Oaklands Catholic Sixth Form College

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Oaklands Catholic Sixth Form CollegeMatthew Quinn Headteacher & Judith Hoar Head of Sixth Form

contents We believe…

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Outstanding support page four

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Science and Social Science

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Design & Technology, Food, Health & Social

Care and ICT page eight

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Business Studies, Maths and Economics

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English, Law, Drama and Theatre Studies

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French and Spanish page twelve

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Geography, History and RE

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Media, Music, Art and PE

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We are delighted to be able to introduce you to our Sixth Form Prospectus and hope you will be inspired by what you read. At Oaklands, success is our business, our mission is to ensure that you succeed.

We hope therefore that, having chosen Oaklands at 16+, you will make the most of the opportunities offered to you here so that you will leave with a sense of satisfaction and achievement, having furthered your career possibilities, broadened your education, continued your personal development and last, but not least, having enjoyed yourself at Oaklands Catholic Sixth Form College.

Welcome to…

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that there are considerable advantages in choosing OaklandsWe recognise that students of differing abilities succeed in different ways. We welcome students of all abilities into our Sixth Form and we have as our main aim our commitment to your academic, spiritual, personal and social development, irrespective of the course which you choose to follow.

We care about you and want you to succeed, to this end you will join small teaching groups and experience a caring ethos. Oaklands offers an attractive alternative to the larger institutions.

Success results from meeting students needs. In the Sixth Form we run a broad range of Level 3 courses, including over 24 options at A2 and AS

Students at Oaklands succeed because they are prepared to work hard and acquire self discipline and responsibility towards their work. They succeed in an adult atmosphere where they are treated as individuals.

We believe…

“If you care at all, you’ll get some results. If you care enough, you’ll get incredible results.”Jim Rohn

Students at Oaklands Sixth Form succeed in gaining places at some of the country’s leading universities including Oxbridge. Many students go on to gain employment in leading national and international companies; that is why Oaklands has the reputation for the highest academic standards within a strong caring Christian Community where each individual student is valued.

For many years Oaklands Sixth Form has welcomed students from other schools who are not Catholic. They experience success because they ‘buy into’ the ethos and unique experience that Oaklands Sixth Form has to offer.

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Daily contact with your Personal Tutor All students at Oaklands have an experienced personal tutor who they will see every day. This is a unique service that Oaklands Sixth Form offers. You will join a tutor group of about 18 Students. Your tutor will make sure that you receive all the support necessary to complete your studies successfully. Tutors will discuss your work with you, help you set targets, help you with any study problems and also advise on careers or personal problems that may arise.

Small group sizesBecause we are a smaller Sixth Form this enables us to have more personal teaching groups, averaging 10-12 at A2 in each subject. Students tell us continuity and progression are high priorities. The highly qualified staff get to know you well. In a small Sixth Form relationships are soon built up, staff will quickly learn your strengths and areas for development and this will help make the transition from Year 11 to the Sixth Form.

EMA If you are between 16 and 18 years of age and are studying a full time course you may be eligible for an allowance of up to £30 per week.

Supplementary StudiesHaving the ability to evaluate today’s society within the context of Christian values prepares students for the challenges and dilemmas that face them as they move ahead with their careers. All students undertake a course in Philosophy, Religion and Ethics which leads to a Diocesan accredited certificate.

Skills for LifeDuring your time at Oaklands, you will have the opportunity to develop a range of skills, this starts with Sixth Form induction. Students can access a wide variety of activities including practice interviews, work experience, Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, voluntary service, residential experiences and University taster events. The skills you develop will help you to succeed in the Sixth Form and beyond. They support your learning, training, work and life in general. You will develop problem-solving skills, learn how to work effectively in teams and identify strategies for improving your own learning and performance.

Whatever your current level, the benefits of improving these essential skills include:• Potential for better grades • Improved job prospects• Enhanced career development opportunities• Increased self-confidence• Better opportunities for progression to University• Whatever course or career path you choose, these skills are of value to you.

Reviewing progressBecause we want you to succeed we will review your progress with you on a number of occasions throughout the year. This will help us and you with strategies to ensure you reach your goal.

