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Glyn Derw andMichaelston 6th Form

2016/2017

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Our sixth formIn partnership with local FurtherEducation (FE) colleges, the Glyn Derwand Michaelston Federation SixthForm is committed to providing qualitypost-16 education for students acrossthe locality and surrounding area. Weuse the expertise of both FE partnersto provide purposeful education for16 -19 year olds which will give themthe necessary skills to succeed andprogress to higher education, trainingor employment. We provide a localprovision that will support and prepareall students for a successful future.

Our partner collegesOur sixth form has a successfulpartnership with both St David’sCatholic College and Cardiff andVale College. Cardiff and ValeCollege deliver our Level 3 BTECvocational programme, Level 2 GCSEequivalence courses, Level 2 WelshBaccalaureate and Level 1 VocationalStudies course. St David’s CatholicCollege deliver AS/A2 Level subjectsand Level 3 Welsh Baccalaureate. Thecourses are delivered at Michaelstonand will also utilise other facilities

to ensure that our students haveproper access to a comprehensivecurriculum.

What we expect from our sixth formstudentsExcellent behaviour, attitude andlanguage is expected at all times inboth the sixth form centre and in themain school building. We share thesixth form centre with many

With the GlynDerw and

Michaelston SixthForm you can

study courses at arange of levels –so whatever levelapplies to you we

offer a programmeof study to suityour needs and

interests.

expertise

purposeful education

successful future

Our 6th Form

professional agencies that workwithin the community as well as theChildren’s Centre. We expect you tolead by example and have a positivein uence on the younger students. Wewill not accept any poor behaviour orattitude.

EquipmentYou need to ensure that you arrive

to school every day with all thecorrect equipment for your lessons.You will need to bring a pencil case,pens, pencil, paper, folders and anyspecialist equipment as requested byyour subject teachers.

Planners and homework Planners will be provided to helpyou organise and manage your timeeffectively. Expect homework fromall lessons and you will need to keepon top of it and not miss deadlines.Independent learning and additionalstudy and reading is essential if youare to achieve your potential.

Dress codeOur sixth form students contributeto our positive image and are rolemodels for younger students. As pa rtof our commitment to high standardsand pride in our school, students areexpected to come to school in smartclothing and footwear. This enhancesour collective identity and reinforcesour educational purpose.

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7. Transferable skills: All courses in sixthform will prepare you for your futurecareer or further learning, equippingyou with the necessary skills, bothacademic and practical, to succeed.

8. Respect: All students are treatedwith respect and are expected to bemature and responsible.

9. Supported independence: Sixth formoffers learning within an independentbut structured environment that alsohelps you to develop personally andsocially.

10: increased success rate: Last year97% of A level students, 83% of thosestudying BTEC Subsidiary Diploma L3and 75% studying BTEC Certi cate L3passed their quali cation.

2. Better Prospects: Your prospectsof future training, higher educationand employment will be hugelyimproved by studying a post-16course.

3. Variety of courses: there arecourses for all students, in varioussubjects at a range of levels – fromA Levels to career-focused coursessuch as BTECs.

4. Con dence and drive: Post 16students have high aspirationsand the con dence to reach theirgoals.

5. Opportunities for universitystudy: You will increase yourchances of going to university.Indeed, many of our students havesuccessfully gone on to study atUniversity.

6. Train for the career you want: If you have your sights set onyour ideal career then sixth form

study will help you develop thequali cations and skills required forthe industry you want to work in.

1. There is a big gap betweenhigh school and the world ofwork or university study, andSixth Form can go a long way

towards bridging it.

What can I study?Post-16 studies will enable you to selectfrom a range of AS/A2 Level andvocational courses. At Level 3 you canstudy three or four AS Level courses, ora number of vocational courses whichare each equivalent to an A Level, ora combination of the two. You will alsostudy the Welsh Baccalaureate whichwill contribute much to your personaldevelopment. We also offer coursesat Level 1 and 2 depending on yourgrades.

Level 3

AS/A Level& BTECs/vocationalcourses

Level 2

CombinationProgramme (GCSEEquivalence)

Level 1

BTEC – Introductionto VocationalCourses

EntryRequirement

5 x GCSEsA-C includingEnglish & Maths

3 x GCSE D grades 1 x GCSE A-G orBTEC quali cation

Content

Choose 3 subjects& Welsh Bacc.Subject entrydependent onGCSE results

English & Maths+ 3 other subjects

Numeracy, literacy,ICT & skills basedcourse

Length2 yearsFull time

1 year Full time

1 year Full time

Progression

University,Employment,apprenticeships ortraining.

Level 3 AS/A Levels,Level 3 vocationalcourses,Employment,apprenticeships ortraining.

Level 2 Vocational& GCSE Resits,Employment,apprenticeships ortraining.

What Level is right for me?With the Glyn Derw and MichaelstonSixth Form you can study courses ata range of levels – so whatever levelapplies to you we offer a programmeof study to suit your needs andinterests. The table below providesan idea of levels and the entryrequirements needed.

How to applyAll year 11 students in the Federation will be given an application form. ApplicationForms can be requested from post16@westfed.cardiff.sch.uk, 02920 6752 00 .

10 reasons

to come to sixth form

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These Level 3 vocational courses focus on providing you with the skills andknowledge sought by employers in industry - you’ll gain practical hands onexperience as well as an in-depth understanding of your subject and theskills to succeed in the sector.

These vocational quali cations can be combined with A Levels. The tablebelow demonstrate some possible combinations that can be studied:

What can I study?The career-focused, vocational courses on the following pages are alloffered at Level 3 and can be combined with A Level courses.

Level 3 – Career-focused courses

Vocational Vocational AS level

Information Technology(CAVC)

Creative Media (CAVC) Law

Creative Media (CAVC) Art

Health and Social Care(CAVC)

CACHE – Chi ldcare MCC Sociology

Travel and Tou rism (CAVC) Pu blic Service (CAVC) R eli gi ous Education

increased successrate: Last year 83%of those studyingBTEC SubsidiaryDiploma level 3

and 75% studyingbtec Certicate

Level 3 passed theirqualications, up

on 2013/14.

