rainhill sixth form centre prospectus 2013

Prospectus 2013

TOGETHER WEACHIEVE

Prospectus Artwork:Rainhill 6th 03/09/2012 11:52

Enrichment and enhancementopportunitiesinclude:

All courses are taught by experienced teachers in specialist areas, including a Dance Studio, Theatre, Recording Studio and Radio room

All students will be entitled to access the work of professional artists through trips, visits and workshops inschool

All students will be entitled to participate in the opportunities offered through our unique partnerships with LIPA and St Helens College, including LIPA 4:19, weekend and holiday courses, master classes and support with applications

All students will be given the opportunity to supplement their studies and gain more UCAS points by studying the following courses:-

Dance: ISTD Elementary and Advanced 1 and 2 in a range ofstyles

Drama: LAMDA Elementary and Advanced 1 and 2 courses

All musicians will be provided with ongoing peripatetic support for a range of instruments

All students will have access to rehearsal/workshop space to develop independent work

All students will be provided with at least one opportunity each term to perform or exhibit in front of anaudience

All students will receive information about the creative industries in the North West and will be entitled to support and guidance on career choices and job opportunities

All students will be offered support with applications to Arts courses and support with preparing for auditions

We offer a variety of creative enrichment and enhancement tothe traditional Post-16 Arts curriculum. We aim to be a centreof excellence for arts provision in St. Helens and to provideour students with experiences to aid their progression into artbased careers or university. Students are able to opt to studythe arts solely or to combine an arts option with othersubjects.

What Does This Mean For You?

It means that if you chose to study one or more Art subjects,such as: Theatre Studies, Acting, Dance, Art Graphics, Fine Art,Photography, Media Production or Music Technology you willautomatically become a member of:

The Arts Academy

and entitled to access a range of creative opportunities to helpdevelop you as an artist and designer.

Why Is This Important?

We are committed in helping to assist you to develop andgain complementary life skills alongside obtaining excellentqualifications within the Arts which employers and universitieswill look favourably on.

Who Makes This Possible?

The help and support for enrichment opportunities at The ArtsAcademy is brought to you in association through

our partnerships and contacts with

leading industry professionals. Collectively through theirexpertise and guidance alongside the specialist teaching asyou progress and develop with us, we believe that The ArtsAcademy at Rainhill Sixth Form Centre will be motivational,inspirational and offer a unique experience for you.

contentsContents

s academythe arts academy

THE ARTS ACADEMY 3 HUMANITIES63yhpargoeGSTRA

Theatre Studies 4 History 37Acting 5 Government and Politics 38Dance 6-7 Psychology 39Fine Art and Art Textiles 8-9 Sociology 40-41Art Graphics 10 Religious Studies 42Photography 11Media Production 12 BUSINESS AND ICTMusic Technology 13 Business Studies 43-44

Travel and Tourism 45DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY 64waLHealth and Social Care 14 Economics 47

84TCI51selitxeT - ngiseD tcudorP

SCITAMEHTAMSEGAUGNALFrench 16-17 Mathematics / Further Mathematics 49German 16-17Spanish 16-17 HE SCIENCE ACADEMY 50English Language 18-19 Applied Science 51English Literature 18-19 Physics 52

Chemistry 53SPORT Biology 53Sport 20

THE PLACE AND PATHWAYSYour Passion, Our Passion 21Guidance and Support 23The Sixth Form Environment 24Courses and Programmes of Learning 25Entry Requirements 26Seeing the Bigger Picture 27Application Form 29-30What happens next? 31Exploration and Enrichment 32-33Career Pathway Subject Choices 34Making Contact 35

2 3

the ar

ts ac

The Arts Academy

Contents

The Arts Academy


Enrichment and enhancementopportunitiesinclude:

All courses are taught by experienced teachers in specialist areas, including a Dance Studio, Theatre, Recording Studio and Radio room

All students will be entitled to access the work of professional artists through trips, visits and workshops inschool

All students will be entitled to participate in the opportunities offered through our unique partnerships with LIPA and St Helens College, including LIPA 4:19, weekend and holiday courses, master classes and support with applications

All students will be given the opportunity to supplement their studies and gain more UCAS points by studying the following courses:-

Dance: ISTD Elementary and Advanced 1 and 2 in a range ofstyles

Drama: LAMDA Elementary and Advanced 1 and 2 courses

All musicians will be provided with ongoing peripatetic support for a range of instruments

All students will have access to rehearsal/workshop space to develop independent work

All students will be provided with at least one opportunity each term to perform or exhibit in front of anaudience

All students will receive information about the creative industries in the North West and will be entitled to support and guidance on career choices and job opportunities

All students will be offered support with applications to Arts courses and support with preparing for auditions

We offer a variety of creative enrichment and enhancement tothe traditional Post-16 Arts curriculum. We aim to be a centreof excellence for arts provision in St. Helens and to provideour students with experiences to aid their progression into artbased careers or university. Students are able to opt to studythe arts solely or to combine an arts option with othersubjects.

What Does This Mean For You?

It means that if you chose to study one or more Art subjects,such as: Theatre Studies, Acting, Dance, Art Graphics, Fine Art,Photography, Media Production or Music Technology you willautomatically become a member of:

The Arts Academy

and entitled to access a range of creative opportunities to helpdevelop you as an artist and designer.




The help and support for enrichment opportunities at The ArtsAcademy is brought to you in association through

our partnerships and contacts with

leading industry professionals. Collectively through theirexpertise and guidance alongside the specialist teaching asyou progress and develop with us, we believe that The ArtsAcademy at Rainhill Sixth Form Centre will be motivational,inspirational and offer a unique experience for you.

contentsContents

s academythe arts academy

THE ARTS ACADEMY 3 HUMANITIES63yhpargoeGSTRA

Theatre Studies 4 History 37Acting 5 Government and Politics 38Dance 6-7 Psychology 39Fine Art and Art Textiles 8-9 Sociology 40-41Art Graphics 10 Religious Studies 42Photography 11Media Production 12 BUSINESS AND ICTMusic Technology 13 Business Studies 43-44

Travel and Tourism 45DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY 64waLHealth and Social Care 14 Economics 47

84TCI51selitxeT - ngiseD tcudorP

SCITAMEHTAMSEGAUGNALFrench 16-17 Mathematics / Further Mathematics 49German 16-17Spanish 16-17 HE SCIENCE ACADEMY 50English Language 18-19 Applied Science 51English Literature 18-19 Physics 52

Chemistry 53SPORT Biology 53Sport 20

THE PLACE AND PATHWAYSYour Passion, Our Passion 21Guidance and Support 23The Sixth Form Environment 24Courses and Programmes of Learning 25Entry Requirements 26Seeing the Bigger Picture 27Application Form 29-30What happens next? 31Exploration and Enrichment 32-33Career Pathway Subject Choices 34Making Contact 35

2 3

the ar

ts ac

The Arts Academy

Contents

The Arts Academy

Prospectus Artwork:Rainhill 6th 03/09/2012 11:52 Page 2

4 5

Course StructureYear 12Unit 1

Students explore two different plays in practical lessons and are required to complete a portfolio of coursework tosupport their practical sessions

Unit 2

Students are required to perform a monologue or duologue and a group performance under examination conditions

Year 13Unit 3

Students will create a piece of original drama, utilising the skills they have learnt during the course

Unit 4

Students will sit a written examination based on a set play studied throughout the year

theatre studiesTheatre Studies actingActingIf you are someone who is passionate about reading plays,going to the theatre, writing about drama as much asparticipating in it, you will enjoy A Level Theatre Studies. Ifyou want to perform in productions, direct or be involved intheatre design you will need good team work andcommunication skills. You will also need to have theconfidence to experiment independently with your ideas andhave the determination to succeed and meet deadlinesthroughout your studies in this competitive but very rewardingdramatic art subject.

Teaching and Assessment

You will develop acting and performance skills through amixture of skills lessons and practical performance projects.Skills lessons will focus on the fundamental acting skills:acting technique, voice and movement. You will have manyopportunities to develop your performance abilitiesthroughout the two year course. The lessons will be a mixtureof teacher-led activity, workshops and presentations. There iswritten and practical coursework to complete and a visitingexaminer assesses your final projects in both Years 12 and13. Coursework is internally assessed and moderated.Performances are externally examined. We strongly advisethat you attend regular theatre visits to complement yourstudies. There will be compulsory rehearsals which are afeature of this course and students need to be able to offerthis commitment.

Do you want to be part of a committed team,work closely withother students to produce your work? Are you creative, haveself-discipline, and a professional approach to what you do?In other words adopt, “the show must go on” attitude? If so,the BTEC Acting course could be for you!

Vocational Progression

The performing arts industry offers many excitingopportunities including acting, direction, stage managementand theatre and arts administration. Acting will prepare youfor further training and employment in the performing artsindustry or for any practical or academic course at university.

Course Structure

The BTEC qualification provides acting training and this courseemphasises the skills that all employers are looking for,including team work, self-confidence, communication skills,self-motivation and the ability to meet targets.

Teaching and Assessment*

You will develop acting and performance skills through amixture of skills lessons and practical performance projects.Skills lessons will focus on the fundamental acting skills:acting technique, voice and movement. You will have manyopportunities to develop your performance abilitiesthroughout the two year course.

Course Requirements

Theatre Studies:

Grade C or above at GCSE Drama andGCSE English Language


The performing arts industry offers many excitingopportunities including acting, direction, stage managementand theatre and arts administration. Acting will prepare youfor further training and employment in the performing artsindustry or for any practical or academic course at university.A Level Theatre Studies is a great stepping stone for anypractical or academic course at university which can lead toprogression onto performance related careers. Opportunitiesrange from Acting, Alternative Theatre, Arts Management,Broadcasting, Classical Civilisations, Dance, Directing, Drama,Education, Event Management, English Literature, MusicTheatre, Performance Arts, Public Relations, StageManagement, Theatre Arts and Theatre Design.

Course Requirements

BTEC Acting:

Grade C in GCSE Drama and orequivalent from L2 BTEC Acting

Theatre Studies


4 5


Students explore two different plays in practical lessons and are required to complete a portfolio of coursework tosupport their practical sessions

Unit 2

Students are required to perform a monologue or duologue and a group performance under examination conditions

Year 13Unit 3

Students will create a piece of original drama, utilising the skills they have learnt during the course

Unit 4

Students will sit a written examination based on a set play studied throughout the year

theatre studiesTheatre Studies actingActingIf you are someone who is passionate about reading plays,going to the theatre, writing about drama as much asparticipating in it, you will enjoy A Level Theatre Studies. Ifyou want to perform in productions, direct or be involved intheatre design you will need good team work andcommunication skills. You will also need to have theconfidence to experiment independently with your ideas andhave the determination to succeed and meet deadlinesthroughout your studies in this competitive but very rewardingdramatic art subject.


You will develop acting and performance skills through amixture of skills lessons and practical performance projects.Skills lessons will focus on the fundamental acting skills:acting technique, voice and movement. You will have manyopportunities to develop your performance abilitiesthroughout the two year course. The lessons will be a mixtureof teacher-led activity, workshops and presentations. There iswritten and practical coursework to complete and a visitingexaminer assesses your final projects in both Years 12 and13. Coursework is internally assessed and moderated.Performances are externally examined. We strongly advisethat you attend regular theatre visits to complement yourstudies. There will be compulsory rehearsals which are afeature of this course and students need to be able to offerthis commitment.

Do you want to be part of a committed team,work closely withother students to produce your work? Are you creative, haveself-discipline, and a professional approach to what you do?In other words adopt, “the show must go on” attitude? If so,the BTEC Acting course could be for you!


The performing arts industry offers many excitingopportunities including acting, direction, stage managementand theatre and arts administration. Acting will prepare youfor further training and employment in the performing artsindustry or for any practical or academic course at university.

Course Structure

The BTEC qualification provides acting training and this courseemphasises the skills that all employers are looking for,including team work, self-confidence, communication skills,self-motivation and the ability to meet targets.

Teaching and Assessment*

You will develop acting and performance skills through amixture of skills lessons and practical performance projects.Skills lessons will focus on the fundamental acting skills:acting technique, voice and movement. You will have manyopportunities to develop your performance abilitiesthroughout the two year course.

Course Requirements

Theatre Studies:

Grade C or above at GCSE Drama andGCSE English Language


The performing arts industry offers many excitingopportunities including acting, direction, stage managementand theatre and arts administration. Acting will prepare youfor further training and employment in the performing artsindustry or for any practical or academic course at university.A Level Theatre Studies is a great stepping stone for anypractical or academic course at university which can lead toprogression onto performance related careers. Opportunitiesrange from Acting, Alternative Theatre, Arts Management,Broadcasting, Classical Civilisations, Dance, Directing, Drama,Education, Event Management, English Literature, MusicTheatre, Performance Arts, Public Relations, StageManagement, Theatre Arts and Theatre Design.

Course Requirements

BTEC Acting:

Grade C in GCSE Drama and orequivalent from L2 BTEC Acting

Theatre Studies


6 7

danceDance

Course StructureThe BTEC qualification is made up of 18 units studiedacross two years.Mandatory Units

Performance workshopPerforming arts businessThe historical context of performanceRehearsing for performance (double unit)Performing to an audienceDance performance

Specialist UnitsApplying classical ballet techniqueDeveloping classical ballet techniqueApplying contemporary dance techniqueDeveloping contemporary dance technique

Choreographing danceChoreographic principlesThe healthy dancerJazz danceMusical theatre performanceTap danceUrban dance

Do you enjoy performing and expressing yourself throughcreative movement and choreography? If so, this course couldbe for you. The BTEC Extended Diploma in Dance course,enables students to push themselves in order to reach theirhighest potential whilst learning and exploring thisdemanding, exciting and fun performing art.