Enrichment ProgrammeUnlike school, you will have some spare time in the week and students are invited to take part in a range of exciting and rewarding enrichment opportunities. This is a great opportunity to meet other students who are undertaking different courses in a different environment.

Additional Courses offered this year include:• AS Critical Thinking• AS Science in Society• GCSE Italian• Community Service• Music tuition• Duke of Edinburgh Scheme• Government & Politics

Sport including • Rugby• Trampolining• Basketball• Football• Cricket • Health Suite

Outstanding support Oaklands School has an excellent reputation for care and guidance this continues into the Sixth Form. If you join Oaklands from another school we will make every effort to ensure that you settle in and feel at home. We want all students to enjoy their time with us. We feel that Sixth Form College should not just be about working towards qualifications but also about expanding your horizons – whether that means by making new friends or getting help with University entrance or a career.

We offer…

Field work

Field work

Leavers Meal and Celebration

Iceland

Thorpe Park At the Globe

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Science and Social Science

BiologyBiology is at the forefront of an intellectual revolution which, with computing and quantum mechanics, is revolutionising the way we view the world. It appeals to both Science and Arts students and can be successfully combined with other sciences, a modern language or English Literature.

Chemistry“Chemistry is everything”, from the quantum world of atoms and molecules to the macroscopic world of stars and galaxies. Chemistry is pivotal to Science. It links with Physics to understand the fundamental chemical and physical processes in our universe and with Biological Sciences to understand the processes of life itself. The course makes available to the student the factual knowledge required for the subject and discusses its underlying principles and theories in a form which always encourages the students to think for themselves.

Physics‘God does not play dice’ and Physics is nothing less than an attempt to discover and explain the fundamental workings of the entire physical Universe. From driving to college in your fi rst car, as you listen to your music/iPod, to time travel in the TARDIS, Physics has transformed the world we live in. Be a part of the A Level Physics course and stay tuned to the technological development it drives, as these will only accelerate in the coming years.

PsychologyAre you fascinated by human behaviour? The ultimate goal of psychology is to help us understand not only how people behave but also why they behave in particular ways. Psychology combines the methods and terminology of science with the high standard of verbal and written communication normally associated with Arts subjects. It can add breadth and interest to either Arts or Science combinations. Opportunities are provided to attend national student conferences in London at which world-renowned psychologists are key note speakers. Students have also visited Marwell Zoo to observe animal behaviour. Psychology is of direct relevance to a wide range of occupations, particularly any related to the care and management of people or animals. It is accepted as a science qualifi cation for many degree courses.

SociologyDo you want to know and understand more about the social world in which you live? If so, then Sociology could be the subject for you! You will acquire knowledge and a critical understanding of contemporary social processes and structures, for example the family, education and social class. This will enable you to refl ect on your own experience of the social world in which you live and enhance your ability to participate more effectively in adult life. Sociology is especially relevant to those wishing to pursue careers in social administration, social work, education, marketing, the police force, and in fact, any area where an inside knowledge of the working of British society is a requirement.

“We used to think our future was in the stars. Now we know it’s in our genes". James Watson

“How on earth are you ever going to explain in terms of chemistry and physics so important a biological phenomenon as fi rst love?”Albert Einstein

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Design & Technology, Food, Health & Social Care and ICT

Design & Technology Do you have creativity, flair, imagination and an enquiring mind? If so you will be able to study Product Design. You will have the opportunity to study, propose and realise prototype solutions closely linked to the real world of product manufacture in a range of material areas, including Graphics, Resistant Materials and Textiles. CAD/CAM and prototyping feature highly on this course. You will also analyse and consider the factors which impact on designing for the modern world, such as the environmental, moral, social and cultural considerations, health and safety, consumerism and economic issues, as well as furthering your knowledge of modern manufacturing materials and processes.

FoodYou are what you eat! In a nutshell, Food Technology at A Level is about using food science for the creation, preservation, processing, packaging and distribution of food products. You will gain an understanding of the relationship between nutritional and societal needs, design, materials, manufacture and marketing. There’s a mix of classroom learning and practical food skills, culminating in you designing, making and marketing a product. This course is a foundation for higher education courses, or as a qualification in its own right.

