subjects : course descriptions · understanding and skills related to biology. studying two units:...

Subjects : Course Descriptions

Courses available at The Hemel Hempstead School

Fine Art Biology Chemistry Computing Dance Design & Technology: Product Design Economics English Language English Literature Geography Government and Politics History ICT Mathematics Further Mathematics Modern Foreign Languages: French Modern Foreign Languages: German Music Physical Education Physics Psychology Religious Studies: Ethics and Philosophy Sociology Drama and Theatre Studies Business (BTEC Level 3 Diploma) Sport (BTEC Level 3 Diploma) Certificate in Financial Studies Extended Project Qualification

Fine Art

Awarding Body / Specification No : OCR / H161/H561

Name of provider : The Hemel Hempstead School

Name of Partnership Area : West Dacorum

What will you be learning?

This course builds upon the skills, knowledge and understanding acquired at GCSE level. It enables students to develop their own ideas further, through the use of new skills and techniques and the study of a wide variety of Artists’ work, to develop their own personal style. Students will have the opportunity to use different media and explore new ways of working to expand their repertoire of skills and be able to understand the work of artists from different periods, through contextual studies and gallery visits.

Entry Requirements

GCSE Art Grade B

How is the course examined or assessed?

This course consists of two units for AS and two in A2. This involves producing both practical and written work during the course, with a timed practical examination at the end of each course. The work is internally assessed and externally moderated through an end of year exhibition.

What happens when you have finished?

The majority of students progress onto a one year Art Foundation course, which covers all aspects of Art and Design, leading on to degree level. Some students apply straight to degree level, particularly with Art, History, Design Studies or combined subjects such as English and Art.

More information

Miss L Rayner - Head of Art

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Biology

Awarding Body / Specification No : Edexcel / 8BNO/9BNO




This is a context-led course through which you will develop your knowledge, understanding and skills related to Biology. Studying two units: Unit 1 ‘Lifestyle, Transport, Genes and Health’. Unit 2 ‘Development, Plants and the Environment’. It has an emphasis on examining today’s contemporary issues to gain the underlying biological principles, e.g. looking at heart disease, its cause and consequences or the understanding of genetics through a case study on cystic fibrosis. A2 course builds on the AS knowledge, consisting of two more units.

Entry requirements

GCSE Science Grade BB, Maths Grade B


The AS course consists of two written exams taken in May/June. Students also carry out nine core practicals across the year.

The A2 course consists of three written exams taken in May/June which cover content from across the two years of study. Students will also be assessed on their practical skills through write ups of core practicals carried out across the course.


Successful completion of AS and A2 can lead to progression to higher education courses – Medicine, Life Sciences, Sports Science, Environmental Science or into Level 4 vocational qualifications or directly into employment in Science and related sectors.

More information

Mrs S Whalley - Head of Biology

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Chemistry

Awarding Body / Specification No : OCR / H032/H432




The course includes a wide variety of topics including: carton chemistry, atomic structure, green chemistry, bonding, modern analytical techniques, energy changes, rates of reaction, chemical synthesis and modern polymers. The course promotes analytical and problem solving skills, numeracy and gives a fascinating insight into the world that surrounds us.

Entry requirements

GCSE Science Grade BB, Maths Grade B

How is the course examined or assessed? AS consists of: two written papers

Assess any content from all modules 1-4

Paper 1: multiple choice and structured questions (50%) Paper 2: structured and extended response questions (50%)

A2 consists of: three written papers

Assess content from all AS and A2 modules

Paper 1: multiple choice and structured questions (37%) Paper 2: multiple choice and structured questions (37%) Paper 3: structured and extended response questions (26%) Non exam assessment: practical endorsement (pass/fail)


Chemistry A Level is essential for Medicine and Veterinary Science and is a required or recommended subject for many other degree courses such as Zoology, Forensic Science, Biomedical Sciences, Pharmacy, Materials Science and many others.