Assessment is by a combination of practical and writtenassignments, performances and presentations. You willperform continually during the year at “Sharing of Work”evenings and “Dancemania” events. You will also take part ina range of dance competitions and festivals throughout theyear. Opportunities are available for selected students to takeB.B.O. and I.S.T.D dance examinations.


The BTEC Extended Diploma Dance qualification is equivalentto the 3 A Level’s. In addition to the BTEC qualificationstudents can audition to be part of our professional dancecompany. The Dance Company @ RHS was established in2010 to give students professional experience of the life as acompany dancer. The company regularly performs in local andinternational venues. Within our teaching we follow theBritish Ballet Organisation and the I.S.T.D Ballet, Tap andModern Dance syllabus. The course is designed to equip youwith the knowledge, understanding and skills required for asuccessful future in Dance. During the year your performancewill be evaluated against the BTEC criteria to ensure you aremaking progress. Many of our students go on to follow acourse of professional training at a variety of dance collegesand institutions, such as: Arts Educational London Studios TheUrdang Academy Millennium Performing Arts LIPA. The courseis equally valid for progression to degree courses at university.Because the BTEC Extended Diploma qualification is theequivalent of three A Levels, it gives students the opportunityto study a range of degrees in Higher Education. We closelyassist and monitor all dance students through the selection,application and audition processes for any vocational anduniversity dance courses.

Course Requirements

BTEC Dance:

BTEC Dance GCSE Dance is desirable


8 9

Fine art & art textilesFine Art & Art TextilesIn order to be successful in Fine Art or Art Textiles you need tohave a genuine passion for the subject. Although this coursedemands your time and commitment, we believe you will findthe challenges rewarding and fulfilling. This subject providesthe ideal platform for any student wishing to pursue theextensive career opportunities in the art and design or creativeand visual arts field. It will also appeal to those students whohave been successful at GCSE and wish to maintain a creativebalance within their studies at A Level.

During the course you will investigate andbecome confident with the followingaspects of Fine Art:

Understand the key concepts of a wide range of Fine Art and/or Art Textiles techniques.Understand theoretical facts relating to pieces of art.Have the skills to visually analyse art discussing the form, process content and mood.Be able to research effectively, using what you have discovered to influence the work you produce in a creative and imaginative way.Identify key features by looking at the work of both past and present art.Produce an experimental portfolio showing how you haveexplored, experimented and investigated a range of Fine Art and/or Art Textiles techniques. Including instruction notes and reflective evaluation about the processes.Explore a range of different thematic avenues dependingupon personal response to a specified starting point.Utilise the latest technology, including digital photography and professional software packages such asAdobe Photoshop.Organise time efficiently to meet strict deadlines set.Be sympathetic to a range of social, environmental and moral issues encountered within the world of Art, Craft and Design.

We advise you to:

Draw anytime - practice will always improve your skills.

Visit galleries - try and work out what the artwork is aboutbefore you read it. How the work affects you is what is mostimportant. Collect exhibition details.

Generate a sketchbook or journal - log your ideas, stick inanything you feel relevant (exhibition leaflets or interestingimages from magazines or newspapers which you particularlylike).

Keep your camera with you - to capture images for specificthemes. Get into the habit of building up a library of images,as this record and reference will be useful for you to refer to inthe future.

Most importantly you should approach Fine Art and ArtTextiles with a willingness to try out new techniques and to beadventurous, as this will open up your experiences intounderstanding the subject and getting the most enjoymentout of your studies.


You could work within many creative industry disciplines, suchas:

Advertising, Animation, Archaeology, Architecture, Teaching,Art Therapy, Ceramic Design, Sculpture, Graphics,Bookbinding, Conservation, Textile or Fashion Design, ArtTechnician, Display or Interior Design, Industrial Design. Suchcareer choices will probably require students to complete aDiploma in FoundationStudies (Art and Design) after A Levels.

Fine Art & Art Textiles


8 9

Fine art & art textilesFine Art & Art TextilesIn order to be successful in Fine Art or Art Textiles you need tohave a genuine passion for the subject. Although this coursedemands your time and commitment, we believe you will findthe challenges rewarding and fulfilling. This subject providesthe ideal platform for any student wishing to pursue theextensive career opportunities in the art and design or creativeand visual arts field. It will also appeal to those students whohave been successful at GCSE and wish to maintain a creativebalance within their studies at A Level.

During the course you will investigate andbecome confident with the followingaspects of Fine Art:

Understand the key concepts of a wide range of Fine Art and/or Art Textiles techniques.Understand theoretical facts relating to pieces of art.Have the skills to visually analyse art discussing the form, process content and mood.Be able to research effectively, using what you have discovered to influence the work you produce in a creative and imaginative way.Identify key features by looking at the work of both past and present art.Produce an experimental portfolio showing how you haveexplored, experimented and investigated a range of Fine Art and/or Art Textiles techniques. Including instruction notes and reflective evaluation about the processes.Explore a range of different thematic avenues dependingupon personal response to a specified starting point.Utilise the latest technology, including digital photography and professional software packages such asAdobe Photoshop.Organise time efficiently to meet strict deadlines set.Be sympathetic to a range of social, environmental and moral issues encountered within the world of Art, Craft and Design.

We advise you to:

Draw anytime - practice will always improve your skills.

Visit galleries - try and work out what the artwork is aboutbefore you read it. How the work affects you is what is mostimportant. Collect exhibition details.

Generate a sketchbook or journal - log your ideas, stick inanything you feel relevant (exhibition leaflets or interestingimages from magazines or newspapers which you particularlylike).

Keep your camera with you - to capture images for specificthemes. Get into the habit of building up a library of images,as this record and reference will be useful for you to refer to inthe future.

Most importantly you should approach Fine Art and ArtTextiles with a willingness to try out new techniques and to beadventurous, as this will open up your experiences intounderstanding the subject and getting the most enjoymentout of your studies.


You could work within many creative industry disciplines, suchas:


Fine Art & Art Textiles


10 11

graphicsGraphicsIf you are creative, have an eye for detail and compositionthen you’ll love Art Graphics. You will need patience tocomplete your work and be willing to explore the variety ofskills taught to you in an independent way. The course hasstrict assessment deadlines that you must commit to if youwish to succeed. Art Graphics is broad and can encompassdisciplines such as: packaging, logo design, editorial designand typography projects. It is an ideal platform for anystudent who wishes to pursue the extensive careeropportunities in the art, design, creative and visual arts. It willalso appeal to those who have been successful at GCSE andwish to maintain a creative balance within their A Levelstudies.


Predominately you will use the creative arts softwareprogramme Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator to complete yourwork using computers. It is advisable if possible, to have acopy of this for home use, however the art rooms areavailable daily for access to the programme. You can alsoloan a Sixth Form laptop for use within the Common Room,which have access to the programme in support of yourstudies. We advise you to: Keep a scrap book or journal - startkeeping hold of interesting leaflets, menus, packaging andlogos to build up a collection of reference material which willhelp stimulate ideas for your future designs. Get a camera -keep it with you and take lots of photos of anything! Build upa library of images you can refer to at any time to helpproduce your ideas and design concepts.

Course Requirements

Graphics:

Art Graphics Grade C in GCSE Art andDesign.


Graphic design is a growing industry and the skills you learntransfer remarkably well across the job markets. You couldwork within many creative disciplines, such as: Advertising,Marketing, Animation, Architecture, Teaching, Art Therapy,Ceramic Design, Sculpture, Textiles, Fashion Design, ArtTechnician, Display or Interior Design, Industrial Design andmany more! Such career choices will probably requirestudents to complete a Diploma in Foundation Studies (Artand Design) after A Levels.


PHOTOGRAPHYPhotographyThis creative Photography course has an emphasis onphotography as an art form, focusing on lens-based anddigital-media.

You will use the camera as a tool to develop your visualthought processes as well as your creative and criticalabilities. It is essential you have a passion for the subject andlike to work independently as this is expected. It is beneficialto have gained a C grade (minimum) in English Language atGCSE, as assessing and evaluating are an essential part ofthis course. Such skills are in demand within the creativeindustries and according to the Department for Media, Cultureand the Arts, these skills are a significant contributor to theUK economy.

Each unit is delivered as 60 guided learning hours where youwill spend time with your tutor. This does not account for theindependent learning time which you will be required to do,to be able to complete the units of work in depth. During non-contact time workspaces are usually available around thepremises should you need art space, computers or the studio.The library and Common Room within the

Sixth Form are also available to access. We advise that youallow for between five and ten hours a week for independentstudy time. It is fundamental that you attend all designatedclasses and complete all work set for your assessment if youwish to succeed in this competitive subject.

Throughout the course you will develop skills, resources andopportunities to produce imaginative work in a range of lens-based and post-production media. You will be taught theskills of professional photography and various applications foryour work. Initially you will explore different areas ofphotography such as portraiture, landscape, documentary andcommercial product photography. As you progress you willlearn how to enhance and manipulate your work to gaindifferent outcomes and variety.


This two year Level 3 qualification is independently assessedwhich is based on the unit coursework standard you haveproduced. You will receive an awarding grade level of either aPass, Merit or Distinction.


Employment in art, craft and design industries and alliedsectors, or preparation for entry to higher national orundergraduate degree programmes within the arts and mediadisciplines.

Course Requirements

BTEC Photography:

Grade C in GCSE Art and Design/Photography.

yhpargotohPscihparG


12 13

Course StructureUnits CoveredUnit 1 (5 credits) Compulsory UnitPre-production techniques for the creative media industries Unit 2 (5 credits) Compulsory Unit Communication skills for creative media productionUnit 3 (10 credits) Compulsory UnitResearch techniques for the creative media industriesUnit 29 (10 credits) Specialist Unit Music Video ProductionUnit 16 (10 credits) Specialist Unit Film and video editing techniques Unit 32 (10 credits) Specialist Unit Televsion ident Production Unit 33 (10 credits) Specialist Unit Stop Motion Techniques

media productionMedia ProductionThe Level 3 Creative Media Production course in Televisionand Film provides you with the opportunity to start buildingthe technical skills and knowledge relevant to industries in themedia sector. The exciting practical element of the courseallows you to develop your creative and technologicalcapabilities. It will help you to understand a very powerfulforce in our society, and is a good preparation for a variety ofhigher education courses


As a Media Production student you will research the musicindustry, learn relevant technical skills and then plan, filmand edit a music video. You will have the opportunity to workalongside media specialists and use industry standardequipment and software, including green screen technologyand Final Cut Pro.

Assessment is based on your portfolios, presentations andmedia productions all of which are 100% coursework content.

The course is assessed by using pass, merit and distinctioncriteria. At the end of the two year course the points areadded up.

For those going to university, the points are then convertedinto UCAS points.

Resources include:

specialist media technician dedicated media room containing a range of industry standard equipment, including Apple iMac and Macbooks, HD cameras, video editing software (Final CutPro), stop-motion softwareworkshops with experienced industry professionals

Rourse Requirements

BTEC Media:

Grade C in English Language GCSE.

Course content involves analysing, planning and producing amusic video, developing skills in pre-production planning,storyboarding, filming, and editing. You will film your ownproductions, applying research and considering your workplace, carrying out risk assessments for your production work.

You will research and plan a media production, finding outabout all the requirements needed, producing pre-productionmaterials such as: storyboards, mood boards, contact lists,location recces; production schedules; budget; clearances;plans in order to plan a production.

You will explore a range of research techniques used in MediaIndustries, examining their purpose and impact andpresenting your findings.


Advertising, Arts Management, Broadcasting, CommunicationStudies, Film Studies, Journalism, Marketing, PublicRelations, Television, Video Production . . . to name a few!

music technologyMusic TechnologyOn the Music Technology course you will develop musicalvocabulary, aural perception and theory of music frompopular music, jazz, classical music, music from film andtelevision and from around the world.

You will need refined listening skills and an ability to listen tomusic critically. You will gain theoretical knowledge,understanding and practical learning in the management andsetting up of a recording studio based on industryrequirements. You will develop the knowledge and skills toproduce multi-track recordings, mix-down, editing andproduction processes using computer software, and applybasic concepts and practices employed in digital andanalogue sound recording techniques.

You will learn about how sound behaves in performancevenues and recording studios; explore sound as a waveformand about the physics of sound using formulae andquantifying measurements.


All work is internally assessed and verified by BTEC QualityAssurance Leaders. It would be an advantage to be able toplay a musical instrument and be competent in using ICT.


Music Technology can lead to a wide variety of careers such asperforming, recording, music publishing and a variety of othercareers within the music industry, such as: Acoustics andMusic, Band Musicianship, Commercial Music, Creative MusicTechnology,Digital Music, Electronic Music, MusicComposition, Music Industry Management,Music Informatics,Music Production, Music (Tuition), Stage Management.

Course Requirements

BTEC Music Technology:

Grade C or above in GCSE Music/MusicTechnology or equivalent.

Course StructureBTEC Music TechnologyLevel 3 (Production)Units covered:

Music Production TechniquesSequencing Systems and Techniques Sound Creation and ManipulationLive Sound TechniquesBackline Technical Management Listening Skills for Music Technologists


15

design technologyhealth & social careDesign TechnologyHealth & Social Care

The Health and Social Care and Early Years (OCR NationalLevel 3 Certificate) course is aimed at those students whohave an interest in Health, Social Care or Early years sectors.The qualification would also suit those who are still unsurewhere their future lies as the skills learnt and developed arehighly transferable. You will develop researching and problemsolving skills, prepare and give presentations and learn toplan and evaluate activities.