Health & Social CareAre you interested in working in health, early-years care and education or social care? Do issues affecting the care sector interest you? Studying Health and Social Care at A Level could suit you if you would like to gain knowledge and understanding of these issues, with practical applications included in assessments. Skills developed will enable you to make an effective contribution to the care sector including those of research, evaluation and problem-solving in a work related context. Many students use this qualification to gain entry into professions like nursing, teaching, and social care.

ICTComputing is a fast-moving industry. Few occupations or workplaces do not make use of Information and Communication Technology today and most are likely to change further as ICT becomes more pervasive. The old saying ‘Time is Money’ has been replaced by ‘Information is Money’. Growth in the various information and communication industries will continue, giving many opportunities directly and indirectly to your generation. The level 3 specifications (A level or equivalent) in ICT have been developed to enable students to continue their GCSE studies at a higher level. It could enhance career opportunities or provide a coherent, satisfying and worthwhile course of study for students wishing to pursue ICT at university.

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“You cannot discover new oceans unless you have the courage to lose sight of the shore.”Francis Drake

Business Studies, Maths and Economics

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Business StudiesThe competitive and exciting world of business is something none of us can avoid. This course will provide you with a broad knowledge of the world of business. You will find out how business succeeds and fails. You will look at the roles of people involved in business organisations. If you are keen to develop your knowledge and skills in the business world, then this is the subject for you.

EconomicsDo you know what drives our economy? Why do interest rates affect our wealth? Why is the pound in your pocket worth less today than it was last year? Economics is the social science that studies the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services. During this course you will examine how economies work and how economic agents interact. Other areas of study include explaining and evaluating global issues and the role of international institutions such as the European Union, the World Bank and the United Nations.

MathsThis course enables you to study mathematics in some depth. You will develop the skills to recognise how a situation may be represented mathematically and understand the relationship between ‘real world’ problems and standard and other mathematical models and how these can be refined and improved. Mathematics is a well respected and important subject. It is an essential tool throughout the world and is used in many fields including natural sciences, engineering, medicine, economics and psychology.

“Imagination is more important than knowledge.”Albert Einstein

English, Law and Theatre Studies

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English Language and LiteratureWe all use language – but how many of us understand the language we use? English Language and Literature is a fascinating subject because of its unique role in capturing the breadth of human thought and endeavour. You will enjoy discovering how people use words for different purposes and audiences. Understanding how language works helps us to communicate effectively and confidently. Language and Literature at A level provide many opportunities to develop your own writing and to make you an independent, reflective and confident reader. It will help you to further understand yourself and the world in which you are. The qualification supports a wide range of courses at university including other Arts, English Literature, or Humanities subjects. It provides a useful entry level to careers in advertising, writing, the media – including radio and television – journalism, drama and a wide range of professions.

English LiteratureDo you have a love of reading and a willingness to explore through discussions, essays, presentations, how different writers tell narratives in different ways? This course will develop your analytical skills and essay writing, as well as offering opportunities to explore who we are and how we live. An A level in Literature leads on naturally to higher education courses in English and other Arts or Humanities subjects, including Law. Literature also provides a useful entry qualification for careers in advertising, writing, the media – including television and radio – journalism, drama, education, personnel and industrial management and a wide range of professions.

LawThe question of fairness of the current justice system and controversial sentencing decisions are just two areas that you will consider on this course. A grounding in the main principles of English law and their development, the structure and personnel and functions of the English Legal System will be studied in detail. The course will develop your ability to communicate legal arguments and conclusions clearly and succinctly with reference to appropriate legal authority. Trips include local magistrates and law courts and the Old Bailey in London. This subject could be particularly relevant and useful if you are considering a career in the law, journalism, the police or the media.

Drama and Theatre StudiesJoin the Cast! Drama and Theatre Studies is a demanding yet highly enjoyable course focusing on students’ abilities to both create and analyse theatre. Students engage in a practical, interactive course which covers a broad spectrum of Drama experience. Theatre visits form a key part of the course with trips to the National Theatre London, Chichester Festival Theatre and regular trips to many smaller local theatres. The practical AS exam, can be entered either as an actor, a lighting technician or a costume designer and involves participation in the staging of a play to a live audience. Although some students do go on to careers in theatre or film, the course also enables you to develop group and presentation skills, which are an important aspect of leadership in the modern workplace.

