olchfa sixth form

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The Sixth FormatOlchfa is an outstanding success story.

With over 450 students, studying a wide range of courses, it providesprogression, challenge and a genuine opportunity for active involvementin the life and wider work of this leading school. Our results and value-added performance, together with the strong endorsement of ESTYN,all place us in the top rank of Post 16 provision inWales.

At Olchfa, the Sixth Form is very much part of school life and studentsare given tutorial support and guidance as well as a wide range of socialand cultural opportunities. As senior members of this large school,students have ample opportunity to develop leadership skills and fulfiltheir potential in a number of voluntary roles and activities.

We believe that students need an environment that allows for the fulldevelopment of individual personality whilst at the same timeacknowledging joint responsibility for work ethic, appearance andgeneral attitude.

Large numbers of our students progress each year to higher education,aided by a curriculum which combines Level 2 and 3 courses, both ofa vocational and more traditionally academic nature.

Links with local business and commerce are strong and the opportunityfor students to learn new skills or enhance existing ones is valued andplanned for. Partnership is key to our philosophy.Wework closely withstudents, staff, parents and the local community to ensure that thispartnership is real and effective. This gives students an important rolein decision making throughout their time at the school.

H DaviesHeadteacher

Welcome toOlchfaSixth FormCentre


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Art & Design and Design & TechnologyArt & Design 3Art & Design – Graphic Communication 3Design & Technology: Product Design 3

Business and EconomicsApplied Business 4Economics 5

Computing and ICTComputing and ICT 6Information Technology 6

EnglishEnglish Literature 7English Language and Literature 7

Geography and Global IssuesGeography 8World Development 8

HumanitiesGovernment and Politics 9History 9Law 10Religious Studies 11Psychology 11Sociology 11

LanguagesFrench 12German 12Spanish 12Welsh 13

Mathematics 15

PE, Sport, Leisure and HealthLeisure Studies 16Health and Social Care 16Physical Education 17Level 3 BTEC National Certificate in Sport 17

Performing ArtsDrama 19Music 19

SciencePhysics 20Chemistry 20Biology 21

Enrichment ActivitiesCitizenship 22Creative Writing 22Critical Thinking 22Film Studies 23Photography 23Media Studies 24Welsh Baccalaureate 24

Vocational CoursesCourses Available 25How to Combine Courses 26

Extra-Curricular ActivitiesResponsibility andWider Skills 27The Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award 28

Student SupportCareers and Guidance 29Resources 30Individual Guidance 30Oxbridge Support 30

Joining Olchfa Sixth FormThe School Day 31Entry Requirements 31Entry Procedures 31

How to find us 32

Contents

Contents

01792 534300 www.olchfa.org.ukOlchfa School, Gower Road, Sketty, Swansea SA2 7AB

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Art&DesignandDesign&Technology


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Art&Desig

nandDesig

n&Technology

Art & DesignArt & Design is a subject that offers a particularly rich and diverserange of learning experiences. It provides students with theopportunity to undertake an enjoyable and stimulating course ofstudy which is broad, purposeful and relevant to their needs.

The personal views and ideas, thoughts and feelings of the individualare carefully considered, and expressed and communicated througha visual and tactile vocabulary.

Critical judgement and aesthetic sensibilities are fostered, and learningexperiences are provided to help students understandmore about thesociety in which they live and feel confident in their environment.

For AS andA2Art &Design theWJEC courses are followed. At bothlevels, all units of work are expected to have annotated sketchbooksof preparatory studies to support end products. Written assignmentsare regularly set to help develop critical faculties.

Initially the course is structured. Drawing is key. Students areencouraged to experiment with a range of materials, techniques andprocesses to further develop their skills in drawing, painting andother disciplines (eg. textiles, printing, graphics and 3D studies).

Olchfa is fortunate to have a specialist Sixth Form Art Studio and a3D area with ceramic facilities.

Where possible, students spend a short period working in a localprimary school in the summer term on art-based projects whichprovides opportunities for work in the key skills.

Group visits to major galleries and important exhibitions areencouraged and form a compulsory part of the course.

Art&Design

ASLevel

ComponentAS

weighting(marks)

AssessmentA Level

weighting

1 Coursework portfolio 60%InternallyAssessed

30%

Demonstrating differentprocesses developedfrom personal startingpoints

(120) Externallymoderated

2 Controlled Assignment 40%InternallyAssessed

20%

Externally setassignmentdemonstrating personalintentions during acontinuous period offocused study andsupervised and timeeight hour controlled test

(80) Externallymoderated

Total100%(200)

50%


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Design & Technology: Product DesignThe Design & Technology department allows students to work inGraphic Products, Resistant Materials, Engineering and/or Textiles.

Each focus area offers experience of extensive use of ComputerAided Design and Computer Aided Manufacture.

At AS Level you will be required to produce a Design andMake Task,with an open choice of design situation, which will allow you tocreate products to meet the needs of the 21st Century.

At Advanced Level the Major Project should be distinctly differentfrom the AS level project and is selected from a list of design briefsset by the examination board. It is expected that youwill demonstratea greater depth in your designing and making skills.

There is a greater emphasis on the industrial and commercial aspectsof designing andmakingwith an increased awareness of awider rangeof users such as clients, manufacturers and the potential end-user.

Projects produced by Olchfa students have been selected for theWDA / WJEC Innovations Awards Exhibition for the last sevenconsecutive years and this year an AS student achieved a “highlyrecommended” at the Award.

AS / A Level Design and Technology can be used as a third subjecttogether with Mathematics and Physics for entry to an EngineeringDegree or Diploma course, or for entry to many other HigherEducation courses which require a foundation in a creative /innovative subject eg. Architecture, Product Design, Fashion Design,3D Design.

Design and Technology enhances the study of Art, Electronics, IT /Computing via related knowledge and skills and can be used to enterdirectly into a career in Design & Manufacture.

Art & Design: Graphic CommunicationThis course is designed for a wide range of candidates to experiencedesign thoroughly and comprehensively.

The course encourages pupils to develop their own ideas then refinetheir intentions andpersonal outcomes. It aims todevelop interest andenthusiasm for both art anddesignwhileworkingwith a rangeofmedia.

Pupilswill develop ideas througha variety of focused investigations andby looking at specific Artists both past andwithin the current media.

They can cover the following:

• Illustration

• Web design

• Advertising

• Packaging

• Design for print

• Multimedia

• Animation

Knowledge, understanding and skills are enhanced by integratedpractical and theoretical elements.

Design&TechnologyArt&DesignandDesign&Technology


Applied BusinessThis award is equivalent to one AS or A Level and can be studiedalongside the more traditional courses. Within this course you canstudy businesses and find out how they operate within theenvironment.

The general areas of study include: the structure of the organisation;consumers and customers; marketing and financial transactions.

Students who can perform their best through a system of continuousassessments will gain most benefit from studying a vocationalcourse, as two thirds of the course is assessed through assignmentswhile one third is exam based. This course provides a great learningexperience that will help you in your future.

Themodules studies are: Investigating Business; People in Business;Financial Planning and Monitoring; Business Planning; MarketingStrategy; Managing People.

EconomicsThe nature of the subject means it sits easily with a wide variety ofA Level combinations. It is a popular companion to Maths and theSciences and combinations involving English, History, Geography,Sociology and Computing. Increasingly, students with a flair forlanguages are incorporating Economics with a mind to applying forEuropean Business courses at degree level.

Other doors are opened by A Level Economics. For instance, thecourse gives exemption from certain aspects of professionalqualifications in the banking, accounting and administrative fields.Furthermore, many of our students go on to pursue studies atUniversity in Business-related areas, Law and the Social Sciences.

Economics remains a popular course in the Sixth Form. It requiresno previous experience in the subject and students are drawn froma wide range of academic backgrounds having studied quitedifferent GCSE subjects. The subject is very much based in the realworld and an interest in current affairs and a questioning mind aregreat assets. The main aims of Economics are to provide studentswith an understanding of economic techniques and concepts, andapply them to society, such as unemployment, inflation andenvironmental issues. It should promote economic thoughtfulnessin students and develop an ability for expression in writing and inthe use of diagrams.

ICT is increasingly used as a teachingmedium and students will havethe opportunity to research work and present their findings in avariety of new ways such as powerpoint presentations.

