ART AS/A2
If you are creative and want to express yourself through painting and drawing, sculpture, photography, textiles or
a combination of any of these disciplines, then A-level Art is for you. This course will enable you to get hands-on
experience in a range of materials, learn new skills and build on existing ones. Drawing is a core activity and this
course will help you improve your overall standard, regardless of your ability. You will be encouraged to attend
Life Drawing Classes which will enable you to enhance your portfolio and not only improve your skills but also
your final grades.
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BIOLOGY AS/A2
Are you interested in how your body works? Do you wonder why your heart beats faster in certain situations? Do
you want to know the details of the science that is in the news? Are you concerned about the
environment, genetic engineering or new diseases? Or do you just want to keep your options open and study a
subject that is increasingly relevant in our society and expanding all the time? Then Biology at A-level is a
subject for you.
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BUSINESS STUDIES AS/A2
Business Studies will help you to develop a critical understanding of how businesses operate and will give you a
better understanding of the economic dimensions of our society. It will help develop research skills,
communication skills and analytical and evaluation skills, which can be applied to a range of circumstances and
situations. The course is made up of four units:
- Planning and Financing a Business.
- Managing a Business.
- Strategies for Success.
- The Business Environment and Managing Change.
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CHEMISTRY AS/A2
Are you interested in what goes on around you? If you are, then Chemistry is the A-level for you! Chemistry is
responsible for the clothes and make-up you wear, the food you eat, and the ‘stress balls’ you squeeze. It provides
your headache tablets, hair dyes and CDs - so what are you waiting for? There are six units in all, three AS Units and three
A2 units:
- AS - Chemistry for Life.
- AS - Chemistry of Natural Resources.
- AS - Chemistry in Practice.
- A2 -Chemistry of Materials.
- A2 - Chemistry by Design.
- A2 - Chemistry Individual Investigation.
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COMPUTER STUDIES AS/A2
If you are interested in learning and understanding more about computers, enjoy using them to solve problems,
and are confident and competent on the keyboard, then consider taking this subject at A-level. Computing is an
extremely useful subject as it is used in the workplace in so many different areas. Some of the skills you will learn
are expected at university. There are four units in all, two AS units and two A2 units:
- AS - Problem solving, Programming, Data Representation and Practical Exercise.
- AS - Computer components, The stored program concept and the Internet.
- A2 - Problem solving, Programming, Operating systems, Databases and Networking.
- A2 - The Practical Project.
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CRITICAL THINKING AS
This course is at present only available as an AS in this school. The course aims at developing thinking skills and
in particular will enable you to:
- Analyse arguments to see how they work.
- Criticise arguments by identifying flaws in them.
- Weigh up two sides of an argument and give a final judgment.
- Develop arguments to make them stronger.
- Construct your own arguments in a logical and convincing way.
- Assess the credibility of evidence and sources.
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DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY AS/A2
If you would like to further your knowledge, skills and understanding within the stimulating environment of
Design and Technology, you will have the opportunity with the new A-level course.
You will study Product Design and will be able to focus on a variety of materials including papers, boards,
plastics, woods, metals and textiles which will build upon your existing excellent knowledge of this subject.
If you have the enthusiasm and drive to produce high quality outcomes with creative flair, then Design and Technology
is for you.
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DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY FOOD AS
If you would like to further your knowledge, skills and understanding of Food Technology you will have the
opportunity with this new AS Level course. This course will follow on from the GCSE Food Technology course and
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DRAMA & THEATRE STUDIES A2
This course is aimed at students who have already undertaken the AS course in Year 11. It is for those who have a love of the theatre,
who enjoy working on a practical basis and who have good communications skills. Employers and Colleges like to see Drama and Theatre Studies as it shows you
have skills in creating, presenting, communicating and in working as part of a team. If you want to work towards a career in theatre, be it in an acting, directing or
technical capacity, then Drama & Theatre Studies is an obvious choice.
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BTEC LEVEL 3 DIPLOMA IN PERFORMING ARTS - (Equivalent to two A-levels)
The BTEC Level 3 Diploma offers students the opportunity to study the world of the Performing Arts at work. There
are a vast number of options that they can choose from and there will be opportunities to be more involved with
outside agencies that employ people in the Performing Arts sector, the second biggest employer in the
country.
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ENGLISH LANGUAGE AS/A2
English Language will appeal to those of you with a general and wide interest in both spoken and written
language. You will learn about the history of language, how and why it changes, and how it is acquired. Some of the
course will be entirely new to you, other aspects will continue from the English course at GCSE. Studying English Language will:
- Encourage you to develop your interests and enjoyment in the use of English, through learning more about its structures and functions.
- Enable you to learn to express yourself in speech and writing with increasing competence and sophistication.
- Help you to understand the use of language in different contexts.
- Allow you to carry out your own research into an area which interests you.
