A-LEVELS 2016-17

Pembrokeshire COLLEGECOLEG Sir Benfro

“Pembrokeshire College is committed to ensuring that learners maximise their potential and realise their ambitions for progression to further study and careers.” Sian Thompson, Head of A-levels.

The Academic Pathway to UniversityAt Pembrokeshire College we pride ourselves in offering academic and vocational routes to university. If you decide to take the A-level route, we offer a very strong system of pastoral care and support to get you through your studies and into your first choice of university. Last year’s destinations (2015) included: Bath, Exeter, Cardiff and Kings College London universities, all of which are part of the Russell Group.

Aim for a top UK universityWe offer a diverse range of A-level subjects, from the Sciences to Media to Law. You will also be able to access award-winning learner support, even specialist mentoring for those aspiring to study medicine or enter one of the UK’s top tier universities.

Fantastic FacilitiesA modern, fully-resourced College, we have Wi-Fi access throughout, Mac suites, an extensive library, laboratories, light and dark rooms for photography, a salon, a bistro, a theatre and a refectory, all available to you.

“I was drawn to the College because of the great facilities and resources. Also, Further Maths, for both AS and A2, were timetabled, and the STEM scholarship was attractive.” A-level learner Ben Pepper.

The North Pembrokeshire FederationThrough the Federation there are currently 34 A-level courses available to study. The Federation consists of Pembrokeshire College, Sir Thomas Picton, Tasker Milward, Ysgol Dewi Sant and Ysgol Bro Gwaun. Free transport between the centres is provided to allow learners to make the most of the provision available. The current timetable and handbook can be found at:pembsfederation.org.uk

Maximising Your Opportunity

STEM £1,000 Bursary Learners wanting to study Science, Computing or Mathematics A-levels may be eligible to apply for a STEM Scholarship worth £1,000. Learners are required to have gained either A* or A grades in GCSE Science and Mathematics (on their first attempt). Award of the Scholarship will be subject to an interview by a College panel during the autumn term. Once accepted as a scholarship learner you will receive your first payment of £250 in December 2016. For further information please email admissions@pembrokeshire.ac.uk

Improve your personal statementAdd another dimension to your personal statement - get involved in trekking expeditions, rafting, exploring and working on charitable projects. So far we’ve organised trips to; Madagascar (2010), Borneo (2012), and our next trip will be Costa Rica (2017).

Investing In Your Potential

For learners to fully achieve their potential, the College has invested in a pastoral system to ensure successful completion. This includes Personal Tutors and Learner Coaches. Study Skills Advisors are also on hand to help with assignment planning and proofreading - all of which ensure that learners remain focused and motivated to achieve their qualifications.

Tutorial time has doubled over the past year with learners now receiving an hourly group tutorial as well as scheduled personal tutorials. Learners receive between 15-20 lecturing hours during the College week with the remaining hours used for directed and independent study. A-level learners regularly use the library to work on research projects and assignments, which is a good pre-cursor to university style learning.

Progress and ReportsAll learners receive an individual learning plan (eILP), which is available online and can be accessed remotely by parents. Progress is monitored weekly and eILPs updated accordingly. Parents can arrange meetings at any time during the year to discuss progress with the learner’s personal tutor; Parent Evenings are in November and reports are issued in April.

Entry Requirements:Learners wishing to study A-levels at Pembrokeshire College will be required to gain a minimum of 5 GCSE’s at grades A-C to include English, Mathematics and/or Science, dependent on the subjects chosen. Additionally, learners will normally be required to have a minimum GCSE grade B in the subject or related subject being studied at A-level. Entry grades for Psychology require a grade B in Mathematics and English.

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More able and talented learners (MAT)All A-level learners receive UCAS (University & Colleges Application Service) support, there is also extra support via our MAT programme for high achievers. A panel of senior academics have been selected to help learners develop areas of excellence through challenging extension work and specialist guidance and mentoring.

Specialist mentoring support includes:• A vibrant enrichment programme.• The opportunity to take Advanced Extension / STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) papers in certain

subjects.• The opportunity to apply for a STEM scholarship (£1,000).• Preparation for applications to leading universities by the Head

of Safeguarding and Learner Services (Co-Chair of the UCAS Standing Group for Wales).