Level 3 options:

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Level 3Health and Social CareAbout this courseWould you like to make a difference and start a career in the UK’s largeand varied care sector? This course gives you the opportunity to gain theknowledge, skills, experience and industry quali cations you need to startyour career. You will spend time in valuable work placements in different caresettings related to your chosen course – such as nurseries or care homes. Yourtime at college focuses on developing your knowledge in relevant topics suchas, safeguarding, and equality and diversity in the sector – taught by staff whoare industry professionals.

What next?The quali cation is idealpreparation for a Level 4Diploma in Health and SocialCare that leads to professionalregistration with the CareCouncil for Wales. It alsoprovides a good basis for adegree in Health and SocialCare when combined withother A Levels. It is also idealpreparation for direct entryinto employment. Indeed,caring is an important andrapidly growing area of workin Wales that offers a strongrange of career opportunitiesfor dedicated and well quali edprofessionals. Over 100,000people are employed in thecare sector in the Cardiff CityRegion. This is forecast to grow7% by 2020 with an increase in

jobs. UKCES, 2013

Course-speci c entry requirementsGCSE at grade C or above in English Language and a Science subject orMathematics is required.

What will I study?Year 1:• Unit 1: Developing EffectiveCommunication in Health and SocialCare• Unit 3: Health, Safety and Securityin Health and Social Care• Unit 4: Development Through theLife Stages

Year 2:• Unit 4: Development Through theLife Stages• Unit 2: Equality, Diversity and Rightsin Health and Social Care• Unit 11 - Safeguarding Adults andPromoting Independence

Level 3Information TechnologyAbout this courseIT skills are hugely valuable for employers in all sectors. Develop your knowledgeand skills in IT and Computing and open doors to a wide range of careers. TheBTEC quali cation in Information Technology will develop your knowledge andskills in a wide range of techniques used in the eld of IT work. The course is astrong foundation for a very broad range of careers in the IT industry as well as alarge number of other industries that require IT professionals to support the businesseffectively.

Course-speci c entry requirementsGCSE at grade C or above in English Language and Mathematics is required.

how to keep systems and datasecure from these threats.E-CommerceThe aim of this unit is toensure that learners knowthe technologies involved ine-commerce, understand theimpact of e-commerce onorganisations and on society,and how to plan e-commercestrategies.Spreadsheet ModellingYou’ll learn to use complexspreadsheet modelling inorder to support organisationalactivities such as credit control,sales forecasting and stockanalysis. What next?The course is an ideal steptowards direct employment in IT,an apprenticeship or to a broadrange of higher educationdegree courses when combinedwith A Levels.

What will I study?Year 1:Communication and EmployabilitySkills for IT: You’ll gain anunderstanding of both the personalattributes valued by employers andthe principles of communicatingeffectively – developing yourcommunication skills.Computer Systems: You’ll learnabout the components of computersystems and develop the skillsneeded to recommend appropriatesystems for business purposes andset up and maintain computersystems.Website Production: Get to gripswith web architecture and thefactors that affect its performance.You’ll learn to design and createinteractive websites.

Year 2:Organisational Systems SecurityLearn about potential threats to ITsystems and the organisational issuesrelated to IT security, and know

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Level 3Public ServicesAbout this courseThe BTEC quali cation in Public Services will develop knowledge and skills foremployment in a broad range of armed forces or uniformed public services. Thisincludes the army, navy and air force as well as the police force, re brigadeand ambulance service. Many of the skills developed on the course are directlytransferrable to a range of other careers.

based activity skills and yourknowledge of good practice inthe outdoors.Planning and Management ofMajor Incidents - With constantnews coverage of majorincidents of one descriptionor another in our media, it isimportant that learners wishingto pursue a career in localgovernment, aid agencywork, the NHS, the emergencyservices or armed forces haveknowledge of the work theseorganisations carry out.

What next?The quali cation is a goodpreparation for direct entry to

public service careers as wellas a range of higher educationdegree courses when combinedwith other A Levels.

Course-speci c entry requirementsGCSE at grade C or above in English Language and Mathematics is required.

What will I study?You will explore a number of topicsrelevant to a range of publicservices.

These include:Government, Policies and thePublic Services –You’ll examinegovernment policies, the legislativeprocess and the effects thatgovernment policies can have onthe public services, the personnelworking within them and theprovision of services.Land Based Activities -Land-basedoutdoor and adventurous activitiesare widely used by many providersof outdoor experiences to ful lthe needs of their programmes

and clients.These includemountain walking, rock climbing,mountaineering, caving andorienteering. You will enhance yourabilities and understanding of land-

Level 3Creative MediaAbout this courseThe BTEC quali cation in Creative Media Production will develop your skills for abroad range of careers in lm, TV and other forms of media production. Wales hasa strong and developing media production industry with both large and smallerindependent production companies, many of which are at the cutting edge of TVand lm production. The course is a step towards a career in this exciting area ofwork.

Course-speci c entry requirementsGCSE at grade C or above in English Language is required..

Units:Research techniquesThis unit will teach you to apply arange of research methods andtechniques and present yourresearch.Optional units:Music Video productionIn this exciting unit you’ll learnabout the styles, conventions,and techniques of music videos,including planning, music andproductionFilm and Video EditingTechniquesYou will gain an understandingof the development andprinciples of editing and beable to prepare moving imagematerial for editing. What next?The course is an ideal steptowards direct employmentin the media industry, anapprenticeship or to a rangeof higher education degreecourses when combined withother A Level subjects.

What will I study?Units:Pre-production techniques forcreative media productionYou will gain an understandingof the requirements for a speci cmedia production and will learnto prepare, plan and deliver pre-production documentation.Communication skills for creativemedia productionYou’ll develop the skills to be able topitch a media production proposalusing appropriate technology.

Optional units:Writing for television and videoYou’ll develop an understandingof the commissioning process forwriting for television and videoand will practice researching andproducing scripts and proposals fortelevision and video productionSingle camera techniquesUnderstand the features of singlecamera production and developthe techniques for production.

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Level 3Travel and TourismAbout this courseWould you like a career in the travel and tourism industry, with excitingopportunities to work across Wales or worldwide? The BTEC quali cation in Traveland Tourism will develop knowledge and skills for employment in a broad rangeof careers such as a travel agent, holiday representative or aircraft cabin crewmember.