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Busin

ess

&Economics

Business&Economics


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ComputingandICT

Computing and ICTAll modern industries, businesses and services use computers insome way, and in fact some tasks are totally impossible without theuse of computers.

It is essential therefore that everyone, whatever their intendedcareer, should have some knowledge of Computing or ICT. Thequestion is really which to take as a subject. Both Computing andICT can be taken up as a subject at A Level without previousexperience in the subject, but many who do so find the coursesvery exacting.

Studentsmust be prepared to undertake some individual research inorder to complete both the practical coursework and theoreticalaspects of the course they choose.

A Level ComputingThe Computing course is intended for those students who intend totake up careers requiring computer programming abilities such asComputer Programming itself, Computer Systems Engineering,Systems Analysis, all other Engineering disciplines andScientific/Mathematical related careers.

Students will find the course more rewarding if they have somemathematical skills in logic. The course covers software and systemdevelopment as well as the collection, storage and processing ofdata, and the use of computers in different applications.

The course will enable students to design their own solutions toproblems and produce their own programs for realistic situations.Although GCSE ICT is not essential, it would be advantageous. Thecourse follows theWJEC GCE Computing Specifications.

A Level ICTICT is increasingly being included in University courses either as asubject in its own right or as a combination subject with a widevariety of other subjects, where it is seen as an extremely useful skill.

Theory for the A Level ICT course covers a very wide range of topics.The course is split into four modules, two of which are done at ASLevel (IT1 – Information Systems, IT2 – Presenting Information) andtwo at A2 level (IT3 – Use and impact of ICT, IT4 – RelationalDatabases).

As there is a considerable overlap with the theory content of theComputing and ICT courses, this is an excluded combination ofsubjects.

The practical work in this course entails using advanced features ofcommonly used applications packages such as word-processing,DTP, presentation packages, spreadsheets and databases, togetherwith other packages such as web design. Although GCSE ICT is notessential, it would be advantageous.

This is a demanding course, as coursework requires a great deal oftime, in addition to normal teaching. It is therefore essential thatstudents can manage their time effectively and be willing to workoutside time tabled lessons. The course follows theWJEC GCE ICTspecifications.

Computing and ICT


If you enjoy reading, discussing andwriting in an environment wherejudgement and creativity are valued alongside understanding andknowledge, then English Literature or English Language andLiterature are for you.

English students will develop a sensitive appreciation of a wide rangeof literary and cultural styles. Englishmay be taken alongside a widevariety of other courses, although popular choices combine it withHumanities or Languages.

It is a useful A Level for careers in Journalism or other Media-Administration, Management, Publishing or specialised technicalwriting. A successful A Level English course will also provide youwith a lasting interest in reading and writing, in the theatre and thevagaries of human nature. We offer two courses.

English LiteratureEnglish Literature involves close, informed study of prose, poetry anddrama through class and private reading, discussion, presentationsand essay writing. Texts for examination are prescribed butindividual choices may be submitted for coursework.

An informed personal response is developed through study of textsfrom different periods and varying social backgrounds. As well asstudying set texts, students will be required to submit one piece ofextended creative writing in response to reading of prose.

Theatre visits and workshops are often arranged bymembers of theEnglish Faculty and it is hoped that students too will take theinitiative in organising local visits and that the course will provide allstudents with a lasting interest in theatre.

English Language and LiteratureEnglish Language and Literature is a course designed to develop andnurture students’ skills in analysis of fiction, non-fiction and thespoken word. It also provides students with the opportunity todevelop their own skills as self-reflective creative writers.

It is a course which encourages students to investigate the ways inwhich language can be used in a variety of contexts such as themedia, the world of politics and the world of entertainment.

Students study novels, drama texts, including Shakespeare, and apoetry anthology as part of the Literature element of the course; theyproduce several pieces of creative writing as part of the Languagecoursework element.

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English

English


GeographyIn today’s world, the emphasis is increasingly on the ways in whichenvironments, societies and places interact. Geography avoids theproblems inherent in over-specialisation and provides a uniquecontribution to education with its ability to bridge the Science-Humanities divide. Geography combines well with a wide range ofsubjects and develops many transferable skills which are valuablefor higher education and future career choices.

At AS, the Changing Physical Environment unit includes the study ofclimate change, earthquakes and volcanoes, as well as rivers andflooding. In the Changing Human Environments unit we look atglobal population and settlement change.

At A2 we will study a choice of contemporary themes, such asExtreme Environments (eg the desert/arctic) and development.

The course is modular in organisation and each unit is taught fromfirst principles. Whilst a background in GCSE Geography is useful,it is not essential. A variety of valuable skills are developed by thestudent of Geography. These include communications, numeracyand graphicacy, together with those skills of a more specific nature,such as problem solving, data collection and analysis. Fieldwork isan essential element of the course.

World DevelopmentThis is an exciting A Level course which we started teaching inSeptember 2006. Until then, it had only been available as a one yearAS course but, due to so much demand, theWJEC has developed itinto a full two year A Level course.

The title ‘World Development’ has currency in both academic andeducational fields and is associated with a ‘one world vision’. Theconcept of interdependence amongst the countries of the world isthe over-arching theme as we study the impact of development onthe earth’s resources, people and the environment.

It is a truly cross-curricular course which is largely concerned witheconomic growth, sustainable development, themanagement of thenatural environment and issues surrounding global poverty andsocial justice in the twenty first century. It will appeal to studentswhowish to keep a broad balance to their studies by improving theirknowledge of world issues. By its very nature, the subject “WorldDevelopment” draws upon a range of other disciplines, especiallyGeography, Politics, Economics, Sociology and History, but thecontent is dealt with in a different way, contributing to its holisticapproach.

World Development studies aremulti-disciplinary and students willlearn to interpret and analyse a wide variety of comparative data.Wider skills, such as research, report writing and the ability tocritically evaluate articles, which are sought by higher education andemployers, are also developed as we progress through the course.

“Geography is one of those richly comprehensivesubjects whose relevance is all around us. Wherewe come from, what we do, what we eat, how wemove about and how we shape our future are alldirectly the province of the geographer.More thanever we need the geographer’s skills and foresightto help us learn about our planet – how we use itand how we abuse it.”

Michael Palin

Geography&GlobalIssues Geography&

Global Issues

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Government and PoliticsThe study of Politics at this level presumes no previous knowledge,although a willingness to pursue an interest in current affairs isessential.

In the first year your studies will encompass a wide range of topics,including the British political system, pressure groups, politicalparties, electoral systems, voting behaviour and the European Union.Through a variety of teaching methods, such as debates anddiscussions, you will gain a thorough understanding of not only theinstitutions within which politics is enacted, but also an insight intothe major issues confronting citizens of the UK today.

In your second year you will build on this foundation by focusingupon political ideas and ideologies. This component of the course isconcerned with the philosophical assumptions upon which oursociety is founded. For example, can we enjoy both freedom andequality? What, if any, duties do we owe to the state? Are humanbeings inherently war-like, or can we exist without government?

Throughout the course you will be encouraged to access a range ofresource material – whether through the quality press, the internetor broadcast media – in order to become familiar with contemporarypolitical issues and to contribute to classroom discussions withconfidence.

Politics can be studied with any combination of AS and A2 subjectsand serves as an excellent preparation for all Humanities degrees.Given that it provides both contemporary and philosophical insightsinto the world within which we live, many lawyers and journalistswill have studied Politics at some time during their education.

HistoryUnderstanding the past is the key to decoding the present. Thismakes our A Level History course both fascinating and engaging,providing detailed insights into 18th and 19th century England andWales as well as modern European history. A Level History is alsoinvaluable for developing vital analytical and research skills.

History emphasises logical analysis of past situations and teachesyou to write fluent and persuasive English: this makes it a sought-after qualification for a wide range of careers including journalism,accountancy, business management, teaching, the civil service, andthe legal profession.

The issues covered are highly relevant to modern life: for example,the ways in which countries are governed, attempts to changeofficial policies, the treatment of minority groups, and improving thelives of ordinary people. You will be encouraged to compare pastand present situations - can we learn from themistakes of the past?