• Mock interviews with members of the Executive and Management Team.

• One-to-one mentoring sessions with a member of the Management Team.

• Participation in a Peer Graduate Mentoring Programme.• Encouragement and support to take part in enrichment learning

e.g. Medlink, University of Nottingham programmes, Villiers Park/ Educational Trust and Sutton Trust Summer Schools.

• Guidance and support in finding opportunities for work placements required for highly competitive courses/careers.

• Participation in holiday revision classes.• Careers talks and presentations from industry and university

professionals.• Visits to Oxbridge and Russell Group Universities.• Opportunity to spend time with Oxbridge Consultants.• Be a member of the Pembrokeshire College STEM Careers

Academy.

“MAT prepared me for medical school entry at Durham University; the advice and guidance was invaluable.” Vinnie Daniels now studying Medicine at Durham.

“I set my sights early on going to a top university; the MAT programme helped me with my university application and interview.” James Taylor now studying Engineering at Oxford University.

Mentors for Medical Entry: Maxine Thomas, Head of Safeguarding and Learner Services at Pembrokeshire College and Dr Vellupillai Vipulendran, College Advisor.Oxbridge Consultants: Maxine Thomas and Dr Hywel Davies, Former Director of Admissions, Aberystwyth University.Learners will also participate in the Oxbridge Ambassador Programmes.Timetabled Sessions: • Oxbridge Programme - 3 slots per term.• Medical and VetMed Programme - 3 slots per term. Mentoring Sessions:• Bi-termly appointments to be agreed between mentors and mentees. • Monthly appointments for medical and veterinary learners.STEM Revision Papers (Mathematics): Available at £42.70 per paper.

Dr Nick Davies, Director of International Business Development – Worldwide Clinical Trials, inspiring learners at a recent Pembrokeshire College MAT event.

Get yourself heard?Join the College’s debating society to express your opinions and views on topical and sometimes contentious subject matter. It’s also a great club to meet new people, while improving your debating and presentation skills.

Aberystwyth University Anglia RuskinUniversity

Bath Spa University Bath University

Brighton Institute of Modern Music

University of Birmmingham

Bournemouth University

Brunel University

University of the West of England

Canterbury Christ Church University

Coleg Sir Gar

University of Chester

University of Central Lancashire

Cardiff Met Cardiff University

De Montford University

University of Dundee

University of Exeter

Falmouth University University of Gloucestershire

Glyndwr UniversityHarper Adams University

King’s College London

Keele University

University of Kent

University of Leeds Leeds College of Art

Lancaster University

Loughborough University University of Leicester

London South Bank University Tech Music School University of Arts London

Manchester Met

Plymouth University Plymouth College of Art

Pembrokeshire College

Queen’s University Belfast

Swansea Met Swansea University UWTSD

Sheffield Hallam

Southapmton Solent University of Southampton

University of Surrey

University of Ulster

University of South Wales

University of Worcester

“There is a great mix of people in the College which I will really miss, the lecturers have been fantastic - I would definitely recommend the College” Georgia Geary, is now reading Medicine at Bristol University

0800 9 776 788 | pembrokeshire.ac.uk | admissions@pembrokeshire.ac.uk

Pembrokeshire COLLEGECOLEG Sir Benfro

197 COLLEGE LEARNERS

PROGRESSED TO UNIVERSITY

IN 2014/15

Loughborough University University of Leicester

0800 9 776 788 | pembrokeshire.ac.uk | admissions@pembrokeshire.ac.uk

If you are considering A-level study after GCSEs, but have you explored the style of study expected from you to achieve your first choice university?

YOU ARE HEREGCSE study requires you to learn the content of at least 10 subjects.At A-level you will undertake up to four A-levels where you will analyse, evaluate and understand your chosen subjects in-depth.

YOU ARE HERE

ASPIRE TO A-LEVELS

ENGAGE WITH YOUR SUBJECTYour workload will increase substantially from GCSE level, so it is important to choose subjects that you are interested in and will enjoy.

REVISIT, REVIEW, REVISEGet into good habits. Appraise your work, be objective, be critical, check your perspective. Be consistent - use resources for assignment writing, time planning, proof-reading and Moodle for learning resources.