The travel and tourism industry is growing rapidly in Wales leading to an excitingrange of new employment opportunities. Tourism is the UK’s 5th largest industry

and supports 3 million jobs. CAVC LMI Update, 2015.

What next?Many students go straight intoemployment in roles in hotels,events management, touristattractions and holiday resorts.Progress onto our renownedCabin Crew course and joinstudents who have gainedemployment with airlinesincluding Emirates, BritishAirways, Virgin, EasyJet andmore. Many students also goonto university to study relatedcourses including tourism, eventsmanagement and business.

Course-speci c entry requirementsGCSE at grade C or above in English Language and Mathematics is required.

What will I study?Year1Unit 1 The travel and tourism industryUnit 2 The business of Travel andTourismUnits 8 Long Haul Destinations

Year 2Units 8 Long Haul DestinationsUnit 4 Customer ServiceUnit 2 The Business of Travel & Tourism

Level 3SportAbout this courseThe BTEC Level 3 quali cation in Sport is delivered at the brand new CardiffInternational Sports Campus – the inspirational new home for CAVC Sport. Thisfacility features classrooms alongside excellent sports facilities including a largegym, tness studios, 3G pitch and athletics track.

The BTEC quali cation in Sport provides an understanding of the essential skillsand knowledge needed when looking to build a career in sport. The sport andleisure sector employs 27,000 paid employees in over 2,100 organisations across

Wales providing great opportunities and progression routes into employment forstudents.

Course-speci c entry requirementsGCSE at Grade C or above in 5 subjects including English Language and Maths isrequired for the course.

physical activity and exercise?The body has a number of systemsthat work together to allow you totake part in exercise by increasingthe oxygen and energy supply toyour muscles. In this unit you willlearn about how these body systemsrespond to exercise in both the shortand the long term.

Assessing risk in SportThe health and safety of sportsparticipants is in the spotlight morenow than it has ever been. It is moreimportant than ever to make sure allrisks are minimalized prior to sports

participation. This unit gives learnersknowledge and experience that can be used to help promote aculture of health and safety in sport.

What next?The course provides a foundationfor starting professional work in thesports industry, or progressing tofurther study.

What will I study?Anatomy and PhysiologyYou’ll learn about the human bodyand how is made up of many differentsystems that work together and allowus to take part in a huge variety ofsport and exercise activities. An athletecan go from rest to all-out sprintingin a matter of seconds, whereas anendurance athlete can continueexercising for many hours at a time.The skeletal and muscular systems worktogether to allow our bodies to performa vast range of different movements.Our cardiovascular and respiratorysystems act as a delivery service,working together to supply oxygen andnutrients to the body which in turn isused to produce energy for muscularcontraction.

Physiology of FitnessYou will have no doubt experienced theeffects of exercise on your body; yourheart beats faster and your breathingrate increases, but have you everwondered what else is happening insideyour body to allow you to perform

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CACHE Level 3 - Certicate inChild Care and EducationAbout this courseThis quali cation introduces the knowledge needed to work with children in avariety of settings and prepares you for vocational related training. It is suitablefor learners who wish to work with children and young people in a range ofsetting including nurseries and schools.

What will I study?This quali cation is a two yearprogramme. The course covers arange of relevant topics including:• an introduction to working with

children• child development from

conception to 16 years• supporting children; keeping

children safe• the principles underpinning the

role of the practitioner working withchildren.

You may also have the opportunityfor a placement in a related settingas part of the Experience in the

workplace module.

What Next?This quali cation can lead tofurther training opportunities,including the CACHE Level 3Diploma in Children’s Care,Learning and Development andthe CACHE Level 3 ExtendedDiploma in Children’s Care,Learning and Development.

Welsh Baccalaureate- Level 3About this courseThe central focus of the Welsh Baccalaureate at Advanced level is to developessential and employability skills. You will develop more complex skills, attributesand behaviours and will undertake experiences which will help prepare you foryour future, whether that involves university, further training or employment.

The emphasis in the Welsh Baccalaureate is on applied learning i.e. acquiring andapplying a range of transferable skills.

What next?Whatever your plan for thefuture, Welsh Baccalaureatewill help you develop anddemonstrate an understandingof and pro ciency in essentialand employability skills. Theseare the skills are highly valuedby employers and further andhigher education institutionsalike. These include: LiteracyPersonal Effectiveness,Numeracy Creativity andInnovation, Digital LiteracyPlanning and OrganisationCritical Thinking and ProblemSolving.

What will I study?Through a number of skillsprogrammes and challenges, theWelsh Baccalaureate will encourageyou to value skills development asa key aspect of education and life-long learning. Offering a learningexperience relevant to the needsand demands of the workplace.You’ll develop your con dence,drive and initiative, preparing you toenter, succeed and progress in theworld of work. This can involve bothgroup and individual projects. Youwill have regular tutorial support andmentoring and will be allocated aLearner Coach for support and one-to-ones.

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AS/A2ArtAbout this courseYou will develop your practical art skills alongside your understanding oftheory at AS level, where you’ll explore a range of practices and contextsin the visual arts, crafts and design elds, culminating in greater specialismand achievement at A Level. You will develop a range of skills both creativeand analytical and will learn how to communicate your own creative ideas,intentions and personal outcomes. You will experience working with a broad

range of media as well as developing your knowledge of the creativeindustries. This subject combines well with many other subjects, however, it isrecommended that no more than one practically-based subject is studiedalongside Art as the work-load may be excessive.

AS/A2 BiologyAbout this courseThe WJEC Biology AS course offers a good balance of traditional Biology andmore modern topics. Building on topics studied at GCSE it provides a rmgrounding in the subject as well as developing your practical skills.

The A2 course provides an in-depth exploration of the key areas ofphysiology and biological theory. You will improve your practical skills throughexperimental work and a residential eld trip.

Course-speci c entry requirementsArt and Design at grade C or above and the necessary aptitude andcommitment to Art and Design. A grade C or above in D&T or Textiles will beaccepted, subject to discussion, and in exceptional cases, students mightbe accepted without the minimum quali cation on production of a suitableportfolio of work. There is some written work so the a bility to communicate inwritten English is important.