At AS Level you will study:

• Aspects of the History of Britain c.1780-1846

• Aspects of the History of Germany from c.1933 to 1945

The A2 course focuses on:

• Overview of British History c.1780-c.1880

• Britain under Gladstone and Disraeli

• The Czech crisis 1938-39

• Support, Opposition and Resistance within the Third Reichc.1933-1945

History is a literary subject: therefore you will learn how to writeclearly and concisely, especially when working to a time limit. Youwill have plenty of opportunities for debate and argument, based onexercises in which you marshal evidence for and against particularexplanations of past events. History is also a research subject -much time will be spent on private study reading and making notesto answer questions.

Each AS and A2 student is given copies of the main textbooks – youdo not have to buy your own! In addition, significant numbers ofrelevant History books can be borrowed from the school library.Many lesson resources are available on the History Departmentwebsite and students have access at school to the Internet. Weencourage students to use the internet for research purposes,especially in connection with coursework.

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Humanitie

s

Humanities


LawWhy study this course?Students will:

• Find out how laws are made and applied

• Understand the impact of European Law

• Benefit from small class sizes

• Study in an innovative and interactive way

• Enhance their independent study skills

• At A2, study Criminal Law in depth

What can this course lead to?

• AS Law is relevant to almost every aspect of everyday life andany legal knowledge will be useful whether students continuewith their studies or enter employment

• Gives a thorough foundation for those intending to study Law

• Awell regarded A Level which is accepted by all universities, forall degree courses

Unit Content:Unit 1: Understanding Legal Structures and Processes –

Development of the Common law & Equity, Rule of Law,Human Rights, Morality, Institutions of the European Union,Criminal and Civil Process, Sources of Funding.

Unit 2: Understanding Legal Reasoning, Personnel and Methods –Sources of European Law, Legislation, StatutoryInterpretation, delegated legislation, doctrine of precedent,legal reasoning, court hierarchies, law reform, legalpersonnel.

Unit 3: Criminal Law and Justice – Factors which may negatecriminal liability (defences), homicide, non-fatal offencesagainst the person, police powers.

Unit 4: Criminal Law and Justice – Principles of criminal law andjustice, factors which may negate criminal liability,prosecution & criminal trial processes, sentencing and therole of the courts.

Method of Assessment:LA1: Written Paper (1! hours)LA2: Written Paper (1! hours)LA3: Written Paper (1! hours)LA4: Written Paper (2 hours)

Minimum Entry Requirement: GCSE Score of 5.5 including Englishat Grade C or above

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Humanities


Humanitie

s

PsychologyPsychology is the science of the mind. The humanmind is the mostcomplex machine on Earth. It is the source of all thought andbehaviour. Psychologists use human behaviour as a clue to theworkings of the mind. Although we cannot observe the minddirectly, everything we do, think, feel and say is determined by thefunctioning of the mind. So psychologists take human behaviour asthe raw data for testing their theories about how the mind works.Research in Psychology therefore seeks to understand and explainthought, emotion, and behaviour.

The discipline of Psychology embraces all aspects of the humanexperience - from the functions of the brain to the environments inwhich humans and other animals develop; from child developmentto ageing. Psychologists study two critical relationships: onebetween brain function and behaviour, and one between theenvironment and behaviour. As scientists, psychologists followscientific methods, using careful observation, experiments andanalysis to learn more about the world in which we live and itsinhabitants.

Psychologists are asked to find answers to questions such as: “Howdoesmemory work?”, “Is eyewitness testimony reliable as evidencein court?”, “Does stress really make you ill?”, “Why do people sufferfrom phobias, and how can we treat them?”, “How does the humanbrain work?”, “What is a split-brain operation?”, “Why do somepeople conform while others rebel?”

The study of Psychology provides an excellent stepping stone towork in a variety of subject-related professions, such as: clinicalpsychology, teaching, research, educational psychology, sportspsychology, human resources and counselling. Psychology is also agood basis for many other careers.

Religious StudiesReligious Studies coversWorld Religions, issues in Religion, Art andtheMedia as well as an examination of religious perspectives on life,death and beyond. It is an academic discipline and trains studentsin handling and interpreting abstract concepts which will be ofbenefit in any profession or higher education course.

Religious Studies can support a wide range of other AS/A Levels,particularly the Humanities. It provides skills which can be adaptedto a wide range of careers including the legal profession,administration, management, journalism, social work, etc.

This course requires a detailed study of how people interpret themeaning of life and apply it within amoral code. Students are askedto reflect on the effect of religion in today’s society. This courserequires an open mind that focuses on philosophical issues andencourages debate and detailed analysis, as well as considering theimportance of religious art and issues such as the opportunities andchallenges of the Internet for religion.

Learning support is based on a similar structure coupled withindividual consultation with tutors. Students are also supported indeveloping their writing skills to meet the demands of this subject.

SociologyWhat’s it all about? Sociology is the study of societies and the waythat they shape, and are in turn shaped by, people’s behaviour,beliefs, attitudes and identity. Sociology is a wide-ranging and livingsubject dealing with all aspects of life and the problems that facemodern society. It challengesmany of the “common sense” notionsthat people may have concerning issues such as class, gender,ethnicity and sexuality. Sociology therefore attempts to explainhuman behaviour in a variety of situations. It operates at manydifferent levels, from analysing the face-to-face interaction of dailylife to examining the relationships between the social institutionsthat we spend most of our lives within.

What will I learn? Sociology will give you the opportunity to reflectupon your own experiences of the world and give you new ways ofseeing the world around you. From this point of view, Sociologyoffers the opportunity for personal development, and can provideyou with the ‘tools’ to become a better informed and more sociallyaware member of society. You will also develop the necessary skillsto assess different views and reach conclusions.

What about the content? Sociology analyses various institutionsand patterns of inequality/difference, such as the family, massmedia, crime and deviance, education, gender, class, ethnicity, etc.

What can I do with it? Sociology is a flexible and versatile subject,which allows it to be easily combined withmost AS / A / vocationalcourses. Sociology qualifications are almost universally accepted asan entry qualification to higher education and employment.

Sociology results at Olchfa are well above the national average.

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FrenchThrough your study of French at GCSE, you will have already gainedsome knowledge and understanding of the language and culture ofFrance and you will have developed a range of language skills.

The study of French at AS/A level will enable you to:

• further develop an interest in and enthusiasm for languagelearning

• communicate confidently, clearly and effectively in French for arange of purposes

• develop awareness and understanding of the contemporarysociety, cultural background and heritage of countries whereFrench is spoken

• acquire knowledge, skills and understanding for practical use,further study and/or employment

• take your place in a multilingual global society

You will be studying in a department with a proven track record ofcontinuing success. The transition from GCSE to A Level is handledsensitively by staff, and your progress will be enhanced by theexpertise of a foreign language assistant in your weekly conversationclasses in small groups.

The two topic areas you will study at AS are: Leisure and Lifestyles(travel, tourism, sport, hobbies, entertainment, customs, traditions,healthy living, etc.) and The Individual and Society (relationships andresponsibilities, gender issues, youth culture, education and training).

At A Level, the two topic areas you will study are: EnvironmentalIssues (technology, pollution, transport, energy, conservation andsustainability) and Social and Political Issues (the role of the media,racism, immigration, terrorism, the world of work)

Nowadays, competence in a foreign language is an extremelydesirable commodity. It distinguishes one candidate from anotherwith similar qualifications. University courses increasingly includeFrench as a combination subject with a wide variety of other subjectsincluding Maths and Science. Careers involving direct and indirectuse of French range from teaching, interpreting, marketing and salesto accountancy, banking, tourism and travel, engineering andbusiness and social services.

For further details, please contact Mrs J Cowley

GermanGerman is a major European language, spoken by millions ofEuropeans in Germany itself, Austria and Switzerland. Moreover itis a highly useful means of communication in several EasternEuropean countries and increasingly the language used in the day-to-day running of the European Community.

The possession of qualifications in German has long been regardedas an indication of high academic standing, and therefore allinstitutions of higher education offer courses for continued study inGerman. Advanced study in German also promotes thedevelopment of one's powers of logic, and linguistic ability is provento be directly related to the development of other cognitive skills.

LanguagesLanguages


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Languages

Both the AS Level and A Level courses promote the appreciation ofGerman civilisation and culture and provide an opportunity toundertake work experience in Germany.