More information

Mrs S James - Head of Chemistry

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Name of course : Computing Name of provider : The Hemel Hempstead School Name of Partnership Area : West Dacorum

What will you be learning? You will gain a general grounding in computing, including an understanding of computer systems, the principles of programming and the solving of problems. You will learn about: Year 12: Computer Fundamentals (written examination) Programming Techniques and Logical Methods (written examination) Year 13: Advanced Computing Theory (written examination) Computing Project (coursework)

When? Start date : September 2015 Duration : 1 year AS; 2 year A2 How is it delivered? : As part of a full-time programme Availability: Current and continuing Time Slot : Daytime

Who can do it? Age: 16+ Entry requirements: See student guide

What will you be working towards? Qualification : AS/A2 Level Awarding Body : OCR Specification No.: H047/H447

How is the course examined or assessed? Year 12: One examined unit (50%)

One examined unit (50%) Year 13: One examined unit (60%) One externally moderated coursework unit (40%)

What happens when you have finished? Move on to further or higher education (BTEC/HND or degree course) in related subjects, or on to work-based training (NVQ) or other industry-related training.

More information Mrs L Head – Head of ICT

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Dance

Awarding Body / Specification No : AQA / 1231/2231




You will learn how to perform and interpret dance ideas through a variety of contemporary dance technique classes and workshops.

You will learn the devices and techniques to enable you to choreograph a solo dance from a variety of stimuli. You will learn and develop performance skills within the context of a duo/trio.

You will be taught how to engage in the critical analysis of dance and will have the opportunity to apply that knowledge to a variety of professional works.


Unit 1: Understanding Dance Written Paper 1 hour 30 minutes

Unit 2: Choreography and Performance, Solo Choreography and a Performance in a duo/trio.


You will be able to further your study in Dance at University by doing a combined BA (Hons) in Dance and another subject of your choice such as Maths, Music or English.

You will be able to specialise in Dance or opt for a Musical Theatre Course at a Stage School. Scholarships are awarded at a variety of centres.

You will be able to follow an administration career at a theatre or with professional dance companies.

More information

Miss S Sepala – Head of Dance

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Design and Technology: Product Design

Awarding Body / Specification No : Edexcel / 8GRO1/9GR01




Product Development knowledge and understanding of materials and components, working properties of materials, hand and commercial processes, product manufacture and design in practice.

Entry requirements

GCSE Product Design/Resistant Materials/Textiles or 3D Design, Grade C


6GR01 AS 60% coursework project 6GR02 40% written exam – 2 hours. Available in Summer

6GR03 A2 60% coursework project 6GR04 40% written exam – 2 hours. Available in Summer


Art Foundation Courses in Higher Education : Graphic Design Web Design Computer Graphics Information Product Design Animation (computer) Interior Design Illustration Graphic Communication Visual Communication

More information

Ms P Ozier – Head of Product Design

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Economics

Awarding Body / Specification No : Edexcel / 9ECO1




Economics is divided into three key areas: global economics, micro and macroeconomics.

Some of the topics you will be covering are:

Discuss if Adam Smith or Karl Marx was right? What determines market prices? Should we pay for the environmental impact of producing a good service? What policies should governments use to help their economies? What can be done about unemployment? Why do we pay so much for gas? How can we help developing countries? Why does America have so much income inequality? What caused the recession of 2008? Analyse the performance of the UK economy over the past ten years.

Entry requirements

GCSE Maths Grade B, English Language Grade B Please note this A Level requires an understanding of mathematical models and calculations as well as an ability to write essays. A keen interest in current affairs would help.


3 x 2 hour exams consisting of multiple-choice, short answers, data responses and essays.


Students will be able to study further in the business, accounting and management fields. Careers that have a strong economic component: Banking (World Bank, UK banks, the International Monetary Fund, United Nations Agencies). The UK Civil Service, The Department of Finance, Trade and Industry and External Affairs, business management/consulting in all fields. Financial consulting, stock-broking and the insurance industry.

More information

Ms U Latif – Teacher of Economics

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English Language

Awarding Body / Specification No : AQA 7702



What will you be learning? Among the many benefits, the study of English Language encourages students to :

Develop methods of exploring and understanding spoken and written language in use

Understand the roles of purposes, audiences and contexts and the impact of these pressures upon language production and reception

Use linguistic methods to analyse and investigate a variety of extracts taken from everyday sources

Areas of study include:

Textual Variations and Representations

Children’s Language Development

Language diversity and Change

Language Discourses

Writing skills

Entry requirements

GCSE English Language and Literature Grade B


Paper 1 Language, the Individual and Society: 2 hours 30 minutes, 100 marks. 40% of A-level. What’s assessed? Textual variations and representations/Children’s language development (0-11 years).