The Health and Social Care and Early Years (OCR NationalLevel 3 Diploma) course is aimed at those students who arecertain their future lies in a care based environment. Althoughthis course demands your time and commitment, we believeyou will find the challenges rewarding and fulfilling.


The course is entirely coursework assessed. All work isassessed by your teachers and then moderated by an externalexaminer. You may also opt to have your qualificationaccredited with either a Health Care or Early Years pathway ifyou are certain of the sector you wish to progress in.

Course Requirements

Health & Social Care:

5 GCSE’s A*-C including GCSE EnglishLanguage.

textilesTextiles

Product Design Textiles is for students who have a creativeflair and interest in fabrics and designing, are visual, practicaland enjoy making and creating products. You will beencouraged to increase and develop a variety of technicalskills including the use of Cad/Cam. The emphasis on designdevelopment is supported by access to trend forecastingmaterial and opportunities to use a wide range of mediaincluding dye techniques, fabrics, printing, weaving, fabricmanipulation, 3D modelling, laser cutting, computerisedembroidery & image transfer.


The lessons will be a mixture of teacher-led activities andworkshops. You will be expected to work independently and tobe organised when planning your work. The course content isa mixture of written and practical units which are examinedexternally. Coursework is structured into mini projects toenable you to be creative and expressive plus explore relatedtechnical and industrial practises which strengthen andsupport knowledge required for the final exam. Tripsthroughout the course such as clothes show, shop visits,ribbon factory, exhibitions, fashion shows and ManchesterUniversities reinforce this knowledge. In addition yourproducts will be shown on two catwalk events during your firstyear of which you will be solely responsible for styling themodel


Students can progress onto future creative university courses.There are also many career opportunities as remember mostof what is around us has been designed by someone.Excellent openings await in the textiles world, some examplesare: Fashion designer, costume designer, fashion buyer,fashion stylist, fabric technologist, fabric testing, freelancedesigner, footwear designer, smart technologist, fashionmerchandising and window dresser. Alternatively working inthe media, magazines or television as film set designer,theatre designer, costume restorer, fashion journalism,fashion photographer or working on exhibits for museums andgalleries. This course would also suit those wanting to pursuea career in teaching or community arts.

Rourse Requirements

Product Design Textiles :

Grade C or above in GCSE Design andTechnology or Art.

Course StructureYear 12

Unit 1AS Value 40% A2 Value 20 %Advanced innovation challenge practical exam in 3 parts

Unit 2 AS Value 60 % A2 Value 30 %Product Study Coursework project

Year 13Unit 3 A2 Value 30%

Design, make and evaluate Coursework project andprototype

Unit 4 A2 Value 20 %Product Design Written exam based on 8 focus areas relatedto textiles and a design situation response

Course StructureBoth years must be completed to gain eachqualification.

Certificate = 1 A Level equivalentgraded as:

Distinction = A Merit = B Pass= E

Diploma 2 A Level equivalentgraded as:

Distinction=AA Merit 1= BBMerit 2= CC Pass1= CCPass2=DD Pass 3 =EE

Year 12Certificate & Diploma

Unit 1- Working to quality practice in care settings Unit 2-Communicating with service users in care settingsUnit 3- Behaviour awareness in care settings

DiplomaUnit 14- Understanding medical aspects of healthUnit 15- Complimentary approaches to careUnit 17-Health education and promotion


Unit 4- Applied practical care in settingsUnit 16-Anatomy and physiology for health and careUnit 23- Working with children in Educational Settings

Diploma

Unit 25- Child developmentUnit 26- Investigating child protection services Unit 27-Developing skills to care for babies

14

You will study three units per year as part of a combined classof Certificate (both certificate and diploma students) and afurther three remaining units which are specific to theDiploma. You will produce six portfolios of evidence over twoyears for the Certificate, and twelve portfolios over two yearsfor the Diploma. The combined total over two years willdetermine your final grade.

All Year 12 units must be successfully completed to beallowed to progress onto the Year 13 coursework.

Both years must be completed in order to achieve thisqualification.


15

design technologyhealth & social careDesign TechnologyHealth & Social Care

The Health and Social Care and Early Years (OCR NationalLevel 3 Certificate) course is aimed at those students whohave an interest in Health, Social Care or Early years sectors.The qualification would also suit those who are still unsurewhere their future lies as the skills learnt and developed arehighly transferable. You will develop researching and problemsolving skills, prepare and give presentations and learn toplan and evaluate activities.

The Health and Social Care and Early Years (OCR NationalLevel 3 Diploma) course is aimed at those students who arecertain their future lies in a care based environment. Althoughthis course demands your time and commitment, we believeyou will find the challenges rewarding and fulfilling.


The course is entirely coursework assessed. All work isassessed by your teachers and then moderated by an externalexaminer. You may also opt to have your qualificationaccredited with either a Health Care or Early Years pathway ifyou are certain of the sector you wish to progress in.

Course Requirements

Health & Social Care:

5 GCSE’s A*-C including GCSE EnglishLanguage.

textilesTextiles

Product Design Textiles is for students who have a creativeflair and interest in fabrics and designing, are visual, practicaland enjoy making and creating products. You will beencouraged to increase and develop a variety of technicalskills including the use of Cad/Cam. The emphasis on designdevelopment is supported by access to trend forecastingmaterial and opportunities to use a wide range of mediaincluding dye techniques, fabrics, printing, weaving, fabricmanipulation, 3D modelling, laser cutting, computerisedembroidery & image transfer.


The lessons will be a mixture of teacher-led activities andworkshops. You will be expected to work independently and tobe organised when planning your work. The course content isa mixture of written and practical units which are examinedexternally. Coursework is structured into mini projects toenable you to be creative and expressive plus explore relatedtechnical and industrial practises which strengthen andsupport knowledge required for the final exam. Tripsthroughout the course such as clothes show, shop visits,ribbon factory, exhibitions, fashion shows and ManchesterUniversities reinforce this knowledge. In addition yourproducts will be shown on two catwalk events during your firstyear of which you will be solely responsible for styling themodel


Students can progress onto future creative university courses.There are also many career opportunities as remember mostof what is around us has been designed by someone.Excellent openings await in the textiles world, some examplesare: Fashion designer, costume designer, fashion buyer,fashion stylist, fabric technologist, fabric testing, freelancedesigner, footwear designer, smart technologist, fashionmerchandising and window dresser. Alternatively working inthe media, magazines or television as film set designer,theatre designer, costume restorer, fashion journalism,fashion photographer or working on exhibits for museums andgalleries. This course would also suit those wanting to pursuea career in teaching or community arts.

Rourse Requirements

Product Design Textiles :

Grade C or above in GCSE Design andTechnology or Art.


Unit 1AS Value 40% A2 Value 20 %Advanced innovation challenge practical exam in 3 parts

Unit 2 AS Value 60 % A2 Value 30 %Product Study Coursework project

Year 13Unit 3 A2 Value 30%

Design, make and evaluate Coursework project andprototype

Unit 4 A2 Value 20 %Product Design Written exam based on 8 focus areas relatedto textiles and a design situation response

Course StructureBoth years must be completed to gain eachqualification.

Certificate = 1 A Level equivalentgraded as:

Distinction = A Merit = B Pass= E

Diploma 2 A Level equivalentgraded as:

Distinction=AA Merit 1= BBMerit 2= CC Pass1= CCPass2=DD Pass 3 =EE


Unit 1- Working to quality practice in care settings Unit 2-Communicating with service users in care settingsUnit 3- Behaviour awareness in care settings

DiplomaUnit 14- Understanding medical aspects of healthUnit 15- Complimentary approaches to careUnit 17-Health education and promotion


Unit 4- Applied practical care in settingsUnit 16-Anatomy and physiology for health and careUnit 23- Working with children in Educational Settings

Diploma

Unit 25- Child developmentUnit 26- Investigating child protection services Unit 27-Developing skills to care for babies

14

You will study three units per year as part of a combined classof Certificate (both certificate and diploma students) and afurther three remaining units which are specific to theDiploma. You will produce six portfolios of evidence over twoyears for the Certificate, and twelve portfolios over two yearsfor the Diploma. The combined total over two years willdetermine your final grade.

All Year 12 units must be successfully completed to beallowed to progress onto the Year 13 coursework.

Both years must be completed in order to achieve thisqualification.


16 17

languagesLanguagesfrenchgermanspanish

FrenchGermanSpanish

Teaching and Assessment -French, German and Spanish

The lessons will be a mixture of teacher-led activities anddiscussions. You will be expected to work and readindependently. The course includes oral & writtenexaminations in Year 12 and in Year 13 with writtenassignments throughout the two year course.


There are many careers in which sound knowledge of alanguage can be of great value when linked to other skillssuch as: Banking, Export, Sales and Marketing, Tourism,Publishing, Journalism, the various EU organisations,Government service and also certain technical or scientificcareers. In addition to pure language courses, manyuniversities offer joint courses in which a language is linked todisciplines such as Economics, Business Studies, Secretarialskills, Law, Engineering, Accountancy and Sciences.

French

French is one of the most widely spoken languages in theworld and is a key language for international communication.It is a native language in France, Belgium, Switzerland,Canada and the French Caribbean and an official language inmany African and Asian countries. By studying this languageat A Level you will get inside the culture and society and youmight be surprised by what you find out! Speaking more thanone language at this level is a commendable skill which willincrease your marketability. Some universities and employersprefer candidates who speak one or more foreign languagesas the global economy depends on communication.

German

German is for a new breed of thinkers, artists, journalists andtravelers. If you want to be a real player in the 21st century,learning German will give you the edge you need. Keep inmind: 100 million people worldwide communicate inGerman!

With knowledge of German, you improve your employmentopportunities - Germany has the largest economy in theEuropean Union and the third largest in the world. German,for sure, puts you in high demand! Some universities andemployers prefer candidates who speak one or more foreignlanguages as the global economy depends oncommunication.

Spanish

The A Level Spanish course offers you the opportunity todevelop your language skills to a high level and to deepenyour understanding of the society and culture of Spain.Spanish is increasingly becoming of greater importance inEurope, where it is often the foreign language of choice afterEnglish. It's no wonder that Spanish is a popular second orthird language; with some 400 million speakers, it's thefourth most commonly spoken language in the world (afterEnglish, Chinese and Hindustani) and, according to somecounts, it has more native speakers than English does. It is anofficial language on four continents and is of historicalimportance elsewhere. Speaking more than one language atthis level is a valued skill and increases your marketability.Some universities and employers prefer candidates who speakone or more foreign languages as the global economydepends on communication.

Course Requirements

Languages :

Grade B in chosen Language andEnglish at GCSE.

German Course StructureAS LevelYouth culture and concerns including

music and fashiontechnologyrelationshipsdrink/drug addiction

Lifestyle: health and fitness including

sport and exercisefood and dietother health issues

The world around us: travel, tourism, environmentalissues and the German- speaking world including

tourist informationtravel and transportweatherpollution and recycling

Education and employment includingeducationstudent issuesthe world of work

AdvancedContinued study of the topics featured at AS level, plus

Customs, traditions, beliefs and religionsNational and international events: past, present and futureLiterature and the arts.

French and Spanish Course StructureAS LevelLeisure and Lifestyles, including:

healthy living, travel & tourism customs and traditions

The Individual and Society, including:

youth cultureeducation

AdvancedEnvironmental Issues, including:

technology,pollutionglobal warming

Social and Political Issues:mediaracism & immigrationsocial

The world of cinema

'If you speak to a man in a language heunderstands it goes to his head, if youspeak to him in his language it goes to his

Nelson Mandela

Languages


18 19

languagesLanguages

Are you interested in why certain people speak the way theydo? Have you ever noticed how men and women speakdifferently? Do you know what makes a good communicator?Are you sure you know your nouns from your verbs? If youwould like to explore these questions and are eager to findout more, then this course should be on your list of A Levelconsiderations if you have achieved a grade B or higher atGCSE. However, like many A Level subjects, English LanguageA Level is nothing like its GCSE counterpart. It is challengingat times and analysis is a major part of the course and youwill encounter countless texts of countless different genres andsubjects - and not only written data either. This is a veryuseful A Level to have in your academic portfolio and offersyou a vast list of university courses and employmentopportunities.


You will be assessed through examinations and coursework atAS and A Level. Teachers will use a variety of strategies inclass to engage your learning. You will need to be prepared towork in a group and be motivated to work individually. Youmust be capable of meeting all deadlines.To support studentstudies there are trip opportunities to London on this course,which feature a theatre production visit, and a workshop visitto the home and workplace of Dr. Samuel Johnson (1748-1759) who complied the first comprehensive Englishdictionary.


Many career opportunities are open to you with AS/A2 EnglishLanguage such as Journalism, Media, Law, Business andEducation. This course will also enable you to progress onto adegree course in English related studies

If you enjoy reading and studying a wide range of poetry,prose and drama texts, and you want to develop youranalytical skills as well as seeing the texts in the context ofthe time when they were written, then you will get a lot out ofthe A Level English Literature course.


Teachers will use a variety of strategies in class to enable yourlearning, for example teacher-led lessons, drama, workshops,and presentations. You will need to be prepared to work in agroup and be motivated to work individually. You must becapable of meeting deadlines. You will be assessed throughexaminations and coursework at AS and A Level. There arestudent trip opportunities on this course which feature atheatre production visit in London. In summer term 2011,students attended the evening performance of The Phantomof the Opera at Her Majesty’s Theatre, Haymarket in supportof their studies covering the theme of ‘Love Through TheAges’. There will also be possibilities of other theatre visitsthroughout the course, especially if a relevant productionbegins locally.