In this time of fast economic and technological change, of Britain'sgreater integration into Europe, and with Germany as Britain'sgreatest trading partner, linguistic competence in German has neverbeen more crucial in terms of enhanced career prospects.

With existing knowledge of what pupils have achieved at GCSE, staffare able to enhance linguistic skills and ease the transition to A Level.The friendly atmosphere of classes is most conducive to practisingspeaking skills. Moreover, additional conversation classes are givenby our German Language Assistant.

SpanishAs Spanish is the secondmost widely-spoken language in the world,this course is particularly valuable and can open many career doorsin the future.

In recent years it has become increasingly important that studentsacquire knowledge of and competence in foreign languages. In viewof the growing importance of the European dimension of Britishbusiness, nowadays many further education establishments havesought to provide a wide range of courses inmodern languages suchas Spanish, to enable the student to study a variety of disciplineswith a strong linguistic element.

Spanish and Management, Spanish and Law, Spanish andInformation Systems, Spanish and European Studies, Spanish andMarketing/Business Studies are but a few of the options availablepost A Level.

Nationally, Spanish has become very popular and the number ofstudents studying Spanish in schools and universities has increasedrapidly in the last few years.

The department strongly recommends that if you are thinking aboutthe possibility of studying a language at A Level with otherdisciplines, you seriously consider Spanish. Within a few monthsyou will be surprised to discover that you will be able to understandand communicate in a great deal of Spanish. You will attend aweekly conversation lesson with a Spanish native speaker who willenable you to use the language orally very soon.

It is a very intensive course demanding dedication and commitment,but one which has been pursued very successfully by hundreds ofstudents over the last 25 years. Students have said that the degree ofprogress achieved in a short time is remarkable and most satisfying.

WelshSince September 2008 a new team of teachers is in charge ofteaching Welsh here at Olchfa – Mrs Eirlys Madoc-Jones, Mr RyanScourfield, Miss Aimee Allin andMiss Rachel James. We are eagerand committed to providing a good programme of learning withvaried, vibrant and informative lessons. Wewill work hard to ensurethat every KS5 pupil achieves a good AS/A2 Level qualification inWelsh Second Language.

Course Structure andMethod of Assessment

AS – Year 12

A2 – Year 13

Hundreds of young people across Wales are opting to continuestudyingWelsh in Years 12/13 and follow the AS/A2 Level courses.

Why studyWelsh?

• Young students are becoming more aware that Welsh isincreasingly used as a business language, especially within thepublic sector. The ability to speak Welsh and use Welsh couldoffer different career options.

• Young people choose to learn Welsh for personal aspiration.The course will enable them to enjoy and develop a sense ofpride in Wales and theWelsh Language.

• The subject combines well with a variety of other subjects.

• The course develops analytical, philosophical and thinking skills.

• Learning Welsh could give young people the opportunity toexpand their horizons - both in their career choices and sociallywithin the wider community in Wales.

Units Content Assessment

Unit 1CA1

In pairs / groups talk about themselves,Welsh media and popular culture, theWelsh film HEDDWYN

External oralexamination

Unit 2CA2

Folio of written CourseWork Internalassessment

Unit 3CA1

Using Language and Poetry Writtenexamination

Units Content Assessment

Unit 4CA4

Discuss the play SIWAN, popularculture

External oralexamination

Unit 5CA5

Study a series of short stories Writtenexamination

Unit 6CA6

Using Language, Poetry andAppreciating Literature

Writtenexamination


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Mathematics


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Mathematics

Mathematics ismore than just figures on a page – it is about problemsolving . . . which is not quite as routine as it sounds! Mathematicianslearn to be analytical by taking a real life problem and turning it intoa mathematical model. If you choose Maths, you will developproblem-solving strategies used in a wide variety of careers.

Mathematics has always been essential for Engineering and thePhysical Sciences and is now becoming increasingly important in theSocial Sciences, Medicine, Management and Business. However,Mathematics is not only studied for its applications – it has afascination and beauty of its own characterised by precision andlogical rigour.

At Olchfa we are able to offer a choice of three Mathematicalcourses as a single choice at AS/A Level – Pure withMechanics, Purewith Statistics and Pure Mathematics. For the real enthusiast thereis the ‘Double’ Mathematics course, which leads to two A Levels –Mathematics and Further Mathematics.

We can also offer one A level in Mathematics and a completelydistinct AS level in Further Mathematics. Any student interested inthis option, or Double Mathematics, should contact Miss Stevens,Learning Co-ordinator for Mathematics, for further information.

We are well aware that studying Maths can be a challenge – that isone reason why it is so worthwhile! Should you choose to studyMathematics at Olchfa you will find the staff well qualified,experienced and willing to support you in your work.

You will find yourself part of a department which prides itself on itsexcellent results – all well above national averages. All we ask is thatyou have studied Mathematics at GCSE Higher Tier, achieving atleast a ‘B’ grade.

Mathematics


Leisure StudiesThis is an exciting new course, which gives students a broadintroduction to the leisure business. Through case studies andvisits, it helps them to develop skills and apply knowledge to avariety of leisure organisations and situations.

It requires no previous experience of the subject and can be studiedalongside a variety of other courses eg Economics, Geography,Sociology, Business Studies, ICT.

The AS course examines aspects and issues associated with:UNIT 1 The Leisure IndustryUNIT 2 Working Practices in LeisureUNIT 3 The Leisure Customer

Units 1 and 3 are Assignment based, whilst Unit 2 is assessed by aone and a half hour examination.

AS Modules are designed to give students the opportunity toinvestigate local issues and events as part of their Assignment work.

The course is designed so as to provide a progression route to highereducation or further training for employment, and is examined atGCE AS and A2 Level.

A2modules are:UNIT 4 Leisure in ActionUNIT 5 Employment in LeisureUNIT 6 Current Issues in Leisure

Unit 4 offers students the opportunity to develop the skills requiredto organise a Leisure Event, whilst Unit 6 allows them to investigatean issue/topic of their own choice related to leisure.

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Health and Social CareHealth and Social Care is a varied course, which deals with the healthand social welfare and needs of the individual and vulnerable groupswithin our society.

At AS level you will study:

• Equal Opportunities and the Client’s Rights

• Communication within Health, Social Care and Education

• Promoting Good Health

The A2 course focuses on:

• Care Practice and Provision

• Social Trends

• Child Development

AS and A2 involve you organising placements at local providers tohelp you complete the course.

If you have thought about a career in the health, social care oreducation sectors then this course is an excellent preparation for alldegrees in this area.

Assessment is a mixture of course work and examinations. You willbe asked to produce four assignments which account for 66% of thetotal score and you will sit two theory examinations which accountfor 33% of the overall mark.

You may follow the subject up to AS level or complete the two yearcourse and obtain an A2 Level in this subject.

PE,Sport, LeisureandHealthPE,Sport,LeisureandHealth


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PE,Sport,Le

isureandHealthPhysical Education

AS/A2 Physical Education offers a unique insight into the theoreticaland practical elements of sport and the analysing of humanmovement. The Physical Education course is a diverse and multi-faceted qualification that incorporates sports science, sportspsychology and the sociology of sports performance, alongside highlevel practical performance and analysis.

At AS level students will study the theoretical components ofAnatomy and Physiology, Skill Acquisition and Contemporary Issues.These challenging theoretical components sit alongside a practicalcomponent which involves the performance of two sports and thefurther critical analysis of one of those sports.

At A2 level students develop the topics introduced at AS, and areexposed to the areas of Exercise Physiology, Sports Psychology andthe History of Sport. They will also receive practical assessmentunder effective performance criteria.

The nature of the course encourages the student to develop a wholerange of transferable skills across a broad range of topic areas.

The course encourages the key skills of ICT, working with others andcommunication. The critical analysis of sport encourages studentsto interact with groups of peers and staff alike and has tremendousbenefits with regard to the development of confidence levels.

Pupils considering the course should obviously have a keen interestin all aspects of sport and should possess a background in sportsperformance. The course is suitable particularly for students whohave studied GCSE Physical Education.

Level 3 BTEC National Certificate in Sport(Development, Coaching and Fitness)What is the Level 3 BTEC National Certificate in Sport(Development, Coaching and Fitness)?