Paper 2: Language Diversity and Changes: 2 hours 30 minutes, 100 marks. 40% of A-level. What’s assessed? Language diversity and change/Language discourses/Writing skills.

Language Investigation: Investigation/Original Writing. Word count: 3,500. 100 marks 20% of A-level. Assessed by teachers moderated by AQA.

Tasks: A language investigation (2,000 words excluding data). A piece of original writing and commentary (1,500 words total).


This qualification is particularly suitable for those students who wish to study Journalism, English Language, Linguistics or English Studies in Higher Education.

More information

Mrs A Liptrot – English Key Stage 4 Co-ordinator

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English Literature

Awarding Body / Specification No : Likely to be AQA TBC




Among the many benefits, this course encourages students to:

Read widely and independently

Engage creatively with a substantial body of texts, exploring contexts and reading from different theoretical starting points

Develop literary analysis and evaluation leading to a deeper understanding of the various traditions of literature in English

Entry requirements

GCSE English Literature and Language Grade B

How is the course examined or assessed? Subject to change – if AQA then – Paper 1: ‘Love Through the Ages’, 3 hours, open book for Section C, study of three texts, including one poetry and one prose text, one of which must be pre 1900 and one Shakespeare play. The exam will include a passage from the Shakespeare play and two unseen poems. Paper 2: ‘Texts in Shared Contexts’, 2½ hours, open book, study of three texts including one poetry text, one drama text and one novel. One of the texts must be post-2000. 40% of A Level. The study could be of WW1 and its aftermath, or of Modern Times. Non-exam assessment: ‘Texts Across Time’, a comparative critical study of two texts by different authors, one of which must be written pre-1900. Totalling no more than 2,500 words. 20% of A Level.


Employers and university admissions tutors view English Literature as an extremely important and valuable subject and although many of our students do read English at university, a significant number of our mathematicians and scientists also choose to study the subject in order to offer greater breadth and diversity. Careers where English Literature is considered desirable include: Law, Journalism, Publishing, Human Resources and Teaching.

More information

Mr J Mitchell – Head of English

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Geography

Awarding Body / Specification No : AQA 1031/2031




The course provides students with the knowledge and skills to understand the dynamic nature of Geography: how places, environments, issues and people’s responses change over time.

Entry requirements

GCSE Geography Grade B


Unit 1 : Physical and Human Geography

Rivers, floods and management

Coastal environments

Global population change

Health Issues Unit 2 : Applied Geography

Basic, investigative, ICT, graphical, cartographical and statistical skills

Research skills and the assessment of AS fieldwork Unit 3 : Contemporary Geographical Issues

Plate tectonics and associated hazards

Weather and climate and associated hazards

World cities – evolution or revolution? Unit 4 : Geography Fieldwork Investigation


Geography provides a solid grounding for numerous degrees. It leads specifically into, for example, Geography, Town Planning, Oceanography, Meteorology, Geology, Geophysics and Geochemistry. Geography provides the skills and knowledge appropriate to a variety of careers including Travel, Tourism and Leisure, Environmental Management, Business and Finance, Management and Administration, Education, Professional and Social Services, Scientific Services and Information Services.

More information

Mr S Williams – Head of Humanities

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Government and Politics

Awarding Body / Specification No : Edexcel 8GP01/9GP01




There are two sections to the AS course :

Unit 1 : Party politics and ideas, Elections, pressure groups, democracy

Unit 2 : Parliament, Prime Minister and Cabinet, Judges and Civil Liberties, Constitutional Reform Who governs us? How do they get elected? On what basis do they make the decisions which affect our income, our opportunities and our daily lives? Studying Politics gives students an insight into the range of political belief central to an understanding of the modern world and the nature of democracy itself, both in the UK and the USA. The emphasis is on contemporary politics and current areas of constitutional and political concern. All students are expected to engage in contemporary political debates and discussion on current affairs. At AS Level the course is designed to help students understand how democracy functions in the UK and the different values and activities of political groups including both parties and pressure groups. Students look at how powerful Prime Ministers are and the role of Parliament, the constitution and the judiciary in monitoring and restricting that power. The A2 course addresses similar matters within the US political system, not only to give those considering politics at university a strong foundation, but also to reinforce the skills of analysis, evaluation and interpretation invaluable to success in any degree subject or job.