Many career opportunities are open to you with AS/A2 EnglishLiterature such as Journalism, Media, Law, Business andEducation. This course will also enable you to progress onto adegree course in English Literature or related studies

Course Requirements

English Language:

Grade B in GCSE English / GCSE EnglishLanguage

Course Requirements

English Literature:

Grade B in GCSE English Language andGCSE English Literature

(Students with a grade A in GCSEEnglish may also be considered whereLiterature not studied at GCSE)

english languageEnglish Language

languagesLanguagesenglish literatureEnglish Literature


The course covers a wide range of literature from orabout World War One. The coursework component involvesthe study of a prose text and the production of either ananalytical essay or a piece of transformational writing.

You will also study and respond to a drama text.Theexamination involves a response to an unseen extract in whichyou will be required to make links with your wider readingand a question focused on an anthology of poetry studiedthroughout the year.Year 13

The course consists of a coursework element whichinvolves the study and subsequent comparison of three texts,one of which will be a Shakespeare play. The examination issynoptic in nature and focuses on the theme of Love Throughthe Ages.

Preparation will involve the study of a wide range ofliterature focusing on various aspects of the love theme. Theexam will involve responses to unseen


The course covers a wide range of non-fiction texts both written and spoken discourse. As well as studying language in real contexts: Language and Gender, Technology and Power.The coursework component involves the creation and analysis of two original texts from different genres.The examination involves a text grouping activity and analytical response to a text from the mentioned social context.

Year 13

The course consists of a coursework element which involves an investigation into an area of language that interests you and the production of a media text.The examination involves the study of two new areas of language: Child language acquisition and language change.

LanguagesEnglish Language

LanguagesEnglish Literature


20 21

If you wish to take BTEC Sport you should have a keeninterest in recreation and sport generally, an enquiring mindand be interested in anatomy and the physiology of fitness.You should want to know more about how the body functionsand the effects of exercise and want to discover ways toevaluate and improve your own performance in a range ofsporting roles and sporting activities.


This two year qualification is externally moderated and alsoassessed by staff. Grades are awarded on the units ofcoursework you have produced. You will receive an awardinggrade level of either a Pass, Merit or Distinction. You cancomplete either a single or dual award qualification. You willneed to be able to work independently and to the assessmentdeadlines which are set. You will be expected to research andread around this subject to be successful on this course.


There are many career and university degree choices availableto you, such as: Adventure Tourism, Coaching, Fitness,Football Studies, Leisure Management, Outdoor Pursuits,Physical Education, Sports Marketing, Sports Journalism,Sports Science or Studies, Tourism Management, Sport orTravel Operations.

Course Requirements

BTEC Sport (Single):

Grade C in PE/Sport and GCSE EnglishLanguage

BTEC Sport (Double):


Course StructureSport (BTEC Subsidiary Diploma) 60 credits =1 A LevelThree mandatory units, plus one mandatory specialistunit, plus three optional units (45 credits must be atLevel 3 or above.)

Principles of Anatomy and Physiology (Credits 5)The Physiology of Fitness (Credits 5)Assessing Risk in Sport (Credits 10)Mandatory Specialist Units (Both Credits 10)Fitness Testing for Sport and Exercise PrincipalsPractices in Outdoor AdventureOptional Units (All Credits 10)

Sport (BTEC Diploma) 120 credits =2 A LevelsEight mandatory units, plus four optional units (90credits must be at Level 3 or above.)

Principles of Anatomy and Physiology in Sport (Credits 5)The Physiology of Fitness (Credits 5)Assessing Risk in Sport (Credits 10)Fitness Training and Programming (Credits 10)Optional Units (All Credits 10)Mandatory UnitsSports Coaching (Credits 10)Sports Development (Credits 10)Fitness Testing for Sport and Exercise (Credits 10) Practical Team Sports (Credits 10)Practical Individual Sports (Credits 10)

sportSport

the place andpathWays

The place andpathways


20 21

If you wish to take BTEC Sport you should have a keeninterest in recreation and sport generally, an enquiring mindand be interested in anatomy and the physiology of fitness.You should want to know more about how the body functionsand the effects of exercise and want to discover ways toevaluate and improve your own performance in a range ofsporting roles and sporting activities.


This two year qualification is externally moderated and alsoassessed by staff. Grades are awarded on the units ofcoursework you have produced. You will receive an awardinggrade level of either a Pass, Merit or Distinction. You cancomplete either a single or dual award qualification. You willneed to be able to work independently and to the assessmentdeadlines which are set. You will be expected to research andread around this subject to be successful on this course.


There are many career and university degree choices availableto you, such as: Adventure Tourism, Coaching, Fitness,Football Studies, Leisure Management, Outdoor Pursuits,Physical Education, Sports Marketing, Sports Journalism,Sports Science or Studies, Tourism Management, Sport orTravel Operations.

Course Requirements

BTEC Sport (Single):


BTEC Sport (Double):


Course StructureSport (BTEC Subsidiary Diploma) 60 credits =1 A LevelThree mandatory units, plus one mandatory specialistunit, plus three optional units (45 credits must be atLevel 3 or above.)

Principles of Anatomy and Physiology (Credits 5)The Physiology of Fitness (Credits 5)Assessing Risk in Sport (Credits 10)Mandatory Specialist Units (Both Credits 10)Fitness Testing for Sport and Exercise PrincipalsPractices in Outdoor AdventureOptional Units (All Credits 10)

Sport (BTEC Diploma) 120 credits =2 A LevelsEight mandatory units, plus four optional units (90credits must be at Level 3 or above.)

Principles of Anatomy and Physiology in Sport (Credits 5)The Physiology of Fitness (Credits 5)Assessing Risk in Sport (Credits 10)Fitness Training and Programming (Credits 10)Optional Units (All Credits 10)Mandatory UnitsSports Coaching (Credits 10)Sports Development (Credits 10)Fitness Testing for Sport and Exercise (Credits 10) Practical Team Sports (Credits 10)Practical Individual Sports (Credits 10)

sportSport

the place andpathWays

The place andpathways


2322

your passion,our passionYour passion,our passionAt Rainhill Sixth Form Centre there are three elementswhich we champion:

1. Talented Student’s

2. Diverse Curriculum

3. Specialist Staff

Working in harmony we believe that this is what sets ourSixth Form apart.

We are proud of our impressive track record of success and ineducating and equipping our students to fulfil their dreamsand aspirations whatever their desired direction in life.

The Passion

We care passionately about each and every one of ourstudent’s and aim to offer the best bespoke advice andguidance we have available. We ensure every student isfollowing the best programme of individual study possible.These are closely matched to student interests and ambitionswhich are discussed at the enrolment interview. Further, thisis then explored and reviewed through the weekly tutorialswhich we offer to all our students throughout the two yearsthey are with us. By combining excellent academic successalongside personal care and support we strive to provide ahappy, self-motivating, creative and challenging environmentfor students to be part of and to be successful in.

We will always adopt high standards and expectations forourselves and for our student’s.

How can we become even more successful in the future? Well,the difference might just be you! Making contact Yourpassion, our passion.

The Aims

As a Sixth Form Centre and Management Team we arecommitted to educating and developing students as a wholeperson. Universities and prospective employers are not justlooking at a student’s impressive academic record but areincreasingly and more importantly considering their characterand personal experiences which make them unique as anapplicant. We are therefore focused on ensuring that everystudent is provided with opportunities not only to developacademically but that they are able to develop the necessaryskills and unique qualities to achieve success in the future.

Our aims are to support you to:

Be healthyStay safeEnjoy and achieveMake a positive contributionAchieve economic well being

The Transition

To ensure students’ settle in quickly to the demands of Level 3study, we interview every single applicant. During thisprogression interview we discuss with the student their futureplans and the pathways possible to achieve them. We try ourbest to match student ambition with the appropriate adviceand guidance so that a student’s programme of study with uswill allow them to progress in the right direction to allow allour students to fulfil their potential. Early in September wehost a Parent’s Welcome Evening and we explain theexpectations and responsibilities necessary for our students tobe successful and discuss the ways in which we all need towork together as a team to benefit all our students in theirprogression through Post-16 study.

guidanceand support

Guidanceand support

Pastoral and Progress Support

Pastoral care and progress support is provided by the SixthForm Management Team and student appointments areoffered daily. We have a dedicated Post-16 Progress Mentorwho monitors students and liaises with the teaching staff on aregular basis to ensure students are succeeding in theirstudies. A weekly appointment provision with a ConnexionsAdvisor is also available.

Academic Potential

Challenging targets are set at the course outset and progressis monitored and reviewed regularly through a system ofpersonal reviews, interim reports and parent’s evening andclinics to make sure that academic potential is beingachieved.

Tutorials

The tutorial sessions are vital in establishing positiverelationships with tutors who write references for employmentand university and are designed to broaden student’s Post-16experience. Each student is allocated a specialist Sixth FormTutor who will help guide and support them. Year 12 studentsfollow a transferable skills programme. Year 13 studentsfollow a career guidance and UCAS related programme.

Workshops

Opportunities are created to enhance and develop keytransferable skills and events are in association with businessleaders and industry providers. Understanding Business andIndustry workshops are offered yearly at a local universitycampus along with HE days. A student recruitment awarenessday is also provided by QVC Shopping Channel Managementand is an excellent opportunity for students to gain an insightinto their recruitment and application process. It isencouraged that all students take part in these progressionand teamwork activities.

Targets and Referrals

A target setting and referral system supports students and isin place to offer assistance in overcoming areas in need ofdevelopment. Students are encouraged to take ownership andresponsibility for their own actions and attitude to learning.This will be challenged if we feel it is unsatisfactory or ifattendance at lessons is below a reasonable expectation.

Academic Excellence

We have a tradition of students progressing on to study atOxford and Cambridge Universities. We offer interview adviceand practice along with trips to visit if students are capableand wish to apply. A local Oxbridge conference event isorganised where information is provided regardingapplications and students can attend course taster seminars.

22

Your passion,our passion

Guidanceand support


24 25

the sixth formenvironmentThe Sixth FormEnvironmentSignificant investment has gone into ensuring that the SixthForm Centre provides students with a positive learningenvironment through high quality facilities and resources.

Learning Resource Centre

There is a staffed Sixth Form learning resource area that haslap top computer provision, a library including computerprovision and a conference room.

Bistro

The Sixth Form Bistro offers a modern diner where you canbuy a wide range of food, drinks and snacks throughout theday. Breakfast is available from 8.45am and students canuse this pleasant area to relax and study.

Desmond Wilcox Media Centre

Since ‘Specialist Status’ the school now has the DesmondWilcox Media Centre, which has a professional recordingstudio, radio broadcasting facilities, a dedicated MediaStudies, ICT classroom and state of the art Music Technologyclassroom.

Modern Specialist Facilities

Many specialist areas of the school site have been refurbishedsuch as the Art Faculty which includes Fine Art, Art Graphicsand Photography. There is a Performing Arts Dance Studioand rehearsal rooms in the new ‘Mike Doyle Arts Centre’ andan Arts Theatre that supports the healthy growth in TheatreStudies, Acting and Dance. All Science laboratories havebeen refurbished to support our developing Science Academywhich will be officially launched in October 2012.

Sports Facilities

The school has good sporting facilities with a gymnasium,sports hall, weights room, hard court playing and outdoorpitches.

courses andprogrammes of

learning

Courses andProgrammes of

Learning

PAS (Advanced Subsidiary) and A(Advanced) Level courses / qualifications

These qualifications focus on traditional study and the coursesnormally take two years to complete. There is a wide choice ofacademic subjects available. AS and A’ Levels are one routeinto higher education and are useful should you wish to gostraight into employment. Entry on to courses do differ and itis important to check the specific subject qualifications thatare required to be able to proceed onto a course.

BTEC and OCR courses / qualifications

These courses are designed as specialist qualifications forstudents who have a clear view oftheir future career or whoare seeking progression to higher education. They are anequivalent to A’ Levels and are valued by universities, furthereducation colleges and employers. They are career relatedcourses with a specific vocational context and can becombined with both AS and A’ Levels.

Courses and programmes of learning

A level

Art Graphics Biology

Business Studies Chemistry

Economics English Language

English Literature Fine Art

French Further Mathematics

Geography German

History Law

Mathematics Physics

Politics Psychology

Religious Studies Sociology

Spanish Textiles

Theatre Studies Travel & Tourism

BTEC

Subsidiary Diploma in Applied Science (Single Award)

Diploma in Applied Science (Double Award)

Subsidiary Diploma in Creative Media Production (SingleAward)

Subsidiary Diploma in Music Technology (Single Award)

Subsidiary Diploma in Business (Single Award)

Subsidiary Diploma in Art & Design - Photography (SingleAward)

Subsidiary Diploma in Sport (Single Award)

Diploma in Sport (Double Award)

Extended Diploma in Performing Art - Dance (Triple Award)

Subsidiary Diploma in Acting (Single Award)

OCR

National Certificate in Health, Social Care and Early Years(Single Award)

National Diploma in Health, Social Care and Early Years(Double Award)

National Certificate in I.C.T. (Single Award)

National Diploma in I.C.T (Double Award)

GCSE (Re-Sits)

Students who have not managed to achieve a C grade inGCSE Maths will be offered further teaching support and willbe expected to retake this subject until they are successful.Most, if not all, university courses do require GCSE EnglishLanguage and GCSE Mathematics at grade C. Many careersalso stipulate these as a minimum requirement.