The qualification will enable you to develop the essential skills andknowledge for starting a career in the sports sector, with a specificfocus on sports development, coaching and fitness.

The qualification will give you insight into the various differentoccupational routes you can take within the sector, plus help youprogress in existing employment, or move onto further study.

The course consists of two compulsory core units plus five specialistunits (which will total 720 guided learning hours). The structure ofthe course focuses on areas such as sport and exercise massage,rules, regulations and officiating in sport or exercise, health andlifestyle. Please note that the units studiedmay vary tomeet local orlearner needs.

Where will this qualification take me?Employment opportunitiesWith the international recognition of BTEC courses such as this, youcan progress straight into employment. If successful there are a widevariety of prospective careers that you can explore, for example:health and fitness instructor, sports therapist or sports developmentofficer.

Further vocational and academic qualificationsThe BTECNational Certificate in Sport (Development, Coaching andFitness) has the equivalence of two GCE A Levels, and it is possiblefor you to progress further into higher education, as successful BTECNational qualifications give UCAS points for university applications.

How long will it take me to complete this qualification?It will take two academic years to complete.

What are the entry requirements?The entry requirements for the Edexcel Level 3 BTECNational Awardin Sport are the same as all A Level courses at Olchfa. In addition,an interest in sport and some practical potential will help yousucceed in achieving the qualification.

How can I find out more?Ask Mr Evans or a member of the PE Department for moreinformation.


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Perform

ingArts


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Perfo

rmingArts

DramaDrama is a unique subject at A Level in that it allows you to workcollectively in a creative andpracticalway. Not onlywill you learnmoreabout the theatrical process in both theory and practice but you canalso expect to develop a rangeof key skills demandedby groupworkingand exploration. It is for these reasons thatDrama is a valuable subjectfor both personal development and University matriculation.

The study of Post-16 Drama also offers strong preparation for thosestudents wishing to pursue the subject vocationally or seekingemployment / training in areas which require a high degree of socialskills / confidence and interaction with others.

The focus of this course is on the creative and practical skills of acting.You can therefore expect to be working in groups developing socialskills such as confidence, leadership and positive interaction.

The rehearsal process allows groups to develop performance skillsbased on use of voice and body to create character and present themto an audience. Therefore the creative, practical skills will always beunderpinned by a theoretical awareness of the demands ofperformance. A key feature of this learning will be the exploration oftexts and frequent visits to the theatre to see how ideas are appliedby professional companies.

Please note that for examination purposes all candidates studyingAS and A2 will need to be photographed and their practical workrecorded on video.

MusicWe offer WJEC AS and A2 courses in Music, as well as EdExcel ASin Music Technology.

WJEC AS Music focuses on Performing, Composing and Listening.

We study 18th and 19th Century instrumental music and 20thCentury Jazz and Pop. For A2 the emphasis changes to 20thCentury music.

The EdExcel AS Music Technology course focuses on three tasks:Sequenced Realised Performance, Multi-Track Recording andCreative Sequenced Arrangement.

There are many opportunities for you to broaden your musical skillseven if you do not choose to study Music at AS or A Level.

The school has an Orchestra and String Orchestra,Wind Band, JazzGroup, Olchfa Brass and Junior Brass, Choir, Chamber Choir andMale Voice Choir. In addition we can provide accommodation andfacilities [for example drum kits, amps and electronic keyboards] formany smaller groups to rehearse including rock and pop groups.

Instrumental lessons are provided free of charge by a team of eightperipatetic teachers from the County Music Service. At present weare able to provide tuition for each orchestral instrument as well asguitar [acoustic and electric], keyboard and drum-kit/percussion.The team of peripatetic staff makes a valuable contribution to theextra-curricular activities provided by the Music Department.

We have been represented in the NYOW with several of ourinstrumentalists in different national ensembles.

There are important whole-school musical events in the calendareach year. In November we put on a major production and in 2009this was ‘Annie’. This has a significant input from students in Years12 and 13. The Carol Service, in St Paul’s Church, Sketty, provides anopportunity for each of the major school groups to perform.

In the Spring Term ourmusicians perform in the Annual PresentationEvening at the Brangwyn Hall.

PerformingArts


PhysicsIf you have ever wondered ‘Why is the sky blue?’, ‘How does amobile phone work?’ or ‘How does the sun keep on shining?’, thenyou should consider studying Physics.

A Level Physics is an important qualification for many careers. It isa fascinating and stimulating area of study which continuallychallenges students and demands creative thinking.

There are many career paths that can be taken with a post-16qualification in Physics - communication; astronomy; transport andaerospace engineering; research and development; education;meteorology; environmental science; medicine and health;oceanographer; audio technician and many others.

Physics will also teach and enhance many of your key skills such asapplication of number, ICT, problem solving and logical thinking.Therefore even if you do not feel that Physics is essential for yourcareer, it could still prove to be a useful qualification. This is whyPhysics is so highly regarded by universities and employers.

We will be offering the new AQA (A) course at AS and A2 Level.This involves no coursework but practical and investigative skills areassessed in the same way as they are at GCSE, that is throughindividual PSAs and ISAs.

Students interested in studying Physics will need to have competedGCSE Physics or Core plus Additional Science all at Higher Tier level.

ChemistryChemistry occupies a central position in science. It has links withPhysics, Materials and Engineering, and also with the Biological andEnvironmental Sciences and Medicine. Its applications form thebasis of industry and indeed our everyday life. Our clothes, thepaper we write on, the food we eat, even the celebratory drink whenwe pass our exams have been made better by chemists.

Above all, Chemistry is the science of life: all life depends onchemical change. A Level Chemistry will be found to be a usefulqualification for a wide variety of Science, Engineering and othercourses in Higher Education and is an essential subject requirementfor courses in Medicine, Pharmacy, Dentistry, Veterinary Scienceand many Biology-based courses. It will be acceptable for a wholerange of courses in Law, Accountancy, Management, Geology,Geography, Marketing, Computing, Surveying, EnvironmentalStudies and Agriculture.

The Chemistry staff at Olchfa are committed to maximising thesuccess of our students, by teaching the content of the course incombination with learning strategies designed to get themost out ofour students. This commitment is reflected in the fact that thegreat majority of our Chemistry students have been accepted ontothe Higher Education courses of their choice.

We emphasise a practical approach designed to bring the ideas ofChemistry alive and make them relevant to our students. The skillsthey can acquire on the course are transferable to other areas,whether or not they go on to study Chemistry at a higher level.

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ScienceScience


21

Scie

nce

BiologyBiology is one of the most popular A-Level subjects in the country.

The new AS/A2 specifications were examined for the first time in2009. They build on the concepts and skills that will have beendeveloped in the new GCSE Science specifications.

Biology is presented as being exciting, relevant and challenging, andwill perform a useful educational function for students intending tostudy Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Veterinary Science,Biochemistry, Physiotherapy, Nursing, etc.

The specifications emphasise the way in which scientists work andthe contribution of science to modern society. It involves the studyof a wide range of topics ranging fromMolecular Biology to the studyof Ecosystems and fromMicro-organisms to Mammoths.

In Year 12 you’ll study three major topics:

• Biology and Disease

• The Variety of Living Organisms plus

• Practical Assignment – to sharpen your investigative skills

Year 13 has also has three academic topics:

• Populations and the Environment

• Control in Cells and in Organisms plus

• Investigative and Practical Skills

Olchfa Biology Department has a varied selection of text books andword processed notes. Students receive regular practice in pastpaper questions, essays and laboratory skills. Emphasis is placedon the application of biological facts and principles.

The course helps students develop a number of skills:

• How to collect data and evaluate it.

• How to investigate facts and make deductions.

• How to put over your point of view effectively.

• How to take responsibility for your own learning.

Potential AS students should have studied GCSE Higher Tierspecifications.


CitizenshipCitizenship at AS will provide you with an insight into some of themost challenging questions facing Britain today. The first unitexplores issues concerning identity in contemporary Britain. Whatdo wemean by British? Are we amulticultural society and how havepatterns of migration contributed to Britain?

With these issues in mind, students then study problemssurrounding inequality, prejudice and disadvantage and ways inwhich they can be reduced. Finally, the last section looks at the rightscitizens enjoy and the responsibilities they owe. Unit two picks up onand develops these themes by examining where the power lies inthe UK and how citizens can make a difference.