Entry requirements

GCSE English Language Grade C compulsory, History Grade C desirable


Two exam papers at AS and A2.


Useful for a whole range of Humanities and Social Science courses in Higher Education including Politics based courses.

More information

Mr C Farmery – Teacher of Government and Politics

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History

Awarding Body / Specification No : Edexcel 9H10



What will you be learning? Two modules will be studied the theme being: Democracies in change; Britain and the USA in the twentieth century. British History: Unit 1

Britain transformed, 1918-1997 Anerican History: Unit 2

The USA 1955-1992: conformity and challenge

Aims of the course:

To gain an understanding and knowledge of these periods of History

To consider the relevance and usefulness of historical sources

To promote an understanding of continuity and change in the past

To analyse the importance and significance of key events and people and how they have been represented.

Entry requirements

GCSE English Language Grade B. History GCSE is preferred but not essential.


Unit 1: External Examination one paper of 2¼ hours, two essay questions and one source-based question (30% of A Level/50% of AS Level). Unit 2: External Examination one paper of 1½ hours, one essay question and one source-based question (20% of A Level/50% of AS Level).


This leads to the Edexcel A2 History Course:

British History Unit 3: Rebellion and Disorder under the Tudors, 1485-1603

European History Unit 4: The Golden Age of Spain 1474-1598 (coursework)

More information Miss L Swales – Head of History

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ICT

Awarding Body / Specification No : WJEC 3026(AS)/2607(A2)




This course will introduce you to the fundamentals of ICT, providing the foundation from which to extend your knowledge of this growing area. You will study the following units:

Year 12 Information Systems (written examination) Presenting Information (coursework)

Year 13 Use and Impact of ICT (written examination) Relational Database Project (coursework)

Entry requirements

GCSE English Language Grade C, Maths Grade C, ICT Grade C


Year 12: One examined unit (60%) One externally moderated coursework unit (40%)

Year 13: One examined unit (60%) One externally moderated coursework unit (40%)


Move on to further or higher education (BTEC/HND/other degree) in related subjects, or on to work-based training or other industry-related training.

More information

Mrs L Head – Head of ICT

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Mathematics

Awarding Body / Specification No : Edexcel 8371/9371




Mathematics is split between three main areas of study: Core, Mechanics and Statistics. Core Mathematics extends your knowledge of such topics as algebra and trigonometry as well as introducing entirely new concepts such as calculus. If you enjoyed the challenge of problem solving at GCSE using such mathematical techniques, then you should find the prospect of this course very appealing. When you study Mechanics you will learn how to describe mathematically the motion of objects and how they respond to forces acting upon them. You will also learn the technique of mathematical modelling: that is, of turning a complicated physical problem into a simpler one that can be analysed and solved using mathematical methods. Many of the ideas you will meet in the course form an almost essential introduction to such important fields of study as Cybernetics, Robotics, Biomechanics and Sports Science, as well as the more traditional areas of Engineering and Physics. When you study Statistics you will learn how to analyse and summarise numerical data in order to arrive at conclusions about it. You will extend the range of probability problems that you started for GCSE by using mathematical techniques studied on the Pure Mathematics course. Many of the ideas you will meet in this course have applications in a wide range of other fields such as Economics, Geography, Environmental Studies and Biology.

Entry requirements

GCSE Maths Grade A


An AS level is examined in C1 (non-calculator), C2 and M1, that is Core Mathematics and Mechanics. All three exams are examined in June. All exams are one and a half hours long and are equally weighted.


As well as supporting other subjects such as Physics, Geography and Economics, the AS level will provide the foundation for further study at A Level. Once completed, an A Level in Mathematics is often required in other fields of study at university as well as Mathematics courses. Mathematics is required for studying Physics, Engineering, Economics and Finance, to name only a few.

More information

Miss K Konarzynska – Head of Mathematics

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Further Maths (AS)

Awarding Body / Specification No : OCR 3896/7896




You will study Decision 1, Further Pure 1 and Numerical Methods. Decision looks at topics such as networks, algorithms and critical path analysis. Further Pure 1 involves pure maths topics such as matrices and complex numbers while numerical methods involves solving equations.