‘A’ Level, BTEC and OCRqualifications are regardedequally by universities (Oxbridge being the exception whofavour A’ Level applicants along with A* and A grades atGCSE.) The majority of universities accept student entryapplications on a UCAS point tariff system.

Level 3 study

The Level three study that you will undertake at Rainhill SixthForm Centre places more emphasis on independent study andresearch skills. All the qualifications on offer will ensure youhave many of the essential transferable skills that arerequired in the workplace.

Our top tips for success with us are:

Plan ahead and be organisedWork hard and adopt a positive attitudeBe prepared to try new styles of learning and experiences

The Sixth FormEnvironment


Learning


24 25

the sixth formenvironmentThe Sixth FormEnvironmentSignificant investment has gone into ensuring that the SixthForm Centre provides students with a positive learningenvironment through high quality facilities and resources.

Learning Resource Centre

There is a staffed Sixth Form learning resource area that haslap top computer provision, a library including computerprovision and a conference room.

Bistro

The Sixth Form Bistro offers a modern diner where you canbuy a wide range of food, drinks and snacks throughout theday. Breakfast is available from 8.45am and students canuse this pleasant area to relax and study.

Desmond Wilcox Media Centre

Since ‘Specialist Status’ the school now has the DesmondWilcox Media Centre, which has a professional recordingstudio, radio broadcasting facilities, a dedicated MediaStudies, ICT classroom and state of the art Music Technologyclassroom.

Modern Specialist Facilities

Many specialist areas of the school site have been refurbishedsuch as the Art Faculty which includes Fine Art, Art Graphicsand Photography. There is a Performing Arts Dance Studioand rehearsal rooms in the new ‘Mike Doyle Arts Centre’ andan Arts Theatre that supports the healthy growth in TheatreStudies, Acting and Dance. All Science laboratories havebeen refurbished to support our developing Science Academywhich will be officially launched in October 2012.

Sports Facilities

The school has good sporting facilities with a gymnasium,sports hall, weights room, hard court playing and outdoorpitches.

courses andprogrammes of

learning


Learning

PAS (Advanced Subsidiary) and A(Advanced) Level courses / qualifications

These qualifications focus on traditional study and the coursesnormally take two years to complete. There is a wide choice ofacademic subjects available. AS and A’ Levels are one routeinto higher education and are useful should you wish to gostraight into employment. Entry on to courses do differ and itis important to check the specific subject qualifications thatare required to be able to proceed onto a course.

BTEC and OCR courses / qualifications

These courses are designed as specialist qualifications forstudents who have a clear view oftheir future career or whoare seeking progression to higher education. They are anequivalent to A’ Levels and are valued by universities, furthereducation colleges and employers. They are career relatedcourses with a specific vocational context and can becombined with both AS and A’ Levels.

Courses and programmes of learning

A level

Art Graphics Biology

Business Studies Chemistry

Economics English Language

English Literature Fine Art

French Further Mathematics

Geography German

History Law

Mathematics Physics

Politics Psychology

Religious Studies Sociology

Spanish Textiles

Theatre Studies Travel & Tourism

BTEC

Subsidiary Diploma in Applied Science (Single Award)

Diploma in Applied Science (Double Award)

Subsidiary Diploma in Creative Media Production (SingleAward)

Subsidiary Diploma in Music Technology (Single Award)

Subsidiary Diploma in Business (Single Award)

Subsidiary Diploma in Art & Design - Photography (SingleAward)

Subsidiary Diploma in Sport (Single Award)

Diploma in Sport (Double Award)

Extended Diploma in Performing Art - Dance (Triple Award)

Subsidiary Diploma in Acting (Single Award)

OCR

National Certificate in Health, Social Care and Early Years(Single Award)

National Diploma in Health, Social Care and Early Years(Double Award)

National Certificate in I.C.T. (Single Award)

National Diploma in I.C.T (Double Award)

GCSE (Re-Sits)

Students who have not managed to achieve a C grade inGCSE Maths will be offered further teaching support and willbe expected to retake this subject until they are successful.Most, if not all, university courses do require GCSE EnglishLanguage and GCSE Mathematics at grade C. Many careersalso stipulate these as a minimum requirement.

‘A’ Level, BTEC and OCRqualifications are regardedequally by universities (Oxbridge being the exception whofavour A’ Level applicants along with A* and A grades atGCSE.) The majority of universities accept student entryapplications on a UCAS point tariff system.

Level 3 study

The Level three study that you will undertake at Rainhill SixthForm Centre places more emphasis on independent study andresearch skills. All the qualifications on offer will ensure youhave many of the essential transferable skills that arerequired in the workplace.

Our top tips for success with us are:

Plan ahead and be organisedWork hard and adopt a positive attitudeBe prepared to try new styles of learning and experiences

The Sixth FormEnvironment


Learning


26 27

1 The minimum entry to Sixth Form is 5 GCSE's at grade C including English Language at grade C

2 For Applied courses (OCR/BTEC) the entry requirement is 5 GCSE's or equivalent including English Language at grade C ( then apply specific course entry requirements)

3 For A' level courses the entry requirement is 2 B's and 3C's at GCSE including English Language GCSE and Mathematics at grade C (then apply specific entry requirements for course)

Students will be guided based on their GCSEperformance onto the following banded pathways.

Band A: Point score of 5.8 or higher - 4 or 5 AS Levels ofyour choice

Band B: Point score of 5.2 or higher - mix of BTEC/OCR andAS Levels equivalent to 4 AS Levels

Band C: Points score of 4.5 or higher - programme ofBTEC/OCR equivalent to 4 AS Levels

GCSE Grade Points

A* = 8 A = 7 B = 6 C = 5

D = 4 E = 3 F = 2 G = 1

How to calculate your point score

Using the table above, add up the points of your best 9 GCSEresults. Total up the score and then divide by 9.

For example:

If you obtain a grade B in Maths this is worth 6 points.

If a total score for your best 9 GCSE scores = 58

58 divided by 9 gives a GCSE points score of 6.4

We offer a wide range of Level 3 courses which will enableyou to learn, access and succeed in a variety of different andprogressive pathway alternatives.

Specific subject qualifications

Fine Art Art Graphics Photography3D-Design Acting DanceMusic Technology Textiles

Minimum Grade C or the equivalent from the specificGCSE subject or a related subject area

Sport Theatre Studies

Minimum Grade C in specific subject at GCSE and inGCSE English Language

Business Studies

Minimum Grade C in GCSE Business Studies and/orGCSE English Language and GCSE Mathematics atgrade C

Media BTEC Business Travel and TourismGeography History PoliticsLaw Health and Social CareReligious Studies Sociology

Minimum Grade C in GCSE English Language

Biology Chemistry Physics

Minimum Grade B in all GCSE Science modules, with anaverage GCSE profile of grade B

Applied Science

Minimum Grade CC in Science OR a merit/distinctionfrom a Level 2 Applied Science qualification, and 5

-C including English Language andMathematics

Economics

Minimum Grade C in GCSE Mathematics and B in GCSEEnglish Language

English Language

Minimum Grade B in GCSE English / English Language

English Literature

Minimum Grade B in GCSE English Language and GCSEEnglish Literature

Government and Politics

Minimum Grade B in GCSE English Language

History

Minimum Grade B in GCSE English Language and GCSEHistory

Psychology

Minimum Grade C in GCSE English Language, GCSEMathematics and GCSE Science (preferably Biology)

Further Mathematics

Minimum Grade A in GCSE Mathematics

Mathematics

Minimum Grade B in GCSE Mathematics

French Spanish German

Minimum Grade B in the specific GCSE Language andGCSE English Language

Health and Social Care Travel and Tourism

Minimum Sixth Form Entry requirements i.e. 5 A*-C

ICT

Minimum merit or above (grade B) from L2 OCRNational in ICT or equivalent at GCSE

The Sixth Form has a minimum entry requirement for entry as specified belowand then specific entry requirements depending upon whether students wish tofollow an applied or academic course. Post-16. Come and meet

us at our annual Autumn Term . . .

Open Evening on Thursday 8thNovember, 2012 from 6.30pm

onwards

Speak to our approachable and friendly staffin person and find out more about the

fantastic range and scope of courses andopportunities we have available for you. It has

never been more exciting than now, to be astudent at Rainhill Sixth Form Centre. Come

and find out why!

We offer a modern thinking, educationalenvironment where students want to be and

participate in to the best of their ability

W

see the bigger pictureSee the bigger picture

entry requirementsEntry Requirements

Open Evening

TOGETHER WEACHIEVE

Entry Requirements

TOGETHER WEACHIEVE


30 31

Your reason for applying to usBriefly, give your reasons for applying to Rainhill Sixth Form Centre

Briefly, please give further information about yourself. You should comment on your extracurricular activities, the contribution you will be ableto make to Sixth Form life and what plans you have for your Post-18 career.

Support Needs (please tell us if you have any special educational support needs eg: Dyslexia)

Additional Support Needs (please let us know if you have a medical condition that we should be aware of)

Signature of Applicant: ........................................................................ Date: .........../................/.................

Signature of Parent/Guardian: .............................................................. Date: .........../................/.................Completed forms should be returned by: Friday 1st February 2013

Please address for the attention of:Sixth Form AdministratorRainhill Sixth Form Centre,Warrington Road, Rainhill, Prescot, L35 6NYor return by fax to: 01744 677207

For office use only:

Interviewed by: ........................................................................................................... Date: ...........................................

App. Received Acknowledged Interview Arranged Offer Reply

Cut o

ut an

d sen

d to t

he Si

xth Fo

rm A

dmini

strat

or, R

ainhil

l Sixt

h For

m Ce

ntre

, War

ringt

on R

oad,

Rainh

ill, P

resco

tt, M

erse

yside

L35 6

NY or

FAX t

o: 01

744 6

7720

7

What happens next?What happens next?Autumn Term

Start to investigate your options and submit yourapplication.

Attend your school’s Post 16 Evening or Career Conventions, start to think about your choices.Read our Sixth Form prospectus and visit our website for more information.Come along to our Open Evening on Thursday 8th November, 2012 at 6.30pm.

The evening is introduced by the Director of Sixth Formin the Arts Theatre.

Submit your application to us by Thursday 31st January 2013.

Spring Term

Preliminary interviews begin with advice and guidance.

Once we have received your application we will contact you toarrange an interview. This will take place at our centre andwe will discuss with you:-

Your initial course choices, your predicted grades and ourentry requirements.Alternative options and progression routes.If you are offered a place upon interview, you will have two weeks to confirm your acceptance.

Summer Term

Upon confirmation of your acceptance, you will becontacted by the Sixth Form Management Team.

You will be invited to attend our Student Conference afternoon and BBQ event in June 2013. This is an informal and fun social occasion with the chance for you to meet other students who are starting with us in September. External students will have the opportunity to look around the facilities and meet some of the teaching staff if they have not already done so.

Enrolment

Upon receipt of evidence of your GCSE results enrolmentbegins:-

Thursday 22nd August 2013 from 10.00 am

Get your GCSE results and enrol at Rainhill Sixth FormCentre.

If you meet our entry requirements, a member of ourAdmissions Team will process your enrolment form and inview of your grades will advise you of the most appropriatecourses you should consider. You will spend the first twoweeks in September on an induction programme to help yousettle into your chosen course subjects. During the first termyou will be assessed with targets and goals established sothat you can progress successfully in Year 12 and Year 13.

If you have any queries or concerns regarding yourapplication, please contact our Admissions Co-ordinatorDebbie Towers on 01744 677205.

Good Luck in your exams!


32 33

Opportunities are provided to expand your horizons,career development, confidence and social integrationare associated and delivered through major UK andWorld Wide Organisations.

At a local level students carry out voluntary work with localschools, residential homes, hospitals and

organisations such as Barnado’s. You can also apply andvolunteer within Rainhill High School as many departmentshave opportunities where you can get involved.

At a national level students support national events and daysto raise funds in supporting good causes and various charities.At an international level

students have the opportunity to be involved in overseasexpeditions.

Summer 2011, two expeditions travelled to:

Uganda, Kenya and Vietnam.

Both student expeditions involved trekking, communityprojects with a rest and relaxation phase. Student teams wereinvolved in working with remote rural schools and their localcommunities. Such

expeditions endorse personal experiences and are incrediblyvaluable and life changing.

Our next expeditions are now being planned for 2013 and2014 (read about them below.)

Indian Himalaya Expedition 2013.

We are delighted to announce a very exciting opportunity withthe True Adventure Development Programme for students tolead their own expedition to the Indian Himalaya in thesummer of 2013. As well as this exciting opportunity to walkin one of the world’s most spectacular mountain ranges, itwill also give students the chance to participate in a projectwith a rural Himalayan community.

World Challenge Expedition 2014.

We will be in discussions this year to decide upon thedestination of the next student expedition with the WorldChallenge Development Team. You have an opportunity toapply to join the student and staff team of explorers if youdecide to enrol with us in 2012. So, let’s explore the world oflearning and global opportunities together as we help you todiscover who you are Post-16.

These are encouraged to promote student inclusion,teamwork, responsibility and self-management.

We have a Sixth Form Student Leadership Team which allowsstudents to take responsibility for issues presented in SixthForm and take ownership for organising their own activitiesand events.

Duke of Edinburgh Award

A very strong Duke of Edinburgh Scheme operates and largenumbers of student’s go on to achieve their Gold Awards.

Recreation

There are a wide range of recreational and competitiveactivities offered such as football, netball, health and fitnesssessions.

CSL Sports Leadership

The Community Sports Leaders Award allows students to gaina leadership qualification and complete a community sportleadership in the local community. This can then bedeveloped further through the Step into Sport VolunteeringProgramme.

