they can feel very, very proud.”

A-LEVEL HEADLINE RESULTS 2014> 99.4% pass rate> 51% A* to B (high grades)> 78% A* to C grades> 28 out of the 34 A-Level subjects

achieved 100% pass rate

BTEC HEADLINE RESULTS 2014> 99.7% pass rate> 84% Distinctions

new college pontefract 2014/15 prospectus

Documents

performing college

present students

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examination results

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strong exam results

richard fletcher