What next?Students may progress to HigherEducation within the eld of Artand Design.

Past students have gone ondirectly to degree or HNDcourses in history of art, graphicdesign, ne art, fashion andtextiles or art history. However,the majority take a FoundationStudies course before applyingfor degree courses.

What will I study?The course encourages you todevelop intellectual, imaginative,creative and intuitive capabilities.You’ll develop analytical,experimental, practical, technicaland expressive skills, aestheticunderstanding and critical

judgement. The AS course isassessed through a courseworkportfolio. The A2 quali cationconsists of a further two modules – astudent-devised coursework unit anda nal practical examination.

What will I study?AS Level (year 1) Unit 1: Basic Biochemistry and CellOrganisation: this unit covers topicsincluding cell structure and function,structure and replication of DNA,biological molecules, and cellmembranes.Unit 2: Biodiversity and Physiology ofBody Systems: i n this unit you’ll explorecell differentiation, transport in plantsand animals, the digestion system,variation, biodiversity, classi cationand evolution, and animal behaviour.

A Level (year 2)Unit 3: Energy, Homeostasis andthe Environment: This unit covers

respiration and photosynthesis, energytransfer and food production, andregulation of internal environmentsincluding blood sugar andtemperature regulation.

Unit 4: Variation, Inheritance,and Food Science: you’ll explorevariation, selection, geneticinheritance, gene expression andgene cloning, digestion, and diet.

Unit 5: Investigative and PracticalSkills in A2 Biology: This includesan externally marked laboratory-based exam.

What next?The full A Level in Biology providesa solid basis for students who wishto proceed to Higher Education tostudy biology, medicine, veterinaryscience and other scienti ccareers. It is also a route to nursing,

teaching, physiotherapy andlaboratory based work, as well aslinking directly with environmentalscience and sustainability.

Course-speci c entry requirementsStudents need to have achieved at least a grade BB at Double Award GCSEScience (higher tier) and have at least a grade C in Mathematics.

AS and A Level courses:These courses can be studied as a combination with Level 3 vocational coursesif you choose.

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AS/A2Business StudiesAbout this courseYou will develop a critical understanding of organisations and their abilityto meet society’s needs and wants and will learn about enterprising andcreative approaches to business opportunities, problems and issues. You’llalso gain an understanding of the ethical dilemmas and responsibilities facedby organisations and individuals.

Learners need to develop

analytical skills to investigatebusiness opportunities andproblems in a number of differentcontexts and evaluate a rangeof quantitative and qualitativedata to suggest possible strategicresponses from businesses.Unit 4: Business in a Changing WorldThis unit focuses on how businessesadapt to succeed in a dynamicexternal environment. You willlearn that the business world neverstands still and there are continuousopportunities and threats tobusinesses of all sizes. Regardless ofsize, businesses now operate in aglobal marketplace and studentsneed to consider a wide range ofexternal factors that affect theirday-to-day activities, decision-making and strategy.

What next?The full A Level in Business providesthe basis for students who wish toproceed to Higher Education tostudy law, business management,marketing, accountancy, nance,and banking.

Course-speci c entry requirementsGCSE Mathematics and English grade A*-C.

What will I study?

AS Level (year 1)Unit 1: Business Opportunities This unit focuses on new businessstart-ups, and small and medium sizedenterprises (SMEs). The content in thissection is based around the concept ofstarting a new business and the issuesthat surround the process of planning anew business.Unit 2: Business FunctionsThis unit broadens the context forlearners and will include all types ofbusiness organisations, ranging fromrecently formed small businessesto well-established multinationalcompanies. Learners need tounderstand that, in order to succeedin a competitive market, all businesseshave to consider the core functions ofbusiness.Learners will study the following contentareas: marketing, nance, people inorganisations (human resources), andoperations management.

A2 Level (year 2)Unit 3: Business Analysis and Strategy The emphasis in this unit is onunderstanding and using analyticaltechniques and developingappropriate business strategies.

AS/A2ChemistryAbout this courseChemistry plays a huge part in every aspect of our lives, from the medicines weuse to keep us healthy to the fertilisers used on the land to maximise crop yields.Most subjects can be successfully studied alongside Chemistry as it develops arange of skills which are valuable for any future career.

What will I study?AS Level (year 1) Unit 1: balanced chemical reactionsare investigated as well as energychanges that take place duringreactions and the factors that affectthe speed and potential success ofa reaction.Unit 2: Forces within and betweenmolecules are examined alongwith the many different shapes thatmolecules can exhibit. This modulealso introduces organic (carbon)chemistry and spectroscopy.Unit 3: Two internally set andexternally marked practicalassessments complete this module.

A2 Level (year 2)Unit 4: This module explores a

wide range of classes of organicchemicals and their characteristicreactions, as well as methods ofanalysis and properties peculiar tocertain organic species.Unit 5: This unit covers the periodictable in detail; the creation of

electric potentials between

two different atoms; energychanges that occur duringreactions; and the way in whichexperimental results can lead todetailed determination of theprocesses that take place duringa reaction.Unit 6: Two internally set andexternally marked practicalassessments are completedduring the year. What next?For those wishing to pursue acareer in medicine, veterinaryscience and many otherscienti c careers, a rm grasp ofChemistry is essential for furtherstudy at Higher Education level.

Chemistry also provides youwith transferrable skills valuedin any career. The range ofcareers open to chemists is vastand con rms the high regard inwhich someone with such an all-round set of skills is held.

Course-speci c entry requirementsGrade C or above in GCSE Mathematics (higher tier)Grade B or above in Core Science AND Additional Science, OR grade C inhigher tier Chemistry.

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AS/A2 Computer ScienceAbout this courseComputer Science relies on an understanding of the rules of speci clanguages at a fundamental level and requires logical thinking, problemsolving skills, and creative thinking. Computer Science also encourages anawareness of the management and organisation of computer systems,extending your horizons beyond the school or college environment in theappreciation of the effects of computer science on society and individuals.