Study Trips

A variety of trips and activities are offered by individualdepartments. These have included Theatre Study trips to NewYork, Geography trips to Girona and Spain, History trips to thebattle fields in Belgium, English trips to the BBC in Londonand Sociology trips to Auschwitz.

social events andpeer leadership

Social Events andPeer Leadership

exploration andenrichmentExploration andEnrichment


34 35

togetherWe achieve

togetherWe achieve

Our Recommendations

If you are interested in any of the career pathways listed, werecommended that you consider some of the course subjectcombinations indicated which universities and employers maylook favourably on upon application:

Medicine, Pharmacy, Veterinary Surgery,Optometry, Dentistry

Physics, Biology, Chemistry, Maths, English, Psychology.

Nursing / Social Care / Science Technician

Biology, Health and Social Care (OCR), BTEC Applied Science,Chemistry, Physics, Maths.

Engineering, Surveying

Physics, Chemistry, Further Maths, Maths, Applied Science,Geography.

Law

Law, Geography, Politics, English Language, EnglishLiterature, History, Sociology, Maths.

Environmental Science, Geography

Geography, Biology, Chemistry, Maths, BTEC Applied Science.

Sport Science, Coaching

BTEC Sport, Biology, Chemistry, Maths, BTEC Applied Science,Travel & Tourism, English Language, BTEC Business.

Economics

Economics, Further Maths, Maths, BTEC Business, EnglishLanguage.

English

English Language, English Literature, Theatre Studies.

History

History, Religious Studies, Politics, English Literature, EnglishLanguage.

We have a dedicated staff tutorial team of: 5 Tutorsin Year 12 and 6 Tutors in Year 13 (with 4additional tutorial staff attached)

Rainhill Sixth Form CentreWarrington RoadRainhillPrescotMerseysideL35 6NY

Telephone: 01744 677205

Fax: 01744 677207

Website: www.rainhillsixthform.org.uk

Email: [email protected]

Politics

Politics, Law, English Literature, English Language, History.

Religion, Philosophy

Religious Studies, Politics, History, Sociology.

Psychology

Psychology, Biology, Maths.

Criminology

Law, Politics, Sociology, Psychology.

Performance Art

BTEC Dance, English Literature, English Language, TheatreStudies

Fine Art

Fine Art, Art Graphics, BTEC Photography.

Media / Journalism

BTEC Media, English Language, English Literature, BTECPhotography, Art Graphics

Fashion / Retail

Textiles, Art Graphics, BTEC Photography, BTEC Business,ICT (OCR)

Business / Management

BTEC Business, Travel & Tourism, ICT (OCR).

ICT / Gaming

ICT (OCR), Art Graphics, BTEC Media, BTEC Business, Maths,English Language.

The Sixth Form Management Team are available to contact from 10.00am-4.30pmfrom Monday to Friday during term time and appointments to come and see usare available during the majority of the summer holiday period. If you would liketo be shown around our facilities, meet teaching staff or would like any furtherinformation, please contact our reception and we look forward to makingarrangements with you soon.

Director of Sixth Form StudiesMr. Tony Cunningham (LLB Hons)Teacher of Law

Asst. Director of Sixth Form StudiesMrs. Jo Walker (BA Hons)Teacher of Drama

Sixth Form ManagerMrs. Alison Anders (BA Hons)Development and Pastoral Care

Sixth Form Mentor (KS5) Mr. Paul Chadwick (BA Hons)HE Progression and Pathways

Sixth Form AdministratorMrs. Debbie Towers

Sixth Form Library FacilitiesMr. Neil Daniels (BA Hons).

making contactMaking Contact

mEet the teamMeet the Team

career pathWay andsubJect choicesCareer PathWayand SubJect choices

Meet the Team

Making ContactCareer PathWayand SubJect choices

togetherWe achieve


36 37

humanitiesHumanities

geographyGeographyIt is important to realise that you are invited to participate indiscussions, presentations and to carry out independent work.Research will be completed using books, periodicals and ICT.You will be expected to attend student conferences and carryout data collection and analysis through your fieldwork andtherefore, being pro-active and committed is essential to youroverall success on the two year programme of study.Geography is all around us and its study allows us to gain anunderstanding of the global issues that face us at the presenttime and of our place as individuals within an increasinglycomplex world. If you have an enquiring mind and want toexplore issues that matter, like globalisation, debt,environmental change, and management of the world’sresources then this is the course for you.


There is no coursework on the AS or A2 Geography courses,however you will carry out residential fieldwork during thistime in order to develop the skills necessary for Module Two(AS) and Module Four (A2). Presently we visit Ainsdale nearSouthport , Southern Spain and Morocco. These trips areopportunities for you to gain a practical geographicalunderstanding and insight to support your studies.


Geographers acquire a wide range of skills, such as the abilityto analyse data, to write a report or to understand theattitudes and values of decision makers. Geographers aregood at networking and teamwork and this sixth formdepartment is at the forefront of using ICT in learning andteaching.

Examples of possible student careers are:

Agriculture, Archaeology, Countryside Management,Development Studies, Earth Sciences, Ecology, Economics,Environmental Studies or Science, Land Economy, LandscapeArchitecture, Meteorology, Oceanography, Planning, Politics,Surveying Transport Studies, Urban Studies, Law, MediaStudies, Medicine, Biochemistry plus many others.

The use of ICT based study guides provided on thiscourse enhances your centred learning and this sets ourstudents up for university life.

50% of AS, 25% of A Level

1 hour 15 minutes written examination

Outline of unit:

The period 1906 – 1951 has radically shaped the way welive our lives today. From issues such as votes for women,independence for Ireland and the growth of the workingclasses via two World Wars and the Great Depression, this unitdeals with some of the fundamental events that changedTwentieth Century Britain.

Stalin R



Outline of unit:

The Great Terror, Collectivisation, Show Trials, Gulags,Socialism in one Country, Hammer and Sickle; all theseevents are unequivocally personified in the body of one manwhose influence dominated Russian society for more than 40years. His name? Ioseb Besarionisdze Jughashvili, or as he isbetter known; Joseph Stalin, “man of steel”. This unit dealswith how this one man came to prominence, his ruthlesspolicies and his overall impact on the USSR itself.

Year 12Geog 1 (70%)Rivers and flood management Coastal environmentsPopulation changeHealth IssuesGeog 2 (30%)Geographical and Fieldwork SkillsYear 13Geog 3 (60%)Plate tectonics and associated hazardsWeather and climate and associated hazardsDevelopment and globalisation Contemporary conflicts and challenges Geog 4 (40%)Geographical Issue

People: TriumphR,

30% of A Level


Outline of unit:

How did a country such as the USSR, one of the world’sforemost superpowers, the first nation to put a man into outerspace, a nation who brought the world to the brink of nuclearwar collapse into chaos and ruin? This unit complements Unit2 by unravelling the saga that was the USSR from its triumphin WW2 through to the overthrow of Gorbachev and the finalend of the world’s greatest ever social, cultural, economic andpolitical experiment: Communism.

y,1878 - 1989

20% of A Level

Coursework unit

Approximately 3500 words

Outline of unit:

Between the years 1878 – 1989 Germany was forgedthrough Blood and Iron. But can a clear line be traced fromthe policies of Bismarck to the horrors of the Nazi regime andthe subsequent division between East and West? Has

Germany trodden a sonderweg (special path) which due to itsown society it cannot fail but to follow? The coursework unitallows students to consider these questions as they seek tounderstand what shaped one of the great nations during thecourse of the late Nineteenth and Twentieth centuries.Students are given guidance to select their own question,following their own interests be it political, social, cultural oreconomic. This is a fantastic opportunity to embed thenecessary skills and independence that is required of A Levelstudents and it is excellent preparation for University styleassessments.

Why tak

The influential Russell Group of Universities, which includes Oxford, Cambridge, have ranked history as one of the top academic subjects, and is one that is considered highly by both employers and universities alike when considering applications.Combines well with – English Literature, Geography, Lawand Economics.

Motivation, good work ethic, willingness to read around the topics.Grade or above in English is desirable.

You do not need to have studied GCSE history to study atA Level

historyHistory

R

Geography:

Grade C in GCSE English Language

R

History:

Grade B in GCSE History and GCSEEnglish Language


36 37

humanitiesHumanities

geographyGeographyIt is important to realise that you are invited to participate indiscussions, presentations and to carry out independent work.Research will be completed using books, periodicals and ICT.You will be expected to attend student conferences and carryout data collection and analysis through your fieldwork andtherefore, being pro-active and committed is essential to youroverall success on the two year programme of study.Geography is all around us and its study allows us to gain anunderstanding of the global issues that face us at the presenttime and of our place as individuals within an increasinglycomplex world. If you have an enquiring mind and want toexplore issues that matter, like globalisation, debt,environmental change, and management of the world’sresources then this is the course for you.


There is no coursework on the AS or A2 Geography courses,however you will carry out residential fieldwork during thistime in order to develop the skills necessary for Module Two(AS) and Module Four (A2). Presently we visit Ainsdale nearSouthport , Southern Spain and Morocco. These trips areopportunities for you to gain a practical geographicalunderstanding and insight to support your studies.


Geographers acquire a wide range of skills, such as the abilityto analyse data, to write a report or to understand theattitudes and values of decision makers. Geographers aregood at networking and teamwork and this sixth formdepartment is at the forefront of using ICT in learning andteaching.

Examples of possible student careers are:

Agriculture, Archaeology, Countryside Management,Development Studies, Earth Sciences, Ecology, Economics,Environmental Studies or Science, Land Economy, LandscapeArchitecture, Meteorology, Oceanography, Planning, Politics,Surveying Transport Studies, Urban Studies, Law, MediaStudies, Medicine, Biochemistry plus many others.

The use of ICT based study guides provided on thiscourse enhances your centred learning and this sets ourstudents up for university life.



Outline of unit:

The period 1906 – 1951 has radically shaped the way welive our lives today. From issues such as votes for women,independence for Ireland and the growth of the workingclasses via two World Wars and the Great Depression, this unitdeals with some of the fundamental events that changedTwentieth Century Britain.

Stalin R



Outline of unit:

The Great Terror, Collectivisation, Show Trials, Gulags,Socialism in one Country, Hammer and Sickle; all theseevents are unequivocally personified in the body of one manwhose influence dominated Russian society for more than 40years. His name? Ioseb Besarionisdze Jughashvili, or as he isbetter known; Joseph Stalin, “man of steel”. This unit dealswith how this one man came to prominence, his ruthlesspolicies and his overall impact on the USSR itself.

Year 12Geog 1 (70%)Rivers and flood management Coastal environmentsPopulation changeHealth IssuesGeog 2 (30%)Geographical and Fieldwork SkillsYear 13Geog 3 (60%)Plate tectonics and associated hazardsWeather and climate and associated hazardsDevelopment and globalisation Contemporary conflicts and challenges Geog 4 (40%)Geographical Issue

People: TriumphR,

30% of A Level


Outline of unit:

How did a country such as the USSR, one of the world’sforemost superpowers, the first nation to put a man into outerspace, a nation who brought the world to the brink of nuclearwar collapse into chaos and ruin? This unit complements Unit2 by unravelling the saga that was the USSR from its triumphin WW2 through to the overthrow of Gorbachev and the finalend of the world’s greatest ever social, cultural, economic andpolitical experiment: Communism.

y,1878 - 1989

20% of A Level

Coursework unit

Approximately 3500 words

Outline of unit:

Between the years 1878 – 1989 Germany was forgedthrough Blood and Iron. But can a clear line be traced fromthe policies of Bismarck to the horrors of the Nazi regime andthe subsequent division between East and West? Has

Germany trodden a sonderweg (special path) which due to itsown society it cannot fail but to follow? The coursework unitallows students to consider these questions as they seek tounderstand what shaped one of the great nations during thecourse of the late Nineteenth and Twentieth centuries.Students are given guidance to select their own question,following their own interests be it political, social, cultural oreconomic. This is a fantastic opportunity to embed thenecessary skills and independence that is required of A Levelstudents and it is excellent preparation for University styleassessments.

Why tak

The influential Russell Group of Universities, which includes Oxford, Cambridge, have ranked history as one of the top academic subjects, and is one that is considered highly by both employers and universities alike when considering applications.Combines well with – English Literature, Geography, Lawand Economics.

Motivation, good work ethic, willingness to read around the topics.Grade or above in English is desirable.You do not need to have studied GCSE history to study atA Level

historyHistory

R

Geography:


R

History:

Grade B in GCSE History and GCSEEnglish Language


38

AS Level

Unit 1 (GOVP1): People, Politics andParticipation



Outline of unit:

This unit deals with some of the fundamental issuessurrounding UK politics today. Through critical analysis ofpolitical parties to protest movements and voting behaviour tothe very voting system itself, this element of the course dealswith some of the most important topics in understanding themodern British political system.

Unit 2 (GOVP2): Governing Modern Britain



Outline of unit:

Who governs? Is it the Prime Minister or does Parliamentreally pull the strings of power? This unit looks in depth athow the Government of the UK works, from the internalworkings of the Constitution through to the impact of theJudiciary and the European Union. With the current‘omnishambles’ surrounding the European Court of HumanRights and the furore over political accountability, unit 2 looksin detail at the trials and tribulations surrounding ‘GoverningModern Britain’.

A2 Level

Unit 3: The Politics of the USA (GOV3A)

50% of A2, 25% of A Level


Outline of Unit:

Do you know your Blue dog Democrats from your RockefellerRepublicans? Your blue states from your red or even, purpleones? Unit 3 complements Unit 1 by looking at politicalparties, pressure groups, voting behaviour and the electoralprocess. Unit 3 crosses the Atlantic to focus on key issues inthat crucible of western democracy: The United States ofAmerica.