USE YOUR INITIATIVEThe leap from GCSE includes taking responsibility for your own learning. Remember - independent learning prepares you for university.

GO ABOVE & BEYONDA-level study requires you to go above and beyond what you have understood in the classroom. You will be expected to think critically- engage, analyse and problem solve.

A-level study includes a blend of classroom, online and independent learning. You will be taught by post-16 specialists - lecturers that have both academic and relevant industry experience.

GET ORGANISED & IMPROVE YOUR TIME MANAGEMENTAlthough subjects will vary, you will be expected to study for at least four hours extra per subject, per week. Don’t waste your free time, use it wisely!

EXPLORE NOT REGURGITATEA pass isn’t good enough - READ relevant periodicals, books, podcasts etc. Explore outside the set reading, read around your subject and consolidate. Start to develop an analytical mind.

This course is intended for those who wish to explore the potential of drawing and painting through observed study. This can be an exhilarating and fast paced experience but it takes a committed attitude to learning and a trust in your lecturer’s advice. You will study and analyse the work of other artists and use this knowledge to enhance and influence your own work. This forms a large proportion of the assessment structure.

The AS/A2 Fine Art A-level is delivered by two experienced Art and Design lecturers who are both practitioners. The philosophy of this study is an emphasis on ‘observation’ of subject, learning to look and understand what is being seen and how this can be translated through the expressive nature of materials and individual investigation of the subject.

FINE ART

Great subjects, great teaching...We employ teaching staff who have specialist academic post-16 qualifications and real industry expertise. This combination ensures that you receive high quality teaching that is both engaging and stimulating. Choose from a diverse range of subjects from the arts and humanities to a wide range of sciences and social science subjects. Class sizes are small, guaranteeing you the best possible start at advanced level.

AS/A2 study Programme consists of the following:Learners can choose three or four A-levels (depending on their ability and aspirations).• Learners choosing WBQ as an option will not have to attend ESW sessions.• Learners not selecting WBQ will have to achieve the six Essential Skills

over the two years, some of these are timetabled in their group tutorial sessions. Learners can get exemption if they can provide ESW certificates at Level 3 in the following: Communications, Application of

Number, Information Technology, Working with Others, Improving own Learning and Problem Solving.

• Learners will be expected to attend both personal and group tutorials and these are mandatory timetabled events.

PHOTOGRAPHY

If you want to discover the thrill of expressing yourself through still images then this is the course for you.

If you have a passion for fine art photography this course will enable you to study and analyse the work of renowned photographers and artists, using their work to inspire and influence your own. Throughout your time studying this creative subject you will be given many opportunities to practice on location as well as in our studio, darkroom and digital darkroom. We will strive to broaden your imaginative and creative powers whilst developing your analytical, documenting, research and writing skills.

Photography A-level demands a high level of commitment - you will need to be self-motivated as many assignments are worked on outside of lecture time, including research and written assignments, with a large element of the course content assessed by written work.

You will study:• how to research and plan• how to evaluate outcomes• composition• how to use a 35mm film SLR camera• how to develop films• studio techniques• working on location• darkroom black and white printing techniques• digital photography (Photoshop)

You will study:• what drawing and painting is and what it can be• what is good observational study• the use of formal elements - line, tone, colour, mark• a variety of media and techniques• contextual application• how to evaluate outcomes through critique• how to express and explore ideas visually

A-level Drama puts a strong focus on practical dramatic skills as well as textual analysis. You will work as part of a team to create performances from both text and stimuli, using the ideas and techniques of theatrical practitioners. You will develop your ability to study and analyse text as an actor and as a director. These skills will help to prepare you for further study at further or higher education levels. *Subject to WJEC approval

You will study:• an influential theatre practitioner and the development and presentation

of a text-based performance that uses the techniques of the featured practitioner

• how to produce a creative log and an evaluation• ‘Text in Theatre’: exam questions based on one set text• ‘Text in Action’: the creation, development and performance of two contrasting pieces of theatre, supported by a process and evaluation

report• ‘Text in Performance’: two exam questions, one of which is an essay,

based on two different set texts

DRAMA & THEATRE STUDIES*

Have you noticed that media messages are increasingly becoming a part of our daily lives, whether it’s accessing videos on your smartphone, watching TV ads, listening to the radio, looking at posters or listening to music?