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ENGLISH LITERATURE AS/A2
English Literature will appeal to those of you who have a specific interest in reading and analysing novels, poetry
and drama. It will also appeal if you thrive on argument and debate. Why study English Literature at A-level?
- Studying English Literature encourages you to develop an interest and enjoyment in literary studies through reading
widely, independently and critically.
- Provides you with an introduction to the traditions of English Literature and critical theory.
- Introduces you to a wide range of Literature from different cultures and perspectives.
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FRENCH AS/A2
If you would like to be able to communicate confidently and effectively in French, experience the cultural
background and heritage of France through studying contemporary issues in the French language and maybe one
day work in France, then French at A-level is for you. It will enable you to:
- Develop a deeper understanding of the spoken and written forms of French from a variety of registers.
- Communicate confidently, clearly and effectively, using increasingly accurate, complex and varied language.
- Develop critical insights into, and contact with, the contemporary society, cultural background and heritage of
the countries where French is spoken.
- Have a suitable foundation for further study and/or practical use of French.
- Enhance your employment prospects, facilitate foreign travel and experience the enjoyment and motivation of improving
your linguistic skills.
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FURTHER MATHEMATICS AS/A2
An increasing number of students are choosing to take Further Maths and an increasing number of institutions look
favourably on students who have followed this subject to AS or A-level. It adds both breadth and depth to the study
of Mathematics and introduces topics such as Complex Numbers and Linear Programming which are used in many other subjects.
The course is taught by a dedicated team of subject specialists and, unlike some schools, Further Maths is allocated the same number of lessons as all other AS/A2’s.
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GEOGRAPHY AS/A2
Geography explores the relationship between human populations and the natural environment.
If you are interested in global challenges, like population growth, migration, development or environmental issues like
global warming and natural disasters, then A-level geography is a good choice. If you want a subject that doesn’t commit
you totally to ‘Sciences’ or ‘Arts’, Geography gives you something of each. It combines scientific rigour with a strong
human interest, and links naturally with a wide range of A-level subjects.
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GERMAN AS/A2
If you would like to be able to communicate confidently and effectively in German, experience the cultural
background and heritage of Germany through studying contemporary issues in the German language and maybe
one day even work in Germany then German at A-level is for you. It will enable you to:
- Develop an understanding of the spoken and written forms of German from a variety of registers.
- Communicate confidently, clearly and effectively, using increasingly accurate, complex and varied language.
- Develop critical insights into, and contact with, the contemporary society, cultural background and heritage of
the countries where German is spoken.
- Have a suitable foundation for further study, enhance your employment prospects, facilitate foreign travel and
experience the enjoyment and motivation of improving your linguistic skills.
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HISTORY AS/A2
If you are fascinated by the past and interested in how countries have changed over time, how individuals
have made their mark and how ideas and attitudes have had their effect on people, then history is for you! History is a popular
subject at A-level, it enables you to increase your knowledge and understanding of the past through research and teaches
you how to structure and communicate your findings. Achieving success in History at AS and at A-level shows you can explain
something competently and that you can make choices and reach decisions based on evidence. There are four units, two at AS level and two at A2 level,
as follows:
- AS - From Pitt to Peel: British History 1783 - 1846.
- AS - The Risorgimento: Italian unification 1815 - 1870.
- A2 - Historical interpretations and Investigations - Gladstone and Disraeli.
- A2 - Historical Themes – Civil Rights in the USA 1865-1992.
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ICT AS
If you are interested in learning and understanding more about applications, and are confident and competent on
the keyboard, then consider taking this subject at AS Level. AS Information Communication Technology (ICT) is
an extremely useful subject as it is used in the workplace in so many different areas.
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LAW AS/A2
If you are interested in the world around you, news and current affairs, or politics and society, then law is the subject
for you. It underpins every aspect of life and is a fascinating subject to study, with many interesting and unusual
cases to investigate. Studying Law at A-level will:
- Develop knowledge and understanding of selected areas of the law in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
- Develop techniques of logical thinking and research.
- Develop skills in critical and analytical thinking.
- Develop writing skills.
- Encourage an interest in current affairs and developments in law, and how and why they come about,
often for political or social reasons.
- Provide the skills to develop a critical awareness of the changing nature of law in society.
- Enable an understanding of legal method and reasoning and the skills necessary to analyse and solve
problems by applying legal rules.
- Develop the ability to communicate legal arguments and conclusions with reference to appropriate legal authority.
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MATHEMATICS AS/A2
As well as being an important subject in its own right, Mathematics is a vital support for the study of many sciences
and other subjects. It provides students with skills in analysis, problem solving, data analysis and modelling.
Mathematics is a popular choice at The Kings of Wessex with in excess of 50 students completing the AS
each year. The course is taught by a dedicated team of subject specialists. Studying Mathematics at A-level requires
students to be able to focus on big concepts and minute detail at the same
time. This makes the subject enjoyable, challenging and highly valued by universities and employers.