“It is never too late to be what you might have been.”George Eliot

French and Spanish

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SpanishSpanish is an increasingly popular modern foreign language spoken by 40 million people. On this course you will develop understanding of the oral and written forms of Spanish. Learn to communicate confidently, clearly and effectively in Spanish through both the spoken and written word and develop critical insights into, and contact with, the contemporary society, cultural background and heritage of countries or communities where Spanish is spoken. Visits include a study trip to Santander in Spain.

FrenchWhile any language will be useful for some jobs or for some regions, French is the only foreign language that can be useful throughout the world. French is the only language other than English spoken on five continents. During the course you will develop understanding and the ability to communicate confidently, clearly and effectively in French. In addition you will increase your sensitivity to language and language learning.

Geography, History and RE

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GeographyGeography is a dynamic and fascinating subject that explores a range of real-life issues, focusing on the environment and its processes, the awareness of cultural diversity and geographical variations relevant to business and good citizenship. Students who take geography will be involved in field work. Locations visited include Iceland, London, Aberystwyth, Dorest and Chichester. Geography is a diverse and rewarding subject and is easily combined with a large number of other A Level subjects.

HistoryLivy, the Roman thinker, said “The study of history is the best medicine for a sick mind; for in history you have a record of the infinite variety of human experience… and in that record you can find for yourself and your country both examples and warnings; fine things to take as models, base and rotten things to avoid.” Therefore to study History you should be interested in people: what we do, why we do it and what the consequences of our actions are. The combination of fascinating subject

matter and the development of valuable and transferable skills makes History a popular, widely respected and highly academic subject, which will prepare you for a wide variety of careers (Law, Journalism, Civil Service, Military, Politics, Education, Business and many more).

REWe live in a world beset by problems, and yet have few opportunities to consider the big questions of life. This course will enable students to make connections between areas of study and aspects of human experience. Students will identify basic questions of Theology to explore these within the context of Christian tradition and scholarship as well as develop knowledge and critical understanding of ethical and scriptural issues. Many students combine RE with Arts or Science and have gone on to study a wide range of courses including Law and Medicine, two of many courses which value the ethical dimension of this subject.

“Religious education is becoming a hot subject as pupils look for answers to problems in today’s uncertain world.”The Guardian, 10th January 2008

Media, Music, Art and PE

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“Art attracts us only by what it reveals of our most secret self.”Jean-Luc Godard

Art The last 150 years have seen a momentous shift in the Visual Arts. Contemporary Art makes the national and international headlines and causes heated public debate as artists continue to push the boundaries of what is acceptable. As an A Level student studying Fine Art you enter this debate not only through your study of the work of a wide range of artists but in the development of your own creativity to produce personal ideas and visual responses. The majority of lessons will be practical and involve exploration and experimentation to produce work in two and three-dimensions. Gallery visits will give you the opportunity to view a wide range of work which will broaden your knowledge and allow you to experience work in new ways.

MediaThis course will enable you to develop your interests in media including the analysis and the making of the moving image. You will explore the links between media texts and the contexts in which they were created. The practical elements of the course allow you to be creative and explore the potential of media as a means of communication. Media Studies can lead to specific careers, in areas such as advertising, journalism, public relations, the film and television industry.

MusicSomeone once said “where words fail – music speaks.” The study of Music will enable students to: extend the skills, knowledge and understanding needed to communicate through music and take part in music making and develop particular strengths and interests encouraging life-long learning and providing access to music related careers. In addition as a subject it will broaden experience, develop imagination, foster creativity and promote personal and social development.

PEIf you are interested in pursuing a career or further education in the sport and leisure industry, this course could be for you. During the course you will acquire knowledge and understanding of P.E. and sport through a multi-disciplinary approach, encouraging the development of differing methods of enquiry from a wide range of disciplines. A Level PE can lead to a career in teaching, physiotherapy and sports administration.

A Specialist Humanities College Diocese of Portsmouth

Oaklands Catholic School and Sixth Form CollegeStakes Hill Road, Waterlooville, Hampshire, PO7 7BW

023 9225 9214 023 9223 0317www.oaklands.hants.sch.ukoaklandscatholic@oaklands.hants.sch.uk

Headteacher: Matthew Quinn b.ed (Hons), m.a., npqh