MEDIA STUDIES

Choosing this course will help develop the analytical, creative and evaluative skills concerned with all forms of media production from an audience and institutional perspective. You will learn about the history, development, contemporary use and relevance of magazines, newspapers, the internet, radio and advertising.

Our goal is to enable you to form your own personal opinion on a wide range of topics, whilst developing your knowledge and understanding of: communication, culture, politics and citizenship.

You will study:• how to develop critical understanding of the media• production processes, technologies and other relevant contexts• how to develop research skills and their application in practical work• the contemporary media landscape• the media and its influential role in today’s society

Pembrokeshire College was the first institution in the county to offer the Welsh Baccalaureate. This qualification provides learners with a broad range of skills and experiences, designed to equip them for the world of work in the twenty-first century, whilst aiming to give parity of esteem between academic and vocational courses. The qualification is becoming increasingly recognised by both universities and employers as a broadening and enriching educational experience.

On completion you will receive a grade from A*-C, equivalent in UCAS points to an A-level (120 points for a grade A), although it is important to check that it is accepted at individual institutions.

You will study:• communication• numeracy• digital literacy• planning and organisation• creativity and innovation• critical thinking and problem solving• personal effectiveness

WELSH BACCALAUREATE (WBQ)

The Business Studies A-level aims to encourage learners to develop a critical understanding of business organisations, the markets they serve and the process of adding value. In addition, candidates will develop an awareness of the impact external factors, such as economic, ethical, governmental and legal issues have on businesses. They will also acquire a range of skills, including decision-making, problem solving and an ability to evaluate where appropriate.

You will study:• planning and financing in business• managing a business• strategies for success• the business environment and managing change

The law affects every person every day of their lives in some form or another, whether it’s licensing fees for our television, consumer law when we buy something from a shop or not being discriminated against because of our age or ethnicity. So the law is much more familiar to us than we think.

If you are good at History, Sociology or English Literature and Language you should be good at Law. It uses a similar method when answering questions in that it is an analysis of cause and effect and all answers must be backed up by using evidence. This could be a piece of legislation, case law or quotation from a theorist. For example, it is very similar to using a quote from a text in English Literature, studying the context of when the text was written and the effect of that quote. So studying Law is not so difficult as it may sound!

You will study:• how to develop knowledge and understanding of selected areas of law

and the legal system in England and Wales• how to develop an understanding of legal method and reasoning• how to develop the techniques of logical thinking and the skills necessary to analyse and solve problems by applying legal rules

BUSINESS

LAW

• how to develop the ability to communicate legal arguments and conclusions with reference to appropriate legal authority• how to develop a critical awareness of the changing nature of law in

society

This course aims to encourage learners to develop their interest and enjoyment of the English language and literature through reading widely, independently and critically. It combines well with a range of other advanced studies as it develops empathy, creativity, communication, debate and individual thought. It is also a forum for exchanging ideas.

You will study:• a comparative analysis of poetry and unseen text• creative writing• post-1900 drama• non-literacy text study• Shakespeare• unseen texts and prose study• critical and creative genres

ENGLISH LANGUAGE & LITERATURE

PINTER

This course aims to encourage learners to develop their interest and enjoyment in literary studies through reading widely, independently and critically, as well as introducing them to the traditions of English Literature. The subject is acknowledged and respected by employers and universities alike. It combines well with a huge range of other advanced studies as it develops empathy, creativity, communication, debate and individual thought. It is also a forum for exchanging ideas.

You will study:• prose fiction pre-1900• drama• poetry post-1900• poetry and unseen poetry• Shakespeare

ENGLISH LITERATURE

Through a variety of teaching methods such as: taught lessons, peer teaching, group work and a range of activities, your understanding of the implications of modern Biology will be developed along with the importance of understanding environmental, ethical, and social issues and their consequences. Through a number of practical activities including, genetic engineering, food testing, heart and kidney dissection, chromatography, respiration in insects and plants and bacterial experiments, we aim to give our learners the confidence and knowledge in this subject to progress into their chosen field.