Entry requirements

GCSE Maths Grade A/A*


FP1 and D1 are each assessed by a 1 hour 30 minute paper, while NM is assessed by a short piece of coursework (worth 10%) and a 1 hour 30 minute paper.


This course will broaden your knowledge of maths and will set you apart from other students when applying for maths or related courses at University.

More information

Miss K Konarzynska – Head of Mathematics

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French





You will develop your French language skills by reading, discussing and listening to material relating to issues from French speaking countries; the issues covered at AS are Media, Popular Culture, Healthy Living, Family and Relationships. You will be expected to participate actively in discussions, so an interest in the world around you is needed. You will find a large bilingual dictionary is very useful. You will have a lesson with the French Assistant for 30 minutes per week. This is in addition to your timetabled lessons.

Entry requirements

GCSE Grade B


At AS, there is a listening, reading and writing exam. In the listening section, you will be in control of your own sound file which you will be able to choose to pause. Speaking is assessed by an oral exam with your teacher. The oral exam consists of discussion of a stimulus card, followed by discussion of topics from the course.


You will find that an A Level language makes you more marketable if you are entering the jobs market. There are countless opportunities to combine French with other subjects at degree level, many offering a year or term in France. The UCAS website offers numerous Law and French, French and Business, French and Engineering and French and Psychology courses, to name only a few. In total over 1000 courses are available.

More information

Mrs C Wright - Head of French

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German





You will develop your German language skills by reading, discussing and listening to material relating to issues from German speaking countries; the issues covered at AS are Media, Popular Culture, Healthy Living, Family and Relationships. You will be expected to participate actively in discussions, so an interest in the world around you is needed. You will find a large bilingual dictionary is very useful. You will have a lesson with the German Assistant for 30 minutes per week. This is in addition to your timetabled lessons.

Entry requirements

GCSE German Grade B


At AS, there is a listening, reading and writing exam. In the listening section, you will have your own CD which you will be able to choose to pause. Speaking is assessed by an oral exam with your teacher. The oral exam consists of discussion of a stimulus card, followed by discussion of topics from the course.


You will find that an A level language makes you more marketable if you are entering the jobs market. Germany is still Britain’s most important European trading partner. There are countless opportunities to combine German with other subjects at degree level, many offering a year or term in Germany. The UCAS website offers numerous Law and German, German and Business, German and Engineering and German and Psychology courses, to name only a few. In total over 1000 courses are available.

More information

Miss D Benjamin - Head of Modern Foreign Languages

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Music

Awarding Body / Specification No : Edexcel 8MU01/9MU01




The course demands performing, composing, listening and analytical skills in almost equal measure. You will improve your skills in performing and composing in a range of styles. You will listen to a wide variety of music and develop a more informed appreciation of how and why it was written and/or performed. You will further develop your understanding of music theory through various analysis and harmony exercises.

Entry requirements

GCSE Music Grade B, sing or play an instrument


You will be required to perform a 5-6 minute solo which will be internally assessed and externally moderated (30%). You will compose one piece of original music in response to a brief; this will be externally marked (30%). There is a written paper which will involve aural and analytical responses to works you have studied and some unseen pieces. This will include a short theory exercise (40%).


Further education studying music at University or Music College, Music Journalism, careers in performing, composing, teaching music and a variety of jobs within the music industry.

More information

Mrs D Bailey – Head of Performing Arts

You will have a subsidised instrument lesson if you follow this course and will be expected to get actively involved in extra-curricular activities available in the department.

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Physical Education





This specification builds on the student’s experience from Key Stage 4 and GCSE to enhance their knowledge and increase their understanding of the factors that affect performance and participation in physical education.

The specification offers students the opportunity to experience and develop an interest in a variety of roles in sport such as performer, official and/or leader/coach at AS and then be able to specialise in one at A2.

Students will learn about the opportunities for and the effects of leading a healthy and active lifestyle, the various physiological and psychological factors that optimise performance and the evaluation of contemporary issues within sport.

Topic areas include anatomy and physiology, biomechanics, skill acquisition, training and fitness, nutrition, sport psychology, the history of sport, commercialisation,

equipment and technological advances and the use of performance enhancing drugs.