What will I study?AS Level (year 1) Unit 1: Fundamentals of ComputerScience You’ll investigate computerarchitecture, communication, datarepresentation, data structures,software applications, programs,algorithms, logic, programmingmethodologies, and the impact ofcomputer science on society.Unit 2: Practical Programming to SolveProblems This unit consists of a series of set taskscompleted onscreen. These tasks willrequire the use of Visual Basic.NET,Python or Java as a programminglanguage.

A Level (year 2)Unit 3: Programming and SystemDevelopment You’ll investigate programs,data structure, algorithms, logic,programming methodologies andthe impact of computer science onsociety.Unit 4: Computer Architecture, Data,Communication and Applications This unit investigates computer

architecture, communication,data representation, organisationand the structure of data,programs, algorithms, and softwareapplications.Unit 5: Programmed Solution to aProblem Students investigate, design,prototype, test and evaluate acomputerised solution to a problemchosen by you, which must besolved using original code.

What next?This course provides an excellentfoundation for progression to higherlevel quali cations in a wide rangeof subjects as it gives students theopportunity to develop essential

cross-curricular skills such a teamworking, problem solving skills andlogical thinking. Careers directlyrelated to Computing wouldrequire further study in the eld butwould include Software Engineer,Programmer, Systems Analyst,Systems Development Engineerand Computer Technician.

Course-speci c entry requirementsGrade B or above at GCSE Mathematics. A GCSE in Computer Science wouldbe advantageous but not essential.

AS/A2EconomicsAbout this courseYou will develop an understanding of the wider economic and socialenvironment, and will learn to use an enquiring, critical and thoughtfulapproach to the study of economics. You’ll develop your analytical andquantitative skills, together with qualities and attitudes which will equip youfor the challenges, opportunities and responsibilities of the future.

Course-speci c entry requirementsGCSE English and Mathematics grade A*-C.

models applied to a widerrange of local, national andinternational contexts, includingdata which relates to the Welsheconomy.

Learners will be requiredto develop a more criticalapproach to the evaluation ofeconomic models and currenteconomic problems.

What next?The full A Level in Economicsprovides the basis for studentswho wish to proceed to HigherEducation to study law, businessmanagement, marketing,accountancy, nance and

banking.

What will I study?AS Level (year 1)Unit 1: Introduction to EconomicPrinciplesUnit 2: Economics in ActionAt AS level you’ll be introduced tohow markets and the economy worke.g the key concepts of demandand supply in both individualmarkets (microeconomics) and thewhole economy (macroeconomics).

You’ll develop a criticalunderstanding of economics issuesand explore current economicbehaviour, drawing upon data fromlocal, national and internationalsources.

A2 Level (year 2)Unit 3: Exploring Economic BehaviourUnit 4: Evaluating Economic Modelsand PoliciesLearners will be expected to usemore complex micro and macro

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AS/A2 English Languageand LiteratureAbout this courseEnglish Language and Literature requires students to identify and considerthe ways in which attitudes and values are created and conveyed in speechand writing. The focus of study will be the interpretation of written and spokenlanguage, to include poetry, prose and drama as well as a range of non-literarytexts. There will also be opportunities for original writing. The literature side isdedicated to poetry and prose in the rst year and drama in the second. Possibletexts include a poetry anthology and Shakespeare alongside contemporaryauthors and dramatists.

What will I study?AS Level (year 1) Unit 1: Comparative Analysis andCreative WritingThis unit examines your abilities to exploreconnections across a wide range oftexts. It encourages extensive widerreading and provides opportunities toselect appropriate methods of analysiswhen exploring non-literary texts.Unit 2: Drama and Non-literary Text Study You will engage critically with the settext and explore the richness of theEnglish language. In responding to non-literary texts, learners should be able torecognise the bias, the moral outlook,the prejudices, attitudes and values ofspeakers and writers and to be ableto analyse how these are conveyedthrough the use of language.

A2 Level (year 2)Unit 3: ShakespeareYou will engage critically with the t ext asa work of literature and will also explorethe richness of the English language andits historical development set within thecontext of when the text was produced

and received.Unit 4: Unseen Text and Prose Study You’ll develop your ability to readwidely and engage critically witha range of texts whilst developingfurther techniques of analysis andevaluation.Unit 5: Coursework This unit gives opportunities toindependently select an aspect ofprose study that interests you andto study one text within that genre.In addition, learners are given theopportunity to select wider reading toinform your studies in this unit and tore ect on the learning that has takenplace.

What next?A Level English is a pivotal subjectwhich means that most subjectsgo well with it. Therefore, manycareers are open to the Englishstudent. However, the most obviousprofessions are law, journalism,teaching, administration, civil service,banking, the media and creativeindustries.

Course-speci c entry requirementsGCSE English grade A*-C.

AS/A2English LiteratureAbout this courseAs a literature student you will be encouraged to actively engage with a rangeof literary genres from poetry to prose and drama. You will focus upon the wayin which structure, form, and language shape meaning as well as draw stylisticand thematic parallels between texts. There is also a signi cant opportunity fororiginal writing.

Core text authors include: Charlotte Bronte, Christopher Marlowe, Philip Larkin,Carol Ann Duffy, Shakespeare, Geoffrey Chaucer, and William Blake.

Course-speci c entry requirementsGCSE English grade B or above.

Unit 4: ShakespeareStudents will be asked todemonstrate their knowledgeand understanding of theirchosen play, based on anextract from it. Students will thenbe required to demonstrate theirwider knowledge and of theplay as a whole.Unit 5: Coursework, Prose StudyThis unit is internally assessed andexternally moderated. It requireslearners to submit an assignmentbased on the reading of twoprose texts by different authors,one published pre-2000 and theother published post-2000.

What next?A Level English Literature isa Russell Group ‘facilitatingsubject’. Many careers are opento English students. However,the most obvious professionsare law, journalism, teaching,administration, civil service, themedia and creative industries.

What will I study?AS Level (year 1)Unit 1: Prose and Drama This section requires students torespond critically and creatively to aprose text and to a drama text. Youwill be expected to communicate

uently, accurately and effectivelyyour knowledge, understanding and

judgement of texts.Unit 2: Poetry Post-1900You will be required to read twopaired poetry texts. You will then beasked to critically analyse one of thepoems, and then to compare thetwo.