The course is examined through a combination of traditional essaysand participation in active citizenship, where students focus upontheir own contribution to society.

CreativeWritingThis course offers a range of strategies and possibilities to helpstudents develop as writers.

Through the study of a cross section of lively and contemporaryliterature, students will explore and improve their own writing skillsin four key modules:

• Exploring Contemporary Poetry

• The Comedy Sketch

• Writing for Radio

• The Short Story

While this course is not externally assessed, each unit willculminate in the submission of a coursework folder, including thepublication of a poetry anthology, a filmed comedy sketch, a classrecording of a play for voices and a short story to be included inthe class collection.

The emphasis of each of these modules will be highly practical,with a range of exercises and activities designed to ignite andsustain the writing impulse. Students will be encouraged to beconfident, adventurous and constructively self-critical in theircreative writing, while valuing the importance of their ownexperience and observations.

As part of the course, students will be involved in a wide range ofwriting related activities including sessions led by guest authors,public readings and creative writing trips. All students will beencouraged to participate in local arts events and build upon thelinks we have with the Dylan Thomas Centre and Ty Newydd, theNational Writing Centre for Wales.

This course is suitable not only for aspiring writers, but for anystudents with a strong enquiring interest in reading, writing andperformance.

Critical ThinkingCritical Thinking is a skills-based rather than content-based ALevel. It develops the ability to interpret, analyse and evaluate ideasand arguments and can support thinking skills in all subject areas,from arts and humanities to sciences. Are you passionate aboutusing your grey matter to reach logical answers? If so, this is thecourse for you.

Why is Critical Thinking so popular?It is certainly one of the fastest growing AS/A Levels around. Manyfind that proficiency in the core skills of Critical Thinking is vital tosuccessful academic study at all levels. And the good news is thatresearch provides evidence that these skills are transferable intoachievement in other school subjects. In many ways, this is notsurprising. A good grasp of analysis, an understanding of whatconstitutes a sound argument, knowing how to spot flaws andweaknesses in the reasoning, and the ability to compose coherentand focused arguments are all at the heart of academic endeavour.

Why learners should study for an AS-Level in Critical Thinking

• It provides learners with skills such as analysis, evaluation andthe ability to compose reasoned and coherent arguments whichcan benefit their performance across a range of subjects both inthe humanities and sciences.

• It provides opportunities for learners to think deeply, and in astructured way, about issues that are key to participating insociety, eg ethical questions, cultural issues and issues ofpersonal responsibility.

• A Level Critical Thinking drives higher-order thinking skills andis valued by universities as well as employers. It offers excellentpreparation for study at Higher Education level but also prepareslearners for the tests they will be asked to complete whilelooking for employment.

• Learners with an A Level in Critical Thinking have secured placesin some of the country’s most reputable universities.

Enrichment

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Enrichment


Enrich

ment

Film StudiesFilm Studies is an enjoyable, interesting and diverse subject for thosestudents with a real passion for film, film theory and film history.More and more students are studying this subject across the UKbecause it helps to prepare them for promising careers in Journalismand the media.

This exciting and diverse course aims to deepen students’understanding, appreciation and enjoyment of film, themajor art formof the 20th Century. The specification builds on the cineliteracylearners have developed informally since childhood. They will studyfilm deriving from a variety of production contexts and experienced ina variety of viewing situations. Theywill also engagewith awide rangeof different kinds of films, developing skills of observation, criticalanalysis and personal reflection, as well as developing their creativityand practical skills, either in audio-visual or written form. A variety offorms of assessment are used, with the intention of producingimaginative, active learners. In particular, the specification explores therelationship between the film and the individual by exploring how filmscreate meanings and produce both intellectual and emotionalresponses. Additionally, the aesthetic and sensory qualities of film areemphasised as integral to a study of the interaction between films andspectators. Analysis is enabled by the application of critical approachesappropriate to this level, as well as through creative project work.

The studyof filmproducers andaudiencesexplores issuesof productionand consumption: the supply of and demand for films. Some of therecurringdebateswithin filmculturewill be explored. These include theglobal dominance of Hollywood, strategies for supporting indigenousfilm and the significance of fandom. The specification introducesstudents to the diverse range of film forms and film styles developed indifferent places throughout thehistory of cinema. In giving students theopportunity to study significant filmmovements andaspects of nationalcinema, it is intended that an interest in film culture will be fosteredwhich can be taken forward in lifelong learning.

This course really does require a strong work ethic as a large numberof coursework tasks require students to set essay questions forthemselves based on their own choice of film.

PhotographyThe AS-Level Photography: Lens and Light-based Media course isdesigned to explore light based media through the mediums oftraditional and digital photography. Students will develop skills inphotography through personal enquiry, experimentation andmanipulation within the media over two years.

DescriptionStudents will produce over the duration of the course a portfolio ofwork journals exploring different themes set by the departmentwhich fit the needs of the specification. These will include gainingknowledge and understanding of the use of light, viewpoint,composition, focus, shutter speed and aperture as well as the use oftraditional and digital darkroom processing.

Work journals will also provide evidence of personal enquiry andexpression involving the selection, manipulation of images and showconnections with the work of others.

The work journals and the outcomes produced from them form thecoursework element of the AS Level and will be developed usinglesson time and homework.

At the end of the course they will take an eight hour exam whichthey will have a number of weeks to prepare for. The theme for theexam is chosen by the exam board.

Course OutlineYou will work towards the AS-Level in Art and Design: PhotographyLens and Light-based Media with the WJEC ExamBoard.Specification number 1051/1052

Exam Board SpecificationThe specification is designed to encompass four principal areas.These areas are incorporated into the four Assessment Objectiveheadings:

• Contextual understanding

• Creative making

• Reflective recording

• Personal presentation

By the end of the courseStudents are assessed on the coursework and final exam. Thecoursework portfolio of work counts for 60% of the AS-Level. Thisis the work that the students have produced in the lesson and forhomework.

The controlled assignment accounts for 40% of the final marks andis externally set and includes a controlled test that will be acontinuous period of focused study of eight hours.

It is strongly recommended that pupils wishing to study this courseinvest in a good quality Digital SLR as, although both film and digitalcameras will be available for use, the experience one gains fromgetting to really know your own camera is invaluable.

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Media StudiesA Level Media Studies is a fascinating subject that is about a lotmore than just watching TV! Students will be given the opportunityto explore the significant role that themedia plays in our 21st centurylifestyles. The course allows pupils to create their own mediaproducts such as magazine front covers, short films, CD covers,newspaper articles and much more.

In recent years themassmedia have become an important focus forexploration by students in an increasingly media saturated world.This course offers candidates a framework through which they canstudy the distinctive contributions which the mass media make totheir understanding and enjoyment of the world in which they live.Through a variety of approaches to the changingmedia environmentstudents will develop a critical and analytical approach to the rangeof media texts, as well as the media institutions which create andcirculate them. This will include attention to the textualcharacteristics of the forms of output and representation to be foundin those media texts. Candidates will further explore the kinds ofrelationships the texts propose with audiences, through a range ofresearch, pre-production and production activities. The frameworkwill be further extended by directing attention to the deeper study ofselected media industries and to the changes and debatessurrounding the deployment, expansion and impact of mediatechnologies such as the Internet and the growth of digital mediawithin an international context.

The specifications build on the knowledge, understanding and skillsestablished in GCSE Media Studies and it will be of advantage tocandidates to have progressed from such a course in GCSE MediaStudies, where the basic concepts and approaches which thisspecification seeks to extend and developwill have been established.This specification will progress through a series of linked units whichhave greater depth and breadth than GCSE and offer greateropportunities for analysis, personal research, deeper knowledge ofmedia forms and production work. It is not, however, a condition thatcandidates should have followed a course in GCSEMedia Studies asthis specification has been designed to attract candidates with abroad based set of qualifications.

TheWelsh BaccalaureateA small group of students will be offered the opportunity to study forthe “Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Diploma” in order to broadentheir studies and gain an additional 120 UCAS points (equivalent toan extra ‘A grade at A Level).