Entry requirements:

GCSE PE Grade B, Science Grade BB It is also strongly advised that students only choose A Level PE if they are a very able performer, leader or official in one or more sports. Students are expected to take part in regular physical activity and competitive sport, and are expected to have a high level of fitness.


Opportunities for and the effects of leading a healthy and active lifestyle 60% of AS, 30% of A Level - 2 hour written examination. Analysis and evaluation of physical activity as a performer and/or an adopted role/s 40% of AS, 20% of A Level – Internal assessment with external moderation Optimising performance and evaluating contemporary issues within sport 30% of A Level - 2 hour written examination.

Optimising practical performance in a competitive situation 20% of A Level – Internal assessment with external moderation.


This qualification looks to equip students with the skills and knowledge required for higher education or the world of work. Students will have the knowledge and understanding required to study sport at a higher level for employment in the sport and leisure industry. It also provides students with the opportunity to experience and develop an interest in a variety of roles in sport and an understanding of the importance of, and a passion for, sustained physical activity and exercise.

More information Mr J Heward - Head of PE

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Physics

Awarding Body / Specification No : OCR H158/H558




The course takes you from an understanding of basic mechanics, through to the fascinating areas of Waves, Nuclear Physics and the Universe. You will also study Further Physics, Gravitational and Magnetic fields and their applications. As well as gaining a valuable qualification, you will develop problem solving skills that will be transferable and desirable in all areas of higher education and employment.

Entry requirements

GCSE Science Grade BB or GCSE Physics Grade B and Maths Grade B

How is the course examined or assessed? Unit Assessment Weighting AS Mechanics 1 hour written exam AS – 30%, A Level – 15%

Electrons, Waves and Photons 1 hour 45 minute written exam AS – 50%, A Level – 25%

Practical Skills in Physics 1 Internal practical assessment AS – 20%, A Level – 10%

A2 The Newtonian World 1 hour written exam A Level – 15%

Fields, Particles and Frontiers of Physics 1 hour 45 minute written exam A Level – 25%

Practical Skills in Physics 2 Internal practical assessment A Level – 10% 20% of the AS and 10% of the A level is assessed by practical. The practical task is completed in lesson time and assessment is based on qualitative, quantitative and evaluative skills.


A Level Physics is an excellent qualification to have, showing that you are analytical and numerate. The study of Physics could lead directly to either employment or to degree level study in Science, Engineering or Medicine.

More information

Mrs K Gibbon – Head of Physics

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Psychology

Awarding Body / Specification No : Under consideration - (currently AQA)

Name of provider : The Hemel Hempstead School Name of Partnership Area : West Dacorum

What will you be learning? Why do I think like this? Why do I believe like this? Why do I feel like this? If you have ever asked yourself any of these questions, then you will be interested in Psychology, the scientific discipline that investigates human behaviour and experience. You will be encouraged to express your own views and develop your own opinions in the course. However, the main emphasis of the specification is on learning what psychologists have found out about human behaviour in their research and how they have interpreted their findings. You will also learn how to evaluate psychological research and consider how useful it is in helping us to understand human behaviour or helping to improve human welfare and experience.

Entry requirements GCSE English Language Grade B, Maths Grade B, Science Grade B

How is the course examined or assessed? There is no coursework requirement in Psychology, but knowledge of (the application of) Research Methods will be tested. Students will acquire knowledge of psychological studies and theory and learn to comment evaluatively on them. Assessment is through examination and will use short questions, extended answers and responses to stimulus material.

What happens when you have finished? An A Level in Psychology can help in any career. It is of direct relevance if you wish to become a psychologist, therapist or mental health worker. It is classed as a science subject as well as humanities/social sciences, so is considered relevant towards Medicine, Sports Science, Business Science or other subjects which require evidence of thinking scientifically. It is also seen as particularly relevant in all areas of business from marketing to human resource management. Psychology has broad appeal and progression for other degrees/professions such as Education, Politics, Theology and Literature to name but a few.

More information Mr B Saunders – Assistant Head Key Stage 5

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Religious Studies: Ethics and Philosophy

Awarding Body / Specification No : OCR H172/H572


What will you be learning? In both Year 12 and 13 students will study a mix of Ethics and Philosophy in varied topics and applied situations. These include: Philosophy of religion, religious ethics, environmental and business ethics, medical ethics, the role of conscience and Aristotle and Plato. The main body of teaching is done in a seminar style – as this helps to generate debates and classroom discussions.