A2 Units (year 2)Unit 3: Poetry Pre-1900 and UnseenPoetryStudents will be assessed on theirknowledge and understandingof an extract from the text, andon their wider knowledge andunderstanding of the text as awhole.

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AS/A2GeographyAbout this courseGeography will enable you to explore a number of issues which are ofcontemporary national and global importance. The course allows studentsto extend and develop their knowledge of a range of physical and humanenvironments at a variety of scales and levels of development.

You’ll delve into topics such as global warming, plate tectonics, hydrologicalsystems, population and settlement change, and much more.

What will I study?AS Level (year 1) Unit 1: Changing PhysicalEnvironments: Students will studyclimate change and investigatehydrological and tectonic change.Unit 2: Changing HumanEnvironments: Students willinvestigate both population andsettlement change in this part of thecourse.

A2 Level (year 2)Unit 3: Contemporary Themes andResearch in Geography: Studentswill investigate the management ofcoastal landforms and the issue of

development.Unit 4: SustainabilityStudents will investigate globalfood and water supplies, the notionof sustainable cities as well asconsidering sustainable forms ofenergy.

What next?This course provides a rmbasis for any f urther study ingeography and a pathway toa geographical career. Due tothe broad nature of the subject,it combines well with bothscience and arts subjects tolead to university courses in suchareas as journalism, teaching,surveying, accountancy andplanning.

Students who choose not togo into Higher Education willhave developed a range oftransferable skills that allow

them to explore a wide range ofemployment opportunities.

Course-speci c entry requirementsGrade C or above in GCSE Mathematics is recommended.

AS/A2History (Modern)About this courseModern History takes a period of upheaval in European society and providesyou with the opportunity to develop a coherent understanding of the past. Thecourse develops an understanding of three key areas: a study of social changein England and Wales (c.1880-1980); The French Revolution (c.1774-1815); andPolitics and Society in Germany (c.1881-1989).

Course-speci c entry requirementsGrade C or above in History (if taken), or a grade C or above in English.

Unit 4: France in Revolutionc.1774-1815You will continue your studyof the French Revolution, thistime covering the period 1792to 1815. You will also gain aninsight into the mass executionsof monarchy and aristocracy,rise of Napoleon, and the warshe led.Unit 5: Non-ExaminationAssessmentYou will complete a 4,000 wordinvestigation.

What next?History is an excellent basis forstudents who wish to proceedto Higher Education, and is oneof the recognised ‘facilitatingsubjects’ that will help studentsgain access to top Russell groupuniversities. A traditional andhighly regarded quali cation, itgives learners high-level skills andworks well with most subjects. Thiscourse is particularly bene cialfor those wishing to continueinto history, law, journalism,archaeology, education, orpolitics.

What will I study?AS Level (year 1)Unit 1: Politics, People, and Progressin Wales and England c.1880-1980Focused on the Twentieth Century,you will study the development ofthe Labour and Liberal governments,unemployment in the 1920s, votesfor women, and the impact of waron England and Wales.Unit 2: France in Revolution c.1774-1815Learn about the French Revolutionand starting with the late EarlyModern period, you will researchFrench society, covering theStorming of the Bastille, thegrowth of Republicanism, and theoverthrow of the monarchy.

A2 Units (year 2)Unit 3: Changing Leadership andSociety in Germany c.1871-1989You will cover a century of Germanhistory. Key gures such as Bismarckand Hitler will be studied, whilst thecontent ranges from the Uni cationof Germany to hyperin ation, to thefall of the Berlin Wall.

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AS/A2LawAbout this courseAS Law divides into two areas both focusing on the English legal system. Itrequires students to look at the development, application, courts, proceduresand personnel within the legal system. At A2 the focus of the course is humanrights.

What will I study?AS Level (year 1) Unit 1: Understanding LegalStructures and Processes:You will explore the developmentof the modern legal system, humanrights and morality, criminal andcivil processes, legal aid and theinstitutions of the EU.Unit 2: Understanding LegalReasoning, Personnel and Methods:You will look at how the law workswithin the court system and how thelaw is reformed and at the personnelwho work in the courts.

A2 Level (year 2)Unit 3: Freedom of the Individual: This module looks at freedom of theperson.

Unit 4: Protection of Human Rights: The second module looks at theprotection of civil rights and liberties,

protection of privacy, freedomof expression and freedom fromdiscrimination.

What next?Students wishing to studyLaw at university will not bedisadvantaged by studying ALevel Law. The course helpsthem prepare for the LNat testand develops students’ legalskills.

Law has links with Politics; italso develops analytical andevaluative written skills whichsupport a number of otherstudies including English andHistory.

Course-speci c entry requirementsGCSE grade A*-C in at least one analytical subject (e.g. English, History orReligious Studies) is recommended.

AS/A2MathematicsAbout this courseThe emphasis of the course is on using and applying Mathematics. At AS Levelyou will develop abilities to reason logically, and to understand the relationshipbetween ‘real world’ problems and mathematical models. At A2 you will furtherdevelop your range of mathematical skills and techniques and use them inmore dif cult unstructured problems. You’ll start to appreciate the relevanceof Mathematics to other elds of study, to the world of work, and to society ingeneral.

Course-speci c entry requirementsGrade B or above in GCSE Mathematics.

What next?Mathematics provides a usefulroute into many careers. Theability to think logically andbe able to solve problemsare highly valued skills in theworkplace. Mathematics is nowa requirement for a number ofuniversity courses and is also anadvantage for many subjectsincluding: actuarial work andinsurance; economics andbusiness; management, nance,and accountancy; computerscience and ICT; medicine,dentistry, and pharmacy;genetic engineering andphysics; social sciences; and law.

What will I study?AS Level (year 1)Core 1: Algebra, coordinategeometry, differentiation.Core 2: Integration, sequences andseries, trigonometry, exponentialsand logarithms.Mechanics 1: Kinematics, forces,momentum, moments and lamina.There is no coursework.Core 3: Differentiation, integration,trigonometry and functions.Core 4: Vectors, differential,equations, further integration andtrigonometry.Statistics 1: Discrete randomvariables, probability, binomialdistribution, poisson distribution,continuous random variables.