TheWelsh Baccalaureate is an over-arching qualification formed oftwo parts:

1 The Options are the A level subjects that students take now.Students must achieve a pass grade in at least 2 subjects.

2 The Core is the new and innovative part of the WelshBaccalaureate. It is compulsory and includes four components:

• Wales, Europe and theWorld

• Work Related Education

• Personal and Social Education

These three components are designed to offer opportunities forstudents to achieve the fourth component:

• Key Skills

Students wishing to be considered for the Welsh Baccalaureateshould write it in as an option on page 2 of the “PreliminaryApplication and Survey Form”.

Enrichment

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25

AtOlchfawe offer Vocational Courses in the Business and Sport areas.

These are work related subjects where students learn about theseareas within the ‘real world.’ While studying on one of these coursesall students will develop both academically and socially as they haveto communicate with people from different organisations, workwithin groups andmake oral as well as written presentations of theirwork. Most courses involve a period of work placement, which isdirectly linked to the study. These vocational courses can be studiedalongside the more traditional AS or A Levels.

OCR Level 2 National Certificate in BusinessThis qualification is equivalent to 4 GCSEs A* to C. It is a one yearcourse and is relevant to the real world. You will learn about howproducts are bought and sold, how businesses are organised, theimportance of communication in business as well as recruitmentprocedures and customer care.

The course will involve a period of work placement. The style oflearning is beneficial to those students whowork well with a systemof continual assessments, as all the course is assignment based.

Vocational Qualification for the Sports Industry

BTEC National Certificate in Sport Level 3“Enhance your sport knowledge”BTEC qualifications are aimed at pupils seeking a career in the sportsindustry. This qualification has been accredited onto the NationalQualification Framework (NQF) at Level 3. It has been developedto recognise candidates’ skills, knowledge and understanding of thesports industry.

Pupils study in preparation for employment in job roles in anoperative or supervisory level within a wide range of sport relatedenvironments. In addition this qualification is suitable for thosewishing to gain a Level 3 qualification to support further study inFurther Education and Higher Education.

BTEC National Certificate in Sport Level 3The certificate is ideal for candidates wishing to complete thequalification within 2 years, and is equivalent to studying 2 A Levels.(See PE/Sports course Section.)

VocationalCourses Vocatio

nalCourse

s


How to combine coursesThese courses can be combined in a variety of ways, and studentsfromOlchfa and Bishopston will be given the opportunity to discussthe best pattern of courses with the school’s Post-16 Team andcareers staff on a one to one basis.

Students joining from other schools should contactMrs B Ryan toarrange an appointment to do this.

AS Levels are completed in the first year of Sixth Form andstudents may take up to five of these, taking three or four on to ALevel in the second year by completing an A2 course.

AS Levels are easier, in terms of both content and assessment,than the A2 courses necessary to complete the A Level. It ispossible to start new AS courses in the student’s upper sixth year,and all students have opportunity to achieve the Key Skillsnational qualification if they so wish.

Combinations that students might take include:Starting 5 subjects at Advanced Level, which after 2 years leads to:

• 4 A Levels plus 1 AS

• or 3 A Levels plus 2 AS

Starting 4 Advanced subjects, leading to:

• 4 A Levels

• or 3 A Levels plus 1 AS Level

Some students will start 3 Advanced subjects leading to:

• 3 A Levels

• or 2 A Levels plus 1 AS Level

Courses AvailableThe courses available at Olchfa School in post-16 classes are:

• GCSE in English, Mathematics and Science

• OCR Level 2 National Certificate in Businessand

• a wide range of GCE A/AS Levels, the OCR NationalCertificate/Diploma in Sport Level 3 and theWelsh Baccalaureate.

It is also possible for sixth formers to resit a number of other GCSEsby attending Year 11 classes for particular subjects.

A number of AS Levels do not require prospective students to havestudied the subject previously at GCSE. These include: Computing,Critical Thinking, Geography, Health & Social Care, History, ICT,Music, Physical Education, Politics, Psychology, Sociology, SpanishandWorld Development.

Swansea Sixth Forms’ ConsortiumFor some years nowwe haveworked very closely with the other SixthForms in Swansea to give our students a greater choice of courses.

For those whowish, this involves spending two afternoons a week atanother school, with transport provided. This may be to take asubject that, although provided at Olchfa, we cannot fit with yourother subjects. Alternatively you may wish to take courses that wedo not provide here.

For further details on any course please contact the school bytelephone, by post, or at an open evening.

The availability of all courses is subject to there being a viable levelof demand and staffing.

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CoursesAvailable


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Extra

-Curricu

larActiv

ities

ActivitiesThe Sixth Form places considerable emphasis on study alongtraditional academic or vocational lines, but recognises the greatvalue of extra-curricular activity in developing social andorganisational skills as the student moves into the independenceand responsibility of adulthood.

The BlockA particular strength of the Sixth Form is the large number of eventsand projects students initiate and organise themselves. All SixthForm Students share a Sixth Form Common Room and terrace atbreak, lunchtime and during their private study time, as analternative to supervised library conditions. The Common Room iswell equipped with TV, coffee, soft drinks and snack machines aswell as pool and football tables.

The Common Room, which is very much the Sixth Formers’ ownprovince, is, in many ways, the hub of social activity. From thiscomes a steady stream of ideas and projects for Sixth Form socialevents, business schemes and charity fund raising. Suggestions arechannelled through elected Sixth Form representatives and the levelof activity depends very much on the enthusiasm of the studentsinvolved. In most years this is considerable, with studentsorganising, for example, discos, several companies under the YoungEnterprise Scheme, a host of charity fund-raising drives and the SixthForm Ball.

Community InvolvementThe Sixth Form is extremely involved in the local community makingthemost of a wide range of links with local businesses, charities andhospitals. Those students considering a career in teaching takeadvantage of a programme giving them work experience at localjunior schools. Within the school community, sixth formers can takeresponsibility in dealing with and helping younger students throughorganising competitions, “mentoring” students with achievementdifficulties, involvement in our anti-bullying schemes and helpingyounger readers through our “buddy” scheme.

Young EnterpriseYoung Enterprise is a UKwide programmewhich aims to give youngpeople the experience of setting up and running their own companyfor one year. It is open to students in Year 12 at the school and hasa long tradition of being an interesting and rewarding extra-curricular activity.

The participants think of an idea, elect a board of directors fromwithin the group, raise share capital, and market and finance aproduct or service of their own choice. At the end of the year theypresent a report and accounts to their shareholders.

Company members gain experience of the real world; takingresponsibility and being accountable to their shareholders for therunning of the business. They attend Trade Fairs at which they selltheir product or service.

There is also an optional Young Enterprise examination offering arecognised OCR qualification, and an annual competition to identifythe top companies in the UK and Europe. The school has beenparticularly successful in the Swansea area and has represented thecounty at national level.

The programme aims to simulate the real world of business but in afun and enjoyable way. The next Bill Gates may well be a director inone of our Young Enterprise companies!

SportThe Sixth Form at Olchfa offers a very full range of sports andoutdoor activities, so students with an interest in sport, will findevery opportunity to participate in their chosen activity. Our facilitiesinclude two full-size rugby pitches, a full size football pitch, sportshall, two gymnasiums, red gravel hockey pitch, cricket nets,swimming pool and a fitness training gym.

Students are encouraged to participate in school representativeteams; however, there is a great deal of opportunity to participate inphysical recreation for its own sake. The Physical EducationDepartment attempts to be as flexible as possible, so if you have anidea, please see us.

DramaThe Sixth Form provides an excellent opportunity for thoseinterested in all aspects of Drama to perform or to assist with schoolproductions. Auditions are held annually for the school musicalwhere acting/singing/dancing skills are required.

Perhaps you would like to be part of the backstage team where weare always in need of students to take responsibility for lighting, set,stage management or front of house duties. All you need to do is tomake yourself known to any member of the Music or Dramadepartments at the beginning of the year.

For those who wish to study Drama on a more formal basis, there isthe opportunity to follow the Drama AS Level course, utilising ourwell-equipped drama facilities.

Extra-CurricularActivities


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The Duke of Edinburgh’sGold AwardWhy should you give seriousconsideration to participation in theGold Duke of Edinburgh’s Awardat Olchfa?