Students will be expected to research topics and complete independent reading.

Entry requirements GCSE Religious Studies Grade C, English Language Grade C

How is the course examined or assessed? Exam based – two modules each year

What happens when you have finished? Religious Studies is useful in many careers. If you are planning on going into Medicine or Law then this is an ideal course for you as you will study ethics as part of those degrees. Religious Studies mixes well with the many other Level 3 courses; you will find there are plenty of transferable skills and even knowledge with other courses you may study.

More information Mrs F Bridgman – Teacher of Ethics and Philosophy

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Sociology



What will you be learning? You will be actively involved in exploring and asking questions about the society in which you live. You will examine the main social institutions and groups such as the family, schools and workplace. Other areas of interest include crime, politics, the media and poverty. You will develop skills in reasoning, logic, interpretation and evaluation as well as literacy and numeracy.

Entry requirements GCSE English Language Grade C

How is the course examined or assessed? AS – two written papers – one year course Externally examined at the end of the one year course – this does not count towards the A level. A level – three written papers – two year course Externally examined at the end of the two years

What happens when you have finished? Careers directly related to Sociology include social research and the formation of government policy. Other related areas include criminology, law, health-care, politics, the media, especially journalism and all aspects of the business world.

More information Mrs N Johnson – Teacher of Sociology

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Drama and Theatre Studies

Awarding Body / Specification No : AQA 1241(AS)/2241(A2)


What will you be learning? This course comprises four units over two years. Students will explore and analyse theatrical history and theory through practical performance, research and evaluation of live performance. An interest in theatre and performance is essential as is the ability to work independently on research and analysis. A GCSE (or BTEC) in Drama is desirable and a GCSE in English is essential.


How is the course examined or assessed? AS Unit 1: Live Theatre Seen and Prescribed Play (60% AS, 30% A2) Students will study a prescribed play through practical means using the theory of a least one theatrical practitioner. They will answer one question on the play in a 45 minute examination. Students will also learn to analyse the production values of live theatre performance and will answer one question on a production of their choice in a 45 minute examination. AS Unit 2: Presentation of an Extract from a Play (40% AS, 20% A2) Externally moderated. This is a practical unit. Students will work in groups to present an extract from a play in the style of a chosen theatrical practitioner. Students must also submit a record of the preparation, development and supporting research in the form of written coursework. AS Unit 3: Further Prescribed Plays including pre-20th Century Drama (30% A2). Students will study two further set plays through analytical and practical means. The unit is assessed in a written examination. A2 Unit 4: Presentation of Devised Drama (20%A2) Externally moderated. This is a practical unit in which students will work in groups to devise a piece of Drama influenced and inspired by work throughout the course. Students must also submit a record of the preparation, development and supporting research in the form of written coursework.

More information Mrs D Heale – Head of Drama

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BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Business

Awarding Body / Specification No : Edexcel


What will you be learning? The BTEC level 3 Diploma in Business is a 120-Credit qualification that consists of four mandatory units plus eight optional units out of 42 on offer. It is broadly equivalent to 2 GCE A Levels. The mandatory units are: Unit 1: The Business Environment Unit 2: Business Resources Unit 3: Introduction to Marketing Unit 4: Business Communication The remaining units allow for specialising if desired but we aim to give a breadth covering some areas of Accounting, Marketing, HR, Management, Administration and Retail. The course is a very practical, work-related one.

Entry requirements English Grade C / Maths Grade C

How is the course examined or assessed? There are no exams at the end of the course. Students will be assessed on completed projects and assignments. Each unit will be graded via assessment criteria as either pass, merit or distinction. The overall grade will be determined by the amalgamation of outcomes of all individual units.

What happens when you have finished? This BTEC qualification has been developed in the business sector to provide learners with the opportunity to enter employment in the business sector or to progress to further qualifications in higher or further education. It also provides learners with the opportunity to develop a range of skills and techniques as well as personal attributes for successful performance in working life.