Unit 4: The Government of the USA (GOV4A)

50% of A2, 25% of A Level


Outline of Unit:

“We the people of the United States”, so begins the USConstitution, one of the most famous set of rules in history.But how can a document written in 1787, be applicable inthe 21st century? This unit explores the relationship betweena people and its constitution, its judicial and legislativeprocess through the Supreme Court and Congress as well asexamining the job of the most powerful man on earth; thePresident of the United States.

Why take Government and politics A Level?

Politics is not only a fantastic option to study at A Level, butcan provide with the transferable skills of analysis andevaluation that degree courses are looking for in theirundergraduates. One of our recent students, AlexanderGraham achieved an A* in Politics and this enabled him tostudy Law at Oxford University. The subject combines wellwith Geography, History, Law, English and Business Studies.

The Russell Group of Universities which include Oxford,Cambridge, Durham, Manchester and Liverpool universitieshas graded politics as a difficult A Level. This meansuniversities and employers will look upon your applicationfavourably if you have studied Politics A Level.

What do I need to get on the course?

Motivation, a good work ethic and an interest in current affairs.A Grade B or above in English Language.

government andpoliticsGovernment andPolitics A range of topic-based options which bring together

explanations from different approaches and engage youin issues and debates in contemporary psychology.

Teaching and AssessmentThe lessons will be a mixture of teacher-led activities anddiscussions. You will be expected to work and readindependently. The course includes two module writtenexaminations in Year 12 and in Year 13 with essayassignments throughout the two year course. This is achallenging course and you will need to be work focused andmeet the essay deadlines.

Vocational ProgressionThis course is an excellent preparation for a degree course inPsychology and for a wide range of careers, including:Educational, Clinical, Occupational and Forensic Psychology,Medicine, Teaching, Counselling, PR, Marketing,Broadcasting, Criminology, Mental Health Nursing, SocialWork, Cognitive Science, Human Resources Management, andAdvertising.

psychologyPsychology

Course StructureYear 12PSYA1 (Jan)

Memory in everyday lifeAttachmentMethods and techniques

PSYA2 (May)Stress as a bodily responseSocial influence in everyday lifeDefining and explaining psychological abnormality Treating abnormality

Six Core UnitsPSYA3 (Jan)

Biological rhythms SleepDisorders of sleepThe formation, maintenance and breakdown of romantic relationshipsEffects of early experience and culture on adult relationshipsBiological explanations of aggression Evolution and human aggression

PSYA4 (June)

Biological explanations and psychological explanations of schizophreniaBiological therapies and psychological therapies for schizophrenia.The study of anomalous experienceThe application of scientific method in psychology Data analysis and reporting on investigations

39

Course Requirements

Government & Politics:

Grade B in GCSE English Language

Course Requirements

Psychology:

Grade C in GCSE English Language,GCSE Mathematics and GCSE Science(ideally Biology)

Government andPolitics


40 41

sociologySociologyThis is a subject that challenges your everyday experiences. Itis the study of the relationship between the individual andsociety. Have you ever wondered why people exhibit a certainbehaviour or how we become the people that we are? If so,the Sociology A Level course offers you an opportunity toexplore a deeper understanding of the social world, byexamining social influences, such as, families, schools,friends, and the media. Consideration of how and why suchgroups and institutions function will enable you to examinehow individuals both create society and are created by it. It isan exciting and demanding course which aims to developvaluable academic and social skills. Critical awareness,political literacy and informed opinion are encouraged on thiscourse, with the ultimate aim of developing the whole person.

Teaching and AssessmentTeaching is delivered in small groups by lectures, interaction,activity learning and personal student research.Assessment isthrough regular submission of past questions and exampractice.

k y.In the past two years Sociology students have participated ina four day trip to Krakow and Auschwitz in Poland andparticipated in a Criminology conference at the University ofKeele. Experience of life is an important aspect ofunderstanding sociology in action.

Vocational ProgressionSociologists are highly valued and studies in this subjectprepare you for a variety of courses in Higher Education whichinclude Medicine, Law, Politics, Criminology, Social Policyplanning and Journalism to name some. Any career thatinvolves the interaction of people is one that would benefitfrom a sociological insight and many of our ex- students arenow following successful careers in teaching, social services,the police force, the prison service, Parliament, journalism,private enterprise and medici

Course StructureTotal credits 60 (equivalent to 1 A Level)YUnit 1: Families and HouseholdsUnit 2: Education with Research MethodsYUnit 3: Beliefs in SocietyUnit 4: Crime and Deviance and Social Theory and Methods

Course Requirements



42 43

religious educationReligious Education Business and ICTBusiness and ICTReligious Studies is for students who value open-mindeddebate and are serious about developing independence ofthought and essay writing technique. The syllabus brings abroader variety of exciting and dynamic topicslinking religiousbelief to many other subjects including Science and English.The course enables students to study in greater depth aspectsof one of more religion(s), including textual,historical, ethical,phenomenological and philosophical perspectives.

Teaching and AssessmentThe lessons will be a mixture of teacher-led activities anddiscussions. At times you will be expected to work in a groupand at other times individually. The course includes writtenexaminations in Year 12 and 13 and essay assignmentsthroughout the two year course.

Vocational ProgressionReligious Studies is widely accepted at all universities andcolleges in the UK and is useful for a wide range of careersincluding teaching, law, medicine, social work and business.

Course Requirements

RE:



Philosophy of Religion and Contemporary SocietyUnit 2

The Religion and Contemporary Society (examining issues of identity and belonging in our 21st century, multi-cultural society)

Year 13Unit 3

Philosophy of Religion and Contemporary SocietyUnit 4

In depth detail on issues such as: Cultural identity in our society Wearing of religious forms of dress Arranged marriagesRelationship between different faiths in 21st century society.


44 45

business studiesBusiness StudiesOn completion of A Level Business Studies you will havedeveloped a range of professional skills which make you anattractive investment to both the world of work, or furthereducation. Human Rescources, Production, Finance andMarketing are just some areas that you will be skilled in.Combined with a sharp focus on aims and objectives and theability to analyse and make important decisions, BusinessStudies gives you a skill-set that prospective employersdesire.

Teaching and Assessment(A Level) You will put theory to the test in examining realworld examples from a range of businesses from giants likeMicrosoft or Tesco to local, single employee, businesses. Essaystyle exam questions will be set after the completion of eachpoint of learning to help prepare for the end of year exams.Two exams in AS followed by two more at A2 will completethe full A Level. (BTEC)Students will be assessed at thecompletion of each section of work. This is not negotiable!Time-management and focused effort are required to meetdeadlines and complete work to the highest standard that theBusiness Studies department strives for. Failure to completework, on time and to the best standard will lead to focusedtime management and assistance from devoted departmentstaff. There are no external exams so completion of eachmodule takes centre place.

Vocational ProgressionAccountancy, Advertising, Banking, Commerce, Economics,Financial Services, Management, Marketing, Public Relationsor Administration, Insurance, Tourism or Travel Management.The BTEC Business Studies course offers you a broadintroduction to the business sector and should encourage youto develop skills, knowledge and understanding in realisticbusiness contexts, such as discovering the problems andopportunities faced by local businesses and/or organising anenterprise activity. They are ideal qualifications for studentswho wish to progress to further or higher education, trainingor employment.

travel and tourismTravel and Tourism

The Travel & Tourism industry is dynamic, wide-ranging andfast-growing. Studying this subject offers you a huge varietyof employment opportunities. The course will help you on yourway to a career in the travel and tourism industry, whetheryou go straight into employment or choose to study at ahigher level at university. Even if you don't want to work inthe industry, studying Travel & Tourism Applied A-Level makesan interesting addition to your portfolio of qualifications.

Teaching and AssessmentYou will be assessed through two pieces of coursework andone examined unit each year. The coursework is intense andis focused on examining real business issues to help youachieve the largest possible gains. The examination unit ineach year will assess your knowledge and understanding aswell as your ability to apply what you know to real scenarios.The ability to manage your time well is important. Lessonswill be a mixture of teacher led activity, workshops, visits andstudent investigations. At times you may work in a group andat other times individually.

Vocational ProgressionYou can progress onto many different courses available infurther education or into direct access to one of the largestindustry’s in the world - which employs a staggering 235million people worldwide and which accounts for one intwelve jobs in the UK. A range of career opportunities awaitsyou from, Public Relations to Event Co-ordination; you willdevelop skills on this course that many employers are eagerto recruit.

Course StructureTotal credits 60 (equivalent to 1 A Level)The BTEC course consists of three compulsory core unitsplus four units from a range of optional specialist units.

A LevelYear 12 - AS

An introduction to Business Business Functions

Year 13 - A2People in Organisations Strategic Management

BTECYear 12

The Business EnvironmentBusiness Resources Introduction to Marketing

Year 13

Business CommunicationCreative Product Promotion Recruitment and Selection in Business


Inside Travel and TourismA Peoples IndustryTravel Destination

Year 13

ProjectPeople and QualityCurrent issues in Travel and Tourism

Course Requirements

Business Studies:

Grade C in GCSE Business Studiesand/or grade C in GCSE EnglishLanguage and GCSE Mathematics.

Course Requirements

Travel & Tourism:

3 C grades at GCSE including GCSEEnglish Language


46 47

LAWLaw

Law is one of the most useful and interesting academicsubjects that you can study. You will not only learn aboutdifferent areas of law, but also how the legal system operates:how law is made, how the courts work and how judgesinterpret law. A Level students become well versed in legalanalysis which develops to a higher level if they choose tostudy law at university. The skills from studying Law arehighly sought after by employers, especially the skills ofanalysis, research and communication.

Teaching and AssessmentIn Year 12 you will study the English Legal System in order togain an understanding of how law is created and applied inEngland and Wales. The course is organised into twomodules, the first is completed before Christmas and isexamined in January and includes such topics as the rule oflaw, the criminal and civil court systems and legal funding.The second module is completed and examined in May andincludes such topics as where our law comes from, such asParliament, Europe and judges, and who works in the law,such as solicitors, barristers, judges and magistrates. In Year13 you will study Criminal Law and Justice in order to gain adeeper understanding into a substantive area of law. Thecourse is organised into two modules, the content of whichoverlaps. Students will complete an examination in Januaryand June. Criminal Justice covers such topics as police powers,the prosecution and criminal trial process and sentencing.Criminal Law covers the topics of homicide, non-fatal offencesand defences.

Vocational ProgressionLaw A Level is suitable for students who wish to pursue furtherstudies in the areas of law, business studies or social sciences.It may also be suitable if you are interested in a career in thecivil service, police, armed forces, social work, publicadministration, research, banking, journalism and teaching.

Course StructureYear 12AS The English Legal System

Development of the Common Law and EquityLegal Values: Rule of law; Human Rights; Morality European Union: Institutions and SourcesThe Criminal Process: Bail; CPS; courtsThe Civil Process: Courts; ADRAccess to Justice: Sources of fundingLegislation: Statutory Interpretation; delegated legislation Doctrine of Precedent: Legal reasoning; court hierarchy Law Reform: MethodsPersonnel: Legal professionals; judges and magistrates

Year 13A2 Criminal Law and Justice

Factors which may negate Criminal Liability: defences Elements of Substantive Criminal Law: Homicide; Non-fatal offencesPolice Powers: Admissibility of evidence; remedies for breach of police powersPrinciples of Criminal law and Justice: elements of a crime; Human RightsProsecution and Criminal Trial Processes: Bail; CPS; courts Sentencing and role of courts: Principles; theories and guidelines

economicsEconomics

You should study Economics if you have an interest in findingout about what affects people’s demand for goods, how theeconomy works and how tax and exchange rates are set.Economics should appeal to academic students. It isrecommended that those considering Economics as a possibledegree course, particular a BSc, should also consider studyingMathematics at A Level.

Teaching and AssessmentYou will be assessed through essay style questions and past-paper exam questions. You will complete two exams at ASlevel and two at A2. These exams are based on real worldexamples andallow students to practice the complex economictheory learned. Application and Analysis is followed bystudents learning to become more evaluative and over-seeingof the complicated world in which we live. Students ultimatelybattle between difficult decisions to reach acceptable andjustifiable solutions.The lessons will be a mixture of teacherled activity, workshops and student investigations. At timesyou may work in a group and at other times individually.

Vocational ProgressionAs a high calibre and academic student you could either studyat university or compete in a very competitive job market.Economics will allow you to work within a range of topinstitutions from investment banking to diplomatic services,where the requirement for top economic advisors has neverbeen greater!Career opportunities include:Accountancy, Actuarial Science, Banking, Business,Commerce, Financial Services, Marketing, Politics,Statistics, Public Administration, Development andPlanning


Markets and market failureThe National Economy

Year !3Business Economics and the disrtibution of incomeThe Nationaland International Economy

Course Requirements

Economics:

Grade C in GCSE Mathematics and GradeB in GCSE English Language

Course Requirements

Law:


Economics


48 49

ictICTIf you like to: be able to select and use appropriate ICT toolsand techniques to help you carry out investigations; captureand handle data; solve problems; make decisions; presentand communicate information - then you will enjoy thiscourse.You will increase your awareness of the benefits anddrawbacks of ICT and its impact on the way people live theirlives. Course knowledge will help you to learn how to planand manage projects and work effectively with others.

Teaching and AssessmentThis two year Level 3 qualification is independently assessedwhich is based on the unit coursework standard you haveproduced. You will receive an awarding grade level of either aPass, Merit or Distinction.You can complete either a single or dual award qualification.