You will study:• basic biochemistry and cell organisation• biodiversity and physiology of body systems• energy, homeostasis and the environment• variation, inheritance and options• practical skills

BIOLOGY

CHEMISTRY

This course provides a broad introduction to the three main areas of Chemistry (Organic, Inorganic, Physical) as well as covering the key concepts of Chemistry such as structures of compounds and how and why they react. Over the two years, learners will also develop their practical skills including planning and carrying out their own experiments. Learners will need to complete a significant amount of private study over the two years.

You will study:• the language of chemistry, structure of matter and simple reactions• energy, rate and chemistry of carbon compounds• physical and inorganic chemistry• organic chemistry and analysis

The Environmental Studies course enables learners to gain a deep and well-informed insight into the environment, and the scientific processes that control and affect it. The central theme is the development of an understanding of how different events and cycles within the environment interrelate, how they influence subsequent environmental events, the human impacts on these events and cycles, and the strategies that can be used to minimise the problems caused. Key aspects include areas such as Wildlife Conservation, Pollution, Global Climate Change, Energy, Pollution, Food Production, Population Growth and Sustainability.

You will study:• the living environment• the physical environment• energy resources and environmental pollution• biological resources and sustainability

ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES

PHYSICS

This course is ideal for logical thinkers who have a strong interest in how things work. You will develop a deeper understanding of physics and its applications from Newton to the present day. Basic principles introduced at GCSE level are looked at in greater detail giving you an insight into the controlling forces of the universe.

Complemented by subjects such as mathematics, chemistry and biology, this qualification is an essential requirement for physics and engineering university courses. For those going on to study other subjects, it is highly regarded by universities.

You will study:• force and motion• solid materials• astrophysics• particle physics• current electricity

• waves• the properties of light• lasers

Are you fascinated by the human brain? Do you want to study the intricacies of human behaviour and gain knowledge about cognitive and developmental psychology? Throughout this course you will learn about a number of issues related to the mind, including, behavioural patterns and abnormalities focusing on the norm - but what is normal?

You will study scientific methods and renowned theories to help source answers and underpin the fundamentals of this subject. During your time on this course you will grow academically and develop transferable skills, which can be used to evaluate, provide relevant evidence and help you dive deeper into the study of human development.

You will study:• approaches: biological, psychodynamic, cognitive, behaviourist and positive• research methods and key research and contemporary debates• implications in the real world• addictions and stress

PSYCHOLOGY

A-level Sociology is ideal for learners who appreciate an enthusiastic, knowledgeable debate on a wide range of social changes in contemporary society. This is a complex course that will help you understand and evaluate a number of theories and controversial ideas related to the science of the fundamental laws of social relations. During your time on this course you will develop your understanding of the origin, development and main functions of human society.

You will study:• socialisation and culture• culture in society• power and control methods• social divisions• research methodologies

SOCIOLOGY

This course is intended to extend and develop the mathematical knowledge and skills that you obtain when studying A-level Mathematics. It is aimed at those who have a real passion for the subject and want to take up addition-al, in-depth modules. Mathematics A-level is sufficient for most learners and Further Mathematics is only taken by the more able who aim to study mathematical subjects at degree level.

You will study:• further pure• mechanics 2• statistics 2• decision mathematics 1• numerical Methods

FURTHER MATHEMATICS

You will study:• an introduction to advanced mathematics• concepts for advanced mathematics• statistics 1• mechanics 1• methods of advanced mathematics• applications of advanced mathematics

Problem solving, logic, analysing solutions and improving numeracy techniques all constitute the core of this course. Maths is a fantastic subject to have at A-level and is widely acknowledged by employers and universities. Many learners are taking mathematics as a support subject and their needs are met by the provision of a breadth of several distinct strands of the subject: Pure Maths; Mechanics; Statistics and Decision Maths. If it is a topic you have so far enjoyed then what better reason to continue study-ing it!

MATHEMATICS

0800 9 776 788 | pembrokeshire.ac.uk | admissions@pembrokeshire.ac.uk

The information in this booklet was correct at time of print.Please contact us if you would like this information in Welsh.