When it comes to gaining a place at the University of your choice orgetting onto the short-list for a career or job, you will be incompetition with other people who have good A Level results or agood Degree and that is fine!

You will need an edge! In addition to academic or vocationalqualifications, a Gold Award can say a lot of things about you and setyou apart from the crowd.

It says - that you have ‘stickability’; that you can work effectively asa member of a team; that you can organise yourself and others; thatyou are a caring person; that you can work effectively with peoplewho are older than you … and lots of other marketable attributes.

All Students who are over the age of Sixteen are eligible toparticipate in the GOLDAWARD, providing you have completed theBronze and Silver sections of the Award.

The AWARD at GOLD LEVEL is made up of FIVE SECTIONS:

• Service - Which involves giving some form of beneficial serviceto the community in which you live.

• Skill - Which involves the development of new or existing skillsor hobbies.

• Physical Activity - Which involves participation in some Sportor other Physical Activity and developing your Skill, Techniqueand Knowledge.

• Residential Project - Which involves a period of FIVEDAYS/FOUR NIGHTS away from home with no more than twoof your friends, joining a worthwhile activity with other youngpeople. For example : - an environmental project; helping witha holiday for disadvantaged children etc.

• Expedition or Exploration - This involves FOUR DAYS/THREENIGHTS camping and journeying. The EXPEDITION requires a50 mile (80 km) ‘Journey with a Purpose’ and theEXPLORATION requires aminimum of ten hours journeying overthe four days with a suitably enhanced ‘Purpose’. Between thesetwo extremes, any intermediate combination may be agreed.

There is a popular misconception that the Award Scheme is aboutclimbing up mountains. There is a lot more to it than that!

By the way, you might just enjoy the experience and makenew friends!

If you want to get the edge out there, get yourself a Gold Award.

Extra-CurricularActivities


The strength of the student support system at Olchfa is thatstudents are allocated to tutor groups that meet with the group tutordaily. He or she is themember of staff fromwhom students first seekadvice and are overseen by the Learning Leader and Directorof Studies.

All these staff are very experienced in post-16 teaching andcounselling, and they work closely with the Head of Guidance andPersonal Development and CareersWalesWest officers to provideboth careers and higher education guidance for all members of theSixth Form. Throughout a student's SixthForm career his/her grouptutor will monitor his/her progress in key skills and Higher Educationand training applications carefully, consulting with other staffas necessary.

With the exception of those taking only applied A Levels, all studentshave some form of interim internal/external examinations. Theseexaminations serve a number of purposes. First, and foremost, theyprovide the opportunity for students to consolidate and assess theirunderstanding of the work covered up to that date. Secondly, theyare a formal objective assessment of students' progress which canbe conveyed to both parents and prospective universities andcolleges or employers in references. If there is cause for seriousconcern over standards of academic progress, the student andparents will be invited to discuss the matter.

Parents’ Evenings for each of Year 12 and 13 are held annually, whilereports are issued after each set of examinations.

A feature of Year 12 is the close consultation between the individualstudent and the Sixth Form Team to decide the best combination of

courses for the student during Year 13. This process begins in thespring term and includes the availability of counselling in the summervacation, in the weeks after the publication of the AS results.

All students have full access to the Library for private study. Thisfeatures a comprehensive range of books, periodicals andnewspapers, as well as an Information Communication Technologyarea with access to internet and PCs. The inclusion of student accessto photocopying and audio visual facilities makes this a modern,well-equipped, pleasant working environment.

Careers and GuidanceCareers and guidance activities in Olchfa Sixth FormCentre continuethe work begun in earlier years. All students are supported andencouraged in nurturing positive aspirations based on realistic self-appraisal and awareness of the steps and processes needed toachieve their goals. The Learning Leaders for Years 12 and 13 workclosely with the Careers Service and Learning Coordinator for PSEto ensure ongoing support.

Carefully timed provision for all post-16 students occurs at key times.An opportunity to consider choices is provided by the post GCSEcounselling service available in the school, from the arrival ofexamination results until the start of term.

All studentshavean independentcareer interviewwithaCareersAdviserin Year 12. In Years 12 or 13 individual interview simulations can beprovided for thoseseekingemploymentoraHigherEducationplace. Theschool Careers Department is also involved in assisting with individualchoices and in the post AS andA2 Level results counselling service.

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StudentSupport

StudentSupport


ResoucesResources are located in the Careers Centre in the Library, with formtutors and with the Learning Leaders for Years 12 and 13. In additionto prospectuses, information about sponsorships and the majorhigher education guides, the Careers Library also offers specificcareers information, directories, videos, ICT facilities, books andcareer leaflets. Notices of vacancies of interest to students are alsodisplayed on the career noticeboard.

The Pastoral Guidance Worker also provides guidance andcounselling on an individual basis for those experiencing anydifficulty or uncertainty.

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Individual GuidanceThe importance of guidance on an individual basis is considerable,even within a comprehensive system of careers education.Students are encouraged to negotiate with teaching staff, usingALLIS and predicted grades, to attain a realistic self-assessment, sothat they can set themselves appropriate achievement targets andcareer ambitions.

Learners are assisted in this by individual interviews with their formtutor, and with the Learning Leader in Year 13. On these occasionsthey will be given detailed counselling by experienced staff onemployment or Higher Education application forms.

Oxbridge SupportEach year the school sends several students to the Universities ofOxford and Cambridge. Students interested in these universities areclosely counselled throughout by staff with close workingrelationships with individual colleges, built up over the school's longtradition of providing them with successful applicants. Specialistsupport is offered by the school’s dedicated Oxbridge coordinator.

In addition to the individual interview with the Careers Adviser inYear 12, the Pastoral Guidance Worker and Post-16 team areavailable to see Year 12 and 13 students as often as necessary. TheDirector of Studies is available for consultation at all Parents'Evenings, and at any other time by appointment or otherwise.

StudentSupport


The School DayThe school day starts at 8.30 amwith the last formal lessons ending at3.00 pm, although the individual student’s finishing time is flexibleaccording to their timetables. Most students haveapproximately sevenhours “free” time available per week to spend either relaxing in theCommon Room or studying in the Library. Home study is permittedwhen a student has no lesson in any half-day session.

Entry RequirementsThere areno formal entry requirements, in termsof examination results,for entry to Olchfa Sixth Form Centre. There are guidelines foracceptance on to particular courses.

Entry on to a particular AS Level Subject CourseWhere the subject has been taken at GCSE wewould normally expectthe candidate to have achieved C grade or above, and an A or B wouldbe admirable. It depends on the subject and the student.

Guidelines on the number of A Levels takenFor September 2010 entry, universitieswhere competition for places isstrong, will be expecting students to have started four subjects, butequally there will be many degree courses where only three or twosubjects are required.

Wenormally expect sixGCSEgradesatCor above to take threeormoreAS Levels and five such passes to take two AS Levels in the first year.TheseASLevelsmay thenbe converted toALevels by following theA2courses in the Upper Sixth.

Applied AS courses normally require four GCSEs or more at grade Cor better.

Wewould stress that the guidelines listed above are just that andmaybe subject tonegotiation in individual cases, as is entry toGCSE, and theLevel 2 OCRNational Certificate courses.

At the end of any course, entry for the examination is paid for by theschool, provided that attendance and completion of assignments areboth satisfactory and punctual. We do not "select" examinationcandidates.

Entry ProceduresOffers of places in Olchfa Sixth Form will be made by June. Requestsreceived after this date can only be approved if Year 12 numbers arebelow the statutory limit of 300.

Interested students should return the Application Form enclosed withthis prospectus by the date indicated, shortly after our February OpenEvening, in order thatwemaydoour best to provide the combinationofsubjects requested:

Year 11 students inOlchfaTo Form Tutors by the end of February half term

Year 11 students in BishopstonIn the envelope provided by February half term

All other studentsPlease return the form directly toMrs B Ryan at the address below.

Should the formnotbeenclosedwith this prospectus, contactMrsRyanby telephone (01792534300)or post (Director Post-16Studies,OlchfaSchool, Gower Road, Sketty, Swansea SA2 7AB).

Once theApplication Form is received youwill be contacted to confirmyour choice of courses.

JoiningOlch

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JoiningOlchfaSixthForm

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ALevelResultsSummer2009

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olchfa sixth form

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