Entry RequirementsIn addition to the entry requirements you must have a keeninterest in ICT and demonstrate high levels of independentmotivation, commitment and initiative to be successfulthroughout this course.

Qualifications you ReceiveThe National Certificate in ICT is a double award which is theequivalent of two GCE A Level’s and the Diploma is equivalentto one.You will need to complete the full two year programmeof study to be awarded a qualification.

Course StructureUnit 1: Core Unit - Digital CommunicationsUnit 2: Core Unit - Collaborative WorkingUnit 3: Core Unit - Problem SolvingUnit 4: Core Unit - Creating a Digital ShowcaseUnit 14: Specialist Optional Unit - Cartooning andAnimationUnit 20: Specialist Optional Unit - Web Authoringl Award - 6 additional specialist UnitsUnit 16: Specialist Unit - Programming for computer gamesUnit 17: Specialist Unit - Computer games productionUnit 18: Specialist Unit - Computer games technologyUnit 21: Specialist Unit - Hosting and managing websitesUnit 23: Specialist Unit - Web security and regulationUnit 24: Specialist Unit - Internet past, present and futureEach unit has assessment objectives (AO) or tasks. Withineach task are learning objectives (LO). Each learning objectivebuilds on the previous one covered in complexity to stretchstudent knowledge based on individual ability. Each task hasa formal assessment which indicates the level of attainment.The collective value of these attainment assessmentsdetermines an overall grade for the unit completed.

mathematics andfurther mathematics

Mathematics andFurther Mathematics


MathsPure Mathematics 1Pure Mathematics 2Decision Mathematics 1

Further MathsFurther Pure Mathematics 1 Mechanics 1Statistics 1

Year 13

MathsPure Mathematics 3Pure Mathematics 4Decision Mathematics 2

Further MathsFurther Pure Mathematics 3Statistics 2Mechanics 2

A Level Mathematics is an excellent and valued qualificationwhich requires the ability to demonstrate key transferableskills that are in constant demand for both employmentmarkets and universities. Being able to understand logicalarguments and numerical information makes an ‘A Levelmathematician’ highly desirable. A Level Further Maths is ahighly respected qualification that is in demand in both theemployment markets and universities. It is useful preparationfor degrees in maths, engineering and science. It extends,deepens and broadens the areas covered in A Level Maths.The ability to understand logical arguments and numericalinformation at this level is highly impressive. We recommendthat you select A Level Maths to complement yourunderstanding of certain aspects of the course.

Teaching and AssessmentThe lessons will be teacher-led activities. You will be assessedby written examinations which take place in Years 12 and 13.

Vocational ProgressionOpportunities range from financial and economic planningthrough management services, to scientific and industrialresearch, engineering and computing. It is a foundationsubject for mathematics related degrees.

Course Requirements

OCR ICT (Single):

Merit or above (grade B ) from Level 2OCR National in ICT or equivalent atGCSE

OCR ICT (Double):

Merit/Distinction (grade B or A) fromLevel 2 OCR National in ICT orequivalent at GCSE

course requirements

Maths:

Grade B in GCSE Mathematics

Further Maths:

Grade A in GCSE Mathematics

Mathematics andFurther Mathematics


50 51

The Science Academy programme has been created to enrichand enhance the studies of students studying science atRainhill Sixth Form Centre. The aim of the academy is to giveour students experience of science in a professional contextthrough collaborations with scientists and industry specialists.

The Science Academy provides:An event each term which allows you to meet professionals from academia or industry either in-house or on visitsMaster classes from science professionalsIn depth careers advice from professional scientists including advice on personal statementsOffered 1 to 1 support with applications to science courses at university or apprenticeshipsThe opportunity to carry out your own independent research project in an area of science that you are interested inPlacements in academia or industry linked to your personalised research projectAccess to courses taught by experienced teachers with significant experience of the demands of the top universities The use of specialised ‘state of the art’ science facilities We offer a unique package of enrichment and enhancement to the traditional Post-16 Science curriculum. We aim to be a centre of excellence for science education in the North West and to provide our students with experiences that will aid their progression into science based careers or university.

What Does That Mean For You?

It means that if you chose to study one or more sciencesubjects, such as: Biology, Chemistry, Physics or AppliedScience you will automatically become a member of:

The Science Academy

and entitled to access a variety of science opportunities wehave on offer for you at Rainhill Sixth Form Centre.




The help and support for enrichment opportunities at TheScience Academy is brought to you in association through ourpartnerships and contacts with leading academic and industryprofessionals. Collectively through their expertise andguidance alongside the specialist teaching you will receive atRainhill Sixth Form Centre, we believe studying science withus will provide a unique experience for you.

The Science Academy at Rainhill Sixth FormCentre

The Science Academy at Rainhill Sixth Form Centre offers aunique package of enrichment and enhancement to thetraditional Post 16 Science curriculum. We aim to be a centreof excellence for Science education in the North West and toprovide students with experiences that will aid theirprogression into Science based careers or University.

What does this mean?

It means that any student who studies an ‘A’ Level in Biology,Chemistry, Physics or Applied Science (BTEC) will be entitledto the following initiatives we have on offer at our Sixth Form:

A visit each term to study Science in an industrial or work environmentA termly master class from a Science professionalIn depth careers advice from professional ScientistsThe opportunity to follow discrete Science courses during school holiday periodsThe opportunity to carry out your own independent work or research – with facilities to support youThe opportunity to gain UCAS points or Higher Educationcredits through Sixth Form based courses, such as: Key Skills for Leadership ?Access to courses taught by experienced teachers with significant experience of the demands of the top universitiesThe use of specialised ‘state of the art’ science facilitiesAn invitation to the annual Rainhill Science Lecture; inspirational speakers drawn from among the best scientists in the countryOffered 1 to 1 support with applications to Science courses at University

Collaboration

Our student enterprise and partnership initiatives have beendesigned and collaborated with the help and support from adiverse group of Scientists and Leading Industry Professionals.Because of the teaching, expertise and guidance you willreceive as you develop your scientific course knowledge withus, we believe your science studies at The Rainhill ScienceAcademy will be unique!

Do you have an enquiring mind, a passion for science andkeep a keen eye on developments in the scientific world? Ifso, we run the ideal solution, the Level 3 BTEC Diploma inApplied Science which offers you the chance to find out aboutthe applications of a range of different science subjects, notjust the traditional Chemistry, Biology and Physics. The courseis entirely assessed by coursework, therefore you will need tobe veryorganised, motivated and keen to find ‘things’ out foryourself. The BTEC Level 3 Applied Science is goodpreparation for many roles in the science sector, for exampleas atechnician in the areas of a laboratory or industrialscience. This qualification can also be used to progress ontoHigher Education Institutions (HEIs) to study medicallyrelated degree courses such as Forensic Science, BiomedicalScience, Pharmacy, Optometry, Radiography, Nursing or evenchemistry related courses such as Pharmaceutical Chemistry.


Assessment is based on the coursework standard you produceeither through the assignments, practical reports in theLaboratory or educational visits. The lessons will be a mixtureof teacher-led activities, practical experimental work andtheory. At times you will be expected to work in a group andat other times individually.


BTEC Level 3 Certificates and Diplomas are valued byemployers and Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). If youprefere to get a job after finishing Sixth Form you could workin:

A research laboratory in pharmaceuticals A quality control laboratory in industrial manufacturingA hospital laboratory A materials testing laboratory in the construction, paper or plastics industry A forensic science laboratory A laboratory in a school, college or university An environmental science laboratory

If you decide to go to university or college you could take aDegree or a BTEC Higher National in applied science such as:

Applied Biology, Chemistry or Physics Biomedical ScienceForensic Science, Pharmacy, Optometry, Nursing, Radiography

In other words, the course prepares you for a range of careersin:

Hospitals, Food and Drink Industry, Cosmetics Industry,Environmental Health/Science, Physical Science/Engineering.

course requirements

BTEC Science (Single)

5 GCSE’s A*-C including GCSE EnglishLanguage and a Grade C in at least 2sciences

BTEC Science (Double)

5 GCSE’s A*-C including GCSE EnglishLanguage and a Grade C in at least 2sciences or a merit or distinction from aLevel 2 Applied Science qualification

Course StructureBTEC Level 3 Diploma in Applied Science(Subsidiary Diploma) equivalent to one GCE A LevelThree Core Units

Fundamentals of scienceWorking in the science industryScientific investigation

Three other units which are likely to include:Human physiologyMicrobiologyMedical physics techniques

BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Applied Science(Diplama) equivalent to two GCE A LevelsSix Core Units

Fundamentals of scienceWorking in the science industryScientific investigationScientific practical techniquesPerceptions of scienceApplication of numbers for science technicians

Six other units which are likely to include:

ForensicsMedical physics techniquesMicrobiologyHuman physiologyChemistryElectrical circuits and their industrial applications

applied scienceApplied Sciencethe science academyThe Science Academy


52 53

yrtsimehcscisyhp yrtsimehCscisyhPIf you are a student interested in the natural world and wantto deepen your understanding of the rules that the physicalworld follows, you will enjoy this course. Studying Physicsprovides a desirable background for many degree courses,including engineering and is also an excellent preparation fora wide range of careers relating to science. We highlyrecommend that you select A Level Mathematics tocomplement your understanding of certain aspects of thecourse.


The lessons will be a mixture of teacher-led activities anddiscussions, complete numerical tasks, practical experimentalwork and research ideas. At times you will be expected towork in a group and at other times individually. The courseincludes written examinations, practical tests andassignments. There will be opportunities to attend study days,lectures and master classes.


A Level Physicists have great flexibility in the choice of furthereducation and in a subsequent career which includes;engineering, pilot studies, planetary science, robotics,radiography, quantity surveying, architecture andconstruction, electronics, technology and telecommunications.

The study of Chemistry provides a sound basis for both scienceand non-science based degree courses. A good grade inChemistry A Level is a requirement of many science degreecourses including medicine, dentistry and veterinary science.In itself, the course is a fascinating exploration of how thebuilding blocks of life are created and connected.

Teaching and AssessmentThe lessons will be a mixture of teacher-led activities andsome practical work. At times you will be expected to work ina group and at other times individually. The course includeswritten examinations and practical assignments.

Vocational ProgressionAllows students to follow courses as mentioned above and isalso a requirement for many pharmacy courses. It is abeneficial science when considering further study in science ora science related career such as chemical engineering,biochemistry or environmental health.


Particles(particles and antiparticles, photons, quarks)Quantum Phenomena(photo electricity, wave-particle duality)Electricity, Materials and Waves (refraction, diffraction, interference)

Year 13

Further mechanics(momentum, circular motion, SHM)Gravitational and electric fieldsNuclear PhysicsThermal Physics and Kinetic EnergyOption Topic - Turning points in physics (discovery of the electron, wave particle duality, special relativity)

Course Requirements

Physics:

Average GCSE profile of B with allScience modules at a grade B or above

Course Requirements

Chemistry:


Course StructureWe will be following the AQA Chemistry Courseconsisting of 3 units at A/S and 3 units at A2. Both A/Sand A2 are worth 300 UMS marks.Year 12

Unit 1Typical examples of some of the topics covered in this unitinclude:-

Atomic structure;Amount of SubstanceIntroduction to organic chemistry

Unit 2Typical examples of some of the topics covered in this unitinclude:-

Haloalkanes, Alcohols,Group 7, Equilibria,Thermodynamics

Unit 3Internal assessment of investigative and practical skills.


54 55

biologyBiology notesNotesBiology involves the study of a wide range of exciting topics,ranging from molecular biology to the study of ecosystemsand from microorganisms to mammoths Biology is never farfrom the headlines either. The human genome has beensequenced and we know the complete arrangement of thethree thousand million bases that make up human DNA. InKenya 350 people die everyday from AIDS and in South EastAsia the skies are dark with smoke as the last Borneanrainforests are burned to grow oil palms. Biologists areconcerned with all these issues. They work in the fields of cellbiology, medicine, food production and ecology... and thework they do is vital to us all.

Teaching and AssessmentThe lessons will be both theory and practically based. Thecourse includes written examinations and Investigative SkillsAssessments (ISAs) .The Biology A Level course helps studentsdevelop a number of skills:

How to collect data and evaluate itHow to investigate facts and use deductionHow to put over your point of view effectivelyHow to take responsibility for your own learning.

Vocational ProgressionBiology is one of the most popular A Level subjects in thecountry, attracting students studying a wide range of othersubjects. Many of these students enjoy the subject so muchthey eventually choose a biologically related degree course.Others go on to careers in law, computing, accounting orteaching. So, whatever field you will eventually work in, youwill find biology a very rewarding and challenging coursewhich will develop many of the skills essential for a successfulcareer.

Course StructureYear !2In the first year you’ll study three main topics: ‘Biology anddisease’, ‘The variety of living organisms’, plus a practicalassignment which is designed to sharpen your investigativeskills. Amongst them, these three topics give a solidgrounding in Biology.Year 13Year two helps you build on that firm foundation and, likeyear one, hastwo academic topics plus a practical assignment.The academic topics are‘Populations and environment’, and‘Control in cells and organisms’. The practical assignment iswhere you investigate a different area of Biology.

Course Requirements

Biology:


Notes


Design Concept: Ryan Daltyse, Rainhill Sixth Form Design StudentArtwork and Production: Jeff Warwick, PACLtdTel: 01772 434461 or 07774 706867


rainhill sixth form centre prospectus 2013

Documents

arts courses

arts curriculum

arts provision

arts academyand

studythe arts

arts option

provideour students

fine art