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MEDIA STUDIES AS/A2
Media studies will offer you an opportunity to explore different media (film, television, press, music and
advertising) and the role they play in your life. As well as developing your enjoyment of media texts, you will be
encouraged to acquire critical and practical skills through the production and analysis of a variety of media texts.
The course is demanding but very rewarding and is excellent preparation for a wide range of post-18 study and
employment. By studying this subject you will:
- Develop a framework for critical analysis of media texts.
- Acquire production skills, such as photography, video
making, digital image manipulation, and print and web design.
- Extend your research, discussion and writing skills.
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MUSIC AS/A2
If you are passionate about music, open to listening and appreciating different musical styles and wish to
further your own musical skills and understanding, then Music is the subject for you. You will need to have
instrumental/vocal skills equivalent to about Grade 5 and have a good grasp of musical notation.
However, this is not a specialised course just for the more advanced performer or those wishing to study music at
university; it will enable you to gain the skills to flourish through the range of diverse activities. There are six units on this course, three at AS
Level and three at A2 Level:
- AS - Influences on Music, Listening and study of Set Works - Mozart Symphony 41 K551 1st & 3rd Movt.Develop a framework for critical
analysis of media texts.
- AS - Creating Musical Ideas, 3 - 6 Minute Composition.
- AS - Interpreting Musical Ideas, Two 5 - 8 minute performances.
- A2 - Music in Context, Listening and study of Set Works - Vaughan Williams Symphony No. 5 in D Major.
- A2 - Developing Musical Ideas, 5 - 8 minute composition.
- A2 - A Musical Performance, A 10 - 15 minute recital.
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PHOTOGRAPHY AS/A2
Photography is a creative subject that stretches the imagination, allowing you to look at yourself and your
environment in a creative way. If you wish to develop as a photographer, experience the creative process in darkroom skills, find out about the historical
and contemporary practice of black and white photography, colour photography AND experience digital image making, then this course is definitely for you!
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PHYSICAL EDUCATION AS/A2
Do you have a keen interest in Physical Education and Sport and would like to study it as an academic subject?
Would you like to develop your knowledge, skills and performance to a high standard in your chosen sport? Would
you like to go to college or university and/or pursue a career in coaching, teaching, sports administration, leisure
recreation management, sports physiotherapy or the health and fitness industry? If the answer is yes, then AS/A2
PE is for you.
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PHYSICS AS/A2
Physics is the science of nature in the broadest sense. Also known as natural philosophy, physics involves the study of matter
and energy, ranging from sub-atomic particles through to the universe as a whole. If you are interested in understanding how things work and
why they are as they are, if you have ever wondered why the sky is blue, how the universe is evolving, what the
fundamental particles of nature are, then Physics is for you.
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PSYCHOLOGY AS/A2
Why do you behave the way you do? Feel the way you do? Think the way you do?
What makes us different and what makes us the same?
These are just a few of the questions explored in Psychology, a fascinating and relevant subject to study at A-level.
The AS course will challenge you to think about important life issues such as how likely you are to help someone in need,
how far you would go to make someone obey you if you were in a position of authority, and whether your memory is really as
reliable as you think it is.
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RELIGIOUS STUDIES & PHILOSOPHY AS/A2
Religious Studies at A-level is designed to develop an interest in Philosophy and Ethics and to take Religious
Studies to a new level of academic rigour. It develops a critical approach to current controversial ethical issues
and an enquiring attitude towards traditional philosophical arguments. This subject is ideal for anyone who enjoys arguing about
philosophical or ethical issues. It provides an introduction to many of the most important philosophical and ethical issues,
enabling them to be thought through in a logical and informed way.
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SOCIOLOGY AS/A2
If you are the type who doesn't necessarily follow the crowd (but are fascinated by their behaviour), the type who
is truly interested in what is going on in the world, then sociology should interest you. A successful Sociology student will show that they can
evaluate a number of theories and viewpoints, create and sustain arguments and communicate complex ideas effectively. There are four modules,
two at AS level and two at A2 level, as follows:
- AS - Exploring Socialisation, Culture and Identity.
- AS - Topics within Socialisation, Culture and Identity.
- A2 - Power and Control and Social Stratification.
- A2 - Exploring Inequality of Difference.
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TEXTILES AS/A2
If you are a creative individual then A-level Textiles offers you the opportunity to develop your skills in fashion,
printed, constructed and embroidered textiles. You will also be given opportunities to visit major exhibitions,
galleries and museums. Studying Textiles will enable you to:
- Develop skills in printed, constructed, embroidered textiles, and fashion.
- Develop an awareness of contemporary and traditional textile and fashion designers.
- Develop an awareness of functional design, as well as the purely decorative aspects of textiles.
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