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AS/A2Religious StudiesAbout this courseReligious Studies considers eternal human questions such as personal identity ina changing world, the meaning of life and death, and considers the prospect oflife continuing beyond the grave. Linked to these are questions of morality andethics which look at how we should live and how we respond to dilemmas ofright and wrong action.

What will I study?AS Level (year 1) Unit 1: Introduction to Religion andEthics This unit has four main areas: naturallaw, situation ethics, utilitarianism,and applied ethics. As the unit isexamined in January the focusof the rst term is given over topreparing students for this exam.Unit 2: Introduction to Philosophy ofReligionThis unit also has four main areas:two classical arguments for theexistence of God, the problemof evil and suffering, and religiousexperience.

A2 Level (year 2)Unit 3: Studies in Philosophy ofReligion The topics covered are faith andreason, religious language, religionand science, and freedom anddeterminism.

Unit 4: Religion and HumanExperienceThis unit provides students withthe opportunity to make aholistic study on one speci edtheme. What next?Undertaking Religious Studieswill enable you to develop skillsincluding: analysis of ideas,critical judgement, research,reading and interpretationof texts, discussion anddebate of controversial ideasand an appreciation andrespect for other viewpoints.Religious Studies is bene cialif you’re thinking aboutstudying for a degree in anumber of subjects including:archaeology, philosophy,history, law, medicine, sociology,psychology, social sciences,education, literature andgeneral arts.

Course-speci c entry requirementsGood written communication skills are most important with a grade C or higherin English highly desirable.

AS/A2 PsychologyAbout this coursePsychology is the study of human and animal behaviour and psychologistsstudy behaviour through experiments and observations of visible actions.Psychologists also consider hidden internal mental processes and try toexplain the inner workings of the mind. There are various approaches toPsychology to explain behaviour and during the course you will explorethese in more depth. Students will also study research methods and developexisting numeracy skills through statistical analysis and data interpretation.

Course-speci c entry requirements At least one grade B in GCSE Science and grade C in GCSE Mathematics arerequired. Grade C or above in GCSE English is recommended.

Criminal, Schizophrenia, andStress. You will also studysix controversial issues inPsychology.Unit 4: Psychology – AppliedResearch Methods: Thisunit further develops yourunderstanding of researchmethods studied at AS, includingthe practical application of tworesearch methods to class basedPsychological research studies.

What next?The study of Psychology atA Level is useful for a diverserange of university courses

and careers including: clinicalpsychologist, forensic andcriminal psychology, counselling,mental health nursing, lecturerin Psychology, social worker andeducational psychology.

What will I study?AS Level (year 1)Unit 1: Psychology – Past to Present:This unit introduces ve mainpsychological approaches includingBiological, Behaviourist, Cognitive,Psychodynamic and PositivePsychology.Unit 2: Psychology – InvestigatingBehaviour: This unit introducespsychological researchmethods including participantselection, conducting safe andethical research, and design ofpsychological research studies. Thisunit also covers statistical analysis.

A2 Level (year 2)Unit 3: Psychology – Implicationsin the Real World: You’ll beexpected to apply knowledge andunderstanding from Unit 1 to threehuman / animal behaviours fromthe following: Addictive, Autisticspectrum, Bullying behaviours,

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AS/A2SociologyAbout this courseSociology is a stimulating and dynamic subject. You will study individuals withina social setting, which includes groups, organisations, cultures and societies’and the interrelationships between them.

You’ll explore social institutions such as the family, education, law, politics, themedia, and religion. Pupils will study how we acquire our culture and how socialstructures affect individuals. You will also examine the nature of power andsocial control, and social divisions.

Course-speci c entry requirementsGCSE English grade C or above is recommended.

A2 Level (year 2)Unit 3: Social Control –Understanding Crime You’ll examine sociologicalexplanations of crime, agents ofsocial control, and the role of themedia in such things as moralpanics.Unit 4: Applied ResearchMethods and Social DivisionsYou’ll be required to applyknowledge of sociologicalmethods and will also studysocial inequality.

What next?Sociology is useful for a range ofuniversity courses and careersincluding: community work,housing management, teaching,personnel management, policeforce, probation service, publicsector administration, socialwork, and welfare advice work.

What will I study?AS Level (year 1)Unit 1: Families and Culture This unit focuses on the role of thefamily and how we learn to bemembers of society. It includesde ning the family, exploringrelationships within the family andissues such as diversity, gender roles,marriage and divorce.Unit 2: Research Methods andEducationYou’ll explore the nature andpractice of social enquiry andthe various methods employedby sociologists in their research.De nitions of educationalterminology, patterns and trendsregarding the achievements ofdifferent social groups by class,gender, ethnicity and locality, andsociological explanations of thesetrends are also examined.

AS/A2 Welsh Second LanguageAbout this courseYou will develop your skills in both written and spoken Welsh and you’ll also havethe opportunity to write creatively, read independently, respond to differenttexts and appreciate literary forms. During the course, students will have theopportunity to practise speaking Welsh with the class teacher, and other Welshstudents. There may be an opportunity to visit Nant Gwrtheyrn, the NationalLanguage Centre in North Wales. Learners will also be given the chance toparticipate in extracurricular activities, e.g. Eisteddfodau.

What will I study?AS Level (year 1) Unit 1: Oral Welsh – You will learnabout a range of topics including:contemporary multi-media culturein Wales, the lm Hedd Wyn andthemes arising from the lm.Unit 2: Written coursework, internalassessmentStudents will be asked to puttogether a project of between 2,000and 3,000 words, containing at leastfour extended pieces in differentformats.Unit 3: Use of Language and Poetry

A2 Level (year 2)

Unit 4: Drama and OracyCandidates will be questioned onthe following, in groups of three:• a discussion of the contemporarymulti-media culture in Wales,• the play Siwan ,• a discussion of the links betweendifferent aspects of Welsh by

combining and co-ordinatingthe knowledge, understandingand skills developed in thesubject.Unit 5: Short Story and PurposefulConcurrent Use of LanguageUnit 6: Use of Language andAppreciation of Poetry What next?Welsh is spoken by nearly 30%of the population of Wales. It isa modern living language thatis used on a daily basis in manyvocations, including business,local government, the media,tourism, journalism, marketing,

and politics.