More information Mr P Waller – Head of Business

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Certificate in Financial Studies

Awarding Body / Specification No : ifs University College


What will you be learning? This course has been designed to encourage individuals to be inspired to meet their lifetime aspirations. This will be achieved by teaching them to apply the appropriate solution(s) from the wide range available within the evolving financial services marketplace. The qualification will enable students to make informed and confident decisions regarding their finances. It will help students to become responsible borrowers, sensible savers and have an appreciation of the need for financial planning throughout their life.


What will you be working towards? Qualification: Level 3 Certificate (carrying up to 60 UCAS Points) Awarding Body: Institute of Financial Services

How is the course examined or assessed? The course consists of two units:

Unit 1 – Financial Capability for the Immediate and Short Term

Unit 2 – Financial Capability for the Medium and Long Term

Each unit is assessed in two parts:

Part A: Multiple choice e-test – 35 questions

Part B: Written paper – five essay responses to pre-release case study.

The pass mark for each part of each unit is 40%.

What happens when you have finished? This qualification should prove beneficial for any student looking to pursue a career in finance. It carries UCAS points, recognised by many universities but, most importantly, it provides essential life skills for students preparing to enter university or the workplace.

More information Mr J West – Teacher of Finance

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BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Sport

Awarding Body / Specification No : Edexcel BJ420


What will you be learning? The BTEC Level 3 Diploma is a practical, work related course. You learn by completing projects and assignments that are based on realistic work based situations, activities and demands. As well as learning about the employment area you have chosen, you develop the skills needed to start your career. The course is made up of 120 credits. A total of thirteen units as follows: Principles of Anatomy and Physiology in Sport Practical Individual Sports The Physiology of Fitness Sports Nutrition Assessing Risk in Sport Leadership in Sport Fitness Training and Programming Sports Injuries Sports Coaching Organising an Event Sports Development Work Experience in Sport Fitness Testing for Sport and Exercise

Entry requirements GCSE PE desirable

How is the course examined or assessed? There are NO EXAMS. All assessment is done through completing projects and assignments. Each module has assessment criteria of Pass, Merit and Distinction. At the end of the course your marks will be collated to give an overall grade.

What happens when you have finished? Students will be able to continue their studies at University, with many beginning a teaching degree or sports coaching degree. The BTEC Diploma is a nationally recognised award in the Leisure Industry and students will be well placed to begin a career in Sports Centre Management, Sports Development and Coaching or Fitness Training.

More information Mr T Colquhoun – Teacher of BTEC Sport

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Extended Project Qualification

Awarding Body / Specification No : AQA Name of provider : The Hemel Hempstead School

Name of Partnership Area : Open to Hemel Hempstead School students only


Our EPQ provides an opportunity for students to extend their abilities beyond A level syllabus and prepare for university or their future career. It can also be used to earn extra UCAS points. By taking responsibility for the choice and design of an individual project (or an individual role in a group project), students:

Become more critical, reflective and independent learners

Develop and apply decision-making and problem-solving skills

Increase their planning, research, analysis, synthesis, evaluation and presentation skills

Demonstrate creativity, initiative and enterprise.

When?

Start date: Any time from September up to the beginning of January Duration Up to 12 months for October submission of project in Year 13 How is it delivered? Projects are self-directed by students with supervisors against deadlines provided. Taught elements are delivered by Dr Brown. Availability: Current and continuing Time Slot: Daytime for taught element

Who can do it?

Age range: Any Year 12/13 student

What will you be working towards?

Qualification: The Extended Project is a Level 3 qualification


Learners develop an initial idea for a project and discuss their ideas with their supervisor. Learners initially carry out some research to enable them to develop their ideas sufficiently to make a formal project proposal that includes their project aims, initial plans and likely format in which to present their project. The supervisor evaluates the Project Proposal against the aims of the Extended Project. On completion the learners must give a presentation, which includes a live question and answer session overseen by the supervisor. Learners also complete a Production Log.


“The University welcomes applications from students who have taken the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). We see this as positive evidence of motivation to explore a subject in greater depth, as well as an opportunity for further development of analytical, critical thinking and independent research skills. If your results fall short of the offer level by a small margin, for example one A level grade, your Extended Project result will be taken into account by the academic admissions selector”. University of Essex.

More information

Dr G Brown – EPQ Co-ordinator

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subjects : course descriptions · understanding and skills related to biology. studying two units:...

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