Course-speci c entry requirementsGCSE Welsh (2nd Language) at grade B or above.

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AS/A2PhysicsAbout this courseAt AS Level you will combine the best of the ‘traditional’ Physics topics (such asmechanics, materials, current electricity and radiation) with the most modern ofideas involving quantum and particle Physics.

The A2 course allows for some student choice, whilst at the same time includingthe essential topics of elds, nuclear physics, and kinetic theory.

Course-speci c entry requirementsEither GCSE Physics (higher tier) grade C or above, or GCSE Science grade B andGCSE Additional Science grade B or above. English Language C (higher tier) orabove, and Mathematics grade B or above is required.

Unit 6: Investigative and PracticalSkills in A2 Physics: Centre-assessed unit containing apractical skills assessment andan investigative skills assessmentcompleted in College.

What next?If you wish to go on to Universityto study Physics, Engineering,Materials Science, Geophysics,Medicine, Veterinary Scienceand other scienti c careers thenan A Level in Physics provides agreat basis for this progression.Physics is regarded very highlyas a quali cation by employersand Higher Education institutions

alike.

What will I study?AS Level (year 1)Unit 1: Particles, QuantumPhenomena and ElectricityUnit 2: Mechanics, Materials &WavesUnit 3: Investigative and PracticalSkills in AS Physics: Centre-assessedunit containing a practical skillsassessment and an investigative skillsassessment completed in College.

A2 Level (year 2)Unit 4: Fields and Further MechanicsUnit 5: Nuclear and Thermal PhysicsOptional Topic - Applied Physics,Medical Physics, Astrophysics orTurning Points in Physics

BTEC Extended Certicate in Applied ScienceAbout this courseThis is a brand new two year course. You can choose to study the ExtendedCerti cate (one A Level equivalent) or the Diploma (two A Level equivalent).

After the rst year, students gain a Certi cate (equivalent to one AS Level). This is a‘stand alone’ quali cation which then progresses onto the second year in order to

gain the Extended Certi cate (one A Level equivalent).

Course-speci c entry requirementsCore Science, Mathematics and English at grades A*-C.

1 and 2 as well as in carryingout scienti c investigations.You’ll cover plants and theenvironment, enzymes, themovement of molecules, theenergy content of fuels, andelectrical circuits, in additionto their skills in carrying out ascienti c investigation.Plus an optional unit

What next?This quali cation is designedto support progression tofurther study at university,employment, or apprenticeship.It will give successful studentsthe transferable knowledge,understanding and skills thatwill be an advantage whenapplying for a range of industry-linked training programmes orapprenticeships in the AppliedScience sector, or other sectors.

What will I study?Year 1 (BTEC Certi cate)Unit 1: Principles and Applications ofScienceThis unit allows learners to developtheir knowledge and understandingof core concepts in Biology,Chemistry and Physics, whichprovide a strong basis for anyonewanting to progress in any science-related career.Unit 2: Practical Scienti c Proceduresand TechniquesYou will develop practical skills incore laboratory techniques and willhave the opportunity to becomepro cient in carrying out titrations,colorimetry, calorimetry, and thinlayer chromatography.

Year 2 (BTEC Extended Certi cate)Unit 3: Scienti c Investigation SkillsYou will build upon your scienceskills and knowledge from Units

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Level 2 – Combination ProgrammeAbout this courseYou will study a combination of vocational courses as well as Maths and English.Literacy and numeracy is an important part of this programme and you will improveyour English and Maths at GCSE level as part of the course to enable you to reachyour best possible grade. You will also study BTEC Level 2 vocational subjects listedbelow. These offer a wide variety of career-focused courses at Level 2 which willprepare you for future study or employment. This programme provides you with aquali cation equivalent to 5 GCSEs .

What will I study?English GCSE/English GCSE ResitMaths GCSE/Maths GCSE resitWelsh Baccalaureate – post 16 levelThe Welsh Baccalaureate aimsto enable you to develop youressential and employability skills.These are the skills that employers,Colleges and Universities value andwhich learners need for learning,work and life.

The Welsh Baccalaureate helps youachieve more, it makes you betterequipped for the world of work,better informed and a more activecitizen. It allows for more exibility in

your studies, whatever mix of coursesyou choose.

Health and Social Care Level 2BTEC First AwardOver 100,000 people are employedin the care sector in the CardiffCity Region. This is forecast to grow7% by 2020 with an increase in

jobs. UKCES, 2013. The health andsocial care course gives you theopportunity to gain the knowledge,skills, experience and industryquali cations you need to startyour career or progress to furtherlearning.

Creative Media Level 2Level 2 First Award in CreativeDigital Media ProductionYou will gain an understanding ofdigital media sectors, productsand platforms and will understandaudiences for digital mediaproducts. You’ll also explore howaudiences engage with digitalmedia products.

You’ll explore planning and pitchingfor a digital media product lookingat how to develop ideas. Youcan also study the key features ofmoving image productions whereyou’ll gain an understanding of

the technical construction of adigital moving image productionand will review a production. You’lllearn about digital publishingopportunities, digital publishingtechnology and techniques andhow to produce material for digitalpublication.

What next?The Level 2 Foundation programmegives you a wide variety ofexperience and skills and will enableyou to progress to further learning inan area that interests you at Level 3at school or in College. You will also

have improved skills and a widevariety of vocational learning tosupport you in the future in theworld of work.

This level 2 programme providesyou with a combination ofvocational, career- focusedcourses alongside improvingyour Maths and English at GCSElevel. It is equivalent to 5 GCSEs.

You will focus on developingyour knowledge in relevanttopics such as:• Human Development• Health and Social Care Values• Equality and Diversity in Healthand Social Care• Individual Rights in Health andSocial Care

Business Level 2BTEC First award in Business Level1/2You’ll learn all about the term‘business’ and how it can coveranything from a sole trader in alocal market to a multinational

corporation selling products tomillions of people all over theworld. You’ll be introduced tothe language and terminologyused in business and will explorewhat businesses do, trends thataffect them, how they operateand the factors that in uencetheir success. You’ll also explore

nance for business the types ofcosts that businesses incur andhow they make a pro t. Thecourse examines what makessuccessful businesses and howthis is measured.

Level 2 options:

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